Magnetic alignment system with NFC for electronic devices

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a magnetic alignment system with NFC for an electronic device. A magnetic alignment system may include a primary annular magnetic alignment member and a secondary annular magnetic alignment member. The primary alignment member may include: an inner annular region having a first magnetic orientation, an outer annular region having a second magnetic orientation opposite to the first magnetic orientation, and a non-magnetized central annular region disposed between the primary inner annular region and the primary outer annular region. The secondary alignment member may have a magnetic orientation with a radial component. Additional features may be included, such as a rotating magnetic alignment member and / or an NFC coil and circuitry.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefits of U.S. Provisional Application 62 / 907332, filed September 27, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 061752, filed August 5, 2020. The disclosures of these two provisional applications are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to wireless power transmission. Specifically, this disclosure relates to a magnetic alignment system with NFC for use in electronic devices. Background Technology

[0004] This disclosure relates generally to consumer electronic devices, and more specifically to magnetic alignment components and systems that facilitate the establishment and maintenance of desired alignment between two (or more) devices, for example, for the purpose of enabling efficient wireless power transmission between devices.

[0005] Portable electronic devices (such as mobile phones, media players, smartwatches, etc.) operate when their batteries store a charge. Some portable electronic devices include rechargeable batteries that can be physically coupled to a power source for recharging, such as via a charging cable. However, charging the battery in a portable electronic device using a charging cable requires the device to be physically tethered to a power outlet. Additionally, using a charging cable requires the mobile device to have a connector (typically a receptacle connector) configured to mate with the connector (typically a plug connector) of the charging cable. The receptacle connector includes a cavity in the portable electronic device that provides a pathway for dust and moisture to enter and damage the device. Furthermore, the user of the portable electronic device must physically connect the charging cable to the receptacle connector to charge the battery.

[0006] To overcome these shortcomings, wireless charging technology has been developed that uses electromagnetic induction to charge portable electronic devices without the need for charging cables. For example, some portable electronic devices can be recharged simply by placing them on the charging surface of a wireless charger. An alternating current drives a transmitter coil positioned beneath the charging surface, generating a time-varying magnetic flux that induces a current in a corresponding receiver coil within the portable electronic device. This induced current can then be used by the electronic device to charge its internal battery. Some portable electronic devices have been designed not only to wirelessly receive power but also to wirelessly transfer power to other portable electronic devices, such as accessory devices. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Among other factors, the efficiency of wireless power transmission depends on the alignment between the transmitter and receiver coils. For example, the transmitter and receiver coils perform optimally when they are coaxially aligned. Finding proper alignment can be difficult in portable electronic devices with flat surfaces lacking guiding features. Alignment is typically achieved through trial and error, which requires determining the relative positions of the user's mobile device and the charger and observing the impact on charging performance. Establishing optimal alignment in this way can be time-consuming. Furthermore, the absence of surface features makes maintaining optimal alignment challenging. For instance, if the portable electronic device and / or charger are bumped during charging, they may shift into misalignment. For these and other reasons, improved techniques for establishing and maintaining alignment between electronic devices are desirable.

[0008] According to the embodiments described herein, portable electronic devices and accessory devices may include complementary magnetic alignment components that facilitate alignment and / or attachment of the accessory device to the portable electronic device. The magnetic alignment component may include a toroidal magnetic alignment component, which in some embodiments may surround an inductive charging transmitter and receiver coil. In the naming conventions used herein, a “primary” toroidal magnetic alignment component refers to a toroidal magnetic alignment component used in a wireless charger device or other terminal accessory. A “secondary” toroidal magnetic alignment component refers to a toroidal magnetic alignment component used in a portable electronic device. An “auxiliary” toroidal magnetic alignment component refers to a toroidal magnetic alignment component used in a charge penetration accessory.

[0009] In some embodiments, the magnetic alignment system may also include a rotating magnetic alignment member that facilitates the alignment of two devices in a preferred rotational orientation. The rotating magnetic alignment member may include, for example, one or more magnets disposed outside the annular alignment member. It should be understood that any device with an annular alignment member may or may not have a rotating alignment member, and the rotating alignment member may be classified as a primary alignment member, a secondary alignment member, or an auxiliary alignment member depending on the type of device.

[0010] In some embodiments, the magnetic alignment components may be fixed in a suitable location within the device housing. Alternatively, any or all of the magnetic alignment components (including annular and / or rotary alignment components) may be movable in axial and / or lateral directions. Movable magnetic alignment components may allow magnets (e.g., axially) to move closer to each other to increase the magnetic force holding the device aligned, or to move away from each other to decrease the magnetic force holding the device aligned.

