Patent ID: 12224599

In accordance with common practice, the various features illustrated in the drawings may not be drawn to scale. Accordingly, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity. In addition, some of the drawings may not depict all of the components of a given system, method or device. Finally, like reference numerals may be used to denote like features throughout the specification and figures.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the various described embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments.

FIG.1Ais a block diagram of components of wireless power transmission environment100, in accordance with some embodiments. Wireless power transmission environment100includes, for example, transmitters102(e.g., transmitters102a,102b. . .102n), and one or more receivers120(e.g., receivers120a,120b. . .120n). In some embodiments, each respective wireless power transmission environment100includes a number of receivers120(also referred to as wireless-power-receiving circuitry), each of which is associated with a respective electronic device122. In some instances, the transmitter102is referred to herein as a “wireless-power-transmitting device” or a “wireless power transmitter.” Additionally, in some instances, the receiver120and the electronic device122a, when coupled together are collectively referred to herein as a “wireless-power-receiving device.”

An example transmitter102(e.g., transmitter102a) includes, for example, one or more processor(s)104, a memory106, one or more antenna arrays110, one or more communications components112(also referred to herein as a “wireless communications radio,” a “communications radio” or simply a “radio”), and/or one or more transmitter sensors114. In some embodiments, these components are interconnected by way of a communications bus107. References to these components of transmitters102cover embodiments in which one or more of these components (and combinations thereof) are included. The components are discussed in further detail below with reference toFIG.2.

In some embodiments, a single processor104(e.g., processor104of transmitter102a) executes software modules for controlling multiple transmitters102(e.g., transmitters102b. . .102n). In some embodiments, a single transmitter102(e.g., transmitter102a) includes multiple processors104, such as one or more transmitter processors (configured to, e.g., control transmission of signals116by antenna array110), one or more communications component processors (e.g., in some embodiments the communications component is configured to receive communications transmitted by a wireless-power-receiving device without opening a communication channel, for example this also can mean that no handshake protocol is necessary to allow the transmitter and receiving devices to communicate with one another during a wireless-charging process (as described in more detail below in reference toFIGS.4and5A-5C) and/or one or more sensor processors (configured to, e.g., control operation of transmitter sensor114and/or receive output from transmitter sensor114).

The receiver120receives power transmission signals116. In some embodiments, the receiver120includes one or more antennas124(e.g., an antenna array including multiple antenna elements), power converter126, receiver sensor128, and/or other components or circuitry (e.g., processor(s)140, memory142, and/or communication component(s)144. In some embodiments, these components are interconnected by way of a communications bus146. References to these components of receiver120cover embodiments in which one or more of these components (and combinations thereof) are included.

The receiver120converts energy from received signals116(also referred to herein as RF power transmission signals, or simply, RF signals, RF waves, power waves, or power transmission signals) into electrical energy to power and/or charge electronic device122. For example, the receiver120uses the power converter126to convert energy derived from power waves116to alternating current (AC) electricity or direct current (DC) electricity to power and/or charge the electronic device122. Non-limiting examples of the power converter126include rectifiers, rectifying circuits, voltage conditioners, among suitable circuitry and devices.

In some embodiments, the receiver120is a standalone device that is detachably coupled to one or more electronic devices122. For example, the electronic device122has processor(s)132for controlling one or more functions of the electronic device122, and the receiver120has processor(s)140for controlling one or more functions of the receiver120.

In some embodiments, the receiver120is a component of the electronic device122. For example, processors132control functions of the electronic device122and the receiver120. In addition, in some embodiments, the receiver120includes one or more processors140, which communicates with processors132of the electronic device122.

In some embodiments, the electronic device122includes one or more processors132, memory134, one or more communication components136, and/or one or more batteries130. In some embodiments, these components are interconnected by way of a communications bus138. In some embodiments, communications between electronic device122and receiver120occur via communications component(s)136and/or144. In some embodiments, communications between the electronic device122and the receiver120occur via a wired connection between communications bus138and communications bus146. In some embodiments, the electronic device122and the receiver120share a single communications bus.

In some embodiments, the receiver120receives one or more power waves116directly from the transmitter102(e.g., via one or more antennas124). In some embodiments, the receiver120harvests power waves from one or more pockets of energy created by one or more power waves116transmitted by the transmitter102. In some embodiments, the transmitter102is a near-field transmitter that transmits the one or more power waves116within a near-field distance (e.g., less than approximately six inches away from the transmitter102, or in some other examples, less than (approximately) twelve inches away from the transmitter102). In other embodiments, the transmitter102is a far-field transmitter that transmits the one or more power waves116within a far-field distance (e.g., more than approximately six inches away from the transmitter102, or in some other examples more than (approximately) twelve inches away from the transmitter102).

After the power waves116are received and/or energy is harvested from them, circuitry (e.g., integrated circuits, amplifiers, rectifiers, and/or voltage conditioner) of the receiver120converts the energy of the power waves to usable power (i.e., electricity), which powers the electronic device122and/or is stored to battery130of the electronic device122. In some embodiments, a rectifying circuit of the receiver120translates the electrical energy from AC to DC for use by the electronic device122. In some embodiments, a voltage conditioning circuit increases or decreases the voltage of the electrical energy as required by the electronic device122. In some embodiments, an electrical relay conveys electrical energy from the receiver120to the electronic device122.

In some embodiments, the electronic device122obtains power from multiple transmitters102and/or using multiple receivers120. In some embodiments, the wireless power transmission environment100includes a plurality of electronic devices122, each having at least one respective receiver120that is used to harvest power waves from the transmitters102into power for charging the electronic devices122.

In some embodiments, the one or more transmitters102adjust values of one or more characteristics (e.g., waveform characteristics, such as phase, gain, direction, amplitude, polarization, and/or frequency) of power waves116. For example, a transmitter102selects a subset of one or more antenna elements of antenna array110to initiate transmission of power waves116, cease transmission of power waves116, and/or adjust values of one or more characteristics used to transmit power waves116. In some embodiments, the one or more transmitters102adjust power waves116such that trajectories of power waves116converge at a predetermined location within a transmission field (e.g., a location or region in space), resulting in controlled constructive or destructive interference patterns. The transmitter102may adjust values of one or more characteristics for transmitting the power waves116to account for changes at the wireless power receiver that may negatively impact transmission of the power waves116. As described in more detail below, the adjustments made by the transmitter can be determined based on data provided in unidirectional communication signals from the wireless-power-receiving device (e.g., in which the communication component136of the device122acan be used to advertise data related to the receipt of RF power waves by the receiver120, as described in more detail below in reference toFIGS.4and5A-5C).

Note that, in some embodiments, the transmitter102utilizes beamforming techniques to wirelessly transfer power to a receiver120, while in other embodiments, the transmitter102does not utilize beamforming techniques to wirelessly transfer power to a receiver120(e.g., in circumstances in which no beamforming techniques are used, the transmitter controller IC160discussed below might be designed without any circuitry to allow for use of beamforming techniques, or that circuitry may be present, but might be deactivated to eliminate any beamforming control capability).

