NFC Signal Classification for Adaptive Reader Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reliable communication between near field communication (NFC) enabled devices and NFC reader terminals is compromised by failed communication cycles, leading to delays and potential standard incompliance.
Innovation Solution
A communication device with a classifier and processing unit that classifies external devices based on signal characteristics and adjusts configuration settings, such as modem and decoder settings, to optimize communication reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed configuration settings are used for all communication devices, then device complexity is reduced, but communication reliability deteriorates due to failed interactions with different device types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic configuration settings that automatically adapt to different external communication device types. The system classifies the external device and adjusts modem, equalizer, and decoder settings in real-time during the communication protocol exchange, transforming static configurations into dynamic, adaptive settings that optimize reliability for each device type without requiring manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes multiple communication parameters simultaneously based on device classification. The processing unit modifies modem settings, equalizer initialization settings, and decoder settings according to the classified device type, enabling the system to optimize communication reliability by adjusting multiple parameters rather than using fixed configurations
2Reliability
If configuration settings are adjusted for each device type, then communication reliability improves, but processing time increases due to classification and reconfiguration steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs classification and configuration changes during the initial phases of communication protocol exchange. The system classifies the external device and adjusts settings within the period when preamble and synchronization code are received, or during the first command message exchange, preparing the optimal configuration before actual data transmission begins, thus minimizing impact on overall communication time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent accelerates the classification and reconfiguration process by executing it within the existing protocol timing windows. The processing unit changes configuration settings during the period when preamble and synchronization code are received, or during first command message exchange, effectively rushing through the adaptation process within already allocated time slots rather than adding separate processing phases
3Reliability
If device-specific optimizations are implemented, then communication reliability improves, but adaptability to new device types requires extensive reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the classification process into distinct signal characteristic analyses (RSSI, upper/lower side band ratios, subcarrier amplitude ratios). This segmentation allows the system to handle different device types through modular classification criteria, making it easier to add new device type support by introducing additional segmentation rules rather than requiring complete reconfiguration of the entire system
Data Source
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AI summary
In accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided, comprising: a receiver configured to receive one or more signals from an external communication device; a classifier configured to classify the external communication device using the signals received by the receiver and to output a corresponding classification result; and a processing unit configured to change one or more configuration settings of the communication device in dependence on the classification result. In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, a corresponding method of operating a communication device is conceived. In accordance with a third aspect of the present disclosure, a corresponding computer program is provided.