CA2678298A1 - Method and apparatus for identifying an electrical device - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for identifying an electrical device Download PDFInfo
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- CA2678298A1 CA2678298A1 CA2678298A CA2678298A CA2678298A1 CA 2678298 A1 CA2678298 A1 CA 2678298A1 CA 2678298 A CA2678298 A CA 2678298A CA 2678298 A CA2678298 A CA 2678298A CA 2678298 A1 CA2678298 A1 CA 2678298A1
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- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01V—GEOPHYSICS; GRAVITATIONAL MEASUREMENTS; DETECTING MASSES OR OBJECTS; TAGS
- G01V15/00—Tags attached to, or associated with, an object, in order to enable detection of the object
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B5/00—Near-field transmission systems, e.g. inductive or capacitive transmission systems
- H04B5/20—Near-field transmission systems, e.g. inductive or capacitive transmission systems characterised by the transmission technique; characterised by the transmission medium
- H04B5/24—Inductive coupling
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Abstract
There is disclosed a method and apparatus for identifying an electrical device. The method comprises the steps of 1) providing an identification code to a controller, 2) operatively connecting the controller to an electrical load, 3) using the controller to create a sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses in accordance with the identification code, 4) detecting said sequence of timed pulses by means of a passive probe, and 5) translating the sequence of timed pulses into the identification code to identify the device. The sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses comprises an initial pulse followed by one or more pulse groups. Each pulse group consists of a time delay followed by at least one subsequent pulse. The apparatus comprises a circuit with at least an electrical load, an electromagnetic field generator, a current varying means, and a power source operatively connected together in series. The apparatus also comprises an identification code for identifying the device and a controller for controlling the current varying means in accordance with the identification code. The controller controls the current varying means to cause the electromagnetic field generator to emit a sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses sized and shaped to be detected by a passive probe.
Description
Title: METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IDENTIFYING AN
ELECTRICAL DEVICE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to the field of electronics, and more particularly to the field of electronic or electro-mechanical devices. Most particularly this invention relates to identifying such devices through the use of individual identification and/or lot tracking information.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Tracking and identifying devices is an important issue in modern commerce, especially with respect to manufactured goods. Identification of goods means that the source of the goods can be verified, and if the device can be identified, its distribution and location can be tracked for inventory, sales, product liability or many other purposes. For example, a unique identification number can be used to ensure that the device originates from the legitimate manufacturer and therefore is not a counterfeit or knock off.
A number of identification or tracking systems have been developed and are well known. One such tracking device is the use of bar code labels that are read optically with a scanner. This system is used extensively in retail establishments and among other things simplifies pricing goods at checkout and inventory tracking. While this technology is very useful and cost effective, it relies on a printed label being affixed to the outside of the product and requires an optical scanner to read the bar code. Often the bar code label is applied in the supermarket of the like, or it might be incorporated into the printing of the label on the product. Such bar code labels are highly visible and can be removed or damaged and thus the tracking can be rendered inoperative.
Another known tracking and identification technology is through the use of RFID tags, which may also be attached to the outside of the object being tracked. RFID tags are also very useful, but may have some disadvantages, such as, that some versions of the RFID tags can be remotely scanned and tracked, which may be considered an invasion of privacy. Also, RFID tags, like bar code labels, are separate items that are attached to the object and thus can be removed, whether intentionally or unintentionally, rendering any further tracking impossible. In other words, once the RFID tag is removed, it may be difficult to say, for example, if the product is a real or genuine product, or a knock off. Preventing the proliferation of knock-off and counterfeit products is a critical concern for trademark owners and product developers.
As can now be appreciated each of these known tracking systems require the addition to a device to be tracked of a separate label or tag which forms the basis of the identification. This makes such tracking systems universally applicable to any type of good or object that has a place onto which the tag or label may be affixed, regardless of the character of the object, but also requires the addition to the object of the tag or label.
Another way of tracking items relies on electromagnetic radiation.
For example, in US patent 4,333,072 to Beigel, a close coupled identification system is disclosed for identifying an animal object or other thing. A probe is provided including a circuit connected to a source of alternating current, and a separate miniature circuit is adapted to be implanted or attached to the animal object or thing. The probe circuit, when held close to the implanted circuit, inductively couples the circuits so that a load applied to the implanted circuit has an affect on the current in the probe circuit. A programmable load is included in the implant circuit along with a means for connecting and disconnecting the load, in response to the alternating current cycles in the probe circuit according to a predetermined code program. A signal is derived from the probe circuit corresponding to the coded program in the implant circuit and the signal is decoded and displayed as a number or other representation to indicate the identity of the object.
While interesting, this device has a probe which relies on electromagnetic radiation powered by an alternating current. Further, the device requires a separate implant circuit, which is like a label of the other methods and is to be affixed to the object or implanted into an animal.
The coding is achieved by alternately loading and unloading the receiver coil in the implant circuit, and the implant circuit is designed to load and couple to the probe's electromagnetic field. To minimize the size of the implant circuit, the patent teaches there is no battery or other power source on the implant circuit. Further, while some objects can have tags implanted or affixed to them, other objects are not amenable to a separate element being added as required by all of the foregoing prior art technologies.
What is desired is a method and an apparatus for identifying objects that do not require, or cannot accommodate, the addition of a physically separate label or tag to the object to be identified, and which therefore eliminate the cost associated with the physically separate tag from the tracking system. Most preferably the identification system would also not be visible and thus would be much more difficult to tamper with, remove, or obscure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a method and an apparatus for providing an identification system that does not require physically affixing a separate label or tag, to either the exterior, or the interior, of any other part of the object to be tracked. The present invention is directed to an identification system that is limited to use on a certain type of device, namely a device having an electrical load and a controller for controlling power to the electrical load. The present invention is preferred to be capable of assigning to each object a separate and unique identifying code, which can be translated into a self generated electromagnetic pulse sequence within the object, and then detected by means of a close proximity probe. In this way the present invention provides identification for an object through a means that is not visible and requires no physically separate tag or label to be affixed to the object. Thus, an advantage of the present invention is the elimination of the individual unit cost of such physically separate tags or labels. Most preferable the present invention relies on a controller to selectively connect an electrical load to a source of power to generate a digital electromagnetic signal, which can be detected by a passive probe positioned within the electromagnetic field, in proximity to the object. The controller can be a CPU, micro-controller, , micro-processor, Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), digital logic controller, or the like. The present invention provides an identification system which is not visible to the naked eye and thus is much less prone to be obliterated or destroyed or added to illegally manufactured goods.
Furthermore, the absence of the identification code will be a clear indication that the object is not a legitimate good.
Therefore, according to one aspect, the present invention provides a method of identifying an electrical device, comprising the steps of:
providing an identification code to a controller;
operatively connecting said controller to an electrical load;
using said controller to create a sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses in accordance with said identification code;
said sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses comprising an initial pulse followed by one or more pulse groups, each pulse group consisting of a time delay followed by at least one subsequent pulse;
detecting said sequence of timed pulses by means of a passive probe; and translating said sequence of timed pulses into said identification code to identify said device.
ELECTRICAL DEVICE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to the field of electronics, and more particularly to the field of electronic or electro-mechanical devices. Most particularly this invention relates to identifying such devices through the use of individual identification and/or lot tracking information.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Tracking and identifying devices is an important issue in modern commerce, especially with respect to manufactured goods. Identification of goods means that the source of the goods can be verified, and if the device can be identified, its distribution and location can be tracked for inventory, sales, product liability or many other purposes. For example, a unique identification number can be used to ensure that the device originates from the legitimate manufacturer and therefore is not a counterfeit or knock off.
A number of identification or tracking systems have been developed and are well known. One such tracking device is the use of bar code labels that are read optically with a scanner. This system is used extensively in retail establishments and among other things simplifies pricing goods at checkout and inventory tracking. While this technology is very useful and cost effective, it relies on a printed label being affixed to the outside of the product and requires an optical scanner to read the bar code. Often the bar code label is applied in the supermarket of the like, or it might be incorporated into the printing of the label on the product. Such bar code labels are highly visible and can be removed or damaged and thus the tracking can be rendered inoperative.
