Dive watches have been an essential tool for professional and recreational divers for many decades. These timepieces are designed to withstand the rigors of underwater exploration and provide accurate timekeeping in the most challenging conditions. One critical feature that ensures the durability and functionality of dive watches is the helium release valve (HRV). In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of HRVs, understanding what they are, how they work, and why they are crucial for divers. What Is a Helium Release Valve? A Helium Release Valve, often abbreviated as HRV, is a specialized feature found in some high-end dive watches. It is a small, unobtrusive valve designed to release helium gas that may accumulate within the watch during deep-sea diving operations. The presence of helium in a dive watch is a common occurrence during saturation diving or extended periods spent in pressurized environments. Helium molecules are exceptionally tiny and can permeate the seals and gaskets of a dive watch over time. While this may not be a significant issue during regular recreational diving, it becomes critical during saturation diving, where divers live in a pressurized environment for extended periods and breathe a helium-oxygen mixture. The helium molecules can enter the watch case and increase the internal pressure, potentially leading to damage or malfunction. How Does It Work? The helium release valve operates on a simple principle: it allows excess helium gas that has seeped into the watch to be released gradually. It prevents the watch crystal or case from being forcibly expelled when the diver ascends to the surface and the pressure inside and outside the watch begins to equalize. The HRV is typically located on the side of the watch case, integrated into the design. It has a one-way valve that opens to release the accumulated helium when the internal pressure exceeds a certain threshold. This ensures that the watch remains watertight during the dive but can safely vent helium as needed. History in Patents HRVs began to appear in dive watches during the mid-20th century, with several watch manufacturers experimenting with different designs and mechanisms to address the issue of helium accumulation in deep-sea diving. Brands like Rolex and Doxa are often credited with pioneering the development and popularization of HRVs. Rolex is known for its contribution to dive watch technology with the Rolex Sea-Dweller, introduced in the 1960s. The Sea-Dweller featured an early version of the helium escape valve to release helium gas that could accumulate during saturation diving. Rolex patented its HRV in 1967 (and received the grant in 1970) as CH492246A. Patent CH492246A, titled “Montre étanche” (1967), assigned to Rolex Montres S. A. Doxa, a Swiss watchmaker, is also recognized for its SUB concept and the SUB 300 dive watch. Released in 1967, the SUB 300 featured the "US Navy no-deco" concept, including a helium release valve, which helped make it a favorite among professional divers. Interestingly Doxa filed its patent CH489048A, titled “Montre de plongeur”, a few months before Rolex – albeit with a notably take on the HRV. Rolex’s variant of course became (and has remained the more) popular design, fueled in no small amount by having similar overall design as Rolex’s Submariner line of watches. Patent CH489048A, titled “Montre de plongeur” (1967), assigned to Manuf des Montres DOXA S. A. Why Are Helium Release Valves Essential for Dive Watches? Prevents Damage: Without an HRV, the increasing internal pressure from trapped helium gas could lead to catastrophic damage to the watch, including shattered crystals or blown-off case backs. HRVs protect the watch from these potential issues. Safety for Saturation Divers: Saturation divers often live and work in high-pressure environments for extended periods. Having a reliable HRV in their dive watch is essential for safety and ensuring the proper functioning of their timepiece. Durability: Dive watches are designed to withstand the harshest underwater conditions, and HRVs contribute to their overall durability and longevity. The presence of an HRV adds another layer of robustness to these timepieces. Maintaining Accuracy: Maintaining the integrity of the watch case and crystal ensures that the watch's accuracy is preserved, even in challenging conditions. Versatility: While HRVs are primarily associated with professional dive watches, they can also be found in some recreational dive watches. This versatility ensures that all divers, regardless of their experience level, can benefit from this technology. Conclusion Helium release valves are a testament to the precision and engineering that go into designing high-quality dive watches. They play a vital role in maintaining the structural integrity and accuracy of these timepieces, especially in extreme diving conditions. Whether you're a professional saturation diver or an enthusiastic recreational diver, a dive watch equipped with an HRV is an invaluable tool that enhances safety and reliability during your underwater adventures. So, the next time you strap on your dive watch and explore the depths of the ocean, take a moment to appreciate the marvel of the helium release valve keeping your watch ticking with precision. References: https://www.rolexmagazine.com/2020/02/the-real-history-of-rolex-helium.html#/page/1 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helium_release_valve https://perezcope.com/2020/02/25/the-doxa-hrv/ https://worldwide.espacenet.com/patent/search/family/004291191/publication/CH489048A?q=pn%3DCH489048A https://worldwide.espacenet.com/patent/search/family/004409591/publication/CH492246A?q=pn%3DCH492246A

In 2009, the Wireless Gigabit Alliance announced its intentions to create a new high-speed wireless standard called WiGig that marks a new chapter in the history of wireless communication technologies. It is designed to promote significantly faster speed for wireless network connections and can be considered a novel alternative to Wi-Fi to encourage faster internet speeds. WiGig began as an independent development effort but is now managed and developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance. WiGig has been standardized as the IEEE 802.11ad standard. WiGig is a relatively new wireless technology that operates in the 60 GHz spectrum – versus 2.4 GHz (802.11b, g n) and 5 GHz (802.11n, ac) – which has both more bandwidth and less interference available to it. For bandwidth, depending on the region, it is typically 7 GHz (albeit Europe has 9 GHz and China has 5 GHz). The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has allocated 14 GHz of the spectrum - from 57 GHz to 71 GHz - for unlicensed use. What is WiGig? WiGig has been absorbed into the WiFi alliance (done in March 2013), and efforts are being made to create devices having the capabilities of both WiFi and WiGig specifications. The aim of WiGig is to eliminate the need for wired communication between the devices and create an environment, where all the devices are connected to each other all the time ready to share the data in a blink of an eye. WiGig is still in its nascent stage. WiGig includes support for existing WiFi bands. WiGig uses the 60 GHz spectrum to provide speeds up to 7 Gbits/s. It is used to provide a high-speed connection that can be for wireless storage devices and enable a constant connection between two devices at multi-gigabit speeds. WiGig has the potential close to 10 times faster than WiFi, and it might be fast enough to let one transfer the contents of a 25GB Blu-ray disc in less than a minute. Wi-Fi uses the crowded 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands, and WiGig uses the relatively unused 60GHz spectrum. This enables it to use wider channels than standard Wi-Fi, resulting in significantly faster data rates of up to 8 Gbps. WiGig uses “Beamforming”, a type of Radio Frequency (RF) management in which an access point uses multiple antennas to send out the same signal. Beamforming is considered a subset antenna or Advanced Antenna Systems (AAS). By broadcasting various signals and analyzing the feedback from clients, the wireless LAN infrastructure can adjust the signals it sends out and determine the best path the signal should take in order to reach a client device. In a sense, Beamforming shapes the RF beam as it traverses the physical space of the enterprise. Beamforming efficiently enhances the uplink and downlink SNR performances as well as the overall network capacity. Beamforming is also known as spatial filtering. This focused broadcast serves to eliminate any interference from nearby devices, as well as to maintain high performance even in the areas where the 60 GHz spectrum might be in heavy use. Multi-band Wi-Fi Certified products will be able to smartly and seamlessly switch between 2.4, 5, and 60 GHz. Beamforming can help improve wireless bandwidth utilization. It can thus improve video streaming, voice quality, and other bandwidth- and latency-sensitive transmissions. As a result, the WiGig device requires line-of-sight between one another for optimal performance. 802.11ad Frame Structure The 802.11ad Frame consists of three parts preamble, header, and payload. Preamble is a known data pattern which provides time estimation, Automatic Gain Control (AGC), also called Automatic Volume Control (AVC), is a closed-loop feedback regulating circuit in an amplifier or chain of amplifiers, the purpose of which is to maintain suitable signal amplitude at its output, despite variation of the signal amplitude at the input adjustment and channel estimation. The Header contains information useful to decode the rest of the packet i.e. payload, the header carries the modulation and coding scheme of the payload. Modulation Methods Control modulation using MCS 0 (27.5 Mbps) Single carrier modulation using MCS 1-12 (385 to 4620 Mbps) and MCS 25-31 (693 to 6756.75 Mbps) OFDM modulation using MCS 13-24 (625.6 Mbps to 2503 Mbps). Present Scenario Currently, the short-range applications for WiGig are compelling. Screen sharing, Virtual Reality (VR) headsets are examples where WiGig is implemented. Companies like Blu Wireless, Intel, Nitero, Peraso, Qualcomm, and Tensorcom specialize in WiGig semiconductors. Dell is including WiGig in selected laptops and wireless docking stations. Other companies supporting WiGig include router makers Acelink, Netgear, and TPlink. New tri-band wireless routers support 802.11n at 2.4GHz, 802.11ac at 5GHz and 802.11ad at 60GHz. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 820 802.11ac/ad ready SoC made its way onto cellphone handsets, with tier-2 vendors such as LeTV and announced a WiGig phone based on the chipset at CES in January 2016. The first major handset manufacturer (Google) announced two models (the Pixel and Pixel XL), which is dominated by the iPhone, are based on the Snapdragon 820 chipset. The Wi-Fi Alliance officially listed the devices as being the first Wi-Fi Certified WiGig products. These provide the basis for future interoperability tests and certification. Some of them are Dell Latitude E7450/70, Intel Tri-Band Wireless, Peraso 60GHz USB Adapter Design Kit, Qualcomm technologies 802.11ad Wi-Fi client and router solution (based on the QCA9500 chipset), Socionext 802.11ad Reference Adapter, Netgear R9000 - Nighthawk X10 - AD7200 Smart WiFi Router, Qualcomm Atheros QCA9984 + QCA9500 802.11ad chipset, CPU: Qualcomm IPQ8065 @1.7GHz Dual Core Internet Processor, WLAN: Qualcomm Atheros QCA9984 (2.4GHz) + QCA9984 (5GHz) + QCA6320 (60GHz MAC/BB) + QCA6310 (60GHz RF transceiver), TP-LINK AD7200 (Talon) - AD7200 Multi-band Wi-Fi Router Up to 4600Mbps (60GHz), 1733Mbps (5GHz) and 800Mbps (2.4GHz), AC2600 4x4 Qualcomm MU-MIMO with single-stream 802.11ad radio, Qualcomm @1.4GHz Dual Core Internet Processor, 2x USB 3.0 ports, Qualcomm IPQ8064 combined with QCA9500 802.11ad chipset, TP-Link Router[14], ASUS ZenFone 4 Pro [15], Acer TravelMate P658. 802.11ad is also supported by at least a few chipsets by Broadcom (BCM20130 - 802.11ad SoC and BCM20138 802.11ad RFIC) and by Qualcomm Atheros (QCA9500 - 802.11ad chipset 802.11ad 60GHz (4.6Gbps PHY), QCA6300 – 802.11ad chipset series (Wilocity Wil6300), QCA6310 (60GHz RF transceiver), QCA6320 (60GHz MAC/BB), QCA6335 (60GHz MAC/BB) + QCA6310 (RFIC) Applications - WiGig • Wireless docking between devices like smartphones, laptops, projectors, and tablets • Simultaneous streaming of multiple, ultra-high definition videos and movies • More immersive gaming augmented reality and virtual reality experiences • Fast download of HD movies • Convenient public kiosk services • Easier handling of bandwidth-intensive applications in the enterprise [11] There are standards that may compete or overlap with the developing standard. WirelessHD, WiMax, Wireless Home Digital Interface (WHDi) and Wi-Fi standards like 802.11ad (similar to 5G), 802.11ac similar to LTE-Advanced and 802.11n (similar to LTE) are strong competitors to WiGig. [6] Future Potential WiGig has great potential in the development of all-wireless environments. WiGig is a wireless standard that can handle all of the communication needs. Conference room’s users may want to connect to projectors, the office LAN and each other; WiGig eliminates the need for cables and different types of connectors. WiGig has the bandwidth to handle all of the communication tasks simultaneously. WiGig’s speed and low latency make it be used as a dependable wireless replacement for high-fidelity wired connections like HDMI. Its unique attributes also make it well suited to connecting virtual reality and augmented reality equipment, which currently relies on restrictive wires. Multimedia streaming, gaming, and networking applications will also benefit. It’s predicted that around half of the smartphones shipped in 2021 will feature WiGig connectivity. • Privacy: WiGig is an attractive option for privacy-concerned issues as it offers exceptional bandwidth using signals that can't easily escape the building. • Drawback: The downside of operating at such a high frequency is that the transmission distances are shorter and the waveforms lack the power to penetrate walls and other moderately dense materials. WiGig’s range is typically limited to around 30 feet (9 meters) that is less. Seminal WiGig Patents 1. Application layer FEC framework for WiGig (US8839078B2) Current Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co Ltd. It relates to reliable data transmission over wireless connections and, more specifically, to a method and an apparatus for implementing a Forward Error Correction (FEC) framework at the application layer for communication over a Wireless Gigabit Alliance (WiGig) link. The Wireless Gigabit Alliance specification (WiGig) is directed to a multi-gigabit speed wireless communications technology. As such, WiGig enables high-performance wireless data, display, and audio applications that supplement the capabilities of today's wireless Local Area Network (LAN) devices. However, the WiGig specification does not allow the use of an Automatic Repeat Request (ARQ) scheme during the broadcast/Multicast transmission. In time-sensitive applications (e.g. multimedia, gaming, and so forth), ARQ is not the most efficient error control scheme, especially when the channel suffers long outages and high packet loss rate caused by blockage and a relatively slow beamforming algorithm. In the absence of the ARQ feedback, the Physical Layer Forward Error Correcting (PHY FEC) codes cannot provide enough protection to achieve low packet loss rate (approximately 10−5). As such, it is necessary to have a second FEC scheme to reduce the packet loss rate. A method for performing forward error correction in a wireless communication device in a wireless communication network is provided. The method includes transmitting Application Layer Forward Error Correction (AL-FEC) capability information during a capabilities exchange. A set of source packets are reshaped to k equal-sized source symbols. Systematic packets for the source symbols and at least one parity packet is encoded using a Single Parity Check (SPC) AL-FEC code on the k source symbols. A header of each encoded packet includes a parity packet indicator. The encoded packets are processed in a Media Access Control (MAC) layer and a Physical (PHY) layer for transmission. 2 Automatic antenna sector-level sweep in an IEEE 802.11ad system (US9716537) Current Assignee: Amd Far East Ltd Advanced Micro Devices Inc. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11ad standard, also known as WiGig, provides up to approximately 7 Gigabits per second data rate over the 60 GHz frequency band for consumer applications such as wireless transmission of high-definition video. Wireless communication devices that operate within Extremely High Frequency (EHF) bands, such as the 60 GHz frequency band, are able to transmit and receive signals using relatively small antennas. EHF devices typically incorporate beamforming technology in order to reduce the impact of atmospheric attenuation and boost communication range. In both a Transmit Sector Sweep (TXSS) and a Receive Sector Sweep (RXSS), the wireless station must switch its antenna configuration multiple times at known timing boundaries, where the switching occurs during test frame transmission for a TXSS and during test frame reception for an RXSS. The goal of the Sector-Level Sweep (SLS) phase is to identify and select an antenna configuration that allows the wireless stations to communicate at a threshold Physical layer (PHY) rate. The timing between antenna configuration switches during an SLS, as described in the IEEE 802.11ad specification, can be as short as 1 microsecond (us). Here techniques for performing automatic antenna sector-level sweep switching are described. One embodiment detail about an apparatus comprising of a look-up table for storing a set of antenna configuration entries and an SLS controller implemented in hardware that is communicatively coupled to the Lookup Table (LUT). The SLS controller operates to switch between different antenna configuration entries in the set of antenna configuration entries stored in the lookup table in response a set of one or more signals, including a signal from a timing source, and to periodically change the configuration of the set of one or more antennas. Another embodiment, the apparatus may adjust a timing source for triggering antenna configurations changes based on whether the SLS operation is a TXSS or an RXSS. For both the TXSS and RXSS operations, the apparatus maintains a local TSF timer that is synchronized with one or more TSF timers on remote devices. Based on the local TSF timer, the apparatus may determine designated switch times for changing antenna configurations during an SLS operation. Specifically, the apparatus may change the antenna configuration before the designated switch time if a clear channel assessment indicates that a channel over which the apparatus and the transmitting device are communicating is clear. This approach is capable to tolerate time differences between TSF timers such that the TSF timers do not need to be perfectly synchronized. 