Smart Ring Inductive Charging via Handheld Environmental Coils
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smart ring wearable devices face challenges such as the need for removal for charging, poor fit, limited user interactivity, and functionality, particularly in terms of powering the necessary components within the compact form factor.
Innovation Solution
A smart ring charging system is configured with a charging source integrated into objects that a user can hold, allowing wireless energy transfer via inductive coupling between the charging source and the power source of the smart ring, along with indicators to show the charging rate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless inductive charging is implemented, then charging convenience is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary inductive charging system consisting of transmitting coils in the environment and receiving coils in the smart ring. This mediator enables wireless energy transfer without direct physical contact or removal of the ring, resolving the contradiction by adding charging convenience through an intermediate charging infrastructure while managing complexity through standardized implementations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical charging system (physical removal and connection of charging cables) with an inductive wireless charging system. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical interactions such as plugging and unplugging chargers, improving ease of operation while the complexity is managed through the use of well-established inductive coupling technology.
2Productivity
If inductive charging is used, then charging speed is improved, but energy loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by utilizing resonant frequency matching between transmitting and receiving coils to optimize energy transfer efficiency. By tuning the operating parameters of the inductive charging system to resonate at specific frequencies, the patent achieves faster charging speeds while minimizing energy losses through improved coupling 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
This solution enables convenient charging of smart rings without removing them from the finger, improving user experience by providing a compact, efficient, and user-friendly charging method.
Implementation Method 1
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 smart ring includes a housing. The smart ring also can include a power source disposed within or at the housing. The power source can be configured to receive energy. The smart ring can further include a controller disposed within or at the housing. The power source also can be configured to power the controller. The controller can be configured to estimate a charging status for the power source. The controller also can be configured to generate information to indicate the charging status. Other embodiments are disclosed.