Another known tracking and identification technology is through the use of RFID tags, which may also be attached to the outside of the object being tracked. RFID tags are also very useful, but may have some disadvantages, such as, that some versions of the RFID tags can be remotely scanned and tracked, which may be considered an invasion of privacy. Also, RFID tags, like bar code labels, are separate items that are attached to the object and thus can be removed, whether intentionally or unintentionally, rendering any further tracking impossible. In other words, once the RFID tag is removed, it may be difficult to say, for example, if the product is a real or genuine product, or a knock off. Preventing the proliferation of knock-off and counterfeit products is a critical concern for trademark owners and product developers.
As can now be appreciated each of these known tracking systems require the addition to a device to be tracked of a separate label or tag which forms the basis of the identification. This makes such tracking systems universally applicable to any type of good or object that has a place onto which the tag or label may be affixed, regardless of the character of the object, but also requires the addition to the object of the tag or label.
Another way of tracking items relies on electromagnetic radiation.
For example, in US patent 4,333,072 to Beigel, a close coupled identification system is disclosed for identifying an animal object or other thing. A probe is provided including a circuit connected to a source of alternating current, and a separate miniature circuit is adapted to be implanted or attached to the animal object or thing. The probe circuit, when held close to the implanted circuit, inductively couples the circuits so that a load applied to the implanted circuit has an affect on the current in the probe circuit. A programmable load is included in the implant circuit along with a means for connecting and disconnecting the load, in response to the alternating current cycles in the probe circuit according to a predetermined code program. A signal is derived from the probe circuit corresponding to the coded program in the implant circuit and the signal is decoded and displayed as a number or other representation to indicate the identity of the object.
While interesting, this device has a probe which relies on electromagnetic radiation powered by an alternating current. Further, the device requires a separate implant circuit, which is like a label of the other methods and is to be affixed to the object or implanted into an animal.
The coding is achieved by alternately loading and unloading the receiver coil in the implant circuit, and the implant circuit is designed to load and couple to the probe's electromagnetic field. To minimize the size of the implant circuit, the patent teaches there is no battery or other power source on the implant circuit. Further, while some objects can have tags implanted or affixed to them, other objects are not amenable to a separate element being added as required by all of the foregoing prior art technologies.
What is desired is a method and an apparatus for identifying objects that do not require, or cannot accommodate, the addition of a physically separate label or tag to the object to be identified, and which therefore eliminate the cost associated with the physically separate tag from the tracking system. Most preferably the identification system would also not be visible and thus would be much more difficult to tamper with, remove, or obscure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a method and an apparatus for providing an identification system that does not require physically affixing a separate label or tag, to either the exterior, or the interior, of any other part of the object to be tracked. The present invention is directed to an identification system that is limited to use on a certain type of device, namely a device having an electrical load and a controller for controlling power to the electrical load. The present invention is preferred to be capable of assigning to each object a separate and unique identifying code, which can be translated into a self generated electromagnetic pulse sequence within the object, and then detected by means of a close proximity probe. In this way the present invention provides identification for an object through a means that is not visible and requires no physically separate tag or label to be affixed to the object. Thus, an advantage of the present invention is the elimination of the individual unit cost of such physically separate tags or labels. Most preferable the present invention relies on a controller to selectively connect an electrical load to a source of power to generate a digital electromagnetic signal, which can be detected by a passive probe positioned within the electromagnetic field, in proximity to the object. The controller can be a CPU, micro-controller, , micro-processor, Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), digital logic controller, or the like. The present invention provides an identification system which is not visible to the naked eye and thus is much less prone to be obliterated or destroyed or added to illegally manufactured goods.
Furthermore, the absence of the identification code will be a clear indication that the object is not a legitimate good.
Therefore, according to one aspect, the present invention provides a method of identifying an electrical device, comprising the steps of:
providing an identification code to a controller;
operatively connecting said controller to an electrical load;
using said controller to create a sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses in accordance with said identification code;
said sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses comprising an initial pulse followed by one or more pulse groups, each pulse group consisting of a time delay followed by at least one subsequent pulse;
detecting said sequence of timed pulses by means of a passive probe; and translating said sequence of timed pulses into said identification code to identify said device.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention there is also provided an apparatus for identifying an electrical device, said apparatus comprising:
a circuit comprising at least an electrical load, an electromagnetic field generator, a current varying means, and a power source operatively connected together in series;
an identification code for identifying said device; and a controller for controlling said current varying means in accordance with said identification code;
wherein said controller controls said current varying means to cause said electromagnetic field generator to emit a sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses sized and shaped to be detected by a passive probe.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Reference will now be made to preferred embodiments of the invention, by way of example only, by reference to the following drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a view of a generic device, having an apparatus for identifying an electrical device, and a passive probe, according to the present invention;
Figure 2 is a view of the circuit for the passive probe of Figure 1;
Figure 3a is a view of an algorithm for creating a sequence of electromagnetic pulses in accordance with an identification code according to the present invention;
Figure 3b is a view of an algorithm for detecting and translating the sequence of electromagnetic pulses of Figure 3a into the identification code; and Figure 4 is an amplitude vs. time graph representation of the sequence of electromagnetic pulses created by the apparatus of Figure 1.
a circuit comprising at least an electrical load, an electromagnetic field generator, a current varying means, and a power source operatively connected together in series;
an identification code for identifying said device; and a controller for controlling said current varying means in accordance with said identification code;
wherein said controller controls said current varying means to cause said electromagnetic field generator to emit a sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses sized and shaped to be detected by a passive probe.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Reference will now be made to preferred embodiments of the invention, by way of example only, by reference to the following drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a view of a generic device, having an apparatus for identifying an electrical device, and a passive probe, according to the present invention;
Figure 2 is a view of the circuit for the passive probe of Figure 1;
Figure 3a is a view of an algorithm for creating a sequence of electromagnetic pulses in accordance with an identification code according to the present invention;
Figure 3b is a view of an algorithm for detecting and translating the sequence of electromagnetic pulses of Figure 3a into the identification code; and Figure 4 is an amplitude vs. time graph representation of the sequence of electromagnetic pulses created by the apparatus of Figure 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
A preferred embodiment of the identification apparatus and method according to the present invention is shown in Figures 1 to 4. As can be seen from Figure 1, the invention comprises, in part, a device 8 having a circuit comprising a power source 10 (e.g. battery), an on/off switch 12, an electrical load 14, a electromagnetic field generator 16, a current varying means 18, a controller 20 and a memory 22 with an identification code 23.
The controller 20 can be any device capable of controlling the flow of current in the circuit from the power source 10 through the electrical load 14 and electromagnetic field generator 16, preferably by controlling the current varying means 18. The controller 20 can include a CPU, a micro-controller, a micro-processor, a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a digital logic controller, or the like. By varying the flow of electrical power from the power source 10 through both the electrical load 14 and electromagnetic field generator 16, in accordance with the identification code, the controller 20 causes the electromagnetic field generator 16 to create a sequence of timed electromagnetic pulses for detection by a passive probe 24 In the preferred embodiment the current varying means 18 and memory 23 are shown as being separate elements from the controller 20, however it will be understood that in alternate embodiments the current varying means 18 and/or the memory 22 may be combined with the controller 20 into a single unit. What is important is that the identification code 23 be provided to the controller 20. The probe 24 which is preferably an inductive coil electromagnetic sensor is also shown in Figure 1, with a display 26, which is explained in more detail below. All of the elements are operatively connected or coupled together as explained below.
The electrical load 14 is any electronic element that preferably draws at least 20 to 100mA steady state current. However, as will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art adequate results may be obtained with current draws outside of this range in view of the various factors known to affect the generation of electromagnetic fields.
Examples of electrical loads include, but are not limited to, an electrical motor, a relay coil, a solenoid, a transformer, a coil having inductance, a light (i.e. incandescent bulb or LED), a resistor, a heating element, a semiconductor, a speaker, and the like.
The electromagnetic field generator 16 may be any electrical electromagnetic field generator which is connected in series with the electrical load 14, and can include, without limitation, a wire, metal strip, or even a track on a printed circuit board. While Figure 1 depicts the probe 24 as being positioned adjacent the electromagnetic field generator 16 on the ground or negative side of the electrical load 14, those skilled in the art will understand the present invention also comprehends positioning the probe 24 near the electromagnetic field generator at the positive side of the electrical load 14. In other words the electromagnetic field generator 16 connected between the electrical load 14 and the positive side of the power source, in the example Figure 1, will also emit the electromagnetic pulses.
