EP2659568A1

EP2659568A1 - Method and apparatus for providing wireless power transmission

Info

Publication number: EP2659568A1
Application number: EP11853158.1A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Wesley King
Original assignee: Mohawk Carpet LLC
Current assignee: Mohawk Carpet LLC
Priority date: 2010-12-30
Filing date: 2011-12-30
Publication date: 2013-11-06
Also published as: WO2012092383A1; WO2012092561A1

Abstract

A system for wirelessly transmitting power to an electrical device. The system can comprise a wireless power distribution array of wireless power distribution elements configured to transmit electrical energy efficiently using magnetic resonance. The system can be used in conjunction with a variety of floor and wall coverings and/or furniture. The system can enable wirelessly powered devices to be used in an area regardless of the location of fixed power outlets. The system can be installed in, or under, a variety of common surfaces to provide electrical energy across a wide area.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR

PROVIDING WIRELESS POWER TRANSMISSION

CROSS REFERENCE TO A RELATED APPLICATION

[001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.

61/428,452, filed 30 December 2010 entitled "Floor Systems and Methods of Making and Using Same," and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/428,442, filed 30

December 2010 entitled "Method and Apparatus for Providing Wireless Power Transmission," which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety as if fully set forth below.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

[002] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to a system and method for providing power wirelessly, and specifically to room furnishings with embedded power transmission capabilities.

2. Background of Related Art

[003] The use of power cords (e.g. conductive wires) to distribute power from the traditional electrical wiring infrastructure in buildings to discrete devices (e.g., personal electronic devices, lighting fixtures, TV's, and the like) can be unattractive, inconvenient, and in some cases dangerous. The cords for providing such power, for example, can be trip hazards and can become fire hazards when frayed. Nonetheless, the cost of standard electricity per kilowatt- hour averages about $0.10 nationally and compares favorably with any other type of widely available power source (e.g., disposable batteries cost approximately $300 per kilowatt-hour).

[004] There exists a desire, therefore, to decouple the powered device from the power source. This desire is particularly appropriate for personal mobile devices (e.g., cell phones, cameras, PDA's, iPods, and the like). These devices initially achieved mobility using disposable batteries. This method, however, is expensive, requires regular battery replacement, and is not a sustainable or environmentally friendly due to the hazardous waste generated (i.e., the discharged batteries). Today, such devices typically use rechargeable batteries, which are recharged periodically from a central power source, such as household power or a car charger, to

2342328vl provide a more sustainable alternative. It would nonetheless be desirable to eliminate the need for a power cable between the power source (e.g., household or automotive power) and the device being charged.

[005] The desire to improve the efficiency in buildings through increased monitoring has also driven the increased use of sensors, transmitters, receivers, and other distributed electronic devices. For a variety of reasons, including, among other things, reliability, labor costs, and maintenance, these devices are typically powered either directly from the building power or from on-board, disposable batteries. In the first case, the devices either must be located close to an outlet, or must be connected using a power cord of appropriate length.

[006] In other words, the need for direct, plug-in power may preclude the optimum placement of the object due to power limitations. This can be because building power is simply not accessible (i.e., there are no convenient outlets), or because the use of a power cord is, for example, difficult, unsafe, or otherwise undesirable. As a result, efforts have been made to reduce the power consumption of many devices to increase battery life or to enable the use of non-traditional energy sources (e.g., photovoltaic, thermo-electric, radio frequency and vibrational/mechanical). Unfortunately, this type of energy source is not yet widely used due to issues related to, among other things, suitability, reliability, and expense.

[007] As a result, there is a need to efficiently convert inexpensive building "grid" power into another form of energy and distribute it wirelessly via a scalable infrastructure for use by fixed, mobile, and/or relatively fixed, but moveable, electronic devices. There are several known technologies for wirelessly re-charging or powering electronic devices, including but not limited to systems by PowerBeam (Mountain View, CA), PowerMat USA (Commerce

Township, MI), PowerCast (Pittsburgh, PA), and WiTricity (Watertown, MA), which utilize line-of-sight optical (i.e. laser), magnetic induction, radio-frequency (RF) transmission, and resonant magnetic induction, respectively, to wirelessly deliver electrical power from the source to an unconnected device.

