JP2019506117A - Wireless power charging system and method via multiple receivers - Google Patents

Abstract

An RF circuit configured to generate an RF signal and configured to receive the RF signal and to have an RF energy signal having a center frequency within at least one of the plurality of unit cells The electronic device antenna when the plurality of unit cells and the antenna of the electronic device are tuned to a center frequency and disposed within a near field distance from one or more of the plurality of unit cells. And a receiving circuit configured to charge the electronic device in response to receiving the RF energy signal.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD In general, this disclosure relates to wireless charging. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to low power near field charging surfaces.

BACKGROUND Electronic devices such as laptop computers, smart phones, portable game devices, tablets, or others require power to operate. As is generally understood, electronic devices are frequently charged at least once a day, or more than once a day for electronic devices that are frequently used or consume large amounts of power. Such work is tedious and can be burdensome for some users. For example, a user may need to carry a charger in order to beware if the electronic device has insufficient power. In addition, some users must find an available power source to connect the electronic device, which is time consuming. Finally, some users must plug into a wall or some other power source so that the electronic device can be charged. However, such operations may make the electronic device unusable or not portable during charging.

  Some conventional solutions include inductive charging pads, which may use magnetic induction coils or resonant coils. As will be appreciated in the art, such a solution is that (i) the electronic device is placed at a specific location on the inductive charging pad, and (ii) the electromagnetic field has a specific orientation. Because of this, it still needs to be placed in a specific orientation for feeding. Furthermore, inductive charging units require large coils in both devices (ie, the charger and the device charged by the charger), which is undesirable for reasons of size and cost, for example. There is. Thus, if the electronic device is not placed on the inductive charging pad in the correct orientation, it may not be able to fully charge or receive a charge. Also, if the electronic device is not charged as expected after using the charging mat, the user may be frustrated, which may impair the reliability of the charging mat.

  Thus, there is a need for an economical application of a charging surface that allows low power wireless charging without requiring a specific orientation to provide sufficient charging.

SUMMARY In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, the method applying an RF signal to a charging surface having a plurality of unit cells, from at least one of the unit cells. Including RF energy present inside the unit cell on the charging surface to charge the electronic device in response to the electronic device antenna being placed within the near field distance. Unit cells may be at least partially periodic structures, which may be locally periodic while being adaptive as a function of position within the periodic structure.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a charging surface device, wherein the charging surface device is a circuit configured to generate an RF signal and a plurality of unit cells to receive the RF signal, and An RF energy signal is present to charge the electronic device in response to the electronic device antenna being positioned within a near field distance measured from at least one surface of the plurality of unit cells. And a plurality of unit cells.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, wherein the method applies an RF signal to a plurality of unit cells on a charging surface and transmits the RF energy signal to the interior of the unit cell on the charging surface. And receiving an RF energy signal at the electronic device antenna when the electronic device antenna is disposed within a near field distance from at least one of the unit cells, and the antenna receiving the RF energy signal. Charging the battery of the electronic device in response to receiving.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a system that includes an RF circuit configured to generate an RF signal and a unit cell to receive the RF signal and in the absence of a receiver. Adaptive coupling comprising a plurality of unit cells configured to confine / preserve the RF energy signal within and to leak energy when the receiver is in the near field region of the surface A surface (here, a charging surface). The receiving circuit of the electronic device to be charged is such that when the antenna of the electronic device is placed within a near field distance from one or more of the unit cells (on the binding surface), The electronic device may be configured to charge in response to receiving the energy signal.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, the method comprising generating an RF signal and a patch antenna member of a unit cell (i.e., disposed within a binding surface; The patch antenna member or excitation element may be part of the coupling surface design (eg, one of the unit cells) or the excitation element is an additional element placed inside another unit cell The RF signal is applied by a conductive line extending through the via, the RF energy signal is generated in the unit cell by the patch antenna, and the electronic device antenna is removed from the unit cell. Leaking the RF energy signal from the unit cell to the antenna of the electronic device when placed within the near field distance.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a charging surface device that includes a plurality of unit cells configured to receive one or more RF signals, each unit cell comprising: (i) A patch antenna configured to receive one of one or more RF signals and generate an RF energy signal for charging the electronic device; and the antenna of the electronic device each unit cell And an opening configured to leak an RF energy signal from the unit cell when positioned within a near field distance from the unit cell.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging a device, wherein the method applies an RF signal to a plurality of unit cells on a charging surface and causes the RF energy signal to be internal to the unit cells on the charging surface. In response to the presence of the electronic device antenna within a near field distance from at least one of the plurality of unit cells, the harmonic screen filter element is used to generate the RF energy signal. Filtering to generate an RF energy signal for charging the electronic device.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a charging surface device, wherein the charging surface device is configured to receive an RF signal and one of the unit cells configured to generate an RF signal. Or a plurality of unit cells configured to have RF energy signals present therein, and an antenna of the electronic device disposed within a near field distance from at least one of the plurality of unit cells. A harmonic screen filter element configured to filter the RF energy signal to charge the electronic device in response.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for manufacturing a charging surface device, the method comprising coupling a circuit configured to generate an RF signal to a plurality of unit cells, and still a plurality of unit cells. Is configured to receive an RF signal and to have an RF energy signal present within one or more of the unit cells, and is close to at least one of the plurality of unit cells. Installing a harmonic screen filter element configured to filter the RF energy signal to charge the electronic device in response to the electronic device antenna being positioned within the field distance.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, the method comprising an antenna configured with a bandwidth including a center frequency and used to communicate a wireless signal. Receiving a wireless charging signal that operates at its center frequency, wherein the wireless charging signal is received from a charging surface disposed within a near field distance from the antenna, and the antenna receives power exceeding a threshold level. Responsive to determining that it is received, routing the received wireless charging signal to a rectifier to convert the wireless charging signal to a power signal.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a system, the system configured to determine power from a wireless charging signal received by an antenna used to communicate a wireless signal; The wireless charging signal is received by the antenna from a charging surface disposed within a near field distance from the antenna, and a comparison circuit configured to compare the power with a threshold level, and the received wireless charging signal A rectifier circuit configured to rectify and generate a rectified signal, a voltage converter configured to convert the rectified signal to a voltage for charging a rechargeable battery, and power threshold Switching circuitry configured to route the received wireless charging signal to the rectifier if the level is exceeded.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, the method receiving a signal indicating a request to charge the electronic device and responding to receiving the signal. Generating an RF signal, applying an RF signal to a plurality of unit cells on the charging surface, and causing an RF energy signal to be present in the unit cell on the charging surface to charge the electronic device; Leaking RF energy signals from the plurality of unit cells on the charging surface to the antenna of the electronic device when the antenna is disposed within a near field distance to at least one of the plurality of unit cells; Including.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a charging surface device that includes a control circuit configured to receive a signal indicating a request to charge an electronic device, each with an RF energy signal. A plurality of patch antennas configured to generate and an antenna of the electronic device are tuned to a center frequency and disposed within a near field distance from at least one of the plurality of unit cells. A plurality of unit cells configured to leak RF energy signals from the cell.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, the method generating a low power RF energy signal in a unit cell on a charging surface, and an antenna of the electronic device from the unit cell. When placed within a near field distance, leakage of a low power RF energy signal from the charging surface unit cell to the antenna of the electronic device and sensing of the low power RF energy signal in the charging surface unit cell Comparing the low power RF energy signal in the charging surface unit cell to a threshold level, and if the low power RF energy signal is below the threshold level, the next low power RF energy in the charging surface unit cell. Generating a signal.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a charging surface device that is configured to generate a low power RF energy signal and a feeding element, such as a patch antenna, and a feeding element, here a patch antenna. A low power RF energy signal when the electronic device antenna is not located within the near field distance from the unit cell, and the electronic device antenna is in the near field from the unit cell. A unit cell configured to leak a low power RF energy signal and a control circuit when sensing the low power RF energy signal in the unit cell If the low power RF energy signal is below the threshold, the patch antenna is stored in the unit cell Generating power RF energy signal, including a configured control circuit so.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, the method comprising: RF energy from a charging surface in response to the metal structure being disposed proximate to the surface of the charging surface. Leak the signal so that the RF energy signal enters the space formed between the surface of the charging surface and the metal structure, so that the antenna of the electronic device receives the leaked RF energy signal; Including routing the received RF energy signal to a rectifier to convert the RF energy signal and charging the rechargeable battery.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, wherein the method applies an RF signal to a plurality of unit cells on a charging surface, and the RF energy signal is internal to the unit cell on the charging surface. The presence of the RF energy signal from one or more of the unit cells and the metal of the electronic device disposed within a near field distance from the surface of the charging surface and one or more of the unit cells Leaking into a gap formed with the portion so that the antenna of the electronic device receives an RF energy signal to charge the electronic device.

  In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a charging surface device, the charging surface device including a circuit configured to generate an RF signal and a plurality of unit cells, wherein the plurality of unit cells are RF signals. And leakage of an RF energy signal from one or more of the unit cells into a cavity / gap formed between the surface of the charging surface and the metal portion of the electronic device, To charge an electronic device located within a near field distance from one or more of the unit cells by causing the antenna of the device to receive an RF energy signal to charge the electronic device The RF energy signal is configured to be present in the unit cell.

  In one embodiment, a system for wireless power transfer is a first device, a first antenna configured to receive one or more RF signals from a charging surface, and the first device A second antenna configured to transmit and receive one or more RF signals to one or more devices proximate to the first device, and a second device, A first device configured to receive one or more RF signals from one device and a second device in the proximity of the first device when the second device is in proximity to the first device. A second device including a battery configured to be charged in response to receiving one or more RF signals from the first device.

  In one embodiment, a method for wireless power transfer includes transmitting one or more RF signals by a first device antenna to a second device proximate to the first device; The second device when the first device configured to receive one or more RF signals from the first device and the second device are proximate to the first device. A battery configured to be charged in response to receiving one or more RF signals from the first device.

  In one embodiment, the wireless device is configured to receive one or more RF signals from the charging surface and one or more wireless devices adjacent to the first antenna and the wireless device. And a second antenna configured to transmit and receive a plurality of different RF signals. The wireless device is configured to convert RF energy into electrical energy to charge the battery.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are schematic and may not be drawn to scale. The drawings represent embodiments of the present disclosure, unless indicated to represent prior art.

