JP6912380B2 - Systems and methods for wireless power transfer - Google Patents

Description

Cross-reference of related applications
[0001] This application is a partial continuation application of US non-provisional patent application No. 13 / 891,430, entitled "Methodology For Pocket-Forming", filed on May 10, 2013, and is a continuation application of the United States Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 13 / 891,430. U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 720,798, entitled "Scalable Antonio Assemblies For Power Transfer," filed on 31st March, and "Receiving For Power Transfer, U.S.A.", filed on July 6, 2012. Claims the priority of patent application No. 61 / 668,799 and US provisional patent application No. 61 / 677,706 entitled "Transmitters For Wireless Power Transfer" filed on July 31, 2012. All of them are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] This application is a partial continuation application of US Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 13 / 925,469, entitled "Methodology for Multiple Pocket-Forming", filed on June 24, 2013, in its entirety. The contents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0003] This application is a partial continuation of US Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 13 / 946,082, entitled "Method for 3 Dynamic Pocket-Forming," filed on July 19, 2013. The entire content is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0004] This application is a partial continuation of US non-provisional patent application No. 13 / 891,399, entitled "Receiving for Wireless Power Transfer," filed on May 10, 2013, and is a continuation of the application in 2012. US Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 720,798, entitled "Scalable Antonio Assemblies For Power Transfer," filed on March 31, 2012, entitled "Receiving For Power Transfer, US" filed on July 6, 2012. Claims the priority of provisional patent application No. 61 / 668,799 and US provisional patent application No. 61 / 677,706, entitled "Transmitters For Wireless Power Transfer", filed on July 31, 2012. All of them are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0005] This application is a partial continuation application of US non-provisional patent application No. 13 / 891,445 entitled "Transmitters for Wireless Power Transfer" filed on May 10, 2013, and is a continuation application of the US non-provisional patent application No. 13 / 891,445. US Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 720,798, entitled "Scalable Antonio Assemblies For Power Transfer," filed on March 31, 2012, entitled "Receiving For Power Transfer, US" filed on July 6, 2012. Claims the priority of provisional patent application No. 61 / 668,799 and US provisional patent application No. 61 / 677,706, entitled "Transmitters For Wireless Power Transfer", filed on July 31, 2012. All of them are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0006] This application is a partial continuation application of US non-provisional patent application No. 13 / 926,020 entitled "Wireless Power Transfer with Selective Range" filed on June 25, 2013, in its entirety. The contents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0007] This application is a partial continuation application of US Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 14 / 286,243 entitled "Enhanced Transmitter for Wireless Power Transfer" filed on May 23, 2014. Is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0008] This application was filed on December 7, 2014, and was filed on December 7, 2014, US Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 14 / 583,625, entitled "Receiving for Willless Power Transfer". US Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 14 / 583,630 entitled "Methology for Pocket-Forming", US Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 14/583 entitled "Transmitters for Willless Power Transition" filed on December 7, 2014. , 634, US Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 14 / 583,640, entitled "Methology for Multiple Pocket-Forming," filed December 7, 2014, "Willess Power," filed December 7, 2014. US Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 14 / 583,641 entitled "Transmission with Selective Range", US Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 14/583 entitled "Method for 3 Dimental Pocket-Forming" filed on December 27, 2014. , 643, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0009] The present disclosure relates to wireless power transfer comprehensively.

[0010] Portable electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, notebooks and other electronic devices, have become routinely necessary for communicating and interacting with others. Frequent use of these devices can require large amounts of power, which can easily drain the batteries attached to these devices. Therefore, users often need to plug devices into power sources and recharge such devices. This may require the electronic device to be charged at least once a day, or, for demanding electronic devices, more than once a day.

[0011] Such activities can be lengthy and burdensome to the user. For example, a user may be required to carry a charger if their electronic device is underpowered. In addition, the user must find an available power source to connect. Finally, the user must plug in a wall or other power source to be able to charge their electronic device. On the other hand, such activity may render the electronic device inoperable during charging.

Current solutions to this problem can include devices with rechargeable batteries. On the other hand, the technique described above requires the user to carry an additional battery and also ensures that an additional set of batteries is charged. Solar cell rechargeable batteries are also known, but solar cells are expensive and may require a large array of solar cells to charge any large capacity battery. Other techniques include mats or pads that allow the device to be charged by using electromagnetic signals without physically connecting the device's plug to an electrical outlet. In this case, the device still needs to be in place for a period of time in order to be charged. Assuming a single source power transmission of an electromagnetic (EM) signal, the EM signal power is ^{reduced by a factor proportional to 1 / r 2} over the distance r, in other words, attenuated in proportion to the square of the distance. Therefore, the power received at a distance from the EM transmitter is a small portion of the transmitted power. In order to increase the power of the received signal, the transmitted power must be increased. Assuming that the transmitted signal is effectively received at 3 cm from the EM transmitter, receiving the same signal power over a valid distance of 3 meters increases the transmitted power by 10,000 times. Needs. Such power transfer is wasted because most of the energy is transmitted but not received by the intended device, which can be dangerous to living tissue and interferes with most electronic devices in the immediate vicinity. Very likely and may be dissipated as heat.

Yet another approach, such as directional power transfer, usually requires knowing the location of the device to allow the signal to be directed in the correct direction in order to increase power transfer efficiency. However, even when the device is located, effective transmission is not guaranteed due to the reflection and interference of objects in or near the path of the receiving device. In addition, in many use cases the device is not stationary, which adds to the difficulty.

[0014] The embodiments described herein include a transmitter that transmits a power transfer signal (eg, a radio frequency (RF) signal wave) to create a three-dimensional energy pocket. At least one receiver can be connected or integrated with an electronic device to receive power from the energy pocket. The transmitter can locate at least one receiver in three-dimensional space using a communication medium (eg, Bluetooth® technology). The transmitter produces a waveform such that an energy pocket is created around each of at least one receiver. The transmitter uses an algorithm to orient the waveform in three dimensions, focus the waveform, and control the waveform. The receiver can convert the transmitted signal (eg, RF signal) into electricity to power the electronic device and / or charge the battery. Therefore, embodiments for wireless power transfer can be able to power a plurality of power devices and charge these plurality of power devices without wiring.

[0015] In one embodiment, the method for wireless power transmission is to receive a first communication signal from a first electronic device coupled to a first receiver by a transmitter. The first communication signal includes a position associated with the first electronic device, assigns a plurality of antennas to the first electronic device by the transmitter, and causes the first receiver by the transmitter. The first power transmission signal is transmitted in the first phase from the first antenna among the plurality of antennas to the position of the first electronic device, and the first from the first receiver by the transmitter. The second power transmission signal in the second phase from the first antenna to the position of the first electronic device to the first receiver by receiving the voltage level data based on the power transmission signal of And receiving voltage level data based on the second power transmission signal from the receiver by the transmitter and from the second electronic device coupled to the second receiver by the transmitter. Receiving a second communication signal, wherein the second communication signal includes a second position associated with the second electronic device and, by transmitter, multiple antennas in a first group. And dividing into a second group, and assigning a first group of a plurality of antennas to a first electronic device and a second group of a plurality of antennas to a second electronic device by a transmitter. Can be included.

[0016] In another embodiment, the transmitter receives the first communication signal from the first electronic device coupled to the first receiver, the first communication signal being the first. To include the location associated with the electronic device, to assign a plurality of antennas to the first electronic device, and to assign the first receiver to the first antenna to the first electronic device among the plurality of antennas. To transmit the first power transmission signal in the first phase to the position of, to receive the voltage level data based on the first power transmission signal from the first receiver, and to the first receiver. To transmit a second power transmission signal in the second phase from the first antenna to the position of the first electronic device, and to receive voltage level data based on the second power transmission signal from the receiver. And to receive the second communication signal from the second electronic device coupled to the second receiver, the second communication signal being the second position associated with the second electronic device. To include, to divide the plurality of antennas into a first group and a second group, to assign the first group of the plurality of antennas to the first electronic device, and to divide the second group of the plurality of antennas. It can include assigning to a second electronic device.

Further features and advantages of embodiments are set forth in the following description and are partially apparent from this description. The objects and other advantages of the present invention will be realized and achieved by the exemplary embodiments in the written description and their claims as well as the structures specifically pointed out in the accompanying drawings.

It is understood that both the overall description above and the detailed description below are exemplary and descriptive and are intended to provide further description of the claimed invention. sea bream.

[0019] Non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated by way of reference with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are schematic and are not intended to be drawn to scale. Unless shown to represent background technology, the drawings represent aspects of the present disclosure.

[0020] An overview of the system according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0021] The steps of wireless power transfer according to an exemplary embodiment are shown. [0022] An architecture of wireless power transfer according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0023] A component of a system of wireless power transfer using a pocket forming procedure according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0024] The steps of powering a plurality of receiver devices according to an exemplary embodiment are shown. [0025] A waveform for wireless power transfer with a selective range that can be integrated into a single waveform is shown. [0026] A waveform for wireless power transfer with a selective range that can be integrated into a single waveform is shown. [0027] Demonstrating wireless power transfer over a selective range that can generate multiple pockets of energy along various radii from a transmitter. [0028] Demonstrates wireless power transfer over a selective range that can generate multiple pockets of energy along various radii from a transmitter. [0029] Shown is a diagram of an architecture for wirelessly charging a client computing platform according to an exemplary embodiment. An architectural diagram for wirelessly charging a client computing platform according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0030] Demonstrates wireless power transfer using multiple pocket formation according to an exemplary embodiment. [0031] The formation of multiple adaptive pockets according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0032] A diagram of a system architecture for wirelessly charging a client device according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0033] A method for identifying a receiver position using an antenna element according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0034] An array subset configuration according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0035] An array subset configuration according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0036] A flat transmitter according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0037] A transmitter according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0038] A box-type transmitter according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0039] Illustration of the architecture for incorporating the transmitter into different devices according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0040] A transmitter configuration according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0041] A plurality of rectifiers connected in parallel to an antenna element according to an exemplary embodiment are shown. [0042] A plurality of antenna elements connected in parallel to a rectifier according to an exemplary embodiment are shown. [0043] The outputs of a plurality of antenna elements combined and connected to a parallel rectifier according to an exemplary embodiment are shown. [0044] shows a group of antenna elements connected to different rectifiers according to an exemplary embodiment. [0045] Shown is a device having an embedded receiver according to an exemplary embodiment. [0046] Shown is a battery with a built-in receiver according to an exemplary embodiment. [0047] Demonstration of external hardware that can be attached to a device, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0048] Demonstrates hardware in the form of a case, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0049] Demonstrates hardware in the form of a printed film or flexible printed circuit board, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0050] The internal hardware according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0051] Demonstrating a portable transmitter with a power plug capable of connecting the portable wireless transmitter to one or more power outlets, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0052] Demonstration of a transmitter in which a plurality of power plugs connect a portable wireless transmitter to a wide variety of power sources and / or electrical adapters, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0053] Demonstration of a wireless power transfer system according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the transmitter can include a button capable of creating at least one energy pocket at startup. [0054] A block diagram of an enhanced wireless power transmitter that can be used for wireless power transfer according to an embodiment is shown. [0055] A transmitter arrangement of antenna elements that can be coupled to a dedicated receiving radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) according to an embodiment is shown. [0056] A block diagram of a dedicated receive RFIC in an enhanced wireless power transmitter according to an embodiment is shown. [0057] Demonstrates a component-level embodiment for a wireless power system that includes three transmitters, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0058] Shown is a wireless power system comprising two transmitters in two different rooms according to an exemplary embodiment. An exemplary embodiment shows a wireless power system with two transmitters plugged into two different room lighting sockets. [0060] Indicates internal hardware used as a receiver and embedded within a smartphone case, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0061] A block diagram of a receiver that can be used to wirelessly power or charge one or more electronic devices according to an exemplary embodiment. [0062] Demonstrates a power conversion process that can be performed at a receiver during wireless power transfer, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0063] A system architecture diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0064] An exemplary embodiment of a wireless power network including a transmitter and a wireless receiver, according to an exemplary embodiment, is shown. [0065] The wireless power transfer system network according to the embodiment is shown. [0066] A wireless power transfer system architecture, according to an exemplary embodiment, is shown. [0067] Illustrative computing devices in which one or more embodiments of an implementation can operate, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0068] Demonstrating a wireless energy transmission system for transmitting wireless energy using adaptive 3D pocket forming techniques, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0069] A flowchart of the pairing process according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0070] The flow chart of the unpairing process according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0071] A flow chart of tracking and positioning according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0072] Demonstrates wireless power transfer in which a mobile phone receives charge and / or power with low efficiency, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0073] Demonstrates wireless power transfer in which a mobile phone receives charge and / or power with low efficiency, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0074] The flow chart of the charge request process according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0075] Demonstration of an exemplary routine that can be utilized by a microcontroller from a transmitter to authenticate a device that requires wireless power transfer, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0076] An exemplary routine according to an embodiment is illustrated that can be utilized by a microcontroller from a transmitter to deliver power to a previously authenticated device within the routine. [0077] Demonstrating a transmitter according to an exemplary embodiment, which creates at least one energy pocket on a portable mat capable of further redirecting power to another receiving device. [0078] Demonstrating a wireless power transfer system, according to an exemplary embodiment, comprising a tracer that can serve to establish a desired position for creating an energy pocket on at least one receiving device. [0079] Demonstrates wireless power transfer, according to an exemplary embodiment, comprising a tracer that can serve to establish a desired position for creating an energy pocket on at least one receiving device. [0080] Demonstrates wireless power transfer, according to an exemplary embodiment, comprising a tracer that can serve to establish a desired location for creating energy pockets on multiple receiving devices. [0081] A flowchart illustrating a method of automatically allocating a subset of antenna arrays for simultaneously powering two or more client devices according to an exemplary embodiment. [0082] An exemplary routine that can be utilized by wireless power management software that can be initiated by a system management GUI to instruct the system to charge one or more client devices, according to an exemplary embodiment. The flowchart of is shown. [0083] A flow chart of a process of powering a plurality of client devices using a time division multiplexing (TDM) method in a wireless power transfer system according to an embodiment is shown. [0084] A flow chart of a process for adjusting the number of antennas assigned to a wireless power receiver so that power transfer from the wireless power transmitter to the receiver is balanced according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0085] Shown is a block diagram of a transmitter that can be used for wireless power transfer according to an exemplary embodiment. [0086] An exemplary diagram of a flat panel antenna array that can be used in a transmitter according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0087] Demonstrates a single array in which all antenna elements can operate at 5.8 GHz, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0088] Shown is a pair array according to an exemplary embodiment, in which the upper half of the antenna element can operate at 5.8 GHz and the lower half can operate at 2.4 GHz. [0089] Demonstration of a quad array, according to an exemplary embodiment, in which each antenna element can be virtually split to avoid power loss during wireless power transfer. [0090] A chart depicting an exemplary distribution of communication channels over time using TDM in wireless power transfer according to an exemplary embodiment. [0091] Diagrams of exemplary potential interactions between wireless power receivers and wireless power transmitters, according to some embodiments. [0092] A diagram of an exemplary potential interaction of a wireless power receiver and a wireless power transmitter that can be part of a wireless power transfer system architecture, according to an exemplary embodiment, is shown. [0093] Shown is a flow diagram that comprehensively illustrates an exemplary method of transmitting wireless power to a device according to an exemplary embodiment. [0094] Shown is a flow diagram that comprehensively illustrates an exemplary method for monitoring wireless power transmitted to a device, according to an exemplary embodiment. [0095] A flowchart of a method for monitoring battery performance in a wireless power transfer system according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0096] A sequence diagram of a method for monitoring battery performance according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. [0097] A flowchart of a method for prohibiting a client device from receiving power from a wireless power transfer system based on a health safety prohibited situation according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0098] Here, the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to embodiments shown in the drawings that form part of this specification. Other embodiments may be used and / or other modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. The descriptive embodiments described in the detailed description are not intended to limit the subject matter presented herein. Further, further embodiments can be formed by combining the embodiments described in the present specification without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention.

[0099] Here, with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings, certain language is used herein to describe these embodiments. Nevertheless, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Modifications and further modifications of the invention features set forth herein, and further applications of the principles of the invention set forth herein, may be conceivable by those skilled in the art in the art. , Is considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

I. Systems and methods for wireless power transfer A. Components of the system embodiment
[0100] FIG. 1 shows a system 100 for wireless power transfer by forming an energy pocket 104. The system 100 can include a transmitter 101, a receiver 103, a client device 105, and a pocket detector 107. The transmitter 101 can transmit a power transmission signal including a power transmission wave that can be captured by the receiver 103. The receiver 103 can convert the captured wave into an available source of electrical energy on behalf of the client device 105 associated with the receiver 103: antennas, antenna elements and other circuitry (detailed below). Described) can be included. In some embodiments, the transmitter 101 is in one or more orbits by manipulating the phase, gain and / or other waveform features of the power transmission wave and / or by selecting different transmitting antennas. , A power transmission signal created from a power transmission wave can be transmitted. In such an embodiment, the transmitter 101 can manipulate the trajectory of the power transfer signal so that the underlying power transfer wave converges at a position in space, resulting in certain forms of interference. Occurs. One type of interference that occurs when a power transfer wave converges, "constructive interference," is the convergence of the power transfer wave, in which the power transfer waves combine together to enhance the energy concentrated at that location. It can be a generated energy field. This is in contrast to what is called "destructive interference", in which power transfer waves combine together so that they are subtracted from each other, attenuating the energy that concentrates at that location. By accumulating sufficient energy in intensifying interference, an energy field or "pocket of energy" 104 can be established, in which the antenna of receiver 103 operates at the frequency of the power transmission signal. If configured as such, it can be incorporated by these antennas. Thus, the power transfer wave establishes an energy pocket 104 at a position in space where the receiver 103 can receive, capture, and convert the power transfer wave into usable electrical energy, thereby being associated. The electrical client device 105 can be powered or charged. The detector 107 can be a device comprising a receiver 103 capable of generating notifications or alerts in response to receiving a power transmission signal. As an example, a user searching for an optimal arrangement of receiver 103 to charge a user's client device 105 can use a detector 107 with LED light 108, which LED light 108 is a detector. Brightness can be increased when the 107 captures a power transmission signal from a single beam or energy pocket 104.

1. 1. Transmitter
[0101] The transmitter 101 can transmit or broadcast a power transmission signal to the receiver 103 associated with the device 105. Although some of the embodiments described below describe the power transfer signal as a radio frequency (RF) wave, the power transfer signal can be propagated through space and to the electrical energy source 103. It should be understood that it can be a physical medium that can be converted. The transmitter 101 can transmit the power transmission signal as a single beam directed at the receiver 103. In some cases, one or more transmitters 101 can transmit multiple power transfer signals propagating in multiple directions and are polarized off physical obstacles (eg, walls). Can be done. A plurality of power transmission signals can converge at a position in three-dimensional space to form an energy pocket 104. The receiver 103 within the boundaries of the energy pocket 104 can capture the power transfer signal and convert it into a usable energy source. The transmitter 101 can control the pocket formation based on the phase and / or relative amplitude adjustment of the power transmission signal to form an intensifying interference pattern.

[0102] Although exemplary embodiments cite the use of RF wave transmission techniques, wireless charging techniques should not be limited to RF wave transmission techniques. Rather, it should be understood that possible wireless charging techniques can include any number of alternative or additional techniques for transmitting energy to a receiver that converts the transmitted energy into electric power. .. Non-limiting exemplary transmission techniques for energy that can be converted to power by the receiving device include ultrasonic, microwave, resonant and induced magnetic fields, laser light, infrared, or other forms of electromagnetic energy. Can include. In the case of ultrasonic waves, for example, one or more transducer elements can be arranged to form a transducer array that transmits the ultrasonic waves towards the receiving device, which receiving device receives the ultrasonic waves and receives the ultrasonic waves. Converts ultrasonic waves into power. In the case of a resonant magnetic field and an induced magnetic field, a magnetic field is generated in the transmitting coil and converted into power by the receiver coil. Further, the exemplary transmitter 101 is shown as a single unit that potentially contains multiple transmitters (transmission arrays), but RF transmission of power, and other power transmissions mentioned in this paragraph. In both cases of the method, the transmit array can include multiple transmitters physically diffused around space rather than a small regular structure.

[0103] The transmitter includes an antenna array in which the antenna is used to transmit a power transfer signal. Each antenna transmits a power transfer wave, where the transmitter applies different phases and amplitudes to signals transmitted from different antennas. Similar to the formation of energy pockets, the transmitter can form a phased array of delayed versions of the signal transmitted, then apply different amplitudes to the delayed version of the signal, and then the appropriate Send a signal from the antenna. For sinusoidal waveforms such as RF signals, ultrasonic waves, microwaves, etc., delaying the signal is similar to applying a phase shift to the signal.

2. Energy pocket
[0104] The energy pocket 104 can be formed at the position of the intensifying interference pattern of the power transmission signal transmitted by the transmitter 101. The energy pocket 104 can appear as a three-dimensional field in which energy can be taken in by the receiver 103 located in the energy pocket 104. The energy pocket 104 generated by the transmitter 101 during pocket formation is taken up by the receiver 103, converted into an electric charge, and then associated with the receiver 103 (eg, laptop computer, smartphone, rechargeable battery). It can be provided to the client device 105. In some embodiments, there may be a plurality of transmitters 101 and / or a plurality of receivers 103 that power the various client devices 105. In some embodiments, adaptive pocket formation can regulate the transmission of power transmission signals to regulate power levels and / or to identify movement of device 105.

3. 3. Receiving machine
[0105] The receiver 103 can be used to power or charge the associated client device 105. The client device 105 can be an electrical device coupled or integrated with the receiver 103. The receiver 103 can receive power transmission waves from one or more power transmission signals generated by one or more transmitters 101. The receiver 103 can receive the power transfer signal as a single beam generated by the transmitter 101, or the receiver 103 can take in the power transfer wave from the energy pocket 104. This can be a three-dimensional field in space that results from the convergence of multiple power transfer waves generated by one or more transmitters 101. The receiver 103 may include an array of antennas 112 configured to receive power transfer waves from the power transfer signal and take energy from the power transfer signal in a single beam or energy pocket 104. The receiver 103 can include a circuit unit, which in turn converts the energy of the power transfer signal (eg, radio frequency electromagnetic radiation) into electrical energy. The rectifier of the receiver 103 can convert electrical energy from AC to DC. Other types of adjustments can also be applied. For example, the voltage regulator circuit can increase or decrease the voltage of electrical energy in response to a request from the client device 105. The relay can then transfer the electrical energy from the receiver 103 to the client device 105.

[0106] In some embodiments, the receiver 103 may include a communication component that transmits a control signal to the transmitter 101 in order to exchange data in real time or near real time. The control signal can include status information about the client device 105, the receiver 103 or the power transmission signal. The status information can include, among other types of information, the current location information of the device 105, the amount of charge received, the amount of charge used, and user account information. Further, in some applications, the receiver 103 can be integrated with the client device 105, including a rectifier housed in the receiver. In practice, the receiver 103, wiring 111 and client device 105 can be a single unit contained within a single package.

4. Control signal
[0107] In some embodiments, the control signal can serve as a data input used by various antenna elements responsible for controlling the generation and / or pocket formation of the power transfer signal. The control signal can be generated by the receiver 103 or transmitter 101 using an external power source (not shown) and a local oscillator chip (not shown), which in some cases uses piezoelectric material. Can include. The control signal can be an RF wave or any other communication medium or protocol capable of communicating data between processors such as Bluetooth®, RFID, infrared, Near Field Communication (NFC). As will be described in detail later, the control signal can be used to transmit information used to adjust the power transmission signal between the transmitter 101 and the receiver 103, and also status, efficiency. , User data, power consumption, billing, geolocation information, and other types of information.

5. Detector
[0108] The detector 107 can include hardware similar to the receiver 103, which can allow the detector 107 to receive power transfer signals generated from one or more transmitters 101. .. The detector 107 can be used by the user to locate the energy pocket 104, which allows the user to determine the preferred placement of the receiver 103. In some embodiments, the detector 107 may include an indicator light 108 that indicates when the detector is located in the energy pocket 104. As an example, in FIG. 1, the detectors 107a, 107b are located in the energy pocket 104 generated by the transmitter 101, whereby the detectors 107a, 107b are receiving the power transmission signal of the energy pocket 104. Due to this, the detectors 107a, 107b can be triggered to turn on the indicator lights 108, 108b, respectively, while the indicator of the third detector 107c located outside the energy pocket 104. The light 108c is turned off because the third detector 107c has not received the power transfer signal from the transmitter 101. It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the functionality of the detector, such as an indicator light, may also be integrated into the receiver or client device.

6. Client device
[0109] The client device 105 can be any electrical device that requires continuous electrical energy or power from a battery. Non-limiting examples of client device 105 include laptops, mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, music players, toys, batteries, flash lights, lamps, electronic watches, cameras, game consoles, among other types of electrical devices. Devices, GPS devices, and wearable devices or so-called "wearables" (eg, fitness bracelets, pedometers, smartwatches) can be included.

[0110] In some embodiments, the client device 105a can be a physical device separate from the receiver 103a associated with the client device 105a. In such an embodiment, the client device 105a can be connected to the receiver via wiring 111 that transmits the converted electrical energy from the receiver 103a to the client device 105a. In some cases, other types of data such as power consumption status, power usage metrics, device identifiers and other types of data can be transported via wire 111.

[0111] In some embodiments, the client device 105b may be permanently integrated or detachably coupled to the receiver 103b, thereby forming a single integrated product or unit. can. As an example, the client device 105b has an embedded receiver 103a and can be placed in a sleeve that can be detachably coupled to the power input of the device 105b. This power input can typically be used to charge the battery of device 105b. In this example, the device 105b can be separated from the receiver, but can remain in the sleeve regardless of whether the device 105b needs a charge or whether the device 105b is used. In another example, instead of having a charge-holding battery for device 105b, device 105b is permanently integrated into device 105b to form an indistinct product, device or unit. It can be equipped with an integrated receiver 105b that can. In this example, the device 105b can rely almost entirely on the integrated receiver 103b to generate electrical energy by incorporating the energy pocket 104. For those skilled in the art, the connection between the receiver 103 and the client device 105 can be a wired 111, or an electrical connection on a circuit board or integrated circuit, or even inductive or It should be clear that it can be a wireless connection such as magnetic.

B. Wireless power transfer method
[0112] FIG. 2 shows the steps of wireless power transfer according to an exemplary method 200 embodiment.

[0113] In the first step 201, the transmitter (TX) establishes a connection or otherwise cooperates with the receiver (RX). That is, in some embodiments, the transmitter and receiver are capable of transmitting information between two processors of an electrical device, such as a wireless communication protocol (eg, Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® low). Control data can be communicated by using energy (BLE), Wi-Fi, NFC, ZigBee®). For example, in an embodiment that implements a Bluetooth® or a variant of Bluetooth®, the transmitter can scan the advertisement signal broadcast by the receiver, or the receiver can scan the advertisement signal. Can be sent to the transmitter. The advertisement signal can inform the transmitter of the presence of the receiver and can trigger the association between the transmitter and the receiver. As described herein, in some embodiments, the advertisement signal performs and manages the pocket formation procedure by various devices (eg, transmitters, client devices, server computers, other receivers). Information that can be used to do so can be communicated. The information contained within the advertisement signal should include device identifiers (eg, MAC address, IP address, UUID), voltage of received electrical energy, client device power consumption, and other types of data related to power transmission. Can be done. The transmitter can identify the receiver using the transmitted advertisement signal, and in some cases can locate the receiver in two-dimensional or three-dimensional space. When the transmitter identifies the receiver, the transmitter establishes a connection associated with the receiver at the transmitter, allowing the transmitter and receiver to communicate signals over a second channel. Can be done.

[0114] In the next step 203, the transmitter can use the advertisement signal to determine a set of power transfer signal features for transmitting the power transfer signal and then establish an energy pocket. Non-limiting examples of features of power transfer signals can include, among others, phase, gain, amplitude, magnitude and direction. How the transmitter uses the information contained in the receiver's advertisement signal or subsequent control signals received from the receiver to allow the receiver to receive the power transmission signal. You can decide whether to generate and send. In some cases, the transmitter can transmit a power transmission signal to establish an energy pocket, from which the receiver can take in power energy. In some embodiments, the transmitter is the power required to establish an energy pocket based on information received from the receiver, such as the voltage of electrical energy taken up by the receiver from a power transmission signal. It can include processors running software modules that can automatically identify transmitted signal characteristics. It should be understood that the functionality of processor and software modules can also be implemented in application specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

[0115] Further or alternative, in some embodiments, the advertisement signal or subsequent signal transmitted by the receiver over the second communication channel exhibits one or more power transmission signal characteristics. The transmitter can then use one or more of these power transmission signal features to generate and transmit power transmission signals to establish an energy pocket. For example, in some cases, the transmitter can automatically determine the phase and gain required to transmit a power transmission signal based on the location of the device and the type of device or receiver, and in some cases. If so, the receiver can notify the transmitter of the phase and gain for effectively transmitting the power transmission signal.

[0116] In the next step 205, the transmitter initiates transmission of the power transfer signal via a channel separate from the control signal after determining suitable features to use when transmitting the power transfer signal. be able to. A power transfer signal can be transmitted to establish an energy pocket. The antenna element of the transmitter can transmit the power transfer signal so that the power transfer signal converges in the two-dimensional space or the three-dimensional space around the receiver. The resulting field around the receiver forms an energy pocket through which the receiver can take in electrical energy. One antenna element can be used to transmit power transmission signals to establish two-dimensional energy transmission, and in some cases a second or additional antenna element can be used to establish a three-dimensional energy pocket. Therefore, a power transmission signal can be transmitted. In some cases, multiple antenna elements can be used to transmit power transmission signals to establish an energy pocket, and in some cases, multiple antennas may include all antennas in the transmitter. In some cases, the plurality of antennas may include only one or more antennas in the transmitter and may not include all antennas.

[0117] As described above, the transmitter can generate and transmit a power transfer signal according to a determined set of power transfer signal features. This set can be generated and transmitted using an external power source and a local oscillator chip containing piezoelectric material. The transmitter can include RFICs that control the generation and transmission of power transmission signals based on information related to power transfer and pocket formation received from the receiver. This control data can be communicated via a different channel than the power transfer signal using a wireless communication protocol such as BLE, NFC or ZigBee®. The RFIC of the transmitter can automatically adjust the phase and / or relative magnitude of the power transfer signal, if desired. Pocket formation is achieved by transmitters that transmit power transfer signals to form intensifying interference patterns.

[0118] The antenna element of the transmitter uses the concept of wave interference when transmitting a power transfer signal during pocket formation to a particular power transfer signal feature (eg, transmission direction, phase of the power transfer signal wave). ) Can be determined. Antenna elements can use the concept of intensifying interference to generate energy pockets, but they can also use the concept of intensifying interference to generate transmit nulls at specific physical locations.