[008] The PowerBeam system, for example, is line-of-sight. In other words, delivery of power can be blocked by any opaque device between the source and receiving device. In addition, the source and device must maintain their alignment for energy transfer to occur. The PowerMat system, on the other hand, comprises a mat or plate containing an electro-magnetic coil that generates an AC magnetic field. This magnetic field then inductively charges a device

2342328vl 2 that has been placed in direct contact with the substrate in a very specific location. Outside of this specific location, however, the inductive charging does not function properly. In addition, due to the relatively small magnetic field, this method is also very short range.

[009] The Powercast system comprises a wireless RF connection between a transmitting antenna (i.e., a power source) and a receiving antenna connected to the device to be powered. The system can distribute power from a power source in a fixed position to a device located anywhere within range (i.e., line-of-sight is not required). The source can also power several discrete devices. As shown in Table 1, below, antenna reception and conversion to electricity is relatively efficient; however, the amount of transmitted RF power is limited by, among other things, FCC regulations (data in Table 1 made publicly available by Texas Instruments).

Additionally, the amount of transmitted power that is received relates to the receiving antenna size, which is generally minimized to keep the receiving device itself small. In addition, the RF signals can be attenuated by metals, liquids and the human body, which can significantly affect the power transfer efficiency.

Table 1.

Energy Source Characteristics Efficiency Harvested Power

Indoor 100 W/cm²

Light 10-24%

Outdoor 100 mW/cm²

Human 0.1 % 60 W/cm²

Thermal

Industrial 3% -1-10 mW/cm²

PHz (Human) ~4 W/cm³

Vibration 25-50%

F¾ z (Machine) -800 W/cm³

WiFi 2.4GHz 0.001 W/cm²

RF 50%

GSM 900 MHz 0.1 W/cm²

[010] WiTricity technology is similar to the PowerMat technology, in that they both use magnetic inductive coils. WiTricity, in addition to magnetic inductance, also introduces magnetic resonance. In other words, the coils are electro-magnetically tuned to transfer magnetic energy more efficiently, thereby greatly reducing, or eliminating, radiative losses. Radiative losses ordinarily consume a significant portion of the input power and reduce efficiency. For a given resonator size, resonance enables the transfer of power over greater

2342328vl 3 distances, with lower magnetic fields and higher efficiencies, when compared to other magnetic induction systems. Higher efficiency makes it possible to transfer power inductively from the "source" to a powered device via several passive inductive coils or resonators. Each of the coils transfers the magnetic field from the source to the object without significantly attenuating the magnetic field strength or consuming power unless a load is present near that coil.

[Oi l] In addition, resonant magnetic induction does not have the same attenuation issues found in the Powermat and PowerCast technologies because the transfer efficiency is not affected by many common objects unless they are magnetic. The presence of people, liquids, and non-magnetic metals has no significant impact on system performance. U.S. Patent No. 7,741,734 to Joannopoulos, Karalis, and Soljacic discloses wireless non-radiative energy transfer similar to that used for the WiTricity product.

[012] The ability to transfer power wirelessly over distances much greater than an individual resonator size via several successive, passive resonators was demonstrated by

WiTricity. Although transfer efficiency is reduced when the "source" and "device" resonators are different sizes, WiTricity has demonstrated they can design matched resonators allowing methods for obtaining useful transfer efficiency in situations with dissimilar resonator sizes by so adjusting and matching the resonators. Although WiTricity technology works at a relatively long range compared with other magnetic inductive technologies, transferring energy across a standard room would nonetheless require an undesirably large resonator.

[013] US Patent App. No. 2010/0033021 Al to James D. Bennett entitled, "Phased

Array Wireless Resonant Power Delivery System discloses a transmitter resonant array comprising a plurality of transmitting elements, each operable to produce a non-radiated magnetic field. In Bennett, however, active elements capable of producing their own magnetic field are used. This requires a power supply to each of the transmitting elements, which presents the same challenge as originally presented (e.g., placement limited by existing power outlet location).

[014] The PowerCast and other RF power transfer technologies, especially those intended for interior use in buildings, are also limited by the small size of the receiving antennas used to harvest or capture RF signals from the "source" antenna to convert the signals to electricity at the object device. These antennas comprise relatively thin conductive structures that rely upon mechanically supportive substrates in most instances. Such antennas are generally

2342328vl 4 small because it is desirable for the devices in which they are used to be small and unobtrusive, particularly indoors. As a result, the components of the device, including the antennas, tend to be made as small as possible. This naturally results in reduced performance in certain areas as an acceptable design trade-off.