6 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an electronic device disposed on an exemplary charging surface that generates an RF energy signal to charge the electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is an exemplary table including a surface on which an electronic device is placed, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary charging surface for generating an RF energy signal to charge an electronic device, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of an exemplary charging surface according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating more detailed operation of an exemplary charging surface according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. 1 is a schematic diagram of an example electronic device for receiving an RF energy signal generated by a charging surface, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of an exemplary electronic device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a circuit representing a charging surface when no electronic device is placed within the near field distance. FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a circuit representing a charging surface when an electronic device is placed within a near field distance. Fig. 4 shows a schematic model of an equivalent circuit with two states of energy flow when the electronic device is not arranged within the near field distance of the charging surface and when it is arranged. FIG. 4D is an alternative representation of the schematic model of FIG. 4C. FIG. 4 shows a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a charging surface antenna portion including two substrate layers, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a charging portion of a charging surface that includes two substrate layers (ie, a slot made in the ground plane of the surface) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a unit cell used for the antenna portion of the charging surface shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. FIG. 5D is an overhead view of the exemplary embodiment of the unit cell shown in FIG. 5C, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a charging surface antenna portion formed using a single substrate layer, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a charging surface antenna portion formed using a single substrate layer, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a unit cell that includes a portion of the antenna portion of the charging surface shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6D shows an overhead view of the exemplary embodiment of the unit cell shown in FIG. 6C according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary charging surface including a plurality of unit cells. FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of an electronic device positioned within a near field distance from a charging surface, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7B illustrates an exemplary electronic schematic of the electronic device of FIG. 7A. 6 illustrates an exemplary RF energy signal resonance located between an electronic device having a metal surface and a surface of a charging device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 shows a more detailed schematic diagram of a charging surface that provides a resonant coupler for charging an electronic device, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 shows a more detailed schematic diagram of a charging surface that provides a resonant coupler for charging an electronic device, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 shows a more detailed schematic diagram of a charging surface that provides a resonant coupler for charging an electronic device, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of an exemplary method for charging an electronic device using a charging surface according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the electronic device communicates a signal indicating a request to charge, or Otherwise it is paired with the charging surface. 6 shows a flowchart of an exemplary method for charging an electronic device using a charging surface when the electronic device does not communicate a signal indicating a request to charge, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a charging surface unit cell having a harmonic screen filter element, the harmonic screen filter element being disposed on or above the upper surface of the unit cell. FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a charging surface unit cell having a harmonic screen filter element (although the harmonic filter screen may be made from a periodic unit cell), a harmonic screen filter; The element is disposed on or above the upper surface of the unit cell. FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a charging surface unit cell having a harmonic screen filter element, the harmonic screen filter element being disposed within a substrate layer of the unit cell. FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a charging surface unit cell having a harmonic screen filter element, the harmonic screen filter element being disposed within a substrate layer of the unit cell. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating wireless power transmission between multiple devices according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating wireless power transmission between multiple devices according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of wireless power transmission between a plurality of devices according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof. The drawings may not be to scale or proportions, and in the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be used and / or other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

Wireless Charging and High Impedance Surface FIG. 1A illustrates one embodiment of the present disclosure related to a charging surface, in which an exemplary electronic device 104 is disposed on an exemplary charging surface 102; The exemplary charging surface 102 generates a radio frequency (RF) energy signal for charging the electronic device 104. Although the charging surface 102 is shown as a pad, the charging surface 102 may have any form, such as a desktop surface or part thereof, a housing of another electronic or non-electronic device, or a book It should be understood that it may be any other surface capable of performing RF charging via a near field RF signal to charge or power an electronic device, as described herein. When the charging surface 102 is disposed within the near field distance (eg, preferably less than about 4 mm) of the electronic device 104, and more specifically the antenna of the electronic device 104, the electronic device One or more RF energy signals for wireless power transfer received by 104 may be generated. Depending on the application and configuration of the charging surface 102, alternative near field distances, both distances greater than 4 mm and distances shorter than 4 mm, may be utilized. The received RF energy signal is then converted to a power signal by a power converter circuit (eg, a rectifier circuit) (not shown) to charge the battery of the electronic device 104. In some embodiments, the total power output by charging surface 102 is 1 watt or less to comply with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules Part 15 (Low Power, Unauthorized Transmitter).

  In some embodiments, the electronic device 104 may include any electronic device that includes an RF power conversion component as described herein. For example, the electronic device can be any of a variety of portable technologies such as tablets, laptops, cell phones, PDAs, or wearable devices such as smart watches, fitness devices, headsets, or the principles described herein. Can be rechargeable or operable using any other portable, mobile, or other electronic device technology.

  In some embodiments, the charging surface 102 may include a housing defined by a plurality of sidewalls 106, a top surface 108, and a bottom surface (not shown). The top surface 108 extends over the bottom surface. The side wall 106 spans between the top surface 108 and the bottom surface. In some embodiments, the housing is formed of plastic, but alternatively or additionally, other materials such as wood, metal, rubber, glass, or the functions described herein may be provided. It can also be formed from other possible materials. As shown in FIG. 1A, the charging surface 102 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, but other two-dimensional or three-dimensional shapes such as a cube, a sphere, a hemisphere, a dome, a cone, a pyramid, or Any other polygonal or non-polygonal shape is possible, whether open or closed. In some embodiments, the housing is waterproof or water resistant. Charging surface 102 may be rigid or flexible and optionally includes a non-slip bottom surface to prevent movement when placed on a desk or table. is there. Similarly, the top surface 108 includes an anti-slip area (eg, a strip) (not shown) or is generally anti-slip treated to prevent movement between the surface 108 and the electronic device. Sometimes. In addition, a fixture or other guide can be attached to the top surface 108 to help the user position the electronic device. The housing can house various components of the charging surface 102, which are described in further detail herein. Note that the charging surface may be made of a thermally conductive material (eg, aluminum nitride) to absorb heat from the receiving device. Further, the entire bonding surface may be made from a high DK (ie, high dielectric permittivity) plastic / ceramic that may be used to shape the unit cell to form the surface.

  As described in more detail below, the charging surface 102 may include a plurality of unit cell antennas that are at least partially formed from a substrate material. The substrate is a metamaterial (ie, a patch, dipole, or slot, etc. that is small relative to the wavelength of the transmitted signal, such as FR4, Rogers, ceramic, or any other material known in the art Artificial materials made using the elements of The unit cell is designed to hold an RF energy signal that is used to charge the electronic device 104 prior to the electronic device 104 being placed on the charging surface 102. That is, if there is no antenna of the electronic device 104 located within the near field distance, or the antenna of the electronic device 104 is not tuned to receive the RF energy signal or otherwise configured. If not, the unit cell does not leak RF energy signals or has minimal leakage. However, the unit cell may have a receiving antenna located within a near field distance from the unit cell and tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal (or otherwise to receive the RF energy signal). If configured, it is adaptively configured to allow the RF energy signal to leak from the unit cell to the antenna of the electronic device 104. In this disclosure, one embodiment of an antenna is considered “tuned” to a particular frequency if leakage of the RF energy signal from the charging surface 102 with metamaterial occurs. One or more surfaces of the unit cell can be formed using a metamaterial. For example, depending on the design criteria, the ground plane, antenna patch, and / or both can be formed of a metamaterial.

  In the unit cell configuration of the charging surface 102, the unit cell has a frequency signal generated and propagated within the substrate of the unit cell prior to the electronic device 104 being placed in the near field of the charging surface 102. In order to be held inside the charging surface 102, it may be periodically arranged with a predetermined size. That is, when the antenna of the electronic device 104 is placed in the near field of the charging surface 102, the charging surface is caused by the electrical properties of capacitance and inductance being brought into the unit cell surface by the electronic device. Changes in the boundary conditions occur (see FIGS. 4A and 4B).

  The surface can be designed such that electromagnetic tuning results in allowing leakage at a particular unit cell within the near field distance of the antenna on the charging surface 102. When properly “tuned”, the RF energy signal is retained within the unit cell substrate of the charging surface 102 and leakage does not occur or is minimized. In the absence of an antenna in the near field of the charging surface 102, the RF energy signal is reflected from the surface of the charging surface 102 so that leakage does not occur or is minimized. Also, if the antenna of the electronic device 104 is in the near field of the charging surface 102, when properly “tuned”, the surface characteristics of the charging surface 102 change and the signal is united at the antenna location of the electronic device 104. Aligned with the slot dipole or other feature of the cell, leakage can occur at that location. If a different frequency is to be used, the unit cell of the charging surface 102 may be resized to avoid leakage corresponding to this different frequency. As an example, if higher frequencies are used, it is necessary to include smaller unit cells to provide similar performance.

  With reference to FIG. 1B, a diagram of an exemplary table 110 is shown that includes a surface 112 on which an electronic device 114 is disposed. The surface 112 may be configured to operate fully or partially as a charging surface utilizing the same or similar principles and configuration as the charging surface 102. For example, the electronic device 114 may be placed on the charging surface 112 by providing furniture that includes a charging surface that is independent of a separate charging device or external pad as shown in FIG. 1A. And charged. It should be understood that a wide variety of devices, furniture, and / or structures can be configured to include a charging surface on one or more surface areas of the devices, furniture, and / or structures. . It should be understood that although a horizontal surface is desirable, alternative angled surfaces can be provided.

  As shown, the antenna layer 116 provides the same or similar structure as the charging surface 102 so that an antenna tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal is placed within the near field distance of the charging surface 102. In response, the RF energy signal can be leaked from the charging surface 102. In one embodiment, the entire charging surface 112 is not configured to charge the electronic device operably, but a portion of the charging surface 112 performs a charging function, as described herein. May be configured to do.

  FIG. 2A shows a schematic diagram 200 of various components including one embodiment of the charging surface 102 of FIG. 1A. Charging surface 102 includes a housing 202, which includes an antenna element 204 (shown as antenna elements 204a-204n), a digital signal processor (DSP) or microcontroller 208, and an optional communication component 210. Sometimes. The housing 202 may be made from any suitable material that allows transmission and / or reception of signals or waves, such as plastic or hard rubber. The antenna elements 204 are each disposed within one of the unit cells of the charging surface 102 and may include a suitable antenna type to operate in a frequency band such as 900 MHz, 2.5 GHz, or 5.8 GHz. Because these frequency bands comply with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Regulation 18th edition (Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) equipment). Other frequencies and multiple frequencies are possible. Suitable antenna types include, for example, patch antennas having a height of about 1/24 inch (about 0.1 centimeter) to about 1 inch (2.54 centimeter) and a width of about 1/24 inch to about 1 inch. May be included. For example, other types of antenna elements 204 such as, among other things, metamaterials and dipole antennas can be used.