[0119] In some embodiments, pocket formation can be used to power multiple receivers, which requires the transmitter to perform steps for multiple pocket formation. In some cases. A transmitter with a plurality of antenna elements automatically forms the phase and gain of the transmitted signal wave for each antenna element of the transmitter, which is tasked with transmitting a power transmission signal to each receiver. Multiple pocket formation can be achieved. The transmitter antenna element can generate multiple wave paths for each power transmission signal to transmit the power transmission signal to each antenna element of the receiver, so that the transmitter is phase and gain independent. Can be calculated.

[0120] As an example of calculating the phase / gain adjustment for two antenna elements of a transmitter transmitting two signals, X and Y are assumed. Here, Y is a phase shift of X by 180 ° (Y = −X). At the physical position where the cumulative reception waveform is XY, the receiver receives XY = X + X = 2X, whereas at the physical position where the cumulative reception waveform is XY, the receiver receives X + Y = X-. Receives X = 0.

[0121] In the next step 207, the receiver can take in or otherwise receive electrical energy from a power transfer signal in a single beam or energy pocket. The receiver can be equipped with a rectifier and an AC / DC converter, the rectifier and the AC / DC converter can convert electrical energy from AC current to DC current, and then the receiver rectifier Electric energy can be rectified, resulting in available electrical energy for client devices associated with receivers such as laptop computers, smartphones, batteries, toys or other electrical devices. The receiver can utilize the energy pockets generated by the transmitter during pocket formation to charge or otherwise power the electronic device.

[0122] In the next step 209, the receiver can generate control data that includes information indicating the efficiency of a single beam or energy pocket that provides the receiver power transfer signal. The receiver can then transmit a control signal, including control data, to the transmitter. The control signal is intermittent, depending on whether the transmitter and receiver are communicating synchronously (ie, the transmitter expects to receive control data from the receiver). Can be sent. Further, the transmitter can continuously transmit the power transmission signal to the receiver regardless of whether the transmitter and the receiver are communicating the control signal. Control data can include information about transmitting power transfer signals and / or establishing effective energy pockets. Some of the information in the control data can inform the transmitter how to effectively generate and transmit the characteristics of the power transfer signal and, in some cases, adjust it. The control signal is a second, independent of the power transmission signal, using a wireless protocol capable of transmitting power transmission signals such as BLE, NFC, Wi-Fi and / or control data related to pocket formation. It can be transmitted and received over the channel.

[0123] As mentioned above, the control data can include information that indicates the effect of a single beam power transfer signal or establishes an energy pocket. Control data can be generated by the receiver's processor that monitors various aspects of the receiver and / or client device associated with the receiver. Control data is, among other types of information useful for coordinating power transmission signals and / or pocket formation, the voltage of electrical energy received from power transmission signals, the quality of power transmission signal reception, the quality of charging or power. It can be based on various types of information such as reception quality and receiver position or movement.

[0124] In some embodiments, the receiver can determine the amount of power received from the power transfer signal transmitted from the transmitter, and then the transmitter transmits the power transfer signal to less powerful power transfer. It can indicate that the signal is "split" or should be split. Less powerful power transfer signals can bounce off objects or walls near the device, thereby reducing the amount of power transmitted directly from the transmitter to the receiver.

[0125] In the next step 211, the transmitter can calibrate the antenna that transmits the power transfer signal, whereby the antenna has a more effective feature set (eg, direction, phase, gain, amplitude). Transmits a power transfer signal with. In some embodiments, the transmitter processor can automatically determine more effective features for generating and transmitting a power transfer signal based on the control signal received from the receiver. The control signal can include control data and can be transmitted by the receiver using any number of wireless communication protocols (eg, BLE, Wi-Fi, ZigBee®). The control data can include information that explicitly indicates more effective features for the power transfer wave, or the transmitter is based on the waveform features of the control signal (eg, shape, frequency, amplitude). , More effective features can be determined automatically. The transmitter can then automatically reconfigure the antenna to transmit the recalibrated power transfer signal according to the newly determined more effective features. For example, the transmitter processor adjusts the gain and / or phase of the power transmission signal, among other features, to allow the user to move the receiver out of the three-dimensional space where the energy pocket is established. After moving, you can adjust for changes in the position of the receiver.

C. System architecture of power transmission system
[0126] According to an exemplary embodiment, FIG. 3 shows an architecture 300 for wireless power transfer using pocket formation. "Pocket formation" can refer to the generation of two or more power transfer waves 342 that converge at a position in three-dimensional space, resulting in the generation of interference patterns that strengthen each other at that position. The transmitter 302 can transmit and / or broadcast a controlled power transfer wave 342 (eg, microwave, radio, ultrasonic) that can converge in three-dimensional space. These power transfer waves 342 can be controlled through phase and / or relative amplitude adjustment to form an interference pattern (pocket formation) in which the energy pockets intensify at the intended location. The transmitter uses the same principle to create weakening interference at some point, thereby causing transmission nulls, that is, transmitted power transfer waves to substantially cancel each other out and collect large amounts of energy by the receiver. It should also be understood that it can give rise to positions that cannot. In normal use cases, the purpose is to aim the power transfer signal at the receiver's location, in other cases it may be desirable to specifically avoid power transfer to a particular location, in other cases it may be desirable. It may be desirable to aim the power transfer to a location while at the same time avoiding transmission to a second location in particular. When calibrating the antenna for power transfer, the transmitter takes into account use cases.

The antenna element 306 of the transmitter 302 can operate in a single array, a pair of arrays, a quadruple array, or any other suitable configuration that can be designed according to the desired application. .. Energy pockets can be formed in intensifying interference patterns in which power transfer waves 342 accumulate to form a three-dimensional energy field, around which one or more at a particular physical location by the intensifying interference patterns. The corresponding send null can be generated. A transmit null at a particular physical location can refer to an area or region of space where energy pockets are not formed due to the weakening interference patterns of the power transfer wave 342.

[0128] The receiver 320 then utilizes the power transmission wave 342 radiated by the transmitter 302 to charge or power the electronic device 313, thereby effectively providing wireless power transfer. An energy pocket can be established. An energy pocket can refer to an area or region of space in which energy or power can be stored in the form of intensifying interference patterns of power transfer waves 342. In other situations, there may be a plurality of transmitters 302 and / or a plurality of receivers 320 for simultaneously powering various electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, music players, toys and the like. In other embodiments, adaptive pocket formation can be used to regulate the power to the electronic device. Adaptive pocket formation can refer to dynamically adjusting pocket formation to regulate power to one or more targeted receivers.

[0129] The receiver 320 can communicate with the transmitter 302 by generating a short signal through the antenna element 324 to indicate the position of the receiver 320 with respect to the transmitter 302. In some embodiments, the receiver 320 further utilizes a network interface card (not shown) or similar computer networking component to manage cloud computing through network 340 to manage several aggregates of transmitter 302. It can communicate with other devices or components of the system 300, such as services. The receiver 320 may include a circuit unit 308 for converting the power transfer signal 342 captured by the antenna element 324 into electrical energy that can be provided to the electrical device 313 and / or the battery 315 of the device. In some embodiments, the circuitry can provide electrical energy to the receiver battery 335, which allows the receiver battery 335 to provide energy without the electrical device 313 being communicably coupled to the receiver 320. Can be stored.

The communication component 324 can allow the receiver 320 to communicate with the transmitter 302 by transmitting a control signal 345 via a wireless protocol. The wireless protocol can be a dedicated protocol, or conventional wireless protocols such as Bluetooth®, BLE, Wi-Fi, NFC, and ZigBee® can be used. The communication component 324 is then used to deliver information such as identifiers for electronic device 313, as well as battery level information, geographic location data, or when to transmit power to receiver 320, and power transmission wave 342. Other information that can be useful to the transmitter 302 can be transferred in determining the location that creates the energy pocket. In other embodiments, adaptive pocket formation can be used to regulate the power provided to the electronic device 313. In such an embodiment, the communication component 324 of the receiver can transmit voltage data indicating the amount of power received by the receiver 320 and / or the amount of voltage provided to the electronic device 313b or battery 315. ..

[0131] Once the transmitter 302 has identified and located the receiver 320, a channel or path for the control signal 345 can be established, through which the transmitter 302 comes from the receiver 320. The gain and phase of the control signal 345 to be used can be known. The antenna element 306 of the transmitter 302 can initiate the transmission or broadcast of a controlled power transfer wave 342 (eg, radio frequency wave, ultrasonic), and the controlled power transfer wave 342 has at least two antennas. By manipulating the power transmission wave 342 radiated from each antenna element 306 using the element 306, it is possible to converge in the three-dimensional space. These power transfer waves 342 can be generated by using an external power source and a local oscillator chip with a suitable piezoelectric material. The power transfer wave 342 can be controlled by the transmitter circuit unit 301, which may include a dedicated chip for adjusting the phase and / or relative magnitude of the power transfer wave 342. can. The phase, gain, amplitude and other waveforms of the power transfer wave 342 can serve as inputs for the antenna element 306 to form an intensifying interference pattern (pocket formation). In some embodiments, the microcontroller 310 or other circuitry of transmitter 302 can generate a power transmission signal, the power transmission signal comprising a power transmission wave 342 and an antenna connected to transmitter circuit section 301. Depending on the number of elements 306, it can be divided into a plurality of outputs by the transmitter circuit unit 301. For example, when four antenna elements 306a to 306d are connected to one transmitter circuit 301a, the power transmission signal is divided into four different outputs, each output heading towards the antenna element 306 and each antenna element. It is transmitted as a power transmission wave 342 generated from 306.

[0132] Pocket formation can utilize interference to change the directivity of antenna element 306. Here, strengthening interference creates an energy pocket, and weakening interference creates a transmit null. The receiver 320 can then utilize the energy pockets generated by the pocket formation to charge the electronic device and power the electronic device, thereby effectively providing wireless power transfer.

Multiple pocket formations can be achieved by calculating the phase and gain from each antenna 306 of transmitter 302 to each receiver 320.

[0134] FIG. 35 shows a wireless charging system architecture 3500 according to an exemplary embodiment. The system architecture 3500 can include one or more wireless power transmitters 3501 and one or more wireless power receivers 3520a, 3530b. In some embodiments, the wireless charging system architecture 3500 may include one or more electronic devices 3552, which may not have the built-in wireless power receiver 3520a. In another embodiment, the wireless charging system architecture 3500 can include an electronic device 3552 with a built-in power receiver 3520a. Pairing can refer to the association of a single electronic client device with a single power receiver within the distributed system database of a wireless power transfer system, thereby, for example, a user, or an automated system process. However, if the client device is instructed to be charged, the system can determine from this association which power receiver to transmit power to charge the client device. A system database can refer to an exact copy of the system database of an installed product, or an exact copy of a subset of this database stored within any system computer and accessible by any system computer.

[0135] The power transmitter 3501 is capable of transmitting a controlled radio frequency (RF) wave that can converge in 3D space. These RF waves can be controlled to form intensifying interference patterns (pocket formation) through phase and / or relative amplitude adjustments. Pocket formation can be referred to as generating two or more RF waves that converge in 3D space and form a controlled and intensifying interference pattern. Energy pockets can be formed in intensifying interference patterns that can take a three-dimensional shape, whereas transmit nulls at specific physical positions can be generated in intensifying interference patterns. An energy pocket can refer to an area or region of space in which energy or power can be stored in the form of intensifying interference patterns of RF waves. Transmission nulls at a particular physical location can refer to areas or regions of space where energy pockets are not formed due to the weakening interference patterns of RF waves. Adaptive pocket formation can refer to dynamically adjusting pocket formation to regulate power to one or more target receivers. Electric power can refer to electrical energy, where "wireless power transfer" can be synonymous with "wireless energy transmission" and "wireless power transfer" is synonymous with "wireless energy transmission". Can be a word.

[0136] According to an exemplary embodiment, the power transmitter 3501 includes, among other components, a power transmitter manager application 3594a, a third party BTLE API3512a, a BTLE chip 3512b, an antenna manager software 3593, and the like. It can be equipped with an antenna array 3586a. The power transmitter manager application 3594a can be an executable program loaded into the non-volatile memory in the power transmitter 3501. The power transmitter manager application 3594a can control the behavior of the power transmitter 3501, among others, monitor the charge status of the electronic device 3552 and the power receiver 3520a, and track the location of the power receiver 3520a. Can and can execute power schedules. In some embodiments, the power transmitter 3501 provides power receiver 3520a, electronic device 3552, power status, power schedule, ID, information related to pairing, and any information needed to run the system. It can include a database (not shown) for storage. BTLE or BLE can refer to Bluetooth® low energy communication hardware and / or software. A database can be a SQL file, or a file in a different or arbitrary format, or an array of data structures in a computer's volatile or non-volatile memory, but organizes and stores the data in the database's computer. , Excludes those used for retrieval. The third party BTLE API 3512a can enable effective dialogue between the power transmitter manager application 3594a and the BTLE chip 3512b. The antenna manager software 3593 can process instructions from the power transmitter manager application 3594a and can control the antenna array 3586a.

[0137] The antenna array 3586a that can be included in the power transmitter 3501 can include a plurality of antenna elements capable of transmitting power. In some embodiments, the antenna array 3586a can include 64 to 256 antenna elements that can be distributed within an evenly spaced grid. In one embodiment, the antenna array 3586a can have an 8x8 grid with a total of 64 antenna elements. In another embodiment, the antenna array 3586a can have a 16x16 grid with a total of 256 antenna elements. On the other hand, the number of antenna elements may vary in relation to the desired range and power transmission capability of the power transmitter 3501. Generally, with more antenna elements, a wider range and higher power transfer capacity can be achieved. Alternative configurations are also possible, including circular patterns or polygonal arrangements, among others. The antenna element of the antenna array 3586a can include an antenna type for operating in a frequency band such as 900 MHz, 2.5 GHz, 5.250 GHz or 5.8 GHz, and the antenna element can operate at independent frequencies. It can, and enables multi-channel operation of pocket formation.

[0138] The power transmitter 3501 can further include other communication methods such as Wi-Fi, ZigBee® and LAN, among others. The power receiver 3520a can include a power receiver application 3594b, a third party BTLE API 3512a, a BTLE chip 3512b, and an antenna array 3586b. The power receiver 3520a can make available the energy pockets generated by the power transmitter 3501 to charge or power the electronic devices 3552a and the electronic devices 3520b. The power receiver application 3594b can be an executable instruction loaded into the non-volatile memory in the power receiver 3520a. The third party BTLE API 3512a can enable effective interaction between the power receiver application 3594b and the BTLE chip 3512b. The antenna array 3586b can allow power to be taken from the energy pocket.

[0139] Electronic device 3552 and electronic device 3520a can include a GUI for managing their interactions within the wireless charging system architecture 3500. The GUI can be associated with an executable program loaded in non-volatile memory. In some embodiments, the electronic device 3552 and the electronic device 3520a store the power receiver 3520a, power status, power schedule, ID, information related to pairing, and any information needed to run the system. A database for this (not shown) can be included. A system management GUI can refer to a software application program that runs on a computer in a wireless power transfer system or on a remote server that may be in the Internet cloud. This system management GUI is a graphic user interface between the system user or system operator and the software in the wireless power transmission system for configuration, monitoring, instruction, control, reporting, and any other system management function. Used for.

[0140] In some embodiments, the wireless charging system architecture 3500 may include a plurality of power transmitters 3501 and / or a plurality of power receivers 3520a for charging the plurality of electronic devices 3552. In a system including a plurality of power transmitters 3501, two or more power transmitters include, among others, Bluetooth®, BTLE, Wi-Fi, ZigBee®, LAN, LTE and LTE Direct. , It is possible to always communicate using any available communication channel.

[0141] FIG. 36 shows an exemplary embodiment of a wireless power transfer system 3600 (WPTS) in which one or more embodiments of the present disclosure can operate. The wireless power transfer system 3600 can include communication between one or more wireless power transmitters 3601 and one or more wirelessly powered receivers 3620a, and communication within the client device 3620b. The client device 3652 can be paired with an adaptable paired receiver 3620a, which allows wireless power transfer to the client device 3652. In another embodiment, the client device 3620b may include a wireless power receiver built in as part of the device's hardware. The client device 3652 is any device that uses energy power, such as laptop computers, fixed computers, mobile phones, tablets, mobile game consoles, televisions, radios, and / or requires or from energy power. It can be any set of equipment that can be profitable.

[0142] In one embodiment, one or more wireless power transmitters 3601 include a power transmitter manager app 3694a (PWR TX MGR APP) as embedded software and a Bluetooth® low energy chip 3612b (BTLE). It can include a microprocessor that integrates with a third party application programming interface 3612a (third party API) for CHIP HW). An App can refer to a software application that runs on a mobile, laptop, desktop or server computer. The Bluetooth® low energy chip 3612a can enable communication between a wireless power transmitter 3601 and other devices including a power receiver 3620a, client devices 3652 and 3620b and the like. The wireless power transmitter 3601 controls an RF antenna array that can be used to form a controlled RF wave that can converge in 3D space and create an energy pocket on a wirelessly powered receiver. Antenna manager software (antenna MGR software) can also be provided. In some embodiments, the one or more Bluetooth® low energy chips 3612b may utilize other wireless communication protocols, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, LTE Direct, and the like.

[0143] The power transmitter manager app3694a can call a third party application programming interface 3612a to perform multiple functions, including establishing a connection, terminating a connection, and transmitting data, among others. The third party application programming interface 3612a can issue commands to the Bluetooth® low energy chip 3612b according to the function called by the power transmitter manager app 3694a.

[0144] The power transmitter manager ap3694a may also include a distributed system database. The distributed system database contains an identifier for the client device 3652, a voltage range for the power receiver 3620a, the location of the client device 3652, the signal strength associated with the client device 3652 and / or any other relevant information, etc. The relevant information associated with the client device 3652 can be stored. The database relates to a wireless power network, including receiver ID, transmitter ID, end-user handheld device, system management server, charging schedule, charging priority, and / or any other data related to the wireless power network. Information can also be stored.

[0145] The third party application programming interface 3612a can simultaneously call the power transmitter manager upp3694a through a callback function that can be registered with the power transmitter manager upp3694a at boot time. The third party application programming interface 3612a can have a timer callback that can be done 10 times per second, every time a connection starts, every time a connection ends, every time a connection is attempted, or a message is received. You can send a callback each time it is done.

[0146] The client device 3620b includes a power receiver appp3694b (PWR RX APP) and a third party application programming interface 3650a (third party API) for Bluetooth® low energy chip 3630b (BTLE CHIP HW). , Can be equipped with an RF antenna array 3686b that can be used to receive and utilize the energy pockets transmitted from the wireless power transmitter 3601.

[0147] The power receiver app 3694b can call a third party application programming interface 3650a to perform multiple functions, including establishing a connection, terminating a connection, and transmitting data, among others. The third party application programming interface 3650a can have a timer callback that can be done 10 times per second, every time a connection starts, every time a connection ends, every time a connection is attempted, or a message is received. You can send a callback each time it is done.

[0148] The client device 3652 can be paired with an adaptive power receiver 3620a via a BTLE connection 3696. A graphical user interface (GUI3698) can be used to manage the wireless power network from the client device 3652. GUI 3698 can be a software module that can be downloaded from any application store and, among others, run on any operating system, including iOS and Android. The client device 3652 may communicate with the wireless power transmitter 3601 via the BTLE connection 3696 to be useful for identifiers for the device, battery level information, geographic location data, or wireless power transmitter 3601. It is also possible to send important data such as any other information that can be sent.

[0149] Wireless power manager software can be used to manage the wireless power transfer system 3600. A wireless power manager can be a software module that is hosted in memory and executed by a processor within a computing device. The wireless power manager can include a local application GUI or host a web page GUI, from which the user sees options and status and executes commands to manage the wireless power transfer system 3600. can do. Computing devices that can be cloud-based include wireless power transmission through standard communication protocols, including Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® low energy, Wi-Fi or ZigBee®, among others. It can be connected to the machine 3601. The power transmitter manager app3694a can exchange information with the wireless power manager to control access by client device 3652 and power transfer to client device 3652. Functions controlled by the wireless power manager include scheduling power transfer for individual devices, prioritizing between different client devices, accessing certificates on a client-by-client basis, and receiving power for the power transmitter area. It can include any function needed to track the physical location of the device, broadcast a message, and / or manage the wireless power transfer system 3600.

[0150] The computing device can be connected to the wireless power transmitter 3601 through a network connection. Network connections include intranets, local area networks (LANs), virtual private networks (VPNs), wireless area networks (WANs), Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® low energy, Wi-Fi and ZigBee. It can refer to any connection between computers, including (registered trademark). The power transmitter manager upp3694a can exchange information with the wireless power manager to control access to power transfer by the device. Features controlled by the wireless power manager include scheduling power transfer for individual devices, the number of antennas assigned to client devices, priorities between different client devices, per-client access certificates, physical location, and messages. It can include any functionality required to manage components within the broadcast and / or wireless power transfer system 3600.

[0151] One or more wireless power transmitters 3601 may automatically transmit power to any single wireless power receiver that is close enough for the wireless power transmitter 3601 to establish communication. The wireless power receiver can then power or charge an electrically connected electronic device, such as the client device 3652. A single wireless power transmitter 3601 can power multiple wireless power receivers at the same time. Alternatively, the components within the wireless power transfer system 3600, through the wireless power manager graphical user interface, are, among other things, the time of power transfer scheduled on an automated time basis, the physical location of the power receiver, and the client device. It may be configured to automatically transmit power only to a particular wireless power receiver, depending on certain system standards and / or conditions, such as the owner of the.

[0152] The wireless power receiver acquires the energy transmitted from the wireless power transmitter 3601 into the antenna of the wireless power receiver, rectifies it, adjusts it, and converts the resulting electrical energy into electricity. It can be sent to a specifically connected device to power it or charge it. If any wireless power receiver moves to a different spatial position, the wireless power transmitter 3601 will be assigned the number of antennas, the phase of the RF transmitted, so that the resulting energy beam will keep the receiver targeted. And the amplitude can be changed.

[0153] FIG. 37 shows a wireless power transfer system network according to one embodiment. According to some embodiments, the wireless power transfer system network 3700 can include a plurality of wireless power transfer systems capable of communicating with the remote information service 3777 through the Internet cloud 3769.

[0154] In some embodiments, the wireless power transfer system comprises one or more wireless power transmitters 3701, one or more power receivers 3720, one or more optional backup servers 3767, and a local network. It can be equipped with 3740. According to some embodiments, each power transmitter 3701 can include software from the wireless power transmitter manager 3765 and a distributed wireless power transfer system database 3763. Each power transmitter 3701 can manage power and be capable of transmitting power to one or more power receivers 3720, where each power receiver 3720 is capable of transmitting power to one or more electronic devices. The 3761 can be rechargeable or can power these electronic devices.

[0155] The power transmitter manager 3765 controls the behavior of the power transmitter 3701, monitors the charging status of the electronic device 3761, controls the power receiver 3720, and tracks the position of the power receiver 3720, among others. It is possible to perform power schedules, perform system checkups, and track the energy provided to each of the different electronic devices 3761.

[0156] According to some embodiments, database 3763 is an identifier for electronic device 3761, voltage range, position, signal strength of measurements from power receiver 3720, and / or any association from electronic device 3761. Related information from the electronic device 3761 such as information can be stored. Database 3763 contains information related to the wireless power transfer system such as receiver ID, transmitter ID, end-user handheld device name or ID, system management server ID, charging schedule, charging characteristics, and / or wireless power transfer system network 3700. Any data related to can also be stored. In addition, in some embodiments, database 3763 can store historical and current system status data.

[0157] Past system status data includes, among other things, the amount of power delivered to electronic device 3761, the amount of energy transferred to a group of electronic devices 3761 associated with the user, and electronic device 3761 wireless power transmitter 3701. It can include details such as the amount of time associated with, pairing records, activity in the system, any action or event of any wireless power device in the system, errors, failures and configuration issues. Historical system status data includes power schedules, names, customer sign-in names, authorization and authorization certificates, encryption information, physical areas of system operation, details for running the system, and any other system or User-related information can also be included.

[0158] Current system status data stored in database 3763 is transmitted between location and / or movement, configuration, pairing, errors, failures, alarms, issues, and wireless power devices in the system, among other things. Messages and tracking information can be included.

[0159] According to some exemplary embodiments, the database 3763 in the power transmitter 3701 can further store future system status information, and the future status of the system is the past system status data. Can be predicted or evaluated according to historical data from and current system status data.

[0160] In some embodiments, records from all device databases 3763 in a wireless power transfer system can also be stored in server 3767 and updated periodically. In some embodiments, the wireless power transfer system network 3700 can include two or more servers 3767. In other embodiments, the wireless power transfer system network 3700 may not include server 3767.

[0161] In another exemplary embodiment, the wireless power transmitter 3701 can further make faults in a wireless power transfer system detectable. Examples of failures in the power transmission system 502 can include overheating, malfunctioning, and overloading of any component, among others. If a failure is detected by any of the wireless power transmitters 3701 in the system, the failure can be analyzed by any wireless power transmitter manager 3765 in the system. After the analysis is complete, generate a recommendation or alert and report it to the power transfer system owner, or to a remote cloud-based information service for delivery to the system owner or manufacturer or supplier. Can be done.

[0162] In some embodiments, the power transmitter 3701 can use a network 3740 to send and receive information. The network 3740 can be a local area network or any communication system between the components of a wireless power transfer system. The network 3740, among others, can enable communication between the power transmitter, the system management server 3767 (if present), and other power transfer systems (if present). According to some embodiments, the network 3740 can facilitate data communication between the power transmission system and the remote information service 3777 through the internet cloud 3779.

[0163] The remote information service 3777 can be operated by the system owner, system manufacturer or supplier, or service provider. The remote management system can include a business cloud 3775, software for the remote manager 3737, and a backend server 3769, where the remote manager 3737 can further include a general purpose database 3771. The features of the backend server 3769 and remote manager 3773 can be combined into a single physical or virtual server.

[0164] The general purpose database 3771 can store a further backup of the information stored in the device database 3763. Further, the general-purpose database 3771 can store marketing information, customer billing, customer configuration, customer authentication, and customer support information, among other things. In some embodiments, the general purpose database 3771 can also store information such as less popular features, system errors, problem reports, statistics and quality controls, among others. Each wireless power transmitter 3701 can periodically establish a TCP communication connection with the remote manager 3773 for authentication, problem reporting purposes, or reporting status or usage details, among others.

[0165] FIG. 38 shows a wireless power transfer system architecture 3800 according to an exemplary embodiment. The wireless power transfer system architecture 3800 can include a wireless power transfer system, an internet cloud 3879, and a remote information service 3883. The disclosed wireless power transfer systems include one or more wireless power transmitters 3877, one or more wireless power receivers 3820 that can be coupled or integrated into any client device 3861, and one or more local system management servers. 3867 or cloud-based remote system management server 3873 (eg, backend server), and local network 3840 can be included. Network 3840 connections can refer to any connection between computers, such as an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a virtual private network (VPN), a wireless area network (WAN), and the Internet, among others.

[0166] According to some embodiments, each wireless power transmitter 3877 can include wireless power transmitter manager software 3856, a distributed system database 3883, and software modules for TDM power transfer 3875. Each wireless power transmitter 3877 can manage one or more wireless power receivers 3820 and can transmit power to them, and each wireless power receiver 3820 can manage one or more client devices 3861. Can be rechargeable or can provide power to them. Examples of client devices 3861 can include smartphones, tablets, music players and toys, among others. Certain client devices 3861 can perform system management GUIapp. The application is available on public software app stores or digital application distribution platforms such as Apple iTunes, Android Play Store and / or amazon, from which it can be downloaded and installed.

[0167] According to a further embodiment, the wireless power transmission system includes the system management GUI application on the local system management server 3867 or the cloud-based remote system management server 3873, or runs on this management server. Or you can run it from this management server. Using this system management GUI application, the transmission of wireless power to a particular wireless power receiver 3820, among others, depending on system criteria or operating conditions such as the power transfer schedule and the physical location of the client device 3861. Can be controlled,

[0168] Each wireless power transmitter manager software 3865 controls the behavior of the wireless power transmitter 3877 and, among others, at the time power transfer begins, both the wireless power transmitter 3877 and the wireless power receiver 3820. Unique system identification, number of connected devices, direction angle of antenna used, voltage at power receiver antenna of wireless power receiver 3820, real-time communication connection between wireless power transmitter 508 and wireless power receiver 3820, etc. It is possible to monitor different aspects of the wireless power receiver using these aspects to track information from the wireless power receiver 3820 no matter where it is located or moved. Can be done. In addition, the power transmitter manager software 3865 can control the use of the TDM power transfer 3875, which may allow the wireless power transfer system to enter or leave the TDM power transfer 3875 mode. In particular, the TDM power transfer 3875 mode can control the antenna array of the wireless power transmitter 3877 by reassigning the antenna groups, where each group is used to the client device 3861 in online mode. Power can only be transmitted to it at regular time intervals, while the remaining client devices 3861 in offline mode are waiting to be powered by the wireless power transmitter 3877.

[0169] The wireless power transmitter 3877 was coupled to the wireless power receiver 3820 through TDM power transfer 3875 mode until all client devices 3861 close enough to the wireless power transmitter 3877 received sufficient power. One group of client device 3861 can be brought online, another group of client device 3861 can be taken offline, and vice versa. This TDM power transfer cycle can continue as long as there are too many client devices 3861 in the wireless power transmitter 3877 to power all at the same time.

[0170] According to some embodiments, the distributed system database 3883 may record relevant information from the wireless power receiver 3820, wireless power transmitter 3877, and local system management server 3867 within the client device 3861. can. The information is, but is not limited to, an identifier for the client device 3861, voltage measurements of the power circuit in the wireless power receiver 3820, location, signal strength, ID of the wireless power receiver 3820, ID of the wireless power transmitter 3877. , ID of the end user's handheld device name, ID of the system management server, charging schedule, charging characteristics, and / or any data related to the wireless power transfer system. In addition, the wireless power transmitter 3877, the wireless power receiver 3820 that powers the client device 3861, and the local system management server 3867 can operate as system information generators.

[0171] The distributed system database 3871 organizes, for example, MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, Microsoft SQL server, Microsoft Access, Oracle, SAP, dBASE, FoxPro, IBM DB2, LibreOffice Base, Data, and Data. It can be implemented through a prior art database management system (DBMS), such as any other type of database that can be implemented.

[0172] In some embodiments, the wireless power transmitter 3877 can transmit and receive information using the network 3840. The network 3840 can be a local area network, WIFI, or any communication system between components of a wireless power transfer system. Network 3840 can enable communication between two or more wireless power transmitters 3877, communication of wireless power transmitter 3877 with system management server 3867, and, among other things, wireless power transfer through the Internet cloud 3879. Communication between the system and the remote information service 3883 can be facilitated.

[0173] The remote information service 3883 can be operated by the system owner, manufacturer, system supplier, or service provider. The remote information service 3883 can include different components such as a backend server, a remote information service manager and a general purpose remote information service database.