[0011] In some implementations, the magnetic alignment system may also include a near-field communication (NFC) coil and supporting circuitry to allow devices to identify each other using the NFC protocol. The NFC coil in a particular device may be a ring-shaped coil disposed inside or outside the ring-shaped alignment member. For example, in a device having a ring-shaped alignment member surrounding an inductive charging coil, the NFC coil may be disposed in the annular gap between the inductive charging coil and the ring-shaped alignment member. It should be understood that the NFC component is optional in providing magnetic alignment and may be used with either movable or fixed magnetic alignment members.

[0012] The following detailed description, together with the accompanying drawings, will provide a better understanding of the nature and advantages of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 A simplified representation of a wireless charging system incorporating a magnetic alignment system according to some embodiments is shown.

[0014] Figure 2A A perspective view of a magnetic alignment system according to some embodiments is shown, and Figure 2B It shows crossing Figure 2A The cross-section captured by the magnetic alignment system.

[0015] Figure 3A A perspective view of a magnetic alignment system according to some embodiments is shown, and Figure 3B It shows crossing Figure 3A The cross-section captured by the magnetic alignment system.

[0016] Figure 4 A simplified top view of a secondary alignment component according to some embodiments is shown.

[0017] Figure 5A A perspective view of a magnetic alignment system according to some embodiments is shown, and Figure 5B It shows crossing Figure 5A An axial cross-sectional view of a portion of the system.

[0018] Figures 5C to 5E An example of a bow-shaped magnet with radial magnetic orientation according to some embodiments is shown.

[0019] Figure 6A and Figure 6B A graph showing the force distribution curves of different magnetic alignment systems according to some implementation schemes is presented.

[0020] Figure 7 A simplified top view of a secondary alignment component according to some embodiments is shown.

[0021] Figure 8AA perspective view of a magnetic alignment system according to some embodiments is shown, and Figure 8B and Figure 8C It shows crossing Figure 8A Axial cross-sectional view taken from different parts of the system.

[0022] Figure 9A and Figure 9B A simplified top view of the secondary alignment component according to various embodiments is shown.

[0023] Figure 10 A simplified top view of a secondary alignment component according to some embodiments is shown.

[0024] Figure 11 An example of an annular alignment component with a gap is shown according to some embodiments.

[0025] Figure 12A and Figure 12B An exemplary portable electronic device incorporating a magnetic alignment component is shown according to some embodiments.

[0026] Figure 13 A simplified view of a wireless charger device incorporating magnetic alignment components, according to some embodiments, is shown.

[0027] Figure 14A A simplified perspective view of a system including a portable electronic device aligned with a wireless charging device, according to some embodiments, is shown. Figure 14B It shows Figure 14A A simplified partial cross-sectional view of the system.

[0028] Figure 15 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary wireless charging system that includes devices that can be aligned together via a magnetic alignment system, according to some embodiments.

[0029] Figure 16 Examples of portable electronic devices and accessories that combine a magnetic alignment system with an annular alignment component and a rotary alignment component according to some embodiments are shown.

[0030] Figure 17A and Figure 17B An example of rotational alignment according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0031] Figure 18A and Figure 18B Perspective and top views of a rotary alignment component with a "z-pole" configuration according to some embodiments are shown.

[0032] Figure 19A and Figure 19BPerspective and top views of a rotary alignment component with a "quadrupole" configuration according to some embodiments are shown.

[0033] Figure 20A and Figure 20B Perspective and top views of a rotating alignment component with a “ring design” configuration according to some embodiments are shown.

[0034] Figure 21A and Figure 21B Perspective and top views of a rotating alignment component with a "three-pole" configuration according to some embodiments are shown.

[0035] Figure 22 The graphs showing the torque variation with angular rotation for a magnetic alignment system with a rotating alignment component according to various embodiments are shown.

[0036] Figure 23 A portable electronic device with an alignment system according to some embodiments is shown, the alignment system having multiple rotating alignment components.

[0037] Figure 24 A simplified representation of a wireless charging system incorporating a magnetic alignment system according to some embodiments is shown.

[0038] Figure 25A A perspective view of a magnetic alignment system according to some embodiments is shown, and Figure 25B It shows crossing Figure 25A The cross-section captured by the magnetic alignment system.

[0039] Figure 26A A perspective view of a magnetic alignment system according to some embodiments is shown, and Figure 26B It shows crossing Figure 26A The cross-section captured by the magnetic alignment system.

[0040] Figure 27 A simplified rear view of an accessory device incorporating a magnetic alignment component, according to some embodiments, is shown.

