JP7419417B2 - Wireless power charging system and method via multiple receiving devices - Google Patents

Description

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

BACKGROUND Electronic devices such as laptop computers, smartphones, portable gaming devices, tablets, or others require electrical power to operate. It is generally understood that electronic devices are charged frequently, at least once a day, or more than once a day for frequently used or power-hungry electronic devices. Such tasks can be tedious and burdensome for some users. For example, users may need to carry a charger with them in case their electronic device runs out of power. Furthermore, some users must find an available power source to connect their electronic devices, which can be time consuming. Finally, some users must plug their electronic devices into a wall or some other power source so that they can be charged. However, such operations may render the electronic device unusable or non-portable during charging.

Some conventional solutions include inductive charging pads, which may use magnetic induction coils or resonant coils. As understood in the art, such solutions require that the electronic device (i) be placed at a specific location on the inductive charging pad, and (ii) exposed to an electromagnetic field having a specific orientation. Therefore, it still requires being placed in a specific orientation for power supply. Additionally, inductive charging units require large coils in both devices (i.e., the charger and the device being charged by the charger), which may be undesirable for reasons of size and cost, for example. There is. Therefore, if an electronic device is not placed in the correct orientation on an inductive charging pad, it may not be fully charged or may not receive a charge. Additionally, users may become frustrated if their electronic devices do not charge as expected after using the charging mat, which may impair the reliability of the charging mat.

Accordingly, there is a need for economical applications of charging surfaces that enable low power wireless charging without requiring specific orientation to provide sufficient charging.

Overview In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, the method comprising applying an RF signal to a charging surface having a plurality of unit cells to charge a battery from at least one of the unit cells. The method includes having RF energy present within a unit cell of a charging surface to charge an electronic device in response to positioning an antenna of the electronic device within near-field distance. The unit cell may be an at least partially periodic structure, and the periodic structure may be locally periodic while being flexible as a function of position within the periodic structure.

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

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, the method comprising applying an RF signal to a plurality of unit cells of a charging surface to transmit the RF energy signal internal to the unit cells of the charging surface. receiving an RF energy signal at an antenna of the electronic device when the antenna of the electronic device is placed within near field distance from at least one of the unit cells; charging a battery of the electronic device in response to receiving the electronic device.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a system that includes an RF circuit configured to generate an RF signal and a unit cell configured to receive the RF signal and, if a receiving device is not present. an adaptive coupling comprising a plurality of unit cells configured such that an RF energy signal is confined/stored within the cell and to leak energy when the receiver is within the near field region of the surface. A surface (here, a charging surface). The receiving circuit of the electronic device to be charged is configured such that when the antenna of this electronic device is placed within near-field distance from one or more of the unit cells (of the coupling surface), the antenna of the electronic device is The electronic device may be configured to charge the electronic device in response to receiving the energy signal.

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

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

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging a device that includes applying an RF signal to a plurality of unit cells of a charging surface to transmit the RF energy signal into the interior of the unit cells of the charging surface. and the antenna of the electronic device is placed within near field distance from at least one of the plurality of unit cells. filtering to generate an RF energy signal for charging an electronic device.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a charging surface device that includes a circuit configured to generate an RF signal, a circuit configured to receive the RF signal, and one of the unit cells. or a plurality of unit cells configured to have an RF energy signal present within the plurality of unit cells and an antenna of the electronic device disposed within near field distance of at least one of the plurality of unit cells. a harmonic screen filter element configured to filter the RF energy signal to charge the electronic device in response.

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

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, the method comprising: an antenna configured with a bandwidth including a center frequency and used to communicate a wireless signal; , receiving a wireless charging signal operating at its center frequency, and provided that the wireless charging signal is received from a charging surface located within a near-field distance from the antenna, and the antenna receives power above a threshold level. and, in response to the determination that the wireless charging signal is being received, routing the received wireless charging signal to a rectifier to convert the wireless charging signal to a power signal.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a system comprising: a receiving circuit configured to determine power from a wireless charging signal received by an antenna used to communicate the wireless signal; It is noted that the wireless charging signal is received by the antenna from a charging surface located within a near field distance of the antenna, and a comparison circuit configured to compare the power to a threshold level and a comparison circuit configured to compare the power to a threshold level. a rectifier circuit configured to rectify to produce a rectified signal; a voltage converter configured to convert the rectified signal to a voltage for charging a rechargeable battery; a switching circuit configured to route the received wireless charging signal to the rectifier if the level is exceeded.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, the method comprising: receiving a signal indicative of a request to charge the electronic device; and responsive to receiving the signal. applying the RF signal to a plurality of unit cells of the charging surface to cause the RF energy signal to be present within the unit cells of the charging surface for charging the electronic device; leaking RF energy signals from the plurality of unit cells of the charging surface to the antenna of the electronic device when the antenna is placed within near field distance to at least one of the plurality of unit cells; include.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a charging surface device comprising: a control circuit configured to receive a signal indicative of a request to charge an electronic device; and a control circuit configured to each receive an RF energy signal. When a plurality of patch antennas configured to generate a unit and an antenna of the electronic device are tuned to the center frequency and positioned within near field distance of at least one of the plurality of unit cells. a plurality of unit cells configured to leak RF energy signals from the cells.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, the method comprising: generating a low power RF energy signal within a unit cell of a charging surface; leaking low power RF energy signals from the unit cells of the charging surface to an antenna of the electronic device when placed within near field distance and sensing low power RF energy signals within the unit cells of the charging surface. and comparing a low power RF energy signal in a unit cell of the charging surface to a threshold level; and generating a signal.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a charging surface apparatus that includes a feeding element, such as a patch antenna, that may be configured to generate a low power RF energy signal, and a feeding element, here a patch antenna. a unit cell containing a low-power RF energy signal when the electronic device's antenna is not located within near-field distance from the unit cell; a unit cell configured to leak a low power RF energy signal when placed within a distance of a control circuit configured to compare the low power RF energy signal to a threshold and, if the low power RF energy signal is less than the threshold, the patch antenna generates a next low power RF energy signal that is stored within the unit cell; ,including.

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

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for charging an electronic device, the method comprising applying an RF signal to a plurality of unit cells of a charging surface to transmit the RF energy signal within the unit cells of the charging surface. and transmitting an RF energy signal from one or more of the unit cells to the surface of the charging surface and a metal of an electronic device located within near field distance from one or more of the unit cells. and leaking into a gap formed between the parts so that an antenna of the electronic device receives an RF energy signal to charge the electronic device.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a charging surface device that includes a circuit configured to generate an RF signal and a plurality of unit cells, the plurality of unit cells each receiving an RF signal. and leaking an RF energy signal from one or more of the unit cells into the cavity/gap formed between the surface of the charging surface and the metal part of the electronic device to to charge an electronic device located within near field distance from one or more of the unit cells by causing an antenna of the device to receive an RF energy signal to charge the electronic device; , configured to cause an RF energy signal to be present within the unit cell.