3. Fast indirect antenna control (US9450620B1) Current Assignee: Amd Far East Ltd Advanced Micro Devices Inc. It relates to multi-gigabit speed Radio Frequency (RF) communications, particularly, to fast indirect antenna control in wireless communications devices that communicate wirelessly over a Millimeter Wave (mm-wave) RF band such as, for example, the 60 GigaHertz (GHz) frequency band. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11ad standard, also known as WiGig, provides up to approximately 7 Gigabits per second data rate over the 60 GHz frequency band for consumer applications such as wireless transmission of high-definition video. Here a digital interface and control module and a multi-function digital bus for use in a wireless radio frequency receiver, transmitter, or transceiver are described that communicates over a millimeter-wave band at multi-gigabit speeds. The control module provides a low power, low cost, small form factor, and low pin-count solution for high-speed control of a multi-gigabit radio frequency circuitry. The control module has the potential to be used to steer an antenna array for beamforming including selecting different antennas and different phases in compliance with IEEE 802.11ad/WiGig specifications. 4. Adaptive WiGig equalizer (US9231792B1) Current Assignee: Amd Far East Ltd. Advanced Micro Devices Inc. Here an adaptive equalization system and operating method are disclosed, which adapts which equalizer is used based on detected conditions. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11ad standard, also known as WiGig, promises up to approximately 7 Gigabits per second data rate over the 60 GHz frequency band for consumer applications such as wireless transmission of high-definition video. In digital wireless communications systems, the operation takes place in or near the 60 GHz frequency band. Multipath propagation results in a form of signal distortion referred to as Inter-Symbol Interference (ISI), where one transmitted symbol interferes with subsequently transmitted symbols. If ISI is unaddressed, it may lead to a high bit error rate in the receiver process and prevent the signal from being correctly decoded. To mitigate the negative effects of ISI, the receiving device typically employs an equalizer that reverses the distortion, thereby flattening the channel frequency response. Frequency Domain Equalizers (FDEs) are a class of equalizers that operate in the frequency domain when correcting distortion. These equalizers are generally more effective at correcting distortion than equalizers that operate in the time domain. However, when operating on WiGig or other high-frequency signals, FDEs typically consume more power than other classes of equalizers. In some cases, an FDE may not yield significant improvements over equalizers that operate in the time domain, especially where signal distortion is relatively low. An alternative to an FDE is a Decision Feedback Equalizer (DFE). A DFE uses feedback from previous symbol decisions to eliminate ISI on an incoming signal. A DFE generally requires less power than an FDE but also has inferior performance in terms of distortion correction. The DFE's inferior performance may result in relatively high bit error rates and incorrect decoding when the received signal is highly distorted. Therefore, a DFE may not be suitable for some applications. 5. Beamforming protocol for wireless communications (US9094071B2) Current Assignee: Avago Technologies General IP Singapore Pte Ltd. It relates to the communication device comprised of an antenna, a radio circuitry, coupled to the antenna, which is operative to transmit a first signal to establish Beamforming during channel time allocation to at least one additional communication device via antenna using a Beamforming training protocol. Communication device refers to the any of router which is comprised of antenna, radio circuitry which is coupled with antenna and is used to form a Beamforming signal to connect to at least one communication device, radio circuitry further includes Antenna Weight Vector (AWV) circuitry, that is operative to calculate an AWV. The first signal is sent with transmitting functionality to establish a configuration of the antenna, based on that second signal is sent that indicates the Beamforming capability that includes a receive functionality. The configuration of the antenna is modified based on AWV. 6. Beamforming system and method (US8224387B2) Current Assignee: Airbus Defence and Space Ltd. It relates to a Beamforming system that can be used for both receive and transmit Beamforming. A system receives samples of several signals, each sample containing a band of frequencies and routes all sampled signals associated with the same Beam formed frequency band. A Beamforming system comprised of an input switch configured to receive samples of a number of signals associated with a plurality of beam-formed frequency bands, a selection stage is used to select a predetermined number of routed sampled signals according to predetermined criteria. The weighting stage is configured to apply weighting coefficients to the selected signals. An accumulator is configured to accumulate the weighted signals to form a composite signal. A switch arrangement is configured to select a composite signal and route the composite signal. Conclusion In conclusion, WiGig technology stands as a remarkable leap forward in the ever-evolving landscape of wireless communication. Its ability to transmit data at gigabit speeds over short distances has the potential to transform how we connect and interact with our devices, whether it's supercharging our home networks or revolutionizing the way we stream, share, and communicate. While WiGig's promise is evident, it's equally important to recognize the intellectual property landscape that underpins its development. Patents play a pivotal role in safeguarding innovation, and the patent landscape surrounding WiGig is a testament to the incredible efforts invested in its advancement. These patents not only protect the inventive ideas but also provide a roadmap for others to build upon, fostering a cycle of continuous innovation in the field of high-speed wireless technology. As WiGig continues to evolve, it is clear that it holds the potential to drive transformative changes across industries, from entertainment and gaming to healthcare and beyond. The journey of WiGig is a testament to human ingenuity, and as technology enthusiasts, we can eagerly anticipate the exciting developments it will bring in the years to come. Copperpod provides Portfolio Analysis to identify high value patents in a given portfolio and their licensing opportunities. Copperpod's IP monetization team helps clients mine patent portfolios for the best patents in a given portfolio. Our portfolio analysis is built upon a deeply researched algorithm based on 40+ parameters - and ranks each patent according to a highly customized PodRank. Please contact us at info@copperpodip.com to know more about our Portfolio Analysis services.

In a world where reality and digital innovation converge, augmented reality (AR) headsets stand at the forefront of technological wonder. These futuristic devices promise to transform the way we perceive and interact with the world around us. Picture this: an ordinary street corner becomes a portal to a virtual world, a classroom lesson springs to life before your eyes, and your daily commute becomes a gateway to alternate dimensions. The AR headset, equipped with cutting-edge technology, brings these possibilities to life, seamlessly blending the real and virtual. But what exactly are AR headsets, how do they work, and what does the future hold for this remarkable technology? Let’s explore the world of AR headsets, from their inception to the limitless potential they hold for changing our reality. What are AR Headsets? Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital information, such as images, videos, 3D models, or text, onto the real-world environment. It enhances the user's perception of reality by providing additional, computer-generated sensory input. This digital information is typically viewed through a device like a smartphone, tablet, or augmented reality headset, but it can also be experienced through heads-up displays (HUDs) in vehicles or other transparent screens. An Augmented Reality (AR) headset, also known as a mixed reality headset or smart glasses, is a wearable device that combines elements of the physical world with computer-generated sensory input. These headsets are designed to overlay digital information, such as 3D graphics, text, or video, onto the user's view of the real world. AR headsets typically consist of a pair of glasses or goggles that include displays, sensors, and computing power. How Does AR Headsets Work? The process behind Augmented Reality (AR) glasses/headsets involves several steps to seamlessly integrate digital information into the user's real-world view. Here's a breakdown of these steps: Sensors and Cameras: AR glasses are equipped with an array of sensors, including accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers. These sensors track the movements and orientation of the glasses in real-time. Cameras mounted on the glasses capture the user's surroundings, providing a live video feed of the real world. Tracking and Mapping: AR glasses use computer vision and simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) algorithms to understand the user's environment. They identify key features, objects, or markers in the surroundings to create a 3D map of the environment. Position and Orientation Calculation: The collected data from sensors and cameras is processed by an onboard computer or a connected device (like a smartphone or external processing unit). This computer calculates the precise position and orientation of the glasses in real-time. Content Creation and Rendering: Based on the user's environment and the detected markers, the AR glasses generate or retrieve digital content. This content could include 3D models, text, animations, or other virtual elements that will be overlaid onto the real world. Display and Optics: AR glasses have transparent or semi-transparent displays in the eyepiece. These displays use optics like waveguides, beam splitters, or projection technology to overlay the digital content onto the user's view. The optics ensure that the virtual elements align accurately with the real world. Content Alignment: The system continuously aligns the virtual content with the user's perspective, ensuring that digital objects appear anchored to their real-world counterparts. The tracking data helps in this alignment, making sure that digital elements move convincingly as the user's head moves. User Interaction: Many AR glasses support various interaction methods. Users can use gestures, voice commands, eye-tracking, or physical controllers to interact with and manipulate digital objects. Audio Integration: AR glasses often come with built-in speakers or headphones to provide spatial audio. This enhances the immersive experience, allowing users to hear sounds as if they are coming from the direction of the virtual objects. User Experience: The user sees the merged view through the AR glasses. They can explore the environment while interacting with digital content seamlessly integrated into their field of vision. Real-Time Adjustments: The system continuously adapts to changes in the environment. For instance, if the user moves to a different location or interacts with the digital objects, the AR glasses make real-time adjustments to maintain the illusion of the digital content being part of the real world. Typically, an optical system for augmented reality comprises various components. The light sources for augmented reality often utilize microdisplays like organic light-emitting diodes (OLED) or liquid crystal displays (LCD). In a binocular HMD, two displays create distinct images for each eye, enabling 3D perception through stereoscopy. In holographic HMDs, coherent light is modulated by a spatial light modulator (SLM). Meanwhile, the real-world light sources consist of light scattered by objects within the field of view. The receivers are quite straightforward; they are the user's own eyes. These optical elements work together to merge light from the microdisplays with that from the real world, ultimately projecting augmented information from the microdisplays onto the real world. An illustrative example, as depicted in the below figure, involves the microdisplay being imaged at a distance from the AR glasses. This process is achieved through components like beam-shaping lenses, in-coupling prisms, prescription lenses, and a free-form image combiner. The resulting image, which combines the real scene with virtual information (augmented content), is then delivered to the user's eyes via the prescription lens. Image Source: https://www.synopsys.com/glossary/what-is-augmented-reality-optics.html Figure shows the side view and the beam path of the AR image of the proposed system. The prescription lens works both for vision correction and for wave-guide of the AR image. Light rays from a microdisplay refracted by a beam shaping lens enter the prescription lens through an in-coupling prism and create a magnified virtual image located a distance from the lens. Image Source: https://www.synopsys.com/glossary/what-is-augmented-reality-optics.html The detailed diagram for geometric parameters in the Prescription AR Image Source: https://www.synopsys.com/glossary/what-is-augmented-reality-optics.html The 3D diagram of optical components History - AR Headsets/Glasses 1968: Ivan Sutherland created the Sword of Damocles, the first AR headset. The Sword of Damocles was a large and heavy device that was suspended from the ceiling and connected to a computer. It was not practical for everyday use, but it was a groundbreaking development in the field of AR. 1975: Myron Krueger established the Videoplace, an artificial reality laboratory. The Videoplace featured a variety of AR and VR technologies, including a head-mounted display that was used to create immersive experiences for users. 1992: Thomas P. Caudell and David W. Mizell coin the term "augmented reality" in a paper published by Boeing. 1994: Louis Rosenberg created the Virtual Fixtures system, the first fully immersive AR training system. Virtual Fixtures was used to train US Air Force pilots to fly new aircraft. 1997: VPL Research releases the EyePhone, the first commercial AR headset. The EyePhone was a bulky and expensive device, but it was a significant step forward in the development of AR headsets for consumer use. 2007: Google Glass is announced. Google Glass was a lightweight and stylish AR headset that was expected to revolutionize the way people interact with the world around them. However, Google Glass was released to mixed reviews, and it was discontinued in 2015. 2012: Oculus VR releases the Oculus Rift, the first virtual reality headset for consumers. The Oculus Rift was a major success, and it helped to spark the current wave of interest in VR and AR. 2016: Microsoft releases the HoloLens, the first commercial mixed reality headset. The HoloLens allows users to interact with both the real world and digital objects simultaneously. 2017: Magic Leap releases the Magic Leap One, a mixed reality headset that uses light field technology to create realistic digital objects. 2019: HoloLens 2 is a mixed reality headset developed by Microsoft. It's the second generation of the HoloLens series and represents a significant advancement in augmented reality technology. 2020: Facebook (now Meta) releases the Oculus Quest 2, a standalone VR headset that does not require a PC or smartphone to operate. The Oculus Quest 2 is the most popular VR headset on the market, and it has helped to make VR more accessible to consumers. 2023: Meta's new AR headset, the Meta Quest 3, was announced at the Meta Connect 2023 event. The Meta Quest 3 is a high-end mixed reality headset that is designed for both consumers and businesses. Apple Vision Pro is a mixed reality headset developed by Apple Inc. It was announced on June 5, 2023, at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference, with availability scheduled for early 2024 in the United States and later that year internationally. Communication Protocols Used in AR (Augmented Reality) Headsets Communication protocols used in AR (Augmented Reality) headsets depend on the specific model and its connectivity options. Here's a list of common communication protocols and interfaces used in AR headsets: Bluetooth (BT): Bluetooth is a short-range wireless communication technology. AR headsets use Bluetooth to connect with various peripheral devices, including hand controllers, smartphones, and computers. This enables data transfer, synchronization, and control between the AR headset and these external devices. Wi-Fi (802.11x): Wi-Fi provides high-speed wireless internet connectivity to AR headsets. This allows access to cloud-based services, streaming content, over-the-air software updates, and remote AR applications. The choice of Wi-Fi standard (e.g., 802.11ac, 802.11ax) affects data transfer speed. USB (Universal Serial Bus): AR headsets feature USB ports for multiple purposes. USB can be used for charging the device, transferring data between the headset and a computer, or connecting to external devices such as external cameras, storage, or peripherals. 