WO2022266722A1 - Portable wireless charging apparatus - Google Patents

Portable wireless charging apparatus Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022266722A1
WO2022266722A1 PCT/AU2022/050652 AU2022050652W WO2022266722A1 WO 2022266722 A1 WO2022266722 A1 WO 2022266722A1 AU 2022050652 W AU2022050652 W AU 2022050652W WO 2022266722 A1 WO2022266722 A1 WO 2022266722A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
charging apparatus
charging
battery
electronic device
portable wireless
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2022/050652
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Bailey Page
Original Assignee
Bailey Page
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AU2021901925A external-priority patent/AU2021901925A0/en
Application filed by Bailey Page filed Critical Bailey Page
Priority to AU2022300206A priority Critical patent/AU2022300206B2/en
Publication of WO2022266722A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022266722A1/en

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Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1632External expansion units, e.g. docking stations
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1626Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with a single-body enclosure integrating a flat display, e.g. Personal Digital Assistants [PDAs]
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H02GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02JCIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/0013Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries acting upon several batteries simultaneously or sequentially
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H02GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02JCIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/0042Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries characterised by the mechanical construction
    • H02J7/0044Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries characterised by the mechanical construction specially adapted for holding portable devices containing batteries
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H02GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02JCIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/0047Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries with monitoring or indicating devices or circuits
    • H02J7/0048Detection of remaining charge capacity or state of charge [SOC]
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H02GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02JCIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/0063Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries with circuits adapted for supplying loads from the battery
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H02GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02JCIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/34Parallel operation in networks using both storage and other dc sources, e.g. providing buffering
    • H02J7/342The other DC source being a battery actively interacting with the first one, i.e. battery to battery charging
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1633Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
    • G06F1/1656Details related to functional adaptations of the enclosure, e.g. to provide protection against EMI, shock, water, or to host detachable peripherals like a mouse or removable expansions units like PCMCIA cards, or to provide access to internal components for maintenance or to removable storage supports like CDs or DVDs, or to mechanically mount accessories
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01RELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/627Snap or like fastening
    • H01R13/6271Latching means integral with the housing
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01RELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/629Additional means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. aligning or guiding means, levers, gas pressure electrical locking indicators, manufacturing tolerances
    • H01R13/62905Additional means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. aligning or guiding means, levers, gas pressure electrical locking indicators, manufacturing tolerances comprising a camming member
    • H01R13/62911U-shaped sliding element
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01RELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/64Means for preventing incorrect coupling
    • H01R13/642Means for preventing incorrect coupling by position or shape of contact members
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H02GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02JCIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J2310/00The network for supplying or distributing electric power characterised by its spatial reach or by the load
    • H02J2310/10The network having a local or delimited stationary reach
    • H02J2310/20The network being internal to a load
    • H02J2310/22The load being a portable electronic device
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H02GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02JCIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/0029Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries with safety or protection devices or circuits
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H02GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02JCIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/0029Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries with safety or protection devices or circuits
    • H02J7/00304Overcurrent protection
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H02GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02JCIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/0029Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries with safety or protection devices or circuits
    • H02J7/00308Overvoltage protection
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H02GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02JCIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/0047Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries with monitoring or indicating devices or circuits
    • H02J7/0048Detection of remaining charge capacity or state of charge [SOC]
    • H02J7/0049Detection of fully charged condition

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a portable wireless charging apparatus, and more particularly to a portable charging apparatus configured to enable a mobile electronic device to be plugged into the portable charging apparatus for charging the device without any connecting cables, and whereby the apparatus is dimensioned to facilitate transportation of the device during charging.
  • Portable smart devices are ubiquitous in modern society.
  • An example of a portable smart device is a smartphone, i.e. a mobile phone (also known as a cell phone) equipped with advanced computing capability and connectivity to perform more tasks than a basic mobile phone.
  • a portable smart device is a tablet which is a portable touch screen miniature computer.
  • portable smart devices unlike computers which typically need to be plugged into a power source, portable smart devices typically include a battery as the sole power source which enables the devices to be carried with users. Therefore, the operation of such devices is limited by their battery capacity, and it can be very inconvenient for users when their device batteries are depleted and there is no means of charging the device nearby.
  • the problem of devices running out of battery charge has been exacerbated in recent years with the advancement of video streaming and similar services which, due to the constant requirement for the device to exchange cellular data, are particularly consuming of battery life.
  • An apparatus that is commonly used to address the abovementioned problem is a portable charging station, commonly known as a “power bank”. Users often take power banks with them to prevent their portable smart devices from running out of battery charge.
  • a cable is usually required to charge the portable smart device, with a USB connector end plugged into the power bank and the other end (typically a micro USB connector end) configured for plugging into a power socket of the device.
  • power banks are effective in providing a portable means of charging a smart device, they have a number of disadvantages. As described above, power banks usually require the use of a detachable cable to connect the power bank to the device. Therefore, multiple components are required to be carried by the user, and if the user happens to forget to bring one or more components (e.g. the cable), the portable smart device cannot be charged.
  • power banks tend to be heavy, bulky items and the cords tend to be very short, which means they are not convenient or comfortable to use particularly when a user is travelling (e.g. walking).
  • a user will typically need to use both hands to effect charging of the device, i.e. one hand to carry the power bank and the other hand positioned nearby to carry the device being charged.
  • power banks known to the present Applicant are not easily stored and are not aesthetically pleasing.
  • the apparatus of the present invention seeks to address the above identified problems or at least provide an alternative solution to same.
  • the present invention provides a portable wireless charging apparatus for charging an internal battery of a portable electronic device, the apparatus including a housing that internally defines a chamber in which is disposed a charging apparatus battery and a power control circuit to manage usage of the charging apparatus battery, and externally defines a docking cavity configured to receive and releasably connect with a charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device, wherein the docking cavity includes a power supply connector that projects inside the docking cavity such that the connector is received in a charging receptacle of the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device when docked to the charging apparatus, wherein the connector provides electrical power from the charging apparatus battery to the internal battery of the docked portable electronic device, and wherein the housing is shaped to substantially cradle the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device when the device is docked to the charging apparatus.