In one embodiment, a system for wireless power transfer includes a first device, a first antenna configured to receive one or more RF signals from a charging surface; a second antenna configured to transmit and receive one or more RF signals to one or more devices proximate to the first device; a first antenna configured to receive one or more RF signals from the first device; and a first antenna configured to receive one or more RF signals from the first device; a second device configured to be charged in response to receiving one or more RF signals from the device.

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

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

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

1 illustrates an example embodiment of an electronic device disposed on an example charging surface that generates an RF energy signal to charge the electronic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary table including a surface on which electronic devices are placed, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary charging surface for generating RF energy signals to charge an electronic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an exemplary charging surface in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. 3 is a flowchart illustrating more detailed operation of an exemplary charging surface in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. 1 is a schematic diagram of an example electronic device for receiving RF energy signals generated by a charging surface, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an example electronic device in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a circuit representing a charging surface when no electronic devices are placed within near-field distance; 1 shows a schematic diagram of a circuit representing a charging surface when an electronic device is placed within near-field distance; FIG. Figure 2 shows a schematic model of an equivalent circuit with two states of energy flow: without and with electronic devices placed within near-field distance of a charging surface. 4C shows an alternative representation of the schematic model of FIG. 4C; FIG. FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of an exemplary embodiment of an antenna portion of a charging surface that includes two substrate layers, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of a power feed portion (i.e., a slot made in the ground plane of the surface) of a charging surface that includes two substrate layers, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 5B is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a unit cell used for the antenna portion of the charging surface shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 5C is an overhead view of the exemplary embodiment of the unit cell shown in FIG. 5C, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. FIG. 3 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of an antenna portion of a charging surface formed using one substrate layer, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of an antenna portion of a charging surface formed using one substrate layer, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 6B illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a unit cell that includes a portion of the antenna portion of the charging surface shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6C illustrates an overhead view of the exemplary embodiment of the unit cell shown in FIG. 6C, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary charging surface including a plurality of unit cells. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of an electronic device located within near-field distance from a charging surface, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 7B shows an example electronic schematic diagram of the electronic device of FIG. 7A; FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary RF energy signal resonance located between an electronic device having a metal surface and a surface of a charging device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. FIG. 3 shows a more detailed schematic diagram of a charging surface providing a resonant coupler for charging an electronic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 shows a more detailed schematic diagram of a charging surface providing a resonant coupler for charging an electronic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 shows a more detailed schematic diagram of a charging surface providing a resonant coupler for charging an electronic device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 4 illustrates a flowchart of an example method for charging an electronic device using a charging surface, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the electronic device communicates a signal indicating a request to charge or otherwise mated with a charging surface. 1 illustrates a flowchart of an example method for charging an electronic device using a charging surface when the electronic device does not communicate a signal indicating a request to charge, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a charging surface unit cell having a harmonic screen filter element disposed on or above the top surface of the unit cell. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a unit cell of a charging surface having a harmonic screen filter element (although the harmonic filter screen may be made from periodic unit cells); FIG. The elements are placed on or above the top surface of the unit cell. FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a charging surface unit cell having a harmonic screen filter element disposed within a substrate layer of the unit cell. FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a charging surface unit cell having a harmonic screen filter element disposed within a substrate layer of the unit cell. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating wireless power transfer between multiple devices according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating wireless power transfer between multiple devices according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of wireless power transfer between multiple devices, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

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

In some embodiments, electronic device 104 may include any electronic device that includes an RF power conversion component as described herein. For example, the electronic device may be any of a variety of portable technologies such as a tablet, laptop, mobile phone, PDA, or wearable device such as a smart watch, fitness device, headset, or the principles described herein. It may be of any other portable, mobile, or other electronic device technology that is rechargeable or operable using.

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

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

In the unit cell configuration of the charging surface 102, the unit cell is configured such that, prior to the electronic device 104 being placed within the near field of the charging surface 102, a frequency signal generated within and propagating within the substrate of the unit cell is substantially The charging surface 102 may be periodically spaced and sized so that the charging surface 102 can be retained within the charging surface 102. That is, when the antenna of the electronic device 104 is placed within the near field of the charging surface 102, the charging surface A change in the boundary conditions occurs (see FIGS. 4A and 4B).

The surface can be designed such that electromagnetic tuning results in enabling leakage at certain unit cells that are within near-field distance of the antenna of the charging surface 102. When properly "tuned", the RF energy signal is retained within the substrate of the unit cells of the charging surface 102, with no or minimal leakage. If there is no antenna within the near field of charging surface 102, the RF energy signal will be reflected from the surface of charging surface 102, resulting in no or minimal leakage. Also, when the antenna of electronic device 104 is in the near field of charging surface 102, when properly "tuned" the surface properties of charging surface 102 change and the signal is sent to the unit at the location of the antenna of electronic device 104. It can be aligned with a slot dipole or other feature of the cell and cause leakage to occur at that location. If a different frequency is to be used, dimensional changes may be made to the unit cells of the charging surface 102 to accommodate this different frequency and avoid leakage. As an example, if higher frequencies are used, it is necessary to include smaller unit cells to provide similar performance.

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

As shown, antenna layer 116 provides the same or similar structure as charging surface 102 such that an antenna tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal is placed within near-field distance of charging surface 102. In response to this, an RF energy signal can be caused to leak from the charging surface 102. In one embodiment, rather than the entire charging surface 112 being configured to operably charge an electronic device, a portion of the charging surface 112 performs the charging function, as described herein. It may be configured to do so.

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

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

In some embodiments, a power amplifier (not shown) and a gain control circuit (not shown) may be applied to each antenna 204. However, given the number of antennas that may be used within the charging surface 102, the RF signal (charging Using one or more power amplifiers to amplify the RF signals provided to the surface 102 or generated within the charging surface 102 allows for reduced circuitry and lower cost. In one particular embodiment, four RF input ports (not shown) may be used to power the antenna 204 of the charging surface 102. In the design of charging surface 102, a single RF input port or RF generator internal to charging surface 102 can support a particular number or ratio of antennas 204.