[0174] FIG. 39 is an exemplary computing device 3900 in which one or more embodiments of an implementation may operate. In one embodiment, the computing device 3900 comprises a bus 3995, an input / output (I / O) device 3985, a communication interface 3987, a memory 3899, a storage device 3991, and a central processing unit 3993. In another embodiment, the computing device 3900 comprises additional, fewer, different, or different arrangements of components relative to the components shown in FIG.

[0175] In FIG. 39, bus 3995 physically communicates with (I / O) device 3985, communication interface 3987, memory 3989, storage device 3991 and central processing unit 3939. Bus 3995 includes a path that allows components within the computing device 3900 to communicate with each other. An example of (I / O) device 3985 is for an examiner or candidate to enter information for a computing device 3900, including a keyboard, computer mouse, buttons, touch screen, touch pad, voice recognition, biomechanism, etc. Includes peripherals and / or other mechanisms that can enable. The (I / O) device 3985 also includes a mechanism that outputs information to the user of the computing device 3900, such as a display, microphone, light emitting diode (LED), printer, speaker, orientation sensor, and the like. The orientation sensor includes one or more accelerometers, one or more gyroscopes, one or more compasses, and the like. The accelerometer gives each change in each angle around each axis. The gyroscope gives each rate of change at each angle around each axis, and the compass gives the compass heading direction.

An example of a communication interface 3987 includes a mechanism that allows a computing device 3900 to communicate with other computing devices and / or systems over a network connection. Examples of memory 3989 include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, and the like. Examples of storage devices 3991 include magnetic and / or optical recording media, ferroelectric RAM (F-RAM) hard disks, solid state drives, floppy disks, optical disks, and the like. In one embodiment, the memory 3989 and the storage device 3991 store information and instructions to be executed by the central processing unit 3993. In another embodiment, the central processing unit 3993 can include a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable object array (FPOA), and the like. In this embodiment, the central processing unit 3993 interprets and executes the instructions retrieved from the memory 3989 and the storage device 3991.

[0177] Examples of these embodiments are servers, authorized computing devices, smartphones, desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet computers, PDAs, and other types capable of receiving, processing, and transmitting digital data. Including processor control devices and the like. In addition, the computing device 3900 can perform certain operations required for proper operation of the system architecture. A suitable computing device 3900 can perform these operations in response to the central processing unit 3991 executing software instructions contained on a computer-readable medium such as memory 3989.

[0178] In one embodiment, the software instructions of the system are from another memory location, such as storage device 3991, or via communication interface 3987, another computing device 3900 (eg, first client device, second). It is read into the memory 3989 from the client device, the computing device, etc.). In this embodiment, the software instructions contained in the memory 3989 cause the central processing unit 3993 to execute the process.

[0179] FIG. 40 is a functional block diagram showing a wireless energy transmission system 4000 for transmitting wireless energy using adaptive 3D pocket forming techniques. In some embodiments, the wireless energy transfer system 4000 comprises a cloud service provider and any number of suitable wireless power transmitters 4001-4001n and any number of suitable wirelessly charged devices. In another embodiment, the wireless energy transmission system 4000 comprises additional, fewer, different, or different arrangements of components relative to the components shown in FIG.

[0180] In FIG. 40, the cloud service provider includes a system management service 4067 and an information distribution service. The wirelessly charged device includes a receiver 4020 to 4020n, a client device 4052 to 4052n, and a GUI 4061 to 4061n, each of which is associated with the device. In some embodiments, there may be additional wirelessly charged devices (eg, up to n), each containing a receiver, client device and GUI.

[0181] In some embodiments, the cloud service provider, wireless power transmitter 4001, and wirelessly charged device communicate with one or more of each other by wire / wireless communication. In these embodiments, the wireless power transmitter 4001 wirelessly couples and communicates with the wirelessly charged device via any suitable wireless protocol. Examples of suitable wireless protocols include Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® low energy, Wi-Fi, ZigBee® and the like.

[0182] In some embodiments, the cloud service provider executes the desired set of applications, including any number of processors, random access memory modules, physical storage drives, wired communication ports, wireless communication ports, and the like. Implemented as computer hardware and software that contains any number of components required for. In an example, a cloud service provider is implemented using one or more components of a computing device. In these embodiments, the cloud service provider manages user certificates, device identification, device authentication, usage and payments associated with one or more users, processes service requests, information requests, and one or more. It runs any software needed to host the system management service 4067, including software that can store and read data related to the user. In other embodiments, the cloud service provider further comprises a database for storing user data, device data, payment data, and the like.

[0183] In some embodiments, the system management service 4067 is used for power transfer from one or more wireless power transmitters to one or more receivers, certificates associated with mobile device users, wireless power transfer. It is configured to manage the associated billing, etc. In these embodiments, the system management service 4067 issues commands to one or more wireless power transmitters 4001, including commands to start, pause, or stop power transmission to one or more wireless power receivers. Hardware and software configured to do so. In an example, a cloud service provider behaves substantially like a computing device. In another example, the system management service 4067 functions substantially like a wireless power manager.

[0184] In some embodiments, the cloud service provider runs any software required to host an information delivery service. Examples of such software include software capable of storing and reading data related to one or more users, performing analysis on the data, and the like. In other embodiments, the information distribution service is configured to collect usage data, billing data, demographic data, etc. from system management service 4067, wireless power transmitter 4001, receiver 4020 and / or client device 4052. Hardware and software. Examples of data are total time spent on charging, total energy sent to the device, monthly average amount of energy delivered to the device, location where energy was sent to the mobile device, demographic description of mobile device users. Including children.

[0185] In another embodiment, the wireless power transmitter 4001 includes any number of processors, random access memory modules, physical storage drives, wired communication ports, wireless communication interfaces that allow coupling to antennas, and the like. It is implemented as computer hardware and software that contains any number of components needed to run the desired set of applications. In an example, the wireless power transmitter 4001 is implemented using one or more components of a computing device. In some embodiments, the wireless power transmitter 4001 uses adaptive 3D pocket forming techniques to wirelessly charge devices (including wireless power receivers) and wireless (combined with one or more electrical devices). It is implemented as a transmitter capable of transmitting power to a power receiver. In these embodiments, one or more wireless power transmitters 4001 communicate with one or more receivers 4020 (as part of a wirelessly charged device or coupled to one or more electrical devices). 3. Position one or more receivers 4020 in 3D space and transmit power signals to form energy pockets in one or more receivers 4020.

[0186] In some embodiments, the wirelessly charged device includes any number of processors, random access memory modules, physical storage drives, wired communication ports, wireless communication interfaces that allow coupling to antennas, and the like. Implemented as computer hardware and software, including any number of components required to run the desired set of applications. In some embodiments, the wirelessly charged device is implemented as a computing device that is coupled to and communicates with a suitable wireless power receiver. Examples of wirelessly charged devices include mobile phones, laptops, portable video game systems, video game controllers and the like. In an example, a wirelessly charged device is implemented using one or more components of a computing device. In some embodiments, the wirelessly charged device is implemented including a receiver (eg, receiver 4020) capable of operating to receive power from a wireless power transmitter using adaptive 3D pocket forming techniques. NS. In these embodiments, a receiver portion (eg, receiver 4020) included in one or more wirelessly charged devices communicates with one or more wireless power transmitters 4001 and is wirelessly charged. Receives energy from an energy pocket formed at the receiver location associated with the device. Devices that are wirelessly charged can include a unique receiver (eg, receiver 4020) or can be coupled to and telecommunications with a separate wireless receiver.

[0187] In operation, the wireless power transmitter 4001 is associated with an individual transmitter using a suitable wireless communication protocol including Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® low energy, ZigBee® and the like. Broadcast the identifier. Examples of suitable identifiers include MAC addresses, IMEIs, serial numbers, ID strings and the like. In other embodiments, the appropriate identifier further includes information about the software version used in the wireless power transmitter 4001. In some embodiments, the client device 4052 within the wirelessly charged device detects one or more identifiers broadcast by one or more wireless power transmitters 4001 and one or more of wireless power transmitters 4001. The graphic representation of is configured to be displayed to mobile device users through GUI4061. In another embodiment, the client device 4052 determines the version of software running on the wireless power transmitter 4001 and uses this version information to wirelessly power within the information broadcast by the wireless power transmitter 4001. Determines the location and format of the identifier associated with transmitter 4001.

[0188] In some embodiments, the client device 4052 communicates to the system management service 4067 a user request, including a request to start charging, suspending charging, terminating charging, empowering payment transactions, and the like. be able to. In another embodiment, the cloud service provider communicates with one or more wireless power transmitters 4001 and manages the distribution of power signals from one or more wireless power transmitters 4001. The wireless power transmitter 4001 is configured to wirelessly communicate with the receiver 4020 and use adaptive 3D pocket forming techniques to transmit a power signal from the wireless power transmitter 4001 to the receiver 4020.

[0189] FIG. 41 is a flowchart of the pairing process 4100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The pairing process 4100 can be started when the electronic device identifies an available power receiver in the system (4121). In this case, the signal strength can be used by the electronic device to monitor the proximity of each of the available power receivers (4123). The electronic device can constantly check whether one of the power receivers is within the proximity range for performing pairing (4125). If none of the power receivers are within range, the electronic device can continue to monitor the proximity of the power receivers. If one of the power receivers is within range, the electronic device can proceed to check database 4127 to determine if the power receiver is already paired (4129). If the power receiver is associated with another electronic device, the electronic device can continue to scan for the power receiver and track their proximity. If the power receiver has no association, the electronic device can start the pairing protocol, start a timer (4131), and continuously monitor the proximity of the power receiver. After some time has passed, the electronic device can check if the power receiver is still in range (4135). If the power receiver is not within the proximity range, the electronic device can continue to track the proximity of the power receiver. If the power receiver is still within proximity, the electronic device can update the database (4137) and associate its ID with the power receiver's ID.

[0190] In some embodiments, the GUI in an electronic device can analyze some signal strength measurements (RSSI) over a predetermined time period before updating the database. In some embodiments, the GUI can calculate signal strength measurements, average them, and compare them to a given reference value. After updating the information in the internal database, the electronic device can send a copy of the updated database to the power transmitter (4139) and the pairing process 4100 can be terminated.

[0191] FIG. 42 is a flowchart of the unpairing process 4200 according to an exemplary embodiment. The unpairing process 4200 constantly monitors the proximity of the power receiver to the electronic device paired with the power receiver (4241) to check if the power receiver is out of pairing range. Can be started when (4243). If there is no change, the electronic device can continue to monitor the proximity of the paired power receiver (4241). If there is a change, the electronic device can start a timer (4245). Over time, the electronic device can check the signal strength of the advertisements (ads) broadcast by the power receiver to determine if the power receiver is still in range (4249). ). This can be done by GUI in the electronic device. The GUI can analyze several signal strength measurements (RSSI) over a predetermined time period. In some embodiments, the GUI can calculate signal strength measurements, average them, and compare them to a given reference value.

[0192] The electronic device may continue to monitor the proximity of the power receiver normally if it determines that the power receiver is still within the proximity range. If the electronic device determines that the power receiver is no longer in proximity, it can proceed to update the internal database (4251) and then send an updated version of the database to the power transmitter ( 4253). In the parallel process, the electronic device begins to scan and identify the available power receivers (4255) and can continuously monitor the proximity of the available power receivers, the unpairing process. The 4200 can be terminated.

[0193] In an exemplary embodiment, a smartphone that includes a GUI for interacting with a wireless charging system is paired with a power receiver built into the cell phone cover. At the first point, the smartphone communicates with the power transmitter, is authenticated, receives the power receiver database, and initiates a scan for the power receiver device. After scanning, the smartphone finds three available power receivers. Smartphones track the proximity of power devices based on signal strength. At the second point, one of the power receivers is located near the smartphone. The smartphone determines that the power receiver is within range and initiates the pairing process. After a few seconds, the smartphone checks the signal strength again and determines that the power receiver is still within acceptable distance for pairing. The smartphone then updates its internal database and sends a copy of the updated database to the power transmitter. At a third point in time, the smartphone sends a power request to the power transmitter. The power transmitter searches the database to determine which receiver is associated with the smartphone, then points the antenna array at the power receiver associated with the smartphone and initiates power transmission.

D. System components that form energy pockets
[0194] FIG. 4 shows the components of an exemplary system 400 for wireless power transfer using a pocket forming procedure. The system 400 can include one or more transmitters 402, one or more receivers 420, and one or more client devices 446.

1. 1. Transmitter
[0195] Transmitter 402 can be any device capable of broadcasting wireless power transfer signals, which can be RF waves 442 for wireless power transfer, as described herein. can. The transmitter 402 can be responsible for performing tasks related to transmitting power transmission signals, which can include pocket formation, adaptive pocket formation and multiple pocket formations. In some embodiments, the transmitter 402 can transmit wireless power transfer to the receiver 420 in the form of an RF wave, which RF wave comprises any radio signal having any frequency or wavelength. Can be done. Transmitter 402 includes one or more antenna elements 406, one or more RFIC 408, one or more microcontrollers 410, one or more communication components 412, power supply 414, and everything for transmitter 402. Provided with a housing in which the required components of the can be placed. Various components of transmitter 402 can include metamaterials, microprints of circuits, nanomaterials, etc., and / or can be manufactured using them.

[0196] In an exemplary system 400, transmitter 402 either transmits or otherwise broadcasts a controlled RF wave 442 that converges at a position in three-dimensional space, thereby forming an energy pocket 444. can do. These RF waves are controlled through phase and / or relative amplitude adjustments and can form intensifying or weakening interfering patterns (ie, pocket formation). The energy pocket 444 can be a field formed in an intensifying interference pattern and can have a three-dimensional shape, whereas a transmit null at a particular physical position is generated in an intensifying interference pattern. be able to. The receiver 420 can take electrical energy from the energy pocket 444 generated by the pocket formation to charge or power the electronic client device 446 (eg, laptop computer, mobile phone). In some embodiments, the system 400 may include a plurality of transmitters 402 and / or a plurality of receivers 420 for powering various electronic devices. Non-limiting examples of client devices 446 can include smartphones, tablets, music players, toys and the like at the same time. In some embodiments, adaptive pocket formation can be used to regulate the power to the electronic device.

2. Receiving machine
[0197] The receiver 420 can include a housing that can include at least one antenna element 424, one rectifier 426, one power converter 428 and a communication component 430.
The housing of the receiver 420 can be made from any material that can facilitate the transmission and / or reception of signals or waves, such as plastic or hard rubber. The housing can be, for example, external hardware that can be attached to different electronic devices in the form of a case, or can be incorporated within the electronic device.

3. 3. Antenna element
[0198] Antenna element 424 of receiver 420 may include any type of antenna capable of transmitting and / or receiving signals in the frequency band used by transmitter 402A. The antenna element 424 can include a combination of vertically or horizontally polarized light, right or left polarized light, elliptically polarized light, or other polarized light, and any number of polarized light. The use of multiple polarizations can be advantageous in devices such as smartphones or portable gaming systems where there is no preferred orientation in use or the orientation may change continuously over time. For devices with a well-defined and expected orientation (eg, a two-handed video game controller), there may be a preferred polarization of the antenna, which allows for a given polarization for multiple antennas. You can specify the ratio. The type of antenna in the antenna element 424 of the receiver 420 can include a patch antenna that can have a height of about 1/8 inch to about 6 inches and a width of about 1/8 inch to about 6 inches. .. The patch antenna can preferably have polarization depending on connectivity, i.e., the polarization can vary depending on which side the patch is supplied from. In some embodiments, the type of antenna can be any type of antenna, such as a patch antenna, capable of dynamically varying the antenna polarization to optimize wireless power transfer.

4. rectifier
[0199] The rectifier 426 of the receiver 420 may include diodes, registers, inductors, and / or capacitors for rectifying the alternating current (AC) voltage generated by the antenna element 424 to a direct current (DC) voltage. .. The rectifier 426 can be technically placed as close to the antenna element 424B as possible to minimize the loss in power energy collected from the power transfer signal. After rectifying the AC voltage, the resulting DC voltage can be adjusted using the power converter 428. The power converter 428 can be a DC / DC converter that can serve to provide a constant voltage output to the electronic device, or to the battery, as in this exemplary system 400, regardless of the input. can. The normal voltage output can be from about 5 volts to about 10 volts. In some embodiments, the power converter can include an electronic switching mode DC / DC converter that can provide high efficiency. In such an embodiment, the receiver 420 may include a capacitor (not shown) positioned in front of the power converter 428 to receive electrical energy. Capacitors can ensure that sufficient current is provided to the electronic switching device (eg, switching mode DC / DC converter), which allows the electronic switching device to operate effectively. When charging an electronic device, such as a telephone or laptop computer, an initial high current may be required that can exceed the minimum voltage required to activate the operation of the electronic switching mode DC / DC converter. be. In such cases, a capacitor (not shown) can be added to the output of receiver 420 to provide the additional energy required. After that, low power can be provided. For example, 1/80 of the total initial power can be used while the phone or laptop is still accumulating charge.

5. Communication component
[0200] The communication component 430 of the receiver 420 can communicate with one or more other devices of the system 400, such as the other receiver 420, the client device, and / or the transmitter 402. Different antenna, rectifier or power converter configurations are possible for the receiver as described in the following embodiments.

E. Method of pocket formation for multiple devices 1. Primary configuration
[0201] FIG. 5 shows a step of powering a plurality of receiver devices according to an exemplary embodiment. In the first step 501, the transmitter (TX) establishes a connection or otherwise works with the receiver (RX). That is, in some embodiments, the transmitter and receiver are capable of transmitting information between two processors of an electrical device, such as a wireless communication protocol (eg, Bluetooth®, BLE, Wi-Fi, etc. Control data can be communicated by using NFC, ZigBee (registered trademark). For example, in an embodiment that implements a Bluetooth® or a variant of Bluetooth®, the transmitter can scan the advertisement signal broadcast by the receiver, or the receiver can scan the advertisement signal. Can be sent to the transmitter. The advertisement signal can inform the transmitter of the presence of the receiver and can trigger the association between the transmitter and the receiver. As described below, in some embodiments, the advertisement signal is performed and managed by various devices (eg, transmitter, client device, server computer, other receiver) to perform and manage the pocket formation procedure. Information that can be used for can be communicated. The information contained within the advertisement signal includes device identifiers (eg, MAC address, IP address, UUID), voltage of received electrical energy, client device power consumption, and other types of data related to power transmission waves. be able to. The transmitter can identify the receiver using the transmitted advertisement signal, and in some cases can locate the receiver in two-dimensional or three-dimensional space. When the transmitter identifies the receiver, the transmitter establishes a connection associated with the receiver at the transmitter, allowing the transmitter and receiver to communicate control signals over a second channel. be able to.

[0202] As an example, when a receiver with a Bluetooth® processor is energized or placed within the detection range of a transmitter, the Bluetooth® processor receives according to the Bluetooth® standard. You can start advertising the aircraft. The transmitter can recognize the advertisement and initiate the establishment of a connection for communicating the control signal and the power transmission signal. In some embodiments, the advertisement signal can include a unique identifier, whereby the transmitter distinguishes the advertisement and, ultimately, all other Bluetooth in the vicinity of the range ( A registered trademark) device and its receiver can be distinguished.

[0203] In the next step 503, when the transmitter detects an advertisement signal, the transmitter can automatically form a communication connection with its receiver, which allows the transmitter and receiver to form a communication connection. It is possible to make it possible to communicate control signals and power transmission signals. The transmitter can then instruct the receiver to start transmitting real-time sample data or control the data. The transmitter can also initiate transmission of power transfer signals from the antennas of the transmitter's antenna array.

[0204] In the next step 505, the receiver then measures the voltage, among other criteria, related to the efficiency of the power transfer signal, based on the electrical energy received by the receiver's antenna. Can be done. The receiver can generate control data including measurement information and then can transmit a control signal containing the control data to the transmitter. For example, the receiver can sample voltage measurements of electrical energy received, for example, at a rate of 100 times per second. The receiver can send the voltage sample measurements back to the transmitter 100 times per second in the form of control signals.

[0205] In the next step 507, the transmitter may execute one or more software modules that monitor a reference such as a voltage measurement received from the receiver. The algorithm can vary the generation and transmission of power transfer signals by the antenna of the transmitter, maximizing the efficiency of the energy pocket around the receiver. For example, the transmitter can adjust the phase in which the transmitter antenna transmits a power transmission signal until the power received by the receiver exhibits pocket energy efficiently established around the receiver. Once the optimal configuration for the antenna has been identified, the transmitter memory can store the configuration to hold the transmitter broadcast at its highest level.

[0206] In the next step 509, the transmitter algorithm determines when it is necessary to adjust the power transmission signal and, in response to the determination that such adjustment is necessary, configures the transmitting antenna. Can also be changed. For example, the transmitter can determine that the power received by the receiver is less than maximum, based on the data received from the receiver. The transmitter can then automatically adjust the phase of the power transfer signal, while at the same time continuing to receive and monitor the voltage reported back from the receiver.

[0207] In the next step 511, after a defined period of time to communicate with a particular receiver, the transmitter scans for advertisements from other receivers that can be within range of the transmitter. , And / or can be detected automatically. The transmitter can establish a connection to the second receiver in response to a Bluetooth® advertisement from the second receiver.

[0208] In the next step 513, after establishing a second communication connection with the second receiver, the transmitter can proceed to tune one or more antennas in the transmitter's antenna array. In some embodiments, the transmitter identifies a subset of antennas for servicing a second receiver, whereby the array can be parsed into a subset of arrays associated with the receiver. .. In some embodiments, the entire antenna array can serve the first receiver over a given period of time, and then the entire array can serve the second receiver over that period. Can be done.

[0209] The manual or automated process performed by the transmitter can select a subset of arrays to service the second receiver. In this example, the array of transmitters can be split in half to form two subsets. As a result, half of the antenna can be configured to transmit the power transfer signal to the first receiver and half of the antenna can be configured for the second receiver. In the current step 513, the transmitter can apply similar techniques discussed above to configure or optimize a subset of antennas for the second receiver. The transmitter and second receiver can communicate control data while selecting a subset of arrays to transmit power transfer signals. As a result, by the time the transmitter alternates back to communicating with the first receiver and / or scanning for a new receiver, the transmitter is by a second subset of the transmitter's antenna array. The phase of the transmitted wave is adjusted to receive a sufficient amount of sample data to effectively transmit the power transmission wave to the second receiver.

[0210] In the next step 515, after adjusting the second subset to transmit the power transfer signal to the second receiver, the transmitter communicates control data with the first receiver, or You can take turns back to scanning for more receivers. The transmitter can reconfigure the antennas of the first subset and then alternate between the first and second receivers at predetermined intervals.

[0211] In the next step 517, the transmitter can continue to alternate between receivers and scan for new receivers at predetermined intervals. When each new receiver is detected, the transmitter can establish a connection and start transmitting power transfer signals accordingly.

[0212] In one exemplary embodiment, the receiver can be electrically connected to a device such as a smartphone. The transmitter processor can scan for any Bluetooth® device. The receiver can initiate an advertisement that this is a Bluetooth® device through the Bluetooth® chip. Within the advertisement, a unique identifier can be present so that when the transmitter scans the advertisement, it distinguishes the advertisement and ultimately all nearby neighbors within range. It is possible to distinguish between other Bluetooth® devices and their receivers. When the transmitter detects the advertisement signal, it recognizes that it is a receiver, then the transmitter immediately forms a communication connection with the receiver, and the receiver sends real-time sample data. You can order to start.

The receiver then measures the voltage at its receiving antenna and sends the voltage sample measurement back to the transmitter (eg, 100 times per second). The transmitter can start changing the configuration of the transmitting antenna by adjusting the phase. When the transmitter adjusts the phase, the transmitter monitors the voltage returned from the receiver. In some embodiments, the higher the voltage, the more energy may be present in the pocket. The antenna phase can be changed until the voltage is at its highest level and there is a maximum energy pocket around the receiver. The transmitter can hold the antenna in a particular phase so that the voltage is at the highest level.

[0214] The transmitter may change each individual antenna, one at a time. For example, if there are 32 antennas in the transmitter and each antenna has 8 phases, the transmitter can start from the 1st antenna and the 1st antenna goes through all 8 phases. To do so. The receiver can then send back the power level for each of the eight phases of the first antenna. The transmitter can then store the highest phase of the first antenna. The transmitter can repeat this process for the second antenna through eight phases. The receiver can again send back the power level from each phase, and the transmitter can memorize the highest level. The transmitter can then repeat the process for the third antenna and continue the process until all 32 antennas have gone through eight phases. At the end of the process, the transmitter can transmit the maximum voltage to the receiver in the most efficient way.

[0215] In another exemplary embodiment, the transmitter can detect the advertisement of the second receiver and form a communication connection with the second receiver. When the transmitter forms communication with the second receiver, the transmitter aims the original 32 antennas towards the second receiver and is aimed at the second receiver. The phase process can be repeated for each of the 32 antennas. When the process is complete, the second receiver can get as much power as possible from the transmitter. The transmitter communicates with the second receiver for 1 second, then alternates back to the first receiver for a predetermined period of time (eg, 1 second), and the transmitter returns to the first receiver at predetermined intervals. It is possible to switch between the receiver and the second receiver alternately and continue reciprocating.

[0216] In yet another embodiment, the transmitter can detect the advertisement of the second receiver and form a communication connection with the second receiver. First, the transmitter communicates with the first receiver, reallocates half of the thirty-two exemplary antennas aimed at the first receiver, and only 16 become the first receiver. Can be dedicated. The transmitter can then allocate the second half of the antennas to the second receiver and dedicate 16 antennas to the second receiver. The transmitter can adjust the phase for the second half of the antenna. When the 16 antennas go through each of the eight phases, the second receiver can get the maximum voltage in the most efficient way for the receiver.

2. Determining the optimal position for pocket formation
[0217] FIG. 43 shows a flow chart 4300 for tracking and positioning. This flowchart can be used to determine the optimal position and orientation of electronic devices that can receive power and / or charge through wireless power transfer, among others, by algorithms in controllers, CPUs, processors, and computers. Can be done. To achieve optimum efficiency, the electronic device can use a wide variety of sensors to determine the voltage level and / or power level in the battery received when wireless power transfer begins (4359). Such a sensor can indicate whether the device is receiving power with maximum available efficiency (4359). Examples of sensors and / or circuits that determine power efficiency include accelerometers, ambient light sensors, GPS sensors, compasses, proximity sensors, pressure sensors, gyroscopes, infrared sensors, motion detectors, OPS sensor circuits and / or optional. It can include one or more of other types of sensors or circuits.

[0218] Maximum available efficiency can depend on distance from the transmitter, obstacles, and temperature, among other things. If the device is receiving power at maximum available efficiency, the application, software or program installed on the electronic device and / or in the receiver will recognize this and / or maintain its current position. The user can be notified (4363). In addition, if the device is receiving power with an efficiency lower than the maximum available efficiency, the software or program uses a wide variety of sensors to track and determine the optimal position of the electronic device with respect to the position and orientation of the transmitter. can do. Sensors, among others, can include accelerometers, infrared rays, and OPS. In addition, the communication module allows communication interrelationships to be used for tracking and positioning. Communication modules include, among others, Bluetooth® technology, infrared communication, Wi-Fi, FM radio, and these can be combined. By comparing the received voltage level and / or power at each position and / or orientation of the electronic device, the software and / or program will reposition the device to orient it in the optimal position and / or orientation. Can be notified and / or the user can be guided (4365).

[0219] FIG. 44A shows a wireless power transfer 4400A in which transmitter 4401A can cause pocket formation across multiple mobile phones 4452A. As shown in FIG. 44A, the wireless power transfer 4400A charges and / or carries the mobile phone 4452A with low efficiency due to the antenna 4406B in the receiver sometimes facing the same direction of the RF wave 4442B. It may provide power to the phone, so the energy pocket 4404A may provide lower charge and / or power to antenna 4406B.

[0220] FIG. 44B illustrates wireless power transfer in which a mobile phone receives charge and / or power with low efficiency, according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in FIG. 44B, by turning the mobile phone 4452B 180 °, the antenna 4406B can receive power with higher efficiency, such efficiency as directing the antenna 4406B in the opposite direction of the RF wave 4442B. Can be achieved due to being able to turn to.

3. 3. Receiver to start charging
[0221] FIG. 45 is a flowchart of the charging request process 4500 according to an exemplary embodiment. Process 4500 can be initiated when an electronic device, including a GUI for interacting with the wireless charging system, communicates with the power transmitter (4569). During communication, the electronic device can transmit information, among others, including device ID and charging status to the power transmitter. The power transmitter can update its database and can send a copy containing the IDs of available power transmitters in the system to electronic devices. The electronic device can then check if its ID is already associated with the ID of the power receiver (4571).

[0222] If the electronic device is not already paired, the electronic device can initiate a scan in search of a power receiver (4573). All power receivers in the system can broadcast the advertisement message at any time. The advertisement message can include a unique 32-bit device ID and system ID or UUID (universally unique identifier). In some embodiments, the advertisement message may include additional information. The electronic device can monitor the signal strength of the advertisement being broadcast by different power receivers and can track the proximity of the power receiver to the electronic device.

[0223] When an electronic device detects that a power receiver is within proximity for an amount of time, it checks the database to see if the power receiver is already paired with another electronic device. You can proceed to determine if. If the power receiver is not already paired with another device, the electronic device can update the database during pairing (4575) by associating the power receiver's ID with the electronic device's ID. The electronic device can then send a copy of the updated database to the power transmitter.

[0224] Once the electronic device has been paired, the user can send a power request to the power transmitter through the GUI within the electronic device or the electronic device (4577). The power transmitter can turn on the power receiver if it deems it appropriate to provide power to the electronic device (4579).

The power transmitter can then aim the antenna array at the power receiver associated with the electronic device and begin transmitting energy to the power receiver. The power receiver can then start charging the electronic device (4581). The process can be terminated when the electronic device is charged.

[0226] FIG. 46 shows an exemplary routine 4600 that can be used to control wireless power transfer from the transmitter 4600 by a microcontroller. Routine 4600 can be started when transmitter 4600 receives power delivery request 4863 from receiver. At power delivery request (4863), the receiver receives delayed coding, orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), code division multiplexing (CDM), or other binary code to identify a given electronic device, including the receiver. It is possible to transmit a signature signal that can be encoded using a technique such as conversion. At this stage, the microcontroller can proceed to authentication (4685), in which the microcontroller can evaluate the signature signal transmitted by the receiver. Based on the certification (4685), the microcontroller can proceed to the determination (4678). If the receiver is not authorized to receive power, the microcontroller determines in determination 4387 that it does not deliver power (4689), thereby terminating routine 4600 at termination (4691). On the other hand, if the receiver is authorized to receive power, the microcontroller can proceed to determine the device type (4693). In this step, the microcontroller can obtain information from the receiver, such as device type, manufacturer, serial number, total power required, battery level, etc., among other such information. The microcontroller can then proceed to run the device module (4695), where the device module can run routines suitable for the authenticated device. In addition, if multiple receivers require power, the microcontroller can deliver power equally to all receivers, or can utilize priority status for each receiver. Such priority status can be user-defined. In some embodiments, the user may choose to deliver more power to his or her smartphone than to his or her gaming device. In another example, the user can decide to power his smartphone first and then his gaming device.