  • the housing of the portable wireless charging apparatus is substantially U-shaped, wherein the cavity is defined by a base portion and two upstanding front and rear wall portions of the housing.
  • the apparatus thereby acts as a bracket for receiving the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device.
  • the ability of the charging apparatus to act as a bracket that cradles or “wraps around” the portable electronic device causes the portable electronic device and the portable wireless charging apparatus to be combined into a single unit rather than two separate units that need to be connected using a detachable cable.
  • This configuration also facilitates transportation of the components during charging since the ability of the charging apparatus to engage the electronic device in the manner described above gives rise to increased stability, and requires reduced effort on the part of the user since the docked electronic device can easily be stored, e.g. in the user’s pocket whilst receiving charge from the charging apparatus.
  • the portable wireless charging apparatus further includes one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) for indicating when the electronic device is switched on.
  • LEDs are located on a rear surface of the housing.
  • the portable wireless charging apparatus may include a series of LEDs that indicate a battery life associated with the internal battery of a docked electronic device.
  • the housing includes four LEDs to display a percentage of charge left in the internal battery of the electronic device, whereby the illumination of one LED in a first colour indicates approximately 25% battery life, the illumination of two LEDs in the first colour indicates approximately 50% battery life, the illumination of three LEDs in the first colour indicates approximately 75% battery life, and the illumination of all four LEDs in the first colour indicates 100% battery life.
  • the LEDs may be configured to also illuminate in a second colour, e.g. one or more LEDs illuminated in a second colour to indicate less than approximately 25% battery life.
  • the LEDs may be configured to illuminate a single colour and that commence flashing when the battery approaches a lower end of percentage battery life, for example, less than approximately 25% of battery life.
  • the portable wireless charging apparatus further includes a first charging receptacle which enables charging of the charging apparatus battery disposed inside the housing chamber.
  • the first charging receptacle therefore enables the battery of the charging apparatus to be recharged when not in use.
  • the docking cavity is shaped to accommodate one of a plurality of different electronic devices of varying size and shape.
  • the docking cavity is shaped to accommodate, at any one time, a mobile phone (also known as a smart phone or cell phone) such as an Apple Iphone®, or a tablet such as an Apple Ipad®, or a portable audio playback/streaming device such as an Apple Airpod®.
  • a mobile phone also known as a smart phone or cell phone
  • the housing and associated power supply connector
  • the housing may be configured to accommodate other devices of different size and shape, including Android® devices.
  • the upstanding front and rear walls are sufficiently spaced apart to accommodate the charging receptacle portion of the electronic device received in the cavity for charging.
  • the upstanding front and rear walls further include one or more surfaces that are correspondingly shaped with the charging receptacle portion of the electronic device received in the cavity to facilitate cradling thereof.
  • the power control circuit disposed in the housing chamber includes a 5V adapter input including bidirectional energy flow control with an automatic input power source detection to enable switching between a battery charging mode and a battery power supply mode.
  • the battery charging mode is operable to cause the charging apparatus battery to charge the internal battery of the portable electronic device
  • the battery power supply mode is operable to cause the charging apparatus battery to receive charge from an external power supply.
  • the power control circuit disposed in the housing chamber further includes a single-chip microcomputer including one or more of: an input detection circuit, an over-voltage detection circuit, an under-voltage detection circuit, and an over-current protection circuit.
  • the portable wireless charging apparatus further includes a second charging receptacle for optionally charging an internal battery of a second electronic device whilst a first electronic device is docked in the docking cavity and independently charging.
  • the present invention provides a portable electronic device assembly, including a portable electronic device that includes an internal battery and a charging receptacle portion that enables charging of the internal battery when a power supply connector is attached thereto, and a portable wireless charging apparatus configured in accordance with any one or more of the preceding statements.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a portable wireless charging apparatus configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 illustrates a rear perspective view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
  • Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
  • Figure 4 illustrates a further rear perspective view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
  • Figure 5 illustrates a right side view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
  • Figure 6 illustrates a rear view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
  • Figure 7 illustrates a left side view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
  • Figure 8 illustrates a front view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
  • Figure 9 illustrates various different views of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1 including a docked portable audio playback/streaming device.
  • Figure 10 illustrates various views of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1 including a docked mobile phone. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(S) OF THE INVENTION
  • the present invention relates to a portable wireless charging apparatus (10) in respect of which an embodiment is depicted in various different views in Figures 1 -8.
  • the apparatus (10) is operable to charge a portable electronic device (12) of the type that includes an internal battery (not shown) and a charging receptacle (not shown) that enables charging of the device’s internal battery when a power supply connector (not shown) is attached thereto.
  • Devices (12) configured to have their batteries charged by such apparatus (10) include mobile phones, tablets and audio playback devices, as described in greater detail below.
  • an apparatus (10) configured in accordance with the embodiment described is effectively a miniature docking station for receiving a charging receptacle portion of the body of a portable electronic device (12), and for charging the internal battery associated with the portable electronic device (12).
  • the apparatus (10) is of a shape, size and configuration to engage with the electronic device (12) in a manner that causes the electronic device (12) and the charging apparatus (10) to be combined into a single, transportable unit, rather than two separate units that need to be connected by a detachable cable.
  • the portable wireless charging apparatus (10) includes a housing (14) that internally defines a chamber (not shown) in which is disposed a battery (not shown) and a power control circuit (not shown) to manage usage of the battery.
  • the housing (14) defines a docking cavity (16) configured to receive and releasably connect with the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device (12), e.g. the middle portion of an audio streaming device as shown in Figure 9, or the end portion of a mobile phone as shown in Figure 10.
