Smartcard Wireless Module Coupling via Inductive Frame

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Solution Overview

Problem

Smartcards with distinct electronic modules require reliable communication and power transfer without hardwired connections, which are challenging due to manufacturing difficulties and reliability issues with physical connections.

Innovation Solution

A wireless RF connection is established between two modules in a smartcard using a coupling frame with module openings and coupler coils, eliminating the need for hardwired connections and enabling power and data transfer between physically separated modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If hardwired connections are used between modules, then reliable communication and power transfer are achieved, but manufacturing difficulty and reliability issues increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical hardwired connections with an inductive coupling system using magnetic fields. The first inductive coupling element in the first module wirelessly transfers power and data to the second inductive coupling element in the second module through magnetic induction, eliminating the need for physical wire connections between modules and thereby reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining reliable communication.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary medium to transfer power and data between modules. The inductive coupling elements generate and interact with magnetic fields to establish wireless communication, serving as a mediator that replaces direct physical connections and simplifies the manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If wireless RF connection is used between modules, then manufacturing ease and reliability are improved, but power transfer efficiency may be reduced compared to hardwired connections

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanufacturing easeVSAvoidpower transfer efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes power transfer efficiency by adjusting parameters of the inductive coupling system, including the positioning and orientation of coupling elements, magnetic field strength, and resonance frequency matching. These parameter changes enable efficient wireless power transfer while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If modules are physically separated in smartcard, then functionality and adaptability are enhanced, but connection reliability and manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional adaptabilityVSAvoidalignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical alignment requirements with wireless inductive coupling. The magnetic field-based communication system does not require precise physical alignment between modules, allowing greater physical separation and flexibility in module placement within the smartcard while maintaining reliable communication.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the smartcard into physically separate modules that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. The wireless inductive coupling system enables these segmented modules to communicate reliably without requiring high-precision alignment, facilitating modular design and manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 allows for reliable communication and power transfer between modules in smartcards, enhancing their functionality and reliability by using a wireless RF connection within a coupling frame structure.

Implementation Method 1

A wireless RF connection is established between two modules in a smartcard using a coupling frame with module openings and coupler coils

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11954547B2Smartcard with a coupling frame and a wireless connection between modules

Publication Date: 2024.04.09 AMATECH GRP LTD

AI summary

A wireless connection is established between at least two electronic modules (M1, M2) disposed separate from one another in a smartcard having a coupling frame so that the two modules may communicate (signals, data) with each other. The two modules may each have module antennas (MA-1, MA-2), and may be disposed in respective two openings (MO-1, MO-2) of a coupling frame (CF). A coupling antenna (CPA) having two coupler coils (CC-1, CC-2) disposed close to the two modules antennas of the two modules. The coupling antenna may have only the two coupler coils (CC-1, CC-2), connected with one another, without the peripheral card antenna (CA) component of a conventional booster antenna (BA). Energy harvesting is disclosed.