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

In one embodiment, in response to the communication component receiving a wireless signal (e.g., a Bluetooth® signal) from an electronic device to be charged by the charging surface 102, the microcontroller 208 receives a digital signal. 214 may be used to responsively cause communication component 210 to generate an RF energy signal 216 that is to be applied to antenna 204 . In an alternative embodiment, the communication component may have its own RF circuitry and antenna to receive wireless signals, and the microcontroller causes RF energy to be applied to the antenna for charging. In such a configuration, the RF port (see FIGS. 5B and 6B) is electrically conductive so that the RF signal is communicated to communication component 210 for processing and communication to antenna 204. You can donate your body. In yet another embodiment, a separate device, such as a battery pack, a protective case for a mobile device, or any other device that may be used to charge or power an electronic device, receives the wireless signal from the charging surface 102. may include RF circuitry and antennas for

In one embodiment, a separate antenna (not shown) receives RF signals and communicates the received RF signals to communication component 210 for processing and/or for routing directly to antenna 204. It may be configured as follows. The use of a separate antenna allows for remote charging from a far-field transmitter that transmits an RF charging signal to the charging surface 102 to charge or power the electronic device in a near-field manner, as described herein. Surface 102 may be operable.

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

FIG. 2B is a flowchart 250 illustrating the general operation of charging surface 102 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. At step 252, charging surface 102 generates an RF energy signal within one or more of the unit cells of charging surface 102. The unit cell may be configured such that the antenna of the electronic device 104 is not located within near-field distance of either of the unit cell's antennas 204 or the antenna of the electronic device 104 is tuned to receive the RF energy signal. If not configured or otherwise configured, substantially all of the RF energy signal used to charge the electronic device 104 (e.g., at a certain leakage threshold, such as −30 dB below the RF energy signal) (less than). At step 254, the unit cell determines that the antenna of the electronic device 104 is (i) located within near-field distance from one of the unit cell antennas 204, and (ii) tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal. (or otherwise configured to receive an RF energy signal), the unit cell is adapted to leak an RF energy signal from the unit cell to an antenna of the electronic device 104. This adaptation of the unit cells to allow leakage of RF energy signals is the result of a capacitive inductance element (antenna) being placed within the near field of one or more of the unit cells. This process continues to charge the electronic device 104.

FIG. 2C is a flowchart illustrating a more detailed process 260 of an exemplary charging surface in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Process 260 may begin with step 262, where an RF energy signal may be provided at a charging surface. This RF energy signal may be an RF energy signal contained (confined/stored) within the substrate of the charging surface or provided to the charging surface by propagating within the substrate. In alternative embodiments, rather than providing the RF energy signal to the charging surface, the RF energy signal is applied until a change in capacitance, inductance, or RF signal is sensed at the charging surface by a passive or active electronic device. RF signals used to propagate within the substrate may be turned off. In some embodiments, the RF energy signal is intermittently turned on until it is determined that the electronic device is located in close proximity to the charging surface or is actually within the near field of the charging surface. may be switched on or turned on at a low power level.

At step 264, an RF antenna of the electronic device may enter the near field of the charging surface. The near field is the range in which a charging surface is capable of leaking RF energy signals from the surface in response to changes in capacitance and/or inductance in the vicinity of the charging surface, as further described herein. It can be.

At step 266, an RF energy signal may leak from the charging surface in response to the RF antenna entering the near field of the charging surface. As an example, if the amount of RF energy in the RF energy signal distributed and propagating inside the substrate of the charging surface is 5 W, then the RF energy signal is located at the location of the antenna of the electronic device (e.g., 1 W) within the near field of the charging surface. (above one or more unit cells) from where it may be leaked such that 5W is applied to the antenna entering the near field of the charging surface. As understood in the art, the amount of charge resulting from being within the near field of a charging surface is based on the amount of coupling between the two antennas. For example, if the coupling ratio is 1, there will be a loss of 0 dB. For example, if the coupling ratio is 0.5, a loss of 3 dB will occur.

Once the RF antenna exits the near field of the charging surface at step 268, the RF energy signal ceases to leak from the charging surface at step 270. The RF energy signal is then again trapped/stored inside the substrate of the charging surface. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the RF signal applied to the charging surface to generate the RF energy signal is turned off to conserve power.

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

The device's antenna 304 may include any suitable antenna type for operating in frequency bands similar to those described above with respect to FIG. 2A. In some embodiments, the device antenna 304 includes an antenna designed for Wi-Fi data communications with the electronic device 104 and an antenna designed for wireless data communications associated with telecommunications of the electronic device 104. Sometimes. Antenna 304 may be conventional and native to electronic device 104, such as a readily available manufactured antenna for consumer use. In some embodiments, the antenna 304 of a device operating in a frequency band such as those described above satisfies at least two purposes. One example objective is to facilitate data communication with electronic device 104 via a wireless standard, such as Bluetooth or WLAN, for communication of user data as well as communication of data related to wireless charging functionality. That's true. The second purpose is to receive an RF charging signal from the charging surface and provide this signal to receiving component 302. In such embodiments, the device's antenna 304 serves dual functions and there is no separate dedicated antenna for receiving wireless charging signals.

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

The charging surface has a specific operating frequency band. Depending on the operating frequency band of the antenna of the electronic device 104, the antenna of the electronic device 104 should be within the operating frequency band of the charging surface so that power transfer occurs in the near field. As an example, if the RF frequency of the RF energy signal operates within the Wi-Fi frequency band, the antenna for mobile communication will not cause leakage of the RF energy signal by virtue of being outside the frequency band of the charging surface. In one embodiment, a separate device, such as a power pack having an antenna, a power converter, and a battery, is configured to operate at frequencies outside the frequency bands of conventional mobile communications (e.g., GSM, LTE, etc.). can do. As an example, the charging surface may be configured to operate over an unlicensed frequency band, and the power pack may also be configured to operate over that frequency band, such that the charging surface Communication will no longer be affected when charging.

In some embodiments, receiving component 302 may incorporate an antenna (not shown) that is used in place of or in addition to electronic device antenna 304. In such embodiments, suitable antenna types include patch antennas about 1/24 inch to about 1 inch in height and about 1/24 inch to about 1 inch in width, or RF energy signals generated by charging surface 102. may include any other antenna, such as a dipole antenna, that is capable of receiving. Alternative dimensions may also be utilized depending on the frequency transmitted by the antenna. In any case, whether the original device antenna 304 or an additional antenna incorporated into the receiver 302 is used, the antenna is located within near-field distance from the charging surface 102. If so, the charging surface 102 should be tuned or otherwise configured to receive the RF energy signals generated by the charging surface 102 . In some embodiments, receiving component 302 may include circuitry that causes an alert signal to indicate that an RF energy signal has been received. Warning signals may include, for example, visual, audio, or physical indications. In alternative embodiments, rather than using an antenna that is internal to the electronic device, a separate antenna, such as a "backpack" for the electronic device (e.g., a mobile phone), which may simultaneously act as a protective case, as an example, may be used. A charging device may include an antenna in addition to power conversion electronics that convert the RF energy signal to a DC power signal.