Accordingly, if the normal position of the electromagnetic field generator 16 does not permit adequate access for the probe (i.e. does not sufficiently project an electromagnetic field) then the electromagnetic field generator 16 may need to be re-routed intentionally to a location where access by the probe 24 to the electromagnetic field generated by the electromagnetic field generator 16 is possible (as is shown in Figure 1 with electromagnetic field generator 16 on the negative side of electrical load 14). Most preferably the electromagnetic field generator 16 will remain protected and invisible from the exterior by being behind a non-metallic wall or covering such as plastic. In this sense access to the probe means that the probe 24 can be put in sufficient proximity to the electromagnetic field generator 16 to sense the electromagnetic field emitted from the electromagnetic field generator 16 as explained in more detail below. As described in more detail below, the pulsing of current from the power source through the electrical load 14 and electromagnetic field generator 16 will cause the electromagnetic field generator 16 to emit an electromagnetic field suitably detectable by the probe 24.
The current varying means 18 is connected in series to the electromagnetic field generator 16 between the negative ground connection of the power source 10 and the electrical load 14. Preferably the current varying means 18 is an NPN transistor. However, the current varying means 18 can be any type of electronic switch, except electro-mechanical switches such as relays. Another preferred electronic varying means is an NMOS FET device. As mentioned above, the current varying means 18 may be incorporated into the controller 20 in an alternate embodiment. Also, while the drawing depicts the current varying means 18 being located on the ground or negative side of the electrical load 14, those skilled in the art will understand the present invention also comprehends positioning the current varying means 18 on the positive side of the circuit. In other words a PNP transistor or an PMOS FET
device could be connected between the electrical load 14 and the positive side of the power source 10. Of course other switches and/or user controls may also exist to add additional functionality to the circuit.
However, only a basic circuit is described for purposes of the present description. Since the method and apparatus for identifying an electrical device of the present invention is incorporated into an existing electrical device, it will be understood that the circuit of an actual device may need to be more complex in order to provide functionality of the additional features of the device.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the current varying means 18 is controlled by the controller 20, in a simple on and off fashion, so that the current from the power source 10 can flow through the electrical load 14 and the electromagnetic field generator 16, in a controlled manner. What is important is that the current varying means 18 be adapted to suddenly change the current flow through the electromagnetic field generator 16 and the electrical load 14, which are connected in series. While the present invention is illustrated with the current being suddenly turned on and off, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments the electromagnetic pulses may be generated by suddenly decreasing the current flow from on to a value less than on, suddenly increasing the current flow from a value less than on to on, suddenly increasing the current flow from on to a value more than on, etc.
The controller 20 is typically a CPU, micro-controller, micro-processor, FPGA, digital logic controller, or the like, that would already be present in the device 8. Such a controller 20 might be used to control motors, solenoids, lights, speakers, or other aspects of the electronic functioning of the device 8. As mentioned above, the current varying means 18 may be a part of the controller 20 itself or a separate element connected to the controller 20. The present invention is applicable to any device where there is such a controller controlling the current through an electrical load 14 and an electromagnetic field generator 16 in series.
The identification code 23 is preferably provided to the controller 20 via access to a memory 22, or other form of storage within the device 8, as a binary code value. As mentioned above, the memory 22 need not be a separate element of the device and may in fact be incorporated into the controller 20. For simplicity, Figures 1, 2 and 4 show the identification code 23 stored in memory 22 as the 8-bit binary code value, "10111001".
This 8-bit binary code value maps to OB9 in hexadecimal, and 185 in decimal based numeral systems. However, the present invention comprehends storing the identification code 23 in binary code values with longer bit lengths if desired. See for example Figures 3a and 3b which illustrate algorithms for handling an identification code stored as a 24-bit binary code value. However, the present invention is not limited to any one type of code format, as many types of codes and code sequences can be used according to the present invention. The identification code 23 may represent the device's serial number, a special key, a random identifier, a lot identifier or any other form of identifying means according to the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the probe 24 has a display 26 with the expected 8-bit binary code value ("10111001"), representing the identification code 23, being displayed as it was detected from the electromagnetic field emitted by the electromagnetic field generator 16 and translated into the decimal based numeral system, as explained in more detail below.
At a predetermined point in the device's operation the controller 20 reads the N-bit code value of the identification code 23 one bit at a time and controls the flow of current in the circuit from the power source 10 through the electrical load 14 and electromagnetic field generator 16, in series, causing the electromagnetic field generator 16 to emit a sequence of timed electromagnetic pulses in accordance with the N-bit code values of the identification code 23. For example, the predetermined point may be when the device is switched from off to on, or from on to off. The predetermined point can also occur at one or more pre-set intervals during the device's normal mode of operation. To prevent engaging the electrical load 14 fully, and to generate the best electromagnetic pulses for quick detection, the pulses are of short duration, preferably timed in micro-seconds. In this respect, good results have been obtained with pulses having durations in the range of 200-400 psec. According to the present invention the sequence of electromagnetic pulses can be used to generate a binary or other code for identification purposes.
As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the logic bits can be according to one of several common time-based schemes. Good results have been achieved when using two different time delays, such as a 1.75 msec delay for a logic "1" bit and a 3.75 msec delay for a logic "0"
bit. Thus, the electrical load 14, such as a motor, for example, will be turned on for 250 psec at the start of the sequence, followed by one or more pulse groups for each bit in the sequence. Each pulse group consists of either a 1.75 msec time delay and a subsequent 250 psec pulse, or a 3.75 msec time delay and a subsequent 250 psec pulse as appropriate.
The short pulsing of current through the electrical load 14 and electromagnetic field generator 16 in series creates a varying electromagnetic field due to interruption or sudden change of current flow in the electrical load 14. According to the present invention the electromagnetic pulses caused by the interruption or sudden change of current flow can be detected by the passive probe 24, which includes a simple inductive coil held in close proximity to the electromagnetic field generator 16 having the electrical feed. In this sense as stated previously, in close proximity means within the electromagnetic field generated by the electromagnetic field generator 16, whereby the probe can detect the changes in the electromagnetic field caused by the electromagnetic pulses.
Turning to Figure 2 a passive electrical coil 30 is shown within the probe 24. Good results have been achieved with a 6.8 mH (millihenry) inductor wound on a ferrite bobbin 31. It will now be appreciated the probe is a passive probe in the sense that it senses or receives the electromagnetic field fluctuations generated around the electromagnetic field generator 16, but it does not emit intentional radiation or power. Also shown is a filter and clamping network 32 which includes biasing resistors and capacitors to filter out any high frequency noise that may blur the pulse by causing multiple edges. The filter and clamping network 32 also preferably includes clamping diodes that clamp or limit the incoming signal to the ground and battery positive supply voltage rails, to protect the comparator IC inputs from being overdriven or damaged. The probe 24 can include other elements as is well known in the art, such as for example an amplifier and a monostable multivibrator (not shown). The comparator 40 functions to convert the small voltage spike sensed across the coil 30 into a large voltage pulse with regulated amplitude. The output of the comparator 40 would typically be open collector type, meaning that the output voltage can be made equal to any voltage used by the following circuitry, in this case the positive supply of the probe controller 42. The probe controller 42 can be a CPU, micro-controller, micro-processor, FPGA, digital logic controller, or the like, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. The comparator output is applied to an interrupt type input of the probe controller 42, such that any positive-going transition of an input pulse will interrupt a program flow within the probe controller 42 to signal that an important timing event has occurred. The probe controller 42 then measures the time delays between consecutive pulses, and reconstructs the original binary code value of the identification code 23 stored in the memory 22 of the device 8, by correlating the measured time intervals to the logic "1" and logic "0" bits. The probe controller 42 can then further convert the binary code value representing the identification code 23 into the decimal based numeral system and cause the decimal identification number 44 to appear on an integral screen display 26, as shown in Figure 1, in a manner well known in the art. However, it will be appreciated that the identification code 23 can be displayed on the integral screen display 26 in any form, including using graphic, symbolic, alphabetic, numeric, alpha-numeric, or other characters correlated to the binary code value of the identification code 23 originally stored in the memory 22 of the device 8. It is also contemplated that the identification code 23 detected by the probe 24 can be stored in a memory unit in the probe (not shown) for later retrieval, or transmitted to another device wirelessly or wiredly (e.g. via USB cable, etc.) by known means. Completing the probe 24 circuit is an on/off switch 46 and a probe power source 48. It will be further appreciated that even though the probe 24 and all of its elements has been described as a portable device, some or all of its elements may also be housed in a non-portable instrument case.