  In one embodiment, the microcontroller 208 may include circuitry for generating and controlling RF transmissions using the antenna element 204. These RF signals are generated using an RF circuit (not shown) including a local oscillator chip (not shown) using appropriate piezoelectric materials, filters, and other components, and an external power supply 212. Can do. These RF signals are then connected to the antenna 204, causing an RF energy signal to be present in the unit cell of the charging surface 102. The microcontroller 208 determines the time to generate the RF signal and the information transmitted by the receiver through its own antenna elements to ensure that the resulting RF energy signal generates the appropriate power level. Can be processed. In some embodiments, this uses a communication component 210 configured to cause an RF energy signal to be generated within a desired frequency range, as described above and as understood in the art. And can be achieved. An alternative configuration may utilize a non-local signal generator (ie, external to the charging surface 102) rather than using a local signal generator.

  In some embodiments, a power amplifier (not shown) and a gain control circuit (not shown) may be applied to each antenna 204. However, considering the number of antennas that can be used in the charging surface 102, an RF signal (charging) is generated to generate an RF energy signal (a signal applied to the antenna 204) to power each of the plurality of antennas 204. Using one or more power amplifiers to amplify the RF signal that is supplied to the surface 102 or generated within the charging surface 102 allows for circuit reduction and lower cost. In one particular embodiment, four RF input ports (not shown) may be used to power the antenna 204 on the charging surface 102. In the charging surface 102 design, a single RF input port or RF generator inside the charging surface 102 can support a specific number or ratio of antennas 204.

  In one embodiment, the communication component 210 may include a standard wireless communication protocol such as Bluetooth® or ZigBee®. In addition, the communication component 210 can be used to transmit other data, such as an identifier for the electronic device 104 or surface 102, battery level, location, charging data, or other such data. Other communication components are possible and may include a frequency sensing device for sonic triangulation to determine the position of the electronic device 104, a radar, or an infrared camera.

  In one embodiment, in response to the communication component receiving a wireless signal (eg, a Bluetooth signal) from an electronic device that is to be charged by the charging surface 102, the microcontroller 208 may 214 can be used to cause the communication component 210 to generate an RF energy signal 216 that will be applied to the antenna 204 in a responsive manner. In an alternative embodiment, the communication component may have its own RF circuit and antenna to receive wireless signals, and the microcontroller causes charging RF energy to be applied to the antenna. In such a configuration, the RF port (see FIGS. 5B and 6B) is electrically conductive to allow the RF signal to be transmitted to the communication component 210 for processing and for transmission to the antenna 204. The body can be provided. In yet another embodiment, a separate device receives a radio signal from the charging surface 102, such as a battery pack, a protective case for a portable device, or any other device that can be used to charge or power an electronic device. RF circuits and antennas may be included.

  In one embodiment, a separate antenna (not shown) receives the RF signal and communicates the received RF signal to the communication component 210 for processing and / or routing directly to the antenna 204. May be configured as follows. By using a separate antenna, as described herein, charging remotely from a far field transmitter that transmits an RF charging signal to the charging surface 102 to charge or power the electronic device in a near field manner The surface 102 can be made operable.

  The power source 212 may be provided via a connection (eg, a USB or micro USB connection) to a laptop, wall charger, internal battery, external battery, or other power source. The power source 212 may be used to power circuitry on or at the charging surface 102.

  FIG. 2B is a flowchart 250 illustrating the general operation of the charging surface 102 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. At step 252, the charging surface 102 generates an RF energy signal within one or more of the unit cells of the charging surface 102. The unit cell is tuned so that there is no antenna of the electronic device 104 located within the near field distance from any of the unit cell antennas 204, or the antenna of the electronic device 104 receives an RF energy signal. Substantially all of the RF energy signal used to charge the electronic device 104 (eg, −30 dB below the RF energy signal) if not configured or otherwise configured Less). At step 254, the unit cell is configured such that the antenna of the electronic device 104 is (i) placed within a near field distance from one of the unit cell antennas 204, and (ii) tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal. If so, (or otherwise configured to receive the RF energy signal), it is adapted to leak the RF energy signal from the unit cell to the antenna of the electronic device 104. This adaptation of the unit cell to allow the RF energy signal to leak is the result of the capacitive inductance element (antenna) being placed in one or more near field of the unit cell. This process continues to charge the electronic device 104.

  FIG. 2C is a flow diagram illustrating a more detailed process 260 of an exemplary charging surface according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Process 260 may begin at step 262, where an RF energy signal may be provided at the charging surface. This RF energy signal can be an RF energy signal that is contained (contained / stored) within the substrate of the charging surface or that is supplied to the charging surface by propagating through the substrate. In an alternative embodiment, rather than supplying an RF energy signal to the charging surface, the RF energy signal is detected until a change in capacitance, inductance, or RF signal is sensed at the charging surface by passive or active electronic devices. The RF signal used to propagate the signal in the substrate may be turned off. In some embodiments, the RF energy signal is intermittently turned on until it is determined that the electronic device is located close to the charging surface or is actually within the near field of the charging surface. Or may be turned on at a low power level.

  At step 264, the RF antenna of the electronic device may enter the near field of the charging surface. Near field is the range over which the charging surface can leak an RF energy signal from the surface in response to changes in capacitance and / or inductance near the charging surface, as further described herein. It can be.

  In step 266, in response to the RF antenna entering the near-field of the charging surface, the RF energy signal can leak from the charging surface. As an example, if the amount of RF energy in the RF energy signal distributed and propagated inside the substrate on the charging surface is 5 W, the RF energy signal is transmitted to the antenna location of the electronic device within the near field of the charging surface (eg, 1 May be leaked so that 5 W is applied to the antenna that enters the near field of the charging surface. As will be appreciated in the art, the amount of charge resulting from being in the near field of the charging surface is based on the amount of coupling between the two antennas. For example, when the coupling ratio is 1, a loss of 0 dB occurs. For example, when the coupling ratio is 0.5, a loss of 3 dB occurs.

  When the RF antenna exits the near-field of the charging surface at step 268, the RF energy signal stops leaking from the charging surface at step 270. At that time, the RF energy signal is again confined / stored inside the substrate on the charging surface. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the RF signal applied to the charging surface to generate the RF energy signal is turned off to save power.

  FIG. 3A shows a schematic 300 of various components, including one embodiment of the electronic device 104. The electronic device 104 may include a receiving component 302, one or more antennas 304, a battery 312 to be charged in accordance with the present disclosure, and an optional communication component 310. In some embodiments, the communication component 310 may be included within the receiving component 302. In some embodiments, the receiving component 302 includes a circuit that includes one or more switch elements 305, a rectifier 306, and a power converter 308, which may be coupled. . Receiver 302 may be located within electronic device 104 and connected to electronic device antenna 304, battery 312, and optional communication component 310. In some embodiments, the receiving component 302 may include a housing made from any suitable material that allows transmission and / or reception of signals or waves, such as plastic or hard rubber.

  The antenna 304 of the device may include a suitable antenna type to operate in a frequency band similar to that described above with respect to FIG. 2A. In some embodiments, device antenna 304 includes an antenna designed for Wi-Fi data communication with electronic device 104 and an antenna designed for wireless data communication related to electrical communication of electronic device 104. Sometimes. The antenna 304 may be conventional and unique to the electronic device 104, such as an antenna produced readily available for consumer use. In some embodiments, the antenna 304 of the device operating in the frequency band as described above satisfies at least two purposes. One exemplary purpose is to facilitate data communication with the electronic device 104 via a wireless standard, such as Bluetooth or WLAN, for communication of user data as well as for data related to the wireless charging function. That is. The second purpose is to receive the RF charging signal from the charging surface and provide this signal to the receiving component 302. In such an embodiment, the antenna 304 of the device serves two functions and there is no separate dedicated antenna for receiving the wireless charging signal.

  However, in other embodiments, the electronic device 104 may include two sets of antennas. The first set of one or more antennas is for facilitating wireless data communication, such as via Bluetooth or WLAN, for communication of user data as well as data related to wireless charging operations. The second set of one or more antennas is for receiving an RF wireless charging signal and providing this signal to the receiving component 302. In these embodiments, one set of antennas is dedicated to receiving RF charging signals. Note that in this embodiment, using separate sets of antennas allows data communications and RF charging to operate at different frequencies if desired.

  The charging surface has a specific operating frequency band. Depending on the operating frequency band of the antenna of the electronic device 104, the antenna of the electronic device 104 should be within the operating frequency band of the charging surface so that power transmission is performed in the near field. As an example, if the RF frequency of the RF energy signal operates within the Wi-Fi frequency band, the mobile communication antenna does not cause leakage of the RF energy signal because it is outside the frequency band of the charging surface. In one embodiment, separate devices such as antennas, power converters, and power packs with batteries are configured to operate at frequencies outside the frequency band of conventional mobile communications (eg, GSM, LTE, etc.). can do. As an example, the charging surface can be configured to operate over an unlicensed frequency band, and the power pack can also be configured to operate over that frequency band, so that the charging surface Communication is not affected when charging.

  In some embodiments, the receiving component 302 may incorporate an antenna (not shown) that is used in place of or in addition to the electronic device antenna 304. In such embodiments, a suitable antenna type is a patch antenna that is about 1/24 inches to about 1 inch high and about 1/24 inches to about 1 inch wide, or an RF energy signal generated by the charging surface 102. May include any other antenna, such as a dipole antenna. Alternative dimensions may be utilized depending on the frequency transmitted by the antenna. In any case, regardless of whether the original device antenna 304 is used or an additional antenna built into the receiver 302 is used, the antenna is placed within a near field distance from the charging surface 102. It should then be tuned to receive the RF energy signal generated by the charging surface 102 or otherwise configured to receive it. In some embodiments, the receiving component 302 may include circuitry that causes a warning signal to indicate that an RF energy signal has been received. The warning signal may include, for example, a visual, audio, or physical indication. In an alternative embodiment, rather than using an antenna that is internal to the electronic device, a separate, such as a “backpack” for an electronic device (eg, a mobile phone) that may simultaneously operate as an example as a protective case The charging device may include an antenna in addition to the power conversion electronics that convert the RF energy signal to a DC power signal.

