Power supply method and apparatus, and power supply system

Abstract

A power supply method and apparatus and a power supply system are provided. The power supply apparatus includes a first energy harvester element configured to generate electric power in response to an external energy signal being received, a connection switch element configured to switch a connection between the first energy harvester element and a second energy harvester element, and a first rectifier including one or more path switch elements configured to change a rectification path in response to switching of the connection switch element, wherein the first rectifier is connected to the first energy harvester element to rectify the electric power generated by the first energy harvester element along the rectification path.

Description

[0001] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0108345, filed on September 2, 2019, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0002] The following description relates to a method and apparatus for providing electricity generated from an external energy signal. Background Technology

[0003] Wireless power transmission can be used to provide power to electrical devices implanted in the human body, such as wireless sensor networks for real-time monitoring of physical condition and lifestyle. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This summary is provided to introduce, in a simplified form, the selection of concepts further described in the following detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] In one general aspect, a power supply device includes: a first energy harvester element configured to generate electricity in response to the receipt of an external energy signal; a connection switching element configured to switch a connection between the first energy harvester element and a second energy harvester element; and a first rectifier including one or more path switching elements configured to change a rectification path in response to the switching of the connection switching element, wherein the first rectifier is connected to the first energy harvester element to rectify the electricity generated by the first energy harvester element along the rectification path.

[0006] In response to a first energy harvester element being connected in series with one or more second energy harvester elements, a path switching element may form a series path with a second rectifier, the second rectifier being connected to one of the one or more second energy harvester elements.

[0007] In response to the first energy harvester element being connected in series between two or more second energy harvester elements via two or more connection switching elements, the path switching element can exclude the first rectifier from the rectification path.

[0008] In response to the disconnection of the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element, the path switching element can form a parallel rectified path for the second energy harvester element.

[0009] The connection switching element can be configured to: connect the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element in series in response to a connection signal; and disconnect the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element in response to a disconnection signal.

[0010] The power supply device can be configured to switch the connection between the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element based on the current output from the first rectifier passing through a connection switching element.

[0011] In response to the current output from the first rectifier being less than a threshold current, the power supply device may also be configured to connect one or more second energy harvester elements in series with the first energy harvester element using a plurality of connection switching elements.

[0012] The power supply device may be configured to: monitor the current output from the first rectifier for each connection state between the first energy harvester element and the one or more second energy harvester elements, and determine the connection state with the maximum output current among the connection states.

[0013] The power supply device can be configured to maintain a defined connection state while the power rectified by the first rectifier is supplied to the load.

[0014] The power supply device may be configured to: determine an array corresponding to the current values ​​output from each energy harvester element through a first rectifier, and form a connection of multiple energy harvester elements using multiple connection switching elements based on the determined array.

[0015] The connection switching element can be configured as a non-volatile memory switch to maintain one of the connected and disconnected states between the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element based on pre-stored switching states.

[0016] The power supply device may further include: a load connected to the output of a first rectifier, wherein, in response to the series connection of a plurality of energy harvester elements, the first rectifier rectifies the power having voltages applied to a first terminal and a second terminal of the plurality of energy harvester elements, and provides the rectified power to the load.

[0017] The first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element may be formed of a material that vibrates in response to the receipt of an external energy signal, and the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element have the same resonant frequency.

[0018] The first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element can be arranged on the same plane and have receiving axes that are parallel to each other.

[0019] The one or more path switching elements may include a plurality of diode elements configured to form a rectifier path.

[0020] The one or more path switching elements may include: a passive diode element and a transistor switch, wherein the passive diode element and the transistor switch are configured to: form a rectification path in response to the output voltage of the first rectifier being less than a threshold output, and to exclude the passive diode element in response to the output voltage of the first rectifier being greater than or equal to the threshold output, and to form a rectification path by switching on and off based on the current output from the first energy harvester element.

[0021] The external energy signal can be a signal that propagates through a medium while vibrating, and the first energy harvester element is configured to generate electricity based on the vibration caused in response to the received external energy signal.

[0022] In one general aspect, a power supply device includes: a plurality of energy harvester elements configured to generate electricity in response to the receipt of an external energy signal; a plurality of connection switching elements configured to switch connections between the plurality of energy harvester elements; and a plurality of rectifiers respectively connected to the plurality of energy harvester elements, wherein each of the plurality of rectifiers includes a path switching element configured to form a rectification path for the electricity generated by the plurality of energy harvester elements in response to the switching of the plurality of connection switching elements.

[0023] In one general aspect, a power supply method performed by a power supply device includes: generating power through a first energy harvester element in response to receiving an external energy signal; switching the connection between the first energy harvester element and a second energy harvester element based on the generated power; forming a rectification path for at least one of the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element in response to the switching; rectifying the power generated by the first energy harvester element along the rectification path via a rectifier; and maintaining the formed rectification path while the power generated by the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element and rectified by the rectifier is supplied to a load.

[0024] The steps of forming the rectification path may include: in response to the current of the rectified power output from the rectifier being less than a threshold current, additionally connecting a second energy harvester element in series with a first energy harvester element.

[0025] In one general aspect, a power supply device includes: a battery; a plurality of piezoelectric elements connected to the battery, the plurality of piezoelectric elements being configured to generate power in response to the receipt of a wireless signal and to supply the generated power to the battery; and a switching element configured to switch between a series connection mode and a parallel connection mode of the plurality of piezoelectric elements.

[0026] Wireless signals can be ultrasonic signals.

[0027] The plurality of piezoelectric elements may include four or more piezoelectric elements.

[0028] The size of each of the plurality of piezoelectric elements may be less than or equal to 5 mm.

[0029] The series or parallel connection mode of the multiple piezoelectric elements can be determined based on the state of charge of the battery.

[0030] A rectifier can be connected to each of the plurality of piezoelectric elements.

[0031] The series or parallel connection mode of the plurality of piezoelectric elements can be determined based on the current value output from the rectifier.

[0032] The power supply device may be configured to: in response to a current value output from the rectifier being less than a threshold current, use a switching element to increase the number of series-connected piezoelectric elements among the plurality of piezoelectric elements.

[0033] The switching element can be configured as a non-volatile memory switch to maintain one of the series connection mode and parallel connection mode of the plurality of piezoelectric elements based on pre-stored switching states.

[0034] The power supply device can be configured to maintain the connection state of the plurality of piezoelectric elements while the power rectified by the rectifier is supplied to the battery.

[0035] In one general aspect, a power supply system includes: a transmitter configured to transmit an external energy signal; a bio-implant device configured to receive the transmitted external energy signal and generate electricity based on the received external energy signal, wherein the bio-implant device may include: a plurality of energy harvester elements connected in one of a series mode and a parallel mode; a rectifier; and a connection switching element configured to change the array of the plurality of energy harvester elements in response to a current output from the rectifier being less than a threshold current.

[0036] The bio-implant device can be configured to monitor individual changes in the current output from the rectifier for each of the arrays of the plurality of energy harvester elements, and to determine the connection state with the maximum output current in each array.

[0037] Other features and aspects will become clear from the following detailed description, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 An example of a power supply system according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0039] Figure 2 Examples of operation of a power supply device according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0040] Figure 3 and Figure 4 Examples of the operating principles of an energy harvester element and the switching operation of a rectifier are shown according to one or more embodiments.

[0041] Figure 5 Examples of the characteristics of an energy harvester element according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0042] Figure 6 An example of the configuration of a power supply device according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0043] Figure 7 An example of the configuration of an energy harvester element according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0044] Figure 8 Examples of per-region characteristics of an energy harvester element according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0045] Figure 9 Examples illustrating voltage and current relationships for series and parallel connections of energy harvester elements according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0046] Figure 10 An example of an array of energy harvester elements according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0047] Figure 11 An example of a circuit diagram showing a power supply device according to one or more embodiments.

[0048] Figures 12 to 14 An example of a rectification path for an array of power supply devices according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0049] Figure 15 Examples of elements of a rectifier according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0050] Figure 16 An example circuit diagram of a power supply device including a rectifier implemented using passive components, according to one or more embodiments, is shown.

[0051] Figures 17 to 19 Show Figure 16 An example of the rectification path of an array of power supply devices.

[0052] Figure 20 and Figure 21 Examples of simulation results showing the changes in current and voltage of an array of energy harvester elements in a power supply device according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0053] Figure 22An example is shown of grouping multiple energy harvesters to form a rectification path in a power supply device, according to one or more embodiments.

[0054] Figure 23 Examples of power supply methods according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0055] Figure 24 An example is shown, according to one or more embodiments, of a graph illustrating the range of operating currents for a power supply device for current output from a single energy harvester element.

[0056] Figure 25 An example of a graph illustrating the range of misaligned operating angles between the receiving and transmitting axes of a power supply device, according to one or more embodiments.

[0057] Throughout the accompanying drawings and detailed embodiments, unless otherwise described or provided, the same reference numerals will be understood to denote the same elements, features, and structures. The drawings may not be to scale, and for clarity, illustration, and convenience, the relative dimensions, scale, and depiction of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated. Detailed Implementation

[0058] The following detailed embodiments are provided to aid the reader in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described herein. However, various changes, modifications, and equivalents of the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described herein will become apparent upon understanding this disclosure. For example, the order of operations described herein is merely illustrative and is not limited to those orders set forth herein, but may be changed as will become clear upon understanding this disclosure, except for operations that must occur in a specific order. Furthermore, for added clarity and conciseness, descriptions of known features may be omitted.

[0059] The features described herein may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the examples described herein. Rather, the examples described herein have been provided only to illustrate some of the many feasible ways of implementing the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described herein that will become clear upon understanding the disclosure of this application.

[0060] Although terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used herein to describe various components, assemblies, regions, layers, or parts, these components, assemblies, regions, layers, or parts should not be limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are used only to distinguish one component, assembly, region, layer, or part from another. Therefore, without departing from the teaching of the examples described herein, the first component, first assembly, first region, first layer, or first part represented in the examples may also be referred to as a second component, second assembly, second region, second layer, or second part.

[0061] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various examples only and is not intended to limit disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” indicate the presence of the features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof stated therein, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof.

[0062] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains, upon understanding this disclosure. It will also be understood that, unless expressly defined herein, terms (such as those defined in a general dictionary) shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and in this disclosure, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formalistic manner.

[0063] When describing the examples with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same constituent elements, and repetitive descriptions related to said constituent elements will be omitted. In the description of the examples, descriptions of well-known related structures or functions will be omitted where such detailed descriptions would lead to an obscure interpretation of this disclosure.

