Near-Field Interface for Low-Latency Multiplayer Input Pairing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In crowded multi-player gaming environments, existing far-field communication systems face high latency and interference due to packet collisions and complex pairing processes, especially when multiple devices operate on the same frequency band, leading to unpredictable and inconsistent gameplay experiences.
Innovation Solution
A near-field interface device that uses near-field electromagnetic induction, electric-induction, and magnetic-induction technologies to create a star network for communication between user-controlled devices and a computer, eliminating the need for additional wires and reducing interference by confining communication to a localized area, allowing for automatic pairing and low-latency input commands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If far-field communication systems are used in crowded gaming environments, then devices can communicate over long distances, but communication latency increases and interference from multiple devices operating on the same frequency band becomes severe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies near-field communication technology that confines electromagnetic signals to a localized range around the interface device. This creates a localized communication zone that excludes distant devices operating on the same frequency band, thereby eliminating interference while maintaining communication capability within the localized area. The communication range is intentionally limited to near-field distances to achieve this isolation effect.
2Speed
If far-field communication systems are used in crowded gaming environments, then devices can communicate over long distances, but communication latency becomes unpredictable due to multiple devices sharing the same frequency band
Solution Approach 1:
By restricting communication to a localized near-field range, the system ensures that only devices within this confined zone can communicate, eliminating competition for frequency bandwidth from distant devices. This localized approach guarantees predictable latency performance since signal transmission does not need to navigate through interfering signals from other devices operating on the same frequency band.
3Adaptability or versatility
If far-field communication systems are used, then devices can communicate over long distances, but pairing processes become complex when multiple devices are present
Solution Approach 1:
The near-field communication system automatically identifies and pairs only devices within its localized communication range. Since the range is confined to near-field distances, the system naturally isolates the pairing process to a specific physical proximity zone, eliminating the complexity of managing multiple distant devices. The interface device can confidently pair with users or devices physically present without needing to distinguish between multiple remote devices sharing the same frequency band.
4Reliability
If near-field communication is used to reduce interference and latency, then communication performance improves in multi-user environments, but the communication range is limited to near-field distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent intentionally accepts the limited near-field range as a trade-off for achieving superior communication reliability. The localized communication zone provides reliable signal transmission free from interference, and the system is designed to serve the specific use case of gaming interfaces where users are physically present within this near-field range. The limited range is acceptable because it ensures that only intended users within proximity can communicate, providing secure and reliable operation.
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 near-field interface device achieves lower latency and simplified pairing by utilizing non-propagating quasi-static fields, reducing interference and packet collisions, resulting in a more reliable and intuitive gaming experience with automatic frequency adjustment to manage overlapping communication bubbles.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing near-field electromagnetic induction and magnetic induction to create a communication star network
Implementation Method 2
utilizing near-field electromagnetic induction and magnetic induction to create a communication star network
Implementation Method 3
the conductive surface is configured to be coupled to the user by non-propagating quasi-static near-field electric-induction signals
Data Source
AI summary
One example discloses a near-field interface device, including: a near-field antenna; a physical port configured to be coupled to a computer; a controller coupled to the antenna and the physical port; wherein the controller is configured to translate a near-field signal received from the near-field antenna into an input command generated by a user; and wherein the controller is configured to transmit the input command to the computer through the physical port.