  • the docking cavity (16) includes a power supply connector (18) that projects into the docking cavity such that the connector (18) is received in the charging receptacle (not shown) of the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device (12) as the device (12) is inserted into the cavity (16).
  • a power supply connector (18) that projects into the docking cavity such that the connector (18) is received in the charging receptacle (not shown) of the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device (12) as the device (12) is inserted into the cavity (16).
  • Each of the connector (18) of the charging apparatus (10) and charging receptacle (not shown) of the electronic device (12) will be configured to engage with each other once the connector (18) is inserted a sufficient distance into the receptacle, as is well known.
  • the cavity (16) may be dimensioned to receive and engage the device (12) using a snap-fit configuration, wherein the device, when in a fully engaged position, is prevented from being lifted out of the cavity without a minimum amount of pulling force being applied.
  • the connector (18) provides electrical power from the charging apparatus battery to the internal battery of the docked portable electronic device (12).
  • the housing (14) is shaped to substantially cradle or “wrap around” the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device (12) when the device is docked to the charging apparatus (10).
  • the housing (10) of the portable wireless charging apparatus (10) is substantially U- shaped, wherein the cavity (16) is defined by a base portion (20) and upstanding front (22) and rear (24) wall portions of the housing (14). It will be appreciated that the shape of the housing (14) is such that it acts as a bracket for receiving and retaining the charging receptacle portion of a portable electronic device (12).
  • this configuration In addition to acting as a bracket that cradles the electronic device (12) to effectively combine the charging apparatus and the electronic device into a single unit, this configuration also facilitates transportation of the charging apparatus and electronic device components during charging since the ability of the charging apparatus (10) to engage the electronic device (12) in the manner described gives rise to increased stability, and requires reduced effort on the part of a user carrying the charging apparatus and electronic device (not shown) since the charging electronic device (12) can easily be stored during charging, e.g. in the user’s pocket during travel.
  • Additional features of the portable wireless charging apparatus (10) shown in Figures 1-8 include a power button (26) that enables the apparatus (10) to be switched on and off as required.
  • the series of LEDs (28) may also indicate a battery life associated with the battery of the charging apparatus (10).
  • a battery life associated with the battery of the charging apparatus (10) there are four LEDs used to display a percentage of charge left in the I battery of the charging apparatus (10), whereby the illumination of one LED in a first colour may indicate approximately 25% battery life or less, the illumination of two LEDs in the first colour may indicate approximately 50% battery life, the illumination of three LEDs in the first colour may indicate approximately 75% battery life, and the illumination of all four LEDs in the first colour may indicate 100% battery life.
  • alternate configurations and/or arrangements of LEDs may be utilised to indicate the percentage of charge left in battery of charging apparatus (10).
  • the apparatus (10) shown in Figures 1-8 further includes a charging receptacle (30) which enables charging of the battery located inside the housing chamber.
  • the charging receptacle (30) therefore enables the battery of the charging apparatus (10) to be recharged.
  • the power control circuit disposed in the housing chamber may include, for example, a 5V adapter input including bidirectional energy flow control with an automatic input power source detection to enable switching between a battery charging mode and a battery power supply mode.
  • the apparatus (10) operating in said battery charging mode will cause the battery associated with the apparatus (10) to charge a docked portable electronic device (12) via the power supply connector (18).
  • the charging apparatus (10) When the mode is switched to a battery power supply mode, and a power cable (not shown) is plugged into the charging receptacle (30), the battery associated with the charging apparatus (10) is caused to receive charge from an external power supply via the first charging receptacle (30).
  • the charging apparatus (10) may be configured such that its operation is switchable between a first mode in which the internal battery associated with the electronic device (12) is charged, and a second mode in which the battery associated with the charging apparatus (10) is charged.
  • the power control circuit may be configured to allow for both batteries (i.e., the internal battery of the electronic device (12) and the battery of the charging apparatus (10)) to be charged simultaneously. Since the charging receptacle (30) is separated away from and hence does not obstruct the docking of the electronic device (12) or the operation of the connector (18) used to charge the electronic device (12), even when a power cable is attached to the receptacle (30), the charging of both batteries can occur simultaneously, if required.
  • batteries i.e., the internal battery of the electronic device (12) and the battery of the charging apparatus (10)
  • the charging apparatus (10) is designed to enable docking of various different electronic devices (12) including mobile phones, tablets and portable audio playback devices.
  • the docking cavity (16) may be shaped to accommodate a plurality of different electronic devices of varying size and shape.
  • the portable wireless charging apparatus (10) shown in Figures 1 -8 is capable of docking any one of a mobile phone, a tablet or a portable playback device at any one time, and this is due to the shape and configuration of the docking cavity (16).
  • a docking cavity (16) configured in accordance with the embodiment shown in Figures 1-8 is capable of accommodating the charging receptacle portion of an Apple Air Pod ®. It will be further appreciated that the same portable wireless charging apparatus (10) can be used to dock an Apple iPhone ® without the need to alter any aspect of the portable wireless charging apparatus (10). Whilst not shown, the same apparatus (10) could also be used to dock an Apple iPad ® (not shown), again without altering any physical aspect of the apparatus (10).
  • the upstanding front (22) and rear (24) walls will need to be sufficiently spaced apart to accommodate the charging receptacle portion of the electronic device (12) received in the cavity (16) for charging.
  • the upstanding front (22) and rear (24) walls may further include one or more surfaces that are correspondingly shaped with the charging receptacle portion of the electronic device (12) received in the cavity (16), in order to facilitate cradling thereof.
  • shown in Figures 1-8 are opposing curved surfaces (32) which correspond with the curved external surface of an Apple Air Pod ® that is received in the cavity (16), as shown in Figure 9.