[0064] Figure 1 An example of a power supply system according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0065] Reference Figure 1The power supply system 100 includes an external transmitter (e.g., TX) 120 and an internal receiver (e.g., RX) 110. The transmitter 120 includes a signal generator 121, a power amplifier 122, and a transducer 123. The receiver 110 may be implemented as a bioimplant 119 implanted in a living organism 190 (e.g., a human body) and includes a transducer 111, an impedance matching network 112, a power converter 113, and a battery 114. The receiver 110 receives external energy signals transmitted from the transmitter 120 through tissue 191 of the living organism 190. For example, the transducer 111 of the receiver 110 may be implemented using a piezoelectric element 115, and the receiver 110 may be positioned in millimeter dimensions (e.g., less than or equal to 5 mm). The receiver 110 may be implanted into the human body at a depth greater than or equal to a predetermined distance (e.g., 5 cm). The receiver 110 operates an integrated circuit (IC) 116 mounted therein by generating electricity based on the received external energy signals.

[0066] In the following text, receiver 110 will also be referred to as a power supply device in relation to providing power to the load.

[0067] Figure 2 An example of the operation of the power supply device 200 is shown.

[0068] Reference Figure 2 The power supply device 200 includes a transducer 210, an impedance matching network 220, a power converter 230, and a battery 240. The transducer 210 generates electricity in response to an external energy signal being received by the power supply device 200. The impedance matching network 220 is a circuit used for impedance matching between the transducer 210 and the power converter 230. The power converter 230 converts the electricity (e.g., converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC)). If the battery 240 does not have sufficient power, the power supply device 200 converts the electricity generated by the transducer 210 in response to an external energy signal with relatively high efficiency compared to a cold start condition (described later) and supplies the converted electricity to the battery 240.

[0069] The power supply unit 200 also includes a cold start circuit 250. The cold start circuit 250 is a circuit that activates in response to the receipt of external power, even when the power available for the self-operation of the power supply unit 200 is insufficient. For example, the cold start circuit 250 is configured to send power generated by the transducer 210 to the battery 240 in response to the battery 240's state of charge being less than a threshold state of charge. If the battery's state of charge is less than the threshold state of charge, the impedance matching network 220 and the power converter 230 do not operate. In this example, the power supply unit 200 converts the power generated by the transducer 210 with a relatively lower efficiency than usual and provides the converted power to the battery 240. Therefore, the power supply unit 200 has a power conversion efficiency that varies based on the battery 240's state of charge and continuously generates power in response to the receipt of an external energy signal.

[0070] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 3 to 8 The piezoelectric element is described as transducer 210, and reference will be made to... Figures 10 to 19 The description includes the structure and operation of a rectifier, which is implemented as a single unit including a power converter 230 and a cold-start circuit 250. For ease of description, the impedance matching network 220 is omitted here. However, the impedance matching network 220 may be connected between the piezoelectric element and the rectifier.

[0071] Figure 3 and Figure 4 This illustrates the operating principle of the energy harvester components and an example of the switching operation of the rectifier.

[0072] Reference Figure 3 The power transmitter 320 sends an external energy signal to the power supply device 310. The external energy signal is a signal that propagates through a medium when vibrating. For example, the power transmitter 320 sends an ultrasonic wave signal vibrating at a predetermined frequency as the external energy signal. The energy harvester element 311 of the power supply device 310 generates electricity based on the vibration caused by the received external energy signal and is configured as a piezoelectric element. The electricity generated by the energy harvester element 311 is an AC waveform, and the AC waveform has a current I. PZ and voltage V PZ Rectifier 312 rectifies the power generated by energy harvester element 311 from AC to DC. The power rectified by rectifier 312 is represented by current I. RECT and voltage V RECT It has a current I RECT and voltage V RECT The power is supplied to the load 313 connected to the rectifier 312. Figure 3 In the diagram, load 313 is a battery and is modeled as capacitor C. RECTIt should be understood that load 313 is not limited to batteries, and the battery model is not limited to capacitors.

[0073] For reference, if rectifier 312 includes a passive diode element, the threshold voltage of the passive diode element is expressed as V. D Passive diode elements are configured to form a rectifier circuit, and for example, constitute a bridge circuit. For example, in response to the input of power generated by energy harvester element 311, rectifier 312 forms a rectified path through two of the four passive diode elements. Therefore, in order to operate rectifier 312, the voltage at the input terminals of rectifier 312 must be greater than the sum of the voltage at the output terminals of rectifier 312 and the threshold voltages of the two passive diode elements. The necessary condition for rectifier 312 to rectify the power generated by energy harvester element 311 is expressed by the following Equation 1.

[0074] Equation 1

[0075] V PZ -2V D >V RECT

[0076] In equation 1, V PZ This represents the voltage of the power output from the energy harvester element 311 (i.e., the voltage applied to the input terminal of the rectifier 312). V RECT This represents the voltage of the rectified power output from rectifier 312 (i.e., the voltage applied to load 313 or the voltage at the output terminal of rectifier 312).

[0077] Figure 4 An equivalent model of the piezoelectric element 410, which serves as an energy harvester element in the power supply device 400, is shown. For example... Figure 4 As shown, using current source I PZ Parasitic capacitor C PZ and resistor R PZ Model the piezoelectric element 410. From current source I... PZ The output current is a sine wave as shown. However, the example is not limited to this. From current source I PZ The output current can be other sine waves. The resistor R in the piezoelectric element 410... PZ The resistance value is too large and therefore can be ignored. Therefore, the voltage V output from piezoelectric element 410 is... PZ The peak value is represented by the following equation 2.

[0078] Equation 2

[0079]

[0080] In equation 2, f PZ This indicates the resonant frequency of the piezoelectric element 410. Figure 4 In the middle, from current source I PZ The output current is represented by the following equation 3.

[0081] Equation 3

[0082] I PZ =I PZ,Peak ·sin(2π.f PZ .t)

[0083] When the voltage V output from the piezoelectric element 410 PZ When the voltage exceeds the first threshold voltage during the positive waveform period, rectifier 420 forms the first rectification path. As shown in Equation 1, only when the output voltage V of piezoelectric element 410... PZ Voltage greater than the first threshold voltage (e.g., V) RECT +2V D When the rectifier 420 is activated (e.g., turned on), it is configured as a path switching element to form the first rectified path. If the voltage V output from the piezoelectric element 410... PZ If the voltage is less than or equal to the first threshold voltage during the positive waveform period, rectifier 420 cancels the first rectification path. Rectifier 420 deactivates (e.g., disconnects) the path switching element corresponding to the first rectification path. The path switching element is configured as a passive diode element. However, the example is not limited to this. The path switching element can be configured as an active transistor switch. Furthermore, when the voltage V output from piezoelectric element 410... PZ When the voltage is less than the second threshold voltage during the negative waveform period, rectifier 420 forms a second rectification path. This second rectification path only occurs when the output voltage V of piezoelectric element 410... PZ Less than the second threshold voltage (e.g., -(V) RECT +2V D When ), rectifier 420 activates the path switching element configured to form the second rectified path. If the voltage V output from piezoelectric element 410 PZ If the voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold voltage during the negative waveform period, rectifier 420 cancels the second rectification path. For example, rectifier 420 deactivates the path switching element corresponding to the second rectification path. The following will refer to... Figure 15 Describe the path switching element.

[0084] Therefore, the power supply device 400 provides DC power to the load 430 by alternately forming a first rectification path and a second rectification path of the rectifier for the AC power output from the piezoelectric element 410.

[0085] Figure 5 Examples of the characteristics of an energy harvester element according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0086] The external energy signal is implemented as an ultrasonic signal 510. However, the example is not limited to this. The external energy signal can also be implemented as an electromagnetic signal 520 (e.g., an RF signal). Figure 5 As shown, compared to the electromagnetic signal 520, the ultrasonic signal 510 transmitted from the power transmitter induces power generation for energy harvester elements having receiver sizes and insertion depths over a wider range. In energy harvester elements of power supply devices having small dimensions (e.g., 5 mm) and being inserted to large depths (e.g., 5 cm), the ultrasonic signal 510 exhibits relatively high power transmission efficiency compared to the electromagnetic signal 520.

[0087] Therefore, the energy harvester element using ultrasonic signal 510 is implemented in a small size (e.g., less than or equal to 1 cm in diameter) and is advantageous for transmission over relatively long distances (e.g., power transmission at distances greater than or equal to 5 cm). The energy harvester element using electromagnetic signal 520 is advantageous for short-distance transmission (e.g., power transmission at distances less than or equal to 3 cm).

[0088] Figure 6 An example of the configuration of a power supply device according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0089] Reference Figure 6 The power supply device 600 includes a first energy harvester element 611, a first rectifier 612, a connection switch element 691, a second energy harvester element 621, a second rectifier 622, and a load 614. Although only the first and second energy harvesters and the first and second rectifiers are shown, this is only an example, and additional energy harvesters and rectifiers may be implemented based on this example.

[0090] The first energy harvester element 611 generates electricity in response to the receipt of an external energy signal.

[0091] A connection switch element 691 switches the connection between the first energy harvester element 611 and the second energy harvester element 621. The connection switch element 691 connects the first energy harvester element 611 and the second energy harvester element 621 in series in response to a connection signal. Furthermore, the connection switch element 691 disconnects the first energy harvester element 611 from the second energy harvester element 621 in response to a disconnect signal. The connection switch element 691 may be configured as a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) switch. However, the examples are not limited to this. The connection switch element 691 may also be configured as a non-volatile memory switch. In response to the switching of the connection switch element 691, the array of energy harvester elements and the rectification path of the corresponding first rectifier 612 are determined. In some examples, the multiple energy harvester elements are connected differently in different arrays, indicating how the multiple energy harvester elements are connected in series and / or in parallel. An array of energy harvester elements is represented by a×b, where a and b are both integers greater than or equal to "1", and the product of a and b is less than or equal to N. "a" represents the number of energy harvester elements connected in parallel, and "b" represents the number of energy harvester elements connected in series.

[0092] The first rectifier 612 includes one or more path switches and is connected to the first energy harvester element 611 to rectify the power generated by the first energy harvester element 611 along a rectification path. The path switch element 613 dynamically changes the rectification path in response to the switching of the connected switch element 691.

[0093] For example, in response to a first energy harvester element 611 being connected in series with one or more second energy harvester elements 621, a path switching element 613 forms a series path with a second rectifier 622, which is connected to one of the one or more second energy harvester elements 621. In response to a first energy harvester element 611 being connected in series between second energy harvester elements via two or more connection switching elements 691, the path switching element 613 can exclude the first rectifier 612 from the rectification path. In response to a first energy harvester element 611 being disconnected from a second energy harvester element 621, the path switching element 613 forms a parallel rectification path for the second energy harvester element 621. Reference will be made below. Figures 12 to 14 Examples of rectification paths formed by the path switching element 613 are described.

[0094] The second energy harvester element 621 is connected to the second rectifier 622 and to the first energy harvester element 611 via a connection switch element 691. The second rectifier 622 includes a path switch element 623. If the first energy harvester element 611 and the second energy harvester element 621 are connected in series via the connection switch element 691, then the path switch elements 613 and 623 form a rectified path for the electricity generated by the two energy harvester elements 611 and 621.

[0095] In addition, the power supply unit 600 also includes a controller. Connection and disconnect signals applied to the connection switching elements are generated by the controller. The controller applies one of the connection and disconnect signals to each connection switching element based on at least one of the current output from each energy harvester element and the current output from the rectifier. If the path switching elements 613 and 623 are configured as on / off switches, the controller applies signals for forming the rectifier path to each on / off switch according to the array of energy harvester elements.

