Optical Energy Source for Wireless Device Powering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication technologies face challenges in efficiently powering passive objects over short ranges, particularly in scenarios where traditional radio frequency signals are inadequate or inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using a mobile device with an optical energy source, such as a camera flash, to transmit optical power to passive objects via Near Field Communication (NFC) or ultra-wide band connections, supplementing the energy provided by radio frequency signals and adjusting power levels based on the objects' requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If radio frequency signals are used to power passive objects, then wireless communication is achieved, but the power transmission efficiency is inadequate for passive objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines radio frequency signals with optical signals (such as visible light) to transmit power to passive objects. The optical energy source (e.g., LED) is activated to provide additional power transmission capability, merging electromagnetic radiation in different frequency bands to overcome the limitations of RF-only powering.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the optical power transmission parameters based on the passive object's power requirements. The optical energy source can be switched on/off or adjusted in intensity to match the power needs of the passive device, optimizing energy transfer efficiency while ensuring reliable powering.
2Reliability
If optical energy source is added to supplement power, then powering capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical energy source (such as an LED) serves dual functions: it can transmit optical power to passive objects and also act as a communication channel for data exchange. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while improving powering capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical signal serves as an intermediary that carries both power and communication functions. By using the same optical component for both power transmission and data communication, the system avoids adding separate complex subsystems, thus improving powering capability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Reliability
If optical power is transmitted to passive objects, then operational capabilities are enhanced, but energy consumption of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical energy source is dynamically controlled based on the power requirements of the passive object. The system can switch the optical source on or off, or adjust its intensity, to match the actual power needs of the passive device, thereby enhancing operational capabilities while minimizing unnecessary energy consumption from the apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the passive object (through RF communication) to determine its power requirements. Based on this feedback, the apparatus adjusts its optical power transmission level, ensuring that energy is consumed only when and to the extent needed by the passive object, thus enhancing operational capabilities while controlling energy consumption.
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
This approach enables efficient and flexible wireless powering of passive objects, enhancing their operational capabilities by providing additional optical power, which can be used for data processing and storage, thereby improving their performance and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting, by the apparatus, from the optical energy source, optical power to the wireless device
Implementation Method 2
receiving, via a radio frequency wireless interface of an apparatus, a radio frequency signal from a wireless device
Data Source
AI summary
Example method, apparatus, and computer program product embodiments are disclosed for negotiation of wireless powering of passive objects. Example embodiments of the invention include a method comprising: receiving, via a radio frequency wireless interface of an apparatus, a radio frequency signal from a wireless device, indicating that the wireless device is capable of receiving optical powering; switching on, by the apparatus, an optical energy source in the apparatus; and transmitting, by the apparatus, from the optical energy source, optical power to the wireless device in response to the radio frequency signal.