  • the cavity (16) does not include end walls (i.e. is open on either end of the cavity), and the skilled addressee will appreciate that this is to ensure that larger devices such as tablets that will extend beyond the elongate dimension of the cavity (16) may also be accommodated whilst being docked therein for charging.
  • the portable wireless charging apparatus (10) may further include a second charging receptacle (not shown) for optionally charging a second electronic device (12), e.g. while a first electronic device (12) is docked in the docking cavity and independently charging.
  • a second charging receptable (not shown) may be located on an opposite side of the device (i.e., on the opposite side of the charging receptable (30)).
  • the charging receptacle (30) used to provide charge to the battery of the charging apparatus (10) may be configured to also provide charge to an internal battery of a second device (12) via a detachable cable.
  • the componentry held inside the housing chamber of the charging apparatus (10) may be any suitably sized componentry capable of safely providing battery charge to one or more electronic devices (12), and will need to be arranged in a compact manner to allow for the housing to be shaped and configured in the manner described and illustrated.
  • the power control circuit disposed in the housing chamber of charging apparatus (10) may include various additional componentry including, but not limited to, a single-chip microcomputer including one or more of an input detection circuit, an over voltage detection circuit, an under-voltage detection circuit and an over-current protection circuit.
  • the apparatus (10) will be able to provide 85% to 100% charge to an internal battery associated with a standard smart phone, such as an Apple Iphone® for example.
  • a standard smart phone such as an Apple Iphone® for example.
  • smart phones When such smart phones are fully charged, they should subsequently remain charged for a period of up to 6 to 8 hours.
  • the charging apparatus (10) could be purchased by a user as a stand-alone item, whereby the user already owns an electronic device (12) and is seeking to purchase a product which they can use to charge the internal battery of their existing electronic device (12).
  • the apparatus (10) will be made available for purchase together with a portable electronic device (12) such as a mobile phone, tablet or audio streaming device, such that when a consumer purchases a device, they will also receive a charging apparatus for charging the device.
  • the apparatus (10) provides a portable, compact device for charging portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets and portable streaming devices by simply docking such devices into a cavity (16) associated with the apparatus (10). Given that the overall footprint of the device (12) being charged does not significantly increase as a result of being docked to the apparatus (10), a user may charge their device (12) much more easily and comfortably as compared with known portable charging stations such as power banks which require the use of connecting cables and the like.
  • the user may simply attach their mobile phone to the charging apparatus (10) and place the combined unit into their pocket as opposed to having to locate a surface upon which the device (12) as well as a bulky power bank may be placed, and then having to ensure that they have a cable for connecting the two components to effect charging of the device.
  • the apparatus (10) therefore represents a truly portable solution for charging portable electronic devices and is particularly useful for use during travel, when a user’s hands or other support surface may not be available for carrying or supporting such devices.
  • the apparatus (10) is small in size and configured to receive a portion of the device body inside the apparatus cavity (16), the apparatus (10) is less noticeable (as compared with existing chargers) when the device (12) is docked thereto.
  • the dimensions of the charging apparatus (10) are approximately 75 mm in length, 25 mm in width and 40 mm in height.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Power Engineering (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Charge And Discharge Circuits For Batteries Or The Like (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a portable wireless charging apparatus for charging an internal battery of a portable electronic device, the apparatus including a housing that internally defines a chamber in which is disposed a charging apparatus battery and a power control circuit to manage usage of the charging apparatus battery, and externally defines a docking cavity configured to receive and releasably connect with a charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device, wherein the docking cavity includes a power supply connector that projects inside the docking cavity such that the connector is received in a charging receptacle of the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device when docked to the charging apparatus, wherein the connector provides electrical power from the charging apparatus battery to the internal battery of the docked portable electronic device, and wherein the housing is shaped to substantially cradle the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device when the device is docked to the charging apparatus.

Description

PORTABLE WIRELESS CHARGING APPARATUS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a portable wireless charging apparatus, and more particularly to a portable charging apparatus configured to enable a mobile electronic device to be plugged into the portable charging apparatus for charging the device without any connecting cables, and whereby the apparatus is dimensioned to facilitate transportation of the device during charging.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Portable smart devices are ubiquitous in modern society. An example of a portable smart device is a smartphone, i.e. a mobile phone (also known as a cell phone) equipped with advanced computing capability and connectivity to perform more tasks than a basic mobile phone. Another example of a portable smart device is a tablet which is a portable touch screen miniature computer. However, unlike computers which typically need to be plugged into a power source, portable smart devices typically include a battery as the sole power source which enables the devices to be carried with users. Therefore, the operation of such devices is limited by their battery capacity, and it can be very inconvenient for users when their device batteries are depleted and there is no means of charging the device nearby. The problem of devices running out of battery charge has been exacerbated in recent years with the advancement of video streaming and similar services which, due to the constant requirement for the device to exchange cellular data, are particularly consuming of battery life.
[0003] An apparatus that is commonly used to address the abovementioned problem is a portable charging station, commonly known as a “power bank”. Users often take power banks with them to prevent their portable smart devices from running out of battery charge. However, a cable is usually required to charge the portable smart device, with a USB connector end plugged into the power bank and the other end (typically a micro USB connector end) configured for plugging into a power socket of the device. Whilst power banks are effective in providing a portable means of charging a smart device, they have a number of disadvantages. As described above, power banks usually require the use of a detachable cable to connect the power bank to the device. Therefore, multiple components are required to be carried by the user, and if the user happens to forget to bring one or more components (e.g. the cable), the portable smart device cannot be charged.
[0004] Further, such power banks tend to be heavy, bulky items and the cords tend to be very short, which means they are not convenient or comfortable to use particularly when a user is travelling (e.g. walking). In this regard, a user will typically need to use both hands to effect charging of the device, i.e. one hand to carry the power bank and the other hand positioned nearby to carry the device being charged. Still further, power banks known to the present Applicant are not easily stored and are not aesthetically pleasing.