[0096] For reference, here, "on switch" means the operation of turning on (e.g., activating) the switch. "Off switch" means the operation of turning off the switch (e.g., deactivating) the switch.

[0097] For example, the first energy harvester element 611 is a piezoelectric element, and the load 614 is a battery. The power supply device 600 includes multiple piezoelectric elements, switching elements (e.g., connection switching element 691 and / or path switching elements 613 and 623), and a first rectifier 612. The multiple piezoelectric elements are connected to the battery or load 614 to generate electricity by receiving a wireless signal and to supply the generated electricity to the battery 614. The power supply device 600 includes four or more piezoelectric elements. The dimensions of each of the multiple piezoelectric elements are less than or equal to 5 mm. However, this is not an isolated example. The average length of each piezoelectric element (e.g., the average of its height, width, and length) is less than or equal to 5 mm. The switching element switches between a series connection and a parallel connection of the multiple piezoelectric elements. The series or parallel connection of the multiple piezoelectric elements is determined based on the state of charge of the battery. The switching element is configured as a non-volatile memory switch and maintains one of the series or parallel connections of the multiple piezoelectric elements based on a pre-stored switching state. For reference, the wireless signal is an ultrasonic signal.

[0098] Furthermore, the first rectifier 612 of the power supply device 600 is connected to each of the plurality of piezoelectric elements. The series or parallel connection of the plurality of piezoelectric elements is determined based on the current value output from the first rectifier 612. In response to a current value output from the first rectifier 612 being less than a threshold current, the power supply device 600 uses a switching element to increase the number of piezoelectric elements connected in series among the plurality of piezoelectric elements. When the power rectified by the first rectifier 612 is supplied to the battery 614, the power supply device 600 maintains the connection state of the plurality of piezoelectric elements.

[0099] Figure 7 An example of the configuration of energy harvester elements is shown.

[0100] The power supply device 710 includes multiple energy harvester elements, rather than a single energy harvester element 711. For example, by dynamically changing the structure of the array of multiple energy harvester elements within a limited form factor, the power supply device 710 receives external energy signals more stably.

[0101] For example, Figure 7 An example structure is shown, consisting of multiple piezoelectric elements divided into N dimensions instead of a single piezoelectric element. The current I output from the piezoelectric element... PZ and voltage V PZ The current I output from an array of multiple piezoelectric elements varies depending on the array of piezoelectric elements. If a single piezoelectric element of a predetermined size is divided into N piezoelectric elements, the current I output from the array of N piezoelectric elements connected in series will vary. PZ The voltage V output from an array of N piezoelectric elements connected in series can be changed by a factor of at most 1 / N. PZ The maximum change is N times. N is an integer greater than or equal to "2". Figure 7 This is an example where N=4. The piezoelectric element that constitutes a single energy harvester element 712 is called a unit piezoelectric element.

[0102] The power supply device 710 generates power in parallel by connecting each of a plurality of piezoelectric elements, divided into a default array, to a separate rectifier. If insufficient current is output from the rectifier in a predetermined environment, the power supply device 710 increases the number of piezoelectric elements connected in series, thereby providing power more consistently. The following will refer to... Figure 9 Describe an example of changing the number of piezoelectric elements connected in series.

[0103] Figure 8 Examples of per-region characteristics of an energy harvester element according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0104] The first and second energy harvester elements are formed of materials that vibrate in response to the reception of an external energy signal, and may have the same resonant frequency. All energy harvester elements are constructed to include the same material and have the same resonant frequency.

[0105] For example, if the piezoelectric element is formed of a material with predetermined properties, it is designed to have a height corresponding to its resonant frequency (e.g., the ultrasonic resonant frequency). For instance, piezoelectric elements with the same height will have the same resonant frequency even if they differ in area. The area of ​​the piezoelectric element is determined based on the amount of electricity to be collected. Figure 8 As shown, the energy conversion efficiency increases as the area of ​​the piezoelectric element decreases.

[0106] As a reference, the optimal width and maximum width for the height of the piezoelectric element are determined based on the vibration mode of the material of the piezoelectric element.

[0107] Figure 9 Examples illustrating voltage and current relationships for series and parallel connections of energy harvester elements according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0108] The implantable wireless power management integrated circuit (PMIC) is designed to generate power as stably as possible, even when an RX transducer (e.g., energy harvester element 910) located in the human body is repositioned to a predetermined position or rotated by a predetermined angle. If the electrical path for a single piezoelectric element is fixed, the energy conversion efficiency of the energy harvester element 910 decreases in response to misalignment of the transmission axis between the energy harvester element 910 and the power transmitter. This is because: in response to misalignment of the transmission axis between the energy harvester element 910 and the power transmitter, the peak current I output from the energy harvester element 910 decreases. Peak The current decreases, and the output voltage decreases as the current decreases, therefore... Figure 4 As described above, the rectifier at the rear end of the energy harvester element 910 is difficult to operate.

[0109] The power supply unit regulates the voltage and current supplied to the rectifier from multiple energy harvester elements by changing the array of energy harvester elements. Figure 9An example of a power supply device including four energy harvester elements is shown. Furthermore, energy harvester element 910 and other energy harvester elements disposed adjacent to energy harvester element 910 are arranged on the same plane and have receiving axes 919 parallel to each other. Therefore, energy harvester element 910 and other energy harvester elements disposed adjacent to energy harvester element 910 generate electricity with the same or similar current value in response to an external energy signal being transmitted while vibrating along the same transmission axis. However, the example is not limited to this. The receiving axes 919 of energy harvester element 910 and other energy harvester elements can be arranged differently, such that energy harvester element 910 can generate electricity from an external energy signal received from a predetermined direction.

[0110] For example, in the first array 921, four energy harvester elements are connected in parallel with each other. As described above, multiple energy harvester elements are modeled as current sources generating electricity with the same current value. Assume that a single energy harvester element 910 outputs a current I. PZ and voltage V PZ The first array 921 outputs a current of 4I. PZ and voltage V PZ Because the two energy harvester elements in the second array 922 are connected in series, the output voltage of the second array 922 is 2V. PZ Because the two energy harvester elements in the second array 922 are connected in parallel, the output current of the second array 922 is 2I. PZ Because the four energy harvester elements in the third array 923 are connected in series, the output voltage of the third array 923 is 4V. PZ and current I PZ For reference, and for descriptive purposes, Figure 9 The diagram illustrates energy harvester element 910 and other energy harvester elements positioned in different locations in series and parallel connections. However, in actual implementations, the physical locations of energy harvester element 910 and other energy harvester elements may be fixed rather than changing. In this example, only the electrical connections between the energy harvester elements are controllable.

[0111] Figure 10 An example of an array of energy harvester elements according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0112] Multiple energy harvester elements 1010 (e.g., P1, P2, P3, and P4) are connected via multiple connection switching elements SW. CF1 To SW CF13 Connection. In Figure 10 In the example, there are thirteen connecting switching elements SW CF1 To SW CF13It can be connected to four energy harvester elements 1010. Multiple connection switching elements switch between series and parallel connections of the multiple energy harvester elements 1010. The controller applies a connection signal or a disconnect signal to each of the multiple connection switches, and the multiple energy harvester elements 1010 can act as... Figure 9 One of the arrays shown operates. Rectifier 1020 rectifies the power generated by the plurality of energy harvester elements 1010 forming a predetermined array. Connecting switching element SW CF1 To SW CF13 Includes: a connection switch SW configured to connect each energy harvester element to the rectifier 1020. CF1 To SW CF4 and SW CF10 To SW CF13 The connection switch SW configured to connect the energy harvester element 1010 in series CF5 SW CF6 and SW CF7 and the connection switch SW configured to connect the energy harvester element 1010 in parallel. CF8 and SW CF9 .

[0113] In the first array 1011, multiple energy harvester elements 1010 are connected in parallel with each other and supply power to the rectifier 1020 respectively. Therefore, the connection switch SW... CF1 To SW CF4 and SW CF10 To SW CF13 It is switched on in response to a connection signal from the controller. (See reference...) Figure 9 The sum of the currents output from each energy harvester element 1010 in the first array 1011 is described above. Figure 10 4I in PZ ) and a single voltage V OC It is output to rectifier 1020.

[0114] In the second array 1012, energy harvester elements 1010 are connected in parallel in pairs. Furthermore, two of the energy harvester elements 1010 are connected in series along the rectification path formed for the rectifier 1020. Therefore, the connection switch SW... CF1 SW CF2 SW CF12 and SW CF13 SW, a connection switch for parallel connection CF8 and SW CF9 and the connecting switch SW for series connection. CF6 It is activated in response to a signal from the controller. (See reference...) Figure 9The sum of the currents output from the two parallel-connected energy harvester elements 1010 in the second array 1012 is described above. Figure 10 2I in PZ ) and the sum of the voltages output from the two energy harvester elements 1010 connected in series ( Figure 10 2V in OC The output is sent to rectifier 1020.

[0115] In the third array 1013, all four energy harvester elements 1010 are connected in series. Therefore, the connection switch SW connected to both ends of the series-connected energy harvester elements 1010 is... CF1 and SW CF13 and the connection switch SW for series connection CF5 SW CF6 and SW CF7 It is activated in response to a signal from the controller. (See reference...) Figure 9 The sum of the voltages output from the four energy harvester elements 1010 connected in series in the third array 1013 is described above. Figure 10 4V in OC The output is sent to rectifier 1020.

[0116] As described above, the series and parallel connections of multiple energy harvester elements are switched in response to the activation and deactivation of the connection switching element, and the number of energy harvester elements connected in series and in parallel among the multiple energy harvester elements is adjusted. When the array of multiple energy harvester elements changes, the generated power also changes along its electrical path to the rectifier. When the array of energy harvester elements changes, the ratio of current to voltage output to the rectifier is adjusted. Therefore, despite the angular alignment error between the transmitting shaft of the power transmitter and the receiving shaft of the power supply unit, the power supply unit continuously operates the rectifier 1020, thereby stably generating power in response to the receipt of an external energy signal.

[0117] However, the configuration of the connecting switching elements is not limited to this. In the following, a circuit structure that generates electricity in response to the receipt of an external energy signal will be described by means of another configuration of the connecting switching elements, even in an environment where there is no battery as a load or in an environment where the battery is fully discharged.

[0118] Figure 11 An example of a circuit diagram showing a power supply device according to one or more embodiments.