In some embodiments, respective antenna arrays110of the one or more transmitters102may include a set of one or more antennas configured to transmit the power waves116into respective transmission fields of the one or more transmitters102. Integrated circuits (FIG.1C) of the respective transmitter102, such as a controller circuit (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) and/or waveform generator, may control the behavior of the antennas. For example, based on the information received from the receiver120by way of the communication signal118(e.g., an advertisement such as a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) advertisement), a controller circuit (e.g., processor104of the transmitter102,FIG.1A) may determine values of the waveform characteristics (e.g., amplitude, frequency, trajectory, direction, phase, polarization, among other characteristics) of power waves116that would effectively provide power to the receiver120, and in turn, the electronic device122. The controller circuit may also identify a subset of antennas from the antenna arrays110that would be effective in transmitting the power waves116. In some embodiments, a waveform generator circuit (not shown inFIG.1A) of the respective transmitter102coupled to the processor104may convert energy and generate the power waves116having the specific values for the waveform characteristics identified by the processor104/controller circuit, and then provide the power waves to the antenna arrays110for transmission.

In some embodiments, the communications component112transmits communication signals118by way of a wired and/or wireless communication connection to the receiver120. In some embodiments, the communications component112does not transmit anything to the receiver120, and merely uses the communication component112to receive communications (e.g., BLE advertisements) from the receiver120. In some embodiments, when the communications component112does not transmit anything to the receiver120there is no established communication channel between the communications component112and the receiver120, which in some embodiments means that the receiving and transmitting devices do not need to go through a handshake protocol to allow for the receiving device to send BLE advertisements to the transmitting device. In some embodiments, the communications component112generates beacon signals118aused for triangulation of the receiver120(e.g., test signals). In some embodiments, the beacon signals118aare used to convey information regarding charging availability from the transmitter102to the receiver120. In some embodiments, the signals118aare used for adjusting values of one or more waveform characteristics used to transmit the power waves116(e.g., convey amounts of power derived from RF test signals). In some embodiments, the transmitter102does not need to convey information to the receiver120about adjusting values of one or more waveform characteristics to transmit power waves116, because the advertisements transmitted from the receiver convey all necessary information to allow the transmitter102to provide power to the receiver. In some embodiments, the beacon signals118ainclude information related to status, efficiency, user data, power consumption, billing, geo-location, and other types of information (as is described in more detail below). In some embodiments, unidirectional advertisement signals118bare used to convey information regarding charging requirements from the receiver120to the transmitter102. In some embodiments, only the unidirectional advertisement signals118btransmitted from the receiver120to the transmitter102include information related to status, efficiency, user data, power consumption, charging information, billing, geo-location, and other types of information.

In some embodiments, the communications component112includes a communications component antenna for communicating with the receiver120and/or other transmitters102(e.g., transmitters102bthrough102n). In some embodiments, these beacon signals118aunidirectional advertisement signals118bare sent using a first channel (e.g., a first frequency band) that is independent and distinct from a second channel (e.g., a second frequency band distinct from the first frequency band) used for transmission of the power waves116. In some embodiments, no channel is created between the transmitter102and the receiver120, and the communications component112receives incoming advertisements (e.g., BLE advertisements).

In some embodiments, the receiver120optionally includes a receiver-side communications component144(which can also be referred to herein as a second communications radio, while the communications component112can be referred to herein as a first communications radio) configured to communicate various types of data with one or more of the transmitters102, through a respective communication signal generated by the receiver-side communications component (in some embodiments, a respective communication signal is referred to as an advertising or advertisement signal). In other embodiments, the receiver120can be configured to use the communications component136of the device122afor the purpose of communicating the unidirectional communication advertisements discussed herein (the descriptions herein of the unidirectional advertisements apply to circumstances in which the receiver120uses its own communications component144, as well as to circumstances in which the receiver120uses the communications component136of the device122a). The data may include location indicators for the receiver120and/or electronic device122, a power status of the device122, status information for the receiver120, status information for the electronic device122(e.g., not charging, charging but needs more power, charging at optimal configured rate, charging but receiving too much power, any fault condition, etc.), status information about the power waves116(e.g., whether the electronic device122requires charging, battery is critical, whether the receiver is on the charger (e.g., transmitter102) or not (array voltage detected), etc.), and/or status information for pockets of energy. In other words, the receiver120may provide data to the transmitter102, by way of the beacon signals118aand/or unidirectional advertisement signals118bregarding the current operation of the system100, including: information identifying a present location of the receiver120or the device122, an amount of energy (i.e., usable power) received by the receiver120, and an amount of power received and/or used by the electronic device122, among other possible data points containing other types of information.

In some embodiments, the data contained within beacon signals118aand/or unidirectional advertisement signals118bis used by the electronic device122, the receiver120, and/or the transmitters102for determining adjustments to values of one or more waveform characteristics used by the antenna array110to transmit the power waves116. In some embodiments, the receiver120uses a beacon signals118aand/or unidirectional advertisement signals118bto communicate data for, e.g., alerting transmitters102that the receiver120has entered or is about to enter a transmission field (e.g., come within wireless-power-transmission range of a transmitter102), provide information about the electronic device122, provide user information that corresponds to the electronic device122, indicate the effectiveness of received power waves116, and/or provide updated characteristics or transmission parameters that the one or more transmitters102use to adjust transmission of the power waves116. In some embodiments, the alerting of transmitters occurs in response to the electronic device122detecting a transmitter beacon signal produced by the transmitter102. In some embodiments, the transmitter beacon signal is a low-power RF signal, such that the transmitter beacon signal has a lower power level relative to additional wireless-power-transmission signals that are transmitted subsequently after the transmitter has determined that the receiver is within a wireless-power-transmission range of the transmitter (an example of this is shown in the flowchart ofFIG.4).

In some embodiments, transmitter sensor114and/or receiver sensor128detect and/or identify conditions of the electronic device122, the receiver120, the transmitter102, and/or a transmission field. In some embodiments, data generated by the transmitter sensor114and/or receiver sensor128is used by the transmitter102to determine appropriate adjustments to values of one or more waveform characteristics used to transmit the power waves116. Data from transmitter sensor114and/or receiver sensor128received by the transmitter102includes, for example, raw sensor data and/or sensor data processed by a processor104, such as a sensor processor. Processed sensor data includes, for example, determinations based upon sensor data output. In some embodiments, sensor data received from sensors that are external to the receiver120and the transmitters102is also used (such as thermal imaging data, information from optical sensors, and others).

FIG.1Bis another block diagram of an RF wireless power transmission system150in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the RF wireless power transmission system150includes a far-field transmitter (not shown). In some embodiments, the RF wireless power transmission system150includes a near-field transmitter that, in some embodiments, can be part of an RF charging pad151(also referred to herein as a near-field (NF) charging pad151or RF charging pad151). The RF charging pad151may be an example of the transmitter102inFIG.1A.

In some embodiments, the RF charging pad151includes an RF power transmitter integrated circuit160(described in more detail below). In some embodiments, the RF charging pad151includes one or more communications components112(e.g., wireless communication components, such as WI-FI or BLUETOOTH radios). In some embodiments, the RF charging pad151also connects to one or more power amplifier units108-1, . . .108-n(PA or PA units) to control operation of the one or more power amplifier units when they drive external power-transfer elements (e.g., antennas290). In some embodiments, RF power is controlled and modulated at the RF charging pad151via switch circuitry as to enable the RF wireless power transmission system to send RF power to one or more wireless receiving devices via the TX antenna array110.

