Smart Ring Charger With Inductive Coupling and Guided Docking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smart rings face challenges such as needing to be removed for charging, poor fit, limited user interactivity, and restricted functionality.
Innovation Solution
A smart ring charging system integrates a charging source into objects that a user can hold, enabling wireless energy transfer via inductive coupling, with a controller to estimate charging rates and user interfaces for indicating charging status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If smart ring is integrated into wearable device, then user interactivity and functionality are improved, but device requires removal for charging which reduces convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based charging with wireless inductive charging. The charging source integrated into the object contains a transmitting coil that generates an alternating magnetic field, which induces current in the receiving coil of the smart ring, eliminating the need for physical connector insertion and device removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate charging source integrated into the object that mediates energy transfer between the power outlet and the smart ring. This charging source acts as a mediator that enables wireless power transfer through electromagnetic induction without requiring direct contact between the smart ring and power source.
2Ease of operation
If charging source is integrated into object, then charging convenience is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charging source integrated into the object serves multiple functions: it acts as both the charging device for the smart ring and maintains the original function of the object. The transmitting coil and control circuitry are integrated into the existing object structure, allowing the object to fulfill its primary purpose while also providing wireless charging capability.
3Ease of operation
If wireless inductive charging is used, then charging without removal is enabled, but energy transfer efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller in the charging source monitors the charging status and adjusts the power output accordingly. The system detects when the smart ring is properly positioned and begins charging, and can adjust the charging rate based on the battery level and charging needs, optimizing energy transfer efficiency.
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 convenient charging without removing the smart ring, enhancing user interaction and functionality by providing real-time charging status feedback.
Implementation Method 1
The charging may be initiated when the user holds the object with the charging source. The energy transfer between the charging source and the power source may be wireless and may use inductive coupling. To that end, the smart ring may include a receiving induction coil configured to generate a voltage in response to a change in magnetic flux through the coil, the magnetic flux associated with one or more transmitting coils electrically connected to the charging source.
Implementation Method 2
the smart ring may include a receiving induction coil configured to generate a voltage in response to a change in magnetic flux through the coil, the magnetic flux associated with one or more transmitting coils electrically connected to the charging source
Data Source
AI summary
A charging system can include a housing. The housing can include an inner surface. The housing also can include an internal power source. The housing further can include a component configured to draw energy from the internal power source. The charging system also can include a charging source. The charging source can include first and second features at different locations of the charging source. The first and the second features can guide a removable coupling of the inner surface of the housing with the charging source. The charging source can charge the internal power source when the inner surface of the housing is removably coupled with the charging source. Other embodiments are disclosed.