  The switch element 305 can detect an RF energy signal received by one or more of the antennas 304, and if the detected signal corresponds to a power level that exceeds a threshold, this signal is rectified by the rectifier 306. Can lead to. The switch element may be formed from a diode, transistor, or other electronic device, which may be utilized to determine an absolute or average power level at this power level Causes the switch element 305 to route the signal from the receiver to the rectifier 306, thereby performing power conversion. For example, in some embodiments, the switch may direct the received RF energy signal to the rectifier 306 when the RF energy signal received at the antenna 304 indicates a wireless power transfer greater than 10 mW. In other embodiments, the switch may direct the received RF energy signal if the received RF energy signal indicates a wireless power transfer greater than 25 mW. This switching acts to prevent damage to the electronic components of the electronic device 104, such as a receiving circuit, by preventing application of a power surge. If the threshold power is not reached, the electronic device operates in a conventional manner.

  The rectifier 306 includes a diode, resistor, inductor, and / or capacitor to rectify the alternating current (AC) voltage generated by the antenna 304 into direct current (DC) voltage, as is understood in the art. In some embodiments, rectifier 306 and switch 305 may be placed as close as technically possible to antenna element 304 to minimize losses. After rectifying the AC voltage, the DC voltage may be adjusted and / or adjusted using the power converter 308. The power converter 308 can be a DC-DC converter that can help provide a constant voltage output to the electronic device, or battery 312 in this embodiment, regardless of input. A typical voltage output may be from about 0.5 volts to about 10 volts. Other voltage output levels are also available.

  An optional communication component 310, similar to that described above with respect to FIG. 2A, can be included in the electronic device 104 to communicate with the communication component 210 and other electronic devices. The communication component 310 may be integrated with the receiving component 302 or may be a separate component located within the electronic device 104. In some embodiments, the communication component 310 may be based on a standard wireless communication protocol that may include Bluetooth® or ZigBee®. Further, the communication component 310 can be used to communicate other data such as an identifier for the electronic device 104 or charging surface 102, battery level, location, power requirements specific to the electronic device 104, or other data. it can.

  FIG. 3B is a flowchart 350 illustrating the general operation of the electronic device 104 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. At step 352, antenna 304 is tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal (or otherwise configured to receive the RF energy signal) and one of the unit cell antennas 204 or When positioned within the near field distance, the antenna 304 receives an RF energy signal from one or more of the unit cells of the charging surface 102. At step 354, the receiving component 302 converts the received RF energy signal into a power signal that is used to charge the battery 312 of the device at step 356. Alternatively, rather than charging the battery, the power signal may directly power the circuitry of the electronic device, thereby allowing the electronic device to operate independently of the battery.

  FIG. 4A shows a schematic diagram of an electrical circuit model 400a representing the electrical state of the charging surface 102 when the electronic device 104 is not positioned within the near field distance from the charging surface 102. FIG. The electrical circuit model 400a includes a circuit 402 that represents the electromagnetic operation of the charging surface 102 when the antenna 304 of the electronic device is not positioned within a near field distance from the charging surface 102. The electrical circuit model 400a is pre-arranged because the charging surface 102 is not tuned as high impedance or otherwise operates without the electronic device antenna being located within the near field distance of the charging surface 102. And represents a model of the charging surface 102 that is configured not to leak or otherwise output RF signals.

  FIG. 4B illustrates the case where the electronic device 104 is positioned within a near field distance from the charging surface 102 and the antenna 304 of the electronic device 104 is tuned to the center frequency of the RF energy signal generated by the charging surface 102. , Shows a schematic diagram of an electrical circuit model 400b representing the electrical connection between the charging surface 102 and the electronic device 104. FIG. This electrical circuit model includes a circuit 404, which represents that the electronic device 104 is coupled to the circuit 402 of the charging surface 102 by electromagnetic force to cause a change in the electromagnetic operation of the charging surface 102. The electrical circuit model 400b is understood in the art and, as will be further described with respect to FIGS. 4C and 4D, the antenna of the electronic device can be used to tune the representative electrical circuit model 400b thanks to the coupling effect. 10 represents a model of the charging surface 102 configured to leak an RF signal when placed within a near field distance of 102 or to output the RF signal in another manner.

  FIG. 4C shows a schematic model of an equivalent circuit with two states of energy flow when the electronic device is not positioned and when it is positioned within the near field distance of the charging surface. In the first state, air causes a reflection of energy from the high impedance surface of the charging surface. In the second state, the inclusion of an antenna receiver in the near field of the surface creates an inductive coupling that allows the flow of energy through the high impedance surface of the charging surface. FIG. 4D shows an alternative representation of the schematic model of FIG. 4C. It should be understood that the models of FIGS. 4C and 4D are simplified and more complex models can be utilized to represent adaptive high impedance surfaces.

  Referring now to FIGS. 5A-5D, an exemplary embodiment of a charging surface antenna portion 500 is provided, in which the antenna portion 500 includes a plurality of unit cells 502 arranged in a matrix structure. . In some embodiments, each of the unit cells 502 includes two substrate layers 515a and 515b. In some embodiments, each upper substrate layer 515a of the unit cell 502 includes a metal portion 504 (eg, copper) that defines an opening 506 disposed on top of the unit cell 502. In some embodiments, the bottom substrate layer 515b of each unit cell 502 includes a patch antenna 510 that includes a metal patch 512 having electrical connections through the via 508 to the ground plane 514. In some embodiments, the ground plane 514 may be a metamaterial. In some embodiments, ground plane 514 is connected to RF port 505 as shown in FIG. 5B to conduct RF signals to unit cell 502.

  In some embodiments, the patch antenna 510 is configured to generate an RF energy signal that radiates within the upper substrate layer 515a. According to the present disclosure, the RF energy signal remains in the upper substrate layer 515a until it attenuates or is leaked to the antenna 304 (FIG. 3) of the electronic device disposed on the charging surface.

  In some embodiments, the size of the opening 506 is determined according to the periodic frequency of the RF energy signal so that an antenna tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal is in close proximity from at least one of the unit cells 502. Unless placed within a field distance (eg, less than about 4 mm), the RF energy signal does not leak from the opening 506 of each unit cell 502.

  6A-6D, an exemplary embodiment of a charging surface antenna portion 600 is provided, in which the antenna portion 600 is comprised of a plurality of unit cells 602 arranged in a matrix structure. Is done. In some embodiments, each of the unit cells 602 includes a single substrate layer 615 having a metal portion 604 (eg, copper) that defines an opening 606 disposed on top of the unit cell 602. In some embodiments, the unit cell 602 also includes a patch antenna 610 formed by a metal patch 612 having electrical connections through the via 608 to the ground plane 614. In some embodiments, the ground plane 614 may be physically and electrically connected to the RF port 605 as shown in FIG. 6B. In some embodiments, the RF port 605 may be used to provide an RF energy signal from an RF energy signal generator to be applied to each of the unit cells 602, and the ground plane 614 is connected to the ground of the RF port 605. May be electrically connected to the part.

  In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6A-6D, the patch antenna 610 is disposed inside the unit cell 602 such that the opening 606 is formed around the metal patch 612. In some embodiments, the patch antenna 610 is configured to propagate an RF energy signal from the top surface of the substrate layer 615. According to the present disclosure, the RF energy signal remains on or near the top surface of the substrate layer 615 until the RF energy signal is attenuated or received by the antenna 304 of the electronic device.

  In some embodiments, the size of the opening 606 is determined according to the periodic frequency of the RF energy signal generated by the patch antenna 610 so that an antenna tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal is out of the unit cell 602. RF energy signals will not leak from the opening 606 of the unit cell 602 or will be minimally leaked unless placed within a near field distance from at least one of the. The opening 606 is sized according to the frequency of the RF energy signal so that it is properly tuned to prevent leakage of the RF energy signal when the electronic device is not placed in the near field. There is. Note that the number of layers in a unit cell can vary depending on the application, and different numbers of layers provide different responses from the unit cell, resulting in different harmonic responses (eg, for different wireless power applications) Higher or shifted harmonic frequencies) may be provided.

  FIG. 6E shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary charging surface 620 that includes a plurality of unit cells 622a-622n (collectively 622). In some embodiments, unit cell 622 includes via 624, patch or slot 626, substrate 628, and surface element 630. In some embodiments, the surface element 630 includes a plurality of holes or patches 632a-632n (collectively 632). In some embodiments, the length and width of the unit cell 622 is between about 5 mm and about 10 mm. Note that alternative dimensions can be utilized as a function of the frequency propagated or confined / stored by the unit cell and / or the material used to form the substrate 622. In some embodiments, the substrate 628 may be formed from Rogers FR-4, ceramic, or other material. In some embodiments, the use of a substrate 628, such as ceramic, allows the unit cell dimensions to be smaller than would be possible if the substrate 628 was not used.

Resonant Resonant couplers may be formed when the device to be charged enables power transmission and operates as part of a charging system. For example, as further described with reference to FIGS. 7A and 8A to 8C, the charging device may be completed using a mobile phone having a metal case. In some embodiments, the charging system may operate in two different stages. The first stage allows the field to be fed into the first cavity through a feed point (eg, a slot on the ground plane) and confined within the structure of the first cavity. The first cavity may include a number of contact / leakage points that are activated when contacted or approached by an electronic device having a metal case. The second stage may operate when the electronic device is placed on the surface at the point of contact so that energy is drawn from a second cavity partially formed by the electronic device on top of the charging surface. Leak.

7A, 8A-8C illustrate cross-sectional views of an electronic device 104 disposed at a distance D within the near field distance D _NF from the charging surface 700, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the antenna 304 of the electronic device 104 is disposed at the distance D, and the distance D is within the near field distance _DNF . The RF energy signal generated by the charging surface 700 in the near field does not achieve a particular polarization before being received by the antenna 304 of the electronic device 104. In some embodiments, the near field distance D _NF is less than about 4 mm.