[0119] Reference Figure 11The power supply unit 1100 includes multiple energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113 and 1114, multiple rectifiers 1121, 1122, 1123 and 1124, and multiple connection switching elements SW. CF1 SW CF2 and SW CF3 Multiple connection switching elements SW CF1 SW CF2 and SW CF3 These are connected between multiple energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 1114. For example, if the power supply unit 1100 includes N energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 1114, then the power supply unit 1100 includes N-1 connection switching elements SW. CF1 SW CF2 and SW CF3 The rectifiers are connected to the output of each of the multiple energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 1114. For example, if the power supply unit 1100 includes N energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 114, then the power supply unit 1100 includes N rectifiers 1121, 1122, 1123, and 1124. For reference, and for ease of description, Figure 11 Multiple energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 1114 are shown arranged in rows. However, the implemented arrangement is not limited to this. Multiple energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 1114 may be as shown in reference... Figure 9 The arrangement can be on a predetermined plane, or it can be arranged in other ways.

[0120] The rectifier includes multiple path switching elements SW for forming the rectification path. R11 To SW R44 For example, rectifiers typically include four-path switching elements. These four elements include a first-path switch and a fourth-path switch, as well as a second-path switch and a third-path switch. The first-path and fourth-path switches are activated during periods when the voltage of the power generated by the energy harvester elements exhibits a positive waveform, while the second-path and third-path switches are activated during periods when the voltage of the power generated by the energy harvester elements exhibits a negative waveform. The first-path and fourth-path switches, along with the second-path and third-path switches, constitute a rectifier circuit, for example, a bridge circuit structure. (Refer to...) Figures 12 to 14 Describes the rectifier path formed by the activation and / or deactivation of the first path switch, the fourth path switch, the second path switch, and the third path switch in response to the switching of the connected switching elements.

[0121] exist Figure 11In this configuration, the first energy harvester element 1111 is connected to the first rectifier 1121. The first rectifier 1121 includes four path switching elements SW. R11 SW R12 SW R13 and SW R14 The first path switch SW is activated during the period when the voltage of the electricity generated by the first energy harvester element 1111 exhibits a positive waveform. R11 and the fourth path switch SW R14 And the second path switch SW is activated during the period when the voltage of the electricity generated by the first energy harvester element 1111 exhibits a negative waveform. R12 and the third path switch SW R13 The first connecting switching element SW CF1 It is connected between the first energy harvester element 1111 and the second energy harvester element 1112. The second energy harvester element 1112 is connected to the second rectifier 1122, which includes four path switching elements SW. R21 SW R22 SW R23 and SW R24 The second connecting switching element SW CF2 It is connected between the second energy harvester element 1112 and the third energy harvester element 1113. The third energy harvester element 1113 is connected to the third rectifier 1123, which includes four path switching elements SW. R31 SW R32 SW R33 and SW R34 The third connecting switch element SW CF3 It is connected between the third energy harvester element 1113 and the fourth energy harvester element 1114. The fourth energy harvester element 1114 is connected to the fourth rectifier 1124, which includes four path switching elements SW. R41 SW R42 SW R43 and SW R44 .

[0122] The outputs of rectifiers 1121, 1122, 1123, and 1124 are connected to the same output node N. out .exist Figure 11 In the middle, capacitor C acts as a load. RECT Connect to output node N out .

[0123] In addition, the connecting switching element SW CF1 SW CF2 and SW CF3The power supply unit 1100 is configured as a non-volatile memory switch to maintain one of the connections and disconnections between the first and second energy harvester elements based on pre-stored switching states. Therefore, even when an external energy signal is received while the battery is not set or its state of charge is below a threshold, the power supply unit 1100 uses the non-volatile memory switch to connect energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 1114 to a default array. The default array changes based on the connection state of the non-volatile memory switch. For example, if... Figure 11 If four energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 1114 are configured as shown in the diagram, then the power supply unit 1100 uses a non-volatile memory switch to designate one of the 4×1, 2×2, and 1×4 arrays as the default array. The power supply unit 1100 performs a cold start function with one of the various default arrays (e.g., 4×1, 2×2, and 1×4 arrays). Based on the number of energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 1114 connected in series in the default array, the minimum current and minimum voltage of the power generated by each energy harvester element to perform the cold start are changed.

[0124] For reference, if the switching element SW is connected CF1 SW CF2 and SW CF3 Constructed as CMOS switches rather than non-volatile memory switches, all CMOS switches are turned off if no power is supplied. Therefore, the default array is an array (e.g., a 4×1 array) comprising individual energy harvester elements connected in parallel. In this example, an individual energy harvester element satisfies the condition according to Equation 1 if the error angle between the receiving axis of the individual energy harvester element and the transmitting axis of the power transmitter is less than a threshold angle. Therefore, the power supply unit 1100 performs a cold start function even when all energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 1114 are connected in parallel.

[0125] In terms of circuits, the circuit consists of Figure 11 The total area occupied by the four rectifiers is equal to that of the four rectifiers. Figure 10 The area occupied by a single rectifier is essentially the same. This is because the die area is the same. Since the area required for circuit implementation does not increase, the unit production cost remains unchanged. Figure 10 A single rectifier 1020 receives current (e.g., N×I) from up to N piezoelectric elements in parallel. PZ Therefore, the dimensions of the four switches SW1 to SW4 that make up a single rectifier are increased. In contrast, Figure 11 A separate rectifier receives current from a single piezoelectric element (e.g., I0). PZ Therefore, when with Figure 10Compared to the example, the four switches that make up a single rectifier (e.g., SW in the case of the first rectifier) R11 To SW R14 The size of the rectifier is reduced to 1 / N. This size reduction results in a decrease in the trimming range of the individual rectifier. Figure 11 The total area occupied by the N rectifiers 1121 to 1124 is equal to that occupied by the N rectifiers 1121 to 1124. Figure 10 The area occupied by a single rectifier 1020 is basically the same.

[0126] In addition, Figure 11 In this structure, each rectifier can be configured as a passive diode element. Therefore, even when the battery is not embedded in the power supply device 1100 or the state of charge is insufficient, the input voltage of the rectifier is generated in response to an external energy signal. After a predetermined input voltage or a higher input voltage is formed, the power supply device 1100 changes the series and parallel connections of the piezoelectric elements.

[0127] The following description primarily uses an array comprising all parallel-connected energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 1114 as the default array. For example, multiple connected switching elements SW CF1 SW CF2 and SW CF3 It can be configured as a CMOS switch. In another example, for an array comprising all parallel-connected energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 1114, if multiple connected switching elements SW CF1 SW CF2 and SW CF3 If configured as non-volatile memory switches, the pre-stored switch state is set to the off state for each non-volatile memory switch. However, the default array is not limited to an array including all parallel-connected energy harvester elements 1111, 1112, 1113, and 1114. If multiple connected switch elements SW CF1 SW CF2 and SW CF3 If configured as a non-volatile memory switch, the default array can be specified as various arrays, such as 4×1 array, 2×2 array and 1×4 array.

[0128] Figures 12 to 14 An example of a rectification path for an array of power supply devices is shown.

[0129] Figure 12 An array of N energy harvester elements 1211, 1212, 1213, and 1214, all independently connected in parallel, is shown. Multiple connection switching elements SW are also shown. CF1 SWCF2 and SW CF3 Disconnect all.

[0130] N energy harvester elements 1211, 1212, 1213, and 1214 transmit the generated electricity to rectifiers 1221, 1222, 1223, and 1224, respectively. For example, the first energy harvester element 1211, the second energy harvester element 1212, the third energy harvester element 1213, and the fourth energy harvester element 1214 transmit the electricity to the first rectifier 1221, the second rectifier 1222, the third rectifier 1223, and the fourth rectifier 1224, respectively.

[0131] If the predetermined energy harvester element is disconnected from the second energy harvester element, the path switching elements of the separate rectifier connected to the predetermined energy harvester element form a parallel rectified path for the second energy harvester element. For example, if a voltage of a first waveform (e.g., a positive waveform) is output from the energy harvester element connected to the separate rectifier, the corresponding rectifier forms a first rectified path by activating the first path switch and the fourth path switch. In another example, if a voltage of a second waveform (e.g., a negative waveform) is output from the energy harvester element, the separate rectifier forms a second rectified path by activating the second path switch and the third path switch. When the first and fourth path switches are activated, the second and third path switches are deactivated. Conversely, when the second and third path switches are activated, the first and fourth path switches are deactivated.

[0132] In the following text, as Figure 12 In the example where N=4, the path switch SW is located in the first rectifier 1221 among the four rectifiers 1221, 1222, 1223, and 1224. R11 To SW R14 The rectification path formed by the switching on and off will be described. For example, the first rectifier 1221 is connected via the fourth path switching element SW. R14 First energy harvester element 1211 and first path switching element SW R11 The rectified power is output to the output node to form the first rectifier path 1291. The first rectifier 1221 switches on the fourth path switching element SW during a portion of the time period in which the power with a positive waveform is generated by the first energy harvester element 1211. R14 and the first path switching element SW R11 And by disconnecting the fourth path switching element SW for the remainder of that time period. R14 and the first path switching element SW R11 This forms the first rectifier path 1291.

[0133] Conversely, the first rectifier 1221 is switched via the third path switching element SW. R13 First energy harvester element 1211 and second path switching element SW R12 The rectified power is output to the output node to form the second rectified path 1292. The first rectifier 1221 switches on the third path switching element SW during a portion of the time period when the power with a negative waveform is generated by the first energy harvester element 1211. R13 Second path switching element SW R12 And by disconnecting the third path switching element SW for the remainder of that time period. R13 Second path switching element SW R12 This forms the second rectifier path 1292.

[0134] Similarly, the second to fourth energy harvester elements 1212, 1213 and 1214 and the second to fourth rectifiers 1222, 1223 and 1224 also alternately form the first rectification path and the second rectification path.

[0135] Referenced Figure 12 This describes an example of energy harvester elements connected as a default array generating electricity in response to the receipt of an external energy signal. The default array indicates a state where all mode bits are "0". However, the example is not limited to this. The mode bit values ​​assigned to the array of energy harvester elements can vary depending on the design. If the angular alignment error between the oscillation axis of the external energy signal and the receiving axis of the energy harvester element is small, a single energy harvester element generates sufficient current, and therefore a sufficiently large voltage is input to the rectifier. In this example, even when multiple energy harvester elements are not connected in series, the rectifier can be operated using only the voltage output from each individual energy harvester element; therefore, the power supply unit 1200 generates electricity using only the default array.

[0136] Furthermore, if the battery is not embedded in the power supply unit 1200 or its state of charge is insufficient, the default mode bit value is "0". Therefore, as Figure 12 As shown, the power supply unit 1200 operates as an array comprising multiple energy harvester elements connected in parallel. Even in the absence of internal power for switching, the rectifier can form a rectification path via passive diode elements, which will refer to Figure 15 Further description. The parallel-connected energy harvester elements are physically modeled as a single energy harvester element having an area equal to the sum of the areas of the individual energy harvester elements.

[0137] Power supply unit 1200 is used Figure 12The array shown charges the battery and operates the circuitry. If the receiving axis for an external energy signal is misaligned while the circuitry is operating, the power supply unit 1200 changes the array of multiple energy harvester elements. The following will refer to... Figure 13 and Figure 14 Describe an example of forming a rectification path by changing the array.

