Multi-mode near-field device for interference management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless devices, particularly gaming devices, face challenges in quickly pairing and communicating in noisy environments with multiple users, as RF technologies introduce interference and blocking issues due to their large communication range and sensitivity to electronic noise.
Innovation Solution
A multi-mode near-field device utilizing both near-field electric induction (NFEI) and near-field electromagnetic induction (NFEMI) communication, with a switch-controlled conductive antenna surface that adjusts coupling modes between galvanic and capacitive coupling to manage signal strength and interference, enabling efficient pairing and communication in close proximity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If RF technology is used for wireless communication, then communication range is extended, but interference and blocking issues increase due to sensitivity to electronic noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental communication parameter from RF (radio frequency) to NFC (near field communication), operating at a different frequency range and using magnetic field coupling instead of electromagnetic radiation. This parameter change allows communication in a noisy environment by avoiding the interference and blocking issues that plague RF technologies, while still providing adequate communication range for the intended application.
2Reliability
If galvanic coupling is used between the second region and conductive host surface, then received signal strength increases, but interference and noise broadcast increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a switchable coupling mechanism that allows dynamic transition between galvanic coupling (for high signal strength when needed) and capacitive coupling (for reduced interference). This dynamic adaptability enables the system to optimize its operation based on environmental conditions, achieving high reliability when necessary while minimizing harmful interference in other scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical coupling parameter between the antenna and host surface, allowing switching between two distinct coupling modes. By changing from galvanic to capacitive coupling, the system can reduce the broadcast of interference and noise while maintaining adequate signal strength for communication.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If capacitive coupling is used between the second region and conductive host surface, then interference and noise broadcast decrease, but received signal strength decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The switchable coupling mechanism allows the system to dynamically select between capacitive and galvanic coupling based on operational requirements. When high signal strength is needed, the system switches to galvanic coupling; when interference reduction is prioritized, it uses capacitive coupling. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to achieve either goal as needed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The multi-mode near-field device effectively increases signal strength for robust communication when needed and decreases signal strength for privacy, enhancing pairing and communication efficiency in noisy environments while minimizing interference and noise broadcast.
Implementation Method 1
the first region is configured to be capacitively coupled to the conductive host surface
Implementation Method 2
the second region is configured to be galvanically or capacitively coupled to the conductive host surface
Implementation Method 3
A multi-mode near-field device utilizing both near-field electric induction (NFEI) and near-field electromagnetic induction (NFEMI) communication
Data Source
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AI summary
One example discloses a multi-mode near-field device configured to be coupled to a conductive host surface, including: a conductive antenna surface configured as a near-field electrically inductive (NFEI) antenna; wherein the conductive antenna surface includes a first region and a second region; wherein the first region is configured to be capacitively coupled to the conductive host surface; wherein the second region is configured to be galvanically or capacitively coupled to the conductive host surface; wherein the multi-mode device is configured to operate in, a first mode when the second region is galvanically coupled to the conductive host surface; and a second mode when the second region is capacitively coupled to the conductive host surface.