  In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 8A-8C, the electronic device 104 includes a back surface 701 that is generally formed from metal surfaces 702a, 702b, and 702c and includes defined gaps 704a and 704b, the defined gap 704a. And 704b are non-metallic and may be formed from plastic, glass, or any other material suitable to allow transmission and / or reception of signals or waves. The gaps 704a and 704b are located in the vicinity of the antenna 304 so that the antenna 304 can receive signals entering through the gaps 704a and 704b. The metal surfaces 702a, 702b, and 702c reflect the RF energy signal 802 as shown in FIG. 8A so that the RF energy signal 802 generated by the charging surface 700 is in at least one of the gaps 704a and 704b. Until it reaches or resonates within the cavity 706 formed between the top surface 708 of the charging surface 700 and one or more of the metal surfaces 702a, 702b, and 702c. The RF energy signal 802 moves or resonates as a wave confined in the cavity 706, eg, between the metal surface 702b and the top surface of the charging surface 700 (see FIG. 8A. RF between the two surfaces). Energy signal 802 is reflected). The gaps 704a and 704b are located above the charging surface 700, more specifically above one or more unit cells of the charging surface 700, so that the RF energy signal 802 moves zigzag through the cavity 706, One of the gaps 704a and 704b can be reached. When the RF energy signal 802 reaches the gap 704a, the RF energy signal 802 enters through the gap 704a and is received by the antenna 304 of the device.

  In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, the charging surface 700 is shown to include a cover 802, which includes a first cavity 804 a and a second cavity 804 b (collection). 804) is formed by a ground plane 806 separating the two cavities 804. The ground plane may be formed from a metamaterial, as described herein. The charging surface 700 may also include one or more contact points 810 that emit an RF energy signal. In operation, the first stage is that an RF energy signal is supplied to the first cavity 804a through a feed point (eg, a slot on the ground plane) and is confined within the structure of the first cavity 804a. to enable. The first cavity 804a may include a number of contact / leak points 810 that are activated when contacted by or near the electronic device having a metal case. . The second stage may operate when the electronic device is placed on the cover 802 at at least one of the contact points 810, so that the electronic device partially covers the cover 802 of the charging surface 700. Energy leaks out of the second cavity 804b formed in a conventional manner. Since this charging surface 700 uses only a few contact points 810, fewer power amplifiers are required to provide the RF energy signal, thereby lowering the cost than having more contact points. . In one embodiment, four contact points 810 can be utilized. However, it should be understood that the number of contact points may vary depending on the size of the area provided by the charging surface 700. When a large area (for example, a desk) is provided, more contact points 810 are provided. If a small area (eg, a pad) is provided, fewer contact points 810 are provided.

  In some embodiments as shown in FIGS. 7A and 8A, the metal surfaces 702a, 702b, and 702c are disposed substantially parallel to the top surface 708 of the charging surface 700. Although the RF energy signal 802 is represented in FIG. 8A as having a triangular wave reflection, the RF energy signal 802 may be reflected in other patterns, as is understood in the art. I want you to understand. As used herein, “move zigzag” refers to the movement of RF energy signals along or through a space or cavity by reflection from the surface.

  FIG. 8D shows that the electronic device 104 is disposed on the charging surface 700. As the electronics are disposed on the charging surface 700, an energy flow 812 from the RF energy signal is generated in the cavity formed by the electronic device 104 and the charging surface.

  FIG. 7B shows an exemplary electronic schematic of the electronic device 104 of FIG. 7A. Electronic device 104 is shown to include two gaps 704 disposed therein such that antenna 304 receives RF signal 706. The antenna 304 is in electrical communication with an RF integrated circuit (RF-IC) 708 via a conductor 710. The RF-IC 708 is shown to include a switch 712 and a rectifier 714. The switch 712 may be configured to route the RF signal 706 to the transceiver (XCVR) 716 when transmitting the signal. The transceiver 716 is a conventional transceiver used for user communications, as understood in the art. However, in response to RF signal 706 crossing a certain threshold level, such as 0.1 W or 0.25 W, switch 712 is activated and RF signal 706 causes one or more rectifiers 718 to pass through. It may be routed to the rectifier 714 that contains it. The switch 712 can be a solid state switch, as will be understood in the art. The output from the rectifier 714 may be routed to a battery 720 that is used to power the electronic device 104.

  Referring now to FIG. 9, an exemplary method for charging the electronic device 104 using the charging surface 700 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in the flowchart 900. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the charging surface 102 communicates with the electronic device 104 via respective communication components 210 and 310. At step 902, the charging surface communication component 210 receives a signal from the electronic device communication component 310 indicating a request to charge the electronic device 104. In some embodiments, this signal may include, for example, the identification of the electronic device 104, the battery level, the power requirements of the electronic device 104, or other information. For example, in some cases, electronic device 104 may be a device that has lower power requirements, such as, for example, a smart watch or other wearable technology. To avoid receiving large power surges that damage the smartwatch, the charging request can include extreme power, such as 0.5W. Alternative power levels are also available. Similarly, the electronic device 104 may have greater power requirements. In such cases, the charge request may include a larger power requirement, such as 5 W, for charging the electronic device 104.

  Rather than receiving an active charging request, the charging surface is charged by the electronic device, including but not limited to the presence or absence of a reflection of the RF energy signal transmitted by the charging surface. It may receive or sense any radio or radiated signal from the electronic device that indicates it is near the surface. Any receiver or sensor may be utilized to sense such signals from the electronic device. In an alternative embodiment, a proximity switch or pressure switch may be utilized to detect that the electronic device is proximate to or located on the charging surface. Further, a magnetic switch or an optical switch may be used.

  At step 904, the microcontroller 208 begins generating an RF energy signal according to the data provided in the charge request. For example, if the charging request indicates a power requirement for the electronic device 104, the microcontroller 208 causes the RF energy signal to be generated such that the power transmitted to the electronic device 104 matches the power requirement communicated in the charging request. . According to the smartwatch example described above, the microcontroller 208 can cause the charging surface 700 to generate an RF energy signal that can provide 0.5 W of wireless power transfer to the smartwatch. In one embodiment, an RF energy signal may be generated when an electronic device is sensed.

  As discussed herein, the RF energy signal is generated in the unit cell of the charging surface 700 and remains substantially in the unit cell until the RF energy signal decays or leaks. When antennas 304 tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal are placed within a near field distance from one or more of the unit cells, the unit cells receive the RF energy signal from antenna 304 at step 906. Allows to be leaked into.

  At step 908, the leaked RF energy signal is received by an antenna 304 that is tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal and located within a near field distance from the unit cell.

  At step 910, the received RF energy signal is converted to a power signal to charge the battery 312 of the electronic device 104. This step includes detecting an RF energy signal received at antenna 304, activating switch mechanism 305 when the RF energy signal indicates a power signal greater than a threshold (eg, 10 mW), and rectifier 306 Rectifying the signal via the converter and converting the rectified signal to a DC power signal via the converter 308. Then, at step 912, the power signal is used to charge or operate the battery 312 of the electronic device.

  Although not shown in the flowchart 900, in some embodiments, the communication component 310 may send a signal to the charging surface 700 requesting that charging be interrupted or stopped. For example, if the battery 312 of the electronic device 104 is fully charged or reaches a desired charge level, if the electronic device 104 is turned off, the communication component 310 is turned off or the communication component 210. May occur when the user moves out of the communication range with the PC or for other reasons. In another embodiment, the communication component 210 may be turned off if the electronic device is no longer sensed electrically, physically, or otherwise depending on the sensor utilized.

  Referring now to FIG. 10, an exemplary method for sensing and charging the presence of the electronic device 104 using the charging surface 700 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in the flowchart 1000. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, electronic device 104 does not communicate with charging surface 102 via respective communication components 210 and 310. This embodiment represents the case where the electronic device 104 is turned off, has an empty battery, or cannot communicate with the charging surface 700 for another reason. Thus, in this embodiment, charging surface 700 operates in a manner that does not cause undetected electronic device 104 to overflow with excessive power. This is an aspect that can charge a receiver that has a dead battery and therefore cannot communicate with the transmitter.

  At step 1002, the charging surface 700 generates a low power RF energy signal, which is an RF energy signal that can provide wireless low power transmission to the electronic device 104. Specifically, the microcontroller 208 initiates the generation of a low power RF energy signal so that the power that can be transmitted via the low power RF energy signal is “low power”. For example, in some embodiments, the low power is 1W. Alternative power levels are also available. In some embodiments, detecting that the electronic device is located within the near field distance of the charging surface is accomplished by operating the unit cell patch antenna 204 with a 1% duty cycle. Can do.

  According to the present disclosure, a low power RF energy signal is generated in the unit cell of charging surface 700 and remains in the unit cell until the low power RF energy signal decays or leaks. If antennas 304 (receiver) tuned to the frequency of the low power RF energy signal are placed within a near field distance from one or more of the unit cells, then at step 1004, the unit cells are , Allowing RF energy signals to be leaked to the antenna 304.

  At step 1006, the microcontroller 208 can sense a low power RF energy signal present in the unit cell. For example, in some embodiments, the microcontroller 208 may include a sensing circuit, such as an RF coupler, that can detect a “reflection” of a low power RF energy signal that is reflected, for example, within a unit cell. Represents approximately 10% of the low power RF energy signal present. Accordingly, the microcontroller 208 can calculate the low power RF energy signal present in the unit cell based on the reflection value sensed by the microcontroller 208. The sensing performed in step 1006 is shown in order in FIG. 10, but the steps may be performed in any order or repeated continuously in parallel with the processing performed in flowchart 1000. Please understand that you may. The low power RF energy signal may be generated periodically or aperiodically, pulsed or otherwise, to determine whether an electronic device is present, as shown in FIG. 1000. is there.

  Once the microcontroller 208 senses a low power RF energy signal present in the unit cell, the sensed low power RF energy is compared to a threshold at step 1008 to obtain a subsequent low power RF energy signal in the unit cell. It is determined whether to generate. When the sensed low power RF energy signal is below a threshold, the low power RF energy signal is attenuated or tuned to the frequency of the low power RF energy signal and one of the unit cells or It shows a situation in which one of the leaked antennas is located within a near field distance. Thus, if the sensed low power RF energy signal is below the threshold, the process returns to step 1002 because the low power RF energy signal is presumed either leaked or attenuated, and the micro Controller 208 activates antenna 204 to generate a subsequent low power RF energy signal. Otherwise, if the reflection exceeds the threshold, the low power RF energy signal remains in the substrate and no subsequent RF signal is generated, so that the unit cell of the charging surface 700 does not continue to increase energy. Accordingly, the process returns to step 1006 and the microcontroller 208 continues to sense the low power RF energy signal present in the unit cell.