[0041] Figure 28A A simplified perspective view of a system comprising a portable electronic device aligned with an accessory device and a wireless charging device, according to some embodiments, is shown. Figure 28B It shows Figure 28A A simplified partial cross-sectional view of the system.

[0042] Figure 29 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary wireless charging system that includes devices that can be aligned together via a magnetic alignment system, according to some embodiments.

[0043] Figures 30A to 30CA movable magnet according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0044] Figure 31A and Figure 31B A movable magnetic structure according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0045] Figure 32A and Figure 32B A movable magnetic structure according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0046] Figures 33 to 35 A movable magnetic structure according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0047] Figure 36 The normal force between a first magnet in a first electronic device and a second magnet in a second electronic device is shown.

[0048] Figure 37 The shear force between a first magnet in a first electronic device and a second magnet in a second electronic device is shown.

[0049] Figure 38A and Figure 38B A movable magnet combined with a high-friction surface is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 39A and Figure 39B A movable magnet combined with a high-friction surface is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 40A and Figure 40B A movable magnet combined with a high-friction surface is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 41A and Figure 41B Another movable magnet combined with a high-friction surface is shown according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0053] Figure 42 A cross-sectional side view of another movable magnet structure according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0054] Figure 43 yes Figure 42 A partial transparent view of the moving magnet structure.

[0055] Figure 44 yes Figure 42 Another cross-sectional side view of the electronic device.

[0056] Figure 45 and Figure 46 It shows the connection with the second electronic device. Figure 42 Electronic devices.

[0057] Figure 47A and Figure 47B A structure for constraining the movement of a magnet in an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0058] Figure 48A and Figure 48B A structure for constraining the movement of a magnet in an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0059] Figure 49A and Figure 49B A structure for constraining the movement of a magnet in an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0060] Figure 50 A simplified rear view of a portable electronic device according to some embodiments is shown.

[0061] Figure 51 An exploded view of a wireless charging and alignment assembly for a portable electronic device incorporating an NFC reader, according to some embodiments, is shown.

[0062] Figure 52 It shows the combination of Figure 51 The components Figure 50 A simplified cross-sectional view of a part of a portable electronic device.

[0063] Figure 53 An exploded view of a wireless charger device incorporating NFC tag circuitry according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0064] Figures 54A to 54B A partial cross-sectional view of a wireless charger device according to some embodiments is shown.

[0065] Figure 55 Examples of accessory devices combining auxiliary alignment components with NFC tag circuitry and coils according to some implementation schemes are shown.

[0066] Figure 56 A more detailed view of an NFC tag circuit assembly according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0067] Figure 57 An exploded view of an NFC tag circuit assembly according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0068] Figure 58 A partial cross-sectional view of the appendix according to some embodiments is shown.

[0069] Figure 59 An example of another accessory device according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0070] Figure 60 An enlarged view of an auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component and an NFC tag circuit assembly according to some embodiments is shown.

[0071] Figure 61 An exploded view of an NFC tag circuit assembly according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0072] Figure 62 A simplified partial cross-sectional view of a system including a wireless charger device, a portable electronic device, and an accessory device according to some embodiments is shown.

[0073] Figure 63 Examples of accessory devices with auxiliary alignment components, NFC tag circuitry, and coils according to some embodiments are shown.

[0074] Figure 64 A simplified partial cross-sectional view of a system including a wireless charger device, a portable electronic device, and an accessory device according to some embodiments is shown.

[0075] Figure 65 A flowchart illustrating a process that can be implemented in a portable electronic device according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0076] Figure 66 An exploded view of a wireless charger device according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0077] Figure 67 A simplified partial cross-sectional view of a wireless charger device according to some embodiments is shown.

[0078] Figure 68 An exploded view of a cable assembly that can be connected to a wireless charger device and has an integrated power circuit, according to some embodiments, is shown.

[0079] Figure 69A Examples of portable electronic devices with wireless power modules according to some implementation schemes are shown.

[0080] Figure 69B It shows Figure 69A A cross-sectional view of the wireless power module.

[0081] Figure 70 A more detailed top view of a wireless power module according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0082] Figures 71A to 71D A cross-sectional view of an NFC coil that can be used in a wireless power module according to various embodiments is shown.

[0083] Figure 72 A rear view of the housing according to some embodiments is shown.

[0084] Figure 73A A simplified axial view of the internal components of an annular alignment assembly for a housing, according to some embodiments, is shown.

[0085] Figure 73B It shows Figure 73A A cross-sectional view of the annular alignment component.

[0086] Figure 73C A more detailed view of an NFC tag circuit assembly according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0087] Figure 74 Exploded views of annular alignment components and rotary alignment components according to some embodiments are shown.