FIG.1Cis a block diagram of the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160(the “integrated circuit”) in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the integrated circuit160includes a CPU subsystem170, an external device control interface, an RF subsection for DC to RF power conversion, and analog and digital control interfaces interconnected via an interconnection component, such as a bus or interconnection fabric block171. In some embodiments, the CPU subsystem170includes a microprocessor unit (CPU)202with related Read-Only-Memory (ROM)172for device program booting via a digital control interface, e.g., an I2C port, to an external FLASH containing the CPU executable code to be loaded into the CPU Subsystem Random Access Memory (RAM)174(e.g., memory206,FIG.2A) or executed directly from FLASH. In some embodiments, the CPU subsystem170also includes an encryption module or block176to authenticate and secure communication exchanges with external devices, such as wireless power receivers that attempt to receive wirelessly delivered power from the RF charging pad150.

In some embodiments, the RF IC160also includes (or is in communication with) a power amplifier controller IC161A (PA IC) that is responsible for controlling and managing operations of a power amplifier (or multiple power amplifiers), including for reading measurements of impedance at various measurement points within the power amplifier108, whereby these measurements are used, in some instances, for detecting of foreign objects. The PA IC161A may be on the same integrated circuit at the RF IC160, or may be on its on integrated circuit that is separate from (but still in communication with) the RF IC160. Additional details regarding the architecture and operation of the PA IC are provided in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/03,677, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

In some embodiments, executable instructions running on the CPU (such as those shown in the memory106inFIG.2and described below) are used to manage operation of the RF charging pad151and to control external devices through a control interface, e.g., SPI control interface175, and the other analog and digital interfaces included in the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160. In some embodiments, the CPU subsystem also manages operation of the RF subsection of the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160, which includes an RF local oscillator (LO)177and an RF transmitter (TX)178. In some embodiments, the RF LO177is adjusted based on instructions from the CPU subsystem170and is thereby set to different desired frequencies of operation, while the RF TX converts, amplifies, modulates the RF output as desired to generate a viable RF power level.

In the descriptions that follow, various references are made to antenna zones and power-transfer zones, which terms are used synonymously in this disclosure. In some embodiments the antenna/power-transfer zones may include antenna elements that transmit propagating radio frequency waves but, in other embodiments, the antenna/power transfer zones may instead include capacitive charging couplers that convey electrical signals but do not send propagating radio frequency waves.

In some embodiments, the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160provides the viable RF power level (e.g., via the RF TX178) to an optional beamforming integrated circuit (IC)109, which then provides phase-shifted signals to one or more power amplifiers108. In some embodiments, the beamforming IC109is used to ensure that power transmission signals sent using two or more antennas210(e.g., each antenna210may be associated with a different antenna zone290or may each belong to a single antenna zone290) to a particular wireless power receiver are transmitted with appropriate characteristics (e.g., phases) to ensure that power transmitted to the particular wireless power receiver is maximized (e.g., the power transmission signals arrive in phase at the particular wireless power receiver). In some embodiments, the beamforming IC109forms part of the RF power transmitter IC160. In embodiments in which capacitive couplers (e.g., capacitive charging couplers244) are used as the antennas210, then optional beamforming IC109may not be included in the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160.

In some embodiments, the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160provides the viable RF power level (e.g., via the RF TX178) directly to the one or more power amplifiers108and does not use the beamforming IC109(or bypasses the beamforming IC if phase-shifting is not required, such as when only a single antenna210is used to transmit power transmission signals to a wireless power receiver). In some embodiments, the PA IC161A receives the viable RF power level and provides that to the one or more power amplifiers108.

In some embodiments, the one or more power amplifiers108then provide RF signals to the antenna zones290(also referred to herein as “power-transfer zones”) for transmission to wireless power receivers that are authorized to receive wirelessly delivered power from the RF charging pad151. In some embodiments, each antenna zone290is coupled with a respective PA108(e.g., antenna zone290-1is coupled with PA108-1and antenna zone290-N is coupled with PA108-N). In some embodiments, multiple antenna zones are each coupled with a same set of PAs108(e.g., all PAs108are coupled with each antenna zone290). Various arrangements and couplings of PAs108to antenna zones290allow the RF charging pad151to sequentially or selectively activate different antenna zones in order to determine the most efficient antenna zone290to use for transmitting wireless power to a wireless power receiver. In some embodiments, the one or more power amplifiers108are also in communication with the CPU subsystem170to allow the CPU202to measure output power provided by the PAs108to the antenna zones110of the RF charging pad151.

FIG.1Calso shows that, in some embodiments, the antenna zones290of the RF charging pad151may include one or more antennas210A-N. In some embodiments, each antenna zone of the plurality of antenna zones290includes one or more antennas210(e.g., antenna zone290-1includes one antenna210-A and antenna zones290-N includes multiple antennas210). In some embodiments, a number of antennas included in each of the antenna zones is dynamically defined based on various parameters, such as a location of a wireless power receiver on the RF charging pad151. In some embodiments, each antenna zone290may include antennas of different types, while in other embodiments each antenna zone290may include a single antenna of a same type, while in still other embodiments, the antennas zones may include some antenna zones that include a single antenna of a same type and some antenna zones that include antennas of different types. In some embodiments the antenna/power-transfer zones may also or alternatively include capacitive charging couplers that convey electrical signals but do not send propagating radio frequency waves.

In some embodiments, the RF charging pad151may also include a temperature monitoring circuit that is in communication with the CPU subsystem170to ensure that the RF charging pad151remains within an acceptable temperature range. For example, if a determination is made that the RF charging pad151has reached a threshold temperature, then operation of the RF charging pad151may be temporarily suspended until the RF charging pad151falls below the threshold temperature.

By including the components shown for RF power transmitter circuit160(FIG.1C) on a single chip, such transmitter chips are able to manage operations at the transmitter chips more efficiently and quickly (and with lower latency), thereby helping to improve user satisfaction with the charging pads that are managed by these transmitter chips. For example, the RF power transmitter circuit160is cheaper to construct, has a smaller physical footprint, and is simpler to install.

FIG.1Dis a block diagram of a charging pad294in accordance with some embodiments. The charging pad294is an example of the charging pad151(FIG.1B), however, one or more components included in the charging pad151are not included in the charging pad294for ease of discussion and illustration.

The charging pad294includes an RF power transmitter integrated circuit160, one or more power amplifiers108, a PA IC161A (which may be on the same or a separate IC from the RF power transmitter IC160), and a transmitter antenna array290having multiple antenna zones. Each of these components is described in detail above with reference toFIGS.1A-1C. Additionally, the charging pad294includes a switch295(i.e., transmitter-side switch), positioned between the power amplifiers108and the antenna array290, having a plurality of switches297-A,297-B, . . .297-N. The switch295is configured to switchably connect one or more power amplifiers108with one or more antenna zones of the antenna array290in response to control signals provided by the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160.