[015] US Patent Application US 2010/0201202 Al to Kirby et al. entitled, "Wireless

Power Transfer for Furnishings and Building Elements" discloses the use of furnishings as a means for deploying wireless power distribution elements, of both the RF and resonant magnetic systems, wherein the furnishings comprise furniture, floors, walls and ceilings. Kirby teaches movable and discrete "host furnishings" into which the power transmitting devices are partially or fully embedded at the time of manufacture. Kirby does not teach methods for the embedding of such devices, nor does it provide any practical example of how to power such embedded devices other than direct electrical connection to building AC power.

[016] Due to the intrinsic mechanical properties of thin conductive wires, tracings, and printed conductors, existing technology is limited in that the resonators must be embedded or integrated into mechanically strong structures for support and protection. This integration can be accomplished by embedding the resonators into discrete mats or electronic packaging, typically hard metal or plastic or flexible polymer structures like the Powermat products (i.e., a "charging station" type of product). If one desired to have wireless electricity available throughout a defined space, however, it would be necessary to distribute a multitude of passive "resonators" (an "array") to cover the intended area.

[017] To create this array of resonators, it would be desirable to integrate these components into the very surfaces that define the space and to which the occupants and associated electronic devices in the space come into proximity. It is to such a device that embodiments of the present invention are directed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[018] Embodiments of the present invention relate to configurations and methods for making floor, walls and outer surface of various objects (e.g. furniture) in a space (hereinafter, "Surfaces") that comprise electro -magnetic, electronic, and other components. These Surfaces can serve the dual purposes of housing and deploying a wireless electricity infrastructure in an intended space and providing the qualities and characteristics normally expected of such durable

2342328vl 5 Surfaces. Surfaces can, for example, define the limit of any particular space, particularly indoors, and thereby serve as the tactile boundary between a space and the occupants and electronic devices that are present in the space. As such, these Surfaces can provide an advantageous location for placing a wireless power distribution array supplying power to wirelessly powered devices that will be present in the space. These same Surfaces can also provide an advantageous location for placing the devices that generate and distribute data or information, for example, building and environmental data relevant to the present conditions or use of that space and/or occupants in the space. It will be recognized that these devices can also require a power source. In some embodiments, wirelessly powered devices that are meant to either operate throughout the space or are normally taken to and from the space by occupants can be wirelessly powered by the wireless power distribution array. Other electronic devices powered wirelessly by the infrastructure can be advantageously integrated into the Surfaces themselves and can be co-located with the wireless power infrastructure components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[019] Fig. 1 depicts a variety of electronic components, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[020] Figs. 2a-2b depict a groutless tile for use with some embodiments of the present invention.

[021] Fig. 3 depicts a variety of electronic components disposed on the tiles of Figs. 2a-

2b, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[022] Figs. 4a-4c depict a magnetic coil molded into the tiles of Figs. 2a- 2b, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[023] Fig. 4d depicts a self-adhesive underlayment for use with some embodiments of the present invention.

[024] Figs. 5a-5d depict an electronic component adhered to a tile with a waterproofing compound, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[025] Fig. 6 depicts a schematic of a wireless power array, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[026] Figs. 7a, 7b, and 8 depict a variety of floor underlayments for use with carpet, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

2342328vl 6 [027] Figs. 9a-9c depict a variety of floor underlayments for use with laminate flooring, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[028] Fig. 10 depicts a schematic of a wireless power array for use with a floor underlayment, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[029] Figs. 1 la- 1 If depict a cross-sectional view of a variety of electronic components disposed in a variety of configurations, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[030] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a system for embedding an electrical transmission network in common surfaces. The electrical transmission network can utilize, for example and not limitation, magnetic induction coupled with magnetic resonance to transmit electrical energy efficiently from one location to another. The electrical transmission network can be embedded in, for example and not limitation, floor, wall, and ceiling coverings, and furniture.

[031] The materials described hereinafter as making up the various elements of the present invention are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many suitable materials that would perform the same or a similar function as the materials described herein are intended to be embraced within the scope of the invention. Such other materials not described herein can include, but are not limited to, materials that are developed after the time of the development of the invention.

[032] As described above, a problem with conventional power distribution is that items that require electrical power either must be located near an existing outlet, or connected thereto using an extension cord or other means. It is sometimes impossible, or at the very least undesirable, to locate every power consuming item near an outlet or connect it to an outlet with an extension cord. As a result, a need exists to provide reliable and efficient power throughout a room using a power array, without regard for the location of preexisting outlets.