While Figure 1 shows an 8 bit (i.e. 1 byte) binary code value representing the identification code 23 being stored in memory 22, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, Figures 3a and 3b illustrate program logic or algorithms for detecting a 24-bit binary code value (i.e. 3 bytes, with each byte containing 8 bits).
In particular, Figure 3a depicts an algorithm for emitting electromagnetic pulses in accordance with a 24-bit binary code value representing the identification code 23 stored in memory 22 on the device 8. It will be understood that while reasonable results have been achieved with this algorithm, other algorithms are comprehended by the present invention provided that they generate a sequence of timed electromagnetic pulses in accordance with the identification code 23 contained in the memory 22 of the device 8.
As shown, the first step is to have the memory pointer (MEM_POINTER) set up to point to the first I.D. Byte address (I.D. BYTE
#1). Then the I.D. BYTE COUNT and BIT_COUNT counters are initialized to three and eight, respectively, in this example since the identification code 23 is stored as a 24-bit binary code value consisting of 3 bytes, with each byte containing 8 bits. The variable "I.D._BYTE_OOUNT" can be any number from 1 to 64, for example, to achieve corresponding binary code values having lengths of 8 to 512 bits respectively. Then the first I.D. BYTE is read from memory. Then the first I.D. BYTE is shifted left by one bit into the CARRY FLAG. Then the power is enabled to the electrical load. Then a delay of 250 psec is provided, after which the power to the electrical load is disabled. The next step is to see if the bit in the CARRY FLAG is equal to 1 for example. If yes, then a delay of 1.75 msec is incurred. If no, then the bit in the CARRY FLAG must be a 0 and a delay of 3.75 msec is incurred. In the next step the BIT_COUNT is reduced by 1, and a check is performed to see if there is another bit in the first I.D. BYTE, by checking whether the BIT_COUNT is equal to 0. If the BIT_COUNT is not equal to 0, there is another bit in the sequence and the algorithm requires going back to get the next bit value and repeating the above steps. If all of the bits in the first I.D. BYTE have been read, then BIT_COUNT will be 0, and the algorithm will increment the memory pointer to the next I.D. BYTE
address, and decrease the I.D. BYTE COUNT by 1. The process will then repeat for the next byte. Once all three bytes of the I.D. BYTE have been read, the I.D. BYTE COUNT will be 0, and the program will finish.
The short pulsing of the electrical load 14, such as a motor for example, creates voltage spikes across the probe coil 30 due to the interruption of current or the sudden change in current flow through the electrical load 14. Figure 4 shows a series of voltage spikes 49 on a graph of amplitude vs. time as they would appear at the input to comparator 40. Although the present invention only makes use of the positive voltage spikes, it is quite feasible to also make use of the negative voltage spikes that have been suppressed by the clamping diode in this preferred embodiment. As shown, the voltage spikes last about 250 psec which is the duration of time the electrical load 14 is turned on. The interval between 3 and 5 represents 2 msec and has a logic bit value of "1". Then the gap between 5 and 9 has a time value of 4 msec and represents a logic bit value of "0". The voltage spikes 49 are timed, as shown by the graph at 51 to represent a binary code value of "10111001", which is the binary code value stored in the memory 22 of the device 8 for the first byte. Other bit values will be stored for the other two bytes of the three byte (24-bit) binary code value representing the identification code 23 in the present example.
Figure 3b provides a preferred algorithm for use in the probe's controller 42. While this is a preferred algorithm it will be appreciated that other algorithms will also provide adequate results and are comprehended by the present invention. The algorithm of Figure 3b shows how the voltage spikes 49 are timed and transformed back to the original three I.D.
bytes that were emitted as electromagnetic pulses using the algorithm illustrated in Figure 3a. The probe algorithm is based on an interrupt service routine (known to those skilled in the art as an "ISR"). This ISR is triggered every time a voltage spike leading or rising edge is applied to the external interrupt port of the probe controller 42. An internal timer named TIMER-1 is used to measure the time delays between consecutive voltage spikes that trigger the external interrupt port. The initial pulse will cause the interrupt routine to turn on TIMER-1 in a reset state, and initialize the BIT_COUNT and I.D. BYTE COUNT counters to eight and three respectively for this example, as well as set up the memory pointer (MEM_POINTER) to point to the first I.D. BYTE address (I.D. BYTE#1). Each subsequent pulse causes the TIMER-1 time delay value to be read and stored temporarily into the variable TEMP, followed by a reset of TIMER-11 to start timing the next time delay in sequence.
The TEMP value represents the time delay measured between the last two voltage spike interrupt pulses, and is tested to verify that the value is within the expected range. If the TEMP value is outside of the expected range, the algorithm is aborted with the TIMER_1 disabled. The algorithm ensures that the measured time delays are within at least 10% of the expected intervals for a logic "1" (1.75.0 msec +/- 0.2 msec) or a logic "0"
(3.75 msec +/- 0.4 msec) encoded input. Once a time delay has been identified as representing either a logic "'I", or a logic "0" bit, the SET
CARRY BIT, or the CLEAR CARRY BIT, in the controller's arithmetic logic unit (ALU), is shifted into the final answer location, that being the detected I.D. BYTE in sequence. Once all three I.D. BYTEs have been successfully detected, a DONE FLAG is set prior to exiting the ISR. This action indicates to the mainline program in the probe controller 42 that the received binary code value may be converted for display or stored as appropriate.
The present invention further comprehends translating the detected binary code value representing the identification code 23 into a decimal number, and then translating each binary-coded decimal (BCD) digit in turn to its 7-segment driver equivalent, for example, to send the complete identification number 23 to a display such as a 7-segment LED type display. The BCD numbers may also be converted to ASCII and sent to an LCD driver chip for powering an LCD type display. However, all of the foregoing is common knowledge to those skilled in the art, and therefore is not described in any more detail herein.
The advantages of the present invention can now be understood.
The described invention provides a low cost way of identifying devices that have a power source, a controller, an electrical load, and an electromagnetic field generator. An example of such a device is a vibrator. A vibrator may not have a surface onto which a tag or label may be safely placed and thus the object can become unidentifiable once it is removed from the packaging. This can create concerns for the manufacturer if the device is brought in for a warranty claim, especially if there is a question as to whether the product is a genuine product or a knock off. The incremental cost for implementing the invention for each additional device is very low, as there is nothing to be physically added to the device. Essentially the present invention makes use of the existing components, namely a controller 20, a memory 22, an electrical load 14 (e.g. an electric motor), and a electromagnetic field generator 16, to emit a pulsed electromagnetic field which corresponds to the identification code 23 of the product. The probe 24 passively determines the identification code 23, by detecting the emitted electromagnetic pulses, measuring the time delays between each of the pulses, and using the time delays to derive the identification code 23 stored in the device 8.
Because the identification code 23 is imbedded in each product, in the existing memory and/or controller parts thereof, it is essentially secret and substantially tamper proof. In other words, for a person to be able to tamper with the identification code of the present invention, they would first have to know that it is encoded in the existing memory and/or controller parts of the device. Then they would have to obtain access to the identification code and/or firmware driving the controller, decode the identification code and/or the firmware, and alter the code and/or the firmware. These steps are considerably more difficult than removing or obliterating an RFID tag or the like. Moreover, since the identification code is integrated into the elements which are required to operate the electrical device, attempting to alter or remove the identification code will likely lead to the loss of functioning of the device. The present invention also can be used where space limitations would prevent the use of tags or labels and remains functional within the product even after the packaging has been removed or lost. Further, the precise identification code 23 can be kept secret by the manufacturer, also making the identification system of the present invention even more tamper-proof, even assuming that anyone can identify that an identification code is being used. The manufacturer also has the option to base the transmission of the identification code on a complex, rarely used, or secret set of user interface sequences.