[0088] Figure 75 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the rear panel of a housing according to some embodiments is shown.

[0089] Figure 76A and 76B Top and bottom perspective views of a charger alignment module according to some embodiments are shown.

[0090] Figure 77 This is an exploded view of the charger alignment module according to some implementation schemes.

[0091] Figure 78 A top perspective view of a teardrop-shaped charger module according to some embodiments is shown.

[0092] Figure 79A It is a front view of the insert module according to some implementation schemes, and Figure 79B This is a top view of the attachment insertion module according to some implementation schemes.

[0093] Figure 80 An exploded view of the attachment insertion module according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0094] Figure 81 An exploded view of the attachment insertion module according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0095] Figure 82 and Figure 83 A partial cross-sectional view of the attachment insertion module according to various embodiments is shown.

[0096] Figure 84 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the ring-shaped accessory insertion module according to some implementation schemes. Detailed Implementation

[0097] This document describes various embodiments of magnetic alignment systems and their components. A magnetic alignment system may include annular alignment components, each of which may include a magnetic ring (or a single annular magnet) having a specific magnetic orientation or magnetic orientation pattern, such that a “primary” annular alignment component can attract and hold a complementary “secondary” annular alignment component. Magnetic alignment components can be incorporated into various devices, and a magnetic alignment component in one device can attract another device having complementary magnetic alignment components to a desired alignment and / or hold another device to a desired alignment. (Device aligned by a magnetic alignment system may be referred to as “attached” to each other.)

[0098] For the purposes of this specification, many different categories of devices may be distinguished. As used herein, "portable electronic device" generally refers to any portable, power-consuming electronic device that provides at least some interaction with a user. Examples of portable electronic devices include: smartphones and other mobile phones; tablet computers; laptop computers; wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches, headphones, earbuds); and any other electronic device that a user may carry or wear. Other portable electronic devices may include robotic devices, remote control devices, personal care appliances, etc.

[0099] "Accessory device" (or "accessory") generally refers to a device used in conjunction with a portable electronic device to enhance its functionality and / or aesthetics. Many categories of accessories can incorporate magnetic alignment. For example, one category of accessories includes wireless charger accessories. As used herein, a "wireless charger accessory" (or "wireless charger device" or simply "wireless charger") is an accessory that provides power to a portable electronic device using wireless power transfer technology. A "battery pack" (or "external battery") is a type of wireless charger accessory that includes a battery to store charge that can be transferred to the portable electronic device. In some embodiments, the battery pack may also wirelessly receive power from another wireless charger accessory. Referring to the ability of a wireless charger accessory to provide and / or receive power, a wireless charger accessory may also be referred to as an "active" accessory. Other accessories are "passive accessories" that do not provide or receive power. For example, some passive accessories are "housings" that cover one or more surfaces of a portable electronic device to provide protection (e.g., protection against damage from impacts between the portable electronic device and other objects), to enhance aesthetics (e.g., having decorative colors, etc.), and / or to enhance functionality (e.g., housings incorporating various types of storage pouches, batteries, card readers, or sensors). Housings can have various form factors. For example, a “tray” can refer to a housing with a rear panel that covers the rear and side surfaces of a portable electronic device to secure the device in the tray while exposing the front surface (which may include a display). A “sleeve” can refer to a housing with a front panel and a rear panel with an open end (or “throat”) into which the portable electronic device can be inserted, such that the front and rear surfaces of the device are covered; in some cases, the front panel of the sleeve may include a window through which part (or all) of the display of the portable electronic device is visible. A “split” can refer to a housing with a retaining portion and a cover that covers at least the rear surface of the portable electronic device (and sometimes one or more side surfaces), and that can be closed to cover the display or opened to expose the display. It should be understood that not all housings are passive accessories. For example, in addition to protective and / or aesthetic features, a “battery housing” may also include a battery pack; battery housings are typically shaped as trays, sleeves, or splits. Other examples of active housings may include housings that incorporate card readers, sensors, batteries, or other electronic components that enhance the functionality of portable electronic devices.

[0100] In this specification, a distinction is sometimes made between "charge-penetrating accessory" and "terminal accessory." A "charge-penetrating accessory" is an accessory that can be positioned between a portable electronic device and a wireless charger device without interfering with the wireless power transfer between the wireless charger device and the portable electronic device. A "terminal accessory" is an accessory that is not a charge-penetrating accessory. Wireless charging accessories are generally terminal accessories, but not all terminal accessories provide wireless charging for portable electronic devices. For example, some terminal accessories may be "mounting" accessories designed to hold a portable electronic device in a specific position. Examples of mountings include tripods, charging docks, other stands, or mounting brackets (these examples may or may not be adjustable) that hold a portable electronic device in a desired position and / or orientation. Such accessories may or may not include wireless charging capability.