[033] Covering a significant amount of surface area with a conventional "charging station" configuration, as mentioned above, does not present an easily installed, cost effective, durable, or decorative solution for providing such an array. Hence, there is a need for a method to configure a durable, reasonably priced, easily installed, and decorative surface that can contain

2342328vl 7 embedded electro-magnetic devices (e.g., resonators). Embodiments of the present invention provide for configuring and making such an array.

[034] In order to provide a continuous power distribution network within a room, it can be convenient to embed the necessary circuitry for a wireless power distribution element, such as magnetic resonators in certain embodiments, within the existing surfaces. These surfaces can comprise, for example and not limitation, the floor, walls, and outer surface of various objects (e.g. furniture) in the space ("Surfaces"). In particular, it would be beneficial if the walls and floors were installed using known materials and techniques and continued to function normally as durable and decorative surfaces, yet contained provisions for the installation and connection of the necessary electronic components. In some embodiments, it is advantageous to use non-metal materials for the wall and floor covering units so as to minimize any interference with the wireless power distribution elements or the overall wireless power distribution array. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that in certain implementations, however, various types of metal materials can be used without detriment to the function of the system. In addition to their usage for housing electronic components, it would be beneficial if the Surfaces functioned as places where electronic devices can be placed, stored, and/or displayed. It is to such a network that embodiments of the present invention are primarily directed.

[035] In some embodiments, a resonant magnetic field can be generated from one or more wireless power distribution elements. The wireless power distribution elements disposed in the Surfaces then serve to propagate the generated resonant magnetic field through the array. In other words, the Surfaces are passive (i.e. un-powered) repeaters that can respond resonantly to the magnetic field of adjacent array elements. This configuration precludes the need to supply power independently to each of the array elements. Therefore, in exemplary embodiment, one of the Surface components in an array can be connected via a wired connection to a power source and thereby provide power to the entire wireless power distribution array integrated into the Surfaces.

[036] If the wireless power distribution elements are located within the Surfaces (e.g., products providing the normal qualities one would expect from wall and floor coverings and certain types of furniture) then conventional small, inefficient RF antennas can be replaced with a larger, more efficient array. This, in turn can improve the performance characteristics of a system for wireless power delivery. Hence, there is a need for a method for configuring durable,

2342328vl 8 reasonably priced and installed, and decorative Surfaces that contain embedded antenna structures having greater size and therefore improved performance relative to the existing, smaller antenna structures.

[037] In some embodiments, therefore, the Surfaces of the present invention can be configured to accommodate significantly larger embedded antenna structures than would be acceptable in a "surface mount" or "free-standing" (non-embedded) antenna (i.e., one that is visible to the casual observer). Due to their size, such embedded antenna structures can capture more of the incident transmitted RF signals as compared with non-embedded antennas (a.k.a., "surface mount" or "free-standing" devices).

[038] Embodiments of the present invention, therefore, relate to the configuration of

Surfaces comprising electro-magnetic and/or RF antenna components, while providing decorative and durable floor and wall coverings and/or furniture outer surfaces. These Surfaces can form a wireless power distribution array comprising a wireless power delivery infrastructure in a given space. Additionally, these components within the wireless power distribution array can perform the "source" or "transmit" function, when suitably connected to the power supply, as well as the "receive" function when suitably connected to the device being powered (the "object device"). Resonant magnetic induction components, provided in some embodiments of the wireless power distribution elements, can also perform as a passive "repeater" that enables the field generated by the "source" to be passively repeated until it reaches and resonantly couples with the resonator serving as the "receiver," which can be electrically or inductively connected to the object device.

[039] Such an exemplary embodiment of the wireless power distribution array can be used to power one or more wirelessly powered devices in at least three basic ways: (1) to provide wireless electricity to a suitably designed, stationary device which can be located near the array in a variety of locations but is not embedded in the Surface (e.g., a floor lamp); (2) to provide wireless electricity to a suitably designed mobile device that receives inductive power from the array and uses the inductive power for motion, control, and/or some other type of function enabled by the inductive power supply (e.g., an electric forklift or robotic sentry); and (3) to provide wireless electricity to a suitably designed device which is also embedded in the Surface, along with other embedded electro-magnetic, electronic, and/or antenna components.