  The method illustrated in FIG. 10 illustrates a situation where the communication component 310 is not communicating with the charging surface 700. For example, the battery 312 of the electronic device 104 may be too depleted to operate the communication component 310. However, once the battery 312 is fully charged, the electronic device 104 may activate the communication component 310 in some embodiments. At that time, the communication component 310 may initiate communication with the communication component 210 of the charging surface 700, and the charging surface 700 may switch to the charging method illustrated in FIG. 9 and described above.

Harmonic filters In conventional power transmission systems, the various electronic elements that make up the system are often grouped together, and the losses experienced by each grouped element are combined, resulting in the system as a whole being an individual element. Receive a loss greater than the individual loss of. For example, if the system has a 90% efficiency antenna combined with an amplifier that is 90% efficient, the total efficiency of the system including these two elements is about 81%. As more elements are added, the overall efficiency of the system is further reduced. Thus, to increase the efficiency of the disclosed charging surface, some embodiments of the charging surface include a filter element, such as a harmonic filter, to reduce radiant energy at frequencies other than the intended wireless charging signal. In particular, the energy of the harmonics of the intended wireless charging signal can be reduced. For example, the harmonic filter can attenuate these frequency components by 40 dB to 70 dB.

  FIGS. 11A and 11B show a perspective view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of an exemplary unit cell 1102 that includes one embodiment of a charging surface 102, with each unit cell 1102 disposed on the top surface of the unit cell 1102. A harmonic filter element 1104 is included. The unit cell 1102 shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B is similar to that described above and shown in FIGS. 6A-6D, but the harmonic filter element 1104 is described above and shown in FIGS. 5A-5D. It may be located on the top surface of a unit cell of a different embodiment, such as the embodiment shown.

  Note that the harmonic filter element 1104 included in each unit cell 1102 may be a discontinuous filter element, or a larger single unit that spans the top surfaces of the plurality of unit cells 1102 that form the charging surface 102. May be part of a harmonic filter element. Thus, in such an embodiment, the charging surface 102 includes a harmonic filter element 1104 disposed on the unit cell 1102, so that the charging surface 102 is a matrix of transmit antennas (eg, patch antennas 610) ( Or a harmonic filter disposed on the array).

  In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, each of the unit cells 1102 includes a single substrate layer 615 and the harmonic filter element 1104 present in each of the unit cells 1102 is a top region of those unit cells 1102. Includes a single harmonic filter element spanning the whole. However, in other embodiments, the harmonic filter element 1104 may include a plurality of harmonic filter elements, one of the plurality of harmonic filter elements being one of the elements forming the unit cell 1102. Arranged on the top surface. Note that a unit cell having a harmonic rejection filter can be formed by a more complex unit cell, for example, a unit cell including more layers and features inside the unit cell. For example, this latter embodiment includes a harmonic filter element 1104 disposed on the top surface region of the patch antenna 610, a harmonic filter element 1104 disposed on the top surface region of the metal portion 604, and a harmonic covering the opening 606. This can be represented by the absence of the wave filter element.

  In some embodiments, the harmonic filter element 1104 is formed from two or more screen layers, each layer including a screen that removes specific harmonics of the intended wireless charging signal. The harmonic filter 1104 acts to filter the RF energy signal generated by the patch antenna 610 so that the RF energy signal operates at a specific frequency (also referred to herein as the center frequency). As a result of the harmonic filter element 1104 being a passive mechanical device, loss of signal power is reduced compared to electronic filters.

  FIGS. 12A and 12B show a perspective view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of a representative unit cell 1202 that includes one embodiment of the charging surface 102, with each unit cell 1202 within the upper substrate layer 515 a ( Or optionally, a harmonic filter element 1204 disposed between the top substrate layer 515a and the bottom substrate layer 515b. Note that the harmonic filter element 1204 included in each unit cell 1202 may be a discontinuous filter element, or a larger one that spans the upper substrate layer 515a of the plurality of unit cells 1202 forming the charging surface 102. May be part of a single harmonic filter element. Thus, in such an embodiment, the charging surface 102 includes a harmonic filter element 1204 disposed within the upper substrate layer 515a of the unit cell 1202, so that the charging surface 102 is a transmitting antenna (eg, a patch antenna). 510) of harmonic filters disposed on the matrix (or array).

  In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the unit cell 1202 includes an upper substrate layer 515a and a bottom substrate layer 515b, and the harmonic filter element 1204 present in each upper substrate layer 515a of the unit cell 1202 includes A single harmonic filter element that spans the entire region of the upper substrate layer 515a of the unit cell 1202. However, in other embodiments, the harmonic filter element 1204 may span only a portion of the top substrate layer 515a, so that the harmonic filter element 1204 is disposed within the bottom substrate layer 515b. It is arrange | positioned only above.

  In some embodiments, the harmonic filter element 1204 is formed from two or more screen layers, each layer including a screen that removes specific harmonics of the intended wireless charging signal. Harmonic filter 1204 serves to filter the RF energy signal generated by patch antenna 510 so that the RF energy signal operates at a particular frequency (also referred to herein as the center frequency). As a result of the harmonic filter element 1204 being a passive mechanical device, loss of signal power is reduced compared to electronic filters.

Stacking Receivers FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate components of a wireless charging system 1300 between a plurality of electronic devices 1302, 1304, according to an exemplary embodiment. For ease of explanation, FIGS. 13A and 13B show wireless power transfer between two devices 1302, 1304. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the wireless power transfer described herein can be performed between two or more electronic devices. In the exemplary embodiment, first electronic device 1302 can receive power from charging surface 1306 through near-field charging technology, and can then supply power to second electronic device 1304. In alternative embodiments, the first electronic device 1302 may receive power using other techniques, such as far field RF power transmission.

  As shown in FIG. 13A, in some embodiments, the electronic devices 1302, 1304 are stacked or otherwise placed in contact with each other, from the charging surface 1306 to the first device 1302, then the first Transmission of power from the device 1302 to the second device 1304 may be realized. As shown in FIG. 13B, the first device 1302 may receive power from the charging surface 1306 using near field power transfer technology, and then the first device 1302 uses far field power transfer technology. Then, power may be transmitted to the second device 1304.

  Near-field RF power transfer technology may include a transmitting charging surface 1306 that includes several physical layers, such as a cavity or substrate for confining RF energy, and an electronic device 1302. And a top surface for disposing 1304 thereon. The near-field charging surface may be configured to bring RF energy into the substrate or cavity layer, until the RF energy is brought in some physical state by the receiver antenna or electronic device 1302, 1304. Stay trapped. In some implementations, the RF energy can only be applied to the charging surface 1306 when an electronic device 1302, 1304 having a properly tuned receiving antenna is placed sufficiently close to the top surface to release the RF energy. Leak through the surface. In some embodiments, the RF energy remains “confined” in the substrate or cavity layer until the metal portion of the electronic device 1302, 1304 contacts the surface layer. Although other possible technologies can be used, near field technology means that RF energy is within the charging surface 1306 until any physical conditions are met by the receiving electronics 1302, 1304 or the receiving antenna. May generally refer to systems and methods that remain trapped. In many cases, this may have a working distance in the range from direct contact to about 10 millimeters. For example, if the operating distance is 1 millimeter, the first electronic device 1302 needs to be within 1 millimeter before RF energy is leaked from the substrate or cavity layer of the charging surface 1306.

  Far-field RF power transfer technology allows RF power waves over several distances where the transmitting device can range from less than 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) to more than 50 feet (15.24 meters). May include an array of one or more antennas (not shown) configured to transmit. For near-far-field power transmission, the transmitting device may be configured to transmit power waves within a limited distance, such as less than 12 inches (30.48 centimeters). This can, for example, require the receiving device to enter a proximity threshold from the transmitting device before the transmitting device transmits the power wave, or limit the effective range over which the power wave delivers power. Can be limited in any number of ways. In some implementations, a transmitting device that functions as a proximity transmitter may transmit a power wave to focus at or near a particular location, so that the power wave generates a constructive interference pattern. The receiving device may include an antenna and circuitry that can receive the resulting energy from the constructive interference pattern, and then the electronic device coupled to or including the receiving device. May be converted into usable alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) power.

  The electronic devices 1302, 1304 may be any electronic device that includes a near field and / or far field antenna capable of performing various processes and tasks described herein. For example, the first device 1302 and the second device 1304 may include antennas and circuits configured to generate, transmit, and / or receive RF energy using RF signals. In FIGS. 13A and 13B, the first device 1302 and the second device 1304 are shown as mobile phones. However, this should not be regarded as limiting the possible electronic devices 1302, 1304. Non-limiting examples of possible electronic devices 1302, 1304 include tablets, laptops, mobile phones, PDAs, smart watches, fitness devices, headsets, or recharging using the principles described herein. Any other device that can operate is mentioned.

  The charging surface 1306 can generate one or more RF energy signals for wireless power transmission that are confined within a substrate or cavity below the top surface of the charging surface 1306. When a properly tuned antenna of the first device 1302 is placed within a near field distance (eg, less than about 10 mm) from the charging surface 1306, the trapped RF energy is leaked through the top surface and the first Can be received by device 1302. Thus, a properly tuned antenna of the first device 1302 allows the RF signal confined within the charging surface 1306 to leak or radiate through the charging surface 1306 to the antenna of the first device 1302. Can be. The received RF energy signal is then converted to a power signal by a power converter circuit (eg, a rectifier circuit) to power or charge the battery of the first device 1302. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, charging surface 1306 is shown as a box-shaped device, but charging surface 1306 can have any form factor, form, and / or shape. I want you to understand. In some embodiments, the total power output by charging surface 1306 is 1 watt or less in order to comply with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules Part 15 (Low Power, Unauthorized Transmitter).

  Similar to the manner in which the charging surface 1306 can function as a transmitting device for the first electronic device 1302, the first electronic device 1302 functions similarly as a transmitting device for the second electronic device 1304. May be configured as follows.