To accomplish the above, each switch297is coupled with (e.g., provides a signal pathway to) a different antenna zone of the antenna array290. For example, switch297-A may be coupled with a first antenna zone290-1(FIG.1C) of the antenna array290, switch297-B may be coupled with a second antenna zone290-2of the antenna array290, and so on. Each of the plurality of switches297-A,297-B, . . .297-N, once closed, creates a unique pathway between a respective power amplifier108(or multiple power amplifiers108) and a respective antenna zone of the antenna array290. Each unique pathway through the switch295is used to selectively provide RF signals to specific antenna zones of the antenna array290. It is noted that two or more of the plurality of switches297-A,297-B, . . .297-N may be closed at the same time, thereby creating multiple unique pathways to the antenna array290that may be used simultaneously.

In some embodiments, the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160(or the PA IC161A, or both) is (are) coupled to the switch295and is configured to control operation of the plurality of switches297-A,297-B, . . .297-N(illustrated as a “control out” signal inFIGS.1B and1D). For example, the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160may close a first switch297-A while keeping the other switches open. In another example, the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160may close a first switch297-A and a second switch297-B, and keep the other switches open (various other combinations and configuration are possible). Moreover, the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160is coupled to the one or more power amplifiers108and is configured to generate a suitable RF signal (e.g., the “RF Out” signal) and provide the RF signal to the one or more power amplifiers108. The one or more power amplifiers108, in turn, are configured to provide the RF signal to one or more antenna zones of the antenna array290via the switch295, depending on which switches297in the switch295are closed by the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160.

In some embodiments, the charging pad is configured to transmit test power transmission signals and/or regular power transmission signals using different antenna zones, e.g., depending on a location of a receiver on the charging pad. Accordingly, when a particular antenna zone is selected for transmitting test signals or regular power signals, a control signal is sent to the switch295from the RF power transmitter integrated circuit160to cause at least one switch297to close. In doing so, an RF signal from at least one power amplifier108can be provided to the particular antenna zone using a unique pathway created by the now-closed at least one switch297.

In some embodiments, the switch295may be part of (e.g., internal to) the antenna array290. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the switch295is separate from the antenna array290(e.g., the switch295may be a distinct component, or may be part of another component, such as the power amplifier(s)108). It is noted that any switch design capable of accomplishing the above may be used, and the design of the switch295illustrated inFIG.1Dis merely one example.

FIG.2is a block diagram illustrating a representative transmitter device102(also sometimes referred to herein as a transmitter102, a wireless power transmitter102, and a wireless-power-transmitting device102) in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the transmitter device102includes one or more processors104(e.g., CPUs, ASICs, FPGAs, microprocessors, and the like), one or more communication components112(e.g., radios), memory106, one or more antennas110, and one or more communication buses108for interconnecting these components (sometimes called a chipset). In some embodiments, the transmitter device102includes one or more sensors114as described above with reference toFIG.1A. In some embodiments, the transmitter device102includes one or more output devices such as one or more indicator lights, a sound card, a speaker, a small display for displaying textual information and error codes, etc. In some embodiments, the transmitter device102includes a location detection device, such as a GPS (global positioning satellite) or other geo-location receiver, for determining the location of the transmitter device102.

The communication components112enable communication between the transmitter102and the receiver120(e.g., one or more communication networks). In some embodiments, the communication components112include, e.g., hardware capable of data communications using any of a variety of wireless protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, Thread, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Smart, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, MiWi, etc.) wired protocols (e.g., Ethernet, HomePlug, etc.), and/or any other suitable communication protocol, including communication protocols not yet developed as of the filing date of this document.

The memory106includes high-speed random access memory, such as DRAM, SRAM, DDR SRAM, or other random access solid state memory devices; and, optionally, includes non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one or more flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid state storage devices. The memory106, or alternatively the non-volatile memory within memory106, includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. In some embodiments, the memory106, or the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of the memory106, stores the following programs, modules, and data structures, or a subset or superset thereof:operating logic216including procedures for handling various basic system services and for performing hardware dependent tasks;communication module218for coupling to and/or communicating with remote devices (e.g., remote sensors, transmitters, receivers, servers, etc.), in conjunction with communication component(s)112and/or antenna(s)110;sensor module220for obtaining and processing sensor data (e.g., in conjunction with sensor(s)114) to, for example, determine the presence, velocity, and/or positioning of object in the vicinity of the transmitter102;power wave generating module224for generating and transmitting (e.g., in conjunction with antenna(s)110) power waves. In some embodiments, the power wave generating module224receives instructions from the transmitter controller IC based on information provided by unidirectional communication signals received at the transmitter from the receiving device (an example of which is shown inFIG.4);database226, including but not limited to:sensor information228for storing and managing data received, detected, and/or transmitted by one or more sensors (e.g., sensors114and/or one or more remote sensors);communication protocol information234for storing and managing protocol information for one or more protocols (e.g., custom or standard wireless protocols, such as ZigBee, Z-Wave, etc., and/or custom or standard wired protocols, such as Ethernet).unidirectional advertisement structure237allows the first communications radio of the transmitting device to decipher information provided by a second communications radio of a receiving device in, e.g. a BLE advertisement signal.

Each of the above-identified elements (e.g., modules stored in memory106of the transmitter102) is optionally stored in one or more of the previously mentioned memory devices, and corresponds to a set of instructions for performing the function(s) described above. The above identified modules or programs (e.g., sets of instructions) need not be implemented as separate software programs, procedures, or modules, and thus various subsets of these modules are optionally combined or otherwise rearranged in various embodiments. In some embodiments, the memory106, optionally, stores a subset of the modules and data structures identified above. Furthermore, the memory106, optionally, stores additional modules and data structures not described above, such as a tracking module for tracking the movement and positioning of objects within a transmission field.

FIG.3is a block diagram illustrating a representative receiver device120(also referred to herein as a receiver120, a wireless power receiver120, and wireless-power-receiving circuitry120) in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the receiver device120includes one or more processors140(e.g., CPUs, ASICs, FPGAs, microprocessors, and the like), one or more communication components144, memory142, one or more antennas124, power harvesting circuitry310, and one or more communication buses308for interconnecting these components (sometimes called a chipset). In some embodiments, the receiver device120includes one or more sensors128such as one or sensors described above with reference toFIG.1A. In some embodiments, the receiver device120includes an energy storage device312for storing energy harvested via the power harvesting circuitry310. In various embodiments, the energy storage device312includes one or more batteries (e.g., battery130,FIG.1A), one or more capacitors, one or more inductors, and the like.

As described above with reference toFIG.1A, in some embodiments, the receiver120is internally or externally connected to an electronic device (e.g., electronic device122a,FIG.1A) via a connection138(e.g., a bus). In some embodiments, the energy storage device312is part of the electronic device.

In some embodiments, the power harvesting circuitry310includes one or more rectifying circuits and/or one or more power converters. In some embodiments, the power harvesting circuitry310includes one or more components (e.g., a power converter126) configured to convert energy from power waves and/or energy pockets to electrical energy (e.g., electricity). In some embodiments, the power harvesting circuitry310is further configured to supply power to a coupled electronic device (e.g., an electronic device122), such as a laptop or phone. In some embodiments, supplying power to a coupled electronic device include translating electrical energy from an AC form to a DC form (e.g., usable by the electronic device122).