[0227] FIG. 47 shows an example of routine 4700 that can be utilized by a microcontroller in a device module. Routine 4700 can initiate power delivery profile determination (4741), where routine 4700 can decide to run with the default power profile or with a user custom profile. In the former case, the microcontroller can proceed to battery level verification (4743), where the microcontroller can determine the power demand of the electronic device, including the receiver. The microcontroller can then proceed to determination 4745. In determination 4745, if the battery of the electronic device, including the receiver, is fully charged, the microcontroller can proceed to not delivering power (4747), thus ending routine 4700 at the end (4751). .. On the other hand, if the battery of the electronic device, including the receiver, is not fully charged, the microcontroller proceeds to verify in determination 4794 whether such electronic device meets certain power supply criteria. Can be done. The above power supply standards can rely on electronic devices that require power. For example, a smartphone can receive power only when it is not in use, or it can receive power during use only when the user is not talking on the smartphone, among other criteria. , Or power can be received during use as long as the Wi-Fi is not compromised. For user custom profiles, among many such options, the user can also specify the minimum battery level that his device can have before delivering power, or the user can specify his device. You can also specify the criteria for supplying power to.

[0228] Alternatively, the microcontroller can also record data to a processor on the transmitter. Such data is how often the device needs power, when the device requests power, how long it takes to power the device, and how much to such a device. It can include power supply statistics about whether the power was delivered, the priority status of the device, and where the device is primarily powered (eg, home or work). In addition, such statistics can be uploaded to a cloud-based server so that users can see all such statistics. In some embodiments, stores, coffee shops, etc. that provide wireless power as a secondary service can use the statistics described above to charge the user a corresponding amount for the total power received. In some cases, the user can purchase power supply time, for example, the user can pay for one hour of power. Thus, the statistics described above can help the microcontroller determine when to stop delivering power to such users.

4. Transmitter to start charging
[0229] FIG. 48 shows a transmitter according to an exemplary embodiment that creates at least one energy pocket on a portable mat that can further redirect power to other receiving devices. FIG. 48 shows an alternative configuration for WPT in the form of wireless power transfer 4800, where the transmitter 4801 can generate at least one energy pocket 4804 on the portable mat 4894. Matt 4894 receives wireless power from transmitter 4801 and at least one for retransmitting such power to a device, eg, a smartphone 3852 operatively coupled to a receiver (not shown) through pocket formation. It can include one receiver and at least one transmitter (not shown). In some embodiments, the matt 4894 can communicate with the transmitter 4801 by a short RF signal transmitted through its antenna element or via a standard communication protocol. The above can allow the transmitter 4801 to easily locate the mat 4894. The disclosed configuration can be advantageous whenever the smartphone 4852 is unable to communicate directly with the transmitter 4801. This configuration can be advantageous as the mat 4894 can be virtually placed in any desired easily reachable position. Finally, the transmitter 4801 can include a button (not shown) similar to the button on the transmitter 4801 that can generate an energy pocket 4804 on the mat 4894 at startup. The duration of the energy pocket 4804 on the mat 4894 can be custom defined to meet the needs of different users. A further advantage of WPT is that other devices can be placed in the vicinity of the mat 4894 and can receive power wirelessly as well, i.e. electronic devices that require charging are placed on the mat 4894. It may even not be necessary to be done.

[0230] FIG. 49 includes FIGS. 49A and 49B depicting wireless power transfer 4900A. First, referring to FIG. 49A, the smartphone 4952A operatively coupled to the receiver (not shown) may not have available power and may not be able to communicate with the transmitter 4901A. In this embodiment, a tracer can be used to communicate to transmitter 4901A where power should be delivered. The tracer may include a communication component (not shown) internally to communicate the above location to the transmitter 4901A, as described above for the transmitter and receiver. Such communication components can be activated at the request of the user. For example, the tracer can include an activation button (not shown) that can activate the communication components described above after being pressed.

[0231] FIG. 49B shows wireless power transfer, according to an exemplary embodiment, including a tracer that can serve to establish a desired position for creating energy pockets across at least one receiving device.

[0232] After this activation, the communication component can send a request to the transmitter 4901A to generate the energy pocket 4904B at the tracer position. To charge the smartphone 4952A, the user can activate the tracer at the same or close position on the smartphone 4952A (FIG. 49B). When accumulating the required charge, the smartphone 4952A can optionally communicate its location to the transmitter 4901A (by its own means) to continue wireless power delivery. In other embodiments, the energy pocket 4904B can occur in an area or region of space where the user may be beneficial or easy to reach, but electronic devices may not be present. In this case, an electronic device that requires charging, such as a smartphone 4952A, can be moved to the above position to use the energy pocket 4904B. The duration of the energy pocket 4904B in the absence of electronic devices that require charging can be custom defined by the user. In some other embodiments, the duration of the energy pocket 4904B can be given by the action of the tracer, for example, at the time of activation of the tracer, at least one energy pocket 4904B can be generated. Such an energy pocket 4904B can remain active until the second press of the tracer activation button.

[0233] In the above configuration of wireless power transfer, electronic devices such as smartphone 4952A can utilize smaller and cheaper receivers. The above can be achieved due to the fact that the receiver may not require its own communication component to communicate the location with the transmitter 4901A. Rather, tracers can be used to perform such functions. In such other embodiments, the tracer can take the form of an accessory that can be connected to an electronic device via a connection such as a universal serial bus (USB). In this case, the tracer can be activated when connected to the device and can control the integrity of wireless power delivery. In some embodiments, the user can generate as much energy pocket 4904B as the device requires charging.

[0234] FIG. 50 shows that the user holding the tracer 5098 creates various energy pockets 5004 at different locations to power various electronic devices that may include receivers for pocket formation. The wireless power transfer 5000 which can be shown. The energy pocket 5004 can be formed by the transmitter 5001 at a position specified by the user at the time of request. Further, as the device accumulates charge, the device can optionally communicate its location to transmitter 5001 (by its own means) to continue wireless power delivery.

5. Power supply for multiple devices using time division multiplexing
[0235] FIG. 51 shows a flow chart illustrating a method of automatically allocating a subset of antenna arrays for simultaneously powering two or more client devices, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0236] Method 5100 allows a user or system operator to access the system management GUI through a website or on a client computing device and pair it with an adaptive paired receiver. Alternatively, it can be initiated when instructing the wireless power transfer system to charge a client device, including a wireless power receiver built in as part of the device's hardware (5153). In other embodiments, the system auto-charging schedule can also instruct the wireless power transfer system to charge the client device. The system management can then send a charging command to all system transmitters (5155). Each system transmitter can determine if it is within the power range of the power receiver, and if not within the power range, it controls the wireless receiver of the client device to power it. The best transmitter can be selected (5157), after which the selected transmitter initiates real-time communication with the wireless power receiver and tracks the direction of the wireless power receiver with respect to the transmit antenna array. (5159), the entire power transmission antenna array is aimed at the wireless power receiver and power transmission is started. The wireless power receiver can then receive the power and then power the client device.

[0237] Following method 5100, the user or auto-schedule software can instruct the second client device to charge (5161), after which the selected transmitter receives the second client device. It initiates real-time communication with the machine, tracks the direction of the second wireless power receiver, and splits the transmitter's antenna array in half (5163), whereby the transmitter is half or half of the power antenna array. A subset can be aimed and used to power the first client device, and the remaining antennas can be aimed and used to power the second client device, both. Allows the client device to continuously receive power. Then, in determination 5165, if the user or auto-schedule software commands more client devices to charge, the selected transmitter initiates real-time communication with a third or subsequent client device. , The antenna array can be reassigned (5167) by dividing the antenna array into a subset of antennas to aim and power each receiver. If there are no more client devices to charge, the system manager can check in determination 5169 whether any of the charged or powered client devices are out of power and then If one or more client devices are powered down, a subset of the antenna array allocated to power the receivers of said client device is redistributed among the receivers of the remaining client devices ( 5171), the receiver can continue to be powered. This process can occur almost instantly for powered devices, as the transmitter software has already tracked their exact orientation with respect to the antenna array and is using it quickly. If none of the client devices are out of power, the system manager can check in determination 5165 for the presence of additional client devices to charge and follow the same steps described above. This method can continue in a loop as long as the wireless power supply system charges or powers the receivers of one or more client devices.

[0238] FIG. 52 shows a flowchart of an exemplary routine 5200 that can be utilized by wireless power management software. This routine can be initiated in step 5273 to instruct the system to charge one or more client devices by the system management GUI. Systems management can deliver commands to all system transmitters managed by wireless management software. The management software can then determine in determination 5275 whether there are sufficient antennas and communication channels available, based on the number of client devices charged. If there are sufficient antennas and communication channels to charge the client device, in step 5277, the management software can assign the closest transmitter to charge the client device and assign a dedicated communication channel to the client. Communication with the device can be started. Dedicated communication channels are used to continuously track client device directions from a power transfer antenna array, or to monitor battery levels, or to receive measurements or other telemetry or metadata from a receiver, or. It can be for any other feature that supports wireless power transfer. The dedicated communication channel can be selected from the channels available for communication with the client device.

[0239] The wireless management software can then continue to charge the client device at determination 5279 until more devices request power. Routine 5200 can be terminated if there are no additional client devices requesting power. On the other hand, if more devices are demanding power, at determination 5279, the wireless power manager can determine if there are sufficient antennas and communication channels available for the new client device. In the absence of sufficient antennas and communication channels, in step 5281 wireless power manager can allocate all antennas or groups of antennas from the antenna array and communication channels by utilizing time division multiplexing (TDM). ..

[0240] TDM is used for transmitter communication with more power receivers than having channels by sharing the channels available over time. The TDM takes turns communicating with each receiver and communicating with each for a finite amount of time. This amount of time can be a short amount of time such as 1 second or less. By allowing high frequency communication with all receivers by sharing a limited number of transmitter communication channels, the transmitter tracks and / or receives all these receivers. It can power the machine (and then the client device to which the power receiver transmits power).

[0241] TDM also supports sharing of power transmission from the entire transmitter antenna array between all devices over time. That is, the transmitter can track the receiver orientation (angle) with respect to the transmitter antenna array as it automatically switches communications throughout the receiver scheduled to receive power. The transmitter also rapidly redirects the antenna array from one receiver to another, allowing each scheduled receiver to periodically obtain antenna power during its "time slice". The transmitter can also direct individual groups (subsets) of antennas to a particular receiver while simultaneously directing one or more other groups to one or more other receivers.

[0242] The TDM charges between the transmitter and the power receiver of the client device, and in more detail, by using an existing communication channel that can be shared by two or more devices rather than a dedicated channel. Can be used to enable communication. By using TDM techniques, wireless power transmitters can allow a group of client devices to reassign one or more of their individual transmitting antennas and communication channels. As a result, these client devices can be powered simultaneously in online mode. The remaining client devices can be put into offline mode while the online client device is powered and holds the communication channel for a limited time interval.

[0243] The wireless power manager can then continue to charge the client device at determination 5279 until more devices request power. Finally, in determination 5279, routine 5200 can be terminated if there are no additional client devices requesting power.

[0244] FIG. 53 is a flow chart of a process 5300 according to an embodiment that powers a plurality of client devices using a time division multiplexing (TDM) method in a wireless power transfer system. In step 5383, in step 5383, the system management GUI operated by the user in the wireless power transmitter system manually or automatically powers the system management server from the wireless power receiver to one or more client devices. Can be started when commanding. Then, in step 5385, the system management server can communicate commands to one or more wireless power transmitters in the wireless power transfer system.

[0245] In step 5387, each wireless power transmitter determines whether the transmitter is within the power range of the client device, a local system distributed database, or other storage of system status, control, and formation. The means can be inspected and the wireless power receiver of the client device instructed to receive power can be controlled. If the client device's wireless power receiver is not within the power range of the wireless power transmitter, the process can be terminated. On the other hand, if the wireless power receiver of the client device is within the power range of any wireless power transmitter, in step 5389, the wireless power transmitter initiates real-time communication with the wireless power receiver of the client device. Can be done. Each time there is one or more powered client devices commanded to the wireless power transmitter, the wireless power transmitter can subdivide its power transfer antenna into groups, where , Each group can be assigned to each client device and can power all client devices at the same time.

[0246] The system management server in the wireless power transfer system then wirelessly in step 5391 if there are not enough transmitter antennas to power all the wireless power receivers of the client device within the power range. You can instruct the power transmitter. In step 5393, the wireless power transmitter can continue to power all client devices if the transmitter antenna in the wireless power transmitter can meet the power demands of all wireless power receivers. .. On the other hand, if the current power resources of the wireless power transmitter do not meet the power demand of all wireless power receivers, in step 5395, the system management server informs the power transmitter manager of TDM power transfer within the wireless power transmitter. You can order it to be done. The wireless power manager in the wireless power transmitter can receive commands about the client device being powered and can determine which wireless power receiver is associated with the client device.

[0247] Wireless power transmitters can group or reassign one or more of their transmitting antennas by using TDM power transfer, so that each group has a different wireless power receiver. The power is transmitted to the receiver so that the receiver's client device receives the power at the same time. The remaining client devices with wireless power receivers can be set offline while the online client device is powered. The TDM power transmission system can determine in step 5397 whether the online client device has sufficient power. If the online client device does not have enough power, that is, one or more client devices may not receive enough power, the wireless power transmitter sets one or more online client devices offline. , Try again, then proceed to take more devices offline until all online client devices receive sufficient power.

[0248] In step 5399, the TDM power transfer process uses an automatic online / offline process to ensure that the wireless power transmitter powers all client devices sufficiently at regular time intervals (or time slots). Can be made possible.

[0249] Similarly, if there is not enough power for the current online client device, the client devices that have been online for the longest time are taken offline one by one until all the online client devices have enough power. can do. On the other hand, if the client devices in online mode receive sufficient power, in step 5393, TDM power transfer can decide to keep the same amount of client devices in online mode and power them.

[0250] FIG. 54 is a flow chart of process 5400 for adjusting the number of antennas assigned to a wireless power receiver so that power transfer from the wireless power transmitter to the receiver is more balanced. Process 5400 can be part of the overall process for wireless power transfer and can be performed by a microprocessor that can be part of the system architecture. Process 5400 can be executed by the processor by executing software code in a power transmission management application such as the power transmitter manager app. In some embodiments, the processor can execute process 5400 by executing a planned instruction in a wireless power manager application, and in yet other embodiments, the processor is not part of the system architecture. Process 5400 can be executed by executing a planned instruction in a software application.

[0251] Code executed by a microprocessor can initiate or terminate activity on some component of the system architecture. As an alternative to what is indicated in the system architecture, wired circuits can be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to carry out the processes described herein. For this reason, the embodiments described herein are not limited to any particular combination of hardware circuitry and software. The blocks in the disclosed process 5400 are shown in a particular order, but the actual order may differ. In some embodiments, some steps can be performed in parallel.

[0252] The process begins at step 5451 when the processor commands the wireless power transmitter (WPT) to communicate with a wireless power receiver (WPR) that is close enough to establish communication with this WPT. can do. The WPR can communicate data to the WPT that can include, among other things, the WPR identification number, the WPR's approximate spatial position, and the WPR's power status. At step 5453, the processor can determine whether the WPT should transmit power to the WPR from the received data and additional data that can be stored in a database such as a database. If the processor determines that the WPT should not power the WPR, it can continue to search for additional wireless power receivers that are in range and should be powered in step 5465. If the processor determines that the WPT should power the WPR, at step 5455 the processor determines the appropriate approximate spatial position data received from the WPR, as well as the signal strength, WPT type, WPR, among others. A better approximation of the position of the WPR can be calculated by using additional metrics that can include device types that can be attached.

[0253] At step 5457, the processor can instruct the WPT to assign a set of antennas from the antenna array that can be used to transmit RF waves to the WPR. At step 5459, the processor can instruct the WPT to change its amplitude and phase, among other parameters of the transmitted RF wave, to form a beam that can be focused on the WPR. At step 5461, the processor can read status data that can come from the WPR. The status data coming from the WPR, among other operating parameters, powers the measured energy received by the WPR, the power level of the WPR, the perceived spatial position of the WPR, and the electronic device to which the WPR can be attached. It can contain a minimum amount of power sufficient to do so. In some embodiments, the minimum power setting can come from other sources such as look-up tables elsewhere in the system.

[0254] In step 5436, the processor uses the read information to determine if the power transmitted to the WPR is unbalanced compared to other WPRs, or to obtain any WPR. It is possible to determine whether the power is excessively high or too low. If the power received by the WPR is less than the minimum power, the processor returns to step 5457 to assign the WPT more antennas to a set of antennas that can be used to power the WPR. You can order. In some embodiments, if the number of available antennas is not sufficient to power the WPR, the WPT will utilize techniques such as time division multiplexing to share more antennas with the WPR. It is possible to meet the power demand of WPR that may be within the power range of one or more wireless power transmitters. Techniques such as time division multiplexing can allow multiple WPRs to be charged through regular time intervals or slot times during automatic online and offline mode sequences.

[0255] If the power received by the WPR is substantially greater than the minimum power required by the WPR, the processor returns to step 5457 and instructs the WPT to reduce the number of antennas assigned to the WPR. The deassigned antenna is then used to power other WPRs, allowing the first WPR to continue to be wirelessly powered at the same time. At step 5465, the processor can look for another wirelessly powered receiver that is within range and should be powered, and if found, the process returns to step 5453 to communicate with the new WPR. Can be started and the process from step 5453 can be repeated. When the processor determines from the communication with the WPR that the WPT has finished transmitting power to the WPR, the processor may return to step 5451, communicate to the WPR that the power transmission has ended, and disconnect the communication in step 5453. can. The WPT can then inspect the database in step 5465 to determine which WPR, if present, is within the range in which the WPT should transmit power.

[0256] FIG. 55A depicts a block diagram of a transmitter 5500A that can be used for wireless power transfer. Such transmitters 5500A transmit one or more antenna elements 5506A, one or more radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs) 5508A, one or more microcontrollers 5510A, communication components 5512A, power supplies 5514A, and transmission. It can be equipped with a housing 5501A capable of arranging all the required components for the machine 5500A. The components in the transmitter 5500A can be manufactured using metamaterials, circuit microprints, nanomaterials and the like.

[0257] Transmitter 5500A can be responsible for pocket formation, adaptive pocket formation and multiple pocket formation through the use of the components mentioned in the paragraph above. Transmitter 5500A can transmit wireless power transfer in the form of radio signals to one or more receivers, such signals including any radio signal having any frequency or wavelength.

[0258] FIG. 55B is an exemplary diagram of a flat panel antenna array 5500B that can be used in the transmitter 5500A. At this time, the flat panel antenna array 5500B can include N antenna elements 5506A, where the gain requirements for power transmission are 64 which can be distributed in a grid arranged at equal intervals. It can be ~ 256 antenna elements 5506A. In one embodiment, the flat panel antenna array 5500B can have an 8x8 grid with a total of 64 antenna elements 5506A. In another embodiment, the flat panel antenna ray 5500B can have a 16x16 grid with a total of 256 antenna elements 5506A. On the other hand, the number of antenna elements 5506A may vary with respect to the desired range and power transfer capacity of the transmitter 5500A, and the larger the number of antenna elements 5506A, the wider the range and the higher the power transmission capacity. Alternative configurations are also possible, including circular patterns or polygonal arrangements. The flat panel antenna array 5500B can also be divided into a large number of parts and dispersed over a plurality of surfaces (multifaceted surfaces).

[0259] The antenna element 5506A can include a planar antenna element 5506A, a patch antenna element 5506A, a dipole antenna element 5506A, and any antenna suitable for wireless power transfer. Suitable antenna types can include patch antennas that can have a height of about 1/2 inch to about 6 inches and a width of about 1/2 inch to about 6 inches. The shape and orientation of the antenna element 5506A may vary depending on the desired characteristics of the transmitter 5500A, and the orientation may be flat on the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis and vary in three-dimensional arrangement. Orientation type and combination may be used. The material of the antenna element 5506A can include any suitable material capable of enabling radio signal transmission with high efficiency, good heat dissipation and the like.

[0260] The antenna element 5506A can include an antenna type suitable for operating in a frequency band such as 900 MHz, 2.5 GHz or 5.8 GHz. This is because these frequency bands comply with Part 18 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Regulations (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical Equipment). The antenna element 5506A operates at independent frequencies and can enable multi-channel operation of pocket formation.

[0261] Further, the antenna element 5506A can have at least one polarization or polarization selection. Such polarization can include a vertical pole, a horizontal pole, a circular polarization, a left polarization, a right polarization, or a combination of polarizations. The choice of polarization can vary depending on the characteristics of the transmitter 5500A. Further, the antenna element 5506A can be located on various surfaces of the transmitter 5500A.

[0262] Antenna element 5506A can operate in a single array, pair array, quad array, and any other suitable configuration that can be designed according to the desired application.

[0263] FIG. 56 shows an antenna array 5686A according to various embodiments. The antenna array 5686A can include antenna types suitable for operating in frequency bands such as 900 MHz, 2.5 GHz or 5.8 GHz. This is because these frequency bands comply with Part 18 of the FCC Regulations.

[0264] FIG. 56A shows a single array 5686A in which all antenna elements 5606B can operate at 5.80 hz. Thus, a single array 5686A can be used to charge or power a single device.

[0265] FIG. 56B shows a pair array 5686B in which the upper half 5688B of the antenna element 5606B can operate at 5.8 GHz and the lower half 5690B can operate at 2.4 GHz. Next, the pair array 5686B can be used to simultaneously charge and power two receivers capable of operating in different frequency bands, such as the frequency band described above. As shown in FIG. 56B, the antenna element 5606B can vary in size according to the antenna type.

[0266] FIG. 56C shows a quad array 5686C in which each antenna element can be virtually split to avoid power loss during wireless power transfer. In this embodiment, each antenna element can be virtually divided into two antenna elements, that is, an antenna element 5649C and an antenna element 5692C. The antenna element 5694C can be used for transmission in the frequency band of 5.8 GHz, and the antenna element 5692C can be used for transmission in the frequency band of 2.4 GHz. The quad array 5686C can then be used in situations where multiple receivers operating in different frequency bands need to be charged or powered.

[0267] In the first exemplary embodiment, a portable electronic device capable of operating at 2.4 GHz can be powered or charged. In this example, a transmitter can be used to deliver the energy pocket onto one electronic device. This transmitter can have a single 8x8 array of flat panel antennas in which all antenna elements can operate at a frequency standby of 2.4 GHz, with the flat antenna occupying more than any other antenna. The volume can be reduced, which allows the transmitter to be placed in a small, thin space such as a wall, mirror, door, ceiling, etc. In addition, flat panel antennas can be optimized for wireless power transfer to operate over long distances in narrow passages, such features allow portable devices to be used in train stations, bus stops, airports, etc. It can be made possible to operate in long areas. In addition, the 8x8 flat panel antenna can generate smaller energy pockets than other antennas due to its small volume, which can reduce the loss and more accurate energy pockets. Such precision can allow generation to charge or power a wide variety of portable electronic devices near and / or objects that do not require energy pockets near or above. Can be used.

[0268] In a second exemplary embodiment, two electronic devices capable of operating in two different frequency bands can be powered simultaneously or charged simultaneously. In this example, a transmitter can be used to deliver the energy pocket to two electronic devices. In this example, the transmitter can have a pair array with different types of antennas, i.e. flat panel antennas and dipole antennas, where half of the antennas can be formed by flat panel antennas. The other half can be formed by a dipole antenna. As described in the first exemplary embodiment, the flat panel antenna can be optimized to radiate power into a narrow passage at a considerable distance. On the other hand, dipole antennas radiate power at closer distances, but can be used to cover additional areas due to their radiation patterns. In addition, the dipole antenna can be adjusted manually, which feature can be advantageous when the transmitter is placed in a congested space and transmission needs to be optimized.

[0269] FIG. 57 is a chart 5700 depicting an exemplary distribution of communication channels over time using TDM in wireless power transfer. More specifically, FIG. 57 depicts a table with channel allocations to five client devices, whereas wireless power transmitters allow only four communication channels.

[0270] The chart of FIG. 57 shows how to use a limited number of four communication channels of transmitters to communicate with five receivers, i.e., more receivers than the number of transmitters having channels. Show over time what can be done. Time progresses from left to right, representing 10 time slices. Each time slice represents a finite amount of clock time, eg 1 second. Each "Cn" indicates one of the communication channels of the transmitter. Each "Rn" refers to one of the wireless power receivers that receives power from the wireless transmitter and then transmits the power to the client device.

[0271] During time slice t0, the transmitter uses channel C1 to communicate with receiver R1, channel C2 to communicate with receiver R2, C3 to communicate with R3, and C4 to communicate with R4. There is no communication with the receiver R5.

[0272] During time slice t1, the transmitter now communicates with receiver R5 using channel C1, thereby R5 getting the turn to receive power and receiver R2 with the transmitter through channel C2. The receiver R3 continues using the channel C3, and the receiver R4 continues using the channel C4. There is no communication with receiver R1.

[0273] During time slice t2, the transmitter now communicates with receiver R1 using channel C2, whereby R1 gets the turn to receive power and receiver R3 with the transmitter through channel C3. The receiver R4 continues using the channel C4, and the receiver R5 continues using the channel C1. There is no communication with receiver R2.

[0274] During a time slice in which the transmitter is communicating with a particular receiver, the transmitter can use that communication to obtain the receiver power status from the receiver, and that value is used by the transmitter. Aim the transmitter antenna at its receiver and power the receiver's client device. The system can control the aiming of the antenna to the receiver using other methods such as receiver beacon signal transmission and transmitter beacon signal reception. The transmitter can aim a subset of the antenna array to each of the four receivers in communication.

[0275] The pattern continues throughout the time while the receiver is scheduled to receive power by the user. More receivers can be added to the scheduled receivers, or some can be removed. If there are more than four transmit channels available (four in this example), the channels are shared over time (TDM), which allows the transmitter to communicate with any number of receivers. If there are no more transmit channels available, the transmitter dedicates each channel to a particular receiver.

[0276] An exemplary distribution of communication channels utilizing TDM in wireless power transfer in a table with channel allocations to 5 client devices, whereas wireless power transmitters allow only 4 communication channels. It is drawn. The wireless power manager can utilize the TDM technique when the fifth client device R5 is instructed to start charging at time step t1. Then, in the time step t1, the wireless power manager can instruct the wireless power transmitter to stop communication with the first client device R1 using the first communication channel C1 and the fifth client device. Real-time communication using the first communication channel C1 with R5 is started. Then, at the time stage t2 after a finite amount of time, the wireless power manager can order the wireless power transmitter to stop communicating with the second client device R2 using the second communication channel C2. The wireless power transmitter can then resume communication with the first client device R1 using the second communication channel C2, aiming the antenna group at the first client device Rl. Then, at the time step t3 after a finite amount of time, the wireless power manager can order the wireless power transmitter to stop communicating with the third client device R3, which was using the third communication channel C3. .. The wireless power transmitter can now resume communication with the second client device R2 using the third communication channel C3, aiming the antenna group at the second client device R2. This process can continue until the amount of powered client devices changes.

[0277] FIG. 58 is FIG. 5800 of an exemplary potential interaction between a wireless power receiver and a wireless power transmitter, according to some embodiments. FIG. 5800 can describe a process relating to how TDM power transfer (software module) can operate in a wireless power transmitter. In particular, the process _{can start at point t 0} , where the wireless power device (D1) can be within reach of the wireless power transmitter, and TDM power transfer can be performed on the antenna group (GA). The wireless power transmitter can be instructed to assign power to D1.

[0278] If D1 is moved from the initial position, at time t _1, TDM power transmission, the wireless power transmitter, to change the number of antennas from the original group, so that the antenna groups (GB1) to power the D1 Can be instructed to assign to. If another wireless power device (D2) arrives within the reach of the wireless power transmitter at the same time, TDM power transfer allocates the wireless power transmitter to power another antenna group (GB2) to D2. Can be ordered. Here, the wireless power transmitter can power the two wireless power receivers.

In [0279] the time t _3, if both the D1 and D2 are moved from its position, TDM power transmission, the wireless power transmitter, to change the number of antennas from the original group, an antenna group (GB1) D1 Can be assigned to power and another antenna group (GC2) can be instructed to power D2. If two more wireless power devices (D3 and D4) arrive within the reach of the wireless power transmitter, TDM power transfer will D3 the wireless power transmitter with two additional antenna groups (GC3 and GC4). And D4 can be instructed to be assigned to power. Here, the wireless power transmitter can power the four devices and may not have any more transmitting antennas available for additional wireless power receivers.

In [0280] the time t _3, further wireless power receiver (D5) is coming within range of a wireless power transmitter, comprising further available for dedicated to a new group to power the D5 In the absence of an antenna, TDM power transfer can utilize antenna sharing techniques to ensure that all devices are receiving power. For example, TDM power transfer can switch antenna groups from one device to another at regular time intervals. If other changes in position does not occur, for example, from time t ₄ to t _9, continued TDM power transmission from the wireless power receiver that is transmitted the most time power is transmitted smallest time You can keep switching groups to wireless power receivers.

[0281] FIG. 59 shows a diagram 5900 of exemplary potential interactions of wireless power receivers and wireless power transmitters that can be part of a wireless power transfer system architecture. Diagram 5900 can provide an example of a wireless power receiver served by a wireless power transmitter. According to some embodiments, additional wireless power receivers can be served when they are within reach of the wireless power transmitter.

[0282] According to another embodiment, the plurality of wireless power transmitters can power one or more receivers together. At time t _0, there is a case where the wireless power device (D1) comes within range of a wireless power transmitter. The processor can instruct the wireless power transmitter to assign an antenna group (GA) of all transmitter antennas to power client device D1.

In [0283] the time t _1, the system includes an antenna group for even begin to power the client device D2, Therefore, the transmitter of the previous antenna groups G _A, continues to be powered, D1 G _B1, and new and replaced with two new antenna groups is a group G _B2 for the device D2 to be powered. Since there are two groups, each gets half of the entire transmitter antenna array.

[0284] At time t _2, it starts receiving power two devices D3 and D4 further, transmitter previous two antenna groups G _B1 and G _B2, client devices that are currently powered (Dl Replace with four antenna groups, one for each D2 D3 D4), ie G _c1 G _c2 G _c3 G _c4.

In [0285] the time t _3, configured as the fifth client device D5 receives power. On the other hand, the maximum permissible simultaneous antenna group is 4. Therefore, in order to power five devices, time division multiplexing must be used to simultaneously power four devices using four antenna groups, one of the five devices. , No power is supplied during each subsequent time interval t _n. Thus, at time _{t 3,} up to four antenna groups _G C1 _G C2 _G C3 _{G C4} each client device D5, D2, D3, the power supplied to D4. At time _{t 4,} the power to D2 is stopped, power to D1 is resumed, D3, D4, D5 continues to receive power. The cycle pattern continues indefinitely until the device is charged.

