NFC Energy Transfer for Wireless Headset Charging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users are burdened with carrying multiple chargers for main and associated devices, leading to clutter and inconvenience, as existing technologies do not enable efficient energy transfer between devices.

Innovation Solution

Implementing short-range RF communication technology, specifically Near Field Communication (NFC), to enable energy transfer from a main device to an associated device, such as a Bluetooth-enabled cellular phone to a headset, allowing the associated device's charger to be eliminated.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate chargers are used for main device and associated device, then each device can be charged independently, but user burden increases and space clutter increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging reliabilityVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the charging function for both main device and associated device into a single charger unit. The charger simultaneously charges the main device through its primary charging port and the associated device through a secondary charging port, eliminating the need for users to carry multiple separate chargers while maintaining reliable charging for both devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The charger is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple purposes: it can charge the main device, charge the associated device, or charge both devices simultaneously. This universal charging solution replaces the need for device-specific chargers, reducing user burden and space requirements while maintaining charging reliability for all devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple chargers are carried for different devices, then each device can be charged, but the number of accessories increases and space is consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging capabilityVSAvoidnumber of chargers
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple charging functions into a single physical charger unit with multiple ports. This allows users to charge both the main device and associated device using one charger instead of carrying separate chargers for each device, thereby reducing the quantity of charging accessories needed while maintaining full charging capability for all devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If separate chargers are used for each device, then charging can be performed independently, but clutter in user space increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging flexibilityVSAvoidstorage space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple charging functions into a single charger unit that occupies minimal space. By integrating the ability to charge both main and associated devices into one unit, the patent reduces the total storage space required while maintaining charging flexibility through multiple ports and simultaneous charging capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables energy charging of associated devices without the need for separate chargers, reducing clutter and enhancing convenience by utilizing NFC for energy transfer between devices in close proximity.

Implementation Method 1

energy transfer via NFC is enabled between a Bluetooth enabled cellular phone and a Bluetooth headset

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNear Field Communication (NFC): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8463183B2Headset charge via short-range RF communication
Publication Date: 2013.06.11 NXP USA INC
  • US8463183B2 patent drawing
  • US8463183B2 patent drawing
  • US8463183B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present invention enable energy transfer via short-range RF communication between a main device and an associated device, thereby allowing the main device to energy charge the associated device. Accordingly, the need for a separate charger for the associated device can be eliminated. Embodiments of the present invention are suitable for applications in which the main device and the associated device operate in close proximity to each other. Further, embodiments of the present invention are suitable for applications in which the associated device is more energy-constrained than the main device. According to embodiments, energy transfer applications can be supported using near field communication (NFC). In an embodiment, energy transfer via NFC is enabled between a Bluetooth enabled cellular phone and a Bluetooth headset. In another embodiment, energy transfer via NFC is enabled between a Bluetooth enabled digital camera and a Bluetooth enabled digital frame.