[0138] Figure 13 An array including a portion of energy harvester elements connected in series is shown. Among the N energy harvester elements 1311, 1312, 1313, and 1314, two or more energy harvester elements are connected in series with each other. Multiple connection switching elements SW are also shown. CF1 SW CF2 and SW CF3 Part of (e.g., connecting switching element SW) CF1 and SW CF3 (Connected). Among the N energy harvester elements 1311, 1312, 1313, and 1314, k energy harvester elements are connected in series, and N / k energy harvester elements are connected in parallel. Therefore, the array is set up with a size of N / k×k. Here, k is an integer greater than or equal to "1" and less than N, and N is a multiple of k. However, N and k are not limited to these. The following will refer to... Figure 22 Describe an array where N is not a multiple of k.

[0139] If an energy harvester element connected to a rectifier is connected in series with one or more other energy harvester elements, then the path switching element of that rectifier forms a series path with another rectifier connected to one of the other energy harvester elements connected in series. For example, in a series connection of k energy harvester elements, power is transmitted to a rectifier connected to an energy harvester element at a first end and an energy harvester element at a second end. For example, if the first energy harvester element 1311 to the kth energy harvester element are connected in series, then the first rectifier 1321 and the kth rectifier form a rectification path. The first rectifier 1321 and the kth rectifier rectify the power using the series voltage output from the first energy harvester element 1311 to the kth energy harvester element.

[0140] As a reference, in Figure 13 In the example, N = 2 and k = 2. Specifically, if a voltage of the first waveform is output from the first energy harvester element 1311 and the second energy harvester element 1312, then the first rectifier 1321 activates the first path switch SW. R11 The second rectifier 1322 activates the fourth path switch SW R24This forms the first rectifier path 1391. Conversely, if a second waveform voltage is output from the first energy harvester element 1311 and the second energy harvester element 1312, the first rectifier 1321 activates the third path switch SW. R13 The second rectifier 1322 activates the second path switch SW R22 This forms the second rectifier path 1392. Figure 13 In the first rectifier path 1391, power flows along it through the fourth path switching element SW. R24 The second energy harvester element 1312, the first energy harvester element 1311, and the first path switch element SW R11 The second rectifier path 1392 is where the power flows along the third path switching element SW. R13 First energy harvester element 1311, second energy harvester element 1312, and second path switch element SW R22 The path.

[0141] Based on the control signals from the controller, control the switching elements SW of each path. R11 SW R13 SW R22 SW R24 SW R31 SW R33 SW R42 and SW R44 The on / off timing is specified. For reference, this circuit can also be used as a rectifier circuit even when the individual path switching elements are implemented as passive diodes. The following will refer to... Figure 18 Example of a passive diode component.

[0142] The third energy harvester element 1313 and the fourth energy harvester element 1314 are connected in series. The third rectifier 1323 operates similarly to the first rectifier 1321, and the fourth rectifier 1324 operates similarly to the second rectifier 1322.

[0143] However, although not in Figure 13 As shown, however, if k > 2, a portion of the rectifier can be excluded from the rectification path. If an energy harvester element connected to a rectifier is connected in series with other energy harvester elements via two or more connection switching elements, the path switching element of that rectifier excludes that rectifier from the rectification path. The second rectifier 1322 to the (k-1)th rectifier can be excluded from the rectification path. The following will refer to... Figure 14 A further example of excluding a portion of the rectifier from the rectification path is described.

[0144] If k energy harvester elements are connected in series as described above, then the voltage is k×V. PZand current N / k×I PZ The power is input to the rectifier. Therefore, even when the voltage and current generated by the individual energy harvester elements decrease due to misalignment, the power supply unit 1300 stably generates rectified power by increasing the voltage input to the rectifier via changing the array.

[0145] Figure 14 An array of energy harvester elements 1411, 1412, 1413, and 1414, all connected in series, is shown. N energy harvester elements 1411, 1412, 1413, and 1414 are connected in series. Multiple connection switching elements SW are also shown. CF1 SW CF2 and SW CF3 All connections are active. Figure 14 An example of four energy harvester elements 1411, 1412, 1413 and 1414 connected in series is shown.

[0146] The first energy harvester element 1411 to the fourth energy harvester element 1414 are connected in series. The first rectifier 1421 and the fourth rectifier 1424 form a rectification path. The first rectifier 1421 and the fourth rectifier 1424 rectify the power using the series voltage output from the first energy harvester element 1411 to the fourth energy harvester element 1414.

[0147] For example, if a voltage of the first waveform is output from the first energy harvester element 1411 to the fourth energy harvester element 1414, then the first rectifier 1421 activates the first path switch SW. R11 The fourth rectifier 1424 activates the fourth path switch SW R44 This forms the first rectifier path 1491. Conversely, if a second waveform voltage is output from the first energy harvester element 1411 to the fourth energy harvester element 1414, the first rectifier 1421 activates the third path switch SW. R13 The fourth rectifier 1424 activates the second path switch SW R42 This forms the second rectifier path 1492. Figure 14 In the first rectifier path 1491, power flows along it through the fourth path switching element SW. R44 Fourth energy harvester element 1414, third energy harvester element 1413, second energy harvester element 1412, first energy harvester element 1411, first path switch element SW R11 The second rectifier path 1492 is where the power flows along the third path switching element SW. R13First energy harvester element 1411, second energy harvester element 1412, third energy harvester element 1413, fourth energy harvester element 1414, and second path switch element SW R42 The path.

[0148] For reference, such as Figure 13 Specifically, if an energy harvester element connected to a rectifier is connected in series with other energy harvester elements via two or more connection switching elements, then the rectifier's path switching element can exclude the rectifier from the rectifier path. Figure 14 In this process, the second rectifier 1422 and the third rectifier 1423 are excluded from the rectification path. Multiple energy harvester elements are modeled as current sources generating electricity with substantially the same current (this will be referred to below). Figure 18 (Further description), and current does not flow through the second rectifier 1422 and the third rectifier 1423. This is because: if multiple energy harvester elements have the same resonant frequency, the same area, and parallel receiving shafts, then the multiple energy harvester elements will generate the same or similar current in response to the reception of an external energy signal.

[0149] As described above, if N energy harvester elements are connected in series, then the voltage is N×V. PZ and current I PZ The power is input to the rectifier. Therefore, despite misalignment, the power supply unit 1400 uses the rectifier to stably generate rectified power.

[0150] Figure 15 An example of rectifier components is shown.

[0151] As described above, using current source I PZ Capacitor C PZ and resistor R PZ Energy harvester element 1510 is modeled. The output of the individual energy harvester element 1510 is connected to rectifier 1520. Rectifier 1520 includes multiple path switching elements, for example, four path switching elements. The multiple path switching elements are turned on or off to form or cancel rectification paths. Rectifier 1520 is implemented as an active rectifier 1521 or a passive rectifier 1522. However, the example is not limited to this.

[0152] First, if the rectifier 1520 is implemented as an active rectifier 1521, the path switching element includes a passive diode element and a transistor switch. For example, the path switching element includes a first diode D. A1 Second diode D A2The system comprises a first transistor M1, a second transistor M2, a third transistor M3, a fourth transistor M4, a first amplifier AMP1, and a second amplifier AMP2. The first transistor M1 and the second transistor M2 can be configured as P-type metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs), and the third transistor M3 and the fourth transistor M4 can be configured as N-type MOSFETs.

[0153] For example, the drain terminals of the first transistor M1 and the third transistor M3 are connected to each other, such that the first transistor M1 and the third transistor M3 are connected in series. The drain terminals of the first transistor M1 and the third transistor M3 are configured as the first input terminals of the rectifier 1520 and connected to the first output terminal of the energy harvester element 1510. The source terminal of the first transistor M1 is connected to the source terminal of the second transistor M2.

[0154] The two input terminals of the first amplifier AMP1 are connected to the drain and source terminals of the first transistor M1, respectively. The output terminal of the first amplifier AMP1 is connected to the gate terminal of the first transistor M1. Therefore, with the first diode D... A1 As the voltage applied in the positive direction (which will be described below) increases, the output voltage of the first amplifier AMP1 increases, causing the first transistor M1 to turn on.

[0155] First diode D A1 It is connected in parallel to the first transistor M1. For example, the first diode D A1 The anode of the first diode is connected to the drain terminal of the first transistor M1, and the first diode D... A1 The cathode of the diode is connected to the source terminal of the first transistor M1. Therefore, when the first transistor M1 is not operating, current flows through the first diode D along the first rectified path. A1 .

[0156] The drain terminals of the second transistor M2 and the fourth transistor M4 are connected in series. The drain terminals of the second transistor M2 and the fourth transistor M4 are configured as the first output terminal of the rectifier 1520 and connected to the load C. RECT One end of the transistor. The source terminal of the second transistor M2 is connected to the source terminal of the first transistor M1.

[0157] The two input terminals of the second amplifier AMP2 are connected to the drain and source terminals of the second transistor M2, respectively. The output terminal of the second amplifier AMP2 is connected to the gate terminal of the second transistor M2. Therefore, with the second diode D... A2As the voltage applied in the positive direction (which will be described below) increases, the output voltage of the second amplifier AMP2 increases, causing the second transistor M2 to turn on.

[0158] Second diode D A2 It is connected in parallel to the second transistor M2. For example, the second diode D A2 The anode of the second diode is connected to the drain terminal of the second transistor M2, and the second diode D... A2 The cathode of the diode is connected to the source terminal of the second transistor M2. Therefore, when the second transistor M2 is not operating, current flows through the second diode D along the second rectifier path. A2 Second diode D A2 The cathode of the first transistor and the source terminal of the second transistor M2 constitute the first output terminal of the rectifier 1520.

[0159] As described above, the third transistor M3 is connected in series with the first transistor M1 via its drain terminal. The source terminal of the third transistor M3 is connected to the source terminal of the fourth transistor M4. The gate terminal of the third transistor M3 is connected to the drain terminal of the fourth transistor M4 and the second output terminal of the energy harvester element 1510, and is configured as the second input terminal of the rectifier 1520. Therefore, during the period when the voltage output from the energy harvester element 1510 exhibits a second waveform (e.g., a negative waveform), if the voltage indicated by the second output terminal of the energy harvester element 1510 increases, the voltage applied to the gate terminal of the third transistor M3 is greater than the voltage applied to its source terminal, causing the third transistor M3 to turn on.

[0160] As described above, the fourth transistor M4 is connected in series with the second transistor M2 via its drain terminal. The source terminal of the fourth transistor M4 is connected to the source terminal of the third transistor M3. The gate terminal of the fourth transistor M4 is connected to the drain terminal of the third transistor M3 and the first output terminal of the energy harvester element 1510, and is configured as the first input terminal of the rectifier 1520. Therefore, during the period when the voltage output from the energy harvester element 1510 exhibits a first waveform (e.g., a positive waveform), if the voltage indicated by the first output terminal of the energy harvester element 1510 increases, the voltage applied to the gate terminal of the fourth transistor M4 is greater than the voltage applied to its source terminal, causing the fourth transistor M4 to conduct.

