Optical Waveguide for High Throughput Wireless Data Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication technologies, such as cellular networks and short-range communication methods, face limitations in providing high data throughput, especially for applications requiring rapid and efficient data transfer between devices like mobile radio devices and accessories, due to constraints in bandwidth and connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A high data throughput optical communication link is established using a slab-shaped optical waveguide with a reflector array and a conical surface, allowing for bidirectional data transfer between devices, enabled by near-field communication (NFC) triggering signals and wireless power circuits, which position and power the optical waveguide for efficient data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If wireless communication technologies (cellular networks, Bluetooth, WLAN) are used for data transfer, then communication coverage and device connectivity are improved, but data throughput is limited due to bandwidth constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional electrical/wireless signal transmission with optical signal transmission through an optical waveguide. This substitution enables significantly higher data throughput (up to 20 Gbps) by utilizing optical frequencies which offer much larger bandwidth compared to radio frequency wireless communication technologies.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental transmission medium parameter from electrical signals in wireless space to optical signals in a physical waveguide. This parameter change transitions the system from RF bandwidth limitations to optical bandwidth capabilities, achieving orders of magnitude improvement in data throughput.
2Ease of operation
If physical connectors are eliminated for wireless connection, then ease of operation is improved, but positioning accuracy and connection reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical waveguide as an intermediary component that physically bridges two devices without requiring traditional electrical connectors. The waveguide maintains precise optical alignment while allowing easy attachment and detachment, thus achieving both connectorless operation and positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from point-to-point electrical contact (0D/1D connection) to a waveguide-based optical path that operates in multiple spatial dimensions. This dimensional change allows for more flexible positioning while maintaining optical signal integrity through the waveguide structure.
3Productivity
If optical waveguide is positioned close to receiver for high frequency data transfer, then data throughput is improved, but ambient light interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a controlled optical environment within the waveguide structure. The waveguide confines and guides the optical signal along a specific path, providing localized protection from ambient light interference while maintaining close proximity for high-frequency data transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the potential harm of ambient light interference into a benefit by using the waveguide structure to filter and select only the desired optical signals. The waveguide's physical and optical properties naturally reject unwanted ambient light while transmitting the intended high-frequency data signals.
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 solution provides a high data throughput optical communication link capable of transferring data at rates of up to 20 Gbps, minimizing the need for physical connectors and ensuring accurate positioning between devices while preventing ambient light interference.
Implementation Method 1
an optical waveguide having a light receiving portion and a light transmitting portion juxtaposed with the high frequency optical receiver, configured to transfer optical signals modulated with high frequency data incident on the light receiving portion, from the light receiving portion to the light transmitting portion
Implementation Method 2
a wireless power circuit configured to exchange wireless power with the other apparatus, to convert between electrical signals modulated with high frequency data and the optical signals modulated with high frequency data received by the optical waveguide
Data Source
AI summary
Example method, apparatus, and system embodiments are disclosed to provide a high data throughput optical communication link. An example embodiment comprises: a high frequency optical receiver configured to receive signals modulated with high frequency data; an optical waveguide having a receiving portion and a transmitting portion juxtaposed with the receiver, configured to transfer signals incident on the receiving portion, to the transmitting portion, and to transmit the signals to the receiver; a guide portion configured to releasably engage another apparatus, for positioning the waveguide with respect to the other apparatus, to receive at the receiving portion of the waveguide, signals from the other apparatus, for delivery to the receiver; and a wireless power circuit configured to exchange wireless power with the other apparatus, to convert between electrical signals modulated with high frequency data and the optical signals modulated with high frequency data received by the waveguide.