[0005] There exist wireless charging devices which allow devices to be charged wirelessly (i.e. without the requirement to connect the device to the charging dock using a cable), however, these are not suitable when users are travelling since the charging dock needs to be plugged into a power supply such as a wall socket and hence does not represent a portable solution.
[0006] The apparatus of the present invention seeks to address the above identified problems or at least provide an alternative solution to same.
[0007] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any suggestion, that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In one aspect, the present invention provides a portable wireless charging apparatus for charging an internal battery of a portable electronic device, the apparatus including a housing that internally defines a chamber in which is disposed a charging apparatus battery and a power control circuit to manage usage of the charging apparatus battery, and externally defines a docking cavity configured to receive and releasably connect with a charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device, wherein the docking cavity includes a power supply connector that projects inside the docking cavity such that the connector is received in a charging receptacle of the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device when docked to the charging apparatus, wherein the connector provides electrical power from the charging apparatus battery to the internal battery of the docked portable electronic device, and wherein the housing is shaped to substantially cradle the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device when the device is docked to the charging apparatus.
[0009] In an embodiment, the housing of the portable wireless charging apparatus is substantially U-shaped, wherein the cavity is defined by a base portion and two upstanding front and rear wall portions of the housing. The apparatus thereby acts as a bracket for receiving the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device. The ability of the charging apparatus to act as a bracket that cradles or “wraps around” the portable electronic device causes the portable electronic device and the portable wireless charging apparatus to be combined into a single unit rather than two separate units that need to be connected using a detachable cable. This configuration also facilitates transportation of the components during charging since the ability of the charging apparatus to engage the electronic device in the manner described above gives rise to increased stability, and requires reduced effort on the part of the user since the docked electronic device can easily be stored, e.g. in the user’s pocket whilst receiving charge from the charging apparatus.
[0010] In an embodiment, the portable wireless charging apparatus further includes a power button to enable a user to switch the electronic device on and off. In a particular embodiment, the power button is located on a front surface of the housing.
[0011] In an embodiment, the portable wireless charging apparatus further includes one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) for indicating when the electronic device is switched on. In a particular embodiment, the LEDs are located on a rear surface of the housing.
[0012] The portable wireless charging apparatus may include a series of LEDs that indicate a battery life associated with the internal battery of a docked electronic device. For example, according to a particular embodiment, the housing includes four LEDs to display a percentage of charge left in the internal battery of the electronic device, whereby the illumination of one LED in a first colour indicates approximately 25% battery life, the illumination of two LEDs in the first colour indicates approximately 50% battery life, the illumination of three LEDs in the first colour indicates approximately 75% battery life, and the illumination of all four LEDs in the first colour indicates 100% battery life. In this embodiment, the LEDs may be configured to also illuminate in a second colour, e.g. one or more LEDs illuminated in a second colour to indicate less than approximately 25% battery life. Alternatively, instead of using different colours, the LEDs may be configured to illuminate a single colour and that commence flashing when the battery approaches a lower end of percentage battery life, for example, less than approximately 25% of battery life.
[0013] In an embodiment, the portable wireless charging apparatus further includes a first charging receptacle which enables charging of the charging apparatus battery disposed inside the housing chamber. The first charging receptacle therefore enables the battery of the charging apparatus to be recharged when not in use.
[0014] In an embodiment, the docking cavity is shaped to accommodate one of a plurality of different electronic devices of varying size and shape. In a particular embodiment, the docking cavity is shaped to accommodate, at any one time, a mobile phone (also known as a smart phone or cell phone) such as an Apple Iphone®, or a tablet such as an Apple Ipad®, or a portable audio playback/streaming device such as an Apple Airpod®. However, the housing (and associated power supply connector) may be configured to accommodate other devices of different size and shape, including Android® devices.
[0015] In an embodiment, the upstanding front and rear walls are sufficiently spaced apart to accommodate the charging receptacle portion of the electronic device received in the cavity for charging. [0016] In an embodiment, the upstanding front and rear walls further include one or more surfaces that are correspondingly shaped with the charging receptacle portion of the electronic device received in the cavity to facilitate cradling thereof.
[0017] In an embodiment, the power control circuit disposed in the housing chamber includes a 5V adapter input including bidirectional energy flow control with an automatic input power source detection to enable switching between a battery charging mode and a battery power supply mode. The battery charging mode is operable to cause the charging apparatus battery to charge the internal battery of the portable electronic device, and the battery power supply mode is operable to cause the charging apparatus battery to receive charge from an external power supply.
[0018] In an embodiment, the power control circuit disposed in the housing chamber further includes a single-chip microcomputer including one or more of: an input detection circuit, an over-voltage detection circuit, an under-voltage detection circuit, and an over-current protection circuit.
[0019] In an embodiment, the portable wireless charging apparatus further includes a second charging receptacle for optionally charging an internal battery of a second electronic device whilst a first electronic device is docked in the docking cavity and independently charging.
[0020] In an embodiment, the size of the portable charging apparatus battery disposed in the housing chamber of the portable charging apparatus is 700mAh. In an alternate embodiment, the size of the portable charging apparatus battery disposed in the housing chamber of the portable charging apparatus is 3000mAh. In a further alternate embodiment, the size of the portable charging apparatus battery disposed in the housing chamber of the portable charging apparatus is 5000mAh. In a particular embodiment, the size of the portable charging apparatus battery is 3000mAh with a 5 Volt / 1 .5 Amp Output, providing approximately 2 hours of useful battery life. In another particular embodiment, the size of the portable charging apparatus battery is 5000mAh with a 5 Volt / 1 ,5 Amp Output, providing approximately 2 hours of useful battery life. [0021] In another aspect, the present invention provides a portable electronic device assembly, including a portable electronic device that includes an internal battery and a charging receptacle portion that enables charging of the internal battery when a power supply connector is attached thereto, and a portable wireless charging apparatus configured in accordance with any one or more of the preceding statements.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] Features of the present disclosure are illustrated by way of example and not limited in the following figure(s), in which like numerals indicate like elements, in which:
[0023] Figure 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a portable wireless charging apparatus configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0024] Figure 2 illustrates a rear perspective view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
[0025] Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
[0026] Figure 4 illustrates a further rear perspective view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
[0027] Figure 5 illustrates a right side view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
[0028] Figure 6 illustrates a rear view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
[0029] Figure 7 illustrates a left side view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
[0030] Figure 8 illustrates a front view of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1.