[0161] The gate terminal of the third transistor M3 is connected to the drain terminal of the fourth transistor M4.

[0162] The source terminals of the third transistor M3 and the fourth transistor M4 constitute the second output terminal of the rectifier 1520.

[0163] In response to the output voltage V of rectifier 1520 RECTWhen the output is greater than or equal to the threshold, transistor switches M1, M2, M3, and M4 exclude passive diode element D. A1 and D A2 And based on the current output from the energy harvester element 1510 (e.g., current I). PZ The phase of the current source is switched on and off to form a rectification path.

[0164] For example, the output voltage V of rectifier 1520 RECT Corresponding to storage in load C RECT The voltage of the electricity in the circuit. Therefore, if the output voltage V RECT If the output is greater than or equal to the threshold, then rectifier 1520 uses the data stored in load C. RECT The power in the circuit turns on the first transistor M1 during the first waveform period (e.g., a positive waveform period) to form the first rectified path. In another example, the rectifier 1520 uses power stored in the load C to conduct the first transistor M1. RECT The power in the circuit turns on the second transistor M2 during the second waveform period (e.g., the negative waveform period) to form the second rectified path. Due to the diode element D... A1 and D A2 The resistance of the diode is relatively greater than the resistance of the conducting transistor, therefore the diode element D... A1 and D A2 It is naturally excluded from the rectification path.

[0165] In addition, passive diode element D A1 and D A2 And transistor switches M1, M2, M3, and M4 respond to the output voltage V of rectifier 1520. RECT Output less than the threshold (e.g., in response to V) RECT =0V) thus forming a rectification path. Specifically, if the output voltage V RECT If the output is below the threshold, then the first transistor M1 and the second transistor M2 are turned off. Since the resistance values ​​of diode elements DA1 and DA2 are relatively smaller than the resistance values ​​of the turned-off transistors, diode elements DA1 and DA2 form a rectification path.

[0166] Therefore, if power (e.g., current) is supplied from the piezoelectric element, the active rectifier 1521 uses a passive diode element connected in parallel to the transistor switch to generate the output voltage V, even in the absence of a battery or even when the power stored in the battery is less than a threshold power. RECT Subsequently, in response to the output voltage V RECT Upon reaching the threshold output, the active rectifier 1521 forms a rectified path with higher power conversion efficiency by operating transistor switches.

[0167] In another example, rectifier 1520 is implemented as passive rectifier 1522. In passive rectifier 1522, the path switching elements are configured as a plurality of diode elements D forming the rectification path. P1 To D P4 .

[0168] For example, the first diode D P1 anode and third diode D P3 The cathode is connected and configured as the first input terminal of rectifier 1520, and the first diode D P1 and the third diode D P3 Series connection. First diode D P1 The cathode and the second diode D P2 The cathode is connected to form the first output terminal of rectifier 1520. The second diode D... P2 anode and fourth diode D P4 The cathode is connected and configured as the second input terminal of rectifier 1520, and the second diode D P2 and the fourth diode D P4 Series connection. Third diode D P3 anode and fourth diode D P4 The anodes of the diodes are connected to each other to form the second output terminal of the rectifier 1520. Therefore, multiple diode elements D... P1 To D P4 This forms a bridge circuit. Compared to the active rectifier 1521, due to the high forward voltage of the diodes (e.g., 0.5V to 0.7V), multiple diode elements D... P1 To D P4 The resulting rectification path exhibits low power conversion efficiency.

[0169] During the period when the voltage of the power output from the energy harvester element 1510 exhibits a positive waveform, the first diode D... P1 and the fourth diode D P4 The second diode D is turned on or activated to form the first rectified path. During the period when the voltage of the power output from the energy harvester element 1510 exhibits a negative waveform, the second diode D... P2 and the third diode D P3 The circuit is activated to form a second rectifier path.

[0170] As described above, the rectifier 1520 of the power supply device is implemented as an active rectifier 1521 or a passive rectifier 1522, and operates stably even when little or no power is stored therein.

[0171] Figure 16 An example circuit diagram of a power supply device including a rectifier implemented using passive components, according to one or more embodiments, is shown.

[0172] Figure 11 The rectifier can also be implemented as Figure 15 Passive rectifier. Figure 16 Example circuit structures are shown for passive rectifiers 1621, 1622, 1623 and 1624 connected to energy harvester elements 1611, 1612, 1613 and 1614.

[0173] When switching the connection element SW CF1 SW CF2 and SW CF3 When determining the array of energy harvester elements 1611, 1612, 1613, and 1614, the passive diode elements D of passive rectifiers 1621, 1622, 1623, and 1614 are... U11 To D U44 The rectification path corresponding to the defined array is formed, which will be referred to in the following... Figures 17 to 19 Further description will be provided in the following references. Figures 17 to 19 Describe the rectification path of the array.

[0174] For reference, passive diode element D U11 To D U44 The sum of the areas and Figure 10 The diodes shown have areas that are the same or similar. Therefore, since the power supply unit 1600 uses the switches and diodes of each rectifier to form rectified paths corresponding to changes in the array of energy harvester elements 1611, 1612, 1613, and 1614, the connection switching element SW for changing the array of energy harvester elements 1611, 1612, 1613, and 1614 is used. CF1 SW CF2 and SW CF3 The quantity and area decreased.

[0175] Figures 17 to 19 Show Figure 16 An example of the rectification path of an array of power supply devices.

[0176] With Figure 12 Similar to what is shown, Figure 17 An array is shown in which multiple energy harvester elements 1711, 1712, 1713, and 1714 are all independently connected in parallel. (Similar to...) Figure 16 Similarly, as shown, rectifiers 1721, 1722, 1723, and 1724 are constructed as passive diode elements. These passive diode elements are configured as a bridge circuit within the rectifier, thus the first diode D... U11 and the fourth diode D U14 Forming the first rectifier path 1791, and the second diode D U12 and the third diode DU13 The second rectifier path 1792 is formed.

[0177] With Figure 13 Similar to what is shown, Figure 18 An array is shown in which a portion of multiple energy harvester elements 1811, 1812, 1813, and 1814 are connected in series. (As shown in the image) Figure 16 Similar to those shown, rectifiers 1821, 1822, 1823, and 1824 are constructed as passive diode elements. Although... Figure 13 different, Figure 18 An example is shown where the path switching element of the rectifier is constructed as a passive diode element, but Figure 18 Examples and Figure 13 Examples of these form the same rectifier path.

[0178] For example, the first to fourth energy harvester elements 1811, 1812, 1813, and 1814 can be configured to have the same or similar receiving shafts. Similar to... Figure 9 In this example, the first to fourth energy harvester elements 1811, 1812, 1813, and 1814 are arranged in the same plane. In this example, when the power supply receives an external energy signal vibrating along a predetermined axis, the first energy harvester element 1811 and the second energy harvester element 1812 are considered as current sources generating substantially the same level of current. A large portion of the current generated by the second energy harvester element 1812 is transmitted via the first connection switching element SW. CF1 The two endpoints N E1 and N E2 The current is transmitted to the first energy harvester element 1811. Therefore, in one example, the current generated by the second energy harvester element 1812 does not flow through the first diode D of the second rectifier 1822. U21 Similarly, this current does not flow through the fourth diode D of the first rectifier 1821. U14 As a result, the first diode D of the second rectifier 1822... U21 and the fourth diode D of the first rectifier 1821 U14 It is excluded from the first rectifier path 1891. Similarly, the third diode D of the second rectifier 1822 is excluded. U23 and the second diode D of the first rectifier 1821 U12 The passive diode element is excluded from the second rectifier path 1892. Furthermore, in the third rectifier 1823 and the fourth rectifier 1824, a portion of the passive diode element is automatically excluded from the rectifier path, thereby automatically forming a rectifier path for the remaining passive diode element connected in series to the energy harvester element. The remaining elements are as described in reference... Figure 13The operation is described above, so repeated descriptions are omitted here for the sake of brevity.

[0179] With Figure 14 Similar to what is shown, Figure 19 An array is shown in which multiple energy harvester elements 1911, 1912, 1913, and 1914 are all connected in series. (Similar to...) Figure 16 Similar to those shown, rectifiers 1921, 1922, 1923, and 1924 are constructed as passive diode elements. Figure 19 In, as referenced Figure 18 The path switching elements, configured as passive diode elements, form rectifier paths 1991 and 1992.

[0180] Figure 20 and Figure 21 Examples of simulation results showing the changes in current and voltage of an array of energy harvester elements in a power supply device according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0181] Figure 20 Simulation result 2000 is shown, illustrating operation in state 2010 where the transmit and receive axes are aligned in a single energy harvester element, and in state 2020 where the transmit and receive axes are not aligned.

[0182] First, in alignment state 2010, the individual energy harvester element generates the desired current value I. PZ The electricity. When the current collected by a single energy harvester element IPZ_UNIT indicates the desired current value I. PZ At this point, a voltage sufficient to operate the rectifier is generated. Therefore, the input current to the rectifier, IPZ_RECT_IN, and the output current of the rectifier, IRECT_TOTAL, can occur. As a result, the load capacitor is charged, causing the rectifier's output voltage, VRECT, to increase.

[0183] Conversely, in misaligned state 2020, the current IPZ_UNIT collected by the individual energy harvester elements decreases. For example, if the collected current IPZ_UNIT decreases to 1 / 3I... PZ If the voltage generated by a single energy harvester element is insufficient to operate the rectifier, then there is no input current IPZ_RECT_IN to the rectifier, and therefore no output current IRECT_TOTAL. As a result, the charging of the load capacitor is suspended, causing the rectifier's output voltage VRECT not to increase.

[0184] Figure 21 Simulation results 2100 show the results of a process that generates electricity even in an misaligned state by changing the array of energy harvester elements via a power supply device.

[0185] First, as referenced above Figure 20 In the example of the default array (e.g., a 4×1 array 2110), the current and voltage output from the individual energy harvester are low in the misaligned state, so the rectifier does not operate.

[0186] The power supply device switches the connection between one energy harvester element and another based on the current output from the rectifier via connection switching elements. For example, in response to the current output from the rectifier being less than a threshold current, the power supply device uses multiple connection switching elements to additionally connect one or more other harvester elements in series to the energy harvester element. In response to the addition of a second energy harvester element connected in series to a predetermined first energy harvester element, the path switching elements of the rectifier connected to the energy harvester element dynamically change the rectification path. For example, the path switching elements form a rectification path by cooperating with the second rectifier, or exclude the predetermined first rectifier from the rectification path. Through the dynamic change of the rectification path, the power supply device regulates the voltage applied to the input of the rectifier forming the rectification path and the current supplied to the rectifier.

[0187] For example, in a 2×2 array 2120, the current generated by the individual energy harvester elements of the power supply unit is still 1 / 3I. PZ However, because the two energy harvester elements are connected in series, the voltage applied to the rectifier increases. Therefore, the input current IPZ_RECT_IN and the rectifier output current IRECT_TOTAL are generated. As a result, the load capacitor is recharged, causing the rectifier output voltage VRECT to also increase. Furthermore, if the power supply changes the array of energy harvester elements to a 1×4 array 2130, the input current IPZ_RECT_IN remains the same, but the rectifier output current IRECT_TOTAL decreases. This can be interpreted as the power conversion efficiency decreasing compared to a 2×2 array 2120, although the load capacitor is charged.