5G (in advanced models): While not yet standard, some advanced AR headsets can leverage 5G cellular networks for ultra-fast internet connectivity. This technology allows for real-time data streaming, remote computing, and high-quality AR experiences. Near Field Communication (NFC): NFC is used in AR headsets for short-range wireless data exchange with compatible devices. For instance, it can be used for secure pairing with smartphones or for mobile payments. Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID): RFID technology can be integrated into AR headsets for applications like asset tracking or inventory management. It allows the headset to identify and communicate with RFID-tagged objects or assets. Zigbee: Zigbee is a low-power, wireless communication protocol typically used for smart home applications. Some AR headsets incorporate Zigbee to enable control of IoT (Internet of Things) devices in a smart home environment, creating interactive and automated AR experiences. Infrared (IR): Infrared communication is often used for device pairing or data exchange over short distances. For AR headsets, it can facilitate communication between the headset and other peripherals, such as controllers or external sensors. HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface): HDMI is used for connecting AR headsets to external displays, like monitors or TVs. This enables mirroring or extending the AR content to a larger screen, useful for presentations or sharing experiences. Wireless Display (e.g., Miracast): This protocol allows wireless screen mirroring from the AR headset to compatible displays without the need for physical cables. It offers flexibility for sharing content or presentations. Ethernet (RJ45): Some enterprise or tethered AR headsets may include an Ethernet port for high-speed data transfer and network connectivity. This is common in professional or industrial AR applications. Optical Fiber (in some enterprise models): Optical fibers are used for high-speed data transmission in enterprise-grade AR headsets, particularly for data-intensive applications like augmented manufacturing or training simulations. Coaxial Cable (in some enterprise models): Coaxial cables offer high-bandwidth data transmission in specific industrial or professional AR headsets. This is important for maintaining data integrity and speed in complex applications. Voice Over IP (VoIP) Protocols: AR headsets may use VoIP protocols for voice and video calls. These protocols enable real-time communication, making AR headsets suitable for teleconferencing and collaboration applications. The specific communication protocols an AR headset employs can vary depending on its use case, intended applications, and connectivity options. These protocols enable data transfer, internet connectivity, and interaction with other devices, enhancing the functionality and versatility of AR headsets. Conclusion and Future Scope The global AR and VR headsets market size was estimated at USD 6.78 billion in 2022 and it is expected to hit around USD 142.5 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 35.6% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032. The growth of the AR headset market is being driven by a number of factors, including: Increasing adoption of AR technology across a variety of industries, including gaming, healthcare, manufacturing, and education. Growing demand for immersive and interactive experiences. Decreasing the cost of AR hardware and software. Increasing investment in AR headset research and development. The scope of future AR headsets is expected to expand significantly in the coming years. AR headsets are expected to become more affordable, accessible, and powerful. AR headsets are also expected to be used in a wider range of applications, including gaming, entertainment, healthcare, manufacturing, education, and retail. Here are some of the potential applications of AR headsets in the future: Gaming: AR headsets can create immersive and interactive gaming experiences. For example, AR headsets can be used to create games where players can interact with virtual objects in the real world, or where they can explore virtual worlds that are overlaid onto the real world. Education: AR headsets can be used to create interactive educational experiences that can help students learn more effectively. For example, AR headsets can be used to allow students to explore virtual models of historical landmarks, or to perform virtual experiments in science class. Healthcare: AR headsets can be used to improve the accuracy and efficiency of medical procedures. For example, AR headsets can be used to provide surgeons with real-time information about the patient's anatomy during surgery or to help doctors diagnose diseases more accurately. Manufacturing: AR headsets can be used to improve the efficiency and productivity of manufacturing processes. For example, AR headsets can be used to provide workers with step-by-step instructions on how to assemble products or to help them identify and troubleshoot problems. Retail: AR headsets can be used to improve the customer shopping experience. For example, AR headsets can be used to allow customers to try on clothes or furniture before they buy it, or to get more information about products. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apple_Vision_Pro https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsoft_HoloLens https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/hololens/buy https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/hololens/hardware#document-experiences https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/ar-headset#:~:text=(Augmented%20Reality%20headset)%20A%20head,eyes%20and%20are%20more%20immersive. https://www.techopedia.com/definition/23143/augmented-reality-headset-ar-headset https://www.precedenceresearch.com/ar-and-vr-headsets-market https://www.synopsys.com/glossary/what-is-augmented-reality-optics.html

In the ever-advancing realm of electronics, a groundbreaking transformation is underway, and it's all about gallium nitride (GaN). This innovative material is poised to unseat silicon as the cornerstone of chip manufacturing. Imagine chips that not only process data faster but also do so with remarkable efficiency, generating less heat and extending the life of your devices. GaN's superior electrical properties make it the new superhero of the semiconductor world. So, what's the big deal about GaN? Its remarkable potential lies in its ability to handle high voltage and high-frequency operations with unmatched precision, catapulting our gadgets and technologies into the next era of speed and power. Welcome to the GaN revolution, where smaller chips promise bigger and better things for our interconnected world. A MOSFET (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect transistor) turns ON when there is a current flow from the source to the drain. The channel creates a so-called gateway for the current. The gate voltage is used to establish a channel only after which the current flow can happen. Reducing the size of the transistor reduces the channel length over which an electron has to travel under the applied electric field which leads to Quantum Tunneling wherein the electron can cross the channel even in the absence of the field or no voltage at the gate terminal. Scientists and researchers are constantly working on new materials to complement if not replace Silicon as the building block of our current technology. One such latest find is Gallium Nitride (GaN). So What Makes GaN the Successor to Si? GaN is an ultra-wide band gap semiconductor with a band gap of 3.6eV, much higher than Si, which makes GaN suitable for higher voltages than Si can survive. GaN can conduct electrons 1000 times more efficiently than Si making GaN far more energy efficient than any Si predecessors. Because GaN transistors are tolerant to higher temperatures (~400 °C), they make ideal Power Amplifiers at microwave frequencies. Also, the need for large heat sinks is abridged, and more compact designs can be constructed using GaN. GaN manufactured devices are smaller than their Si counterparts, hence more GaN devices can be placed on a given chip area with an increase in the performance parameter. GaN has low resistance resulting in low conductance losses and draws less power. Because of fewer switching times and switching losses GaN has a future in switching applications. The major application of GaN can be in microwave radio-frequency applications such as microwave ovens as a microwave source. GaN isn’t that new. It has been widely used in Light-Emitting Diodes since the 90s. Violet LASER diodes make use of GaN substrate. GaN LEDs are also one of the few devices which can be used as a blue LASER device. Seminal Patents As soon as researchers found out the capabilities of gallium nitride, numerous patents were filed worldwide by various research institutes and companies concerning the fabrication of GaN based semiconductors and optical devices. Some of the earliest patents include: 1. Gallium nitride compound semiconductor light-emitting device (US 5,905,275) Toshiba and Kawasaki, Japan filed a patent explaining a method for fabricating a GaN LED using sapphire substrate as a support. Light emitting device includes formation of a buffer layer using materials having lattice constants close to GaN semiconductor compound (e.g. ZnO, GaN, AlN, GaAlN, LiAlO, LiGaO, MgAl-O, or SiC) on the sapphire substrate on which n and p layers of GaN are formed. The n- and p-type electrodes are formed such that they are on the top and bottom surfaces. Earlier LEDs using sapphire had electrodes on the same surface which posed a problem as it is difficult to form holes in the substrate leading to increased chip size. Such devices had high resistance in turn reducing light emission efficiency. This particular invention aimed at solving these problems of a decrease in the yield of devices and degradation of the device characteristics. The fabrication process involved forming a trench with 2 side wall surfaces which extends from the top to the bottom surface and are inclined to converge downwards. Further, depositing a buffer layer onto which gallium nitride compound semiconductor is deposited using MBE or MOCVD. The substrate from the bottom is then polished until the buffer layer is exposed, a portion of which is wet etched to expose the n-type electrode. A SiO2 protective layer is formed on the stacked gallium nitride compound semiconductor and a p-type electrode is formed by creating a contact hole. 2. Method of fabricating a gallium nitride based semiconductor device with an aluminum and nitrogen containing intermediate layer (US 5,389,571) This patent by Pioneer Electronics describes a method for fabricating a gallium nitride type semiconductor device comprising of a Silicon substrate, an intermediate layer consisting of a compound containing at least Aluminum and Nitrogen on a part or entirety of the single crystal substrate of Si. The method also involves the formation of at least one layer of a single crystal of (Ga1-x Al) 1-yInN. More particularly, the invention is a method to form on a silicon (Si) substrate a high-quality (Ga1-x Al) 1-yInN single crystal, a material for emitting or detecting light with a wavelength of 200 to 700 nm. The invention featured the use of AIN as an intermediate layer to grow the GaN layer on a Si substrate. The use of AIN can yield a single crystal of (Ga1-x Al) 1-yInN with very high quality and considerably excellent flatness as compared with the one obtained by direct growth of GaN on a Si substrate. The invention results in high current injection, thereby resulting in a gallium nitride type semiconductor device, particularly a semiconductor laser diode. 3. Aluminum gallium nitride laser (US 5,146,465) The invention aims at creating high purity single crystal gallium nitride layers over sapphire substrates, which will be used to fabricate a family of optical devices such as LASERs. It features the construction of a solid-state ultraviolet laser, thereby providing an efficient, compact, rugged and lightweight alternative to the existing ultraviolet laser devices. The invention uses the fact that adding materials like Zinc to GaN improves the material's electrical, optical and physical properties and points out how coating a sapphire substrate with aluminum nitride can improve the growth of GaN on the substrate using better lattice match between gallium nitride and aluminum nitride. Approximate Market Share of the Top GaN Chip Manufacturers Is the industry ready for GaN? GaN tech is new and is relatively expensive end when compared to Si devices owing to the increased manufacturing costs of GaN. We have been working with Si since the inception of semiconductors. We have devised all the manufacturing processes and logic keeping in mind the properties of Si, it is abundantly available, its processing is easy and to replace Si abruptly with GaN will affect how we deal with the electronics. Every new piece of tech needs to be studied and tested constantly for steady behavior so that it can be rolled out to customers. The manufacturing process for GaN is not perfect yet and can cause defects impairing its performance. However, some are trying to grow GaN on Si by making use of the existing technology. One way to tackle the price problem in the case of GaN is mass production but again there is no accurate method for the same as of now. Researchers are on a constant pursuit to find new materials which can cross ‘the limit’ and GaN is one of such materials. Enter Gallium Oxide, GaO has a much higher band gap than GaN and can become the needed change in power electronics by eliminating the need for bulky cooling systems and reducing power consumption. But it will take a lot of R&D needed change in power electronics by eliminating the need for bulky cooling systems and reducing power consumption. But it will take a lot of R&D before it can dominate the electronics arena. Still it’s a long way to go before we can see these new materials replace Si in its entirety. References Gallium nitride compound semiconductor light-emitting device. https://patents.google.com/patent/US5905275A/en?oq=US+5%2c905%2c275 Method of fabricating a gallium nitride based semiconductor device with an aluminum and nitrogen containing intermediate layer. https://patents.google.com/patent/US5389571A/en?oq=5%2c389%2c571 Aluminum gallium nitride laser. https://patents.google.com/patent/US5146465A/en?oq=5%2c146%2c465 https://epcco.com/epc/cn/GaN%E6%8A%80%E6%9C%AF%E6%9D%82%E8%B0%88/Post/13752/Gallium-Nitride-Brings-Sound-Quality-and-Efficiency-to-Class-D-Audio (Efficient Power Conversion Corporation) Gallium Oxide Could Challenge Si, GaN, and SiC in Power Applications. https://www.powerelectronics.com/alternative-energy/gallium-oxide-could-challenge-si-gan-and-sic-power-applications Gallium nitride https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gallium_nitride What is GaN? https://epc-co.com/epc/GalliumNitride/WhatisGaN.asp #emergingtech #semiconductors #patents

Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) is a technology that enables electric vehicles (EVs) to not only draw energy from the power grid for charging their batteries but also to send excess energy back to the grid when they are not being used. Essentially, it turns EVs into mobile energy storage units that can both consume and supply electricity to the grid, creating a two-way flow of energy. Electric vehicles are rapidly gaining popularity in the US after a decade of slow growth, and so does vehicle-to-grid technology. Willet Compton of Delaware University first introduced the concept of vehicle-to-grid technology, intending to provide monetary benefits to EV owners. V2G, abbreviated as Vehicle to Grid, is a technology that enables the flow of power back to the grid from the battery of the vehicle (car) as per the requirement of the electric grid. V2G is similar to regular smart charging. Smart charging enables us to control the charging of EVs such that the power requirement of EVs is satisfied. Vehicle to grid goes one step ahead of smart charging such that power can flow back to the grid from EV to balance the variation in energy production. What is Vehicle 2 Grid? Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) is a technology that enables electric vehicles (EVs) to not only draw energy from the power grid for charging their batteries but also to send excess energy back to the grid when they are not being used. Essentially, it turns EVs into mobile energy storage units that can both consume and supply electricity to the grid, creating a two-way flow of energy. Need for Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Firstly, today’s world is facing a drastic change in climate, and to mitigate the risks associated with climate change, ways of energy production in power plants are shifting rapidly from conventional to renewable sources. This rapid integration of renewable energy sources makes the electric grid less predictable and increases the complexity of balance in energy demand. Secondly, the number of automobiles on the planet will increase as long as the world's population continues to climb annually. The issue is that oil and gas won't be able to meet demand, leaving electricity and various forms of electric cars as the sole alternatives. According to estimates, there will be at least 140 million EVs globally by 2030. These batteries can be estimated as having an aggregated capacity of around 7 TWh, and most of the time EVs are standing idle in the parking, connected to chargers. Further, a pump station is the most common method to store energy nowadays, which is an expensive way as compared to EVs and requires significant investment. So, a common solution is Electricity through renewable energy as Electric vehicles are big batteries on wheels that can be used to store energy when produced in excess and can be discharged to the grid as a variable source during peak hours to tackle uncertainties created by renewable energy sources. Technological Remedy During times when parked vehicles are inactive, their batteries can operate as mobile energy storage systems. The amassed electrical power can be transmitted to the grid when there is a shortage of energy. Given that electric vehicles (EVs) are frequently linked to chargers while at a standstill, this configuration empowers them to offer assistance to the grid. Additionally, employing Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology facilitates increased use of renewable energy during peak hours. Through this approach, utilities can decrease their dependence on costly and less efficient fossil fuel power generation sources when demand is at its zenith. Architecture: Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) In the architecture of vehicle-to-grid technology, there are three major components as Grid Operator, Aggregator, and Driver Interface. In the V2G ecosystem where tens of thousands of vehicles are connected to the grid performing ancillary services. It is certain that the grid operator will want to have control over the aggregate capacity of electric vehicles rather than dealing with individual vehicles. So, the grid operator will interact with an aggregator to deal with a bulk of electric vehicles. To the grid operator, the aggregator will appear as a large source of rapidly-controllable generation or load – a good source of regulation capacity. The aggregator will have a contract with the grid operator through day-ahead and hour-ahead markets to provide regulation capacity. The grid operator and aggregator would communicate over a secure data link of the same type used to communicate with existing sources of regulation. The aggregator would receive regulation commands from the grid operator and allocates the required regulation to the connected vehicles. Aggregators would keep track of vehicles that are connected and where they were located (with GPS). The aggregator would also serve as the interface for each individual driver. A web server would allow drivers to log in to set up default profiles, check the status of their vehicles, or monitor the value created. Further, location information is needed to determine which zone or control area a vehicle is currently connected to. Aggregator In a V2G system, the role of the aggregator is to be the middleman between the grid operator and thousands of vehicles connected to the grid. The aggregator needs to know the default usage profiles of all the vehicles in order to determine a projected aggregate vehicle availability profile. Default usage profiles are entered by each driver into the aggregator’s database through a web interface. Driver Interface A vehicle that is a participant in a V2G system would have a web-based home page to allow the vehicle driver to set up various default parameters and track the status of the vehicle. Applications of V2G Peak load leveling The V2G concept allows vehicles to provide power to help in balancing loads by "valley filling"(charging at night when demand is low) and "peak shaving" (sending power back to the grid when demand is high). Peak load leveling can let utilities offer regulation services (keeping voltage and frequency stable) and spinning reserves (meeting sudden demands for power) in novel ways. Peak power Typically, power plants that can be turned on for brief periods of time produce peak power. The required period for peaking units can be 3-5 hours per day, and V2G can give peak power, which may be suitable for this purpose. Electric vehicles are able to supply power during peak hours while consuming it during off-peak hours. This reduces the energy demand balance gap in the power networks. Peak shaving has additional benefits, such as lowering transmission congestion, lowering line losses, deferring transmission investments, and lowering the stressed operating of an electrical system. Spinning Reserves The term "spinning reserves" refers to the additional generating capacity that, at the grid operator's request, can quickly supply electricity to the operator, often within 10 minutes. The generator gets compensated with additional funds for the energy delivered in case of an event when the spinning reserve is used. So, the use of an EV as a spinning reserve could offer the power system a flexible, controllable generator, which can act on instant request without prior planning. Frequency Regulation services Regulation is a real-time control of frequency and is regulated by matching generation to load demand. It must be under direct real-time control of the grid operator, with the generating unit capable of receiving signals from the grid operator’s computer and responding within a minute or less by increasing or decreasing the output of the generator, but this sudden change in the output of generator increases the operating cost of utilities. This additional energy required for frequency matching can be borrowed from EVs since they can power in a short period. Ancillary Services Ancillary services support the electricity transfer from the production to the loads with the aim of assuring power system reliability and enhancing power quality. The extended service of demand will raise the yearly load payment, despite the fact that these services can be linked to an improvement in social welfare. EVs can be used to control frequency either as a power source or as a load as EV has the ability to offer auxiliary services that result in a more stable operation of the power system and a decrease in the operation of protection relays. Benefits of V2G V2G can help the grid add more clean renewable power and offer new opportunities for EVs to participate in energy-saving strategies. V2G will create new business models of resiliency, grid stability, assistance in natural disasters, and new economic opportunities. V2G can save energy costs for all sectors, but especially for individuals and governmental organizations. V2G can improve the quality of life by generating local jobs. Challenges to V2G The adoption of V2G is still in its nascent stages due to various challenges: battery technology, power quality issues, technical limitations, lack of business models, commercial feasibility, and regulatory issues. Battery technology and the higher initial expenditures incurred compared to ICE vehicles provide the biggest obstacles to a V2G shift. Although V2G systems have numerous advantages, adding more EVs may affect the dynamics and performance of the power distribution system due to the overloading of transformers, cables, and feeders. As a result, efficiency is decreased, harmonics and voltage deviations are produced, and additional generator starts may be necessary. Massive adoption of electric vehicles can cut CO2 emissions dramatically. On the other hand, integrating renewable energy sources into the current conventional grid results in significant technical grid limitations, particularly problems with power quality. There is currently no such system in place to integrate EVs into traditional power grids without compromising power quality and simultaneously reducing uncertainty. Lack of Bi-directional EV charging business models which provide discounts on energy transactions i.e., peak/non-peak charging, and customer loyalty programs. Patent Filing Trend Electric car sales reached a record high in 2021, despite supply chain bottlenecks and the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Sales increased by almost double to 6.6 million compared to 2020, bringing the overall number of electric vehicles on the road to 16.5 million. In 2021, China sold the most electric vehicles (EVs), with 3.3 million cars, followed by Europe, with 2.3 million, and the United States, with 630,000. The patent data in this article shows information related to Vehicle to Grid, including, the patent filing trend across the globe and the top-rated assignees. From the number of applications filed each year across the world, it is exciting to know that the patent filing trend jumped in the year 2019-2021. However, in upcoming times, it is expected to grow as research and development in the field are still ongoing. Apart from the top companies, many other companies are also indulged in the research process, and various projects are in the implementation phase including, E-mobility Lab, E-FLEX, Denmark V2G, Bus2Grid, AirQon, etc. Also, between 2015 and 2020, there was an exponential rise in the number of patent applications. However, due to the pandemic, there is a delay in filing and granting patents and a drastic fall in patent applications after 2020. Henceforth, the trend in patent filing is expected to rise to a new level in the upcoming years. The top assignees to file patents are from China, the US, Korea, and Japan. In terms of investment in infrastructure for EVs, China continues to maintain its lead in the number of publicly available chargers, accounting for about 85% of fast chargers and 55% of slow chargers worldwide. According to the International energy association (IEA), China deployed 680,000 slow chargers in 2021, followed by Europe (over 300,000 installations) and the United States (92,000 installations). Based on the above data on the charging infrastructure of EVs from IEA, China, the European Union, and the United States are key players in the EV market and are heavily investing in building infrastructure for EVs. Future Scope One of the few potential flexibility assets, V2G technology, will support grids, assist in reducing the need for peak power plant usage, and at the same time provide financial benefits to EV consumers. V2G extends the promise of electric vehicles, both environmentally and commercially. It makes the environment cleaner and leaves a smaller carbon imprint. The mobility services sector may develop new revenue streams, reduce infrastructure investment, and lower TCO. It’s just a matter of time before V2G becomes a reality. References M. El Chehaly, O. Saadeh, C. Martinez and G. Joos, "Advantages and applications of vehicle to grid mode of operation in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles," 2009 IEEE Electrical Power & Energy Conference (EPEC), 2009, pp. 1-6, doi: 10.1109/EPEC.2009.5420958. S. Iqbal et al., "Aggregated Electric Vehicle-to-Grid for Primary Frequency Control in a Microgrid- A Review," 2018 IEEE 2nd International Electrical and Energy Conference (CIEEC), 2018, pp. 563-568, doi: 10.1109/CIEEC.2018.8745952. https://www.iea.org/reports/electric-vehicles https://blog.forumias.com/v2g-vehicle-to-grid-technology-and-its-future/ https://driivz.com/blog/v2g-smart-energy-management https://www.virta.global/vehicle-to-grid-v2g https://www1.udel.edu/V2G/docs/V2G-Demo-Brooks-02-R5.pdf

Any company or individual can forfeit intellectual property rights in a patent by filing a disclaimer under Title 35, section 253 of the U.S. Code, which states “Whenever, without any deceptive intention, a claim of a patent is invalid the remaining claims shall not thereby be rendered invalid. A patentee, whether of the whole or any sectional interest therein, may, on payment of the fee required by law, make disclaimer of any complete claim, stating therein the extent of his interest in such patent. Such disclaimer shall be in writing and recorded in the Patent and Trademark Office, and it shall thereafter be considered as part of the original patent to the extent of the interest possessed by the disclaimant and by those claiming under him. In like manner any patentee or applicant may disclaim or dedicate to the public the entire term, or any terminal part of the term, of the patent granted or to be granted.” Patent Donation Patent donations are particularly regular in the US and depend on patent owners donating patents to non-profit organizations such as universities and other research institutions. For the patent donation, the original patent owner transfers the whole patent right including all commitments to the receiving party. By donating a patent, the original patent owner can gain tax benefits and cost reductions, such as reducing yearly patent maintenance expenses. At the receiver end, the donated patent is integrated into the research and development process with the aim of generating a new product. Thus, the patent donation represents a potential source of income and both sides can benefit from strengthening their research network through collaboration during the patent donation process. Therefore, the innovation process can be accelerated for further developments in technology. You might remember when Tesla stated, “Tesla will not initiate patent lawsuits against anyone who, in good faith, wants to use our technology.” All that has changed is that Tesla has invited their competitors to the table under their own terms. So rather than giving the patents away Tesla is in fact moving towards a license model. It is using the patents to steer the market- in this case inviting licensees into the fold to encourage more widespread R&D in electric vehicles, which benefits Tesla's long-term strategy. When and Why to Donate Patents? What are the Motives? There are four motives for patent releases. On one side, these motives contrast dependent on financial and non-financial motives. One can contend that any firm has financial motives in its activities. A firm that generates goodwill for instance has no direct money related intention. In any case, the goodwill is generated to determine a reputation which progressively may cause a new business. On the contrary side, we separate these motives with respect to the kind of patent. For example, donating patents, and moving the entire lawful right to an outsider was only applied for patents that had no more capacity for the firm and didn't accommodate their business. This sort of patent is named non-core patent. But firms also made patents accessible to others that were still being used inside the firm. These patents are referred to as core patents. I. Earning Profits Often firms release chosen core patents driven by financial motives, i.e. profiting from network exercises. This open source system is found in the software business where firms have become aware of the capability of expertise and thoughts of networks to improve items and hence secure a prevailing business sector position and lift benefits. The software industry strategizes in the following ways- Selling complementary services such as installation, training, maintenance, consultancy, and certifications is a ruling strategy of firms to meet the appropriate returns through OSS exercises. By utilizing the community to internal development endeavours, firms can bring down inside R&D costs. Through the open source community, firms can take advantage of the technology innovation side through comments, ideas, and further improvements which help firms to upgrade their technologies. In 2005, IBM made 500 valuable patents freely available to the open-source software community with the objective of stimulating the flow of innovation. In the 1970s Dolby decided to free-license patents which covered its noise-reduction technology through releasing pre-recorded cassettes encoded with this technology. Instead of gaining licensing fees directly from the patents, Dolby successfully profited from the lock-in effect of its noise-reduction technology and earned its profits through the sales of the tape players using this technology. II. Cutting Expenses Firms often release non-core patents driven by financial motives as well. For example, firms give away outdated patents that no longer fit their business to colleges, other research establishments, and non-profit associations with the motive of lessening their expenses. These expenses incorporate maintenance charges, which must be paid to the patent offices to keep up the patent, and any liabilities appended to the patent, for instance, costs for enforcement in case of infringement. Besides, at least in the US, firms can profit by tax deductions. Are there any limits on the tax benefits through donations? Section 170 of the IRS Code differentiates between corporations and individuals. A corporation may take a tax deduction for a donation up to 10 percent of its net taxable income. For individuals, that deduction can’t exceed 50 percent of the taxable income base. In the 1990s, Shell shifted its core business to petrochemicals and gave up its specialty chemicals technologies. Against this backdrop, Shell donated the patents covering its Carilon and Carilite technologies, which were considered to be applicable across a wide spectrum of industries, to the non-profit research institute SRI which incorporated the patents into its own polymer technology portfolio. III. Expanding Innovation Firms may also release non-core patents driven by non-financial motives. For example, a firm may give away patents to colleges or other research foundations in order to trigger innovation exercises and open up new fields of business. This way firms avoid throwing away potentially valuable technologies and speed up the innovation process for further enhancements. Boeing developed a material they used in aircraft antenna units but due to its bio-compatibility, strength, and density, it also showed remarkable potential for being used in the