The communication component(s)144enable communication between the receiver120and the transmitter102(e.g., via one or more communication networks). In some embodiments, the communication component(s)144include, e.g., hardware capable of data communications using any of a variety of custom or standard wireless protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, Thread, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Smart, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, MiWi, etc.) custom or standard wired protocols (e.g., Ethernet, HomePlug, etc.), and/or any other suitable communication protocol, including communication protocols not yet developed as of the filing date of this document. In some embodiments, the receiver120uses a communications component of the electronic device. In some embodiments, when the receiver120uses a communications component of the electronic device, the receiver120does not include a communication component144. In some embodiments, the communications component is external to the receiver120.

The memory142includes high-speed random access memory, such as DRAM, SRAM, DDR SRAM, or other random access solid state memory devices; and, optionally, includes non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one or more flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid state storage devices. The memory142, or alternatively the non-volatile memory within memory142, includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. In some embodiments, the memory142, or the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of the memory142, stores the following programs, modules, and data structures, or a subset or superset thereof:operating logic314including procedures for handling various basic system services and for performing hardware dependent tasks;communication module316for coupling to and/or communicating with remote devices (e.g., remote sensors, transmitters, other receivers, servers, electronic devices, mapping memories, etc.) in conjunction with the communication component(s)144and/or antenna(s)124. For example, the communication module316can be used in conjunction with second communications radio of the receiving device to provide advertisement signals to a first communications radio of the transmitting device, such that the second communications radio is able to provide data packets to the first communications radio that allow the transmitter to make certain adjustment to the transmission of power to the receiving device (and all this can be done without establishing a communication channel between the first and second communications radios);sensor module318for obtaining and processing sensor data (e.g., in conjunction with sensor(s)128) to, for example, determine the presence, velocity, and/or positioning of the receiver120, a transmitter102, or an object in the vicinity of the receiver120;power receiving module320for receiving (e.g., in conjunction with antenna(s)124and/or power harvesting circuitry310) and optionally converting (e.g., in conjunction with power harvesting circuitry310) the energy (e.g., to direct current); transferring the energy to a coupled electronic device (e.g., an electronic device122); and optionally storing the energy (e.g., in conjunction with energy storage device312)power determining module321for determining (in conjunction with operation of the power receiving module320) an amount of power received by the receiver based on energy extracted from power waves (or RF test signals) and/or pockets or energy at which the power waves converge (e.g., RF signals116,FIG.1A). In some embodiments, the amount of power is reported in the data packets provided in the advertisement signals sent from the second communications radio of the receiving device to the first communications radio of the transmitting device;a switch module330for signaling when to open a switch of the power harvesting circuitry310in order to stop power surges from damaging sensitive components;A toggle module332for controlling the impedance mismatch in the system, which in turn can cause a portion of the incoming power to be reflected from the antenna of the wireless power receiver. By modulating the amount of power reflected by the antenna device can communicate with a wireless power transmitter without needing a dedicate communication component (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, Thread, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Smart, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, MiWi, etc.) wired protocols (e.g., Ethernet, HomePlug, etc.); anddatabase322, including but not limited to:sensor information324for storing and managing data received, detected, and/or transmitted by one or more sensors (e.g., sensors128and/or one or more remote sensors);device settings326for storing and managing operational settings for the receiver120, a coupled electronic device (e.g., an electronic device122), and/or one or more remote devices; andcommunication protocol information328for storing and managing protocol information for one or more protocols (e.g., custom or standard wireless protocols, such as ZigBee, Z-Wave, etc., and/or custom or standard wired protocols, such as Ethernet).unidirectional advertisement structure330allows the first communications radio of the transmitting device to decipher information provided by a second communications radio of a receiving device in, e.g. a BLE advertisement signal.

In some embodiments, the power receiving module320communicates the amount of power to the communication module316, which communicates the amount of power to other remote devices (e.g., transmitter102,FIGS.1-2). In some embodiments, this communication model316transmits advertisements, and does not open a dedicated channel with any particular transmitter (e.g., transmitter102). Moreover, in some embodiments, the power receiving module320may communicate the amount of power to database322(e.g., the database322stores the amount of power derived from one or more power waves116). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the power receiving module320instructs the communication module316to transmit data packets to the remote devices (e.g., a respective data packet can include information for multiple test signals transmitted by the transmitter102).

In some embodiments, the wireless-power transmission system described herein can be used in one or more of: near-field, NF+, mid-field, and far-field transmission applications. Near-field refers to the region around the transmission antenna that is within approximately one wavelength or less (of a power wave to be transmitted by the transmitter device at a certain frequency). Far-field refers to the region around the transmission antenna that is approximately two wavelengths or more (of a power wave to be transmitted by the transmitter device at a certain frequency). Mid-field refers to the region between near field and far field. For example, when the frequency of a transmission wave is 2.4 GHz, the NF+ range is equal or within around 0.188 m, the near-field range is equal or within around 0.125 m, the mid-field range is from around 0.125 m to around 0.25 m, and the far-field range is equal or greater than around 0.25 m. In another example, when the frequency of the transmission wave is 5 GHz, the NF+ range is equal or within around 0.09 m, the near-field range is equal or within around 0.06 m, the mid-field range is from around 0.06 m to around 0.12 m, and the far-field range is equal or greater than around 0.12 m. In some embodiments, the operating frequency ranges from 400 MHz to 60 GHz.

Each of the above identified elements (e.g., modules stored in memory142of the receiver120) is optionally stored in one or more of the previously mentioned memory devices, and corresponds to a set of instructions for performing the function(s) described above. The above identified modules or programs (e.g., sets of instructions) need not be implemented as separate software programs, procedures, or modules, and thus various subsets of these modules are optionally combined or otherwise rearranged in various embodiments. In some embodiments, the memory142, optionally, stores a subset of the modules and data structures identified above. Furthermore, the memory142, optionally, stores additional modules and data structures not described above, such as an identifying module for identifying a device type of a connected device (e.g., a device type for an electronic device122).

Simplex NF/NF+ Software Design

Overview

In some embodiments, in a simplex mode the communication between a wireless-power transmitting device (e.g., transmitter402inFIG.4, equivalent to transmitter102inFIG.1) and wireless-power receiving device (e.g., receiver404inFIG.4, equivalent to receiver120inFIG.1) happens in one direction (e.g., unidirectional communication). In some embodiments, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) advertisement (e.g., indicated by BLE advertisement arrow406inFIG.4) from a receiver404is used by the transmitter402as a pseudo one-way communication channel to receive the advertisements. The following description describes the system requirements, operation/provisioning modes, design, and implementation details of at least one embodiment.