  As shown in FIG. 13A, in some embodiments, the first device 1302 allows the first device 1302 to transmit the first energy until a properly tuned antenna leaks RF energy to the second device 1304 antenna. It may include components for near field RF charging surfaces, similar to charging surface 1306, that allow RF energy signals to be confined under the surface layer of device 1302.

  Additionally or alternatively, as shown in FIG. 13B, in some embodiments, the first device 1302 is configured to transmit one or more power waves to the antenna of the second electronic device 1304. It may be configured to function as a far field proximity transmitter that includes an array of one or more antennas.

  In some embodiments, the first device 1302 may include a communication component (not shown) for implementing wireless and / or wired communication with other devices, such as the second device 1304. In some cases, the communication component may be an embedded component of first device 1302. Also, in some cases, the communication component may be attached to the first device 1302 via any wired or wireless communication medium. The communication component is an electromechanical component (eg, processor, antenna) that enables the communication component to communicate communication signals including various types of data and messages with other devices, such as the second device 1304. May contain. These communication signals can represent separate channels for hosting communications that can communicate data using any number of wired or wireless protocols and associated hardware and software techniques. The communication component may operate based on any number of communication protocols such as Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Near Field Communication (NFC), ZigBee, and others. However, the communication components are not limited to radio frequency based technology and may include sound devices, radar devices, and near infrared devices for sonic triangulation of other devices such as second device 1304. I want you to understand.

  In operation, the communication component of the first device 1302 may receive a communication signal from the second portable device 1304, the communication signal being data that includes a request to receive power from the first device 1302. Is included. Additionally or alternatively, the first electronic device 1302 may receive one or more wirelessly broadcasted messages from the second device 1304 such that the first electronic device 1302 can receive the second Detecting the presence of a second electronic device 1304 and allowing the second electronic device 1304 to begin delivering power or allowing the substrate or cavity layer to begin to overflow with RF energy. Such a request message may also include device battery details such as device type, battery type and current battery charge, and data related to the current location of the device. In some implementations, the first electronic device 1302 uses the data contained in the message to transmit various operational parameters for transmitting or otherwise transferring RF energy to the second device 1304. The second device 1304 may capture this RF energy and convert it into usable alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) electricity.

  For example, if the first device 1302 functions as a near field charging surface, the first device 1302 first transmits a communication signal having a threshold signal strength indicating that the second device 1304 is within the threshold distance. When the communication component of the electronic device 1302 receives, it may be configured to send power (eg, engage, turn on, activate) to the near field charging surface within the first device 1302.

  As another example, if the first device 1302 functions as a far field proximity transmitter, the first device 1302 may use the communication signal received data from the second device 1304, and this communication signal The received data is used by the first device 1302 to locate the second device 1304 and determine whether the second electronic device 1304 is within a threshold distance from the first device 1304. Can do.

  Similarly, the communication component of the second device 1304 may use the communication signal to send a message to the first device 1302 requesting power to be transmitted to the first device 1302, for example, or another Exchange data that can be used to broadcast in a manner. This message includes, for example, battery power information, data indicating the current location, data information about the user of the second device 1304, information about the second device 1304 to be charged, indicating the efficiency of power reception, and , Requests to stop power delivery, as well as other types of useful data. Non-limiting examples of various types of information that can be included in the communication signal include beacon messages, device identifiers (device IDs) for the first device 1302, and user identifiers (user IDs) for the first device 1302. , The battery level of the second device 1304, the location of the second device 1304, and other such information.

  In some cases, when the second device 1304 enters within the near field distance of the first device 1302, where RF energy can be leaked and radiated from the first device 1302 to the second device 1304. These devices may establish a communication channel according to a wireless or wired communication protocol (eg, Bluetooth®) employed by the respective communication component of each device 1302, 1304. In some cases, when the second device 1304 enters the effective communication distance of the first device 1302 for a wired or wireless communication protocol employed by the communication component, the second device 1304 may be the first device 1302. And establish a communication channel. The near field distance causes the transmitting device (eg, charging surface 1306) to leak the confined RF wave signal and transmit it to an appropriately tuned receiving device (eg, first electronic device 1302). It can be defined as the minimum distance between the transmitting device and the receiving device. This near field distance may range from direct contact to about 10 millimeters. In some cases, the near-field distance may be the minimum distance between the transmitting device and the receiving device that allows one or more power waves to be transmitted to the receiving device. This can range up to about 12 inches (30.48 centimeters). In an alternative embodiment, any far field distance can be used.

  The antenna of the second device 1304 can capture energy from an RF signal leaked or radiated from the first device 1302 or from a power wave transmitted from the first device 1302. After an RF signal is received from a power wave from either the charging surface 1306 or the first device 1302 or from leakage, both the circuitry and other components of the first and second devices 1302, 1304 (e.g., Integrated circuits, amplifiers, rectifiers, voltage regulators) can then convert the energy of the RF signal (eg, radio frequency electromagnetic radiation) into electrical energy (ie, electricity), which is stored in the battery. Or power each electronic device 1302, 1304. In some cases, for example, the rectifier of the second device 1304 may convert electrical energy from AC to a form of DC that can be used by the second device 1304. Other types of adjustments may be applied in addition to or as an alternative to the AC to DC conversion. For example, a voltage regulator circuit, such as a voltage regulator, can increase or decrease the voltage of electrical energy as required by the second device 1304.

  In an alternative embodiment, the first device 1302 may send a charge request to the second device 1304. The charging request may include data regarding the user of the first device 1302, details of the first device 1302, the amount of battery charge of the first device 1304, and the current location of the first device 1302. Upon receiving the charging request, the second device 1304 can accept or reject the request. The second device 1304 provides additional details related to the user of the first device 1302, the details of the first device 1302, the battery charge of the first device 1302, the current location of the first device 1302. Although not limited to, a request may be made if such details are not present in the request. Upon accepting the request, the second device 1304 may determine the location of the first device 1302. The second device 1304 may use one or more techniques, such as sensor detection, thermal mapping detection, and others, to determine the location of the first device 1302. Once the position of the first device 1302 is determined, the second device 1304 may transmit an RF signal to the first device 1302, which may be the antenna of the first device 1302 and / or Captured by the circuit, the battery of the first device 1302 can be charged.

  Referring again to FIG. 13A, in some embodiments, the first device 1302 and the second device 1304 are positioned on top of each other to transmit power from each other, with or without the charging surface 1306. There is. In another embodiment, the first device 1302 and the second device 1304 are coplanar and placed in close proximity to each other, as shown in FIG. 13B, to transmit power from one or another device. Sometimes. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that power transfer between the first device 1302 and the second device 1304 occurs when the devices are within a near field distance from each other, regardless of their placement relative to each other. You will understand that.

  In one embodiment, the first device 1302 may receive power from the charging surface 1306 and simultaneously transmit power to a second device 1304 that is in its near field. In another embodiment, the first device 1302 receives power from any suitable power receiving source (eg, far field antenna) and simultaneously powers the second device 1304 within the near field distance. May be transmitted. In yet another embodiment, the first device 1302 and the second device 1304 may transmit power to a third device in their near field. In yet another embodiment, each of the first device 1302 and the second device 1304 transmits power individually or collectively to two or more devices within their near field.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of wireless power transmission between a plurality of apparatuses according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

  In step 1602, the second device enters the near field distance of the first device. In one embodiment, a user of the second device may manually place the second device within a near field distance from the first device. The near field distance may be less than about 10 mm. The first device and the second device may include circuitry configured to generate, transmit, and receive RF signals. The circuitry of the first device and the second device may include a plurality of unit cells, the plurality of unit cells configured to receive an RF signal.

  At step 1604, a communication channel is established between the second device and the first device. The first device and the second device may include a communication component, through which a communication channel may be established for transmitting data between each other. The communication component may operate based on any number of communication protocols such as Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Near Field Communication (NFC), ZigBee, and others.

  In one embodiment, a communication channel may be established between the first device and the second device before the second device enters the near field of the first device. In another embodiment, a communication channel may be established between the first device and the second device after the second device enters the near field of the first device.

  In step 1606, the second device sends a request to receive power to the first device via the communication channel to charge the battery. In another embodiment, the user of the second device sends a request to receive power to the first device via the user interface of the second device. In addition to this request, the second device includes, but is not limited to, a user of the second device, details of the second device, battery charge of the second device, or current location of the second device. May contain additional data that is not. Upon receiving the charge request, the first device can accept or reject the request. In another embodiment, the user of the first device may accept or reject the request via the user interface of the first device. A response to the request may be received on the user interface of the second device.

  At step 1608, the second device can charge the battery using the RF signal received from the first device. After accepting the request for the second device, the first device may determine the location of the second device. Once the position of the second device is determined, the first device may transmit an RF signal to the second device, which is captured by the antenna and / or circuitry of the second device. Thus, the battery of the second device can be charged.

  In some embodiments, initiation of power transfer from the first device to the second device is performed by a user of those devices on the user interface of the first and / or second device. The user can select when to start and stop wireless charging from one device to the other, and the user further selects which device is the transmitter and which is the receiver. be able to. Furthermore, the user can select the end of power transmission by selecting a target time, a target power level, and the like.

  The antenna of the second device can take energy from the RF signal, which can be formed by the resulting accumulation of the RF signal at that location. After the RF signal is received and / or energy is collected from the energy pocket, the second device circuit (eg, integrated circuit, amplifier, rectifier, voltage regulator) is the RF signal (eg, radio frequency). Electromagnetic energy) can be converted into electrical energy (ie, electricity), which can be stored in the battery of the second device.

  In one embodiment, the circuitry of the first device includes a plurality of unit cells configured to receive an RF signal, the plurality of unit cells having a second device antenna out of the unit cells. In response to being positioned within a distance of at least one near field of the RF device, the RF energy signal is configured to be present for charging the battery of the second device. In another embodiment, the circuit of the second device includes a plurality of unit cells configured to receive an RF signal, the plurality of unit cells having an antenna of the first device of the unit cells. Responsive to being positioned within at least one of the near field distances, an RF energy signal is configured to be present for charging the battery of the first device.