As can now be appreciated the present invention can be applied to any device having a CPU, micro-controller, microprocessor, FPGA, digital logic control, or the like which is controlling the power/current to an electrical load and electromagnetic field generator. Examples of devices that are suitable include kids toys such as, toy planes, cars, robots and the like having a CPU, micro-controller, microprocessor, FPGA, or digital logic control and motors; computers and handheld devices (the load being a speaker for example); most household small and medium appliances having a CPU, micro-controller, microprocessor, FPGA, or digital logic control and a load, such as, hair dryers (the load being a heater coil or fan motor for example), can openers (the load being a motor for example), kettles (the load being a heater coil for example), fridges (the load being an ice crusher motor for example), washers/dryers (the load being a light or a motor for example), stoves (the load being a light bulb for example), air conditioners (the load being a fan motor for example), televisions (the load being a speaker for example), radios (the load being a speaker for example), portable cassette or MP3 players (the load being a head set speaker, or LED backlight for example), DVD players (the load being a disk eject motor for example); motor vehicles such as cars/buses/motorcycles/tractors (the load being a light for example);
electric or battery operated power tools (the load being a motor for example); cell phones (the load being a vibrating motor for example);
sunglasses with built in MP3 players and ear buds (the load being a speaker for example); tooth brushes (the load being a motor or inductive charge coil for example); Christmas tree lights with CPU driven flash patterns (the load being a light for example); plug in power chargers, etc.
According to another aspect of the present invention a probe can be incorporated into one device (the primary device) that has a display, and the identification code and electromagnetic pulse circuitry incorporated into an associated device. The primary device could then determine if the associated device was compatible with the primary device, before activating a feature in the primary device. For example, the primary device might be a rechargeable device such as a cell phone, and the associated device could be a charging device or docking station.
Accordingly, a cell phone can be provided with a means for accepting (or declining) charging power from a charging device/docking station, which would be activated upon the incorporated probe identifying the charging device as being compatible based on the identification code emitted by the charging device/docking station.
While reference has been made in the foregoing to preferred embodiments of the present invention it will be appreciated that variations are possible within the broad scope of the appended claims without departing from the scope of protection afforded thereby. Some of these variations have been discussed above and others will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
A preferred embodiment of the identification apparatus and method according to the present invention is shown in Figures 1 to 4. As can be seen from Figure 1, the invention comprises, in part, a device 8 having a circuit comprising a power source 10 (e.g. battery), an on/off switch 12, an electrical load 14, a electromagnetic field generator 16, a current varying means 18, a controller 20 and a memory 22 with an identification code 23.
The controller 20 can be any device capable of controlling the flow of current in the circuit from the power source 10 through the electrical load 14 and electromagnetic field generator 16, preferably by controlling the current varying means 18. The controller 20 can include a CPU, a micro-controller, a micro-processor, a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a digital logic controller, or the like. By varying the flow of electrical power from the power source 10 through both the electrical load 14 and electromagnetic field generator 16, in accordance with the identification code, the controller 20 causes the electromagnetic field generator 16 to create a sequence of timed electromagnetic pulses for detection by a passive probe 24 In the preferred embodiment the current varying means 18 and memory 23 are shown as being separate elements from the controller 20, however it will be understood that in alternate embodiments the current varying means 18 and/or the memory 22 may be combined with the controller 20 into a single unit. What is important is that the identification code 23 be provided to the controller 20. The probe 24 which is preferably an inductive coil electromagnetic sensor is also shown in Figure 1, with a display 26, which is explained in more detail below. All of the elements are operatively connected or coupled together as explained below.
The electrical load 14 is any electronic element that preferably draws at least 20 to 100mA steady state current. However, as will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art adequate results may be obtained with current draws outside of this range in view of the various factors known to affect the generation of electromagnetic fields.
Examples of electrical loads include, but are not limited to, an electrical motor, a relay coil, a solenoid, a transformer, a coil having inductance, a light (i.e. incandescent bulb or LED), a resistor, a heating element, a semiconductor, a speaker, and the like.
The electromagnetic field generator 16 may be any electrical electromagnetic field generator which is connected in series with the electrical load 14, and can include, without limitation, a wire, metal strip, or even a track on a printed circuit board. While Figure 1 depicts the probe 24 as being positioned adjacent the electromagnetic field generator 16 on the ground or negative side of the electrical load 14, those skilled in the art will understand the present invention also comprehends positioning the probe 24 near the electromagnetic field generator at the positive side of the electrical load 14. In other words the electromagnetic field generator 16 connected between the electrical load 14 and the positive side of the power source, in the example Figure 1, will also emit the electromagnetic pulses.
Accordingly, if the normal position of the electromagnetic field generator 16 does not permit adequate access for the probe (i.e. does not sufficiently project an electromagnetic field) then the electromagnetic field generator 16 may need to be re-routed intentionally to a location where access by the probe 24 to the electromagnetic field generated by the electromagnetic field generator 16 is possible (as is shown in Figure 1 with electromagnetic field generator 16 on the negative side of electrical load 14). Most preferably the electromagnetic field generator 16 will remain protected and invisible from the exterior by being behind a non-metallic wall or covering such as plastic. In this sense access to the probe means that the probe 24 can be put in sufficient proximity to the electromagnetic field generator 16 to sense the electromagnetic field emitted from the electromagnetic field generator 16 as explained in more detail below. As described in more detail below, the pulsing of current from the power source through the electrical load 14 and electromagnetic field generator 16 will cause the electromagnetic field generator 16 to emit an electromagnetic field suitably detectable by the probe 24.
The current varying means 18 is connected in series to the electromagnetic field generator 16 between the negative ground connection of the power source 10 and the electrical load 14. Preferably the current varying means 18 is an NPN transistor. However, the current varying means 18 can be any type of electronic switch, except electro-mechanical switches such as relays. Another preferred electronic varying means is an NMOS FET device. As mentioned above, the current varying means 18 may be incorporated into the controller 20 in an alternate embodiment. Also, while the drawing depicts the current varying means 18 being located on the ground or negative side of the electrical load 14, those skilled in the art will understand the present invention also comprehends positioning the current varying means 18 on the positive side of the circuit. In other words a PNP transistor or an PMOS FET
device could be connected between the electrical load 14 and the positive side of the power source 10. Of course other switches and/or user controls may also exist to add additional functionality to the circuit.
However, only a basic circuit is described for purposes of the present description. Since the method and apparatus for identifying an electrical device of the present invention is incorporated into an existing electrical device, it will be understood that the circuit of an actual device may need to be more complex in order to provide functionality of the additional features of the device.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the current varying means 18 is controlled by the controller 20, in a simple on and off fashion, so that the current from the power source 10 can flow through the electrical load 14 and the electromagnetic field generator 16, in a controlled manner. What is important is that the current varying means 18 be adapted to suddenly change the current flow through the electromagnetic field generator 16 and the electrical load 14, which are connected in series. While the present invention is illustrated with the current being suddenly turned on and off, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments the electromagnetic pulses may be generated by suddenly decreasing the current flow from on to a value less than on, suddenly increasing the current flow from a value less than on to on, suddenly increasing the current flow from on to a value more than on, etc.
The controller 20 is typically a CPU, micro-controller, micro-processor, FPGA, digital logic controller, or the like, that would already be present in the device 8. Such a controller 20 might be used to control motors, solenoids, lights, speakers, or other aspects of the electronic functioning of the device 8. As mentioned above, the current varying means 18 may be a part of the controller 20 itself or a separate element connected to the controller 20. The present invention is applicable to any device where there is such a controller controlling the current through an electrical load 14 and an electromagnetic field generator 16 in series.
The identification code 23 is preferably provided to the controller 20 via access to a memory 22, or other form of storage within the device 8, as a binary code value. As mentioned above, the memory 22 need not be a separate element of the device and may in fact be incorporated into the controller 20. For simplicity, Figures 1, 2 and 4 show the identification code 23 stored in memory 22 as the 8-bit binary code value, "10111001".