Switch element 305 is capable of detecting an RF energy signal received at one or more of antennas 304 and directs this signal to rectifier 306 if the detected signal corresponds to a power level above a threshold. can lead to. The switching elements may be formed from diodes, transistors, or other electronic devices, which may be utilized to determine the absolute or average power level. allows switch element 305 to route the signal from the receiver to rectifier 306, thereby performing power conversion. For example, in some embodiments, the switch may direct the received RF energy signal to the rectifier 306 if the RF energy signal received at the antenna 304 indicates a wireless power transfer of greater than 10 mW. In other embodiments, the switch may direct the received RF energy signal if the received RF energy signal indicates a wireless power transfer of greater than 25 mW. This switching acts to prevent damage to electronic components of electronic device 104, such as receiving circuitry, by preventing power surges from being applied. If the threshold power is not reached, the electronic device operates in a conventional manner.

Rectifier 306 includes diodes, resistors, inductors, and/or capacitors to rectify the alternating current (AC) voltage produced by antenna 304 to a direct current (DC) voltage, as is understood in the art. In some embodiments, rectifier 306 and switch 305 may be placed as close as technically possible to antenna element 304 to minimize losses. After rectifying the AC voltage, the DC voltage may be conditioned and/or regulated using power converter 308. Power converter 308 can be a DC-DC converter that can help provide a constant voltage output to the electronic device, or in this embodiment, battery 312, regardless of the input. Typical voltage output may be about 0.5 volts to about 10 volts. Other voltage output levels are also available.

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

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

FIG. 4A shows a schematic diagram of an electrical circuit model 400a representing the electrical state of charging surface 102 when electronic device 104 is not located within near-field distance from charging surface 102. FIG. Electrical circuit model 400a includes a circuit 402 that represents the electromagnetic operation of charging surface 102 when the electronic device's antenna 304 is not located within near-field distance from charging surface 102. The electrical circuit model 400a is constructed such that the charging surface 102 is not previously tuned or otherwise operating as a high impedance with the electronic device's antenna not being placed within near-field distance of the charging surface 102. , represents a model of a charging surface 102 that is configured not to leak or otherwise output RF signals.

FIG. 4B illustrates a case where the electronic device 104 is placed within near-field distance from the charging surface 102 and the antenna 304 of the electronic device 104 is tuned to the center frequency of the RF energy signal generated by the charging surface 102. , shows a schematic diagram of an electrical circuit model 400b representing electrical connections between charging surface 102 and electronic device 104. The electrical circuit model includes circuit 404 that represents electronic device 104 being electromagnetically coupled to circuit 402 of charging surface 102 to cause a change in the electromagnetic operation of charging surface 102. The electrical circuit model 400b is such that the antenna of the electronic device is connected to a charging surface such that the representative electrical circuit model 400b is tuned by virtue of coupling effects, as understood in the art and further explained with respect to FIGS. 4C and 4D. 102 depicts a model of a charging surface 102 configured to leak an RF signal or otherwise output an RF signal when placed within near-field distance of the charging surface 102.

FIG. 4C shows a schematic model of the equivalent circuit with two states of energy flow: without and with electronic devices placed within near-field distance of the charging surface. In the first condition, the air is causing energy to be reflected from the high impedance surface of the charging surface. In the second state, inclusion of the antenna receiver within the near field of the surface creates an inductive coupling that allows energy flow through the high impedance surface of the charging surface. FIG. 4D shows an alternative representation of the schematic model of FIG. 4C. It should be appreciated that the models of FIGS. 4C and 4D are simplified and that more complex models can be utilized to represent adaptive high impedance surfaces.

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

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

In some embodiments, the dimensions of the aperture 506 are determined according to the periodic frequency of the RF energy signal such that an antenna tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal is within close range of at least one of the unit cells 502. No RF energy signal will leak out of the opening 506 of each unit cell 502 unless placed within field distance (eg, less than about 4 mm).

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

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

In some embodiments, the dimensions of the aperture 606 are determined according to the periodic frequency of the RF energy signal generated by the patch antenna 610 such that the antenna tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal is located within the unit cell 602. No RF energy signal leaks from the opening 606 of the unit cell 602, or leakage is minimal, unless the unit cell 602 is placed within near-field distance of at least one of the unit cells 602. The aperture 606 is sized according to the frequency of the RF energy signal so that it is properly tuned to prevent leakage of the RF energy signal when the electronic device is not placed in the near field. There is. Note that the number of layers in a unit cell may vary depending on the application, and different numbers of layers provide different responses from the unit cell, resulting in different harmonic responses (e.g. for different wireless power transfer applications). , higher or shifted harmonic frequencies).

FIG. 6E shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary charging surface 620 that includes a plurality of unit cells 622a-622n (collectively 622). In some embodiments, the unit cell 622 includes a via 624, a patch or slot 626, a substrate 628, and a surface element 630. In some embodiments, surface element 630 includes a plurality of holes or patches 632a-632n (collectively 632). In some embodiments, the length and width of unit cell 622 is between about 5 mm and about 10 mm. It is noted that alternative dimensions may be utilized as a function of the frequencies propagated or confined/stored by the unit cell and/or the material used to form the substrate 622. In some embodiments, substrate 628 may be formed from Rogers FR-4, ceramic, or other materials. In some embodiments, the use of a substrate 628, such as a ceramic, allows the dimensions of the unit cell to be smaller than would be possible without the use of the substrate 628.

Resonance A resonant coupler may be formed when the device to be charged enables the transfer of power and operates as part of a charging system. For example, as further described in FIGS. 7A and 8A-8C, a mobile phone with a metal case may be used to complete the charging device. In some embodiments, the charging system may operate in two different stages. The first stage allows the field to be fed into the first cavity through a feed point (eg, a slot on the ground plane) and confined within the structure of the first cavity. The first cavity may include several contact/leakage points that are activated when contacted by or in close proximity to an electronic device having a metal case. The second stage may operate when an electronic device is placed on the surface at the point of contact, such that energy is released from a second cavity partially formed by the electronic device on top of the charging surface. leak.