medical sector to replace bones in humans. Since the medical area is very different from Boeing’s business and the firm also lacks respective know-how, Boeing donated the patent covering these applications to the University of Pennsylvania, where the technology was further developed. IV. Availing and Accessing Technology Rarely, but surely, firms give away core patents to outsiders as well. The thought process of this conduct is mostly a mix of generating goodwill, serving society, and accessing third party patents via patent pools. Generating goodwill and serving society will help the firm establish its reputation and receive social authenticity. Accessing third party patents via patent pools will help their R&D team to broaden the scope of their research in their technology. What are the patent pools? Patent pools are coalitions in which patent owners license at least one patent on a royalty-free basis to an organization that manages the patent pool. Through this, the licensed patents can be accessed by the other members of the pool and the non-member research institutions. Consequently, the patent owners can access all the patents inside the pool, can start new research and business coordinated efforts, decrease development expenses and risk through shared endeavors, and generate goodwill by serving society. Below are examples of patent pools. Eco-Patent Commons - The Eco-Patent Commons patent pool was initiated in January 2008 by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). It provides an online repository of patents which covers environment friendly technologies. Firms can benefit from the creative results of this exploration joint effort and gain recognition through their contribution. In 2010 Hewlett Packard pledged three patents on a battery recycling technology to the Eco Patent Commons patent pool. Although the technology had the potential to generate earnings for Hewlett Packard, the company made the patents available without any purchase or royalty obligations in order to support the green technology initiative of the Eco Patent Commons. Medicines Patent Pool - The Medicines Patent Pool was established in 2010 by UNITAID to improve the treatment of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. The main objective of the pool is public health instead of commercial interests. Conclusion Firms taking part in Open Source Community are driven by financial and technological reasons and to a lesser extent, social reasons. Conversely, we find that social reasons assume a significant job in releasing patents to the public. Particularly the instances of green technologies and the medical sector show that firms want to react to their social obligation. Non-commercial patent pools appear to be a platform that is acknowledged by numerous organizations for the free release of patents without direct financial advantages. Considering financial motives, patents are donated to lessen costs through sparing R&D endeavors and cost reduction in terms of maintenance fees. In terms of technological reasons, accelerating the innovation process and benefiting from networks are primary intentions. Likewise, giving or making patents accessible to the public, is recognized by the organizations as a strategic approach in lieu of discarding significant technology that doesn't fit the organizations' present market. All in all, releasing patents by making them accessible to partners, clients, customers, and suppliers helps firms to build up a sustainable innovation ecosystem that is bound to bring profits in the long term. #patents #technology #Tesla #Boeing #Shell #HewlettPackard

Biometric authentication, the process of identifying individuals through their unique physical or behavioral traits, offers high security and convenience. This technology relies on biological features like fingerprints, facial recognition, voice, or behavioral patterns to verify identity, replacing traditional methods such as passwords or PINs. Biometrics has ancient roots, with fingerprints and palm prints used historically for identification. Modern technology has expanded the possibilities for biometric systems, ensuring robust security. Biometric traits are highly individual and tough to replicate, enhancing protection against fraud and identity theft. While convenient, concerns include privacy issues and potential inaccuracies. Despite these concerns, biometric authentication is rapidly gaining popularity in various applications, from smartphone access to healthcare security. This article delves into the history, techniques, applications, and challenges of biometric authentication. History of Biometric Authentication Biometric authentication has a long history, dating back to ancient times. The Chinese used fingerprints as signatures in business transactions as early as the 14th century. The Babylonians used fingerprints to sign legal documents in 700 BC. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the scientific study of fingerprints began. In 1858, Sir William James Herschel, a British administrator in India, started using fingerprints as a means of identifying prisoners. He found that no two fingerprints were identical and began collecting prints as a means of identifying prisoners. Herschel's work was followed by that of Francis Galton, a British anthropologist and cousin of Charles Darwin, who developed the first classification system for fingerprints. In the early 20th century, fingerprinting became a standard method of identification in law enforcement. In the United States, the FBI began using fingerprinting in the 1920s, and it remains a key component of criminal investigations to this day. In the 1960s, the use of biometric authentication expanded beyond fingerprinting with the development of facial recognition technology. Woody Bledsoe, Helen Chan Wolf, and Charles Bisson developed a system that used computer algorithms to match facial features. However, the technology was still in its infancy and required high-quality images and controlled lighting conditions to function effectively. The 1970s saw the development of voice recognition technology, which used acoustic characteristics to identify individuals. The technology was used in limited applications such as telephone banking, but it was not widely adopted due to limitations in accuracy and ease of use. The 1980s saw the introduction of hand geometry scanners, which measured the shape and size of a person's hand. The technology was primarily used in access control applications and was widely adopted in industries such as banking and healthcare. In the 1990s, iris recognition technology was developed. The technology uses the unique patterns in a person's iris to identify them. Iris recognition was more accurate than other biometric technologies, but it required expensive hardware and was not widely adopted. The 2000s saw the development of facial recognition technology that could work with lower-quality images and in uncontrolled environments. This led to widespread adoption of the technology for security and surveillance applications. The development of smartphones with built-in fingerprint sensors in the mid-2010s led to a surge in the adoption of biometric authentication for mobile devices. Today, facial recognition and fingerprint authentication are commonly used for mobile payments and device unlocking. In recent years, biometric authentication has expanded beyond physical characteristics to include behavioral characteristics such as typing patterns and mouse movements. These technologies, known as behavioral biometrics, are being used for fraud detection and authentication in online banking and e-commerce. Process of Biometric Authentication Biometric authentication is a security process that uses unique physical or behavioral characteristics of an individual to verify their identity. It involves the use of various technologies to capture and analyze these unique features and then match them against a pre-registered set of data. The process of biometric authentication involves the following steps: Enrollment: In this step, the individual's biometric data is collected and stored in a secure database. This can be done using various methods, such as fingerprint scanning, iris scanning, facial recognition, voice recognition, or even behavioral characteristics like typing patterns or gait. Authentication: When the individual tries to access a system or facility that requires biometric authentication, the system prompts the user to provide their biometric data. The system then captures the data and compares it with the stored data in the database. Matching: In this step, the system compares the captured biometric data with the stored data to determine if there is a match. If the system finds a match, the user is granted access. If not, the user is denied access. Biometric authentication is one of the most secure forms of authentication, as it is difficult to replicate or fake the unique features of an individual. However, it is not foolproof and can still be subject to errors and vulnerabilities. Therefore, it is usually combined with other forms of authentication, such as passwords or security tokens, to increase the overall security of a system. Types of Biometric Authentication Biometric authentication is a security method that uses unique physical or behavioral characteristics of an individual to verify their identity. The most used biometric authentication techniques include: Fingerprint Recognition: This is one of the oldest and most widely used biometric authentication techniques. It involves scanning an individual's fingerprint and comparing it to a pre-existing database of fingerprints. Fingerprint recognition is highly accurate, quick and relatively inexpensive. Fingerprint sensors are now commonly integrated into mobile devices and laptops. Facial Recognition: Facial recognition involves scanning an individual's face using a camera and comparing it to a pre-existing database of facial images. This technique can be used in both controlled and uncontrolled environments and can be integrated into surveillance systems. However, facial recognition has been criticized for its potential to be biased, and inaccurate and its impact on privacy. Iris Recognition: Iris recognition involves scanning the unique pattern of an individual's iris using a camera and comparing it to a pre-existing database of iris images. This technique is highly accurate, non-intrusive and can work in low-light conditions. Iris recognition is commonly used in access control systems. Voice Recognition: Voice recognition involves analyzing the unique characteristics of an individual's voice, such as tone, pitch, and rhythm, to verify their identity. This technique is commonly used in telephone banking and customer service applications. Hand Geometry Recognition: Hand geometry recognition involves scanning an individual's hand and measuring the shape and size of their hand, fingers, and knuckles. This technique is commonly used in access control systems in industries such as healthcare and banking. Behavioral Biometrics: Behavioral biometrics involves analyzing an individual's unique behavioral characteristics, such as typing patterns, mouse movements, and the way they interact with a device, to verify their identity. This technique is commonly used for fraud detection in online banking and e-commerce. Vein Recognition: Vein recognition involves scanning the unique vein patterns in an individual's hand or face using near-infrared light and comparing them to a pre-existing database of vein patterns. This technique is highly accurate and non-intrusive and is commonly used in high-security applications. DNA Recognition: DNA recognition involves analyzing an individual's DNA to verify their identity. This technique is highly accurate but is typically only used in high-security applications due to the complexity and cost of the process. Applications Biometric authentication has been adopted in various industries and applications to enhance security, improve convenience, and streamline processes. The common applications of biometric authentication include: Access Control: Biometric authentication is commonly used in access control systems to restrict access to sensitive areas such as data centers, laboratories, and restricted areas within a facility. Access can be granted only to authorized personnel with biometric credentials such as fingerprints, iris patterns, or facial recognition. Time and Attendance Tracking: Biometric authentication can be used to record employee attendance and work hours, eliminating the need for manual timekeeping systems that are prone to errors and time theft. This can be done using biometric devices that scan employee fingerprints or facial recognition. Mobile Device Security: Biometric authentication is used to secure mobile devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets. This allows users to unlock their devices with their fingerprints or facial recognition, eliminating the need for passwords that are easily forgotten or stolen. Financial Transactions: Biometric authentication is being adopted in financial institutions to enhance security and prevent fraud. For instance, banks can use fingerprints, voice recognition, or facial recognition to authenticate customers for transactions such as online banking and mobile payments. Border Control: Biometric authentication is used in border control to enhance security and improve the speed of passenger processing. Biometric data such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris patterns can be collected and matched to a database of travelers' information to verify their identity. Healthcare: Biometric authentication is used in healthcare to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to patients' medical records and medication. Biometric authentication can be used to limit access to certain areas within a hospital or to track medication administration. Law Enforcement: Biometric authentication is used in law enforcement to identify suspects and to solve crimes. Law enforcement agencies use fingerprint and facial recognition technology to match crime scene evidence to a suspect. Voter registration: Biometric authentication is being adopted in some countries to prevent voter fraud by verifying the identity of voters during registration and voting. Biometric data such as fingerprints or facial recognition can be used to authenticate voters. Patent Analysis The patent data in this article shows information related to biometric authentication, including the top-rated assignees, and patent filing trends across the globe and in recent years. It has been noticed that the bigger players in this field are Fujitsu, followed by NEC and Apple. Other top companies that contribute to this technology are Samsung, Hitachi, Sony and Canon. Fujitsu is heavily involved in biometric authentication systems. They have been developing biometric technology for many years, and their expertise in this area is well-respected. Fujitsu has developed a number of biometric authentication systems which include: PalmSecure, PalmEntry, Face Recognition and Voice Biometrics. Fujitsu has been at the forefront of developing biometric authentication systems, and their technology is widely used in a variety of industries, including finance, healthcare, and government. As a result, Fujitsu has a large portfolio of patent filings in the area of Biometric Authentication. The graph shown below represents the number of applications related to the Biometric Authentication systems filed in the last ten years. It is noticed that the number of patent filings has increased significantly in 2020. This is due to the growing demand for security systems in the same year. With the advent of cyber security threats, the need for more efficient biometric authentication systems has increased, leading to an increase in research and development in this area. However, the dip in the number of patent filings in biometric authentication systems after 2020 may be due to several reasons. There could be several reasons why there might have been a decline in patent filings related to biometric authentication. One possible reason is that some biometric authentication technologies have become more standardized, which means that fewer companies are developing unique solutions that are eligible for patent protection. Another reason could be that the technology has matured and the rate of innovation has slowed down, leading to fewer new developments and patents being filed. The decline in patent filing related to biometric authentication may not necessarily indicate a decline in innovation or investment in the field, but rather a shift in focus towards other areas of biometrics or cybersecurity. Conclusion In conclusion, biometric authentication is a technology that relies on unique physical or behavioral characteristics to identify individuals. It offers a high level of security and convenience but also raises concerns about privacy and accuracy. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that biometric authentication will become even more prevalent in our daily lives, and it will be important to continue to address these concerns to ensure that it is used in a responsible and ethical manner. References 1. https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/definition/biometric-authentication 2. https://heimdalsecurity.com/blog/biometric-authentication/ 3. https://clockit.io/2016/08/05/historical-timeline-biometric-authentication/ 4. https://towardsdatascience.com/biometric-authentication-methods-61c96666883a 5. https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/65920 6. https://www.nap.edu/read/12720/chapter/2