6. Power transfer management
[0286] FIG. 60 is a flow diagram 6000 that comprehensively illustrates an exemplary method for transmitting wireless power to a device. The steps of this exemplary method are incorporated into a computer-readable medium containing computer-readable code, whereby the steps are performed when the computer-readable code is executed by a computing device. In some embodiments, several steps of the method can be combined, performed simultaneously, performed in a different order, or omitted without departing from the purpose of the method. be able to.

[0287] In Figure 60, the process begins when the client device initiates an application in response to a request from the user (6067). In some embodiments, the client device detects the receiver to which it is attached and reads from the receiver the identifier associated with the receiver. In other embodiments, the receiver is inherent in the client device, and thus the client device already includes an identifier associated with the receiver. In yet another embodiment, the client device broadcasts or otherwise advertises the identifier associated with the receiver to other devices within range.

Next, the client device is an intranet, local area network (LAN), virtual private network (VPN), wireless area network (WAN) Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® low energy, Wi-Fi, Communicate with system management services through appropriate network connections, including ZigBee® (6069). In some embodiments, the client device communicates a certificate associated with the user of the client device, a receiver identifier associated with the client device, and the like. The system management service then authenticates the certificate associated with the client device (6071). In some embodiments, the user is instructed to register if the certificate cannot be authenticated. In another embodiment, the system management service denies access to the user if authentication fails.

The client device then detects the broadcast from the transmitter and reads the identifier associated with the transmitter (6073). In some embodiments, the transmitter broadcasts its presence and its associated identifier using Bluetooth®, Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE), Wi-Fi, and the like. .. The identifier associated with the transmitter can include the MAC address, network address, serial number, etc. of the transmitter. The client device displays the transmitter representation to the mobile device user via the GUI (6075). In some embodiments, the GUI produces a transmitter representation that allows the mobile device user to request power transmission from the transmitter to the client device. In another embodiment, the GUI displays additional information such as, for example, the distance from the transmitter to the client device, the cost associated with receiving power from the transmitter, and the like.

The client device then receives a command (6077) from the mobile device user to power the client device. The client device sends a request for wireless power delivery to the system management service (6079). In some embodiments, the request sent by the client device is a certificate associated with the client device (eg, a user account certificate), an identifier associated with one or more nearby transmitters, to the client device. Includes associated identifiers, identifiers associated with receivers associated with client devices (if not integrated with the device), billing instructions, etc.

The system management service then authenticates the client device, verifies the billing configuration, and verifies whether the client device is authorized to receive wireless power (6081). In some embodiments, the system management service combines the certificate contained within the request (eg, the user account certificate) and the identifier associated with the client device with the data stored in the database within the cloud service provider. Authenticate client devices by comparing. In another embodiment, the system management service further verifies that the user's billing configuration is valid. The system management service then determines whether the client device is authorized to receive power (6083). In some embodiments, the process terminates if the client device is not authorized. In other embodiments, the process is another process that allows the mobile device user to authorize the client device by further funding the account, request authorization from a third party, and so on. Continue.

[0292] The system management service communicates with the transmitter and orders the transmitter to power the receiver associated with the client device (6085). In some embodiments, the system management service is an intranet, local area network (LAN), virtual private network (VPN), wireless area network (WAN), Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® low energy, Wi. -Communicate with the transmitter using an appropriate network connection, including Fi, ZigBee®, etc. In other embodiments, the command includes any number of parameters appropriate to perform the desired charging method, including the desired power output, charging time amount, transmission power amount, and the like. In some embodiments, the receiver is integrated with the client device. In another embodiment, the receiver is a wireless receiver that is coupled and telecommunications with one or more client devices.

[0293] The transmitter establishes communication with the receiver and locates the receiver in 3D space (6087). The transmitter then uses its own antenna to form an energy pocket in the receiver (6089). The receiver then receives RF energy from the pocket formed by the transmitter and powers the client device (6091).

[0294] FIG. 61 is a flow diagram 6100 that comprehensively illustrates an exemplary method for monitoring wireless power transmitted to a device. The steps of this exemplary method are embodied in a computer-readable medium containing the computer-readable code so that the steps are performed when the computer-readable code is executed by the computing device. In some embodiments, certain steps of the method can be combined, performed simultaneously, performed in a different order, or omitted without departing from the object of the invention. Can be done.

[0295] In FIG. 61, the process begins with the transmitter reading power and energy data from the receiver (6151). In some embodiments, the receiver is integrated with the client device. In another embodiment, the receiver is a wireless receiver that is coupled and telecommunications with one or more client devices. In some embodiments, the data includes the rate of power delivered from the wireless power transmitter to the receiver, the total energy transferred from the wireless power transmitter to the receiver, the current battery power level of the client device, and the like. ..

[0296] The transmitter then communicates with the system management service and notifies the system management service that it is charging the client device (6153). In some embodiments, the transmitter further reports the energy / power transmitted to meet the charging requirements for the client device, the identifier of the receiver, and the like.

The system management service then charges the mobile device user for the energy transmitted from the transmitter to the client device, if requested (6155). The system management service then communicates the account information to the client device (6157). In some embodiments, the account information is associated with billing and other information related to the current charging session, information from a previous charging session, account balance information, and reception of wireless power during the current charging session. Includes charges, power transmission speed from transmitter, etc.

The GUI displayed by the client device indicates that the client device is powered (6159). In some embodiments, the GUI displays the account balance information, account information, etc. described above.

[0299] The wireless power transmitter, receiver, and / or one or more of the system management services then communicate usage and status information to the information distribution service (6161). In some embodiments, usage and status information is used to perform analyzes on customer behavior, demographics, quality of service, and so on. In some embodiments, the information distribution service is hosted in a remote cloud. In other embodiments, the information distribution service is hosted on a local network.

[0300] For example, a user with a smartphone walks into a coffee shop. The smartphone detects the wireless power transmitter operated by the coffee shop and reads out the transmitter ID. The user then notices that the smartphone is low power and proceeds to instruct the mobile app to request local wireless power. Users can also configure wireless power system management to do this automatically whenever and / or wherever wireless power is available. Next, the smartphone communicates its own ID, its own receiver ID, and the transmitter ID to the system management service. The system management service reviews its system database to find smartphones or its own receivers and transmitters. The system management service then communicates with the transmitter and commands the transmitter to power the user's smartphone receiver. The transmitter then communicates with the receiver to locate the receiver and uses pocket forming techniques to transmit wireless energy to the receiver. The receiver proceeds to use this energy to power the smartphone.

[0301] In another example, a user with a wearable device with a built-in wireless power receiver visits a friend's house, where the house is equipped with a wireless power transmitter. The wearable device detects this home wireless power transmitter, reads the transmitter ID, and the homeowner's transmitter configures the system management service to automatically power any wireless power receiver. It is done. The wearable device receiver communicates its ID and transmitter ID to the system management service, which then reviews its system database and wearable device, its receiver, and transmitter. Find out. The system management service then communicates with the transmitter and commands the transmitter to power the wearable device receiver. The transmitter then communicates with the receiver to determine the location of the receiver and uses adaptive 3D pocket forming techniques to transmit wireless energy to the receiver. The receiver then uses this energy to power the wearable device.

7. Power level measurement and reporting
[0302] FIG. 62 is a flowchart of Method 6200 for monitoring battery performance in a wireless power transfer system according to an embodiment. In some exemplary embodiments, the wireless power transfer system can determine the current or actual speed at which the battery of the electronic device is charging and compare that value to the predicted reference speed. If the current speed is significantly lower than the predicted reference speed, the battery or associated charging circuit in the electronic device may be malfunctioning, resulting in significantly lower charging efficiency or performance.

[0303] When a wireless power transmission system detects this error condition, the system may alert the system operator or the user of the client device, or any other appropriate party, thereby correcting the problem. The electronic device battery charging system no longer wastes power when charging, or stops charging for longer than necessary.

[0304] In an alternative embodiment, the wireless power transfer system monitors the charging rate of the client device since the device first serviced the system and uses this as a reference to the current current for the device. If compared to the charging speed, which causes the current charging speed for the device to be less than the reference speed based on the initial charging speed, then the system is causing some malfunction in the device and it takes an excessively long time to charge. An alert is generated indicating that you are wasting power when it is being charged or charged.

[0305] In some exemplary embodiments, the method of monitoring battery performance (6281) can begin at step 6263, where the operator or user installs and operates a wireless power transfer system. .. Then, in step 6265, the client device can be paired with a wireless power receiver in the system. Pairing can occur when the client electronic device detects that the power receiver is within the appropriate proximity range for the appropriate amount of time. You can then proceed to check the internal database to determine if the power receiver is already paired with another electronic device. If the power receiver is not already paired with another device, the client electronic device can associate its ID with the power receiver's ID and update the internal database. The electronic device can then send a copy of the updated database record to the power transmitter. In this way, the device is ready to start wireless charging.

[0306] At step 6267, the wireless power transmitter can continuously monitor the battery level of the client device and, at step 6269, determine if the battery needs to be charged. In another embodiment, the wireless power transmitter can charge the client device according to a predetermined schedule. The wireless power transfer system can be charged automatically whenever it is time to charge the battery of the client device, or if the battery level is below full charge and the battery needs to be charged, or , The system can automatically charge the battery in response to some other condition or situation that can be incorporated into the system or configured by an operator or user or the like.

[0307] If the wireless power transmitter determines that the client device needs to be charged, it can initiate the transmission of power to the wireless power receiver connected to the client device in step 6271. To do this, the wireless power transmitter continuously communicates with the wireless power receiver in real time.

[0308] In step 6273, during the charging period, the receiver constantly transmits the charged power value to the wireless power transmitter. Further, the client device can constantly transmit the battery level value to the wireless power transmitter in step 6275.

[0309] In step 6277, the wireless power transmitter can calculate the charging rate of the client device using the values received in steps 6273 and 6275. In some embodiments, the wireless power transmitter monitors its own real-time clock circuit or the like to measure the current real-time time or clock time in order to calculate the charging speed of the client device battery.

[0310] Next, in step 6279, the wireless power transmitter can determine whether the charging speed of the client device is within the permissible range. In some exemplary embodiments, the wireless power transmitter can look up the estimated charging speed for a particular client device in a reference table, and the device's unique identity or category is pre-existing to the system. , Informed by the operator or user, or automatically notified from the client device to the wireless power transmitter or other system computer of the wireless power transfer system by client device communication in the category. The reference table is located in the transmitter memory, in the local database, or downloaded or communicated to the transmitter from a remote management or information service on a remote server.

[0311] In some embodiments, the expected reference charging rate for a particular client device is already stored in transmitter memory. Also, the speed of each category or model of client device that the transmitter is expected to charge is also stored in memory. These speeds may already be stored in the transmitter's memory when the transmitter is manufactured, or updated for all types, categories, or models of client devices that the wireless power transmission system is expected to charge. It may have been uploaded or communicated to the transmitter from another system computer, such as a system management server, that includes the speed.

[0312] If the wireless power transmitter detects that the actual charging performance of the device is below the expected charging performance, in step 6281 the transmitter will contact the system operator or user of the client device with the battery or charging circuit or client. Warning that other of the devices are malfunctioning, may be losing power, are taking too long to charge, and need to be investigated, repaired or replaced can do. In some embodiments, the wireless power transmitter can also determine the root cause of system malfunction when the battery of the client device is not causing low charging speed or power loss.

[0313] In some embodiments, the wireless power transmitter communicates this information through automatic database replication over the system network between the transmitter and other system computers, or through other suitable means of communication. Send a message. In addition, the operator or user receives an alert, configures the wireless system to no longer wirelessly charge the client device, and then responds by removing the client device from service, thereby investigating this client device. , Can be repaired or replaced or other appropriate solution can be taken.

[0314] If the wireless power transmitter determines that no evidence of system or component failure is found in the data being analyzed, the wireless power transmitter continues to charge the client device and in step 6283, of the client device. You can continue to check if the battery level is fully charged. If the client device battery is not fully charged, the wireless power transmitter can continue to transmit wireless power to the wireless power receiver connected to the client device to keep the client device charged. At step 6285, the wireless power transmitter can stop charging the device and the process can be terminated if the battery of the client device is already fully charged or it is time to stop charging the device.

[0315] FIG. 63 is a sequence diagram 6300 of a method for monitoring battery performance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Sequence diagram 6300 includes a client device 6352, a system management computer 6373, a wireless power transmitter 6301, a wireless power receiver 6320, and a user or operator 6375.

The system management computer first transmits the predicted charging speed 6355 of the client device 6352 to the wireless power transmitter 6301. The client device 6352 then transmits information 6357 regarding the battery level of the client device 6373. After that, the wireless power transmitter 6301 starts distributing wireless power to the wireless power receiver 6320 connected to the client device 6352 (6359). Next, the wireless power receiver constantly transmits the measured value 6361 of the amount of power delivered to the client device 6352. The client device 6352 then transmits the latest battery level 6363 to the wireless power transmitter 6301. Using the measured electric energy 6361 delivered to the client device 6352 and the latest battery level 6363, the wireless power transmitter 6301 calculates the charging rate of the client device 6352. If the charging rate of the client device 6352 is below the threshold, the wireless power transmitter sends an alert to the user or operator 6375 (6365). The user or operator 6375 then takes action to correct the error (6637).

[0317] For example, a family has a wireless power transfer system installed at home. A family member configures the system to wirelessly power and charge smartphones. Smartphones have been in use for several years. The system automatically charges the smartphone whenever the smartphone is within the power range of the system and the battery level of the smartphone is low enough to justify charging. The family has installed software downloaded from the public app store, which is a systems management app for wireless power transfer systems, on their smartphones. This application automatically communicates the battery level value of the smartphone to the system. After charging the smartphone, the system observes that it took three times as long as it should have taken to fully charge the smartphone. The system then communicates a warning of this problem to the family system owner by sending a text message to the owner with the smartphone name and a brief description of the problem. The owner then purchases a replacement smartphone.

[0318] In another example, a user purchases a wearable product that works with the user's arm. The product includes a wireless power receiver. The wireless power transmitter is in the user's bedroom, and every night the user wears a wearable product on the user's arm and goes to bed. The wireless power transfer system then automatically removes the batteries in the wearable by transmitting power from a transmitter in the bedroom some distance from the power receiver to the power receiver in the wearable on the user's arm. Charge. Every night, the wearable battery charges the backup.

[0319] Starting from the very beginning when the transmitter charged the wearable client device, the transmitter calculated the charging speed of the wearable battery. Wireless power transfer systems do not have reference information on battery charging speeds for this particular wearable product.

[0320] More than a year later, wireless power transfer systems detect that the amount of time it takes to charge a wearable battery is now longer than when the user started wirelessly charging the wearable device with the system. .. The system then alerts the user by sending an email containing a message that the user's wearable is now taking longer to charge. The user then replaces the wearable product with the latest model.

8. Safe power transfer
[0321] FIG. 64 shows a flow chart of method 6400 that prohibits a client device from receiving power from a wireless power transfer system based on a health safety prohibited situation. The disclosed method can operate in one or more components of a wireless power transfer system. Wireless power transmission systems include one or more system computers, GUI system management software running on client devices, one or more remote information service servers, and one or more system management servers. include. A system computer can refer to one of the computers in a wireless power transfer system and is part of a communication network between all the computers in the wireless power transfer system. The system computer can communicate with any other system computer through the network, such as a wireless power transmitter, wireless power receiver, client device, system management service server, and / or any other computing device. be able to. Examples of client devices can include smartphones, tablets and music players, among others.

[0322] The remote information service server can be combined with a system database that can be replicated or distributed across all network computers operating in a wireless power transfer system. The distributed system database, along with database distributed management software running within all network computers, can enable instant communication in wireless power transfer systems. A network computer can refer to any system computer, or an active remote information server that is online and has a connection to the network of a particular wireless power transfer system.

[0323] The process begins at step 6469 when the wireless power transfer system (WPTS) is started and a system checkup is performed to ensure that all communication channels are functioning properly. Can be done. Then, in step 6471, the user can perform this step if the step of downloading and installing the system management software app (GUI App) on the client device for WPTS has not yet been performed. This application is a public software app store or digital application such as iTunes (registered trademark) of Apple (registered trademark), Play Store (registered trademark) of Google (registered trademark), and App store (registered trademark) of Amazon (registered trademark). It is available on the distribution platform and can be downloaded and installed from here. In other embodiments, the user can browse a web page hosted by a computer or server where the user can direct the WPTS or control or configure the WPTS. The application or web page is displayed and described on a web page served by an industry standard checkmark control, or the view screen of a client device, or a computer that manages a wireless power transmission system, but not limited to health and safety operations. It can have a user interface that includes any other user interface controls for specifying or controlling parameters.

[0324] Following the process, in determination 6473, the GUI application verifies whether any prohibitions exist for the power transfer enabled in WPTS. If the prohibition for power transfer is enabled, continue to step 6485 below, otherwise, if the prohibition for power transmission is not yet enabled, in determination 6475, the GUI is the user. Can display a message to the user asking if they want to enable the health safety operating parameters for wireless power transfer. If the user does not accept to enable the prohibition, at step 6491, WPTS enables power delivery without the prohibition and the process ends. If in determination 508 the user accepts to enable the prohibition, in step 6477 the GUI application specifies the situation in which the wireless power should not be transmitted to the device when used by the user. A checklist that can be displayed to the user. Next, in step 6479, the user specifies a prohibited situation that can include, but is not limited to, the following criteria:

[0325] 1) When the client device is currently on the move, indicating that the user is wearing the device or holding or wearing the device. The movement or movement of the client device can refer to the physical 3D movement of the client device with respect to the transmitter transmitting power to the device or with respect to the spatial position of the transmitter, thereby moving while in motion. , The client device may change its physical distance from the transmitter or its angle from the transmitter's antenna array.

[0326] 2) When the client device is physically oriented in any position that indicates it is currently in use. For example, if the device is a mobile phone that is currently oriented vertically.

[0327] 3) When the client device detects that it is in the vicinity of the user, such as when the device is currently held facing the user's face.

[0328] 4) When the client device is currently making a phone call.

[0329] 5) The user is currently touching, tapping, swiping, pinching, turning, or otherwise performing finger gestures on the client device, or any method. When interacting with the client device in.

[0330] 6) If the client device is currently connected to a headset or any other external device.

[0331] Then, in step 6487, after the user specifies the banned situation or criteria, the banned situation policy is applied across all system computers. Then, in step 6483, WPTS updates the client device record in its distributed database. WPTS reads and verifies the forbidden situation associated with the client device. Then, in step 6485, WPTS reads and verifies the forbidden situation associated with the client device. Then, in step 6487, if there is a banned situation, in step 6489, power delivery is disabled, or in determination 6487, if there is no banned situation, then in step 6489, power delivery Be enabled. The process ends.

[0332] The GUI application running on the client device continuously monitors the client device to see if the current operation of the client device matches any of the health-safety prohibited situations. Whether or not it can be detected. Monitoring of a client device is limited, but by using an accelerometer or gyroscope inside the client device, or a sensor that indicates if the device is help to face. Reading the measurement hardware within the device for the current speed, yaw, pitch or roll, or orientation of the device, or detecting any other aspect of the device indicating whether a prohibited situation exists. Can be included.

[0333] A health safety determination as to whether a client device is currently prohibited from receiving power from the transmission system is made in a GUI in a data record that describes the control and configuration of the client device. It can be memorized by app. The record can be part of a distributed database of WPTS, a copy of which resides in the memory of the client device. The GUI application and other computers in the wireless power transfer system then automatically distribute the updated records throughout the system to keep all copies of the database identical across the WPTS.

An exemplary embodiment describes how to make a determination to transmit power to a client device. Within the system database, the paired client device record is associated with a wireless power receiver record attached to or embedded within the client device.

[0335] When the user manually commands the client device to be charged (from the power received by the wireless power receiver) using any user interface (GUI or web page) of WPTS, or the user. If a record of the wireless power receiver is configured to automatically charge the client device by time, name, physical location, etc., or otherwise using the user interface, the wireless power. The receiver record is updated by this wireless power receiver because the wireless power transmitter with current control of the wireless power receiver database record is the wireless power transmitter closest to the wireless power receiver. Indicates that the wireless power transmitter should now close its output switch to allow it to output power to the client device. The record of the wireless power receiver is also distributed by the wireless power transmitter throughout the system for reading by other wireless power transmitters.

[0336] When the wireless power transmitter controlling the wireless power receiver determines that power should be transmitted to the wireless power receiver, it is then associated with or to the wireless power receiver. It inspects the records of the paired client device and transmits power to the wireless power receiver only if the health and safety determination does not currently prohibit the transmission of power to the client device. If power transfer is not prohibited, the power transmitter can take the following actions:

[0337] A) In order to keep the transmission antenna aimed at the receiver, real-time communication with the receiver is started so as to obtain continuous feedback of the received power amount.

[0338] B) Start power transmission to the receiver.

[0339] C) Instruct the receiver to close the receiver's electrical relay switch for connecting to and transmitting electrical energy to the client device.

[0340] If the user changes the safety prohibition, the wireless power transmitter redetermines whether the wireless power receiver should receive power.

F. Wireless power transfer using selective range 1. Strengthening interference
[0341] FIG. 6A is an exemplary system that implements the wireless power transfer principle that can be implemented during an exemplary pocket forming process. The transmitter 601 including a plurality of antennas in the antenna array can adjust the phase and amplitude among the many attributes of the power transmission wave 607 transmitted from each antenna of the transmitter 601. In the absence of phase or amplitude adjustment, the power transfer wave 607 can be transmitted from each of the antennas. In this case, the transmitted wave will reach different positions in different phases due to different distances from each antenna element of the transmitter to the receivers located at each position.

The receiver can receive a plurality of signals 607a from the plurality of antenna elements, and the composite of these signals can be essentially zero if the signals are combined to weaken each other. The antenna elements of the transmitter can transmit exactly the same power transmission signals (ie, including power transmission waves with the same characteristics), but each of the power transmission signals 607a is a receiver 180 ° offset from each other. Can be reached, and thus these power transmission signals can "cancele" each other. Signals that are offset from each other in this way can be referred to as "weakening interference." In contrast, in the case of so-called "intensifying interference", as shown in FIG. 6B, the signals 607b reach the receiver exactly "in phase" with each other, thus increasing the amplitude of the signal. In the explanatory example of FIG. 6A, the phases of the transmitted signals are the same in transmission and are weakened together in the receiver. On the other hand, in FIG. 6B, the phase of the transmitted signal is adjusted in transmission so that it reaches the receiver in a phase-aligned state and is matched to strengthen each other. In this explanatory example, there will be an energy pocket located around the receiver in FIG. 6B and a transmit null located around the receiver in FIG. 6A.

[0343] FIG. 7 shows wireless power transfer using a selective range 700 in which the transmitter 702 can generate pocket formations for multiple receivers associated with the electrical device 701. Transmitter 702 can generate pocket formation through wireless power transfer using selective range 700, which selective range is one or more wireless charging radii 704 and one at a particular physical location 706. The above null radius can be included. Within the wireless charging range 704, multiple electronic devices 701 can be charged or powered. This can result in several energy spots that can be used to power the electronic device 701 and allow constraints for charging the electronic device. As an example, the constraint can include operating a particular electronic device at a particular or limited spot within the wireless charging radius 704. In addition, safety constraints can be enforced by using wireless power transfer with a selective range of 700, such safety constraints can avoid energy pockets across areas or zones where energy needs to be avoided. Such areas can include devices that are sensitive to energy pockets and / or areas that contain people who do not want energy pockets on and / or in the vicinity of themselves. In embodiments such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the transmitter 702 may include an antenna element found in a different plane than the receiver associated with the electrical device 701 in the served area. For example, the receiver of electrical device 701 can be in a room where transmitter 702 is mounted on the ceiling. The selective range for establishing an energy pocket using power transfer waves can be represented as concentric circles by placing the antenna array of transmitter 702 on the ceiling or other high position, where transmitter 702 has energy. It can radiate power transfer waves that produce a "cone" in the pocket. In some embodiments, the transmitter 701 controls the radius of each charging radius 704, thereby establishing a service area spacing to create an energy pocket pointed down to an area in a lower plane. do. This allows the width of the cone to be adjusted through proper selection of antenna phase and amplitude.

[0344] FIG. 8 shows wireless power transfer using a selective range 800 in which transmitter 802 can generate pocket formations for multiple receivers 806. Transmitter 802 can generate pocket formation through wireless power transfer using selective range 800, which selective range can include one or more wireless charging spots 804. At the wireless charging spot 804, multiple electronic devices can be charged or powered. Energy pockets can be created across multiple receivers 806, regardless of the obstacles 804 surrounding them. Energy pockets can be created by creating intensifying interference within the wireless charging spot 804 according to the principles described herein. The location of the energy pocket can be done by tracking the receiver 806 and, among other things, by using a wide range of communication systems such as Bluetooth® technology, infrared communication, Wi-Fi, FM radio, etc. It can be done by making it possible.

G. An exemplary system embodiment using a heat map
[0345] FIGS. 9A and 9B show diagrams of architectures 900A, 900B for wireless charging a client computing platform, according to an exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments, the user may be in a room and may hold an electronic device (eg, a smartphone, tablet) in his hand. In some embodiments, the electronic device may be on furniture in a room. The electronic device can include receivers 920A, 920B as separate adapters embedded in or connected to the electronic device. The receivers 920A, 920B can include all the components shown in FIG. Transmitters 902A, 902B may hang on one of the walls of the room immediately behind the user. Transmitters 902A, 902B can also include all the components shown in FIG.

[0346] RF waves are not easily aligned linearly with respect to receivers 920A, 920B when the user may appear to block the path between receivers 920A, 920B and transmitters 902A, 902B. In some cases. However, the short signals generated from the receivers 920A, 920B can be omnidirectional with respect to the type of antenna element used, and these signals are on the walls 944A, 944B until they reach the transmitters 902A, 902B. Can bounce over. The hotspots 944A and 944B can be any item in the room that reflects the RF signal wave. For example, a large metal clock on the wall can be used to reflect RF waves to the user's mobile phone.

[0347] The microcontroller in the transmitter adjusts the signal transmitted from each antenna based on the signal received from the receiver. The adjustment can include forming a conjugate of the signal phase received from the receiver and further adjusting the transmitting antenna phase, taking into account the incorporated phase of the antenna element. The antenna elements can be simultaneously controlled to steer the energy in a given direction. Transmitters 902A, 902B can scan the room for hotspots 944A, 944B. Once calibrated, transmitters 902A, 902B can focus on RF waves in channels that follow a path that can be the most effective path. The RF signals 942A, 942B can then form an energy pocket in the first electronic device and another energy pocket in the second electronic device while avoiding obstacles such as users and furniture. When scanning the service area, i.e. the room in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the transmitter can use a variety of methods. As a descriptive example, however, without limiting the possible methods that can be used, the transmitter detects the phase and amplitude of the signal coming from the receiver and uses them to, for example, conjugate these. By calculating and applying these at the time of transmission, a set of transmission phase and magnitude can be formed. As another explanatory example, the transmitter is formed by each combination by applying all possible phases of the transmitting antenna one at a time and observing the signal from the receiver in subsequent transmissions. The strength of the energy pocket can be detected. The transmitter then repeats this calibration from time to time. It should be noted that the transmitter does not have to search for all possible phases, but can search within a set of phases that are more likely to generate strong energy pockets based on previous calibration values. In yet another explanatory example, the transmitter can use preset values of transmission phase for the antenna to form energy pockets directed to different locations in the room. The transmitter can scan the physical space in the room from top to bottom and from left to right, for example by using preset phase values for the antenna in subsequent transmissions. The transmitter then detects the phase value that results in the strongest energy pocket around the receiver by observing the signal from the receiver. There are other possible methods without departing from the spirit of the embodiments described herein. Whichever method is used, the scan result is a heatmap of the room, from which the transmitter uses the best phase and for the transmitting antenna to maximize the energy pocket around the receiver. Identify hotspots that indicate magnitude values.

[0348] Transmitters 902A, 902B can locate receivers 920A, 920B using a Bluetooth® connection, using different non-overlapping parts of the RF band, different receivers 920A, 920B. The RF wave can be channel-set. In some embodiments, transmitters 902A, 902B can scan the room to determine the location of receivers 920A, 920B, forming energy pockets that are orthogonal to each other with non-overlapping RF transmit bands. .. Directing energy to the receiver using multiple energy pockets can be inherently safer than some alternative power transfer methods. This is because neither single transmission is very strong, while the total power transfer signal received at the receiver is strong.

H. An exemplary system embodiment
[0349] FIG. 10A shows wireless power transfer using multiple pocket formation 1000A which can include one transmitter 1002A and at least two or more receivers 1020A. The receiver 1020A can communicate with the transmitter 1002A, which will be further described in FIG. Once the transmitter 1002A has identified and located the receiver 1020A, the channel or path can be established by knowing the gain and phase coming from the receiver 1020A. Transmitter 1002A can initiate transmission of a controlled RF wave 1042A that can converge in three-dimensional space by using the minimum values of the two antenna elements. These RF waves 1042A can be generated using an external power source and a local oscillator chip using suitable piezoelectric materials. The RF wave 1042A can be controlled by the RFIC, which can serve as an input for the antenna elements to form an intensifying interference pattern (pocket formation) in the phase and / or relative of the RF signal. Can include a dedicated chip for adjusting the size. The pocket formation can use interference to change the directivity of the antenna element, where the strengthening interference produces energy pocket 1060A and the weakening interference produces null. The receiver 1020A was then generated by pocket formation to charge or power electronic devices such as laptop computer 1062A and smartphone 1052A, thereby efficiently providing wireless power transfer. The energy pocket 1060A can be used.

Multiple pocket formation 1000A can be achieved by calculating the phase and gain from each antenna of transmitter 1002A to each receiver 1020A. Since the antenna element from the transmitter 1002A can generate a plurality of paths from the receiver 1020A to the antenna element, the calculation can be performed independently.

I. An exemplary system embodiment
[0351] FIG. 10B is an exemplary description of the multiple adaptive pocket formation 1000B. In this embodiment, the user may be in a room and may hold an electronic device in his hand. In this case, the electronic device can be a tablet 1064B. In addition, the smartphone 1052B can be on furniture in the room. The tablet 1064B and smartphone 1052B can include a receiver as a separate adapter embedded in each electronic device or connected to the tablet 1064B and smartphone 1052B. The receiver can include all the components shown in FIG. Transmitter 1002B may hang on one of the walls of the room immediately behind the user. Transmitter 1002B can also include all the components shown in FIG. The RF wave 1042B may not be easily aimed in line of sight to each receiver when the user may appear to block the path between the receiver and the transmitter 1002B. However, the short signals generated from the receiver can be omnidirectional with respect to the type of antenna element used, and these signals can bounce across the wall until the transmitter 1002B is found. Almost immediately, the microcontroller present in transmitter 1002B adjusts the gain and phase based on the received signal transmitted by each receiver, and power transmission waves are subtracted from each other, called "weakening interference". In contrast to interference, which combines together to attenuate the energy concentrated in that position, the power transmission waves combine together to form a convergence of the power transmission waves to enhance the energy concentrated in that position. The transmitted signal can be recalibrated by forming a conjugate of the signal phase received from the receiver and making further adjustments to the transmitting antenna phase taking into account the incorporated phase of the antenna element. Once calibrated, transmitter 1002B can focus on RF waves that follow the most efficient path. After that, the energy pocket 1060B can be formed in the tablet 1064B and another energy pocket 1060B can be formed in the smartphone 1052B, taking into consideration obstacles such as the user and furniture. The above characteristics are that wireless power transfer using multiple pocket formation 1000B can be inherently safe because transmission along each energy pocket is not very strong, and RF transmission is usually from living tissue. It can be advantageous in that it reflects and does not penetrate.