2342328vl 9 [040] The presence of a wireless power distribution array in these Surfaces brings the wireless power into close proximity to the wirelessly powered devices that need the power, without the use of actual physical connections (i.e. power cords) between the wirelessly powered device and the source. The Surfaces combine the decorative and installation characteristics of conventional floor and wall coverings and certain furniture surfaces (e.g., countertops, desks, tables, shelves, cabinets, and doors) with the wireless power and/or signal distribution function. The Surfaces provide a convenient, decorative, and space-appropriate means for assembling and deploying an array of electro-magnetic structures that make wireless power accessible throughout a given space.

[041] The wireless power distribution array enables the efficient, wireless, and convenient use of the most economical power source currently available (i.e., typical household or building power). The wireless aspect permits the easy reconfiguration of common stationary electrical items within the space (e.g., a floor lamp) without the geometrical limits created by, for example, the length or placement of an electrical cord or the position of an outlet. The array can also supply power to an array of wireless sensors integrated into Surfaces throughout a given space. This not only provides convenience, but can also lower cost of building ownership by providing improved monitoring. Sensors can be utilized to monitor, among other things, building conditions, energy usage, and personnel location, without the need to provide hardwired power, which may be difficult or impossible to route from the building power to the device, and without batteries, which must be replaced or recharged periodically.

[042] The presence of an efficient and economical wireless power distribution array within a given space can also facilitate the use of autonomous devices, while satisfying their power requirements wirelessly via this infrastructure. This capability enables the re-design of such devices to alter, reduce, or eliminate current on-board stored power requirements, making them more efficient and less costly to operate. This can enable a robotic device or a forklift, for example, to operate directly off the wireless array (i.e., with no batteries), or to use smaller batteries that are recharged during use by the array. This can reduce the weight and cost of these items and improve efficiency. Recharging batteries during use can also prevent the batteries from becoming deeply discharged, improving battery life. The presence of an efficient and economical wireless power infrastructure within a given space can also facilitate the use of

2342328vl 10 passive RF tracking devices or data recording devices used to generate time- and location- specific data for objects and people.

[043] As shown in Fig. 1, both resonator and antenna structures, exemplary

embodiments of wireless power distribution elements, can comprise conductive tracings, which can be, for example and not limitation, wires, etched circuit lines, or structures printed using conductive ink. In some embodiments, these traces can be connected to other circuitry elements that determine the overall electromagnetic properties. Such additional elements include, but are not limited to, electric resistors, capacitors, inductors, and transistors, that individually perform a particular electronic function, which adds to the overall circuit performance. These structures can also include a power supply and/or an energy storage device to enable the structure to transmit or receive wireless energy. These conductive structures are generally not capable of mechanically supporting themselves and must be mounted to a substrate (e.g. printed circuit board) for protection and reliability. While the size of such structures can vary from a few millimeters to meters, many have a size and scale that is comparable to floor tiles.

[044] As shown in Fig. 2a, exemplary embodiment of the wireless power distribution element can be used in conjunction with a groutless tile system. Exemplary groutless floor tile products are described in more detail in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0184646, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The tiles in Fig. 2a are shown connected from the backside, as molded. The backside of this particular groutless tile design can have a 5mm high space in the molded pattern. As a result, wireless power distribution elements could, for example, be placed into this space and be attached to the tile externally. Fig. 2b depicts a schematic of two groutless tiles connected together by a first coupling member on the first groutless tile 205 and a second coupling member on the second groutless tile. One can see how the "grout" is formed by the joined edges of the coupling members of the first and second groutless tiles 205 and 210. In some embodiments, the wireless power distribution elements of the first and second groutless tiles 205 and 210 can be connected when the first coupling member on the first groutless tile 205 and a second coupling member on the second groutless tile are connected. Therefore, in an exemplary embodiment, a wireless power distribution array can be created when a plurality of groutless tiles are connected, thereby connecting the wireless power distribution elements of each tile. Additionally, one or more of the groutless tiles in the wireless power distribution array can be connected to a power source,

2342328vl 11 such as a wired connection to a household power source. Of course, other tiles, wall coverings, and components could be used to house the electronics and are contemplated herein.

[045] Figure 3 depicts the groutless tiles from the backside showing exemplary embodiment of the wireless power distribution elements, such as resonator or antenna structures 305 and 310, for example, can be designed to fit into the pattern of spaces on the backside of an exemplary embodiment of the molded groutless tile. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 3, the structures 305 and 310 are shown as located on the exterior of the molded plastic layer. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that other materials can be used to fill in the spaces once the components are in the spaces, effectively sealing in or "potting" the components into the back and thereby integrating them into the product permanently. In other embodiments, the structure could be molded directly into the tile product.