Introduction E-cigarette was invented in 2003 by Chinese pharmacist Hon Lik, who initially developed the device to serve as an alternative to conventional smoking. Despite their widespread popularity, there remains limited knowledge about their health implications. Opinions regarding the potential risks and benefits of e-cigarette use vary significantly among the public, e-cigarette users, healthcare providers, and the public health community. One area of debate is whether e-cigarette use entails a reduced risk of addiction in comparison to conventional tobacco cigarettes. Additionally, questions persist about the potential dangers of e-cigarettes, stemming from the exposure to potentially harmful substances in their emissions, particularly among individuals who are new to tobacco use, such as adolescents and young adults. Furthermore, fears have been made that e-cigarettes will encourage young people to start smoking traditional tobacco cigarettes. According to the report by CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), published on June 23, 2023, between April 2022 and March 2023, there were 7,043 reported cases of e-cigarette exposure, a 32% increase. Most cases (87.8%) involved children under 5 years old. Inhalation (61.0%) and ingestion (40.0%) were the primary routes of exposure. Hospital admission was necessary in 0.6% of cases, with one reported death (suspected suicide). Roughly half of the cases had minor effects or no reported effects, and follow-up information was missing in 50.9% of cases. What is an E-Cigarette? E-cigarettes, or electronic cigarettes, are electronic devices that simulate the act of smoking by vaporizing a liquid solution. E-cigarettes consist of a battery, a heating element (atomizer or coil), and a reservoir to hold the liquid, known as e-liquid or vape juice. E-cigarettes can come in various shapes, sizes, and designs. Some resemble traditional cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, while others resemble pens, USB sticks, or other everyday objects. The e-liquid used in e-cigarettes typically consists of a mixture of propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin, flavorings, and nicotine. However, nicotine-free e-liquids are also available for those who do not wish to consume nicotine. How Does E-Cigarette Work? E-cigarettes, also known as electronic cigarettes or vaping devices, consist of several key components that work together to deliver a vaporized aerosol to users. These components include: Battery: The battery powers the e-cigarette device. It is usually rechargeable and provides the energy needed to heat the e-liquid. Atomizer: The atomizer is responsible for heating the e-liquid and turning it into vapor. It contains a heating coil that heats up when the battery is activated. E-Liquid (E-Juice): This is the liquid solution that is vaporized to create the aerosol. E-liquids typically consist of a mixture of propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavorings, and nicotine (optional). Cartridge or Tank: The cartridge or tank holds the e-liquid and is attached to the atomizer. Some devices use disposable cartridges, while others have refillable tanks. Heating Coil: The heating coil is part of the atomizer and is responsible for vaporizing the e-liquid. When the coil is heated, it turns the e-liquid into vapor. Airflow Sensor or Button: Some e-cigarettes have an automatic airflow sensor that detects when the user takes a puff and activates the heating coil. Others have a button that the user presses to activate the device. Mouthpiece: The mouthpiece is where the user inhales the vapor. It is usually made of plastic or metal and is attached to the top of the e-cigarette. LED Indicator: Many e-cigarettes have an LED light that simulates the glow of a burning cigarette. The light may also indicate the device's status, such as battery level or activation. Control Circuitry: In more advanced devices, control circuitry regulates various functions of the e-cigarette, such as temperature control and power output. These components work together to create the vapor that users inhale, mimicking the experience of smoking traditional cigarettes without the combustion and tobacco-related chemicals. Image Source: https://sites.psu.edu/mackenziemoon/2015/01/ Evolution of E-Cigarette Market Share by Brand in the U.S. E-Cigarette Sales (2022) In 2022, Juul secured its position as the dominant e-cigarette brand in the United States, commanding a substantial 37 percent share of the market. Following closely was Vuse, holding a notable 30 percent market share. Notably, Vuse is produced by Reynolds American Tobacco, while Juul burst onto the U.S. e-cigarette scene in 2015 as a startup under Pax Labs. However, it rapidly outpaced long-standing tobacco industry giants to claim the top spot. In 2018, Altria Group acquired a significant 35 percent stake in Juul, further solidifying its market presence. The rise of electronic cigarettes in the U.S. can be attributed to their emergence as an alternative to traditional combustible tobacco products, particularly as a growing number of smokers sought ways to quit. Notably, the sales of conventional cigarettes have been consistently dwindling over the years. This shift towards smokeless alternatives led to electronic cigarette sales reaching an impressive 3.8 billion U.S. dollars in 2018 across various retail channels in the United States. Image Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1097004/e-cigarette-market-share-us-by-brand/ Patent Analysis While China has emerged as a leader in the number of patents in the e-cigarette market, the United States also holds a significant presence in this field. Here is a comparison of the two countries: Patent Quantity: China has a higher number of patents in the e-cigarette market compared to the United States. Chinese companies have been actively filing patents to protect their innovations, taking advantage of the country's manufacturing capabilities and market demand. Technological Innovation: Both China and the United States have contributed to technological advancements in the e-cigarette industry. Chinese companies have focused on hardware development, manufacturing efficiency, and cost-effective production. In contrast, American companies have emphasized product design, user experience, and advanced vaping technologies. Market Influence: China's dominance in e-cigarette manufacturing and exporting has given it a significant market influence. Chinese-made e-cigarettes are widely distributed globally, including in the United States. However, the United States has a strong domestic market and has been a hub for e-cigarette innovation and the development of new vaping technologies. Top Patent Assignees Huizhou Kimree Technology Co., Ltd. is a Chinese company that designs and manufactures e-cigarettes and related products. The company was founded in 2006 and is headquartered in Huizhou, Guangdong, China. Kimree has a global presence with offices and distributors in the United States, Europe, and Asia. It does not have a significant market share in the global e-cigarette market. According to the market research firm Euromonitor International, the company's market share is estimated to be around 1%. The company has the greatest number of patents in the e-cigarette industry because the company is very focused on research and development. Kimree has filed for over 1,500 patents in the e-cigarette space, more than any other company in the world. Kimree's patents cover a wide range of e-cigarette technologies, including: Vaporizers: Kimree has patented a number of different vaporizer designs, including pod systems, disposables, and mods. Nicotine Cartridges: Kimree has patented a number of different nicotine cartridges, including cartridges with different nicotine strengths and flavors. E-liquids: Kimree has patented a number of different e-liquid formulations, including e-liquids with different nicotine strengths and flavors. Other E-cigarette Components: Kimree has also patented a number of other e-cigarette components, such as batteries, chargers, and mouthpieces. The prevalence of e-cigarette patent holder companies in China can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, China has a well-established manufacturing ecosystem with advanced technology and resources, making it conducive for producing e-cigarettes. This has led to the emergence of numerous Chinese manufacturers specializing in e-cigarettes. Additionally, China's relatively lenient intellectual property protection policies and lower patent registration costs might encourage these companies to secure patents. However, having a large number of patents does not necessarily translate to a higher market share. Market dynamics, consumer preferences, marketing strategies, and regulatory environments can all influence a company's market position. Therefore, while these companies hold significant patents, various factors could contribute to their relatively smaller market share compared to other players. Patent Filing Trend for the Last 10 Years The decline in e-cigarette patent filings post-2019 can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, increased regulatory uncertainty, especially in the United States and other regions, led to stricter rules and deterred companies from investing in new e-cigarette technologies. Secondly, the market saw saturation and reduced innovation as numerous patents covered various aspects of e-cigarette tech. The dominance of pod-based systems, like JUUL, further consolidated the market. Public health concerns, including vaping-related lung injuries, and economic factors also influenced companies' patent strategies, impacting the industry's patent landscape. Conclusion E-cigarettes have become a popular and diverse product category, delivering nicotine and additives through inhaled aerosol. Concerns arise regarding their use among youth and young adults, surpassing traditional cigarettes in popularity. E-cigarette use is linked to other tobacco product use and poses risks to youth, pregnant women, and fetuses. The aerosol contains harmful constituents, including nicotine, which can lead to addiction and harm the developing adolescent brain. E-cigarette marketing often targets youth with appealing flavors and various media channels. Actions at different levels, such as implementing smoke-free policies, restricting youth access, regulating marketing, and educational initiatives, can address youth and young adult e-cigarette use. References https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7225a5.htm https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Structure-of-the-electronic-cigarette-The-electronic-cigarette-is-a-battery-powered_fig1_221783238 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/216550#recent_research https://www.podsalt.com/blog/post/how-do-e-cigarettes-work-all-you-need-to-know https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/about-e-cigarettes.html#:~:text=E%2Dcigarettes%20produce%20an%20aerosol,this%20aerosol%20into%20their%20lungs. https://www.lung.org/quit-smoking/e-cigarettes-vaping/whats-in-an-e-cigarette https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/everyday-innovations/electronic-cigarette.htm https://dailygazette.com/2016/03/06/exploding-e-cigarettes-send-users-hospital-gruesom/ https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/how-does-an-e-cig-work/ https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/everyday-innovations/electronic-cigarette.htm https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/pdfs/ecigarette-or-vaping-products-visual-dictionary-508.pdf https://ecigsadvice.co.uk/different-types-of-e-cigs/ https://www.ukecigstore.com/pages/type-of-ecigarettes https://www.fda.gov/tobacco-products/retail-sales-tobacco-products/tobacco-21 https://www.fda.gov/news-events/fda-voices/how-fda-regulating-e-cigarettes https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(20)30063-3/fulltext

Apple conducted its annual September event on September 12, 2023, during which it unveiled an array of fresh products. This lineup includes the iPhone 15, Apple Watch Series 9, and the second-generation Apple Watch Ultra. The standout star of the event was undeniably the iPhone 15, boasting noteworthy features like a new USB-C port, a formidable 48MP main camera, and the A16 Bionic chip. Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Series 9 introduces a novel blood temperature sensor, while the second-generation Apple Watch Ultra is a rugged smartwatch tailored for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to these announcements, Apple also introduced new offerings such as the AirPods Pro, a fresh iteration of the HomePod mini, and an updated Apple TV 4K. The iPhone 15 Upgrades In a groundbreaking move, Apple has unveiled an iPhone clad in titanium—a premium grade of the metal that is also used in space alloys. This titanium variant combines inherent strength with an astonishingly lightweight design. It's a subtle yet impactful feature that is sure to leave users thoroughly impressed. The device also showcases a refined brushed texture on the back and contoured edges, ensuring a comfortable and secure grip. To truly appreciate the strides made, a side-by-side comparison with its predecessors becomes all the more revealing. Image credits: https://www.apple.com/in/iphone-15-pro/ Beneath the surface, the iPhone 15 lineup offers an extensive array of features and enhancements that take the experience to the next level, especially for individuals with demanding creative needs. With the cutting-edge A17 Pro chip at its core, the iPhone 15 Pro delivers unparalleled performance improvements, including faster speeds, quicker loading times, and enhanced visual graphics. Complemented by the freshly launched iOS 17, an array of exciting features and updates, such as Name Drop, iMessage stickers, and Always On Display, are readily accessible, enhancing your overall user experience. Image credits: https://www.apple.com/in/iphone-15-pro/ Year after year, Apple's camera upgrades have become a hallmark of the iPhone, continuing the impressive #ShotoniPhone legacy. This year is certainly no exception. The main camera now boasts a formidable 48-megapixel sensor, offering a remarkable 24-megapixel high-resolution default mode. Plus, the option to shoot in ProRAW format provides even more creative flexibility. What's truly exciting is the ability to toggle between three different focal lengths on the main camera—24mm, 28mm, and 35mm. The good news doesn't end there. The iPhone 15 series supports HEIF formats, allowing you to conserve valuable storage space without compromising on image quality. When it comes to the iPhone Pro camera, every aspect has been fine-tuned for excellence. Think of improved Night mode, better low-light performance, enhanced Portrait mode, and the all-new Cinematic mode. Let's not forget about the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which introduces the longest optical zoom ever seen on an iPhone, thanks to the impressive 3x Telephoto camera. Even if you have unsteady hands, you'll appreciate the camera's new sensor detector, which ensures image stabilization and precise autofocus, resulting in consistently sharp and professional-looking photos. The iPhone 15 introduces an Action button, providing users with greater flexibility to control their most frequently used functions. Whether it's accessing the camera, Voice Memos, or other accessibility features, you can personalize the Action button to trigger your preferred task. These customized actions are not only confirmed through haptic feedback but are also visually displayed on your Dynamic Island. The iPhone now features an officially integrated USB-C charging port The iPhone's USB-C port is one of the biggest changes to the iPhone in years. It is a major upgrade over the Lightning port that has been used on iPhones since 2012. Image credits: https://www.apple.com/in/iphone-15-pro/ The USB-C port is a more versatile and powerful port than Lightning. It can support faster charging speeds, higher data transfer speeds, and a wider range of devices and accessories. Here are some of the benefits of the iPhone's USB-C port: Faster charging: The USB-C port can support faster charging speeds than Lightning. This means that you can charge your iPhone more quickly, especially if you use a high-wattage charger. Higher data transfer speeds: The USB-C port can also support higher data transfer speeds than Lightning. This means that you can transfer files between your iPhone and other devices more quickly. A wider range of devices and accessories: The USB-C port is compatible with a wider range of devices and accessories than Lightning. This means that you can use your iPhone with a variety of devices, such as external displays, monitors, and storage devices. In addition to these benefits, the iPhone's USB-C port is also more durable than the Lightning port. A Comparison of the Technical Specifications of the iPhone 15 and its Predecessors: A brief comparison of the iPhone 15 Pro, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, and Google Pixel Fold: iPhone 15 Pro Pros: Boasts a powerful A16 Bionic chip for impressive performance, features a new 48MP main camera with sensor-shift optical image stabilization, boasts a durable titanium frame, offers long-lasting battery life, and adopts a new USB-C port for versatile connectivity. Cons: Comes at a premium price point, lacks expandable memory options, and retains a notch at the top of the display. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 Pros: Showcases a large foldable display, powered by a robust Snapdragon chip, features a versatile camera system, and supports the S Pen for enhanced usability. Cons: Comes with a high price tag, exhibits thickness and weight due to its foldable design, offers a relatively short battery life, and may display a crease in the foldable screen over time. Google Pixel Fold Pros: Delivers a clean and user-friendly software experience, boasts an excellent camera system, offers impressive battery life, and comes at a competitive price point. Cons: The foldable display is not as large as the Galaxy Z Fold5, and it lacks support for the S Pen, limiting certain usability features.