  The foregoing method descriptions and flow diagrams are provided merely as illustrative examples and are intended to require or imply that the steps of the various embodiments must be performed in the order presented. It was n’t. The steps in the foregoing embodiments may be performed in any order. Terms such as “then”, “next”, etc. are not intended to limit the order of the steps. These terms are only used to guide the reader through the description of the method. Although a process flow diagram may describe the operations as sequential steps, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or simultaneously. Furthermore, the order of operations can be rearranged. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, or the like. If the process corresponds to a function, its termination may correspond to returning the function to the calling function or main function.

  The various exemplary logic blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. it can. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability between hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. . Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Skilled craftsmen can implement the described functionality in a variety of ways for each specific application, but such implementation decisions are interpreted as causing deviations from the scope of the present invention. Should not.

  Embodiments implemented in computer software can be implemented in software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, etc., or any combination thereof. A code segment or machine-executable instruction may represent a procedure, function, subprogram, program, routine, subroutine, module, software package, class, or any combination of instructions, data structures, or program statements. A code segment may be coupled to another code segment or a hardware circuit by passing and / or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. may be passed, forwarded, or transmitted via any suitable means including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc.

  The actual software code or specialized control hardware used to implement these systems and methods is not limiting of the invention. Thus, the operation and behavior of the system and method without reference to specific software code that is understood that the software and control hardware can be designed to implement the system and method based on the description herein. Explained.

  If implemented in software, the functions may be stored as one or more instructions or code on a non-transitory computer-readable or processor-readable storage medium. The method or algorithm steps disclosed herein may be implemented in a processor-executable software module, which may be on a computer-readable or processor-readable storage medium. Non-transitory computer readable or processor readable media include both computer storage media and tangible storage media that facilitate moving a computer program from one place to another. A non-transitory processor readable storage medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such non-transitory processor readable media can be RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM, or other optical disk storage device, magnetic disk storage device, or other magnetic storage device, or instructions Or any other tangible storage medium that can be used to store the desired program code in the form of a data structure and that can be accessed by a computer or processor. As used herein, disk and disk include compact disk (CD), laser disk, optical disk, digital versatile disk (DVD), floppy disk, and Blu-ray disk. (Disk) usually reproduces data magnetically, and disk (disk) optically reproduces data using a laser. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media. Further, the operation of the method or algorithm may exist as one or any combination or collection of code and / or instructions on a non-transitory processor readable medium and / or computer readable medium that may be incorporated into a computer program product. There are things to do.

  The previous description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be used in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Can be applied. Accordingly, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is the broadest consistent with the following claims and the principles and novel features disclosed herein. Should be given a range.

While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed, other aspects and embodiments are also contemplated. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

Claims (45)

A wireless device,
A first antenna configured to receive one or more RF signals from a charging surface;
Transmitting one or more different RF signals to one or more wireless devices proximate to the wireless device and one or more different RF signals from one or more wireless devices proximate to the wireless device A second antenna configured to receive
The wireless device is configured to convert the one or more RF signals into electrical energy for charging a battery.   The wireless device is further configured to generate one or more additional RF signals for wireless charging of additional wireless devices of the one or more wireless devices that are separate from the wireless device. The wireless device according to claim 1 configured.   The wireless device further includes a plurality of unit cells, wherein the plurality of unit cells are responsive to the additional wireless device being located within a distance of at least one near field of the plurality of unit cells. The wireless device of claim 2, wherein an RF energy signal is present to charge the battery of the additional wireless device.   The wireless device of claim 3, wherein the near field distance is less than about 10 mm.   The wireless device is further configured to communicate data and messages via the second antenna with an additional wireless device of the one or more wireless devices that is separate from the wireless device. The wireless device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. A system for wireless power transmission,
A first electronic device, a first antenna configured to receive one or more RF signals from a charging surface, and one or more other in the vicinity of the first electronic device A first antenna comprising: a second antenna configured to transmit and receive one or more different RF signals to the electronic device; and a second electronic device, wherein the first electronic device includes: A third antenna configured to receive the one or more different RF signals from an electronic device, and the second antenna when the second electronic device is in the vicinity of the first electronic device. A second electronic device, comprising: a battery configured to be charged in response to the electronic device receiving the one or more different RF signals from the first electronic device. ,system.   The system of claim 6, wherein the first electronic device is configured to generate the one or more different RF signals.   The first electronic device is responsive to the third antenna of the second electronic device being disposed within a near field distance of at least one of the unit cells. The system of claim 7, wherein the system is configured to have an RF energy signal present to charge the battery of the electronic device.   The system of claim 6, wherein the second electronic device is configured to generate a separate RF signal.   The second electronic device includes a plurality of unit cells, and the plurality of unit cells includes the first antenna of the first electronic device and a near field of at least one of the plurality of unit cells. The system of claim 9, wherein the system is configured to cause the separate RF signal to be present in order to charge a battery of the first electronic device in response to being disposed within a distance of.   The system according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the second electronic device is disposed on the first electronic device.   11. The system according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the second electronic device and the first electronic device are arranged at a near field distance relative to each other on the same plane.   13. A system according to any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein the neighborhood is less than about 10 mm.   A communication channel is established between the first electronic device and the second electronic device for exchanging messages when the second electronic device is placed in proximity to the first electronic device. 14. The system according to any one of claims 6 to 13, wherein:   The system of claim 14, wherein the second electronic device transmits a request to receive power to the first electronic device via the communication channel. A method for wireless power transmission comprising:
Transmitting one or more RF signals by means of an antenna of the first electronic device to a second electronic device in the vicinity of the first electronic device;
The second electronic device includes:
A second antenna configured to receive the one or more RF signals from the first electronic device;
Responsive to the second electronic device receiving the one or more RF signals from the first electronic device when the second electronic device is in the vicinity of the first electronic device. And a battery configured to be charged.   The plurality of unit cells of the first electronic device are configured such that the second antenna of the second electronic device is disposed within a distance of the near field of at least one of the plurality of unit cells. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein in response, the RF signal is stored and an RF energy signal is present.   In the plurality of additional unit cells of the second electronic device, a third antenna of the first electronic device is disposed within a distance of the near field of at least one of the plurality of additional unit cells. 18. The method of any one of claims 16-17, wherein in response to receiving the RF signal, an RF energy signal is present.   The method according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the second electronic device is disposed on the first electronic device.   The method according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the second electronic device and the first electronic device are at a distance of the near field on the same plane.   21. The method of any one of claims 16-20, wherein the neighborhood is less than about 10 mm.   Establishing a communication channel between the first electronic device and the second electronic device for exchanging messages when the second electronic device is in the vicinity of the first electronic device; The method according to any one of claims 16 to 21, further comprising:   23. The method of claim 22, further comprising transmitting a request by the second electronic device to receive power over the communication channel to the first electronic device. A method for charging an electronic device comprising:
Applying an RF signal to the plurality of unit cells on the charging surface to cause an RF energy signal to be present within at least some of the unit cells on the charging surface;
Receiving the RF energy signal at the antenna of the electronic device when the antenna of the electronic device is disposed within a near field distance from at least one of the plurality of unit cells;
Charging the battery of the electronic device in response to the antenna receiving the RF energy signal.   25. The method of claim 24, wherein the RF energy signal is leaked to the antenna of the electronic device by at least one of the unit cells. The RF energy signal operates at a central frequency;
Leakage of the RF energy signal includes the plurality of antennas when the antenna is tuned to the center frequency and disposed within the near field distance from the at least one of the plurality of unit cells. 26. The method of claim 25, comprising leaking the RF energy signal by the at least one of the unit cells.   25. The method of claim 24, wherein the RF energy signal operates at a center frequency and is received at the antenna when the antenna is tuned to the center frequency.   28. The method of any one of claims 24-27, wherein the near field distance is less than about 4 mm.   29. A method according to any one of claims 24 to 28, wherein the electronic device rectifies the received RF energy signal before the battery is charged.   30. A method according to any one of claims 24 to 29, wherein the charging surface comprises a metamaterial.   The RF energy signal operates at a center frequency, and the plurality of unit cells on the charging surface have an antenna tuned to the center frequency in the near field from the at least one of the plurality of unit cells. 31. A method according to any one of claims 24 to 30, wherein the method is configured to retain the RF energy signal when not located within a distance.   32. The method of any one of claims 24-31, wherein applying the RF signal includes generating the RF energy signal using a patch antenna.   33. The method of claim 32, further comprising maintaining the RF energy signal in one or more of the plurality of unit cells on the charging surface.   34. The method of claim 33, wherein the RF energy signal is leaked by an at least one of the plurality of unit cells through an opening disposed in the at least one of the plurality of unit cells.   34. A method according to any one of claims 24 to 33, wherein the antenna from which the RF energy signal is received is located outside the electronic device. A system,
An RF circuit configured to generate an RF signal;
A charging surface comprising a plurality of unit cells configured to receive the RF signal and to have an RF energy signal present within at least some of the plurality of unit cells; ,
Responsive to the antenna of the electronic device receiving the RF energy signal when the antenna of the electronic device is disposed within a near field distance relative to one or more of the plurality of unit cells. And a receiving circuit configured to charge the electronic device.   The RF energy signal operates at a center frequency, and the plurality of unit cells on the charging surface cause the antenna of the electronic device to leak the RF energy signal when the antenna is tuned to the center frequency. 40. The system of claim 36, configured as follows.   38. The method of any one of claims 36 to 37, wherein the near field distance is less than about 4 mm.   39. A system according to any one of claims 36 to 38, wherein the receiving circuit comprises a rectifying circuit configured to rectify the received RF energy signal.   40. A system according to any one of claims 36 to 39, wherein the RF circuit comprises one or more patch antennas.   41. A system according to any one of claims 36 to 40, wherein the charging surface comprises a metamaterial.   The system according to any one of claims 36 to 41, wherein each unit cell of the plurality of unit cells includes a first substrate layer having a patch antenna and a second substrate layer having an opening.   42. Each unit cell of the plurality of unit cells includes a first substrate layer having a patch antenna and an opening disposed substantially around the patch antenna. The system described in.   The RF energy signal operates at a center frequency, and each unit cell of the plurality of unit cells has an antenna tuned to the center frequency at a distance of the near field from at least one of the plurality of unit cells. 44. A system according to any one of claims 36 to 43, configured to hold the RF energy signal when not disposed within. 45. The system according to any one of claims 36 to 44, wherein the antenna is located outside the electronic device.

Images