[046] Figs. 4a-4c depict a groutless tile system, including cross section, where a metal coil exemplary embodiment of a wireless power distribution element has been molded into the groutless tile during manufacture. In this example, the wire forms a coil within the surface of the tile and is encased therein to form an exemplary embodiment of the wireless power distribution element. In cross section, multiple individual wires can be seen, although, in this case, they all form a portion of a single coil of an exemplary embodiment of the wireless power distribution element.

[047] Fig. 4d depicts a sheet membrane product that can be installed along with conventional floor tiles. Products such as, for example and not limitation, the peel and stick Protecto-Wrap Anti-Fracture Membrane (AFM®) product comes available as a roll and can be installed under a variety of flooring products. This type of product can comprise a top layer that will bond to the adhesives used to install the flooring product (e.g., thin-set for ceramic tiles) and a bottom layer that is waterproof (e.g., rubber, synthetic rubber, or plastic). The product can act to mechanically decouple the underlying substrate from the flooring product so that cracks or deformations, for example, from the sub-floor do not cause cracks in the flooring product. These sheet products can also be used to integrate the wireless power components and can protect the components via incorporation into a waterproof laminate.

[048] As shown in Figs. 5a-d, electronic components can also be encased in and directly bonded to the backside of the flooring product using, for example and not limitation, a liquid waterproofing and crack prevention membrane, such as Red Guard® from Custom Building

2342328vl 12 Products. Fig. 5a depicts the liquid waterproofing and crack prevention product prior to application. Fig. 5b depicts the backside of conventional ceramic floor tile. Figs. 5c and 5d depict the back of tile with a metal wire loop adhered to the tile using Red Guard after about 2 hours of cure time at room temperature.

[049] Fig. 6 depicts a schematic of a wireless power distribution system deployed via flooring units in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In this example, the size, shape, and density (number per square foot) of electromagnetic elements forming the wireless power distribution elements of the wireless power distribution system can, at least partially, be influenced by the size and shape of the flooring unit. Similar size requirements could apply to tile-based wall covering, where the electromagnetic elements are integrated into the wall-covering units (e.g. tile, wall panels). The wall or floor-covering units can be, for example and not limitation, tiles, carpet squares, or laminated products. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 6, the wireless power distribution elements of the floor-covering units can be connected by the coupling members of each unit. Therefore, in this exemplary embodiment, a wireless power distribution array can be created when a floor covering units are connected, thereby connecting the wireless power distribution elements of each unit. One or more of the wireless power distribution elements, which can be located in the floor, wall, or other proximate location, can be physically connected to the electrical source (e.g. a wall outlet). The remaining wireless power distribution elements can be, for example, passive resonators to perpetuate the electrical energy, or can be coupled to the electrical load. Such a wireless power distribution system can be used to provide wireless power to stationary appliances (e.g., a floor lamp) or mobile devices (e.g., a vehicle or robot).

[050] The wireless power distribution elements can also be used in conjunction with various underlayment products for use with carpeting. As shown in Fig. 7a, padding made from recycled polyurethane foam, for example, is commonly installed under broadloom (i.e. wall-to- wall) carpet. Carpet tile products often comprise a polymeric backing layer, for example, such as that shown in Fig. 7b. Such materials could easily be made to accommodate wireless power distribution elements such as the resonant and antenna structures previously discussed.

Underlayments comprising viscoelastic, or "memory foam," (Fig. 8) and products for use with laminate and wood flooring (Figs. 9a-9c) can be similarly utilized. Underlayment products for use under laminate floors provide a sound absorption and mechanical cushioning functions.

2342328vl 13 Such products can comprise multiple layers of fabric, foam, and fibers and typically come in continuous sheet form. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that wireless power distribution elements can be integrated into these kinds of products for installation under laminate flooring.

[051] Figure 10 depicts a schematic of an underlayment with a wireless power distribution system in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. The diagram shows that configuration (i.e., the size, shape, and density) of the wireless power distribution elements 1005 can be substantially independent of the configuration of the flooring unit used to form the top decorative and durable floor. In other words, the size and shape of the wireless power distribution elements 1005 is generally limited only by the overall dimensions of the underlayment. This can provide greater design freedom for configuring the wireless power distribution system and flooring units.