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

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 8A-8C, the electronic device 104 includes a back surface 701 generally formed from metal surfaces 702a, 702b, and 702c and including defined gaps 704a and 704b; and 704b are non-metallic and may be formed from plastic, glass, or any other material suitable for allowing transmission and/or reception of signals or waves. Gaps 704a and 704b are positioned proximate antenna 304 such that antenna 304 can receive signals coming through gaps 704a and 704b. The metal surfaces 702a, 702b, and 702c reflect the RF energy signal 802 as shown in FIG. zigzags or resonates within a cavity 706 formed between the top surface 708 of the charging surface 700 and one or more of the metal surfaces 702a, 702b, and 702c until reaching the surface. The RF energy signal 802 zigzags or resonates between the metal surface 702b and the top surface of the charging surface 700 as a wave confined in the cavity 706 (see FIG. 8A). energy signal 802 is reflected). Gaps 704a and 704b are positioned above charging surface 700, and more specifically above one or more unit cells of charging surface 700, such that RF energy signal 802 zigzags through cavity 706 and One of gaps 704a and 704b can be reached. When the RF energy signal 802 reaches the gap 704a, the RF energy signal 802 enters through the gap 704a and is received by the antenna 304 of the device.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, charging surface 700 is shown to include a cover 802 that includes a first cavity 804a and a second cavity 804b (collectively 804) is formed by a ground plane 806 separating the two cavities 804. The ground plane may be formed from a metamaterial, as described herein. Charging surface 700 may also include one or more contact points 810 that emit RF energy signals. In operation, a first step includes providing an RF energy signal to the first cavity 804a through a feed point (e.g., a slot on the ground plane) and being confined within the structure of the first cavity 804a. enable. The first cavity 804a may include a number of contact/leakage points 810 that are activated when contacted by or in close proximity to an electronic device with a metal case. . The second stage may operate when an electronic device is placed on the cover 802 at at least one of the contact points 810 such that the top of the cover 802 of the charging surface 700 is partially touched by the electronic device. Energy leaks from the second cavity 804b, which is formed in the same manner. Because this charging surface 700 utilizes only a few contact points 810, fewer power amplifiers are needed to provide the RF energy signal, thereby resulting in a lower cost than having more contact points. . In one embodiment, four contact points 810 may be utilized. However, it should be appreciated that the number of contact points may vary depending on the amount of area provided by charging surface 700. If a large area (eg, a desk) is provided, more contact points 810 are provided. If a small area (eg, a pad) is provided, fewer contact points 810 are provided.

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

FIG. 8D shows electronic device 104 placed on charging surface 700. As the electronics are placed on the charging surface 700, a flow of energy 812 from the RF energy signal is generated within the cavity formed by the electronics 104 and the charging surface.

FIG. 7B shows an example electronic schematic diagram of electronic device 104 of FIG. 7A. Electronic device 104 is shown to include two gaps 704 within which antenna 304 is positioned to receive RF signals 706 . Antenna 304 is in electrical communication with an RF integrated circuit (RF-IC) 708 via electrical conductor 710 . RF-IC 708 is shown to include a switch 712 and a rectifier 714. The switch 712 may be configured to route the RF signal 706 to a transceiver (XCVR) 716 when communicating the signal. Transceiver 716 is a conventional transceiver used for user communications, as understood in the art. However, in response to the RF signal 706 crossing a certain threshold level, such as 0.1W or 0.25W, the switch 712 is activated so that the RF signal 706 internally outputs one or more rectifiers 718. may be routed to a rectifying device 714 that includes. Switch 712 may be a solid state switch, as understood in the art. Output from rectifier 714 may be routed to a battery 720 that is used to power electronic device 104.

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

Rather than receiving an active charging request, the charging surface determines whether or not the electronic device is being charged, with or without the presence or absence of reflections of RF energy signals transmitted by the charging surface. Some radio or radiated signals from electronic devices may be received or sensed that indicate proximity to the surface. Any receiver or sensor may be utilized to sense such signals from the electronic device. In alternative embodiments, a proximity switch or pressure switch may be utilized to detect when an electronic device is in close proximity to or placed on a charging surface. Additionally, magnetic or optical switches may be used.

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

As discussed herein, the RF energy signal is generated within the unit cell of charging surface 700 and remains substantially within the unit cell until the RF energy signal attenuates or leaks. Once an antenna 304 tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal is placed within near-field distance from one or more of the unit cells, those unit cells, in step 906, are tuned to the frequency of the RF energy signal at the antenna 304. allow it to be leaked.

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

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

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

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

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

According to the present disclosure, a low power RF energy signal is generated within a unit cell of charging surface 700 and remains within the unit cell until the low power RF energy signal attenuates or leaks. Once a (receiver) antenna 304 tuned to the frequency of the low power RF energy signal is placed within near field distance from one or more of the unit cells, in step 1004 those unit cells , allowing RF energy signals to leak to antenna 304.

At step 1006, microcontroller 208 may sense a low power RF energy signal present within the unit cell. For example, in some embodiments, the microcontroller 208 may include sensing circuitry, such as an RF coupler, that can detect "reflections" of low power RF energy signals, such as within a unit cell. Represents approximately 10% of the low power RF energy signals present. Accordingly, the microcontroller 208 can calculate the low power RF energy signal present within the unit cell based on the reflection values sensed by the microcontroller 208. Although the sensing performed in step 1006 is shown sequentially in FIG. 10, this step may be performed in any order or repeated continuously in parallel with the processing performed in flowchart 1000. Please understand that it is okay to do so. The low power RF energy signal may be generated periodically or non-periodically, pulsed or otherwise, to determine whether an electronic device is present, as shown in diagram 1000. be.

Once the microcontroller 208 senses a low power RF energy signal present within the unit cell, the sensed low power RF energy is compared to a threshold in step 1008 to determine subsequent low power RF energy signals within the unit cell. It is determined whether or not to generate it. A sensed low power RF energy signal is below a threshold if the low power RF energy signal is attenuated or tuned to the frequency of the low power RF energy signal and one of the unit cells or This indicates a situation in which the antenna is either leaked to an antenna located within near-field distance from multiple sources. Accordingly, if the sensed low power RF energy signal is below the threshold, it is assumed that the low power RF energy signal has either leaked or been attenuated and the process returns to step 1002 to Controller 208 operates antenna 204 to generate a subsequent low power RF energy signal. Otherwise, if the reflection exceeds the threshold, the low power RF energy signal will remain within the substrate and no subsequent RF signal will be generated, so that the unit cells of charging surface 700 will not continue to gain energy. Accordingly, the process returns to step 1006 and the microcontroller 208 continues to sense the low power RF energy signal present within the unit cell.

