Smart Hub Antenna Array Wireless Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
IoT systems face operational disruptions and increased costs due to battery depletion in IoT sensors, requiring frequent replacement and manual intervention, which also leads to environmental waste.
Innovation Solution
A smart hub with an antenna array that scans for sensors and transmits wireless power transfer signals to charge depleted sensors, using RFID-like communication to identify and charge them, preventing interference, and forming hub groups for efficient data sharing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If IoT sensors use batteries for power supply, then the sensors can operate independently, but the batteries will eventually deplete requiring manual replacement which increases cost and manpower requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements wireless power transfer technology that enables sensors to automatically recharge themselves without human intervention. The system uses scanning signals to detect sensors with depleted batteries and automatically transmits power to recharge them, eliminating the need for manual battery replacement and reducing both time loss and labor costs.
2Reliability
If IoT sensors use batteries, then the sensors can function autonomously, but depleted batteries lead to system operational disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous scanning and automatic power transfer mechanisms that ensure sensors remain operational without interruption. The system continuously scans for sensors with depleted batteries and automatically provides power transfer to maintain continuous operation, eliminating gaps in sensor functionality and ensuring uninterrupted system operation.
3Reliability
If manual battery replacement is required, then depleted batteries can be replaced, but this increases cost and creates environmental waste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a power transfer system that recovers and transfers power to sensors instead of discarding depleted batteries. The system detects sensors with low battery levels and automatically transfers power from a central hub or nearby sensors, extending battery life and reducing the frequency of battery replacement, thereby minimizing waste and environmental impact.
4Extent of automation
If wireless power transfer is implemented, then sensors can be recharged automatically, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional antenna system that serves multiple purposes: scanning for sensors, communicating with sensors, and transferring power to sensors. By using a single antenna array for all these functions rather than separate systems, the patent reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high automation levels for sensor charging.
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 swift sensor activation, reduces manpower and cost demands, ensures continuous IoT system operation, and minimizes environmental impact by eliminating the need for battery replacement.
Implementation Method 1
The antenna array transmits a scanning signal to search for a sensor within an effective scanning range. When the antenna array receives the reflected signal of the scanning signal
Implementation Method 2
the control circuit controls the antenna array to keep transmitting a wireless power transfer signal... so as to charge the sensor
Implementation Method 3
receives a device information generated by the sensor via backscattering within the predetermined time interval
Data Source
AI summary
A smart hub is provided, which includes a control circuit and an antenna array (the functions thereof include transmitting/receiving scanning signals and transmitting wireless power transfer signals). The antenna array is connected to the control circuit and transmits a scanning signal to scan within an effective scanning range thereof. When the antenna array receives the reflected signal of the scanning signal, the control circuit controls the antenna array to keep transmitting a wireless power transfer signal, within a predetermined time interval, in the direction of receiving the reflected signal, and simultaneously receives the device information from a sensor which may exist via the antenna array within the predetermined time interval. The device information is generated by the sensor by backscattering.