This 8-bit binary code value maps to OB9 in hexadecimal, and 185 in decimal based numeral systems. However, the present invention comprehends storing the identification code 23 in binary code values with longer bit lengths if desired. See for example Figures 3a and 3b which illustrate algorithms for handling an identification code stored as a 24-bit binary code value. However, the present invention is not limited to any one type of code format, as many types of codes and code sequences can be used according to the present invention. The identification code 23 may represent the device's serial number, a special key, a random identifier, a lot identifier or any other form of identifying means according to the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the probe 24 has a display 26 with the expected 8-bit binary code value ("10111001"), representing the identification code 23, being displayed as it was detected from the electromagnetic field emitted by the electromagnetic field generator 16 and translated into the decimal based numeral system, as explained in more detail below.
At a predetermined point in the device's operation the controller 20 reads the N-bit code value of the identification code 23 one bit at a time and controls the flow of current in the circuit from the power source 10 through the electrical load 14 and electromagnetic field generator 16, in series, causing the electromagnetic field generator 16 to emit a sequence of timed electromagnetic pulses in accordance with the N-bit code values of the identification code 23. For example, the predetermined point may be when the device is switched from off to on, or from on to off. The predetermined point can also occur at one or more pre-set intervals during the device's normal mode of operation. To prevent engaging the electrical load 14 fully, and to generate the best electromagnetic pulses for quick detection, the pulses are of short duration, preferably timed in micro-seconds. In this respect, good results have been obtained with pulses having durations in the range of 200-400 psec. According to the present invention the sequence of electromagnetic pulses can be used to generate a binary or other code for identification purposes.
As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the logic bits can be according to one of several common time-based schemes. Good results have been achieved when using two different time delays, such as a 1.75 msec delay for a logic "1" bit and a 3.75 msec delay for a logic "0"
bit. Thus, the electrical load 14, such as a motor, for example, will be turned on for 250 psec at the start of the sequence, followed by one or more pulse groups for each bit in the sequence. Each pulse group consists of either a 1.75 msec time delay and a subsequent 250 psec pulse, or a 3.75 msec time delay and a subsequent 250 psec pulse as appropriate.
The short pulsing of current through the electrical load 14 and electromagnetic field generator 16 in series creates a varying electromagnetic field due to interruption or sudden change of current flow in the electrical load 14. According to the present invention the electromagnetic pulses caused by the interruption or sudden change of current flow can be detected by the passive probe 24, which includes a simple inductive coil held in close proximity to the electromagnetic field generator 16 having the electrical feed. In this sense as stated previously, in close proximity means within the electromagnetic field generated by the electromagnetic field generator 16, whereby the probe can detect the changes in the electromagnetic field caused by the electromagnetic pulses.
Turning to Figure 2 a passive electrical coil 30 is shown within the probe 24. Good results have been achieved with a 6.8 mH (millihenry) inductor wound on a ferrite bobbin 31. It will now be appreciated the probe is a passive probe in the sense that it senses or receives the electromagnetic field fluctuations generated around the electromagnetic field generator 16, but it does not emit intentional radiation or power. Also shown is a filter and clamping network 32 which includes biasing resistors and capacitors to filter out any high frequency noise that may blur the pulse by causing multiple edges. The filter and clamping network 32 also preferably includes clamping diodes that clamp or limit the incoming signal to the ground and battery positive supply voltage rails, to protect the comparator IC inputs from being overdriven or damaged. The probe 24 can include other elements as is well known in the art, such as for example an amplifier and a monostable multivibrator (not shown). The comparator 40 functions to convert the small voltage spike sensed across the coil 30 into a large voltage pulse with regulated amplitude. The output of the comparator 40 would typically be open collector type, meaning that the output voltage can be made equal to any voltage used by the following circuitry, in this case the positive supply of the probe controller 42. The probe controller 42 can be a CPU, micro-controller, micro-processor, FPGA, digital logic controller, or the like, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. The comparator output is applied to an interrupt type input of the probe controller 42, such that any positive-going transition of an input pulse will interrupt a program flow within the probe controller 42 to signal that an important timing event has occurred. The probe controller 42 then measures the time delays between consecutive pulses, and reconstructs the original binary code value of the identification code 23 stored in the memory 22 of the device 8, by correlating the measured time intervals to the logic "1" and logic "0" bits. The probe controller 42 can then further convert the binary code value representing the identification code 23 into the decimal based numeral system and cause the decimal identification number 44 to appear on an integral screen display 26, as shown in Figure 1, in a manner well known in the art. However, it will be appreciated that the identification code 23 can be displayed on the integral screen display 26 in any form, including using graphic, symbolic, alphabetic, numeric, alpha-numeric, or other characters correlated to the binary code value of the identification code 23 originally stored in the memory 22 of the device 8. It is also contemplated that the identification code 23 detected by the probe 24 can be stored in a memory unit in the probe (not shown) for later retrieval, or transmitted to another device wirelessly or wiredly (e.g. via USB cable, etc.) by known means. Completing the probe 24 circuit is an on/off switch 46 and a probe power source 48. It will be further appreciated that even though the probe 24 and all of its elements has been described as a portable device, some or all of its elements may also be housed in a non-portable instrument case.
While Figure 1 shows an 8 bit (i.e. 1 byte) binary code value representing the identification code 23 being stored in memory 22, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, Figures 3a and 3b illustrate program logic or algorithms for detecting a 24-bit binary code value (i.e. 3 bytes, with each byte containing 8 bits).
In particular, Figure 3a depicts an algorithm for emitting electromagnetic pulses in accordance with a 24-bit binary code value representing the identification code 23 stored in memory 22 on the device 8. It will be understood that while reasonable results have been achieved with this algorithm, other algorithms are comprehended by the present invention provided that they generate a sequence of timed electromagnetic pulses in accordance with the identification code 23 contained in the memory 22 of the device 8.
As shown, the first step is to have the memory pointer (MEM_POINTER) set up to point to the first I.D. Byte address (I.D. BYTE
#1). Then the I.D. BYTE COUNT and BIT_COUNT counters are initialized to three and eight, respectively, in this example since the identification code 23 is stored as a 24-bit binary code value consisting of 3 bytes, with each byte containing 8 bits. The variable "I.D._BYTE_OOUNT" can be any number from 1 to 64, for example, to achieve corresponding binary code values having lengths of 8 to 512 bits respectively. Then the first I.D. BYTE is read from memory. Then the first I.D. BYTE is shifted left by one bit into the CARRY FLAG. Then the power is enabled to the electrical load. Then a delay of 250 psec is provided, after which the power to the electrical load is disabled. The next step is to see if the bit in the CARRY FLAG is equal to 1 for example. If yes, then a delay of 1.75 msec is incurred. If no, then the bit in the CARRY FLAG must be a 0 and a delay of 3.75 msec is incurred. In the next step the BIT_COUNT is reduced by 1, and a check is performed to see if there is another bit in the first I.D. BYTE, by checking whether the BIT_COUNT is equal to 0. If the BIT_COUNT is not equal to 0, there is another bit in the sequence and the algorithm requires going back to get the next bit value and repeating the above steps. If all of the bits in the first I.D. BYTE have been read, then BIT_COUNT will be 0, and the algorithm will increment the memory pointer to the next I.D. BYTE
address, and decrease the I.D. BYTE COUNT by 1. The process will then repeat for the next byte. Once all three bytes of the I.D. BYTE have been read, the I.D. BYTE COUNT will be 0, and the program will finish.
The short pulsing of the electrical load 14, such as a motor for example, creates voltage spikes across the probe coil 30 due to the interruption of current or the sudden change in current flow through the electrical load 14. Figure 4 shows a series of voltage spikes 49 on a graph of amplitude vs. time as they would appear at the input to comparator 40. Although the present invention only makes use of the positive voltage spikes, it is quite feasible to also make use of the negative voltage spikes that have been suppressed by the clamping diode in this preferred embodiment. As shown, the voltage spikes last about 250 psec which is the duration of time the electrical load 14 is turned on. The interval between 3 and 5 represents 2 msec and has a logic bit value of "1". Then the gap between 5 and 9 has a time value of 4 msec and represents a logic bit value of "0". The voltage spikes 49 are timed, as shown by the graph at 51 to represent a binary code value of "10111001", which is the binary code value stored in the memory 22 of the device 8 for the first byte. Other bit values will be stored for the other two bytes of the three byte (24-bit) binary code value representing the identification code 23 in the present example.