[0188] The power supply unit (e.g., a controller) monitors the current output from the rectifier for each connection state between a first energy harvester element and one or more second energy harvester elements, and determines the connection state with the maximum output current among multiple connection states. Therefore, in Figure 21 In the example, the power supply monitors the current output from the rectifiers in the 4×1 array 2110, the 2×2 array 2120, and the 1×4 array 2130, and identifies the array of energy harvester elements as the 2×2 array 2120, which shows the highest current among the arrays.

[0189] Then, while the power rectified by the rectifier is supplied to the load, the power supply unit maintains a defined connection state.

[0190] Figure 22 An example is shown of grouping multiple energy harvesters to form a rectification path in a power supply device, according to one or more embodiments.

[0191] Reference Figure 22 The power supply unit 2200 includes multiple energy harvester elements, multiple rectifiers, and a load 2290.

[0192] Multiple energy harvester elements generate electricity in response to an external energy signal received in the power supply unit 2200. These multiple energy harvester elements can be connected via multiple connection switching elements. As described above, a detailed description of the energy harvester elements will be omitted for brevity.

[0193] Multiple connection switching elements switch the connection between multiple energy harvester elements. The operation of the connection switching elements is as described above, so a detailed description will be omitted for brevity.

[0194] Multiple rectifiers can be connected independently to multiple energy harvester elements. Each of the multiple rectifiers includes a path switching element configured to dynamically form a rectification path for the power generated by the multiple energy harvester elements in response to switching of the multiple connection switching elements. If the multiple energy harvester elements are connected in series, each rectifier rectifies the power having voltages applied across the multiple energy harvester elements and supplies the rectified power to load 2290. Load 2290 is connected to the output of the rectifier. The detailed operation of the rectifiers is as described above, and therefore a detailed description will be omitted for brevity.

[0195] For example, multiple energy harvester elements are categorized into multiple power generation groups using the aforementioned connecting switching elements. The energy harvester elements within each power generation group are connected in series. The number of energy harvester elements connected in series in each power generation group is the same as the number of energy harvester elements connected in series in another power generation group. This is because multiple rectifiers deliver rectified power to a single load 2290, and each power generation group should generate similar power to optimize power conversion efficiency. However, the example is not limited to this. Each power generation group may include a different number of energy harvester elements.

[0196] Furthermore, a portion of multiple energy harvester elements can be excluded based on the power generation operation. For example, an array may include N energy harvester elements, while a separate power generation group may include k energy harvester elements. A first group 2201 includes first energy harvester elements 2211 to kth energy harvester elements 2218 connected in series, and a first rectifier 2212 and a kth rectifier 2219 form a rectification path. The first rectifier 2212 and the kth rectifier 2219 rectify the power generated by the series-connected first energy harvester elements 2211 to kth energy harvester elements 2218 and provide the rectified power to the load 2290. Similarly, an i-th group 2202 includes k energy harvester elements connected in series. Here, i is an integer greater than or equal to "1" and less than or equal to N / k. If N is not an integer multiple of k, then N - [N / k] × k energy harvester elements are not connected in series. Here, [N / k] represents the largest integer less than N / k. For example, if N = 5 and k = 2, then "1" energy harvester element is not connected in series. Power supply unit 2200 creates a power generation group by connecting the same number of energy harvester elements in series and excludes the remaining energy harvester elements 2251 that do not belong to the power generation group from the rectification path. For example, power supply unit 2200 disconnects the remaining energy harvester elements 2251 from the rectifier 2252.

[0197] Figure 23 An example of a power supply method is shown. It can be performed in the order and manner shown. Figure 23 The operations described herein may be performed, but the order of some operations or some operations may be changed or omitted without departing from the spirit and scope of the exemplary examples described. Figure 23 Many of the operations shown can be performed in parallel or simultaneously. This can be implemented by a computer based on dedicated hardware or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions that performs the specified functions. Figure 23 One or more blocks, and combinations of blocks. (Except for the following...) Figure 23 In addition to the description, Figures 1 to 22 The description also applies to Figure 23 And it is included here by reference. Therefore, the above description need not be repeated here.

[0198] Reference Figure 23 In operation 2310, the first energy harvester element generates electricity in response to an external energy signal being received in the power supply device. The configuration and operation of the first energy harvester element are as described above, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted for brevity.

[0199] In operation 2320, the power supply device switches the connection between the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element via connection switching elements based on the generated power. If the connection switching elements are configured as non-volatile memory switches, each connection switching element sets the energy harvester element to a pre-specified default array by forming a connection of a pre-stored state.

[0200] In operation 2330, the power supply device forms a rectified path for at least one of the second energy harvester element and the first energy harvester element in response to switching. For example, in response to the rectified power output from the rectifier having a current less than a threshold current, the power supply device further connects the second energy harvester element in series with the first energy harvester element. Here, according to Figures 11 to 14 as well as Figures 16 to 19 The connection switch configuration is used to form the rectification path. However, the example is not limited to this. It can also be based on... Figure 10 The connection switch configuration is used to form the rectification path.

[0201] In operation 2340, while the power generated by the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element and rectified by the rectifier is supplied to the load, the power supply device maintains the formed rectification path.

[0202] The operation of the power supply device is not limited to operations 2310 to 2340 described above. This operation can be compared with reference to... Figures 1 to 22 At least one of the described operations is executed sequentially or in parallel.

[0203] Figure 24 An example is shown, illustrating the range of operating currents for a power supply unit that outputs current from individual energy harvester elements.

[0204] exist Figure 24 In graph 2400, the horizontal axis indicates the current generated by a single piezoelectric element and measured in mA, and the vertical axis indicates the power output from the rectifier and measured in mW. The current generated by the piezoelectric element varies depending on the misalignment angle of the receiving shaft. In graph 2400, the first curve 2410 represents a 1×4 array, the second curve 2420 represents a 2×2 array, and the third curve 2430 represents a 4×1 array. According to the first curve 2410, the rectifier output power of the 1×4 array power supply device is at least 0.2mA per unit piezoelectric element. However, the maximum output power is limited to approximately 3.0mW. In contrast, according to the third curve 2430, the 4×1 array power supply device exhibits a maximum output power of 6mW. However, if the current output by a single piezoelectric element is less than 0.8mA, the operation of its rectifier is suspended.

[0205] A power supply device (e.g., a controller) determines an array corresponding to the current values ​​output from individual energy harvester elements via a rectifier, and forms a connection of multiple energy harvester elements using multiple connection switching elements based on the determined array. For example, the power supply device stores a lookup table in which the output current values ​​of the rectifier are mapped to mode bit values ​​indicating the arrays corresponding to the output current values. The power supply device searches the lookup table for the arrays corresponding to the output current values ​​and connects the energy harvester elements using connection switching elements according to the found arrays. Hereinafter, for ease of description, the array mapping performed based on the current values ​​output from a single piezoelectric element will be described. However, examples can be similarly applied to lookup tables in which current values ​​output from the rectifier are mapped to the arrays corresponding to the output values.

[0206] The power supply unit connects energy harvester elements in an array to generate maximum power for each range of current output from each individual energy harvester element. For example, refer to... Figure 24 If the unit piezoelectric element outputs current within a first current range (e.g., 0.2mA to 0.65mA), the power supply connects the energy harvester elements in a first array (e.g., a 1×4 array). If the unit piezoelectric element outputs current within a second current range (e.g., 0.65mA to 1.13mA), the power supply connects the energy harvester elements in a second array (e.g., a 2×2 array). If the unit piezoelectric element outputs current within a third current range (e.g., 1.13mA or higher), the power supply connects the energy harvester elements in a third array (e.g., a 4×1 array). Therefore, the power supply generates power according to curve 2490, which generates the maximum power, while simultaneously expanding the current range within which the rectifier can operate.

[0207] Figure 25 An example of a graph illustrating the range of misaligned operating angles between the receiving and transmitting axes of a power supply device, according to one or more embodiments.

[0208] The receiving shaft of the power supply unit may be misaligned with the transmitting shaft of the power transmitter. The degree of misalignment between the receiving and transmitting shafts is called the error angle 25°. Figure 25 In the power curve 2590, the horizontal axis indicates the error angle 2510, and the vertical axis indicates the value obtained by normalizing the power generated by the piezoelectric elements of each generated array.

[0209] In the power curve diagram 2590, the first curve 2551 represents the power generated by a 4×1 array of piezoelectric elements (e.g., four piezoelectric elements connected in parallel), the second curve 2552 represents the power generated by a 2×2 array of piezoelectric elements (e.g., two piezoelectric elements connected in parallel and two piezoelectric elements connected in series), and the third curve 2553 represents the power generated by a 1×4 array of piezoelectric elements (e.g., four piezoelectric elements connected in series). As described above, if the power output from the piezoelectric elements connected according to the predetermined array is less than a threshold power, the rectifier does not operate. Therefore, the piezoelectric elements connected in parallel as in the first curve 2551 have a narrow range of error angles for power conversion. The power supply device changes the array of piezoelectric elements, thereby operating according to curve 2591, which has a wider range of error angles for power conversion.

[0210] The power supply unit can perform a cold start function while changing the array of energy harvester elements. Therefore, even when implanted in the body, the power supply unit can exhibit optimal power conversion efficiency for wirelessly received external energy signals.

[0211] The power supply device can be used in all applications where batteries cannot be easily replaced and the current output from the piezoelectric element can be significantly varied depending on the circumstances. For example, the power supply device can be implemented as an implantable medical device, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, a wearable device, or a sensor system for hazardous areas.

[0212] Regarding Figures 1 to 25The described power supply systems 100, 200, 310, 400, 600, 710, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, and 2200 are implemented as hardware components and are carried out by hardware components. Examples of hardware components that can be used to perform the operations described in this application include, where appropriate, controllers, sensors, generators, drivers, memories, comparators, arithmetic logic module units, adders, subtractors, multipliers, dividers, integrators, and any other electronic components configured to perform the operations described in this application. In other examples, one or more of the hardware components performing the operations described in this application are implemented by computing hardware (e.g., by one or more processors or computers). A processor or computer may be implemented using one or more processing elements, such as logic gate arrays, controllers and arithmetic logic units, digital signal processors, microcomputers, programmable logic controllers, field-programmable gate arrays, programmable logic arrays, microprocessors, or any other means or combination of means configured to respond to and execute instructions in a defined manner to achieve a desired result. In one example, the processor or computer includes or is connected to one or more memories storing instructions or software executed by the processor or computer. Hardware components implemented by the processor or computer may execute instructions or software (such as an operating system (OS) and one or more software applications running on the OS) for performing the operations described herein. The hardware components may also access, manipulate, process, create, and store data in response to the execution of instructions or software. For simplicity, the singular terms “processor” or “computer” may be used in the description of the examples described herein; however, in other examples, multiple processors or computers may be used, or a processor or computer may include multiple processing elements or multiple types of processing elements or both. For example, a single hardware component or two or more hardware components may be implemented using a single processor, or two or more processors, or a processor and a controller. One or more hardware components may be implemented using one or more processors, or processors and controllers. One or more other hardware components may be implemented using one or more other processors, or additional processors and additional controllers. One or more processors, or processors and controllers, may implement a single hardware component or two or more hardware components. Hardware components may have any one or more different processing configurations, examples of which include: a single processor, a discrete processor, a parallel processor, Single Instruction Single Data (SISD) multiple processing, Single Instruction Multiple Data (SIMD) multiple processing, Multiple Instruction Single Data (MISD) multiple processing, and Multiple Instruction Multiple Data (MIMD) multiple processing.