[0031] Figure 9 illustrates various different views of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1 including a docked portable audio playback/streaming device.
[0032] Figure 10 illustrates various views of the portable wireless charging apparatus of Figure 1 including a docked mobile phone. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(S) OF THE INVENTION
[0033] For simplicity and illustrative purposes, the present disclosure is described by referring to embodiment(s) thereof. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. It will be readily apparent however, that the present disclosure may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, some methods and structures have not been described in detail to avoid obscuring the present disclosure.
[0034] The present invention relates to a portable wireless charging apparatus (10) in respect of which an embodiment is depicted in various different views in Figures 1 -8. The apparatus (10) is operable to charge a portable electronic device (12) of the type that includes an internal battery (not shown) and a charging receptacle (not shown) that enables charging of the device’s internal battery when a power supply connector (not shown) is attached thereto. Devices (12) configured to have their batteries charged by such apparatus (10) include mobile phones, tablets and audio playback devices, as described in greater detail below.
[0035] It will become apparent that an apparatus (10) configured in accordance with the embodiment described is effectively a miniature docking station for receiving a charging receptacle portion of the body of a portable electronic device (12), and for charging the internal battery associated with the portable electronic device (12). In particular, the apparatus (10) is of a shape, size and configuration to engage with the electronic device (12) in a manner that causes the electronic device (12) and the charging apparatus (10) to be combined into a single, transportable unit, rather than two separate units that need to be connected by a detachable cable.
[0036] In this regard, the portable wireless charging apparatus (10) includes a housing (14) that internally defines a chamber (not shown) in which is disposed a battery (not shown) and a power control circuit (not shown) to manage usage of the battery. Externally, the housing (14) defines a docking cavity (16) configured to receive and releasably connect with the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device (12), e.g. the middle portion of an audio streaming device as shown in Figure 9, or the end portion of a mobile phone as shown in Figure 10. In particular, the docking cavity (16) includes a power supply connector (18) that projects into the docking cavity such that the connector (18) is received in the charging receptacle (not shown) of the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device (12) as the device (12) is inserted into the cavity (16). Each of the connector (18) of the charging apparatus (10) and charging receptacle (not shown) of the electronic device (12) will be configured to engage with each other once the connector (18) is inserted a sufficient distance into the receptacle, as is well known. For example, the cavity (16) may be dimensioned to receive and engage the device (12) using a snap-fit configuration, wherein the device, when in a fully engaged position, is prevented from being lifted out of the cavity without a minimum amount of pulling force being applied. Once engaged, the connector (18) provides electrical power from the charging apparatus battery to the internal battery of the docked portable electronic device (12).
[0037] Skilled persons will appreciate that connector (18) could be different to that depicted in Figures 1-8 and may evolve as new electronic device models (e.g., phones) are released. Therefore connector (18) may be shaped and dimensioned so as to suit any newly released device models.
[0038] The housing (14) is shaped to substantially cradle or “wrap around” the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device (12) when the device is docked to the charging apparatus (10). In the particular embodiment shown in Figures 1 - 8, the housing (10) of the portable wireless charging apparatus (10) is substantially U- shaped, wherein the cavity (16) is defined by a base portion (20) and upstanding front (22) and rear (24) wall portions of the housing (14). It will be appreciated that the shape of the housing (14) is such that it acts as a bracket for receiving and retaining the charging receptacle portion of a portable electronic device (12). In addition to acting as a bracket that cradles the electronic device (12) to effectively combine the charging apparatus and the electronic device into a single unit, this configuration also facilitates transportation of the charging apparatus and electronic device components during charging since the ability of the charging apparatus (10) to engage the electronic device (12) in the manner described gives rise to increased stability, and requires reduced effort on the part of a user carrying the charging apparatus and electronic device (not shown) since the charging electronic device (12) can easily be stored during charging, e.g. in the user’s pocket during travel. [0039] Additional features of the portable wireless charging apparatus (10) shown in Figures 1-8 include a power button (26) that enables the apparatus (10) to be switched on and off as required. In the embodiment shown, the power button (26) is located on a front surface of the housing (14) and may have associated therewith one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) which illuminate when the power button is switched on for example. Also shown in the embodiment of Figures 1 -8 is a series of light emitting diodes (LEDs) (28) on the rear surface of the housing (14) which may also be configured to provide a visual indication of when the electronic device (12) is switched on.
[0040] In a particular embodiment, the series of LEDs (28) may also indicate a battery life associated with the battery of the charging apparatus (10). For example, in the embodiment of Figures 1 -8, there are four LEDs used to display a percentage of charge left in the I battery of the charging apparatus (10), whereby the illumination of one LED in a first colour may indicate approximately 25% battery life or less, the illumination of two LEDs in the first colour may indicate approximately 50% battery life, the illumination of three LEDs in the first colour may indicate approximately 75% battery life, and the illumination of all four LEDs in the first colour may indicate 100% battery life. However, it is to be understood that alternate configurations and/or arrangements of LEDs may be utilised to indicate the percentage of charge left in battery of charging apparatus (10). Further, the LEDs may be configured to commence flashing when the battery approaches a lower end of percentage battery life, for example, less than approximately 25% of battery life to thereby provide a visual alert that the battery life is low. In one or more alternative embodiments, the LEDs may be configured to also illuminate in one or more additional colours. For example, when there is more than one LED illuminated, they may be illuminated in the colour green. However, when only one LED is illuminated to indicate less than approximately 25% battery life in the charging apparatus (10), the single LED may illuminated in the colour red for example in order to provide a visual alert that the battery life is low.