Acronyms Used in the Descriptions Herein

ADAdvertisement DataADVAdvertisementAFVAdvertisement Format VersionAPIApplication Programming InterfaceBLEBluetooth Low EnergyRXReceiverTXTransmitterRFRadio FrequencyWPTWireless Power Transfer

Advantages

Below is a summary of example advantages of the disclosed embodiments. In some embodiments, the secure wireless transmission of power using unidirectional communication is advantageous because it is simpler to implement for end customers. In some embodiments, the amount of software code on the wireless-power receiving device is minimal. In some embodiments, wireless-power-transmitting device402is able to verify that the wireless-power-receiving device404receives power based on only the one-way communications it receives from the wireless-power-receiving device404. The system also has the ability to cease sending power to a receiver that is already being sent power by nearby transmitters. In some embodiments, the wireless-power-transmitter includes counter measures for combating unauthorized receivers or mitigating replay while receiving broadcasts from a wireless-power-transmitting device.

In some embodiments, wireless-power-receiving device broadcasts, via BLE advertisements, the below information corresponding to power, voltage, battery percentage, and charge status. In some embodiments, the wireless-power receiving device can broadcast, via BLE advertisements, whether a storage element (e.g., a battery, capacitor, etc.,) of the wireless-power-receiving device requires charging. In some embodiments, the wireless-power receiving device can broadcast, via BLE advertisements, the condition of the storage element associated with the wireless-power-receiving device is in a critical state (e.g., not within operating temperature, overcharged, undercharged, or another error associated with storage elements). In some embodiments, the wireless-power receiving device can broadcast, via BLE advertisements, whether the wireless-power-receiving device is within range of the wireless-power-transmitter device or not (e.g., the array voltage is detected). In some embodiments, the wireless-power receiving device can broadcast, via BLE advertisements, that the storage element associated with the wireless-power-receiving device is not charging. In some embodiments, the wireless-power receiving device can broadcast, via BLE advertisements, that the storage element associated with the wireless-power-receiving device is charging but needs more power from the wireless-power-transmitting device. In some embodiments, the wireless-power receiving device can broadcast, via BLE advertisements, that the storage element associated with the wireless-power-receiving device is charging at an optimal configured rate from the wireless-power-transmitting device. In some embodiments, the wireless-power receiving device can broadcast, via BLE advertisements, that the storage element associated with the wireless-power-receiving device is charging but is receiving too much power from the wireless-power-transmitting device. In some embodiments, the wireless-power receiving device can broadcast, via BLE advertisements, that the storage element and/or the wireless-power-receiving device is presenting a fault condition.

System Communication Model

In some embodiments, the wireless-power-transmitting device404monitors received wireless-power-transmission signals in accordance with the broadcasted data packet (e.g., BLE advertisement broadcasted from the wireless-power-transmitting device402). For example,FIG.4first shows arrow406that corresponds to a BLE advertisement, and then shows at a later time a change in received RF power, as indicated by arrow408stating “RF Power”). In some embodiments, the wireless-power-receiving device402continuously updates its broadcasted data packets (e.g., BLE advertisement data) with its current charging state of the storage element associated with the wireless-power-receiving device402, the voltage, power received from the wireless-power-transmitting device404, and whether more or less power is required from the wireless-power-transmitting device404, etc. (e.g., as indicated by text box410inFIG.4that recites that advertising occurs every 100 ms).

In some embodiments, the wireless-power-transmitting device404confirms the received broadcasted data packets (e.g., reporting) from the wireless-power-receiving device402is correct for the transmitter's state For example, in some embodiments, this is achieved by having the wireless-power-transmitting device404use a pattern (e.g., a random pattern) of turning the power ON and OFF the power emitted by the wireless-power-transmitting device404and determining, via the wireless-power-transmitting device, whether the wireless-power-receiving device's402broadcasted information that includes received power information (e.g., the reporting values) corresponds to the power transmitted by the wireless-power-transmitting device404(e.g., as indicated inFIG.4by the process block412, which illustrates such an interaction). This confirmation process ensures that the wireless-power-transmitting device404is tracking the correct wireless-power-receiving device(s)402even if other transmitters (e.g., ones provided by manufacturer different from the transmitter implementing the simplex communication method described herein) is charging other wireless-power-receiving devices nearby. An illustration of this interaction is shown inFIG.4.

In some embodiments, each of the additional wireless power-transmission signals (e.g., arrow416stating “RF Power” inFIG.4) has a certain power level that is both predetermined by the wireless-power-transmitting device402and is a higher power level than the power level that was used for a first wireless-power-transmission signal (e.g., arrow408stating “RF Power” inFIG.4). In this way, receipt of the additional wireless-power-transmission signals at the wireless-power-receiving device404can be verified by the wireless-power-transmitting device404by checking a reported power level from the wireless-power-receiving device402(e.g., arrow416stating “RF Power” inFIG.4).

System Supported Modes

In some embodiments, the system communication model is an open mode, and there is no authentication and/or encryption in this mode. In some embodiments, the open mode can be useful for devices with very small memory footprints (e.g., 32 kBs) and charging requirements where data protection is not required.

In some embodiments, the system is protected, and data will be encrypted using shared key. For example, in some embodiments at least some portions of the data included in the broadcasted data packets (e.g., BLE advertisements and/or WPT beacon) will be encrypted using a shared key. This mode provides a level of security without taking up much memory space. The shared key can be protected to avoid potential security threats, and the shared key in some embodiments can be provisioned at the manufacturing time.

In some embodiments, the system is private, and authentication and encryption are provided using public key cryptography. For example, in some embodiments at least some portions of the data included in the broadcasted data packets (e.g., BLE advertisements and/or WPT beacon) will be encrypted using a public key. In some embodiments, wireless-power-receiving device402and wireless-power transmitting device404can be provisioned using the public key of another party to derive a common pre-shared key. This key can be directly or indirectly used to encrypt the data found within the broadcast. This security mode provides additional security compared to the other modes described above. In some embodiments, this mode has keys that are dynamically generated.

Receiver ADV Service Data Format

In some embodiments, data packets that are broadcasted by the second communications radio (also referred to herein as BLE advertisements for embodiments in which BLE radios are used) include a predetermined format, an example of that format is provided below for reference:

ByteNumberEncryptionLengthValueDescription0Open10x12Length of Advertisement Data110x16Service Data Type220xFFFCAirfuel Alliance SDO410x00Technology Type, RF-A,Manufacturer Specific510x5XAdvertisement Format Version(AFV)6Encrypted20xXXSequence Counter810xXXReceiver AD Flags910x00BLE TX power in dBm(Signed)1010x00Battery Percentage (Encoded)1120x0000Device Power in mW(Encoded)1320x0000Array Voltage in mV(Encoded)1520x0000Load Voltage in mV(Encoded)1720x0000Array Power in mW (Encoded)1920x0000Battery Voltage in mV(Encoded)

In other words, in some embodiments, the data packet and the additional data packet(s) provided by the second communications radio include information pertaining to: Length of Advertisement Data, Service Data Type, Airfuel Alliance SDO, Technology Type, RF-A, manufacturer specific, Advertisement Format Version (AFV), Sequence Counter, Receiver AD Flags, BLE TX power in dBm (Signed), Battery Percentage (Encoded), Device Power in mW (Encoded), Array Voltage in mV (Encoded), Load Voltage in mV (Encoded), Array Power in mW (Encoded), and/or Battery Voltage in mV (Encoded). In some embodiments, a first set of the data included in the data packets that are broadcasted by the receivers is encrypted/encoded, while a second set of the data included in the data packets that are broadcasted by the receivers is not encrypted/encoded.