[0352] Once the transmitter 1002B has identified and located the receiver, the channel or path can be established by knowing the gain and phase coming from the receiver. Transmitter 1002B can initiate transmission of a controlled RF wave 1042B that can converge in three-dimensional space by using the minimum values of the two antenna elements. These RF waves 1042B can be generated with an external power source and a local oscillator chip using suitable piezoelectric materials. The RF wave 1042B can be controlled by an RFIC, which can serve as an input to form (pocket formation) interference patterns in which the antenna elements strengthen and weaken each other. And / or a dedicated chip for adjusting the relative size can be included. Pocket formation can utilize interference to change the directivity of the antenna element, where strengthening interference produces energy pockets and weakening interference produces nulls at specific physical locations. The receiver then charges or powers electronic devices such as laptop computers and smartphones, thereby providing energy pockets generated by pocket formation to efficiently provide wireless power transfer. It can be used.

Multiple pocket formation 1000B can be achieved by calculating the phase and gain from each antenna of the transmitter to each receiver. Since the antenna element from the transmitter can generate a plurality of routes from the receiver to the antenna element, the calculation can be performed independently.

An example of the calculation of at least two antenna elements can include determining the phase of the signal from the receiver and applying the conjugate of the reception parameter to the antenna element for transmission.

[0355] In some embodiments, two or more receivers can operate at different frequencies to avoid power loss during wireless power transfer. This can be achieved by including an array of multiple built-in antenna elements in transmitter 1002B. In one embodiment, each antenna in the array can transmit a single frequency. In other embodiments, some of the antennas in the array can be used to transmit at different frequencies. For example, 1/2 of the antennas in the array can operate at 2.4 GHz and the other 1/2 can operate at 5.8 GHz. In another example, one-third of the antennas in the array can operate at 900 MHz, another one-third can operate at 2.4 GHz, and the remaining antennas in the array can operate at 5.8 GHz. can do.

[0356] In another embodiment, each array of antenna elements can be virtually divided into one or more antenna elements during wireless power transfer, where each set of antenna elements in the array is. It can be transmitted at different frequencies. For example, the antenna element of the transmitter can transmit the power transfer signal at 2.4 GHz, while the corresponding antenna element of the receiver can be configured to receive the power transfer signal at 5.8 GHz. .. In this example, the processor of the transmitter may adjust the antenna elements of the transmitter to virtually or logically divide the antenna elements in the array into multiple patches that can be supplied independently. can. As a result, a quarter of the array of antenna elements can transmit at 5.8 GHz required by the receiver, while another set of antenna elements can transmit at 2.4 GHz. Therefore, by virtually dividing the array of antenna elements, the electronic device coupled to the receiver can continue to receive wireless power transfer. The above, for example, allows one set of antenna elements to transmit at about 2.4 GHz and the other antenna elements to transmit at 5.8 GHz, thus working with receivers operating at different frequencies. It can be advantageous due to the ability to tune multiple antenna elements in a given array when doing so. In this example, the array is divided into equal sets of antenna elements (eg, four antenna elements), but the array may be divided into different amounts of sets of antenna elements. In an alternative embodiment, each antenna element can be switched alternately between selected frequencies.

The efficiency of wireless power transfer and the amount of power that can be delivered (using pocket formation) can be a function of the total number of antenna elements 1006 used in a given receiver and transmitter system. For example, to deliver about 1 watt at about 15 feet, the receiver can include about 80 antenna elements, while the transmitter can include about 256 antenna elements. Another identical wireless power transfer system (about 1 watt at about 15 feet) can include a receiver with about 40 antenna elements and a transmitter with about 512 antenna elements. Reducing the number of antenna elements in the receiver in half requires doubling the number of antenna elements in the transmitter. In some embodiments, in a system-scale deployment, the number of transmitters is much smaller than that of the receiver, so due to cost, it is possible to have more antenna elements in the transmitter than in the receiver. It may be advantageous. On the other hand, as long as the transmitter 1002B has at least two antenna elements, the opposite can be achieved, for example, by arranging more antenna elements in the receiver than in the transmitter.

II. Transmitter-Transmitter system and method for wireless power transfer
[0358] The transmitter may be responsible for pocket formation, adaptive pocket formation and multiple pocket formation using the components described below. The transmitter can transmit wireless power transmission signals to the receiver in the form of any physical medium that can propagate through space and be converted into usable electrical energy, eg RF waves, It can include infrared, acoustic, electromagnetic fields and ultrasonic waves. Those skilled in the art should understand that the power transfer signal can be almost any radio signal having any frequency or wavelength. The transmitter is described only as an example with reference to RF transmission and is not limited in scope to RF transmission only.

[0359] The transmitter can be located in multiple locations such as desks, tables, floors, walls, surfaces, pedestals, or embedded structures. In some cases, the transmitter is located within a client computing platform that can be any computing device, including processors and software modules capable of performing the processes and tasks described herein. Can be done. Non-limiting examples of client computing platforms can include desktop computers, laptop computers, handheld computers, tablet computing platforms, notebooks, smartphones, gaming consoles and / or other computing platforms. In other embodiments, the client computing platform can be a wide variety of electronic computing devices. In such embodiments, each of the client computing platforms can have a separate operating system and / or physical components. The client computing platform may run the same operating system and / or the client computing platform may run different operating systems. Client computing platforms and devices can be made capable of running multiple operating systems. In addition, the box transmitter can include several configurations of printed circuit board (PCB) layers that can be directed to the X-axis, Y-axis or Z-axis, or any combination thereof.

[0360] It is understood that wireless charging techniques are not limited to RF wave transmission techniques and can include alternative or additional techniques for transmitting energy to a receiver that converts the transmitted energy into electric power. Should be. Non-limiting exemplary transmission techniques for energy that can be converted to power by the receiving device include ultrasonic, microwave, resonant and induced magnetic fields, laser light, infrared, or other forms of electromagnetic energy. be able to. In the case of ultrasonic waves, for example, one or more transducer elements can be arranged to form a transducer array, which transmits the ultrasonic waves to the receiving device, which receives the receiving device. Receives ultrasonic waves and converts them into power. In the case of a resonant magnetic field and an induced magnetic field, a magnetic field is generated in the transmitter coil and converted into power by the receiver coil.

A. Transmitter device components
[0361] FIG. 11 shows a diagram of the system 1100 architecture for wirelessly charging a client device, according to an exemplary embodiment. The system 1100 can include a transmitter 1101 and a receiver 1120, each of which can include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Transmitter 1101 ASIC includes one or more printed circuit boards (PCB) 1104, one or more antenna elements 1106, one or more radio frequency integrated circuits (RFIC) 1108, and one or more microcontrollers (MC). The 1110, the communication component 1112, and the power supply 1114 can be provided. The transmitter 1101 can be housed in a housing, which can allocate all the required components for the transmitter 1101. The components in transmitter 1101 can be manufactured using metamaterials, microprints of circuits, nanomaterials and / or any other material. It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the entire transmitter or receiver can be mounted on a single circuit board, and that one or more of the functional blocks can be mounted on separate circuit boards.

1. 1. Printed circuit board 1104
[0362] In some embodiments, transmitter 1101 may include multiple PCB 1104 layers, the plurality of PCB layers antenna elements 1106 and / or RFIC 1108 for providing greater control over pocket formation. Can be included to increase the response for the target receiver. The PCB 1104 mechanically supports and electrically connects the electronic components described herein using conductive tracks, pads and / or other features etched from a copper sheet laminated on a non-conductive substrate. can do. The PCB can be one-sided (one copper layer), two-sided (two copper layers) and / or multilayer. The plurality of PCB1104 layers can increase the range and amount of power that can be transferred by transmitter 1101. The PCB1104 layer can be connected to a single MC1110 and / or dedicated MC1110. Similarly, the RFIC 1108 can be connected to the antenna element 1106, as shown in the above embodiments.

[0363] In some embodiments, a box transmitter containing multiple PCB1104 layers internally can include an antenna element 1108 that provides greater control over pocket formation and responds to the target receiver. Can be increased. In addition, box transmitters can increase the range of wireless power transfer. Multiple PCB1104 layers have a range of power waves (eg, RF power waves, ultrasound) that can be wirelessly transferred and / or broadcast by transmitter 1101 due to the higher density of antenna elements 1106. The amount can be increased. The PCB1104 layer can be connected to a single microcontroller 1110 and / or dedicated microcontroller 1110 for each antenna element 1106. Similarly, the RFIC1108 can control the antenna element 1101 as shown in the above embodiment. Further, the box shape of the transmitter 1101 can increase the working ratio of wireless power transmission.

2. Antenna element
[0364] Antenna element 1106 can be directional and / or omnidirectional and can include planar antenna elements, patch antenna elements, dipole antenna elements and any other antenna suitable for wireless power transfer. .. Suitable antenna types can include, for example, patch antennas that can have a height of about 1/8 inch to about 6 inches and a width of about 1/8 inch to about 6 inches. The shape and orientation of the antenna element 1106 may vary depending on the desired characteristics of transmitter 1101, and the orientation may be flat on the X, Y and Z axes and vary in three-dimensional configuration. Orientation type and combination may be used. The material of the antenna element 1106 can include any suitable material capable of enabling RF signal transmission with high efficiency, good heat dissipation and the like. The amount of the antenna element 1106 can vary in relation to the desired range and power transfer capability of the transmitter 1101, and the more antenna elements 1106, the wider the range and the higher the power transfer capability.

[0365] Antenna element 1106 can include antenna types suitable for operating in frequency bands such as 900 MHz, 2.5 GHz or 5.8 GHz. This is because these frequency bands comply with Part 18 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Regulations (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical Equipment). The antenna element 1106 operates at independent frequencies and can enable multi-channel operation of pocket formation.

[0366] Further, the antenna element 1106 can have at least one polarization or polarization selection. Such polarization can include vertical polarization, horizontal polarization, circular polarization, left polarization, right polarization, or a combination of polarizations. The choice of polarization can vary depending on the characteristics of transmitter 1101. Further, the antenna element 1106 can be located on various surfaces of the transmitter 1101. Antenna element 1106 can operate in a single array, a pair of arrays, a quadruple array, and any other suitable configuration that can be designed according to the desired application.

[0367] In some embodiments, the antenna elements 1106 can be densely packed across the sides of the printed circuit board PCB 1104. The RFIC 1108 can be connected to a plurality of antenna elements 1106. A plurality of antenna elements 1106 can surround a single RFIC.

3. 3. Radio frequency integrated circuit
[0368] The RFIC 1108 receives the RF signal from the MC 1110 and can divide the RF signal into a plurality of outputs, each output being linked to an antenna element 1106. For example, each RFIC 1108 can be connected to four antenna elements 1106. In some embodiments, each RFIC 1108 can be connected to eight, 16 and / or multiple antenna elements 1106.

[0369] RFIC1104 can include multiple RF circuits that can include digital and / or analog components such as amplifiers, capacitors, oscillators, piezoelectric crystals. The RFIC 1104 can control features of the antenna element 1106, such as gain and / or phase for pocket formation, which can be managed through direction, power level, and the like. The phase and amplitude of pocket formation in each antenna element 1106 can be adjusted by the corresponding RFIC 1108 to produce the desired pocket formation and transmit null steering. Further, the RFIC1108 can be connected to the MC1110, which can utilize digital signal processing (DSP), ARM, PIC class microprocessors, central processing units, computers and the like. A smaller number of RFICs 1108 present in transmitter 1101 can accommodate desired features such as weaker control of multiple pocket formation, lower particle size levels, and lower cost embodiments. In some embodiments, the RFIC 1108 can be coupled to one or more MC 1110s, which can be included in an independent base station or in transmitter 1101.

[0370] In some embodiments of transmitter 1101, the phase and amplitude of each pocket formation in each antenna element 1106 may be adjusted by the corresponding RFIC 1108 to produce the desired pocket formation and transmit null steering. can. Selected RFICs 1108 coupled to each antenna element 1106 can reduce processing requirements, increase control over pocket formation, and for MC1110 multiple pocket formation with lower load and higher particle size. It can allow pocket formation and a higher response to a larger number of multiple pocket formations. In addition, the multi-pocket formation can charge a larger number of receivers, allowing for a better trajectory for such receivers.

[0371] The RFIC 1108 and antenna element 1106 can operate in any suitable configuration that can be designed according to the desired application. For example, transmitter 1101 can include antenna elements 1106 and RFIC 1108 in a flat configuration. A subset of 4, 8, 16, and / or any number of antenna elements 1106 can be connected to a single RFIC 1108. The RFIC 1108 can be incorporated directly behind each antenna element 1106, and such integration can reduce the loss due to the reduced distance between the components. In some embodiments, the rows or columns of antenna elements 1106 can be connected to a single MC1110. RFIC1108 connected to each row or column enables a lower cost transmitter 1101 that can generate pocket formation by changing the phase and gain between rows or columns. In some embodiments, the RFIC 1108 is capable of outputting 2 to 8 volts of power for the receiver 1120 to obtain.

[0372] In some embodiments, a cascade configuration of RFIC1108 can be implemented. The flat transmitter 1101 using the cascade configuration of the RFIC 1108 can provide better control over pocket formation and can increase the response to the target receiver 1106, due to the multiple redundancy of the RFIC 1108. , Higher reliability and accuracy can be achieved.

4. Microcontroller
[0373] MC1110 may include a processor running ARM and / or DSP. ARM is a family of general purpose microprocessors based on reduced instruction set computing (RISC). A DSP is a general purpose signal processing chip that provides mathematical manipulation of information signals, which can be modified or improved in some way, at a separate time, by processing a series of numbers or symbols and these signals. Can be characterized by the frequency of, and / or the representation of other distinct region signals. DSPs can measure, filter, and / or compress continuous real-world analog signals. The first step is an analog format by sampling the signal and then digitizing the signal using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) that can convert the analog signal into a stream of separate digital values. Can be a signal conversion from to digital format. The MC1110 can also run Linux and / or any other operating system. MC1110 can also connect to Wi-Fi to provide information through network 1140.

The MC1110 can control a wide range of features of the RFIC1108, such as time release of pocket formation, pocket formation direction, bounce angle, and power intensity. Further, the MC 1110 can control the formation of multiple pockets for multiple receivers or for a single receiver. The transmitter 1101 can make it possible to distinguish the distance of wireless power transmission. In addition, the MC 1110 can manage and control communication protocols and signals by controlling the communication component 1112. The MC 1110 can process the information received by the communication component 1112, which receives to track the receiver and focus the radio frequency signal 1142 (ie, the energy pocket) on the receiver. Signals can be sent and received to and from the machine. Other information can also be transmitted from receiver 1120 and to receiver 1120 over network 1140, and such information can include authentication protocols, among other things.

[0375] MC1110 can communicate with the communication component 1112 through a serial peripheral interface (SPI) and / or inter-integrated circuit (I ² C) protocol. SPI communication can be used, for example, in embedded systems, sensors and SD cards for a single master communication over a short distance. The device communicates in master / slave mode, in which the master device initiates a data frame. Multiple slave devices are enabled using individual slave selection lines. I 2 ^C is a multi-master, multi-slave, single-ended, serial computer bus used to attach the low-speed peripheral devices to a computer motherboard and embedded systems.

5. Communication component
[0376] Communication component 1112 includes, among others, Bluetooth® technology, infrared communication, Wi-Fi, FM radio, and these can be combined. The MC1110 can determine the optimal time and position for pocket formation, including the most effective trajectory to transmit pocket formation, in order to reduce losses due to obstacles. Such trajectories can include direct pocket formation, bounce, and pocket formation distance distinctions. In some embodiments, the communication component 1112 can communicate with a plurality of devices, the plurality of devices of which may include a receiver 1120, a client device, or another transmitter 1101.

6. Power supply 1101
[0377] Transmitter 1101 can be supplied by power supply 1114, which can include AC power or DC power. The voltage, power and current strength provided by power supply 1114 can vary depending on the power that needs to be transmitted. The conversion of power to radio signals can be managed by the MC1110 and performed by the RFIC1108. The RFIC1108 can utilize multiple methods and components to generate radio signals at a wide variety of frequencies, wavelengths, intensities and other features. As an exemplary use of a wide variety of methods and components for radio signal generation, oscillators and piezoelectric crystals can be used to generate and modify radio frequencies in different antenna elements 1106. In addition, a wide variety of filters can be used to smooth the signal, and amplifiers can be used to increase the power transmitted.

Transmitter 1101 can radiate pocket-forming RF power waves with power capacities ranging from a few watts to a predetermined number of watts required by a particular rechargeable electronic device. .. Each antenna can manage a particular power capacity. Such power capacities can be associated with applications.

7. housing
[0379] In addition to the housing, an independent base station can include MC 1110 and power supply 1114, so that several transmitters 1101 can be managed by a single base station and a single MC 1110. .. Such capabilities allow the transmitter 1101 to be placed in a wide variety of tactical locations such as ceilings, decorations, walls, and the like. The antenna elements 1106, RFIC1108, MC1110, communication components 1112 and power supply 1114 can be connected in multiple configurations and combinations, which can rely on the desired characteristics of transmitter 1101.

[0380] FIG. 23 shows a wireless power transfer system 2300 with a portable transmitter 2301 having a power plug capable of connecting the portable wireless transmitter to one or more power outlets, according to an exemplary embodiment. The portable wireless transmitter 2301 can include an antenna element having a flat configuration. The portable wireless transmitter 2301 can be connected to a power source through one or more power plugs 2370, such power plugs 2370 can comply with national and / or regional standards. The power plug 2370 may be intended to connect the portable wireless transmitter 2301 to one or more power outlets on the wall, floor, ceiling and / or electrical adapter.

[0381] In order to increase the portability of the portable wireless transmitter 2301, the power plug 2370 can be foldable, telescopic, ultra-compact and the like. Such features allow the size to be reduced for transport and pocketing. The portable wireless transmitter 2301 can be built into the housing 2306. The housing can provide additional protection against water, high temperatures, sand, bugs, shocks, vibrations, and other adverse conditions that can pose a threat to the integrity of the portable wireless transmitter 2301. Therefore, the housing 2306 can be made using a plurality of materials capable of providing the above characteristics.

[0382] FIG. 24 shows a wireless power transfer system 2400, according to an exemplary embodiment, comprising a transmitter 2401 in which multiple power plugs connect the portable wireless transmitter to a wide variety of power sources and / or electrical adapters. FIG. 24 shows a portable wireless transmitter 2401 showing various power plugs, such power plugs can include a USB adapter 2470b and a cigarette lighter plug 2470c. The USB adapter 2470b can be used to receive power from any device that has a USB port. These devices can include laptops, smart TVs, tablets and the like. The cigarette lighter plug 2470c can be used to receive power from any cigarette lighter socket, such as that used in automobiles. Further, the portable wireless transmitter 2401 can include a wide variety of power plugs 2470a, such power plugs 2470a can be varied depending on the end application.

[0383] FIG. 25 shows a wireless power transfer system 2500 in which the transmitter 2501 can include a button 2572 that can generate at least one energy pocket 2504 on the top surface at startup. A smartphone 2552 operatively coupled to a receiver (not shown), when placed on such a surface, can receive power wirelessly by utilizing the energy pocket 2504 described above. This configuration for wireless power transfer 2500 can be advantageous whenever the smartphone 2552 is unable to communicate its location to the transmitter 2501, for example when the smartphone 2552 is completely depowered. .. Communication can refer to information represented as data being transmitted from one computer to one or more computers or processors in a wireless power transfer system. The data takes the form of a series of bytes, where each byte is 8 binary bits and each binary bit is a number "0" or "1". Bits are electrically or electronically communicated from one computer to another by representing "0" and "1" as separate or different voltage or current or phase or frequency values. Bits are communicated wirelessly from one computer to another by representing "0" and "1" as radio frequency (RF) energy. Further, the smartphone 2552 can be charged at a higher speed due to its proximity to the transmitter 2501. A further advantage of this configuration is if the user decides to remove the smartphone 2552 from the surface of the transmitter 2501 (after the smartphone 2552 has accumulated a minimum charge to establish communication with the transmitter 2501). The 2552 is still able to receive power wirelessly through pocket formation. Therefore, the mobility of the smartphone 2552 does not have to be compromised.

B. An exemplary way of transmitting power
[0384] FIG. 12 is a method for determining the receiver position 1200 using the antenna element. The method for determining the receiver position 1200 can be a set of programmed rules or logics managed by the MC. The process can initiate step 1201 by capturing a first signal with a first subset of antennas from the antenna array. The process of switching to a different subset of antenna elements and capturing a second signal with a second subset of antennas in the next step 1203 can be immediately followed. For example, the first signal can be captured by a row of antennas and the second capture can be done by a row of antennas. The rows of antennas can provide horizontal orientations such as orientations in a spherical coordinate system. The row of antennas can provide vertical orientation such as elevation. The antenna elements used to capture the first and second signals can be aligned linearly, vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. The first and second subsets of antennas can be aligned in a cross-shaped structure to cover the degrees around the transmitter.

[0385] Once both the vertical and horizontal values have been measured, the MC will in the next step 1205, the appropriate values of phase and gain for the vertical and horizontal antenna elements used to capture the signal. Can be determined. Appropriate values for phase and gain can be determined by the relationship of the receiver's position with respect to the antenna. The value can be used by the MC to adjust the antenna element to form an energy pocket that can be used by the receiver to charge the electronic device.

[0386] Data on the initial values of all antenna elements in the transmitter can be calculated and pre-stored for use by the MC to aid in the calculation of appropriate values for the antenna elements. In the next step 1207, after determining the appropriate values for the vertical and horizontal antennas used to capture the signal, the process uses the stored data to be appropriate for all antennas in the array. It can be continued by determining the appropriate value. The stored data can include initial phase and gain test values for all antenna elements in the array at different frequencies. Different sets of data can be stored for different frequencies and the MC can select the appropriate data accordingly. In the next step 1209, the MC can then adjust all antennas through the RFIC to form an energy pocket in the proper position.

C. Array subset configuration
[0387] FIG. 13A shows an exemplary embodiment of an array subset configuration 1300A that can be used in a method for determining receiver position. The transmitter can include an array of antennas 1306A. Line 1368A of the antenna can first be used to capture the signal transmitted by the receiver. Line 1368A of the antenna can then transfer the signal to the RFIC, where the signal can be converted from a radio signal to a digital signal and passed to the MC for processing. The MC can then determine the appropriate adjustments for phase and gain in row 1368A of the antenna to form an energy pocket at the appropriate position based on the receiver position. The second signal can be captured by row 1370A of antennas. The row of antennas 1370A can then transfer the signal to the RFIC, where the signal can be converted from a radio signal to a digital signal and passed to the MC for processing. The MC can then determine the appropriate adjustments for phase and gain in row 1370A of the antenna to form the energy pocket at the appropriate position based on the receiver position. Once appropriate adjustments have been determined for antenna row 1368A and antenna column 1370A, the MC will use the previously stored data for the antenna and accordingly the results from antenna row 1368A and antenna column 1370A. The appropriate values can be determined for the remaining antenna elements 1306A in the antenna array 1368A.

D. Transmitters, transmitter components, antenna tiles, and system configurations related to transmitters 1. Illustrative system
[0388] FIG. 13B shows another exemplary embodiment of the array subset configuration 1300B. In array subset configuration 1300B, both initial signals are captured by two diagonal subsets of the antenna. The process follows the same path, thereby adjusting each subset accordingly. The remaining antenna elements 1306B of the antenna array are adjusted based on the adjustments made and the previously stored data.

2. Flat transmitter
[0389] FIG. 14 shows a front view of the flat transmitter 1402 and a rear view of some embodiments. The transmitter 1402 can include the antenna element 1406 and the RFIC 1408 in a flat configuration. The RFIC1408 can be incorporated directly behind each antenna element 1406, and such integration can reduce the loss due to the reduced distance between the components.

[0390] In one embodiment of transmitter 1402 (ie, view 1), the phase and amplitude of pocket formation per antenna element 1406 is determined by the corresponding RFIC1408 to produce the desired pocket formation and transmit null steering. Can be adjusted. Selected RFIC1408 coupled to each antenna element 1406 can reduce processing requirements, increase control over pocket formation, and for MC1410 multiple pocket formation and higher particle size at lower load. It allows for pocket formation, which allows for a higher response to a larger number of multiple pocket formations. In addition, the multi-pocket formation can charge a larger number of receivers, allowing for a better trajectory for such receivers. As described in the embodiment of FIG. 11, the RFIC 1408 can be coupled to one or more MC 1410s, and the microcontroller 1410 can be included in an independent base station or transmitter 1402.

[0391] In another embodiment (ie, view 2), a subset of the four antenna elements 1406 can be connected to a single RFIC1408. A smaller number of RFIC1408s present within the transmitter 142 can accommodate desired features such as weaker control of multiple pocket formation, lower particle size levels, and lower cost embodiments. As described in the embodiment of FIG. 11, the RFIC 1408 can be coupled to one or more MC 1410s, and the microcontroller 1410 can be included in an independent base station or in transmitter 1402.

[0392] In another embodiment (ie, view 3), transmitter 1402 may include antenna element 1406 and RFIC 1408 in a flat configuration. The rows or columns of antenna element 1406 can be connected to a single MC1410. A smaller number of RFIC1408s present in transmitter 1402 can accommodate desired features such as weaker control of multiple pocket formation, lower particle size levels, and lower cost embodiments. RFIC1408 connected to each row or column can enable a lower cost transmitter 1402 that can generate pocket formation by changing the phase and gain between rows or columns. As described in the embodiment of FIG. 11, the RFIC 1408 can be coupled to one or more MC 1410s, and the microcontroller 1410 can be included in an independent base station or transmitter 1402.

[0393] In some embodiments (ie, view 4), transmitter 1402 can include antenna elements 1406 and RFIC 1408 in a flat configuration. In this exemplary embodiment, a cascade configuration is shown. Two antenna elements 1406 can be connected to a single RFIC1408, which can be further connected to a single RFIC1408, which can be connected to the final RFIC1408, and one or more of them. Can be connected to the MC1410 of. The flat transmitter 1402 using the cascade configuration of RFIC1408 can provide greater control over pocket formation and can increase the response for the target receiver. In addition, higher reliability and accuracy can be achieved due to the multiple redundancy of the RFIC1408. As described in the embodiment of FIG. 11, the RFIC 1408 can be coupled to one or more MC 1410s, and the microcontroller 1410 can be included in an independent base station or transmitter 1402.

3. 3. Multiple printed circuit board layers
[0394] FIG. 15A may include multiple PCB layers 1204A that can include antenna element 1506A to provide greater control over pocket formation and can increase the response for the target receiver. The transmitter 1502A capable is shown. The plurality of PCB layers 1504A can increase the range and amount of power that can be transferred by the transmitter 1502A. The PCB layer 1504A can be connected to a single MC or a dedicated MC. Similarly, the RFIC can be connected to the antenna element 1506A as shown in the above embodiments. RFICs can bind to one or more MCs. In addition, the MC can be included in an independent base station or transmitter 1502A.

4. Box type transmitter
[0395] FIG. 15B shows a box-type transmitter 1502B that can include a plurality of PCB layers 1504B inside. The box transmitter 1502B can include an antenna element 1506B that provides greater control over pocket formation and can increase the response for the target receiver. Further, the box type transmitter 1502B can increase the range of wireless power transmission. The plurality of PCB layers 1504B can increase the range and amount of RF power waves that can be wirelessly transferred and / or broadcast by transmitter 1502B due to the higher density of antenna elements 1506B. The PCB layer 1504B can be connected to a single MC or a dedicated MC for each antenna element 1506B. Similarly, the RFIC can control the antenna element 1506B as shown in the above embodiment. Further, the box shape of the transmitter 800 can increase the working ratio of wireless power transmission. Therefore, the box-type transmitter 1502B can be located on a plurality of surfaces such as a desk, a table, and a floor. In addition, the box transmitter 1502B can include several configurations of PCB layer 1504B that can be directed to the X-axis, Y-axis or Z-axis, or any combination thereof. RFICs can bind to one or more MCs. In addition, the MC can be included in an independent base station or transmitter 1502B.

5. Irregular array for various types of products
[0396] FIG. 16 shows a diagram of architecture 1600 for incorporating transmitter 1602 into different devices. For example, the flat transmitter 1602 can be applied to frames of television 1646 or over frames of soundbar 1648. Transmitter 1602 can include multiple tiles 1650 with antenna elements and RFICs in a flat configuration. The RFIC can be incorporated directly behind each antenna element, and such integration can reduce the loss due to the reduced distance between the components.

[0397] For example, a television 1646 may have a bezel around the television 1646 containing a plurality of tiles 1650, each tile being composed of a certain number of antenna elements. For example, if there are 20 tiles 1650 around the bezel of television 1646, each tile 1650 can have 24 antenna elements and / or any number of antenna elements.

[0398] At tile 1650, the phase and amplitude of each pocket formation in each antenna element can be adjusted by the corresponding RFIC to produce the desired pocket formation and transmit null steering. Selected RFICs coupled to each antenna element can reduce processing requirements, increase control over pocket formation, multiple pocket formation with lower load and higher particle size for the microcontroller. It allows for pocket formation, which allows for a higher response of a larger number of multiple pocket formations. In addition, the multi-pocket formation can charge a larger number of receivers, allowing for a better trajectory for such receivers.

[0399] The RFIC can be coupled to one or more microcontrollers and can be included in an independent base station or in tile 1650 in transmitter 1602. The rows or columns of antenna elements can be connected to a single microcontroller. In some embodiments, a smaller number of RFICs present in the transmitter 1602 correspond to desired features such as weaker control of multiple pocket formation, lower particle size levels, and lower cost embodiments. be able to. RFICs connected to each row or column require fewer RFICs to control each of the transmitter 1602, so it can be made possible to reduce costs by having fewer components. RFICs can generate pocket-forming power transfer waves by varying the phase and gain between rows or columns.

[0400] In some embodiments, the transmitter 1602 can use a cascade configuration of tiles 1650 including RFICs, which can provide greater control over pocket formation and target receivers. The response can be increased. In addition, higher reliability and accuracy can be achieved due to the multiple redundancy of the RFIC.