[052] Figs. 1 la-1 lc depict cross-sectional views of the system when used with various flooring system configurations. These configurations include: the wireless power system installed in the underlayment, with the object device (i.e., the device being powered) in the flooring unit (Fig. 10a); the wireless power system and object device both integrated into the flooring unit (Fig. 10b); and the wireless power system and the object device integrated into the underlayment layer.

[053] Similarly, Figs. 1 ld-1 If depict a schematic of different flooring system

configurations used to power an object device disposed on top of the floor surface. These configurations include: a wireless power system in the flooring unit, with the object device external to the floor surface (Fig. lOd); the wireless power system in the underlayment layer, with object device external to the floor surface (Fig. lOe); and the use of magnetic materials in the flooring unit (shown in the core, but could also be in top layer) that enhance the range of the wireless power system, with the object device external to the floor surface. One skilled in the art would understand that the magnetic components and wireless power system could be disposed in the underlayment layer, the floor unit, or both.

[054] In some embodiments, the wireless power distribution elements, such as resonators and RF antennas in some embodiments, can be integrated into groutless floor tiles, which are installed using methods known for laminated flooring products. In other

embodiments, the wireless power distribution elements, such as resonators and RF antennas in some embodiments, can be integrated into groutless wall tiles, which are installed using methods

2342328vl 14 known for wall panels. Conventional wall and floor tiles are normally installed using cementatious or polymeric adhesive setting materials. Often used in conjunction with these products, for the purposes of waterproofing the installation and/or providing a crack-prevention function, are sheet products commonly referred to membranes. These membranes can be rubberized and can comprise fleece or other outside layers to promote adhesion.

[055] Various embodiments of the wireless power distribution elements, such as antenna and magnetic induction components, can also be advantageously integrated into these membranes. Such a placement would provide structural integrity to the individual components and overall system, rendering it easily handled and installed, and protecting it from possible mechanical damage and/or chemical corrosion. This configuration also de-couples the size of the tile unit from the size of the electro-magnetic component(s), which can then be varied over a range in order to tailor the performance. Membranes comprising electro -magnetic elements could be installed underneath tiles using standard methods.

[056] In some embodiments, conventional wall and floor tiles could comprise a layer including the wireless power distribution elements. In other embodiments, the wireless power distribution elements can be adhered to the tile using, for example, an adhesive or waterproofing compound. In this configuration, the adhesive or waterproofing compound can provide mechanical support, protection, and waterproofing to the components. Tiles thus configured could be handled and installed as with conventional tiles.

[057] Conventional laminate products for flooring are typically floating designs that do not permanently attach to the floor. As a result, these products are often installed with an underlayment product between the laminate and the sub-floor to provide, among other things, cushioning and sound attenuation. In some embodiments, the antenna and magnetic induction components can be integrated into these underlayment layers. These layers can then be installed along with conventional laminate products to provide a convenient means for creating a wireless power distribution infrastructure under the floor.

[058] Similarly, carpet products are often installed with foam or padding that can be a separate layer placed on the sub-floor, or can be a layer that is integral to the carpet product. The layer acts as padding between the sub-floor and the top decorative carpet layer. This foam or padding layer is also a suitable host for the electro -magnetic structures.

2342328vl 15 [059] Products used to form common furniture surfaces such as, for example and not limitation, countertops, desks, shelves, cabinets, and chairs, can include natural and engineered wood, ceramic tile, stone, glass, polymeric composites (e.g. Silestone or Quartzstone). In some embodiments, these products can be fabricated or produced such that they can house or carry the electro-magnetic structures. In some embodiments, such as with chipboard, other engineered wood products, or polymeric composites, the materials are processed in such a way that the electro-magnetic components can be embedded during the primary manufacturing process.

[060] While several possible embodiments are disclosed above, embodiments of the present invention are not so limited. For instance, while several possible configurations have been disclosed (e.g., magnetic components disposed in a floor, wall, or furniture component), other suitable materials and configurations could be selected without departing from the spirit of the invention. While various configurations are disclosed including installation with, among other things, carpet underlayment and wall tiles, the system could also be, for example, embedded in a poured concrete floor or installed underneath a vinyl sheet flooring product. In addition, the location and configuration used for various features of embodiments of the present invention can be varied according to a particular tile size, strength requirement, or building code. Such changes are intended to be embraced within the scope of the invention.