Figure 3b provides a preferred algorithm for use in the probe's controller 42. While this is a preferred algorithm it will be appreciated that other algorithms will also provide adequate results and are comprehended by the present invention. The algorithm of Figure 3b shows how the voltage spikes 49 are timed and transformed back to the original three I.D.
bytes that were emitted as electromagnetic pulses using the algorithm illustrated in Figure 3a. The probe algorithm is based on an interrupt service routine (known to those skilled in the art as an "ISR"). This ISR is triggered every time a voltage spike leading or rising edge is applied to the external interrupt port of the probe controller 42. An internal timer named TIMER-1 is used to measure the time delays between consecutive voltage spikes that trigger the external interrupt port. The initial pulse will cause the interrupt routine to turn on TIMER-1 in a reset state, and initialize the BIT_COUNT and I.D. BYTE COUNT counters to eight and three respectively for this example, as well as set up the memory pointer (MEM_POINTER) to point to the first I.D. BYTE address (I.D. BYTE#1). Each subsequent pulse causes the TIMER-1 time delay value to be read and stored temporarily into the variable TEMP, followed by a reset of TIMER-11 to start timing the next time delay in sequence.
The TEMP value represents the time delay measured between the last two voltage spike interrupt pulses, and is tested to verify that the value is within the expected range. If the TEMP value is outside of the expected range, the algorithm is aborted with the TIMER_1 disabled. The algorithm ensures that the measured time delays are within at least 10% of the expected intervals for a logic "1" (1.75.0 msec +/- 0.2 msec) or a logic "0"
(3.75 msec +/- 0.4 msec) encoded input. Once a time delay has been identified as representing either a logic "'I", or a logic "0" bit, the SET
CARRY BIT, or the CLEAR CARRY BIT, in the controller's arithmetic logic unit (ALU), is shifted into the final answer location, that being the detected I.D. BYTE in sequence. Once all three I.D. BYTEs have been successfully detected, a DONE FLAG is set prior to exiting the ISR. This action indicates to the mainline program in the probe controller 42 that the received binary code value may be converted for display or stored as appropriate.
The present invention further comprehends translating the detected binary code value representing the identification code 23 into a decimal number, and then translating each binary-coded decimal (BCD) digit in turn to its 7-segment driver equivalent, for example, to send the complete identification number 23 to a display such as a 7-segment LED type display. The BCD numbers may also be converted to ASCII and sent to an LCD driver chip for powering an LCD type display. However, all of the foregoing is common knowledge to those skilled in the art, and therefore is not described in any more detail herein.
The advantages of the present invention can now be understood.
The described invention provides a low cost way of identifying devices that have a power source, a controller, an electrical load, and an electromagnetic field generator. An example of such a device is a vibrator. A vibrator may not have a surface onto which a tag or label may be safely placed and thus the object can become unidentifiable once it is removed from the packaging. This can create concerns for the manufacturer if the device is brought in for a warranty claim, especially if there is a question as to whether the product is a genuine product or a knock off. The incremental cost for implementing the invention for each additional device is very low, as there is nothing to be physically added to the device. Essentially the present invention makes use of the existing components, namely a controller 20, a memory 22, an electrical load 14 (e.g. an electric motor), and a electromagnetic field generator 16, to emit a pulsed electromagnetic field which corresponds to the identification code 23 of the product. The probe 24 passively determines the identification code 23, by detecting the emitted electromagnetic pulses, measuring the time delays between each of the pulses, and using the time delays to derive the identification code 23 stored in the device 8.
Because the identification code 23 is imbedded in each product, in the existing memory and/or controller parts thereof, it is essentially secret and substantially tamper proof. In other words, for a person to be able to tamper with the identification code of the present invention, they would first have to know that it is encoded in the existing memory and/or controller parts of the device. Then they would have to obtain access to the identification code and/or firmware driving the controller, decode the identification code and/or the firmware, and alter the code and/or the firmware. These steps are considerably more difficult than removing or obliterating an RFID tag or the like. Moreover, since the identification code is integrated into the elements which are required to operate the electrical device, attempting to alter or remove the identification code will likely lead to the loss of functioning of the device. The present invention also can be used where space limitations would prevent the use of tags or labels and remains functional within the product even after the packaging has been removed or lost. Further, the precise identification code 23 can be kept secret by the manufacturer, also making the identification system of the present invention even more tamper-proof, even assuming that anyone can identify that an identification code is being used. The manufacturer also has the option to base the transmission of the identification code on a complex, rarely used, or secret set of user interface sequences.
As can now be appreciated the present invention can be applied to any device having a CPU, micro-controller, microprocessor, FPGA, digital logic control, or the like which is controlling the power/current to an electrical load and electromagnetic field generator. Examples of devices that are suitable include kids toys such as, toy planes, cars, robots and the like having a CPU, micro-controller, microprocessor, FPGA, or digital logic control and motors; computers and handheld devices (the load being a speaker for example); most household small and medium appliances having a CPU, micro-controller, microprocessor, FPGA, or digital logic control and a load, such as, hair dryers (the load being a heater coil or fan motor for example), can openers (the load being a motor for example), kettles (the load being a heater coil for example), fridges (the load being an ice crusher motor for example), washers/dryers (the load being a light or a motor for example), stoves (the load being a light bulb for example), air conditioners (the load being a fan motor for example), televisions (the load being a speaker for example), radios (the load being a speaker for example), portable cassette or MP3 players (the load being a head set speaker, or LED backlight for example), DVD players (the load being a disk eject motor for example); motor vehicles such as cars/buses/motorcycles/tractors (the load being a light for example);
electric or battery operated power tools (the load being a motor for example); cell phones (the load being a vibrating motor for example);
sunglasses with built in MP3 players and ear buds (the load being a speaker for example); tooth brushes (the load being a motor or inductive charge coil for example); Christmas tree lights with CPU driven flash patterns (the load being a light for example); plug in power chargers, etc.
According to another aspect of the present invention a probe can be incorporated into one device (the primary device) that has a display, and the identification code and electromagnetic pulse circuitry incorporated into an associated device. The primary device could then determine if the associated device was compatible with the primary device, before activating a feature in the primary device. For example, the primary device might be a rechargeable device such as a cell phone, and the associated device could be a charging device or docking station.
Accordingly, a cell phone can be provided with a means for accepting (or declining) charging power from a charging device/docking station, which would be activated upon the incorporated probe identifying the charging device as being compatible based on the identification code emitted by the charging device/docking station.
While reference has been made in the foregoing to preferred embodiments of the present invention it will be appreciated that variations are possible within the broad scope of the appended claims without departing from the scope of protection afforded thereby. Some of these variations have been discussed above and others will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
Claims (51)
1. A method of identifying an electrical device, comprising the steps of:
providing an identification code to a controller;
operatively connecting said controller to an electrical load;
using said controller to create a sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses in accordance with said identification code;
said sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses comprising an initial pulse followed by one or more pulse groups, each pulse group consisting of a time delay followed by at least one subsequent pulse;
detecting said sequence of timed pulses by means of a passive probe; and translating said sequence of timed pulses into said identification code to identify said device.
providing an identification code to a controller;
operatively connecting said controller to an electrical load;
using said controller to create a sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses in accordance with said identification code;
said sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses comprising an initial pulse followed by one or more pulse groups, each pulse group consisting of a time delay followed by at least one subsequent pulse;
detecting said sequence of timed pulses by means of a passive probe; and translating said sequence of timed pulses into said identification code to identify said device.
2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said identification code is unique to at least one electrical device.
3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said controller is a CPU, a micro-controller, a micro-processor, a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), or a digital logic controller.
4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said controller is programmed to generate said sequence of pulses at a pre-determined point in the device's operation.
5. The method as claimed in claim 4, wherein said device has an off setting and an on setting, and said pre-determined point is when said setting is changed from off to on, or from on to off.
6. The method as claimed in claim 4, wherein pre-determined point occurs at one or more pre-set intervals during the device's operation.
7. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said identification code is provided to said controller as a binary code value having one or more logic "1" and/or logic "0" bits.