[0401] In one embodiment, a plurality of PCB layers, including antenna elements, can provide greater control over pocket formation and can increase the response for the target receiver. The plurality of PCB layers can increase the range and amount of power that can be transferred by the transmitter 1602. The PCB layer can be connected to a single microcontroller or a dedicated microcontroller. Similarly, the RFIC can be connected to the antenna element.

[0402] The box transmitter 1602 can include multiple PCB layers inside and can include antenna elements that provide greater control over pocket formation, which can increase the response for the target receiver. can. Further, the box-type transmitter 1602 can increase the range of wireless power transmission. Multiple PCB layers can increase the range and amount of RF power waves that can be wirelessly transferred and / or broadcast by transmitter 1602 due to the higher density of antenna elements. The PCB layer can be connected to a single microcontroller or a dedicated microcontroller for each antenna element. Similarly, the RFIC can control the antenna element. The box shape of the transmitter 1602 can increase the working ratio of wireless power transmission. Therefore, the box-type transmitter 1602 can be located on a plurality of surfaces such as a desk, a table, and a floor. In addition, the box transmitter can include several configurations of PCB layers that can be directed to the X-axis, Y-axis and / or Z-axis, or any combination thereof.

6. Multiple antenna elements
[0403] FIG. 17 is an example of a transmitter configuration 1700 including a plurality of antenna elements 1706. Antenna elements 1706 can form an array by arranging rows 1768 of antennas and columns 1770 of antennas. The transmitter configuration can include at least one RFIC1708 that controls features of the antenna element 1706, such as gain and / or phase for pocket formation, which can be managed through direction, power level, and the like. An array of antenna elements 1706 can be connected to the MC1710, which is the optimum time point for pocket formation, including the most effective trajectory to transmit pocket formation to reduce loss due to obstacles. And the position can be determined. Such trajectories can include direct pocket formation, bounce, and pocket formation distance distinctions.

[0404] The transmitter device may utilize the antenna element 1706 to position the receiver to determine how to adjust the antenna element 1706 to form an energy pocket in the proper position. can. The receiver can send a train signal to the transmitter to provide the information. The training signal can be any conventional known signal that can be detected by the antenna element 1706. The signal transmitted by the receiver can include information such as phase and gain.

7. Enhanced wireless power transmitter configuration
[0405] FIG. 26 shows a block diagram of an enhanced wireless power transmitter 2601 that can be used for wireless power transfer according to an embodiment. Transmitter 2601 includes a housing 2674, at least two or more antenna elements 2606, at least one receive (Rx) RF integrated circuit (RFIC) 2626, multiple transmit (Tx) RF integrated circuits (RFIC) 2608, and at least one digital. It can include a signal processor (DSP) and / or a microcontroller 2610, and / or one communication component 2612. The microcontroller 2610 can be included in an independent base station or transmitter 2601. The RF input signal 2642 can also be generated using a power source 2614 and a local oscillator chip (not shown) using piezoelectric material, or from frequency chips, Bluetooth® and Wi-Fi, etc. It can also be from a wireless source (not shown).

[0406] The housing 2674 can be made from any material capable of transmitting and / or receiving signals or waves, such as plastic or hard rubber. The antenna element 2606 can include an antenna type for operating in a frequency band such as 900 MHz, 2.5 GHz or 5.8 GHz. This is because these frequency bands comply with Part 18 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Regulations, Industrial, Scientific, and Medical Devices. The antenna element 2606 can include vertically or horizontally polarized light, right or left polarized light, elliptically polarized light, and / or other polarized light, and a combination of polarized light. The antenna can be omnidirectional and / or directional. An omnidirectional antenna is a class of antennas that radiate radio power uniformly in all directions in one plane. A directional antenna can have an antenna or antenna in a wireless power transmitter that can have a directional or phase adjusted to control where the wireless energy pocket is available in 3D physical space within the transmitter's power range. It can be an array. Antenna types can include, for example, patch antennas that can have a height of about 1/8 inch to about 8 inches and a width of about 1/8 inch to about 6 inches. Other types of antenna elements 2606 that can be used include metamaterial-based antennas, dipole antennas and flat plate inverted-F antennas (PIFAs), among others.

[0407] Transmitter 2601 can include multiple arrangements in which the antenna element 2606 can be connected to RX RFIC 2626 or TX RFIC 2608. Arrangements can include different configurations such as a dedicated row or column of antenna element 2606 coupled to Rx RFIC 2626 and at least two or more rows or columns of antenna element 2606 coupled to Tx RFIC 2608. The Rx RFIC 2626 includes a unique chip for adjusting the phase and / or relative magnitude of the RF input signal 2642 collected from the antenna element 2606 in a dedicated set / configuration for receiving the RF input signal 2642. be able to. The Rx RFIC can be designed to include hardware and logic elements specifically dedicated to the reception and processing of the RF input signal 2642, which are not included as components of the TX RFIC 2608.

[0408] In this embodiment of the enhanced wireless transmitter, 24 RFICs can be connected to the antenna element 2606 (2674) and a dedicated receiver for the RF input signal 2642 can be used to configure and operate the transmitter 2601. Relying on it, it can be configured to allow the operation of the Rx RFIC when operatively coupled to a dedicated row of at least two or more antenna elements 2606, eg, eight antenna elements 2606. The remaining 23 Tx RFICs 2608 can be operably coupled to the set / configuration of the antenna elements 2606, except for the antenna elements used to receive the RF input signal 2642 by the Rx RFIC. The Tx RFIC can be coupled to the transmitting antenna element 2606 by relying on a control signal from the microcontroller 2610.

[0409] The microcontroller 2610 performs control of the Rx RFIC 2626 and uses a switching control that allows the reception to be monitored separately from the transmission without duplication in the operation of the Rx RFIC 2626 and the Tx RFIC 2608. It can include proprietary algorithms that enable it to work. The RF input signal 2642 can be sampled shortly after the Rx RFIC 2626 can be allowed to receive by switching control in the microcontroller 2610.

[0410] After the operation of the Rx RFIC 2626, the Tx RFIC 2608 can perform wireless power transfer to the receiver. The microcontroller 2601 may select any interpolation of the columns of the antenna elements 2606, the rows of the antenna elements 2606, or the arrangement of the antenna elements 2606 for coupling to the Tx RFIC 2608, depending on the location of the source of the wireless power. can.

[0411] The microcontroller 2610 can also process the information transmitted by the receiver through the communication component 2612 to determine the optimal time and position for pocket formation. Communication component 2612 can be based on standard wireless communication protocols that can include Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi or ZigBee®. In addition, communication component 2612 can be used to transfer other information such as device or user identifiers, battery levels, locations or other such information. Other communication components 2612 are also possible, including sound devices for acoustic triangulation of radar, infrared cameras, or electronic device locations.

[0412] FIG. 27 shows the transmitter arrangement 2701 of the antenna element 2706 that can be coupled to the dedicated Rx RFIC 2762 according to the embodiment. Transmitted by a receiver processed by the communication component regarding the location where the RF input signal can be received and the optimum time and position determination for pocket formation that can improve the efficiency of wireless power transfer. Relying on the information, the microcontroller 2710 can choose between the Tx RFIC and the arrangement of the antenna elements 2706 so as to maximize the transmission operation of the transmitter. The microcontroller 2710 can transmit the switching control signal to the Rx RFIC 2726 coupled to either the antenna column 2706b or the antenna row 2706a to include the antenna element 2706 that receives the RF input signal. After receiving and processing the signal by the Rx RFIC 2726, the remaining antenna element 2706 can be coupled to the Tx RFIC using multiple configurations of the antenna element 2706 as a result of the interpolation step. The interpolation step can be performed by the microcontroller 2710 to control the operation of the Tx RFIC using the ARM microprocessor in the microcontroller 2710 to improve the wireless power transfer performance of the transmitter and transmit wireless power. To the proper position.

[0413] The antenna element 2706 connected to the Rx RFIC 2726 can reduce processing requirements, increase control over pocket formation, multiple pocket formation and higher particle size with less load on the microcontroller 2710. It allows for pocket formation, which allows for a higher number of multi-pocket formations to respond to transmission. In addition, multi-pocket formation can charge a larger number of receivers, allowing better orbits for such receivers and providing cheaper embodiments.

[0414] FIG. 28 shows a block diagram 2800 of the Rx RFIC 2808 in an enhanced wireless power transmitter according to an embodiment. RF input signals received by the antenna element 2806, which is receive-only and operatively coupled to the Rx RFIC 2808, activates the microcontroller 2810 depending on where they can be radiated to the transmitter. The RF input signal can then be frequency sampled by the array of downconverters included in the Rx RFIC2808, where the frequency range of the RF input signal of about 2.4 GHz or about 5.6 GHz is added to the new frequency. It can be shifted to a range of RF signals.

[0415] The downconverter 2876 can include a local oscillator (not shown) that provides a signal of a given frequency that mixes with the RF input signal to produce a sum heterodyne and a differential heterodyne, from which one of the heterodyne Can be filtered to provide the desired output frequency. In this embodiment, a signal of about 5.8 GHz can be down-converted to an output signal of about 5.0 GHz. The 5.0 GHz output signal from the downconverter 2876 can then be fed to the addressing line (A20) 2878 at 10 MHz for processing by the microcontroller 2810. The enhanced wireless power transmitter can receive at one frequency, eg 2.4 GHz, and transmit at a higher frequency, eg 5.7 GHz.

[0416] The microcontroller 2810 is capable of transmitting a control signal of about 1 msec or about 100 μsec to the Rx RFIC 2808, depending on how fast the RF input signal can be received, every 1 msec. , Or the control can be enabled about 10 times per second for 1 msec. If the RF input signal can be received at all times, for example every 10 μsec, the update can be performed up to about 1000 times per second.
In microcontroller 2810, a unique algorithm can allow sampling of signals coming from each A20 2878 and uses an ARM microprocessor (not shown) to transmit wireless power to the appropriate location on the receiver. It is possible to drive the required Tx RFIC coupled to the determined set / configuration of the antenna element 2806. Costs, heat and power usage can be reduced by using ARM microprocessors, as may be desirable for electronic devices powered or charged using wireless power transfer. The instruction set architecture of the ARM microprocessor can enable higher processing power and energy efficiency for the microcontroller 2810.

8. Multiple transmitter configurations
[0417] FIG. 29 shows a block diagram of a wireless power system 2900 that can include multiple wireless power transmitters 2901 connected to a single base station 2980. The transmitter 2901 may include one or more antenna elements 2906, one or more radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs) 2908, a communication component 2912, and a housing 2974 to which all the components described above can be assigned. can. Base station 2980 can include one or more microcontrollers 2910, a power supply 2914, and a housing 2974 to which all the components described above can be assigned. The components in the wireless power system 2900 and the base station can be manufactured using metamaterials, circuit microprints, nanomaterials and the like.

[0418] Base station 2980 can be located in a wide variety of locations, where transmitter 2910 can remain connected to base station 2980. Such connections can include a wide variety of connections, including coaxial cables, telephone cables, LAN cables, wireless connections, among others. The connection between the base station 2980 and the transmitter 2910 is intended to establish a link between the RFIC 2908 and the microcontroller 2910 and a connection for the power supply 2914.

[0419] The microcontroller 2910 can control a wide range of features of the RFIC 2908, such as time release of pocket formation, pocket formation method, bounce angle, and power intensity. Further, the microcontroller 2910 can control the formation of multiple pockets for multiple receivers or for a single receiver. In addition, microcontroller 2910 can manage and control communication protocols and signals by controlling communication component 2912. A protocol can refer to a method of conversion between low-level information data such as binary bits or bytes and high-level information data such as digits, alphanumeric characters, letters, punctuation marks, numbers, or characters in ASCII tables. .. The protocol can also have a prediction format or prediction pattern of information data over time. Therefore, the microcontroller 2910 can simultaneously drive the above features of several transmitters 2901.

[0420] The base station 2980 can be supplied with a power source 2914, which can then supply power to the transmitter 2901. The power supply 2914 can include an AC power supply or a DC power supply. The voltage, power and current strength provided by the power supply 2914 can vary depending on the power that needs to be transmitted. The conversion of power to radio signals can be managed by microcontroller 2910 and performed by RFIC2908. The RFIC2908 can utilize multiple methods and components to generate radio signals over a wide range of frequencies, wavelengths, intensities and other features.

[0421] As an exemplary use of a wide variety of methods and components for radio signal generation, oscillators and piezoelectric crystals can be used to generate and modify radio frequencies in different antenna elements 2906. In addition, a wide variety of filters can be used to smooth the signal and amplifiers can be used to increase the power transmitted. On the other hand, in some embodiments, the charging technique of the present invention is not limited to the RF transmission technique and includes further techniques for transmitting energy to the receiving device. Here, the receiving device converts the transmitted energy into electric power. Illustrative forms of energy that can be converted to power by the receiving device can include ultrasonic, microwave, resonant and induced magnetic fields, laser light, infrared, or other forms of electromagnetic energy. In the case of ultrasonic waves, for example, one or more transducer elements can be arranged to form a transducer array that transmits the ultrasonic waves towards the receiving device, which receiving device receives the ultrasonic waves and receives the ultrasonic waves. Converts ultrasonic waves into power. In the case of a resonant magnetic field and an induced magnetic field, a magnetic field is generated in the transmitting coil and converted into power by the receiver coil. In addition, the RFIC 2908, microcontroller 2910, communication component 2914 and the remaining electronic components can be incorporated into the solid state circuit to increase the reliability of the wireless power system 2900. Other techniques may be used to increase the reliability of the electronic components.

[0422] FIG. 30 shows a wireless power system 3000 that can include two transmitters 3001, a base station 3080 and a connection 3082. Base station 3080 can allow the operation of different transmitters 3001 in different room or area coverage. Each transmitter 3001 can operate at different frequencies, power intensities and ranges. Further, each transmitter 3001 can provide power to a plurality of receivers. In addition, base station 3080 can allow a single operation of all transmitters 3001 and therefore, by using each transmitter 3001 as a single transmitter, higher capacity for wireless charging. Can be provided.

[0423] FIG. 31 shows a wireless power system 3100 that can include two transmitters 3101, a base station 3180, and a connection 3182. Base station 3180 can allow different transmitters 3101 to operate in different room or area coverage. Each transmitter 3101 can operate at different frequencies, power intensities and ranges. Further, each transmitter 3101 can provide power to a plurality of receivers. In addition, base station 3180 can allow a single operation of all transmitters 3101, which allows for higher capacity for wireless charging by using each transmitter 3101 as a single transmitter. Can be provided. Further, the transmitter 3101 can be plugged into the illumination socket 3184. Such a lighting socket 3184 can increase the place where the transmitter 3101 can be installed.

III. Receiver-Systems and methods for receiving and utilizing wireless power transfer A. Receiver device components
[0424] With reference to FIG. 11, which shows the architecture of system 1100 for wireless charging of client devices, according to exemplary embodiments, each system 1100 may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). A capable transmitter 1101 and a receiver 1120 can be provided. The ASIC of the receiver 1120 may include a printed circuit board 1122, an antenna element 1124, a rectifier 1126, a power converter 1129, a communication component 1130 and / or a power management integrated circuit (PMIC) 1132. The receiver 1120 may also include a housing to which all required components can be assigned. The various components of receiver 1120 can include, or can be manufactured using, metamaterials, microprints of circuits, nanomaterials, and the like.

1. 1. Antenna element The antenna element 1124 can include an antenna type suitable for operating in a frequency band similar to the band described for the antenna element 1106 of transmitter 1101. Antenna element 1124 can include vertically or horizontally polarized, right or left polarized, elliptically polarized, or other suitable polarizations, and combinations of suitable polarizations. The use of multiple polarizations can be advantageous in devices that do not have a preferred orientation during use or whose orientation may change continuously over time, such as smartphones or handheld game consoles. In contrast, for devices with well-defined and expected orientations, such as video game controllers that use both hands, there may be a favorable polarization of the antennas, which gives a given for multiple antennas. You can specify the polarization ratio. Suitable antenna types can include patch antennas having a height of about 118 inches to about 6 inches and a width of about 1/8 inch to about 6 inches. The patch antenna can have the advantage that the polarization can depend on connectivity, i.e., the polarization can vary depending on which side the patch is supplied from. This further demonstrates the advantage that receivers such as receiver 1120 can dynamically change their antenna polarization to optimize wireless power transfer. As described in the embodiments herein, different antenna, rectifier or power converter configurations are possible for the receiver.

2. rectifier
[0425] The rectifier 1126 can convert alternating current (AC), whose direction is periodically reversed, into direct current (DC), which has a non-negative value. Due to the alternating characteristics of the input AC sine waves, the rectification process alone produces a non-negative DC current consisting of current pulses. The output of the rectifier is smoothed by an electronic filter and can generate a constant current. The rectifier 1126 can include diodes and / or registers, inductors and / or capacitors that rectify the alternating current (AC) voltage generated by the antenna element 1124 to direct current (DC) voltage.

[0426] In some embodiments, the rectifier 1126 can be a full-wave rectifier. A full-wave rectifier can convert the entire input waveform to one of a constant polarity (positive or negative) at its output. Full-wave rectification can convert the polarities of both input waveforms to pulsating DC (direct current), resulting in a higher average output voltage. Two diodes, a center-tapped transducer and / or four diodes in a bridge configuration, and any AC source (including a converter without a center-tap) can be utilized for the full-wave rectifier. For single-phase AC, if the transducer is center tapped, a full-wave rectifier will utilize two back-to-back diodes (cathode / cathode or anode / anode, depending on the required output polarity). Can be formed. Double windings may be required in the secondary transducer to obtain the same output voltage as in the bridge rectifier, but the power rating does not change. The rectifier 1126 can be located as close as possible to the antenna element 1124 where it is technically possible to minimize the loss. After rectifying the AC voltage, the DC voltage can be rectified using the power converter 1129.

3. 3. Power converter
[0427] The power converter 1129 can be a DC / DC converter that can help provide a constant voltage output and / or boost the voltage to receiver 1120. In some embodiments, the DC / DC converter can be a maximum power point tracker (MPPT). MPPT is an electronic DC / DC converter that converts higher DC output to the lower voltage needed to charge the battery. The normal voltage output can be from about 5 volts to about 10 volts. In some embodiments, the power converter 1129 can include an electronic switching mode DC / DC converter that can provide high efficiency. In such cases, the capacitor can be included in front of the power converter 1129 to ensure that sufficient current is provided for the switching device to operate. When charging an electronic device, such as a telephone or laptop computer, an initial high current that can exceed the level required to activate the operation of the electronic switching mode DC / DC converter may be required. In such cases, a capacitor can be added to the output of receiver 1120 to provide the additional energy required. It can then provide lower power, depending on what is needed to provide the appropriate amount of current, for example, total initial while still accumulating charge on the phone or laptop. 1/80 of electric power can be used.

[0428] In one embodiment, a plurality of rectifiers 1126 can be connected in parallel to the antenna element 1124. For example, the four rectifiers 1126 can be connected in parallel to the antenna element 1124. On the other hand, some additional rectifiers 1126 can be used. This configuration can be advantageous because each rectifier 1126 only needs to handle 1/4 of the total power. If 1 watt is delivered to the electronic device, each rectifier 1126 may only need to handle 1/4 watt. The configuration can significantly reduce costs, as using multiple low power rectifiers 1126 can be less costly than using one high power rectifier 1126 while handling the same amount of power. Can be done. In some embodiments, the total power handled by the rectifier 1126 can be combined into the power converter 1129. In other embodiments, there may be one power converter 1129 for each rectifier 1126.

[0429] In another embodiment, a plurality of antenna elements 1124 can be connected in parallel to the rectifier 1126, after which the DC voltage can be adjusted through the power converter 1129. In this example, four antenna elements 1124 can be connected in parallel to a single rectifier 1126. This configuration can be advantageous because each antenna element 1124 may handle only 1/4 of the total power. Moreover, since the signals may not cancel each other out, the configuration can allow the use of antenna elements 1124 with different polarizations than a single rectifier 1126. Due to the above characteristics, the configuration can be suitable for electronic client devices that are not well defined or have orientations that fluctuate over time. Finally, the configuration can be advantageous when using equally polarized antenna elements 1124 and can be configured for phases that do not differ significantly. On the other hand, in some embodiments, there may be one rectifier 1126 for each antenna element 1124 and / or a plurality of rectifiers 1126 for each antenna element 1124.

[0430] In an exemplary embodiment, the outputs of a plurality of antenna elements 1124 can be coupled and connected to a parallel rectifier 1126, and the outputs of the rectifier 1126 can be further coupled into one power converter 1129. Can be implemented. There can be 16 antenna elements 1124 whose outputs can be coupled in four parallel rectifiers 1126. In other embodiments, the antenna element 1124 can be subdivided into groups (eg, four) and can be connected to independent rectifiers 1126.

[0431] In yet another embodiment, a configuration can be implemented in which a group of antenna elements 1124 can be connected to different rectifiers 1126, and the rectifier 1126 can also be connected to even different power converters 1129. In this embodiment, four groups of antenna elements 1124, each including four antenna elements 1124 in parallel, can be independently connected to each of the four rectifiers 1126. In this embodiment, the outputs of each rectifier 1126 can be directly connected to power converters 1129 (four in total). In other embodiments, the outputs of all four rectifiers 1126 can be combined in front of each power converter 1129 to handle the total power in parallel. In some embodiments, the combined output of each rectifier 1126 can be connected to a single power converter 1129. This configuration can be advantageous in that it allows for great proximity between the rectifier 1126 and the antenna element 1124. This property may be desirable as it can maintain minimal loss.

4. Communication component
[0432] The communication component 1130 can be included in the receiver 1120 for communication with the transmitter or to other electronic devices, as in the case of the transmitter 1101. In some embodiments, the receiver 1120 provides a built-in communication component of the device for communicating with a given transmitter 1120 based on requirements provided by the processor such as battery level, user-defined charging profile and the like. Can be used. Transmitter 1101 is one or more printed circuit boards (PCB) 1104, one or more antenna elements 1106, one or more radio frequency integrated circuits (RFIC) 1108, and one or more microcontrollers (MC). ) 1110, communication component 1112, and power supply 1114. Transmitter 1101 can be housed in a housing to which all required components for transmitter 1101 can be assigned. The components in transmitter 1101 can be manufactured using metamaterials, microprints of circuits, nanomaterials and / or any other material. The types of information communicated by the communication components between the receiver and the transmitter are, but are not limited to, the power level in the battery, the signal strength and power level received in the receiver, the timing information, the phase and Includes gain information, user identification information, client device rights, security-related signaling, emergency signaling, and authentication exchange.

5. PMIC
[0433] A power management integrated circuit (PMIC) 1132 is an integrated circuit and / or system block in a system-on-chip device for managing the power requirements of a host system. The PMIC 1132 can include battery management, voltage regulation and charging functions. The PMIC 1132 can include a DC / DC converter that allows dynamic voltage scaling. In some embodiments, the PMIC 1132 can provide up to 95% power conversion efficiency. In some embodiments, the PMIC 1132 can be integrated in combination with dynamic frequency scaling. The PMIC 1132 can be implemented in battery-powered devices such as mobile phones and / or portable media players. In some embodiments, the battery can be replaced with an input capacitor and an output capacitor. The PMIC 1132 can be directly connected to a battery and / or a capacitor. Capacitors may not be implemented when the batteries are charged directly. In some embodiments, the PMIC 1132 is capable of coiling around the battery. The PMIC 1132 can include a power management chip (PMC) that acts as a charger and is connected to the battery. PMIC1132 can use pulse frequency modulation (PFM) and pulse width modulation (PWM). The PMIC 1132 can use a switching amplifier (class D electronic amplifier). In some embodiments, an output converter, rectifier and / or BLE can also be included in the PMIC 1132.

6. housing
[0434] The housing can be made from any suitable material that can enable signal or wave transmission and / or reception, such as plastic or hard rubber. The housing can be, for example, external hardware that can be added to different electronics in the form of a case, or it can be built into the electronics.

7. network
[0435] Network 1140 can include any common communication architecture that facilitates communication between transmitter 1101 and receiver 1120. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that network 1140 can be the Internet, a private intranet, or some hybrid of the two. It should also be apparent to those skilled in the art that network components can be implemented in dedicated processing equipment or, in the alternative, in cloud processing networks.

A. Configuration for receivers, receiver components, and systems related to receivers 1. Multiple rectifiers connected in parallel to the antenna element
[0436] FIG. 18A shows a configuration 1800A capable of connecting a plurality of rectifiers 1826A to the antenna element 1824A in parallel. In this example, four rectifiers 1826A can be connected in parallel to the antenna element 1824A. On the other hand, some additional rectifiers 1826A may be used. The configuration 1800A can be advantageous because each rectifier 1826A only needs to handle 1/4 of the total power. If 1 watt is delivered to the electronic device, each rectifier 1826F may only need to handle a quarter watt. Since using a plurality of low power rectifiers 1826A can be cheaper than using one high power rectifier 1826A when handling the same amount of power, the configuration 1800A can significantly reduce the cost. In some embodiments, the total power handled by the rectifier 1826A can be combined into one DC / DC converter 1828A. In other embodiments, there can be one DC / DC converter 1828A per rectifier 1826A.

2. Multiple antenna elements connected in parallel to the rectifier
[0437] FIG. 18 shows a configuration 1800B in which a plurality of antenna elements 1824B can be connected in parallel to the rectifier 1826B and then the DC voltage can be adjusted through the DC / DC converter 1828B. In this example, four antenna elements 1824B can be connected in parallel to a single rectifier 1826B. Since each antenna element 1824B only needs to handle 1/4 of the total power, the configuration 1800B can be advantageous. Further, configuration 1800B can allow the use of antenna elements 1824B with different polarizations using a single rectifier 1826B, as the signals may not cancel each other out. Due to the above characteristics, configuration 1800 can be suitable for electronic devices that are not well defined or have orientations that fluctuate over time. Finally, configuration 1800B can be advantageous when configured with equally polarized antenna elements 1824B for phases that do not differ significantly. On the other hand, in some embodiments, there may be one rectifier 1826B per antenna element 1824B or multiple rectifiers 1826 per antenna element 1824B (as shown in FIG. 18A).

3. 3. Multiple antenna elements connected in parallel to multiple rectifiers
FIG. 19A shows a configuration 1900A in which the outputs of a plurality of antenna elements 1924A can be combined and connected to a parallel rectifier 1926A, and the outputs of the rectifier 1926A can be further combined in one DC converter 1928A. .. Configuration 1900A illustrates, by way of example, 16 antenna elements 1924A, the outputs of the 16 antenna elements 1924A can be coupled in four parallel rectifiers 1926A. In another embodiment, the antenna element 1924A can be subdivided into groups (eg, four groups) and can be connected to independent rectifiers as shown in FIG. 19B below.

4. Grouping replacement
[0439] FIG. 19B shows configuration 1900B in which a group of antenna elements 1624B can be connected to different rectifiers 1926B, which rectifier 1926B can also be connected to different DC converters 1928B. In configuration 1900B, each of the four groups of antenna elements 1924B (each containing four parallel antenna elements 1924B) can be independently connected to the four rectifiers 1926B. In this embodiment, the output of each rectifier 1926B can be directly connected to DC converters 1928B (4 in total). In other embodiments, the outputs of all four rectifiers 1926B can be combined in front of each DC converter 1928B to handle total power in parallel. In other embodiments, the combined output of each rectifier 1926B can be connected to a single DC converter 1928B. Configuration 1900B can be advantageous in that it allows for great proximity between the rectifier 1926B and the antenna element 1924B. This property may be desirable as it can minimize losses.

[0440] The receiver is an electronic device or device that can rely on power to perform its intended function, such as a telephone, laptop computer, remote television, children's toys or any other such device. Can be implemented in, can be connected to these, or can be incorporated into them. A receiver that utilizes pocket formation can be used to fully charge the device's battery while it is "on" or "off", or while it is being used or not being used. Further, the battery life can be significantly improved. For example, a device operating at 2 watts utilizing a receiver capable of delivering 1 watt can increase battery life by up to about 50%. Finally, some devices currently running on the battery can be fully powered using the receiver, after which the battery may no longer be needed. This last property may be advantageous for devices such as wall clocks where it can be awkward or difficult to achieve battery replacement. The following embodiments provide some examples of how receiver integration can be performed in electronic devices.

5. Enhanced wireless power receiver configuration
[0441] FIG. 33 shows a block diagram of a receiver 3320 that can be used to wirelessly power or charge one or more electronic devices. According to some aspects of this embodiment, the receiver 3320 operates with a variable power source generated from RF technique waves transmitted to deliver constant stable power or energy to the electronic device. Can be done. Further, the receiver 3320 can use the variable power source generated from the RF wave to activate the electronic components in the receiver 3320 for proper operation.

[0442] The receiver 3320 can be integrated into an electronic device and can be made from any suitable material that allows the transmission and / or reception of signals or waves, such as plastic or hard rubber housing. Can be included. The housing can be external hardware that can be added to different electronic devices, for example in the form of a case, or can also be incorporated into electronic devices.

[0443] The receiver 3320 can include an antenna array 3386 capable of converting RF waves or energy pockets into electric power. The antenna array 3386 may include one or more antenna elements 3324 operatively coupled to one or more rectifiers 3326. RF waves can exhibit a sinusoidal shape within the voltage amplitude and power range that can depend on the characteristics of the transmitter and transmission environment. The transmission environment may be affected by changes in objects within the physical boundaries, the movement of these objects, or the movement of the boundaries themselves. The environment may also be affected by changes in the transmission medium, such as changes in temperature or humidity. As a result, the voltage or power generated by the antenna array 3386 at the receiver 3320 can fluctuate. As an exemplary embodiment, but not limited, the alternating current (AC) voltage or power generated by the antenna element 3324 from the transmitted radio frequency or energy pocket is from about 0 volts or 0 watts to about 5 volts at 3 watts. Can fluctuate up to.

[0444] The antenna element 3324 may include an antenna type suitable for operating in a frequency band similar to the band described for the transmitter. The antenna element 3324 can include vertically or horizontally polarized, right or left polarized, elliptically polarized, or other polarized, and a combination of suitable polarized waves. The use of multiple polarizations can be advantageous in devices that do not have a preferred orientation during use or whose orientation may change continuously over time, such as electronic devices. Conversely, for devices with well-defined orientations, such as video game controllers that use both hands, there may be a preferred polarization of the antennas, which allows for a given polarization ratio for multiple antennas. Can be specified. Suitable antenna types can include patch antennas that can have a height of about 1/8 inch to about 6 inches and a width of about 1/8 inch to about 6 inches. The patch antenna can have the advantage that the polarization can depend on connectivity, i.e., the polarization can vary depending on which side the patch is supplied from. This turns out to be even more advantageous as the receiver 3320 can dynamically change its antenna polarization to optimize wireless power transfer.

[0445] The rectifier 3326 may include a diode or register, inductor, or capacitor for rectifying the AC voltage generated by the antenna element 3324 to a direct current (DC) voltage. The rectifier 3326 can be placed as close to the antenna element 3324 as technically possible to minimize loss. In one embodiment, the rectifier 3326 can operate in synchronous mode, in which case the rectifier 3326 can include a switching element that can improve the efficiency of rectification. As an exemplary embodiment, but not limited, the output of the rectifier 3326 can vary from about 0 volts to about 5 volts.