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, our celestial neighbor, the Moon, has always held a special place in human imagination. From ancient myths to modern science fiction, Earth's closest cosmic companion has been a symbol of mystery, wonder, and uncharted potential. But now, in the 21st century, we stand on the precipice of a new era of lunar exploration—one that promises to redefine our understanding of the Moon and our place in the universe. Moon missions involve sophisticated vehicles with distinct components. The Lander, vital for transporting equipment and astronauts, descends to the lunar surface. Rovers, equipped with wheels or tracks, explore, collect samples, and perform experiments. Orbital modules aid in communication and data transmission. Propulsion systems ensure safe travel, while scientific instruments gather essential data. Together, these components drive lunar exploration, expanding our knowledge of the Moon and enabling future missions and lunar habitation. What is Lander/Spacecraft? The term "lander" typically refers to a spacecraft or vehicle that is designed to land on a celestial body, such as a planet, moon, or asteroid. Landers are used in space exploration missions to safely reach the surface of these celestial bodies, gather data, and conduct experiments. Landers are essential in planetary exploration to study and better understand other worlds in our solar system and beyond. Notable examples include the Viking landers on Mars, the Apollo lunar landers on the Moon, and more recent missions like NASA's InSight lander on Mars. For example, the lander in Chandrayaan-3 is called Vikram. Several advanced technologies are present in Lander, such as: Altimeters: Laser & RF based Altimeters Velocimeters: Laser Doppler Velocimeter & Lander Horizontal Velocity Camera Inertial Measurement: Laser Gyro based Inertial referencing and Accelerometer package Propulsion System: 800N Throttleable Liquid Engines, 58N attitude thrusters & Throttleable Engine Control Electronics Navigation, Guidance & Control (NGC): Powered Descent Trajectory design and associate software elements Hazard Detection and Avoidance: Lander Hazard Detection & Avoidance Camera and Processing Algorithm Image source: https://www.isro.gov.in/Chandrayaan3_New.html Image source: https://www.isro.gov.in/Chandrayaan3_New.html Chandrayaan-3 Chandrayaan-3 serves as a follow-up mission to Chandrayaan-2, with the primary objective of demonstrating a complete capability for a safe lunar landing and surface roving. The propulsion module will transport the Lander and Rover configuration to a lunar orbit approximately 100 km above the moon's surface. Within this module, the Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth (SHAPE) payload is equipped to conduct spectral and polarimetric measurements of Earth from lunar orbit. The Lander is equipped with several payloads, including Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE) for measuring thermal conductivity and temperature, the Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA) to assess seismic activity near the landing site, and the Langmuir Probe (LP) for estimating plasma density and variations. Additionally, a passive Laser Retroreflector Array from NASA is onboard for lunar laser ranging studies. The Rover, on the other hand, carries specialized instruments such as the Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) and Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS) to determine the elemental composition in the vicinity of the landing site. The mission objectives of Chandrayaan-3 are: To demonstrate a Safe and Soft Landing on the Lunar Surface To demonstrate Rover roving on the moon and To conduct in-situ scientific experiments Components of Lander A lander, like any spacecraft, is a complex vehicle with various components and systems designed to safely land on a celestial body and carry out specific tasks. Here are some key parts and components commonly found in a lander: Descent Stage: This is the part of the lander responsible for the controlled descent to the surface of the celestial body. It often includes engines, landing legs, and landing gear to ensure a safe landing. Propulsion System: Lander propulsion systems are used for various purposes, including slowing down the descent, making course corrections, and potentially taking off again for sample return missions. Avionics: Avionics systems consist of onboard computers, sensors, and navigation instruments that help control the lander's descent and landing. Communication Equipment: These systems allow the lander to communicate with mission control on Earth or other spacecraft in orbit. They often include antennas and transmitters/receivers. Scientific Instruments: Depending on the mission's objectives, landers may carry a variety of scientific instruments such as cameras, spectrometers, seismometers, and drills to collect data and samples from the surface. Power Source: Landers typically have a power source, which can be solar panels, nuclear generators, or batteries, to provide energy for onboard systems and instruments. Sensors: Various sensors are used for navigation, hazard avoidance, and scientific data collection. These can include altimeters, accelerometers, gyroscopes, and hazard detection systems. Sample Handling System: In missions involving sample return, there may be mechanisms and containers for collecting, storing, and sealing samples from the surface. Structural Components: The overall structure of the lander, including the chassis and support systems, is essential for maintaining integrity during landing and surface operations. Thermal Protection: Specialized materials and insulation are used to protect the lander from extreme temperatures on the celestial body's surface. Deployment Mechanisms: For missions involving rovers, instruments, or other equipment, deployment mechanisms like ramps, arms, or winches are included. Software and Control Systems: Lander software includes control algorithms for descent and landing, as well as routines for instrument operation and data processing. These components work together to ensure that the lander successfully reaches its destination, lands safely, and accomplishes its mission objectives, whether it's studying the surface, conducting experiments, or collecting samples. The specific design and configuration of these parts can vary greatly depending on the mission's goals and the characteristics of the celestial body being explored. What is the Purpose of Lander? The purpose of a lander in space exploration is to safely transport and deposit scientific instruments, equipment, and often, rovers or other payload onto the surface of a celestial body, such as a planet, moon, or asteroid. Landers serve several key purposes: Scientific Research: Landers carry scientific instruments and experiments designed to study the surface, atmosphere, and environment of the celestial body. These instruments can provide valuable data about the body's geology, climate, composition, and more. Sample Collection: In some missions, landers are equipped to collect samples of the surface material, such as soil or rock, and store them for later analysis or return to Earth. This is particularly important for understanding the history and composition of the celestial body. Technology Demonstrations: Landers often serve as platforms for testing new technologies and techniques in space exploration, including landing systems, communication systems, and autonomous navigation. Habitability Studies: Some landers are designed to assess the habitability of a celestial body for future human missions. They may study the radiation levels, temperature, and other environmental factors relevant to human exploration. Rover Deployment: In many cases, landers carry rovers or other mobile platforms that can explore the surface over a wider area, conduct experiments, and send data back to Earth. Rovers extend the reach and capabilities of a lander. Communications Relay: Landers can serve as communication relays between surface assets (like rovers) and orbiting spacecraft or Earth-based mission control. They facilitate the transfer of data to and from the surface. Public Outreach: Landers often capture and transmit images and other data that generate public interest and engagement in space exploration, promoting scientific literacy and public support for space missions. The specific purpose of a lander can vary widely depending on the goals of the mission and the celestial body being explored. Landers have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the solar system and beyond, contributing to scientific discoveries and paving the way for future human exploration. Patent Analysis Both China and the United States are actively advancing their spacecraft technology on multiple fronts. They are making notable progress in reusable launch vehicles, which are spacecraft designed for multiple uses, a development that promises to significantly reduce the expenses associated with space launches. Additionally, both nations are investing in autonomous spacecraft, capable of operating independently without human intervention, enabling them to perform intricate tasks and withstand hazardous environments more effectively. Furthermore, China and the U.S. are at the forefront of deep space exploration, extending their reach beyond Earth's orbit by dispatching spacecraft to destinations like the moon, Mars, and beyond. In parallel, they are driving innovation in spacecraft miniaturization, creating smaller and lighter craft that offer more cost-effective and accessible options for space missions. Lastly, both countries are actively pursuing spacecraft propulsion advancements, including electric and nuclear propulsion technologies, which promise to enhance spacecraft performance, enabling swifter and more extensive journeys into space. The prevalence of patents in the measurement technology domain within the spacecraft technology field signifies its critical role in space exploration and satellite operations. Measurement technology encompasses a wide array of instruments and techniques used for precise data collection and analysis, which is essential for spacecraft functionality, navigation, communication, scientific research, and safety. Patents in this domain likely cover innovations in sensors, detectors, spectrometers, imaging systems, telemetry devices, and more, all contributing to the improvement of spacecraft capabilities. As spacecraft missions become increasingly sophisticated and diverse, ranging from planetary exploration to Earth observation and telecommunications, the demand for advanced measurement technology continues to drive patent activity, reflecting the industry's commitment to innovation and enhancing mission success. The exponential growth in patent filings related to spacecraft technology over the last decade, culminating in a peak in 2019-2020, highlights the increasing global interest and investment in space exploration and satellite technology. This surge in patents signifies not only the expansion of the space industry but also the rapid advancements in various aspects of spacecraft technology, including propulsion, communication, miniaturization, autonomy, and innovative materials. It reflects the competition among countries, corporations, and research institutions to secure intellectual property rights in this dynamic field, which offers opportunities for scientific discovery, commercial ventures, and national security. Conclusion landers play a pivotal role in space missions, facilitating lunar exploration and scientific discovery. Their importance is underscored by the exponential growth in patent filings related to these innovative spacecraft. Notably, China is emerging as a leader in this patent race, signaling its commitment to advancing space exploration technology. As we look to the future, it's clear that landers will continue to be at the forefront of lunar missions, driving our quest to unravel the mysteries of the Moon and beyond. References https://www.isro.gov.in/Chandrayaan3_New.html https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lander_(spacecraft) https://www.isro.gov.in/Chandrayaan3.html https://www.isro.gov.in/Chandrayaan3_Details.html https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-66808808 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandrayaan-3

As we navigate the evolving landscape of wireless communication technologies, Light Fidelity (Li-Fi) emerges at the forefront as a paradigm-shifting contender. The recent ratification of the IEEE 802.11bb standard is a monumental milestone that propels Li-Fi from academic curiosity to an industry-adopted technology. Spearheaded by pioneers like PureLiFi and Fraunhofer HHI, the 802.11bb standard promises to revolutionize sectors ranging from general connectivity to high-security data transmission and smart home technologies. Let's explore the technical nuances of this groundbreaking development. The Significance of the IEEE 802.11bb Standard The ratification of the IEEE 802.11bb standard in June 2023 has been a watershed moment for Li-Fi technology. By defining the physical layer specifications and system architectures, this standard has provided a solid foundation for Li-Fi's broader adoption. It formalizes data rates ranging from as low as 10 Mbps up to a staggering 9.6 Gbps using invisible infrared light. This milestone ensures that Li-Fi moves from being an academic curiosity to a mainstream technology, with both established companies and startups eager to produce 802.11bb-compliant devices. A Quantum Leap in Connectivity and Data Security Li-Fi sets itself apart by leveraging the optical spectrum for data transmission, an uncrowded domain compared to the radio frequencies used in Wi-Fi. Dominic Schulz from Fraunhofer HHI highlighted Li-Fi's advantages, stating, "Li-Fi offers high-speed mobile connectivity in areas with limited RF like fixed wireless access, classrooms, medical, and industrial scenarios." He also emphasized its potential for "low cost, low energy, and high volumes" while maintaining exceptional security and traffic offloading capabilities. The line-of-sight requirement for Li-Fi further minimizes the risks of eavesdropping and jamming, providing a much-needed security boost in an era rife with data breaches and privacy concerns. The Evolutionary Synergy Between Li-Fi and Wi-Fi Not to be overlooked is the potential symbiosis between Li-Fi and existing Wi-Fi networks. A member of IEEE has piloted tests that employ both Wi-Fi and Li-Fi in a network environment, leveraging each technology's strengths to mitigate the other’s weaknesses. These experiments, conducted with Intel NUC computers, demonstrated a reduction in collision probability from 19% to 10%. This translates to increased network efficiency and reliability, particularly in bandwidth-constrained settings. Patent Analysis The United States, China, and Germany are amongst the top leaders in patent filings for Li-Fi technology due to their robust research and innovation ecosystems, government support, market potential, presence of large tech companies, and global competition. These factors have driven inventors and organizations in these countries to invest in research, development, and patent protection in the promising field of Li-Fi, which offers high-speed and secure wireless communication solutions to meet growing global demands. Samsung and Sony are on top in filing patents related to Li-Fi technology because they are both major players in the electronics industry, and they are investing heavily in the development of this technology. Currently, Samsung Electronics is a forefront pioneer of smart LED lighting systems, which is going to launch Li-Fi enabled devices. G06F-003: Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from the processing unit to the output unit H04B-010: Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio waves, e.g., infrared, visible, or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g., quantum communication H04M-001: Substation equipment, e.g., for use by subscribers H04L-067: Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications H04W-004: Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks Practical Applications and the Path Ahead Li-Fi's utility extends far beyond general connectivity. In environments where RF interference could be detrimental—such as healthcare and industrial settings—Li-Fi emerges as an indispensable alternative. The development of compact, 802.11bb-compliant modules like PureLiFi's Light Antenna ONE, with a narrow 24-degree field of view and up to 1Gbps transmission rates, amplifies Li-Fi's potential for integration into current and future technologies, including mobile devices. Smart Homes: A Natural Habitat for Li-Fi Beyond commercial applications, IEEE 802.11bb can be seamlessly integrated into smart home technologies. Your future LED fixtures, compliant with the 802.11bb standard, could serve dual roles as both light sources and high-speed data transmission channels. PureLiFi's "Light Antenna ONE" is one such device, designed to be fully compliant with 802.11bb standards. It integrates with existing Wi-Fi chipsets, offering a transitional path for homeowners’ keen on embracing Li-Fi. Real-World Applications: Expanding the Horizon 802.11bb compliant Li-Fi technology is already making waves in various sectors: Healthcare: Given its immunity to RF interference, Li-Fi can be a crucial component in healthcare settings, ensuring robust, reliable communication that does not interfere with medical devices. Educational Institutions: With its capacity for low latency and high-speed data transmission, Li-Fi is well-suited for interactive learning environments, from video conferencing to real-time assessments. Industrial Automation: The high data rates possible with Li-Fi, along with the security advantages of line-of-sight communication, make it an ideal choice for real-time control systems in industrial settings. Retail and Public Spaces: Secure, high-speed Li-Fi connectivity can significantly augment user experiences in retail and public spaces, from personalized advertising to real-time analytics. Integration Challenges and Potential Solutions Despite the advancements, integration with existing technologies remains a challenge. Dual-mode devices capable of switching between Wi-Fi and Li-Fi based on network availability and load are still in the development phase. This would enable dynamic traffic offloading, optimizing bandwidth use and ensuring uninterrupted service. Conclusion With the advent of the IEEE 802.11bb standard, Li-Fi technology has moved beyond theoretical promise to practical applicability. As more 802.11bb-compliant products hit the market and as its use cases proliferate across sectors, the trajectory for Li-Fi is unmistakably upward. We're not just witnessing incremental improvements; we are at the brink of a transformational era in wireless communication, one that is illuminated by the versatile capabilities of Li-Fi. Jeroen van Gils is the founder and managing director of LiFi.co, a leading voice in the promotion of Li-Fi technology. He also heads Morex, a digital solutions enterprise. With a fervent passion for Li-Fi technology, Jeroen is dedicated to exploring its myriad possibilities and transforming the way we connect.

