Portable Communication Device NFC Interface for Simplified Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Devices with simplified user input interfaces, such as a single button, are error-prone and inflexible, making it difficult to access multiple capabilities without complex button combinations, which is problematic for users with impairments or those needing specialized communication devices.
Innovation Solution
A portable communication device with a simplified user interface that includes a short-range wireless communication transceiver to detect and interact with external data storage devices, allowing it to initiate functions not accessible through the interface, such as pairing with health monitoring devices and sending data to remote servers, using NFC, RFID, or infrared transceivers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simplified user input interface with limited controls is used, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an external data storage device as an intermediary that stores configuration data and capability information. This external device mediates between the user's needs and the simplified interface by providing structured data that the processor can automatically interpret, enabling complex functions without requiring complex user input.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the processor to automatically read configuration data from the external storage device and autonomously determine and execute appropriate functions. The device serves itself by programmatically interpreting the stored data and initiating actions without human intervention beyond the initial data provision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple meanings are assigned to a single control, then device versatility is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to error-prone protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical button-pressing system with a data-based system. Instead of using elaborate mechanical protocols (multiple presses, timing sequences), the system uses structured data stored externally that the processor reads and interprets programmatically. This substitution eliminates the error-prone mechanical interaction while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses copies of configuration data stored in the external device to represent multiple functions and capabilities. Rather than requiring the user to manually select or sequence controls, the configuration data serves as a template that the processor follows to automatically execute the appropriate function, reducing errors while maintaining versatility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If elaborate button protocols are used to access multiple capabilities, then device versatility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing all configuration data, capability information, and function parameters in the external data storage device before use. This preparation eliminates the need for users to perform complex sequences of actions during operation, as the system has already been configured with all necessary information and can automatically execute functions based on the stored data.
4Ease of operation
If a simplified interface with fewer than 10 controls is used, then ease of operation is improved, but the ability to enter arbitrary telephone numbers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making the external data storage device a multi-functional interface. The stored configuration data can represent not only telephone numbers but also other communication parameters, device settings, and function configurations. This single external device serves multiple purposes, replacing the need for numerous physical controls while maintaining the ability to input various types of information.
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 users to access advanced functions automatically, like pairing with health monitoring devices and sending health parameters without user interaction, enhancing usability and accessibility for individuals with impairments.
Implementation Method 1
The portable communication device emits a radio frequency field via the short-range wireless communication transceiver, to excite the external data storage device
Data Source
AI summary
A portable communication device includes a processor, a memory holding data and instructions, a simplified user input interface for manually initiating functions of the portable communication device, a mobile telephone transceiver, and a short-range wireless communication transceiver. The devices uses the short-range transceiver to retrieve information from an external data storage device such as an NFC tag, and based on the received data, initiate a function of the portable communication device. Functions that may be initiated include pairing with another device, downloading and installing application software, and receiving and forwarding data from a health monitoring device.