[0041] In order to enable recharging of the battery (not shown) associated with the charging apparatus (10), the apparatus (10) shown in Figures 1-8 further includes a charging receptacle (30) which enables charging of the battery located inside the housing chamber. The charging receptacle (30) therefore enables the battery of the charging apparatus (10) to be recharged. [0042] According to one embodiment, the power control circuit disposed in the housing chamber may include, for example, a 5V adapter input including bidirectional energy flow control with an automatic input power source detection to enable switching between a battery charging mode and a battery power supply mode. The apparatus (10) operating in said battery charging mode will cause the battery associated with the apparatus (10) to charge a docked portable electronic device (12) via the power supply connector (18). When the mode is switched to a battery power supply mode, and a power cable (not shown) is plugged into the charging receptacle (30), the battery associated with the charging apparatus (10) is caused to receive charge from an external power supply via the first charging receptacle (30). In other words, the charging apparatus (10) may be configured such that its operation is switchable between a first mode in which the internal battery associated with the electronic device (12) is charged, and a second mode in which the battery associated with the charging apparatus (10) is charged.
[0043] In an alternate embodiment, the power control circuit may be configured to allow for both batteries (i.e., the internal battery of the electronic device (12) and the battery of the charging apparatus (10)) to be charged simultaneously. Since the charging receptacle (30) is separated away from and hence does not obstruct the docking of the electronic device (12) or the operation of the connector (18) used to charge the electronic device (12), even when a power cable is attached to the receptacle (30), the charging of both batteries can occur simultaneously, if required.
[0044] As described earlier, the charging apparatus (10) is designed to enable docking of various different electronic devices (12) including mobile phones, tablets and portable audio playback devices. In this regard, the docking cavity (16) may be shaped to accommodate a plurality of different electronic devices of varying size and shape. For example, the portable wireless charging apparatus (10) shown in Figures 1 -8 is capable of docking any one of a mobile phone, a tablet or a portable playback device at any one time, and this is due to the shape and configuration of the docking cavity (16).
[0045] It will be appreciated in Figure 9 that a docking cavity (16) configured in accordance with the embodiment shown in Figures 1-8 is capable of accommodating the charging receptacle portion of an Apple Air Pod ®. It will be further appreciated that the same portable wireless charging apparatus (10) can be used to dock an Apple iPhone ® without the need to alter any aspect of the portable wireless charging apparatus (10). Whilst not shown, the same apparatus (10) could also be used to dock an Apple iPad ® (not shown), again without altering any physical aspect of the apparatus (10).
[0046] For example, the upstanding front (22) and rear (24) walls will need to be sufficiently spaced apart to accommodate the charging receptacle portion of the electronic device (12) received in the cavity (16) for charging. The upstanding front (22) and rear (24) walls may further include one or more surfaces that are correspondingly shaped with the charging receptacle portion of the electronic device (12) received in the cavity (16), in order to facilitate cradling thereof. For example, shown in Figures 1-8 are opposing curved surfaces (32) which correspond with the curved external surface of an Apple Air Pod ® that is received in the cavity (16), as shown in Figure 9. It will also be appreciated that the cavity (16) does not include end walls (i.e. is open on either end of the cavity), and the skilled addressee will appreciate that this is to ensure that larger devices such as tablets that will extend beyond the elongate dimension of the cavity (16) may also be accommodated whilst being docked therein for charging.
[0047] Whilst Apple ® products have been described and illustrated in Figures 9 and 10, it is to be understood that the apparatus (10) could equally well be shaped, sized and/or configured to accommodate other devices, including Android ® devices, by altering the internal dimension of the cavity (16) accordingly.
[0048] Whilst not shown, the portable wireless charging apparatus (10) may further include a second charging receptacle (not shown) for optionally charging a second electronic device (12), e.g. while a first electronic device (12) is docked in the docking cavity and independently charging. For example, a second charging receptable (not shown) may be located on an opposite side of the device (i.e., on the opposite side of the charging receptable (30)). In another embodiment, the charging receptacle (30) used to provide charge to the battery of the charging apparatus (10) may be configured to also provide charge to an internal battery of a second device (12) via a detachable cable. In other words, a second electronic device (12) may be connected to receptacle (30) using an appropriate cable to enable charging of the internal battery associated with a second electronic device (12). In this way, two or more devices (12) can be charged at the same time using a single charging apparatus (10).
[0049] The componentry held inside the housing chamber of the charging apparatus (10) may be any suitably sized componentry capable of safely providing battery charge to one or more electronic devices (12), and will need to be arranged in a compact manner to allow for the housing to be shaped and configured in the manner described and illustrated.
[0050] The power control circuit disposed in the housing chamber of charging apparatus (10) may include various additional componentry including, but not limited to, a single-chip microcomputer including one or more of an input detection circuit, an over voltage detection circuit, an under-voltage detection circuit and an over-current protection circuit.
[0051] The size of the charging apparatus battery disposed in the housing chamber of the portable charging apparatus (10) may be selected depending upon the type of device with which the apparatus (10) is configured to operate. For example, the charging apparatus battery could be a Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) battery ranging in size from 700mAh up to 5000mAh. For the devices shown in the embodiments of Figures 9 and 10, an appropriate battery size that may be selected for providing approximately 2 hours of useful battery life would be a 3000mAh battery with a 5Volt / 1 .5amp output. In this regard, it is estimated that if the apparatus (10) has 2 hours of useful battery life, the apparatus (10) will be able to provide 85% to 100% charge to an internal battery associated with a standard smart phone, such as an Apple Iphone® for example. When such smart phones are fully charged, they should subsequently remain charged for a period of up to 6 to 8 hours.