[0213] Figures 1 to 25The methods for performing the operations described in this application, as shown, are executed by computing hardware (e.g., by one or more processors or a computer), which is implemented to execute instructions or software as described above to perform the operations performed by the methods described in this application. For example, a single operation or two or more operations may be executed by a single processor or two or more processors, or a processor and a controller. One or more operations may be executed by one or more processors, or a processor and a controller, and one or more other operations may be executed by one or more other processors, or additional processors and additional controllers. One or more processors, or a processor and a controller, may execute a single operation or two or more operations.

[0214] Instructions or software for controlling a processor or computer to implement hardware components and perform the methods described above are written as computer programs, code segments, instructions, or any combination thereof to individually or collectively instruct or configure the processor or computer, such as a machine or special-purpose computer, to perform operations performed by the hardware components and methods described above. In one example, the instructions or software include machine code (such as machine code generated by a compiler) that is directly executed by the processor or computer. In another example, the instructions or software include high-level code that is executed by the processor or computer using an interpreter. The instructions or software can be written in any programming language based on the block diagrams and flowcharts shown in the accompanying drawings and the corresponding descriptions in the specification, which disclose algorithms for performing operations performed by the hardware components and methods described above.

[0215] Instructions or software for controlling computing hardware (e.g., one or more processors or computers) to implement hardware components and perform the methods described above, as well as any associated data, data files, and data structures, may be recorded, stored, or fixed on one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media. Examples of non-transitory computer-readable storage media include: read-only memory (ROM), random access programmable read-only memory (PROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), flash memory, non-volatile memory, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD+R, CD-RW, CD+RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, DVD-RAM, BD-ROM, BD-R, BD-R LTH, BD-RE, Blu-ray or optical disc storage, hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), card storage (such as multimedia cards or microcards (e.g., Secure Digital (SD) or Extreme Digital (XD))), magnetic tape, floppy disk, magneto-optical data storage device, optical data storage device, hard disk, solid-state drive, and any other device configured to store instructions or software and any associated data, data files, and data structures in a non-transitory manner and to provide said instructions or software and any associated data, data files, and data structures to one or more processors or computers, such that one or more processors or computers can execute the instructions. In one example, the instructions or software and any associated data, data files, and data structures are distributed across a networked computer system, causing one or more processors or computers to store, access, and execute the instructions, software, and any associated data, data files, and data structures in a distributed manner.

[0216] While this disclosure includes specific examples, it will be clear upon understanding this disclosure that various changes in form and detail may be made to these examples without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents. The examples described herein should be considered descriptive only and not for limiting purposes. The description of features or aspects in each example will be considered applicable to similar features or aspects in other examples. Suitable results may be achieved if the described techniques are performed in a different order, and / or if components in the described system, architecture, apparatus, or circuit are combined in a different manner, and / or replaced or supplemented by other components or their equivalents. Therefore, the scope of the disclosure is not limited by the specific embodiments but by the claims and their equivalents, and all variations within the scope of the claims and their equivalents should be construed as included in the disclosure.

Claims

1. A power supply device, comprising: The first energy harvester element is configured to generate electricity in response to the receipt of an external energy signal; A connection switching element is configured to switch the connection between a first energy harvester element and a second energy harvester element; and The first rectifier includes a path switching element configured to change the rectification path in response to switching of the connection of the switching element. The first rectifier is connected to the first energy harvester element to rectify the electricity generated by the first energy harvester element along the rectification path. In this configuration, in response to the first energy harvester element being connected in series with one or more second energy harvester elements, a path switching element forms a series path with a second rectifier, and the second rectifier is connected to one of the one or more second energy harvester elements. In response to the disconnection of the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element, the path switching element forms a parallel rectified path for the second energy harvester element. The connection switching element is configured to switch the connection between the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element based on the current output from the first rectifier.

2. The power supply device of claim 1, wherein, In response to the first energy harvester element being connected in series between two or more second energy harvester elements via two or more connection switching elements, the path switching element excludes the first rectifier from the rectification path.

3. The power supply device of claim 1, wherein, The connecting switching element is configured as follows: In response to a connection signal, the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element are connected in series; and In response to a disconnect signal, the first energy harvester element is disconnected from the second energy harvester element.

4. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, In response to the current output from the first rectifier being less than the threshold current, the connection switching element is configured to further connect one or more second energy harvester elements in series with the first energy harvester element.

5. The power supply device according to claim 1, further comprising: The controller is configured to monitor the current output from the first rectifier for each connection state between the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element, and to determine the connection state with the maximum output current among the connection states.

6. The power supply device according to claim 5, wherein, The connection switching element and the path switching element are configured to maintain a defined connection state while the power rectified by the first rectifier is supplied to the load.

7. The power supply device according to claim 1, further comprising: The controller is configured to: determine an array corresponding to the current value output from the first energy harvester element through the first rectifier, and form a connection between the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element using connection switching elements based on the determined array.

8. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The connection switching element is configured as a non-volatile memory switch to maintain one of the connected and disconnected states between the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element based on pre-stored switching states.

9. The power supply device according to claim 1, further comprising: The load is connected to the output of the first rectifier. In response to the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element being connected in series, the first rectifier rectifies the power having voltages applied to the first terminals of the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element and the second terminals of the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element, and provides the rectified power to the load.

10. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element are formed of a material that vibrates in response to receiving an external energy signal, and the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element have the same resonant frequency.

11. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element are arranged on the same plane and have receiving axes that are parallel to each other.

12. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The path switching element includes multiple diode elements configured to form a rectifier path.

13. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The path switching element includes: Passive diode components and transistor switches, The passive diode element and transistor switch are configured to form a rectification path in response to the output voltage of the first rectifier being less than a threshold output, and... In response to the output voltage of the first rectifier being greater than or equal to the threshold output, the transistor switch excludes the passive diode element and forms a rectification path by switching on and off based on the current output from the first energy harvester element.

14. The power supply device according to claim 1, wherein, External energy signals are signals that propagate through a medium while vibrating, and The first energy harvester element is configured to generate electricity based on vibrations caused by receiving an external energy signal.

15. A power supply device, comprising: Multiple energy harvester elements are configured to generate electricity in response to the receipt of an external energy signal; Multiple connection switching elements are configured to switch the connection between the multiple energy harvester elements; as well as Multiple rectifiers are connected to the multiple energy harvester elements to rectify the electricity generated by the multiple energy harvester elements. Each of the plurality of rectifiers includes a path switching element, which is configured to form a rectified path for the power generated by the plurality of energy harvester elements in response to the switching of the plurality of connection switching elements. In this configuration, in response to the energy harvester element of one of the plurality of rectifiers being connected in series with one or more other energy harvester elements, the path switching element of the rectifier forms a series path with another rectifier connected to one of the one or more other energy harvester elements connected in series. In response to the energy harvester element connected to the rectifier being disconnected from the second energy harvester element among the plurality of energy harvester elements, the path switching element of the rectifier forms a parallel rectified path for the second energy harvester element. The plurality of connection switching elements are configured to switch the connection between the plurality of energy harvester elements based on the current output from the plurality of rectifiers.

16. A power supply method performed by a power supply device, the power supply method comprising: In response to the receipt of an external energy signal, electricity is generated through the first energy harvester element; Based on the generated power switching between the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element; A rectified path is formed for at least one of the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element in response to switching; The power generated by the first energy harvester element is rectified along the rectification path by a rectifier; and While the electricity generated by the first and second energy harvester elements and rectified by the rectifier is supplied to the load, the established rectification path is maintained. In this configuration, in response to the first energy harvester element being connected in series with one or more second energy harvester elements, a path switching element of the rectifier forms a series path with the second rectifier, and the second rectifier is connected to one of the one or more second energy harvester elements. In response to the disconnection of the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element, the path switching element forms a parallel rectified path for the second energy harvester element. The power supply method further includes switching the connection between the first energy harvester element and the second energy harvester element based on the current output from the rectifier by connecting a switching element.

17. The power supply method according to claim 16, wherein, The steps of forming the rectification path include: in response to the current of the rectified power output from the rectifier being less than a threshold current, additionally connecting a second energy harvester element in series with a first energy harvester element.

18. A power supply device, comprising: Battery; Multiple piezoelectric elements are connected to a battery, and the multiple piezoelectric elements are configured to generate electricity in response to the receipt of a wireless signal and to supply the generated electricity to the battery. The switching element is configured to switch between a series connection mode and a parallel connection mode of the plurality of piezoelectric elements; as well as Multiple rectifiers are connected to the multiple piezoelectric elements to rectify the power generated by the multiple piezoelectric elements. In this configuration, in response to the piezoelectric element of one of the plurality of rectifiers being connected in series with one or more other piezoelectric elements, the path switching element of the rectifier forms a series path with another rectifier connected to one of the one or more other piezoelectric elements connected in series. In response to the piezoelectric element connected to the rectifier being disconnected from the second piezoelectric element among the plurality of piezoelectric elements, the path switching element forms a parallel rectification path for the second piezoelectric element. The series or parallel connection mode of the plurality of piezoelectric elements is determined based on the current value output from the plurality of rectifiers.

19. The power supply device according to claim 18, wherein, Wireless signals are ultrasonic signals.

20. The power supply device according to claim 18, wherein, The plurality of piezoelectric elements includes four or more piezoelectric elements.

21. The power supply device according to claim 18, wherein, Each of the plurality of piezoelectric elements has a size of less than or equal to 5 mm.

22. The power supply device according to claim 18, wherein, The series or parallel connection mode of the plurality of piezoelectric elements is determined based on the state of charge of the battery.

23. The power supply device according to claim 18, wherein, The switching element is configured to increase the number of series-connected piezoelectric elements among the plurality of piezoelectric elements in response to a current value output from the rectifier being less than a threshold current.

24. The power supply device according to claim 18, wherein, The switching element is configured as a non-volatile memory switch to maintain one of the series connection mode and parallel connection mode of the plurality of piezoelectric elements based on pre-stored switching states.

25. The power supply device according to claim 18, wherein, The switching element is configured to maintain the connection state of the plurality of piezoelectric elements while the power rectified by the rectifier is supplied to the battery.

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