Artificial Intelligence has brought a revolutionary change in every aspect of our lives in this era of technology. When we see autonomous cars, smartphones, electronic devices, or robotics around us, we can witness a glimpse of the opportunities created by incorporating AI. Besides, new generation AI processors are much more powerful, and tasks like image processing, machine vision, machine learning, deep learning, and artificial neural networks can be done more efficiently. The list of top AI chip manufacturers includes Tencent, Samsung Electronics, and LG Electronics in this industry which also establish themselves as key contenders in the AI chip market. So, we would not be wrong to assume that the involvement of the leading tech giants will definitely propel the growth of AI technologies to a great extent in the coming years. The core processor architectures that are commonly used in AI systems are divided into three categories, i.e., Scalar, Vector, and Spatial. What is an AI (Artificial Intelligence) Processor? An AI (Artificial Intelligence) processor, also known as an AI accelerator or AI chip, is a specialized hardware component designed to perform AI-related tasks more efficiently than traditional general-purpose processors (e.g., CPUs or GPUs). These processors are optimized to handle the computational workloads involved in machine learning and deep learning applications, which often involve tasks like neural network training and inference. Characteristics and Functions of AI Processors Parallel Processing: AI processors are typically designed with a high degree of parallelism, allowing them to execute multiple AI-related calculations simultaneously. This parallelism is well-suited for the matrix multiplication and vector operations commonly used in neural network computations. Reduced Precision: Many AI processors use reduced-precision arithmetic (e.g., 8-bit or 16-bit) to perform calculations. This helps improve both computational efficiency and power efficiency while maintaining acceptable levels of accuracy for AI tasks. Hardware Optimization: AI processors often incorporate hardware components and instructions specifically tailored for AI workloads. These may include specialized multiply-accumulate (MAC) units, on-chip memory, and instructions for neural network operations. Energy Efficiency: Energy efficiency is crucial in AI applications, especially in mobile devices and edge computing scenarios. AI processors are designed to provide high computational power while minimizing energy consumption. Neural Network Support: AI processors are optimized for tasks related to neural networks, such as forward and backward passes during training and inference. They may also support various neural network architectures and frameworks. Integration: AI processors can be integrated into various devices, including smartphones, edge devices, data center servers, and even autonomous vehicles. They are often used alongside traditional CPUs and GPUs to offload AI-specific workloads. Examples of AI processors and chip architectures include NVIDIA's Tensor Processing Units (TPUs), Google's Edge TPU, Intel's Nervana Neural Network Processors (NNPs), and many others. These processors have been instrumental in accelerating the development and deployment of AI applications in a wide range of industries, from healthcare and automotive to finance and entertainment. Processors Used In AI Systems Scalar (CPUs) A modern CPU is designed to perform well at a wide variety of tasks, for instance, it can be programmed as a SISD machine to give output in a certain order. However, each CISC instruction gets converted to a chain of multiple RISC instructions for execution on a single data element (MISD). It will look at all the instructions and data that we feed and it will line them up in parallel to execute data on many execution units (MIMD). Also, with multiple cores and multiple threads running in parallel to use resources simultaneously on a single core, almost any type of parallelism can be implemented. If a CPU were to operate in a simple SISD mode, grabbing each instruction and data element one at a time from memory, it would be exceptionally slow, no matter how high the frequency is clocked at. In a modern processor, only a relatively small portion of the chip area is dedicated to actually performing arithmetic and logic. The rest is dedicated to predicting what the program will do next, and lining up the instructions and data for efficient execution without violating any causality constraints. Therefore, conditional branching is most relevant to the CPU’s performance versus other architectures. Instead of waiting to resolve a branch, it predicts which direction to take, and then completely reverts the processor state if it is wrong. Vector (GPUs and TPUs) A vector processor is the simplest modern architecture with a very limited computation unit that is repeated many times over the chip to perform the same operation over a wide array of data. The term Graphical Processing Unit is most commonly used these days because initially, these became popular for their use in graphics. A GPU specifically has a limited instruction set to only support certain types of computation. Most of the advancement in GPU performance has come through basic technological scaling of density, area, frequency, and memory bandwidth. Image Source: https://insujang.github.io/2017-04-27/gpu-architecture-overview/ General Purpose Computing on Graphics Processing Unit (GPGPU) Recently, there has been a trend to expand the GPU instruction set to support general-purpose computing. These instructions must be adapted to run on the SIMD architecture and its algorithms run as a repeated loop on a CPU and perform the same operation on each adjacent data element of an array in every cycle. GPUs have very wide memory buses that provide excellent streaming data performance, but if the memory accesses are not aligned with the vector processor elements, then each data element requires a separate request from the memory bus. GPGPU algorithm development is, in the general case, much more difficult than for a CPU. Artificial Intelligence Many Artificial Intelligence algorithms are based on linear algebra, and a massive amount of development in this field has been done by expanding the size of parameter matrices. The parallelism of a GPU allows for massive acceleration of the most basic linear algebra, so it has been a good fit for AI researchers, as long as they stay within the confines of dense linear algebra on matrices that are large enough to occupy a big portion of the processing elements, and small enough to fit in the memory of the GPU. The two main thrusts of modern development in GPUs have been toward tensor processing units (TPUs), which perform full matrix operations in a single cycle, and Multi- GPU interconnects to handle larger networks. Today, we experience great divergence between the hardware architectures for dedicated graphics, and hardware designed for AI, especially in precision. Image Source: https://semiengineering.com/knowledge_centers/integrated-circuit/ic-types/processors/tensor-processing-unit-tpu/ Spatial (FPGAs) An FPGA can be designed for any type of computing architecture, but here we focus on AI-relevant architecture. In a clocked architecture such as a CPU or GPU, each clock cycle loads a data element from a register, moves the data to a processing element, waits for the operation to complete, and then stores the result back to the register for the next operation. In a spatial data flow, the operations are directly connected to the processor so that the next operation executes as soon as the result is computed, and thus, the result is not stored in any register. They have some advantages that are easily realized in terms of Power, Latency, and Throughput. In a register-based processor, power consumption is mostly due to data storage and transport to and from the registers. This is eliminated, and the only energy expended is in the processing elements, and transporting data. The other main advantage is the latency between elements, which is no longer limited to the clock cycle. There are also some potential advantages in throughput, as the data can be clocked into the systolic array at a rate limited only by the slowest processing stage. The data clocks out at the other end at the same rate, with some delay in between, which establishes the data flow. The most common type of systolic array for AI implementations is the tensor core, which has been integrated into a synchronous architecture as a TPU or part of a GPU. Full data flow implementations of entire deep learning architectures like ResNet-50 have been implemented in FPGA systems, which achieved state-of-the-art performance in both latency and power efficiency. When choosing an AI processor for a particular system, it is important to understand the relative advantages of each within the context of the algorithms used and the system requirements and performance objectives. Image Source: https://iq.opengenus.org/cpu-vs-gpu-vs-tpu/ The global AI chip market is currently valued at around $9 billion but is estimated to grow up to around $90 billion in the next four years and around $250 by 2030, at a CAGR of 35%, according to a study by Allied Market Research. There are many companies out there that have been successful in holding large chunks of the marketplace of AI Processors. Now, to get a brief idea of the current AI chip market, we have listed some top companies in this sector. Top 10 Patent Assignee - AI Processor Top Patent Application Countries - AI Processor China's dominance in patent filings for artificial intelligence (AI) processors can be attributed to its combination of government support, a large market and consumer base, an evolving intellectual property strategy, strong manufacturing capabilities, and fruitful collaborations between academia and industry. The Chinese government's initiatives and investments in AI technology, such as the "Made in China 2025" program, have incentivized companies and researchers to innovate and file patents. China's robust manufacturing capabilities and collaborations between academia and industry further contribute to its leadership in patent filings for AI processors. Patent Filing Trend - AI Processor The year 2021 experienced a peak in patent filings in the field of AI due to a combination of factors. The rapid technological advancements in AI, particularly in areas like machine learning and computer vision, have spurred increased research and innovation. Simultaneously, the growing market demand for AI solutions across industries has intensified competition among companies, leading them to protect their inventions through patents. Lastly, the evolving policy and regulatory landscape surrounding AI has prompted companies to secure their intellectual property rights through patent filings to navigate the legal and commercial aspects of AI technology. Conclusion Artificial Intelligence is the future of technology. You can’t expect to find a single device that does not come with AI capabilities in the near future. As a result, all the leading companies invest and research more to establish a strong position in the ongoing war in the AI Chip Market. Besides, ML and DL also play an important role in making AI more powerful and improving performance to a great extent. As mentioned above, companies bring AI processors every year, which has made it easy for manufacturers to bring AI to the edge of the data centers. It does not matter which company leads the race, the consumers will benefit in every case. References https://www.ubuntupit.com/ai-chip-market-is-booming-top-players-in-ai-chip-market/ https://roboticsandautomationnews.com/2019/05/24/top-25-ai-chip-companies-a-macro-step-change-on-the-micro-scale/22704/ https://www.intel.com/content/dam/www/public/us/en/documents/white-papers/ai-processor-basics-brief.pdf https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201210005729/en/250-Billion-Artificial-Intelligence-Chip-Market-by-Chip-Type-Application-Architecture-Processing-Type-End-User---Global-Opportunity-Analysis-and-Industry-Forecast-2020-2030---ResearchAndMarkets.com https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2018/06/04/artificial-intelligence-ai-in-china-the-amazing-ways-tencent-is-driving-its-adoption/ Keywords: ai processor, processor, cpu, gpu, tpu, intel xeon, titan rtx, rtx 3080, ryzen 7 3700x, amd ryzen, gtx 1070, intel core i5, ryzen 9 3900x, intel core i7, nvidia geforce rtx 3080, intel core i9, gaming graphics card, graphics card, gpu z, amd radeon, artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, fpga