[0052] It is to be understood that the charging apparatus (10) could be purchased by a user as a stand-alone item, whereby the user already owns an electronic device (12) and is seeking to purchase a product which they can use to charge the internal battery of their existing electronic device (12). However, it is also envisaged that the apparatus (10) will be made available for purchase together with a portable electronic device (12) such as a mobile phone, tablet or audio streaming device, such that when a consumer purchases a device, they will also receive a charging apparatus for charging the device.
[0053] The benefits of the present invention should now be appreciated. The apparatus (10) provides a portable, compact device for charging portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets and portable streaming devices by simply docking such devices into a cavity (16) associated with the apparatus (10). Given that the overall footprint of the device (12) being charged does not significantly increase as a result of being docked to the apparatus (10), a user may charge their device (12) much more easily and comfortably as compared with known portable charging stations such as power banks which require the use of connecting cables and the like.
[0054] For example, if a user is travelling home from work with a mobile phone with depleted battery, the user may simply attach their mobile phone to the charging apparatus (10) and place the combined unit into their pocket as opposed to having to locate a surface upon which the device (12) as well as a bulky power bank may be placed, and then having to ensure that they have a cable for connecting the two components to effect charging of the device. Not only is this cumbersome, it is not possible in certain scenarios, e.g. during mobile activities such as walking, running or cycling. The apparatus (10) therefore represents a truly portable solution for charging portable electronic devices and is particularly useful for use during travel, when a user’s hands or other support surface may not be available for carrying or supporting such devices. Since the apparatus (10) is small in size and configured to receive a portion of the device body inside the apparatus cavity (16), the apparatus (10) is less noticeable (as compared with existing chargers) when the device (12) is docked thereto. In this regard, in a particular embodiment, the dimensions of the charging apparatus (10) are approximately 75 mm in length, 25 mm in width and 40 mm in height.
[0055] Throughout this specification and claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise”, and variations such as “comprises” and “comprising”, will be understood to mean the inclusion of a stated feature or step, or group of features or steps, but not the exclusion of any other feature or step, or group of features or steps.
[0056] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

Claims

The claims defining the invention are as follows:
1. A portable wireless charging apparatus for charging an internal battery of a portable electronic device, the apparatus including: a housing that: internally defines a chamber in which is disposed a charging apparatus battery and a power control circuit to manage usage of the charging apparatus battery, and externally defines a docking cavity configured to receive and releasably connect with a charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device, wherein the docking cavity includes a power supply connector that projects inside the docking cavity such that the connector is received in a charging receptacle of the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device when docked to the charging apparatus, wherein the connector provides electrical power from the charging apparatus battery to the internal battery of the docked portable electronic device, and wherein the housing is shaped to substantially cradle the charging receptacle portion of the portable electronic device when the device is docked to the charging apparatus.
2. A portable charging apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the housing is substantially U-shaped and wherein the cavity is defined by a base portion and two upstanding front and rear wall portions of the housing.
3. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to either claim 1 or claim 2, further including a power button enabling the docked portable electronic device to be switched on and off.
4. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the power button is located on a front surface of the housing.
5. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, further including one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) for indicating when the device is switched on.
6. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the LEDs are located on a rear surface of the housing.
7. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims including a series of LEDs that indicate a battery life associated with the battery of the charging apparatus.
8. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims further including a first charging receptacle enabling charging of the charging apparatus battery disposed inside the housing chamber.
9. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the docking cavity is shaped to accommodate one of a plurality of different electronic devices of varying size and shape.
10. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the upstanding front and rear walls are sufficiently spaced apart to accommodate the charging receptacle portion of the electronic device received in the cavity for charging.
11. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the upstanding front and rear walls further include one or more surfaces that are correspondingly shaped with the charging receptacle portion of the electronic device received in the cavity to facilitate cradling thereof.
12. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein either side of the docking cavity is open to thereby enable devices having a width larger than the width of the apparatus to be accommodated.
13. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the power control circuit disposed in the housing chamber includes a 5V adapter input including bidirectional energy flow control with an automatic input power source detection to enable switching between a battery charging mode and a battery power supply mode.
14. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the battery charging mode is operable to cause the charging apparatus battery to charge the internal battery of the portable electronic device, and the battery power supply mode is operable to cause the charging apparatus battery to receive charge from an external power supply.
15. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the power control circuit disposed in the housing chamber further includes a single-chip microcomputer including any one or more of: an input detection circuit, an over-voltage detection circuit, an under-voltage detection circuit, and an over-current protection circuit.
16. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the charging receptable is further configured to receive a detachable cable to thereby enable a second electronic device to optionally be connected, through the detachable cable, to the charging apparatus and thereby enable an internal battery of the second electronic device to be charged.
17. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims further including a second charging receptacle for optionally charging an internal battery associated with a second electronic device whilst a first electronic device is docked in the docking cavity and the internal battery of same is independently charging.
18. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the size of the charging apparatus battery disposed in the housing chamber of the portable charging apparatus is in the range of 700mAh - 5000mAh.
19. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the size of the charging apparatus battery is 3000mAh with a 5 Volt / 1 .5 Amp Output.
20. A portable wireless charging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the size of the charging apparatus battery is 5000mAh with a 5 Volt / 1 .5 Amp Output.
21 . A portable electronic device assembly, including: a portable electronic device that includes an internal battery and a charging receptacle located on a charging receptacle portion of the device that enables charging of the internal battery when a power supply connector is attached thereto, and a portable wireless charging apparatus configured in accordance with any one or more of the preceding claims.
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