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

Harmonic Filters In conventional power transmission systems, the various electronic elements that make up the system are often grouped together, and the losses experienced by each grouped element are combined, so that the system as a whole suffer a loss greater than the individual loss of For example, if a system has a 90% efficient antenna lumped with a 90% efficient amplifier, the overall efficiency of the system including these two elements is about 81%. As more elements are added, the overall efficiency of the system further decreases. Accordingly, to increase the efficiency of the disclosed charging surfaces, some embodiments of the charging surfaces include filter elements, such as harmonic filters, to reduce radiated energy at frequencies other than the intended wireless charging signal. In particular, it is possible to reduce the harmonic energy of the intended wireless charging signal. A harmonic filter can, for example, attenuate these frequency components by 40 dB to 70 dB.

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

It should be noted that the harmonic filter elements 1104 included in each unit cell 1102 may be discrete filter elements or may be a single larger single filter element that spans the top surface of the plurality of unit cells 1102 forming the charging surface 102. It may be part of a harmonic filter element. Accordingly, in such embodiments, the charging surface 102 includes a harmonic filter element 1104 disposed on the unit cell 1102 such that the charging surface 102 includes a matrix of transmitting antennas (e.g., patch antennas 610) ( or an array).

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, each of the unit cells 1102 includes a single substrate layer 615, and the harmonic filter elements 1104 present in each of the unit cells 1102 are located in the upper surface area of those unit cells 1102. Contains a single harmonic filter element spanning the entire length. However, in other embodiments, harmonic filter element 1104 may include a plurality of harmonic filter elements, one of which is one of the elements forming unit cell 1102. placed on the top surface. It should be noted that a unit cell with a harmonic rejection filter can be formed by a more complex unit cell, for example a unit cell that includes more layers and features inside the unit cell. For example, this latter embodiment may include a harmonic filter element 1104 disposed on the top area of patch antenna 610, a harmonic filter element 1104 disposed on the top area of metal portion 604, and a harmonic filter element 1104 disposed on the top area of metal portion 604, and a harmonic It can be expressed by the absence of a wave filter element.

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

12A and 12B illustrate a perspective view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of an exemplary unit cell 1202 that includes one embodiment of a charging surface 102, each unit cell 1202 having a or optionally, a harmonic filter element 1204 disposed between the top substrate layer 515a and the bottom substrate layer 515b). It is noted that the harmonic filter elements 1204 included in each unit cell 1202 may be discontinuous filter elements or larger harmonic filter elements 1204 that span the upper substrate layer 515a of the plurality of unit cells 1202 forming the charging surface 102. It may be part of a single harmonic filter element. Accordingly, in such embodiments, the charging surface 102 includes a harmonic filter element 1204 disposed within the top substrate layer 515a of the unit cell 1202, such that the charging surface 102 includes a transmitting antenna (e.g., a patch antenna). 510), including a harmonic filter placed on top of the matrix (or array) of 510).

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the unit cell 1202 includes a top substrate layer 515a and a bottom substrate layer 515b, and the harmonic filter elements 1204 present in the top substrate layer 515a of each of the unit cells 1202 are includes a single harmonic filter element that spans the entire area of the upper substrate layer 515a of the unit cell 1202. However, in other embodiments, the harmonic filter element 1204 may span only a portion of the top substrate layer 515a, such that the harmonic filter element 1204 extends beyond the patch antenna 510 disposed within the bottom substrate layer 515b. placed only above.

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

Stacking Receiving Devices FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate components of a wireless charging system 1300 between multiple electronic devices 1302, 1304, according to an example embodiment. For ease of explanation, FIGS. 13A and 13B depict wireless power transfer between two devices 1302, 1304. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the wireless power transfer described herein can occur between two or more electronic devices. In an exemplary embodiment, first electronic device 1302 can receive power from charging surface 1306 through near-field charging techniques and can then power second electronic device 1304. In alternative embodiments, first electronic device 1302 may receive power using other techniques, such as far-field RF power transfer.

As shown in FIG. 13A, in some embodiments, the electronic devices 1302, 1304 are stacked or otherwise placed in contact with each other so that the charging surface 1306 is connected to the first device 1302 and then the first Transfer of power from device 1302 to second device 1304 may be accomplished. As shown in FIG. 13B, first device 1302 may receive power from charging surface 1306 using near-field power transfer techniques, and then first device 1302 uses far-field power transfer techniques. may be used to transmit power to the second device 1304 .

Near-field RF power transfer techniques may include a transmitting charging surface 1306 that includes several physical layers, such as a cavity or substrate, for confining the RF energy, and an electronic device 1302; 1304 for positioning thereon. The near-field charging surface may be configured to introduce RF energy into the substrate or cavity layer until some physical condition is introduced by the receiver antenna or electronics 1302, 1304. remain trapped. In some implementations, RF energy is transferred to the charging surface 1306 only when an electronic device 1302, 1304 with a properly tuned receiving antenna is placed close enough to the top surface to release the RF energy. Leak through surfaces. In some implementations, the RF energy remains "trapped" within the substrate or cavity layer until a metal portion of the electronic device 1302, 1304 contacts the surface layer. Although other possible techniques may be used, near-field techniques are those in which RF energy is transferred within the charging surface 1306 until some physical condition is satisfied by the receiving electronics 1302, 1304 or the receiving antenna. may refer generally to systems and methods that remain confined to the In many cases, this may have a working distance ranging from direct contact to about 10 millimeters. For example, if the operating distance is 1 millimeter, the first electronic device 1302 needs to be within 1 millimeter before RF energy leaks from the substrate or cavity layer of the charging surface 1306.

Far-field RF power transmission technology involves a sending device transmitting RF power waves over some distance, which can range from less than 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) to more than 50 feet (15.24 meters). may include an array of one or more antennas (not shown) configured to transmit. In near-field power transfer, a transmitting device may be configured to transmit power waves within a limited distance, such as less than 12 inches (30.48 centimeters). This can be done, for example, by requiring a receiving device to enter a threshold of proximity from the transmitting device before the transmitting device transmits a power wave, or by limiting the effective range over which a power wave can deliver power. can be restricted in any number of ways, such as by In some implementations, a transmitting device acting as a proximity transmitter may transmit power waves to be focused at or near a particular location, such that the power waves create a constructive interference pattern. The receiving device may include an antenna and circuitry capable of receiving energy resulting from the constructive interference pattern, and then transmitting that energy to an electronic device coupled to or including the receiving device. It may be converted into usable alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) power for use.