[061] The specific configurations, choice of materials, and the size and shape of various elements can be varied according to particular design specifications or constraints requiring a device, system, or method constructed according to the principles of the invention. Such changes are intended to be embraced within the scope of the invention. The presently disclosed embodiments, therefore, are considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims, rather than the foregoing description, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalents thereof are intended to be embraced therein.

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Claims

1. A wireless power distribution groutless tile system comprising:

a plurality of groutless tiles, wherein each groutless tile comprises:

a substrate;

a durable surface disposed within a groove defined by the substrate; and a wireless power distribution element, wherein the wireless power distribution element is enabled to deliver wireless power.

2. The wireless power distribution groutless tile system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of groutless tile form a wireless power distribution array when connected.

3. The wireless power distribution groutless tile system of claim 2, further comprising a wirelessly powered device, wherein the wirelessly powered device receives wireless power from the wireless power distribution array when the wirelessly powered device is proximate one or more of the plurality of groutless tiles.

4. The wireless power distribution groutless tile system of claim 3, wherein the wirelessly powered device is a stationary device positioned on top of one or more of the plurality of groutless tiles.

5. The wireless power distribution groutless tile system of claim 3, wherein the wirelessly powered device is a mobile device enabled to receive wireless power while traveling to a plurality of positions proximate one or more of the plurality of groutless tiles.

6. The wireless power distribution groutless tile system of claim 3, wherein the wirelessly powered device is integrated into one or more of the plurality of groutless tiles.

7. The wireless power distribution groutless tile system of claim 3, wherein one or more of the plurality of groutless tiles can be connected via a wired connection to a power source and the wired connection can power the entire wireless power distribution array.

8. The wireless power distribution groutless tile system of claim 1, wherein a first groutless tile has a first coupling member and the second groutless tile has a second coupling member, and wherein the first coupling member can be connected to the second coupling member to maintain a connection between the first groutless tile and the second groutless tile.

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9. The wireless power distribution groutless tile system of claim 8, wherein the coupling of the first coupling member to the second coupling member enables a first wireless power distribution element of the first groutless tile to be connected to a second wireless power distribution element of the second groutless tile.

10. The wireless power distribution groutless tile system of claim 1, wherein the wireless power distribution element is an electro-magnetic component.

11. The wireless power distribution groutless tile system of claim 1, wherein the wireless power distribution element is a Radio Frequency ("RF") antenna.

12. A wireless power distribution wall covering system comprising:

a plurality of wall covering units, wherein each wall covering unit comprises:

a non-metal wall covering surface; and

a wireless power distribution element, wherein the wireless power distribution element is enabled to deliver wireless power.

13. The wireless power distribution wall covering system of claim 12, wherein the plurality of wall covering units form a wireless power distribution array when connected.

14. The wireless power distribution wall covering system of claim 13, further comprising a wirelessly powered device, wherein the wirelessly powered device receives wireless power from the wireless power distribution array when the wirelessly powered device is proximate one or more of the plurality of wall covering units.

15. The wireless power distribution wall covering system of claim 14, wherein the wirelessly powered device is a stationary device positioned on top of one or more of the plurality of wall covering units.

16. The wireless power distribution wall covering system of claim 14, wherein the wirelessly powered device is a mobile device enabled to receive wireless power while traveling to a plurality of positions proximate one or more of the plurality of wall covering units.

17. The wireless power distribution wall covering system of claim 14, wherein the wirelessly powered device is integrated into one or more of the plurality of wall covering units.

18. The wireless power distribution wall covering system of claim 14, wherein one or more of the plurality of wall covering units can be connected via a wired connection to a power source and the wired connection can power the entire wireless power distribution array.

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19. A groutless tile system comprising:

a first groutless tile, wherein the first groutless tile comprises:

a first substrate;

a first durable surface disposed within a first groove defined by the substrate; a first wireless power distribution element, wherein the wireless power distribution element is enabled to deliver wireless power;

a first connecting mechanism in communication with the first wireless power distribution element;

a second groutless tile, wherein the second groutless tile comprises:

a second substrate;

a second durable surface disposed within a second groove defined by the second substrate; and

a second wireless power distribution element, wherein the wireless power distribution element is enabled to deliver wireless power;

a second connecting mechanism in communication with the second wireless power distribution element.

20. The groutless tile system of claim 19, wherein the first wireless power distribution element can be can be connected via a wired connection to a power source, the first and second connecting mechanisms can be connected, and the second wireless power distribution element can receive power from the first wireless power distribution element.

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