Proximity Recognition via Dynamic Transmission Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices face difficulties in recognizing other devices located in close proximity for short-range communication, particularly when using Bluetooth or BLE, as they struggle to accurately determine the proximity based on received signals.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an electronic device with a communication unit, amplification unit, and controller that transmits and receives packets with adjusted transmission power to recognize proximity, incorporating information associated with communication in a shorter range than set for short-range communication, and controlling the amplification unit to transmit packets with corresponding power levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Bluetooth or BLE is used for short-range communication, then communication capability is provided, but the ability to recognize proximity accurately deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication range into multiple levels by using different transmission power levels. The controller transmits packets at different power levels (first power level and second power level) to create distinct communication zones, allowing the receiving device to determine proximity based on which power level is detected, thereby improving proximity recognition accuracy while maintaining communication capability.
2Speed
If transmission power is increased to extend communication range, then communication range is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic transmission power adjustment where the controller selectively transmits packets at different power levels based on the required communication scenario. Instead of using a fixed high power level, the system dynamically switches between first and second power levels, optimizing energy consumption while maintaining the ability to communicate across different range requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the transmission power parameter to achieve different communication ranges. By varying the transmission power level (first power level for extended range, second power level for shorter range), the system can adapt communication range to actual needs, reducing energy consumption when full range is not required.
3Reliability
If pairing operation is required for short-range communication, then communication security is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary proximity recognition by analyzing received signal characteristics (transmission power level detection) before initiating full pairing operations. This preliminary action allows the system to quickly determine if devices are in close proximity and can communicate, enabling conditional communication decisions without always requiring complex pairing procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device and a method for recognizing an electronic device are provided. The method includes transmitting a first packet including information associated with communication in a shorter range than a range that is set for short-range communication or receiving a second packet transmitted with low energy, determining a distance to the electronic device having transmitted the received second packet based on the information associated with the communication in the shorter range than the set range, when the information associated with the communication in the shorter range than the set range is included in the received second packet, and controlling a transmission power to transmit the first packet to be transmitted over the determined distance.