8. The method as claimed in claim 7, wherein said binary code value comprises from 1 to 24 or more logic "1" and/or logic "0" bits.
9. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein each pulse group contains one of at least two different time delays.
10. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein one time delay correlates to said logic "1" bit or said logic "0" bit, and another time delay correlates to the other of said logic "1" bit and said logic "0" bit.
11. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein said time delay correlated to said logic "1" bit is one of 1.75 msec and 3.75 msec, and the time delay correlated to said logic "0" bit is the other of said 1.75 msec and said 3.75 msec.
12. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said detecting step further comprises the step of measuring the time delays in each of said one or more pulse groups.
13. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein said translating step comprises the step of converting said measured time delays into logic "1"
and/or logic "0" bits.
and/or logic "0" bits.
14. The method as claimed in claim 13, wherein said translating step further comprises the step of displaying said identification code on said probe, storing said identification code in a memory unit in said probe for later retrieval, or transmitting said identification code to another device wirelessly or wiredly.
15. The method as claimed in claim 14, wherein said translating step further comprises displaying said identification code on said probe using graphic, symbolic, alphabetic, numeric, or alpha-numeric characters correlated to said identification code.
16. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said power source is a DC battery and said electrical load draws at least 20 to 100 mA or more current.
17. The method as claimed in claim 16, wherein said electrical load is an electric motor, relay coil, solenoid, speaker coil, transformer, or a coil having inductance.
18. The method as claimed in claim 16, wherein said electrical load is a resistor, a heater element, an incandescent light bulb, a semiconductor, or an LED.
19. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said probe is portable and said detecting step comprises positioning said probe within said electromagnetic field pulses.
20. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said probe comprises an inductive coil electromagnetic sensor.
21. The method as claimed in claim 20, wherein said probe further comprises an amplifier, a comparator, and/or a monostable multivibrator.
22. The method, as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein said device is a hand held electronic device.
23. The method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein said device is a sex toy, children's toy, computer, household appliance, motor vehicle, cell phone, air conditioner, television, radio, cassette player, CD
player, MP3 player, power tool, electric toothbrush, Christmas tree lights, or charging device.
player, MP3 player, power tool, electric toothbrush, Christmas tree lights, or charging device.
24. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said device is an associated device, and said probe is incorporated into a primary device, said method further comprising the step of activating a feature in said primary device upon said identification code of the associated device being identified and accepted by said primary device as being correlated to a compatible associated device.
25. The method as claimed in claim 24, wherein said primary device is a rechargeable device, and said associated device is a charging device adapted to provide charging power to said rechargeable device, and said step of activating a feature comprises said rechargeable device accepting said charging power from said charging device.
26. An apparatus for identifying an electrical device, said apparatus comprising:
a circuit comprising at least an electrical load, an electromagnetic field generator, a current varying means, and a power source operatively connected together in series;
an identification code for identifying said device; and a controller for controlling said current varying means in accordance with said identification code;
wherein said controller controls said current varying means to cause said electromagnetic field generator to emit a sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses sized and shaped to be detected by a passive probe.
a circuit comprising at least an electrical load, an electromagnetic field generator, a current varying means, and a power source operatively connected together in series;
an identification code for identifying said device; and a controller for controlling said current varying means in accordance with said identification code;
wherein said controller controls said current varying means to cause said electromagnetic field generator to emit a sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses sized and shaped to be detected by a passive probe.
27. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 26, wherein said identification code is unique to at least said device.
28. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 26, wherein said controller is a CPU, a micro-controller, a micro-processor, a FPGA, or a digital logic control.
29. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 26, wherein controller is configured to operate said current varying means to cause said electromagnetic field generator to emit said sequence of timed electromagnetic field pulses at a pre-determined point in the apparatus's operation.
30. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 29, wherein said apparatus has an off setting and an on setting, and said pre-determined point is when said setting is changed from off to on, or from on to off.
31. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 29, wherein said pre-determined point occurs at one or more pre-set intervals during the apparatus's operation.
32. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 26, wherein said identification code comprises a binary code value having one or more logic "1" and/or logic "0" bits.
33. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 32, wherein said binary code value comprises from 1 to 24 or more logic "1" and/or logic "0" bits.
34. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 33, wherein said sequence of timed pulses comprises an initial pulse followed by at least one or more pulse groups.
35. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 34, wherein each of said one or more pulse groups consists of one of at least two different time delays followed by at least one subsequent pulse.
36. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 35, wherein one time delay correlates to a logic "1" bit or a logic "0" bit, and another time delay correlates to the other of said logic "1" bit and said logic "0" bit.
37. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 36, wherein said time delay correlated to said logic "1" bit is one of 1.75 msec and 3.75 msec, and said time delay correlated to said logic "0" bit is the other of said 1.75 msec and said 3.75 msec.
38. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 34, wherein said probe comprises a means for measuring the time delays in each of said one or more pulse groups.
39. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 38, wherein said probe further comprises a means for translating said measured time delays into said logic "1" and/or logic "0" bits.
40. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 38, wherein said probe further comprises a display for displaying said identification code, or a memory unit for storing said identification code for later retrieval, or transmitting said identification code to another device wirelessly or wiredly.
41. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 40, wherein said probe display is configured to display said identification code using graphic, symbolic, alphabetic, numeric, or alpha-numeric characters correlated to said identification code.
42. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 26, wherein said power source is a DC battery and said electrical load draws at least 20 to 100 mA or more current.
43. The apparatus as claimed in claim 26, wherein said electrical load is an electric motor, relay coil, solenoid, speaker coil, transformer, or a coil having inductance.
44. The apparatus as claimed in claim 26, wherein said electrical load is a resistor, a heater element, an incandescent light bulb, a semiconductor, or an LED.
45. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 26, wherein said probe comprises an inductive coil sensor.
46. The apparatus, as claimed in claim 45, wherein said probe further comprises an amplifier, a comparator, and/or a monostable multivibrator.
47. The apparatus, as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 46, wherein said device is a hand held electronic device.
48. The apparatus, as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 46, wherein said device is a sex toy, children's toy, computer, household appliance, motor vehicle, cell phone, air conditioner, television, radio, cassette player, CD player, MP3 player, power tool, electric toothbrush, Christmas tree lights, or charging device.
49. The apparatus as claimed in claim 26, wherein said device is an associated device, and said probe is incorporated into a primary device.
50. The device as claimed in claim 49, wherein said primary device is a rechargeable device, and said associated device is a charging device adapted to provide charging power to said rechargeable device.
51. The device as claimed in claim 26, wherein said current varying means is an NPN transistor, PNP transistor, NMOS FET device, or PMOS
FET device.
FET device.
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2678298A CA2678298A1 (en) | 2009-09-04 | 2009-09-04 | Method and apparatus for identifying an electrical device |
| PCT/CA2010/001328 WO2011026220A1 (en) | 2009-09-04 | 2010-08-27 | Method and apparatus for identifying an electrical device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2678298A CA2678298A1 (en) | 2009-09-04 | 2009-09-04 | Method and apparatus for identifying an electrical device |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2678298A1 true CA2678298A1 (en) | 2011-03-04 |
Family
ID=43646010
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2678298A Abandoned CA2678298A1 (en) | 2009-09-04 | 2009-09-04 | Method and apparatus for identifying an electrical device |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2678298A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2011026220A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US9855462B2 (en) | 2015-03-24 | 2018-01-02 | Kalikha Inc. | Kegel health system |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US11258258B2 (en) | 2019-08-12 | 2022-02-22 | Inergy Holdings, LLC | Multi-input power conversion and energy storage |
Family Cites Families (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TWI228682B (en) * | 2002-02-22 | 2005-03-01 | Winbond Electronics Corp | Volume-production compound contactless electromagnetic induction encrypted integrated circuit |
| EP1825225B1 (en) * | 2004-12-15 | 2016-04-27 | Mark Anthony Howard | Inductive detector |
-
2009
- 2009-09-04 CA CA2678298A patent/CA2678298A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2010
- 2010-08-27 WO PCT/CA2010/001328 patent/WO2011026220A1/en active Application Filing
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US9855462B2 (en) | 2015-03-24 | 2018-01-02 | Kalikha Inc. | Kegel health system |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO2011026220A1 (en) | 2011-03-10 |
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