Wearable Antenna Beamforming for Extended Communication Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wearable technology is limited in its range of communication due to antenna performance and digital processing, restricting it to tethering with devices within a few meters, preventing effective connectivity with communication systems beyond this range.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiple wideband antennas and adaptive beamforming in wearable devices allows for direct communication with various communication systems, including satellite systems, by embedding antennas in the wrist strap and using differential inputs to steer signals towards communication systems and null interferers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If multiple wideband antennas and adaptive beamforming are implemented in wearable devices, then communication range is increased, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable device divides the antenna system into multiple wideband antennas (at least two) that can be independently controlled. Each antenna is adapted to operate across multiple frequency bands, allowing the system to segment the communication task across spatial and spectral domains, thereby extending communication range while managing complexity through modular antenna design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements adaptive beamforming that dynamically steers the antenna array pattern in real-time based on the location and characteristics of the communication system. The system adaptively excites each antenna with different phases and amplitudes to form beams that track moving targets and dynamically adjust to interference conditions, enabling extended range communication while maintaining manageable complexity through algorithmic control
2Reliability
If adaptive beamforming is used to steer signals towards communication systems, then signal reception quality is improved, but processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-calibration and automatic beam steering by monitoring signal quality and interference conditions. The adaptive beamforming algorithm automatically adjusts antenna excitation parameters without requiring external intervention or complex manual configuration, allowing the wearable device to self-optimize its communication performance while reducing the processing burden through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the excitation parameters (phase and amplitude) of each antenna dynamically based on the desired beam direction and signal conditions. By adjusting these parameters in real-time, the system improves signal reception quality through constructive interference and interference rejection, while managing processing requirements through efficient parameter optimization algorithms
3Adaptability or versatility
If wideband antennas are embedded in the wrist strap, then communication versatility is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wrist strap integrates multiple wideband antennas that can operate across various frequency bands (e.g., L-band, S-band, C-band) and support multiple communication modes (satellite, cellular, military). This universal antenna design allows a single wearable device to communicate with diverse communication systems without requiring separate specialized antennas, thereby improving versatility while managing manufacturing complexity through standardized multi-functional antenna structures
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 increases the communication range of wearable devices, enabling them to receive and transmit data, voice, and image data with a data rate of approximately 128 Kbps, effectively connecting with satellite and cellular systems without the need for tethering, and supports various communication systems like satellite, military, and cellular networks.
Implementation Method 1
receiving, by each of at least two antennas of the wearable device, at least one first signal from the communication system
Implementation Method 2
each of at least two antennas is adaptively excited to steer in a direction towards the communication system and/or steer in a direction to null at least one interferer
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatus for a wearable device to make a link with a communication system are disclosed. In one or more embodiments, a disclosed method for a wearable device to make a link with a communication system comprises transmitting, by the communication system, at least one first signal. The method further comprises receiving, by each of at least two antennas of the wearable device, at least one first signal from the communication system. In one or more embodiments, each of at least two antennas is adaptively excited to steer in a direction towards the communication system and/or steer in a direction to null at least one interferer. Also, the method involves transmitting, by each of at least two antennas of the wearable device, at least one second signal towards the communication system. Further, the method involves receiving, by the communication system, at least one second signal.