Electronic devices 1302, 1304 may be any electronic devices that include near-field and/or far-field antennas that can perform the various processes and tasks described herein. For example, first device 1302 and second device 1304 may include an antenna and circuitry configured to generate, transmit, and/or receive RF energy using RF signals. In FIGS. 13A and 13B, first device 1302 and second device 1304 are shown as mobile phones. However, this should not be considered as limiting the possible electronic devices 1302, 1304. Non-limiting examples of possible electronic devices 1302, 1304 include tablets, laptops, cell phones, PDAs, smart watches, fitness devices, headsets, or other devices that can be recharged or recharged using the principles described herein. Any other device capable of operation may be included.

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

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

As shown in FIG. 13A, in some embodiments, the first device 1302 transmits the RF energy from the first device 1302 to the Components for a near-field RF charging surface, similar to charging surface 1306, may be included to allow RF energy signals to be confined beneath the surface layer of device 1302.

Additionally or alternatively, as shown in FIG. 13B, in some implementations, first device 1302 is configured to transmit one or more power waves to an antenna of second electronic device 1304. The transmitter may also be configured to function as a far-field proximity transmitter including an array of one or more antennas.

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

In operation, the communication component of the first device 1302 may receive a communication signal from the second mobile device 1304, the communication signal including data including a request to receive power from the first device 1302. Contains. Additionally or alternatively, the first electronic device 1302 may receive one or more wireless broadcast messages from the second device 1304, thereby causing the first electronic device 1302 to detects the presence of the second electronic device 1304 and enables the second electronic device 1304 to begin delivering power or to begin flooding the substrate or cavity layer with RF energy. Such request messages may also include device type, battery details of the device, such as battery type and current battery charge, as well as data related to the current location of the device. In some implementations, the first electronic device 1302 uses the data contained within the message to determine various operational parameters for transmitting or otherwise transporting RF energy to the second device 1304. A second device 1304 captures this RF energy and converts it into usable alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) electricity.

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

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

Similarly, the communication component of the second device 1304 uses the communication signals to, for example, send a message to the first device 1302 requesting to transfer power to the first device 1302 or send another message to the first device 1302. Exchange data that can be used to broadcast in different ways. This message includes, for example, battery power information, data indicating the current location, data information about the user of the second device 1304, information about the second device 1304 to be charged indicating the efficiency of power reception, and , a request to stop delivering power as well as other types of useful data. Non-limiting examples of various types of information that may be included in communication signals include beacon messages, device identifiers for first device 1302 (Device ID), and user identifiers for first device 1302 (User ID). , the battery level of the second device 1304, the location of the second device 1304, and other such information.

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

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

In an alternative embodiment, first device 1302 may send a charging request to second device 1304. The charging request may include data regarding the user of the first device 1302, details of the first device 1302, the battery charge of the first device 1304, and the current location of the first device 1302. Upon receiving the charging request, the second device 1304 can accept or reject the request. The second device 1304 includes additional details related to the user of the first device 1302, details of the first device 1302, battery charge of the first device 1302, and current location of the first device 1302. without limitation, if such details are not present in the request. Upon accepting the request, second device 1304 may determine the location of first device 1302. The second device 1304 may use one or more techniques, such as sensor detection, thermal mapping detection, and others, to determine the location of the first device 1302. Once the location of the first device 1302 is determined, the second device 1304 may transmit an RF signal to the first device 1302, which RF signal may be transmitted to the antenna of the first device 1302 and/or may be captured by the circuit to charge the battery of the first device 1302.

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

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

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of wireless power transfer between multiple devices, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

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

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

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

At step 1608, the second device may charge the battery using the RF signal received from the first device. After accepting the second device's request, the first device may determine the location of the second device. Once the location of the second device is determined, the first device may transmit an RF signal to the second device, the RF signal being picked up by an antenna and/or circuitry of the second device. The battery of the second device can then be charged.

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

The antenna of the second device may harvest energy from the RF signal, which energy may be formed by the resulting accumulation of RF signals at that location. After the RF signal is received and/or energy is collected from the pocket of energy, the circuitry (e.g., integrated circuit, amplifier, rectifier, voltage regulator) of the second device receives the RF signal (e.g., radio frequency The energy of the electromagnetic radiation) can be converted into electrical energy (ie, electricity), and the electrical energy can be stored in a battery of the second device.

In one embodiment, the circuitry of the first device includes a plurality of unit cells configured to receive an RF signal, and the plurality of unit cells are such that the antenna of the second device is connected to one of the unit cells. is configured to present an RF energy signal to charge a battery of the second device in response to being placed within near-field range of at least one of the second devices. In another embodiment, the circuitry of the second device includes a plurality of unit cells configured to receive an RF signal, the plurality of unit cells configured such that the antenna of the first device is The device is configured to present an RF energy signal to charge a battery of the first device in response to being placed within near field range of at least one of the devices.

The foregoing method descriptions and flow diagrams are provided merely as illustrative examples and are not intended to require or imply that the steps of the various embodiments must be performed in the order presented. It's not something I did. The steps in the embodiments described above may be performed in any order. The words "then", "next", etc. are not intended to limit the order of steps. These words are only used to guide the reader through the description of the method. Although a process flow diagram may describe the operations as sequential steps, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or simultaneously. Additionally, the order of operations can be rearranged. A process may correspond to a method, function, procedure, subroutine, subprogram, etc. If the step corresponds to a function, its termination may correspond to returning the function to the calling function or main function.

The various example logic blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. can. To clearly illustrate this compatibility between hardware and software, various exemplary components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. . Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends on the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Although skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in a variety of ways for each particular application, such implementation decisions shall be construed as causing a departure from the scope of the invention. Shouldn't.

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

The actual software code or specialized control hardware used to implement these systems and methods is not a limitation of the invention. Thus, without reference to specific software code, it is understood that software and control hardware can be designed to implement the systems and methods based on the description herein. was explained.