Additional details regarding the data included with some of the bytes in the data packets that are broadcasted by the receivers are also provided below.

Receiver Advertisement Format Version

The below table illustrates additional structure/information concerning byte 5 in the example data packets broadcasted by a receiver device that were discussed above. This additional structure/information helps to ensure a common advertisement messaging structure that supports multiple types of devices. Using this structure, communicating devices can distinguish the type of device, their supported message formats, and their encryption status. This also allows for future modification of the message structure without breaking backwards compatibility.

Bit76543210DescProtocol VersionEncrMF/FFNF/NF+0-TX1-RX

In some embodiments, at least four bits of the common advertisement messaging structure is allocated to the protocol version. In some embodiments, at least one bit of the common advertisement messaging structure is allocated to encryption. In some embodiments, at least one bit of the common advertisement messaging structure is allocated to MF/FF data. In some embodiments, at least one bit of the common advertisement messaging structure is allocated to NF/NF+ data. In some embodiments, at least one bit of the common advertisement messaging structure is allocated to information as to whether the data corresponds to the transmitter or receiver.

Receiver AD Flags

The below table illustrates additional structure/information concerning byte 8 in the example data packets broadcasted by a receiver device that were discussed above. The below table shows a set of flags that indicate a receiver's charging status, which helps a transmitter determine the best charging algorithm for optimal system performance (e.g., a charging algorithm that ensures the receiver is receiving an amount of usable power that is sufficient to provide power or charge to the receiver).

Bit76543210Desc0-1 ByteCharge StatusOnBatteryChargeConnectableStatusChargerCriticalRequired1-2 ByteStatus

Charge Status

In some embodiments, the example data packets broadcasted by a receiver device that were discussed above can include information related to a charge status of the receiver device. The table below details examples of the different charge statuses that the broadcasted data packets can convey. These are provided to the transmitter to help it determine the best charging algorithm (e.g., a charging algorithm that ensures the receiver is receiving an amount of usable power that is sufficient to provide power or charge to the receiver).

Bit 6Bit 5Bit 4Description0000 - Not Charging0011 - Increment Required0102 - Power Optimal0113 - Decrement Required1004 - Fault1015 - Busy———Other Values Reserved

The methods described herein can make use of the charging status information to help improve charging operations. For instance, the methods described herein can include an operation of: in accordance with a determination that broadcasted data packet from a wireless-power-receiving device includes information regarding the wireless-power-receiving device's charge status, the wireless-power-transmitting device is then configured to make an adjustment to the transmission of wireless power that is based on the charging status information (e.g., if the bits4through6indicate that the receiver requires an increment, then the wireless-power-transmitting device can adjust the transmission of wireless power by increasing a power level with which the power is being delivered to the receiver.

Receiver Charger Detection

In some embodiments, the a device with which the receivers described herein are coupled (e.g., an electronic device configured to receive usable power from the receiver device) can perform charger polling (which can be referred to as receiver charge detection herein) during which an application running on the device can periodically poll (e.g., once every 1 or 2 minutes) for presence of a wireless-power transmitter in proximity to the receiver. Once the charger is detected (e.g., because a power transmission signal is received at the receiver), then the application running on the device can cause can the receiver to begin running a new routine or another software program that causes the receiver to update its broadcasted data packet (e.g., as indicated by the process414shown inFIG.4).

In some embodiments, the receiver charge detection is a receiver single image with charger interrupt. In this mode, the device with which the receiver is coupled can configure a Varray pin as GPIO and interrupt logic HIGH, in accordance with one example technique. The interrupt will be generated once the receiver is put on the charger. The application can start the new routine or other software program discussed above and can update the information included in the broadcasted data packets (e.g., as indicated by the process414shown inFIG.4).

In some embodiments, the receiver charge detection is a receiver dual image. In this mode, the charger detection should be part of the device with which the receiver is coupled. This can be performed by either polling or interrupt. On charger detection customer image can load the new routine or other software program discussed above.

Additional Description of Example Embodiments

FIGS.5A-5Cshow flow diagrams of a method of transmitting unidirectional communication signals, in accordance with some embodiments. Specifically,FIG.5A-5Cshows a method500of securing (502) wireless transmission of power using unidirectional communication signals from a wireless-power-receiving device occurs at a wireless-power-receiving device (e.g., receiver120inFIG.1A, receiver120inFIG.3, and receiver404(equivalent to receiver120)FIG.4).

In some embodiments, a wireless-power-receiving device receives (504), from a wireless-power-transmitting device (e.g., transmitter102inFIG.1A, transmitter102inFIG.2, and wireless-power transmitting device402(equivalent to transmitter102) inFIG.4) that includes a first communications radio, a first wireless-power-transmission signal at a wireless-power-receiving device that includes a second communications radio.

In some embodiments, in response to the a wireless-power-receiving device receiving (506) the first wireless-power-transmission signal (e.g.,FIG.4shows an arrow418that indicates that a WPT Beacon is transmitted from the wireless-power-transmitting device404): broadcasting (508), via the second communications radio of the wireless-power-receiving device and without establishing a communications channel between the first and second communications radios, a data packet, the data packet including information identifying (i) at least one power requirement of a power source of the wireless-power-receiving device (ii) an amount of power received by the wireless-power-receiving device from the first wireless-power-transmission signal (e.g.,FIG.4shows an arrow406indicating that a BLE advertisement is broadcasted from the wireless-power-receiving device404).

In some embodiments, after broadcasting the data packet, receiving (510), from the wireless-power-transmitting device, additional wireless-power-transmission signals at the wireless-power-receiving device (e.g.,FIG.4shows an arrow408that indicates that additional wireless-power-transmission signals have been sent from the wireless-power-transmitting device402). In some embodiments, the wireless-power-transmitting device transmits each of the additional wireless-power-transmission signals using a predetermined sequence of different transmission characteristics (e.g., as indicated inFIG.4by the process block412).

In some embodiments, in response to the wireless-power-receiving device receiving each additional wireless-power transmission signal, broadcasting (512), via the second communications radio of the wireless-power-receiving device and without establishing a communications channel between the first and second communications radios, an additional data packet (e.g.,FIG.4shows an arrow420that indicates an additional data packet), each respective additional data packet including information regarding receipt of the additional wireless-power-transmission signal.

In some embodiments, the wireless-power-transmitting device compares (514) the information regarding receipt of the additional wireless-power-transmission signals to the predetermined sequence of different transmission characteristics to determine whether to continue wirelessly transmitting power to the wireless-power-receiving device (e.g., as indicated inFIG.4by the process block412).

Turning next toFIG.5Band continuing the description of method500, in some embodiments, the data packet and the additional data packets are broadcast (516) via a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication protocol (e.g., arrows406and420inFIG.4indicate that BLE advertisements are broadcasted from the wireless-power-receiving device404).

