Wearable Interface Component With Conductive Thread EMI Shielding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Modern wearable computing devices require advanced interface components for efficient input/output communication, but existing solutions like USB and USB Type-C specifications have limitations in terms of versatility and functionality for mobile and on-the-go applications.

Innovation Solution

The development of a wearable interface component system that includes a female plug with a housing, printed circuit board, and conductive threads, capable of engaging a male plug, enabling bi-directional communication and processing, and can be integrated into various wearable devices such as smart blazers, wristbands, and earrings, operating in accordance with USB protocols and providing electromagnetic interference shielding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional USB or USB Type-C specifications are used for wearable devices, then basic connectivity is achieved, but versatility and functionality for mobile applications are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveversatilityVSAvoidfunctionality

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The interface component is designed to perform multiple functions including data communication, power transfer, and electromagnetic interference shielding through a single integrated structure. The housing contains both conductive threads for EMI shielding and contact pins for USB connectivity, allowing the component to serve as both a protective enclosure and an active communication interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines previously separate functions into a single interface component: the USB connector, EMI shielding structure, and housing are merged into one integrated assembly. This eliminates the need for separate EMI shielding materials and simplifies the overall device architecture while maintaining all necessary functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If interface components are integrated into wearable devices, then mobile functionality is enhanced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemobile functionalityVSAvoidinterface component structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The interface component is segmented into distinct functional zones within a single housing: contact pins for data/power connection, conductive threads for EMI shielding, and structural portions for mechanical support. This segmentation allows each function to be optimized independently while maintaining overall integration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The housing incorporates thin conductive thread structures that provide EMI shielding functionality without adding significant bulk or weight. These conductive threads are integrated into the housing walls, providing shielding protection while maintaining a sleek, wearable-friendly form factor.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Object-affected harmful factors

If conductive threads are used for EMI shielding, then electromagnetic interference protection is provided, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectromagnetic interference shieldingVSAvoidmanufacturing process

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The housing is constructed as a composite structure combining non-conductive structural material with embedded conductive threads. This composite approach provides both mechanical strength and EMI shielding properties in a single manufacturable component, eliminating the need for separate shielding material application steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The conductive threads serve dual purposes: providing EMI shielding protection and potentially serving as electrical connection pathways. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate shielding materials and simplifies the overall manufacturing process by consolidating functions into fewer components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 efficient and versatile I/O communication in wearable devices, enhancing their functionality and compatibility with various modules and systems, while providing electromagnetic interference shielding and flexible integration into diverse wearable forms.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of conducting threads woven into a construction of a textile, such as a cotton fiber, and allow for an electrical coupling with other components that may be embedded or part of a smart blazer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic interference shielding: Faraday Cage

Data Source

PatentUS10108227B2Techniques for providing an interface component for a wearable device

Publication Date: 2018.10.23 INTEL CORP

AI summary

Various embodiments are generally directed to an apparatus, method and other techniques to provide a interface component including a housing comprising a first shell portion and a second shell portion, the first shell portion forming an extended portion for the housing and comprising a retention track engageable a counterpart retention track. The interface component to include a printed circuit board disposed within the housing, the printed circuit board comprising a plurality of contact pins each comprising a contact hole and a retention bump and a socket to couple with a stud.