TransferJet is a close-proximity wireless transfer technology developed by Sony. A consortium of companies is currently creating standards for the new technology, which allows data to be transferred at speeds of up to 560 Mbps simply by touching the transmitting device directly to the receiving device. TransferJet eliminates complex and troublesome configuration and settings typically associated with conventional wireless technology. For example, simply touching a TV with a digital camera will enable still images to be displayed on the TV screen. Alternatively, downloaded music content can be enjoyed simply by touching a mobile phone to a portable audio player. TransferJet can be thought of as a universal interface that will replace current connectors, cables and memory cards used in many consumer electronics devices.
Wireless Technology with a few cm Range
Your TV responds when you push the button on your remote, and your mobile phone will always connect to a base station when you turn on the power. Everyone from the young to senior citizens can easily use these wireless technologies without thinking. Yet before any wireless system can be used, it is necessary to select the receiving device, and this action requires complex settings.
The aim of TransferJet is to create a simple wireless technology that anyone can use. By reducing the range to less than a few cm, Sony was able to create an intuitive interface that simply requires two devices be brought into contact. This eliminates the need for complex initial setup and configuration with the other devices, such as access points.
As shown in the video, TransferJet enables users to sample music for a specified period and, if they like it, purchase an entire song right there, simply by touching their mobile terminal to the target point on the signage. Because TransferJet has a range of only a few centimeters, there can be different music content offered from multiple target points arranged side-by-side.
The TransferJet Coupler --- A New Communications Technology Based on Induction Fields
Instead of a traditional wireless antenna, which employs electromagnetic radiation, Sony has developed a new antenna element designed to work with longitudinal electric induction fields. Known as the "TransferJet Coupler," it consists of a coupling electrode, a resonant stub, and ground. When a signal is applied to the stub, charge accumulates in the coupling electrode, and a inverse image charge of opposite polarity is generated beneath the ground plane. The ultra-low-power vertical dipole structure formed by these charges is the basis of the TransferJet Coupler system.
Longitudinal Wave Emitted in Forward Direction (Z Axis)
Compared to a conventional antenna, the gain of the TransferJet Coupler is high at short distances but decreases rapidly as distance increases. Because communication takes place only when devices are placed in close proximity (and breaks when they are moved apart), the system is extremely easy for users to understand and operate, and there is no uncertainty about whether or not the wireless connection is working.
As shown in the graph, gain is high at short distances but decreases rapidly as distance increases.