An input boost transducer can be included in the receiver 3320 that converts the variable DC output voltage of the rectifier 3326 to a more stable DC voltage that can be used by the receiver 3320 and / or components of the electronic device. .. The input boost converter 3258 can operate as a step-up DC / DC converter that increases the voltage from the rectifier 3326 to a voltage level suitable for the proper operation of the receiver 3320. As an exemplary embodiment, but not limited, the input boost transducer 3258 can operate with an input voltage of at least 0.4 to about 5 volts to produce an output voltage of about 5 volts. In addition, input boost transducers can reduce or eliminate deviations between rails. In one embodiment, the input boost transducer can exhibit a synchronous topology to increase power conversion efficiency.

[0447] The voltage or power generated from the RF wave can be zero at some point in wireless power transfer, so the receiver 3320 receives energy or charge from the output voltage generated by the input boost transducer. Can include a storage element 3352 for storing. In this way, the storage element 3352 can deliver a continuous voltage or power to the load through the output boost transducer, where the load is an electron that requires continuous power supply or charging. It can represent the battery or internal circuitry of the device. For example, the load can be a cell phone battery that requires constant delivery of 5 volts at 2.5 watts.

[0448] The storage element 3352 can include a battery 3392 that stores the power received from the input boost converter 3258 or the charge from the power. The battery 3392 can be of various types, including, but not limited to, alkali, nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel metal hydride (NiHM), and lithium ion. The battery 3392 can exhibit a shape and dimensions suitable for fitting the receiver 3320, while the charge capacity and cell design of the battery 3392 can depend on the load requirements. For example, the battery 3392 can deliver a voltage of about 3 volts to about 4.2 volts to charge or power a mobile phone.

[0449] In another embodiment, the storage element 3352 may include a capacitor instead of the battery 3392 to store and deliver the charge required by the receiver. As an example, when charging or powering a mobile phone, the receiver 3320 may include a capacitor with operating parameters suitable to meet the load requirements.

[0450] The receiver 3320 may also include an output boost transducer operatively coupled to a storage element 3352 and an input boost transducer, where the output boost transducer meets the impedance and power requirements of the load. It can be used to adapt. As an exemplary embodiment, the output boost transducer sets the output voltage of the battery 3392 from about 3 volts or 4.2 volts to the voltage required by the battery or internal circuitry of the electronic device. It can be increased up to about 5 volts which can be. Like input boost converters, output boost converters can be based on a synchronous topology to improve power conversion efficiency.

[0451] Storage element 3352 can provide power or voltage to a communication subsystem that can include a low loss regulator (LDO), a microcontroller, and an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). .. The LDO can function as a DC linear voltage regulator that provides a steady-state voltage suitable for low energy applications, such as in microcontrollers. The microcontroller can be operably coupled to the EEPROM to store data regarding the operation and monitoring of the receiver 3320. The microcontroller can also include clock (CLK) inputs and general purpose inputs / outputs (GPIOs).

[0452] In one embodiment, the microcontroller, in conjunction with EEPROM, can execute algorithms to control the operation of the input and output boost transducers according to load requirements. The microcontroller can actively monitor the overall operation of the receiver 3320 by acquiring one or more power measurements 3388 (ADCs) at different nodes. For example, a microcontroller can measure how much voltage or power is being delivered to a rectifier 3326, an input boost converter, a battery 3392, an output boost converter, a communication subsystem and / or a load. The microcontroller can communicate these power measurements 3388 to the load, allowing the electronic device to know how much power it can draw from the receiver 3320. In another embodiment, the microcontroller can control the power or voltage delivered in the load by adjusting the load current limit in the output boost transducer based on the power reading 3388. In yet another embodiment, the microcontroller can perform a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm to control and optimize the amount of power that the input boost transducer can derive from the antenna array 3386.

[0453] In another embodiment, the microcontroller can adjust the power or energy that can be drained from the storage element 3352 based on the monitoring of the power measurement 3388. For example, if the power or voltage in the input boost transducer is too low, the microcontroller can instruct the output boost converter to drain the battery 3392 to power the load.

[0454] The receiver 3320 may include a switch 3390 for resuming or interrupting the power delivered in the load. In one embodiment, the microcontroller can control the operation of Switch 3390 according to the terms of service contracted by one or more users of wireless power transfer, or according to administrator policy.

[0455] FIG. 34 shows a power conversion process 3400 that can be performed at the receiver during wireless power transfer. According to some aspects of this embodiment, the power conversion process 3400 extracts power from RF waves and / or energy pockets to provide the appropriate voltage or power to the receiver 108 and the internal components of the electronic device. Can be made possible.

[0456] The power conversion process 3400 can be started when the antenna element 3324 can convert RF waves and / or energy pockets to AC voltage or AC power. At step 3451, the rectifier can rectify this AC voltage or AC power to DC voltage or DC power. At this stage, the DC voltage or DC power generated in the rectifier can be variable depending on the conditions for extracting power from the RF waves and / or energy pockets. Then, in step 3453, the input boost transducer can increase the DC voltage or DC power obtained from the rectifier to a voltage or power level that can be used by the storage elements or other internal components of the receiver. In one embodiment, the input boost transducer can receive input (based on the MPPT algorithm) from the microcontroller to adjust and optimize the amount of power that can be drawn from the antenna array. At this stage, the regulated and increased voltage in the input boost transducer can be directly utilized by the load, but this voltage is not always continuous given the unique characteristics of the RF wave. In some cases.

The regulated DC voltage generated by the input boost transducer can be used to charge the storage element, where the storage element can take the form of a battery or capacitor in step 3455. can. The storage element can always maintain an appropriate charge level to deliver continuous power to the load. In addition, the storage element can provide the appropriate power or voltage to the communication subsystem.

[0458] In step 3457, the voltage or power generated by the storage element can be increased by the output boost transducer to meet the impedance and power requirements of the load. In one embodiment, the microcontroller can set up a current limit in the output boost transducer and adjust the amount of power delivered to the load according to the application.

[0459] After the second boost conversion, in step 3459, the output boost converter is now suitable for charging or powering an electronic device that can be operatively coupled to the receiver. Within the range of electrical specifications, stable and continuous power or voltage can be supplied to the load.

[0460] The microcontroller may control a switch for suspending or resuming the delivery of power or voltage in a load in accordance with the terms of service contracted by the user of wireless power transfer. For example, if wireless power transfer is a service provided to the user of the receiver, the microcontroller may suspend or resume powering or charging the electronic device according to the status of the user's contract through the use of a switch. .. In addition, the microcontroller can adjust the operation of the switch based on the charging or power supply priorities established for one or more electronic devices. For example, a microcontroller compares an electronic device coupled to a receiver to an electronic device coupled to a suitable receiver that may require charging and may have a higher priority for charging. If you have a low power supply or charging priority, you can open the switch. In this case, the transmitter can direct the RF wave towards a receiver coupled to an electronic device with a higher charge or power supply priority.

6. Embedded receiver
[0461] FIG. 20A shows an embodiment in which device 2000A, which can represent a regular telephone, computer or other device, can include embedded receiver 2020A. The device 2000A can also include a power supply, a communication component 2030A, and a processor. The receiver 2020A can utilize pocket formation to power the power source from the device 2000A. Further, the receiver 2020A is a built-in communication component 2030A of the device 2000A for communicating with a given transmitter based on the requirements provided by the processor such as battery level, user-defined charging profile, etc. (eg, Bluetooth (eg, Bluetooth (eg, Bluetooth)). Registered trademark)) can be used.

7. Battery with built-in receiver
[0462] FIG. 20B shows another embodiment in which device 2000B can include a battery with embedded receiver 2020B. The battery can receive power wirelessly through pocket formation and can be charged through its own built-in receiver 2020B. The battery can function as a supply unit for power supply or as a backup supply unit. This configuration can be advantageous in that the battery does not need to be removed for charging. This can be particularly useful in game controllers or in gaming devices where batteries, especially AA or AAA can be continuously replaced.

8. External communication component
[0463] FIG. 20C shows an alternative embodiment 2000C in which the receiver 2020C and the communication component 2030C can be included in external hardware that can be attached to the device. The hardware can take the appropriate form, such as a case that can be placed in a telephone, computer, remote controller, etc., which can be connected through an appropriate interface such as a universal serial bus (USB). In other embodiments, the hardware can be printed on a flexible film, which can then be attached to an electronic device or otherwise attached. This option can be advantageous because it can be produced at low cost and can be easily integrated into a variety of devices. As in previous embodiments, the communication component 2030C can be included in hardware capable of providing communication to transmitters or electronic devices in general.

9. Receiver casing or housing that connects to USB
[0464] FIG. 21A shows hardware in the form of a case that includes a receiver 2102A that can be connected to a smartphone and / or any other electronic device via a flex cable or USB. In other embodiments, the housing or case can be a computer case, a telephone case and / or a camera case, among other such options.

10. PCB on print film
[0465] FIG. 21B shows the hardware in the form of a printed film or printed flexible circuit board (PCB) that may include multiple print receivers 2102B. The print film can be attached to an electronic device or otherwise attached, and can be connected through a suitable interface such as USB. Print film may be advantageous in that sections can be cut out from it to meet specific electronic device sizes and / or requirements. The efficiency of wireless power transfer and the amount of power that can be delivered (using pocket formation) can be a function of the total number of antenna elements used in a given receiver and transmitter system. For example, to deliver about 1 watt at about 15 feet, the receiver can include about 80 antenna elements, while the transmitter can include about 256 antenna elements. Another identical wireless power transfer system (about 1 watt at about 15 feet) can include a receiver with about 40 antenna elements and a transmitter with about 512 antenna elements. Reducing the number of antenna elements in the receiver by half may require doubling the number of antennas in the transmitter. In some cases, it may be cost effective to have more antenna elements in the transmitter than in the receiver. On the other hand, as long as the transmitter has at least two antenna elements (by placing more antenna elements in the receiver than in the transmitter), the opposite can be achieved.

II. Antenna hardware and features A. Interval configuration
[0466] FIG. 22 shows internal hardware in which a receiver 2220 can be used to receive wireless power transfer in an electronic device 2252 (eg, a smartphone). In some embodiments, the electronic device 2252 can include a receiver 2220 that can be incorporated around the inner edge of the case 2254 (eg, smartphone case) of the electronic device 2252. In another embodiment, the receiver 2220 can be mounted so as to cover the back of the case 2254. The case 2254 can be one or more of a smartphone cover, a laptop cover, a camera cover, a GPS cover, a game controller cover and / or a tablet cover, among other such options. Case 2254 can be made from plastic, rubber and / or any other suitable material.

The receiver 2220 can include an array of antenna elements 2224 strategically distributed over the grid area shown in FIG. The case 2254 may include an array of antenna elements 2224 located around the edge and / or along the back of the case 2254 for optimal reception. The number, spacing and type of antenna elements 2224 can be calculated according to the design, size and / or type of electronic device 2252. In some embodiments, there may be a spacing (eg, 1 mm-4 mm) and / or metamaterial between the case 2254 containing the antenna element 2224 and the electronic device 2252. Spacing and / or metamaterials can provide additional gain for RF signals. In some embodiments, metamaterials can be used in creating multi-layer PCBs to be mounted within Case 2254.

B. Metamaterial
[0468] Internal hardware can take the form of printed film 2256, and / or flexible PCBs are connected with multiple printed antenna elements 2224 (connected in series, in parallel, or in combination with each other). It can include different components such as rectifier and power converter elements. The print film 2256 can be attached to or otherwise attached to any suitable electronic device such as electronic device 2252 and / or tablet. The print film 2256 can be connected through any suitable interface such as a flexible cable 2258. Print film 2256 can offer several advantages, one of which is the ability to cut sections from print film 2256 to meet specific smart mobile device sizes and / or requirements. can do. According to one embodiment, the spacing between the antenna elements 2224 for the receiver 2220 can range from about 2 nm to about 12 nm, most suitable being about 7 nm. Further, in some embodiments, the optimum amount of antenna elements 2224 that can be used in the receiver 2220 for electronic devices 2252 such as smartphones can range from about 20 to about 30. On the other hand, the amount of antenna element 2224 in the receiver 2220 can vary according to the design and size of the electronic device 2252. The antenna element 2224 can be made of different conductive materials such as copper, gold and silver, among others. Further, the antenna element 2224 can be printed, etched or laminated on any suitable non-conductive flexible substrate such as a flexible PCB, among others. The disclosed configurations and orientations of the antenna element 2224 can exhibit better reception, efficiency and performance of wireless charging.

C internal hardware
[0469] FIG. 32 shows the internal hardware 3200, where the receiver 3220 can be used for wireless power transfer in a smartphone 3252. FIG. 32 shows a first embodiment in which the smartphone 3252 can include a receiver 3220 built around the inner edge of the case of the smartphone 3252. The receiver 3220 can include an array of antenna elements 3224 strategically distributed over the grid area. A receiver can refer to a device that includes at least one antenna element, at least one rectifier circuit, and at least one power converter that can utilize an energy pocket to power or charge a client device. can.

[0470] The number and type of antenna elements 3224 can be calculated according to the design of the smartphone 3252. When charging an electronic device, such as a telephone (smartphone) or laptop computer, an initial high current that can exceed the minimum voltage required to activate the operation of the electronic switching mode DC / DC converter may be required. be. In such cases, a capacitor (not shown) can be added to the output of receiver 3220 to provide the additional energy required. It can then provide low power, eg, 1/80 of the total initial power, while still accumulating charge on the phone or laptop. Charging can refer to the conversion of RF energy into electrical energy by a receiver using an antenna. Here, electrical energy can be transmitted to an electrically connected client device through an electrical circuit connection from the receiver, where the transmitted energy can either charge its own battery or charge its own battery, depending on the device. It can be used to power its own functions and / or to make any combination. A client device can refer to any device in a wireless power transfer system that receives wireless power from a wireless transmitter through an electrical connection to the wireless power receiver. The client device may be a mobile electronic device such as a computer, laptop computer, smartphone, remote control for an electronic toy, television or other consumer device, or any electronic or electrical device that is powered wirelessly. Can be done.

[0471] Finally, the communication component can be included in the receiver 3220 to communicate with the transmitter or other electronic device. A transmitter can refer to a device that includes a chip capable of generating two or more RF signals, at least one RF signal being phase-shifted and gain-tuned with respect to the other RF signals. Virtually all of them pass through one or more RF antennas, thereby directing the focused RF signal to the target.

[0472] Different antenna, rectifier or power converter arrangements for the receiver are possible as described in the following embodiments. In particular, internal hardware 3200 in the form of printed film 3256 or flexible printed circuit board (PCB) includes multiple printed antenna elements 3224 (connected in series, in parallel or in combination with each other), rectifier 206 and power. It can include different components such as converter 3229 elements. The print film 3256 can be attached to or otherwise attached to any electronic device such as a smartphone 3252 or tablet and can be connected through any interface such as a flexible cable. Print film 3256 can offer several advantages, one of which is the ability to cut sections from it to meet specific smart mobile device sizes and / or requirements.

[0473] According to one above, the spacing between the antenna elements 3224 for the receiver 3220 can range from 5 nm to 12 nm. On the other hand, the amount of antennas in the receiver 3220 can vary depending on the design and size of the smartphone 3252. The antenna element 3224 can be made of different conductive materials such as copper, gold and silver, among others. Further, the antenna element 3224 can be printed, etched or laminated on any non-conductive flexible substrate such as a flexible printed circuit board (PCB), among others. The disclosed configurations and orientations of the antenna element 3224 can exhibit better reception, efficiency and performance of wireless charging.

[0474] The method description and process flow diagram above are provided as mere explanatory examples and require or imply that the steps of the various embodiments must be performed in the order presented. Not intended to be. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the steps in the above embodiments can be performed in any order. Words such as "next" and "next" are not intended to limit the order of the steps, and these words are used solely to guide the reader through the description of the method. Process flow diagrams may describe operations as a continuous process, but many of the operations can be performed in parallel or simultaneously. In addition, the order of operations can be rearranged. Processes can correspond to methods, functions, procedures, subroutines, subprograms, and the like. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination can correspond to returning the function to the calling function or the main function.

[0475] The various descriptive logical blocks, modules, circuits and algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein shall be performed as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination thereof. Can be done. To articulate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various descriptive components, blocks, modules, circuits and steps have usually been described in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends on the specific use and design constraints imposed on the entire system. One of ordinary skill in the art can perform the described functions in various ways for a particular application, but decisions of such practice should be construed as causing a deviation from the scope of the invention. do not have.

[0476] The embodiments implemented in computer software can be implemented in software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages or any combination thereof. A code segment or machine-executable instruction can represent any combination of procedure, function, subprogram, program, routine, subroutine, module, software package, class, or instruction, data structure or program statement. A code segment can be coupled to another code segment or hardware circuit by passing and / or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters or memory content. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. can be passed, transferred, or transmitted via any suitable means, including memory sharing, message sharing, token passing, network transmission, and the like.

[0477] The actual software code or specialized control hardware used to implement these systems and methods is not limiting the invention. As such, the behavior and behavior of the system and method shall be described without reference to specific software code, and the software and control hardware shall be designed to implement the system and method in accordance with the description herein. Is understood to be possible.

[0478] When implemented in software, a function may be stored as one or more instructions or codes on a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium or processor-readable storage medium. The steps of the method or algorithm disclosed herein can be embedded in a processor executable software module that can reside on a computer readable storage medium or a processor readable storage medium. Non-transient computer-readable or processor-readable media include both computer storage media and tangible storage media that facilitate the transfer of computer programs from one location to another. The non-temporary processor-readable storage medium can be any available medium that can be made accessible by the computer. By way of example, but not by limitation, such non-temporary processor readable media are RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage device, or in the form of instructions or data structures. Can include any other tangible storage medium that can store the desired program code in and can be accessed by a computer or processor. Discs, as used herein, include compact discs (CDs), laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVDs), floppy discs and Blu-ray discs, where discs are used. A (disk) typically reproduces data magnetically, and a disc uses a laser to optically reproduce data. The above combinations should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media. In addition, the behavior of the method or algorithm exists as one or any combination or set of codes and / or instructions on a non-transitory processor-readable medium and / or computer-readable medium that can be incorporated into a computer program product. Can be done.

[0479] The above description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to allow any person skilled in the art to create or use the present invention. Various changes to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein apply to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. be able to. For this reason, the invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments presented herein, and is most consistent with the appended claims and the principles and novel features disclosed herein. Given a wide range.

[0480] Various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed, but other aspects and embodiments are expected. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed are for illustration purposes and are not intended to be limiting, and the true scope and intent is set forth in the appended claims.

Claims (23)

A method for wireless power transfer
Receiving by a transmitter, including communication components, multiple antennas, and controls, located in the housing.
The first control signal of the first frequency within the radio frequency range from the first electronic device coupled to the first receiver via the communication component, and the second reception via the communication component. The second control signal of the second frequency within the radio frequency range is received from the second electronic device coupled to the machine, and the first control signal is the first electronic device. The second control signal contains information used to identify the position of the second electronic device, and includes information used to identify the position of the second electronic device.
Based on the position of the first electronic device and the position of the second electronic device by the control device of the transmitter, (i) the first electronic device is attached to the plurality of antennas of the transmitter. A smaller number of antennas in the first group than all of our antennas, and (ii) a second group of antennas in said second electronic device with a smaller number of antennas than all of the antennas of the transmitter. The antennas of the group are assigned, and the antenna of the first group and the antenna of the second group are separate.
By the control device of the transmitter, based on the first control signal, direction, phase, gain, and a first set of waveform characteristics including the amplitude, the radio frequency to the first electronic device a first set of waveform characteristics for transmitting the third power transmission signal frequencies in the range, based on the second control signal, direction, phase, gain, and the second set comprising the amplitude a waveform feature, the fourth of the second set of waveform characteristics for transmitting power transmission signal frequency within the radio frequency range to said second electronic device, to determine, first The frequency of is different from the third frequency,
Via a plurality of antennas of the first group of antennas, by using the waveform feature of the first set, the first power transmission signal to the position of the first electronic device, the plurality of antennas through the antenna of the second group, using the waveform feature of the second set, the second power transmission signal to the position of the second electronic device, and a transmitting,
Each of the first power transfer signals interferes strongly with at least one other signal of the first power transfer signal at the position of the first electronic device.
Each of the second power transfer signals interferes strongly with at least one other signal of the second power transfer signal at the position of the second electronic device .
The radio frequency range is a method that spans between 900 MHz and 5.8 GHz. The transmission is
The first group of antennas and the second group of antennas transmit the first power transmission signal and the second power transmission signal substantially simultaneously, respectively, or
The method of claim 1, comprising transmitting power transmission signals substantially alternately by the plurality of antennas of the first group and the plurality of antennas of the second group. The second control signal is received after the first control signal and is received.
The method of claim 1, wherein after the first group of antennas is assigned to the first electronic device, the second group of antennas is assigned to the second electronic device. By the transmitter, determining the first set of waveform characteristics,
The transmitter uses the first waveform feature to the first receiver from the first antenna of the plurality of antennas in the first group to the position of the first electronic device. Sending the power transmission signal of 1 and
Receiving the first voltage level data based on the first power transmission signal from the first receiver by the transmitter, and
The transmitter uses a second waveform feature to the first receiver from the first antenna of the plurality of antennas in the first group to the position of the first electronic device. Sending a second power transfer signal and
Receiving the second voltage level data based on the second power transmission signal from the first receiver by the transmitter, and
Based on the comparison of the first voltage level data and said second voltage level data, in the first set of waveform characteristics for transmitting power transmission signal to the position of the first electronic device, Determining whether to use the first waveform feature or the second waveform feature.
The method according to claim 1, wherein the method comprises. By the transmitter, determining a second set of waveform characteristics,
A third using the third waveform feature from the first antenna of the plurality of antennas of the second group to the position of the second electronic device to the second receiver by the transmitter. Sending power transmission signals and
Receiving the third voltage level data based on the third power transmission signal from the second receiver by the transmitter, and
A fourth using the fourth waveform feature from the first antenna of the plurality of antennas of the second group to the position of the second electronic device to the first receiver by the transmitter. Sending power transmission signals and
Receiving the fourth voltage level data based on the fourth power transmission signal from the first receiver by the transmitter, and
Based on the comparison of the third voltage level data and said fourth voltage level data, in the second set of waveform characteristics for transmitting power transmission signal to said position of said second electronic device, The method of claim 4, comprising determining whether to use the third waveform feature or the fourth waveform feature. A comparison of the first voltage level data with respect to the second voltage data shows that the amount of power transmitted from the first power transmission signal to the first electronic device is from the second power transmission signal. compared to the power level transmitted to the first electronic device, indicating the greater, the first waveform features are used in the waveform characteristics of the first set,
A comparison of the third voltage level data with respect to the fourth voltage data shows that the amount of power transmitted to the second electronic device from the third power transmission signal is the amount of power transmitted from the fourth power transmission signal. compared to the power level transmitted to the second electronic device, indicating the greater, the third waveform feature is used in the waveform characteristics of the second set, according to claim 5 the method of. The communication component is selected from the group including Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® low energy, Wi-Fi, frequency modulation (FM) radio, near field communication (NFC), and ZigBee®. The method of claim 1, wherein the first and second control signals are received using a wireless communication protocol. Both the information used to identify the location of the first electronic device and the information used to identify the second electronic device include a received signal strength measurement (RSSI). The method according to claim 1. The method of claim 1, wherein the transmitter controller comprises a microprocessor operably coupled to the communication component and to a circuit for controlling the plurality of antennas. The method according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of antennas are a planar antenna, a patch antenna, or a dipole antenna. The method according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of antennas are vertically polarized, horizontally polarized, circularly polarized, left-polarized, or right-polarized. Transmitter for wireless power transfer, located in the housing,
With multiple antennas configured to transmit power transfer signals,
The first control signal of the first frequency within the radio frequency range from the first electronic device coupled to the first receiver, and the radio frequency from the second electronic device coupled to the second receiver. A communication component configured to receive a second control signal of a second frequency within range, said first control signal used to identify the location of said first electronic device. The second control signal contains information that is used to identify the location of the second electronic device.
The communication component and a control device operably coupled to a circuit for controlling the plurality of antennas.
The control device is
Based on the position of the first electronic device and the position of the second electronic device, (i) the number of antennas of the transmitter to the first electronic device is smaller than that of all the antennas of the plurality of antennas. The first group of antennas and (ii) the second group of antennas, which is less than all of the antennas of the transmitter of the transmitter, are assigned to the second electronic device. The antennas of the first group and the antennas of the second group are separate and
Based on the first control signal, direction, phase, gain, and a first set of waveform features including amplitude, power of a third frequency within the radio frequency range to said first electronic device a first set of waveform characteristics for transmitting the transmission signal, based on the second control signal, direction, phase, gain, and a second set of waveform characteristics including the amplitude, the first determining a second set of waveform characteristics for transmitting a fourth power transmission signal frequency within the radio frequency range to a second electronic device, said first frequency is different from the third frequency And
Via a plurality of antennas of the first group of antennas, by using the waveform feature of the first set, the first power transmission signal to the position of the first electronic device, and a plurality of through the antenna of the second group of antennas, by using the waveform feature of the second set, the second power transmission signal is adapted to transmit to said position of said second electronic device,
Each of the first power transfer signals interferes strongly with at least one other signal of the first power transfer signal at the position of the first electronic device.
Each of the second power transfer signals interferes strongly with at least one other signal of the second power transfer signal at the position of the second electronic device .
The radio frequency range is a transmitter between 900 MHz and 5.8 GHz. The transmitter
The first group of antennas and the second group of antennas transmit the first power transmission signal and the second power transmission signal substantially simultaneously, respectively, or
12. The transmitter according to claim 12 , further configured to transmit power transmission signals substantially alternately by the plurality of antennas of the first group and the plurality of antennas of the second group. .. The transmitter
Receiving the second control signal after the first control signal and
After the antenna of the first group is assigned to the first electronic device, the antenna of the second group is assigned to the second electronic device.
13. The transmitter according to claim 13, further configured to perform the above. The transmitter
A first power transfer signal to the first receiver using the first waveform feature from the first antenna of the plurality of antennas in the first group to the position of the first electronic device. To send and
Receiving the first voltage level data based on the first power transmission signal from the first receiver, and
Second power transmission to the first receiver using the second waveform feature from the first antenna of the plurality of antennas in the first group to the position of the first electronic device. Sending a signal and
Receiving the second voltage level data based on the second power transmission signal from the first receiver, and
Based on the comparison of the first voltage level data and said second voltage level data, in the first set of waveform characteristics for transmitting power transmission signal to the position of the first electronic device, Determining whether to use the first waveform feature or the second waveform feature.
12. The transmitter according to claim 12, further configured to perform the above. The transmitter
A third power transmission signal is transmitted to the second receiver using the third waveform feature from the first antenna of the plurality of antennas in the second group to the position of the second electronic device. To do and
Receiving the third voltage level data based on the third power transmission signal from the second receiver, and
A fourth power transmission signal is transmitted to the first receiver using the fourth waveform feature from the first antenna of the plurality of antennas in the second group to the position of the second electronic device. To do and
Receiving the fourth voltage level data based on the fourth power transmission signal from the first receiver, and
Based on the comparison of the third voltage level data and said fourth voltage level data, in the second set of waveform characteristics for transmitting power transmission signal to said position of said second electronic device, Determining whether to use the third waveform feature or the fourth waveform feature.
15. The transmitter according to claim 15, further configured to perform the above. The transmitter
A comparison of the first voltage level data with respect to the second voltage data shows that the amount of power transmitted from the first power transmission signal to the first electronic device is from the second power transmission signal. compared to the power level transmitted to the first electronic device, indicating the greater, and using said first waveform feature in said first set of waveform characteristics,
A comparison of the third voltage level data with respect to the fourth voltage data shows that the amount of power transmitted from the third power transmission signal to the second electronic device is from the fourth power transmission signal. and it was compared to the power level transmitted to the second electronic device, used in more cases indicate that large, the third of the waveform feature second set of waveform characteristics,
16. The transmitter according to claim 16, further configured to do so. The communication component is selected from the group including Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® low energy, Wi-Fi, frequency modulation (FM) radio, near field communication (NFC), and ZigBee®. The transmitter according to claim 12 , wherein the first and second control signals are received using a wireless communication protocol. Both the information used to identify the location of the first electronic device and the information used to identify the second electronic device include a received signal strength measurement (RSSI). The transmitter according to claim 12. 12. The transmitter according to claim 12 , wherein the transmitter control device comprises a microprocessor operably coupled to the communication component and to a circuit for controlling the plurality of antennas. The transmitter according to claim 12 , wherein the plurality of antennas are a planar antenna, a patch antenna, or a dipole antenna. The transmitter according to claim 12 , wherein the plurality of antennas are vertically polarized, horizontally polarized, circularly polarized, left-polarized, or right-polarized. A non-temporary computer-readable medium that stores one or more programs configured to be executed by one or more processors of a transmitter, including communication components, multiple antennas, and controls, located in a housing. There,
The one or more programs, when executed by one or more processors, have instructions that cause the transmitter to perform a step.
The step is
The first control signal of the first frequency within the radio frequency range from the first electronic device coupled to the first receiver via the communication component, and the second reception via the communication component. The second control signal of the second frequency within the radio frequency range is received from the second electronic device coupled to the machine, and the first control signal is the first electronic device. The second control signal contains information used to identify the position of the second electronic device, and includes information used to identify the position of the second electronic device.
Based on the position of the first electronic device and the position of the second electronic device by the control device of the transmitter, (i) the first electronic device is attached to the plurality of antennas of the transmitter. A smaller number of antennas in the first group than all of our antennas, and (ii) a second group of antennas in said second electronic device with a smaller number of antennas than all of the antennas of the transmitter. The antennas of the group are assigned, and the antenna of the first group and the antenna of the second group are separate.
By the control device of the transmitter, based on the first control signal, direction, phase, gain, and a first set of waveform characteristics including the amplitude, the radio frequency to the first electronic device a first set of waveform characteristics for transmitting the third power transmission signal frequencies in the range, based on the second control signal, direction, phase, gain, and the second set comprising the amplitude a waveform feature, the fourth of the second set of waveform characteristics for transmitting power transmission signal frequency within the radio frequency range to said second electronic device, to determine, first The frequency of is different from the third frequency,
Via a plurality of antennas of the first group of antennas, by using the waveform feature of the first set, the first power transmission signal to the position of the first electronic device, the plurality of antennas through the antenna of the second group, using the waveform feature of the second set, the second power transmission signal to the position of the second electronic device, and a transmitting,
Each of the first power transfer signals interferes strongly with at least one other signal of the first power transfer signal at the position of the first electronic device.
Each of the second power transfer signals interferes strongly with at least one other signal of the second power transfer signal at the position of the second electronic device .
The radio frequency range is a non-transient computer readable medium between 900 MHz and 5.8 GHz.

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