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

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

Although various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed, other aspects and embodiments are possible. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed are for illustrative purposes and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

Claims (24)

A method for wirelessly delivering power to a receiving device, the method comprising:
While the receiving device lacks sufficient power to transmit the electromagnetic communication signal,
radiating a radio frequency (RF) power transmission wave at a first power level through an antenna of a unit cell included in a near field charging pad, the near field charging pad comprising a plurality of unit cells including the unit cell; including;
detecting an amount of energy associated with the RF power transmission wave reflected by one or more of the plurality of unit cells by the near-field charging pad; and , determining that the receiving device is within near-field distance of the near-field charging pad if the amount satisfies a threshold;
the RF power transmission at the first power level via the antenna of the unit cell in response to determining that the receiving device is within the near-field range of the near-field charging pad; Continuing to radiate waves,
upon receiving an electromagnetic communication signal generated by the receiving device;
ceasing to radiate the RF power transmission wave at the first power level; and initiating a new RF power transmission via the antenna of the unit cell at a second power level higher than the first power level. A method comprising: emitting waves. emitting the RF power transmission wave at the first power level occurs prior to detecting that any receiving device is within the near-field range of the near-field charging pad; The method according to claim 1. The electromagnetic communication signal includes device-specific characteristics of the receiving device, and the second power level of the new RF power transmission wave radiated by the antenna of the unit cell includes device-specific characteristics of the receiving device. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the method is determined based at least in part on a property. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the device-specific characteristics include one or more of an identifier of the receiving device, a battery level of the receiving device, and a power requirement of the receiving device. the near-field charging pad includes a communication radio for receiving the electromagnetic communication signal from the receiving device;
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the receiving device includes a corresponding communication radio for transmitting the electromagnetic communication signal to the near field charging pad. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein each unit cell of the plurality of unit cells radiates a respective RF power transmission wave at the first power level via a respective antenna. Detecting the amount of energy associated with the RF power transmission waves includes detecting a respective amount of energy associated with each of the RF power transmission waves reflected by the plurality of unit cells of the near field charging pad. 7. The method of claim 6, carried out in conjunction with detecting. the near-field charging pad includes a controller and an RF coupler;
the controller is connected to the RF coupler;
The RF coupler (i) detects the amount of energy associated with the RF power transmission wave reflected by the one or more unit cells of the plurality of unit cells, and (ii) the controller 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the amount is provided to . The receiving device includes:
a wireless power receiver for receiving RF power transmission waves;
and an electronic device coupled to the wireless power receiver. A near-field charging pad for wirelessly delivering power to a receiving device, the pad comprising:
While the receiving device lacks sufficient power to transmit the electromagnetic communication signal,
radiating a radio frequency (RF) power transmission wave at a first power level through an antenna of a unit cell included in a near field charging pad, the near field charging pad comprising a plurality of unit cells including the unit cell; including;
detecting an amount of energy associated with the RF power transmission wave reflected by one or more of the plurality of unit cells by the near-field charging pad; and , determining that the receiving device is within near-field distance of the near-field charging pad if the amount satisfies a threshold;
the RF power transmission at the first power level via the antenna of the unit cell in response to determining that the receiving device is within the near-field range of the near-field charging pad; Continuing to radiate waves,
upon receiving an electromagnetic communication signal generated by the receiving device;
ceasing to radiate the RF power transmission wave at the first power level; and initiating a new RF power transmission via the antenna of the unit cell at a second power level higher than the first power level. and a near-field charging pad that emits waves. emitting the RF power transmission wave at the first power level occurs prior to detecting that any receiving device is within the near-field range of the near-field charging pad; The near-field charging pad of claim 10. The electromagnetic communication signal includes device-specific characteristics of the receiving device, and the controller of the near-field charging pad generates the new RF power transmission wave based at least in part on the device-specific characteristics of the receiving device. 11. The near-field charging pad of claim 10, further configured to determine the second power level of. 13. The near-field charging pad of claim 12, wherein the device-specific characteristics include one or more of an identifier of the receiving device, a battery level of the receiving device, and a power requirement of the receiving device. the near-field charging pad includes a communication radio for receiving the electromagnetic communication signal from the receiving device;
11. The near field charging pad of claim 10, wherein the receiving device includes a corresponding communication radio for transmitting the electromagnetic communication signal to the near field charging pad. 11. The near field charging pad of claim 10, wherein each unit cell of the plurality of unit cells radiates a respective RF power transmission wave at the first power level via a respective antenna. Detecting the amount of energy associated with the RF power transmission waves includes detecting a respective amount of energy associated with each of the RF power transmission waves reflected by the plurality of unit cells of the near field charging pad. 16. The near field charging pad of claim 15, carried out in conjunction with sensing. the near-field charging pad controller is connected to an RF coupler;
The RF coupler (i) detects the amount of energy associated with the RF power transmission wave reflected by the one or more unit cells of the plurality of unit cells, and (ii) the controller 11. The near field charging pad of claim 10, wherein the near field charging pad provides the amount. The receiving device includes:
a wireless power receiver for receiving RF power transmission waves;
and an electronic device coupled to the wireless power receiver. a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing executable instructions, when executed by one or more processors in communication with the near-field charging pad;
While the receiving device lacks sufficient power to transmit the electromagnetic communication signal,
radiating a radio frequency (RF) power transmission wave at a first power level through an antenna of a unit cell included in a near field charging pad, the near field charging pad comprising a plurality of unit cells including the unit cell; including;
detecting an amount of energy associated with the RF power transmission wave reflected by one or more of the plurality of unit cells by the near-field charging pad; and , determining that the receiving device is within near-field distance of the near-field charging pad if the amount satisfies a threshold;
the RF power transmission at the first power level via the antenna of the unit cell in response to determining that the receiving device is within the near-field range of the near-field charging pad; Continuing to radiate waves,
upon receiving an electromagnetic communication signal generated by the receiving device;
ceasing to radiate the RF power transmission wave at the first power level; and initiating a new RF power transmission via the antenna of the unit cell at a second power level higher than the first power level. a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium capable of emitting waves; emitting the RF power transmission wave at the first power level occurs prior to detecting that any receiving device is within the near-field range of the near-field charging pad; 20. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 19. The electromagnetic communication signal includes device-specific characteristics of the receiving device, and the second power level of the new RF power transmission wave radiated by the antenna of the unit cell includes device-specific characteristics of the receiving device. 20. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 19, determined based at least in part on a characteristic. 22. The non-transitory computer-readable storage of claim 21, wherein the device-specific characteristics include one or more of an identifier of the receiving device, a battery level of the receiving device, and a power requirement of the receiving device. Medium. the near-field charging pad includes a communication radio for receiving the electromagnetic communication signal from the receiving device;
20. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 19, wherein the receiving device includes a corresponding communications radio for transmitting the electromagnetic communications signal to the near-field charging pad. The receiving device includes:
a wireless power receiver for receiving RF power transmission waves;
20. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium of claim 19, comprising: an electronic device coupled to the wireless power receiver.