NFC Ring Structure With Metal Gap for Signal Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable devices using near field communication (NFC) are limited by metal enclosures that block RF signals, preventing effective data transfer and requiring additional items for payment and access control, making them intrusive and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A wearable ring design with a cut or broken section in the metal band to create an open circuit, allowing NFC signals to propagate freely, using a copper wire antenna and passive NFC chip powered by electromagnetic induction, eliminating the need for batteries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a metal enclosure is used for the wearable device, then the device structure is complete and protective, but the RF signals are blocked preventing effective data transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The metal ring band is divided into two separate sections that are not continuously connected, creating gaps that allow RF signals to pass through. This segmentation breaks the signal-blocking enclosure while maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of the ring.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful effect of signal blocking is eliminated by removing continuous metal sections from the ring structure. The antenna and NFC chip are extracted from a fully enclosed metal housing and placed in a partially open structure where signals can propagate freely.
2Ease of operation
If an active NFC device with battery is used, then continuous data transfer is enabled, but the device becomes more intrusive and requires additional power management
Solution Approach 1:
The passive NFC device receives power directly from the electromagnetic field generated by the reader device during data transfer. The antenna captures energy from the reader's field, eliminating the need for an internal battery or power management system while enabling contactless communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna serves dual functions: it acts as both the communication interface for NFC data transfer and the power reception mechanism for the passive device. This multi-functionality eliminates separate power management components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate items are carried for payment and access control, then each function can be optimized, but the user needs to carry more items
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions (payment, access control, data exchange) are merged into a single passive NFC ring device. The ring integrates the NFC chip and antenna in a unified structure that can perform various contactless operations without requiring separate cards, keys, or devices.
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 robust and efficient data transmission up to 5 cm without batteries, functioning as a payment system or key, integrated with jewelry for convenience and reduced carrying needs.
Implementation Method 1
The wearable device uses the power from the NFC chip, which communicates via magnetic induction providing a reading distance up to 5 cm. The NFC chip receives energy from the reader, for example from a POS terminal when making payment or from a mobile phone when writing data in the NFC chip using the mobile device.
Implementation Method 2
The wearable device uses the power from the NFC chip, which communicates via magnetic induction providing a reading distance up to 5 cm.
Data Source
AI summary
Wearable ring using near field communications (NFC) to store, receive, and transmit information. A ring can be made from silver or gold materials, the ring band having a first unfinished section with a recess for retaining an NFC chip and antenna and a cut or broken section creating a thin vertical line inside the ring from which a signal can escape. The antenna is a copper wire wrapped around the ring, in the recess of the unfinished band, before being covered with a second layer of metal having a non-metallic section covering the cut or broken section allowing the NFC signal to escape from the inner confines/recess of the ring. The antenna is turned around the ring and soldered to a near field communications (NFC) chip. The ring uses the power from the NFC chip, which communicates via magnetic induction providing a reading distance up to 5 cm.