In some embodiments, the additional data packets include information that causes the wireless-power-transmitting device to adjust (518) characteristics of the additional wireless-power-transmission signals provided to the wireless-power receiving device (e.g.,FIG.4illustrates that after the transmitter402receives the BLE advertisement, as indicated by arrow406, the wireless power transmitting device402begins sending additional RF power, as indicated by arrow408). In some embodiments, the wireless-power-transmitting device (e.g., transmitter402inFIG.4) adjusts characteristics of the additional wireless power transmission signals when the information specifies that the wireless-power-transmitting device (i) is not charging, (ii) is charging but needs more power, (iii) is charging at an optimal configured rate, (iv) is charging but is receiving too much power, and (v) has a fault condition.

In some embodiments, the wireless-power-receiving device is within a wireless-power-transmission range of the wireless-power-transmitting device when the second communications radio transmits (520) the data packet (e.g., as indicated by text box422inFIG.4that states “On Charger Detection” and after that detection occurs the BLE Advertisement is sent, as indicated by arrow406inFIG.4).

In some embodiments, the wireless-power-transmission range is near-field transmission range of less than or equal to 12 inches from the wireless-power-transmitting device (522) (e.g., as indicated by text box424that states that the “user places receiver on top of transmitter”). In some embodiments, the wireless-power-transmission range is a far-field transmission range of greater than 12 inches from the wireless-power transmission device (524).

In some embodiments, the wireless-power-receiving device is placed (526) within the wireless-power-transmission range before receiving the first wireless-power-transmission signal at the wireless-power-receiving device and while the first communications radio of the wireless-power-transmitting device is not scanning (e.g., as indicated by text box424). In some embodiments, the wireless-power-transmitting device causes (526) the first communications radio to begin scanning for broadcasted data packets in response to detecting the wireless-power-receiving device within the wireless-power-transmission range (e.g., as indicated by text box426inFIG.4that states “receiver detected BLE scanning enabled”).

Turning next toFIG.5Cand continuing the description of method500, in some embodiments, the predetermined sequence of different transmission characteristics is a sequence in which the wireless-power-transmitting device sends (528) the additional wireless-power-transmission signals at different points in time by toggling transmissions on and off over a given period of time (e.g., as indicated inFIG.4by the process block412).

In some embodiments, the predetermined sequence of different transmission characteristics is a sequence in which the wireless-power-transmitting device transmits (530) each of the additional wireless-power-transmission signals using different power levels (e.g., as indicated inFIG.4by the process block412).

In some embodiments, the second communications radio of the wireless-power-receiving device communicates (532) in a unidirectional manner with the first communications radio of the wireless-power-transmitting device and does not receive communication from the wireless-power-transmitting device (e.g., as shown inFIG.4).

In some embodiments, the wireless-power-receiving device broadcasts (534) each of the data packet and the additional data packets at a predetermined time interval (e.g., as shown by text box410indicating that BLE advertisements are sent every preset period of time). In some embodiments, the predetermined time interval is equal to 100 ms or less (536) (e.g., as shown by text box410indicating that BLE advertisements are sent every 100 ms). In some embodiments, the predetermined time interval is adjustable and can be configured to be 50 ms, 100 ms, 200 ms, 300 ms, 500 ms, or any value below 300 ms. This allows for quick transmission of packets, which causes a quicker response in adjusting power from the wireless-power-transmitting device, Consequently, resulting in better control of the charging characteristics without damaging the battery or other equipment of the wireless-receiving-receiving device.

In some embodiments, the data packet and each respective additional data packet include information about current charging state, voltage, power received from the wireless-power-transmitting device, and information indicating whether more or less power is required (538) (e.g., BLE advertisements406and420shown inFIG.4include this information).

In some embodiments, the data packet and each respective additional data packet include encrypted data (540) (e.g., BLE advertisements406and420shown inFIG.4can include encrypted data).

In some embodiments, the wireless-power-receiving device includes a wireless-power-receiving circuit with power-harvesting circuitry and a memory of approximately 32 KBs (542) (e.g.,FIG.3showing components of an example RF receiver), and the memory stores instructions that cause the wireless-power-receiving device to perform the instructions of the discussed unidirectional charging process. In some embodiments, these instructions occupy approximately 5 KBs or less of the memory (542). As compared to other systems, an instruction size of 5 KBs represents a significant reduction in the program space, thereby freeing up memory space for other purposes on the receiver side (e.g., receiver120inFIG.3). In this way, the techniques described herein allow the receiver chip to operate more efficiently (e.g., receiver120inFIG.3).

In some embodiments, data packet and the additional data packet also include information regarding a charge status of the power source selected from a group consisting of: the power source (i) is not charging, (ii) is charging but needs more power, (iii) is charging at an optimal configured rate, (iv) is charging but is receiving too much power, and (v) has a fault condition (544) (e.g., BLE advertisements406and420inFIG.4include this information).

In some embodiments, a wireless-power-receiving device that includes a wireless-power-receiving circuit having a memory storing instructions for securely transmitting wireless power using unidirectional communication signals from a wireless-power-receiving device, the instructions causing performance of any of the above discussed features. In some embodiments, a system comprises a receiver and a transmitter, wherein the receiver and transmitter are configured to perform operations to allow for execution of any of the above-discussed features. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of a wireless-power-receiving device, cause the one or more processors to perform or cause performance of any of the above discussed features. A wireless-power-receiving device comprising means for causing performance of any of the above-discussed features.

Although some of various drawings illustrate a number of logical stages in a particular order, stages which are not order dependent may be reordered and other stages may be combined or broken out. While some reordering or other groupings are specifically mentioned, others will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art, so the ordering and groupings presented herein are not an exhaustive list of alternatives. Moreover, it should be recognized that the stages could be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof.

The preceding description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments described herein and variations thereof. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter disclosed herein. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the following claims and the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Features of this disclosure can be implemented in, using, or with the assistance of a computer program product, such as a storage medium (media) or computer readable storage medium (media) having instructions stored thereon/in which can be used to program a processing system to perform any of the features presented herein. The storage medium (e.g., memory206,256) can include, but is not limited to, high-speed random access memory, such as DRAM, SRAM, DDR RAM or other random access solid state memory devices, and may include non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, optical disk storage devices, flash memory devices, or other non-volatile solid state storage devices. Memory optionally includes one or more storage devices remotely located from the CPU(s) (e.g., processor(s)). Memory, or alternatively the non-volatile memory device(s) within the memory, comprises a non-transitory computer readable storage medium.

It will be understood that, although the terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the claims. As used in the description of the embodiments and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and/or” as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

As used herein, the term “if” may be construed to mean “when” or “upon” or “in response to determining” or “in accordance with a determination” or “in response to detecting,” that a stated condition precedent is true, depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase “if it is determined [that a stated condition precedent is true]” or “if [a stated condition precedent is true]” or “when [a stated condition precedent is true]” may be construed to mean “upon determining” or “in response to determining” or “in accordance with a determination” or “upon detecting” or “in response to detecting” that the stated condition precedent is true, depending on the context.

The foregoing description, for purpose of explanation, has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the claims to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen in order to best explain the principles underlying the claims and their practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best use the embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular uses contemplated.