[0101] According to embodiments described herein, portable electronic devices and accessory devices may include complementary magnetic alignment components that facilitate alignment and / or attachment of the accessory device to the portable electronic device. Magnetic alignment components may include toroidal magnetic alignment components, which in some embodiments may surround an inductive charging transmitter and receiver coil. (It will be apparent that toroidal magnetic alignment components may also be used in devices that do not have inductive charging coils.) In the nomenclature used herein, a “primary” toroidal magnetic alignment component refers to a toroidal magnetic alignment component used in a wireless charger device or other terminal accessory. A “secondary” toroidal magnetic alignment component refers to a toroidal magnetic alignment component used in a portable electronic device. An “auxiliary” toroidal magnetic alignment component refers to a toroidal magnetic alignment component used in a charge penetration accessory. (In this disclosure, adjectives such as “toroidal,” “magnetic,” “primary,” “secondary,” and “auxiliary” may be omitted when the context clarifies.) The primary and secondary toroidal alignment components have complementary magnetic orientations such that they attract each other and allow devices containing these components to be attached to a desired alignment. For example, the primary annular alignment member may have a "quadrupole" magnetic configuration, comprising: an inner annular region having magnetic polarity in a first axial direction, an outer annular region having magnetic polarity in a second axial direction opposite to the first direction, and a central unmagnetized region between the inner and outer annular regions. The secondary annular alignment member may have a radial magnetic configuration (e.g., where the north pole is precisely or approximately radially inward or radially outward oriented; examples are described below). When aligned, the primary and secondary annular alignment members may form a closed magnetic circuit such that the DC magnetic flux is primarily contained within the magnet. Alternatively, the secondary annular alignment member may also have a quadrupole magnetic configuration matching the quadrupole magnetic configuration of the primary annular alignment member. The auxiliary annular alignment member may operate as a "relay" and may have a quadrupole configuration matching the quadrupole configuration of the primary annular alignment member.

[0102] In some embodiments, the magnetic alignment system may further include a rotating magnetic alignment member that facilitates the alignment of two devices in a preferred rotational orientation. The rotating magnetic alignment member may include one or more magnets, for example, disposed outside a ring-shaped alignment member. The magnets of the rotating alignment member may have complementary orientations such that the rotating alignment members in the two devices can attract each other and attach the two devices containing these members in a desired rotational orientation. For example, the rotating alignment member may have a quadrupole configuration having: a first magnetized region having magnetic polarity in a first axial direction (e.g., extending along one side of a rectangular magnet), a second magnetized region having magnetic polarity in a second axial direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., extending along the opposite side of the rectangular magnet), and a central unmagnetized region. For example, the rotary alignment component may have a tripolar configuration comprising: a first magnetized region having magnetic polarity in a first axial direction (e.g., extending along one side of a rectangular magnet); a second magnetized region having magnetic polarity also in the first axial direction (e.g., extending along the opposite side of the rectangular magnet); a central magnetized region having magnetic polarity in a second axial direction opposite to the first direction; and a non-magnetized region between the central magnetized region and each of the first and second magnetized regions. Other magnetic configurations may be used instead. It should be understood that any device with a toroidal magnetic alignment component may or may not have a rotary magnetic alignment component, and the rotary alignment component may be classified, for example, depending on the type of device, as a primary alignment component, a secondary alignment component, or an auxiliary alignment component.

[0103] In some embodiments, the magnetic alignment components may be fixed in a suitable location within the device housing. Alternatively, any or all of the magnetic alignment components (including annular and / or rotary alignment components) may be movable in axial and / or lateral directions. Movable magnetic alignment components may allow magnets (e.g., axially) to move closer to each other to increase the magnetic force holding the device aligned, or to move away from each other to decrease the magnetic force holding the device aligned.

[0104] In some implementations, the magnetic alignment system may also include a near-field communication (NFC) coil and supporting circuitry to allow devices to identify each other using the NFC protocol. The NFC coil in a particular device may be a ring-shaped coil disposed inside or outside the ring-shaped alignment member. For example, in a device having a ring-shaped alignment member surrounding an inductive charging coil, the NFC coil may be disposed in the annular gap between the inductive charging coil and the ring-shaped alignment member. It should be understood that the NFC component is optional in providing magnetic alignment.

[0105] Therefore, while the following description focuses on specific examples of various combinations of components, it should be understood that any device may have a ring-shaped magnetic alignment component, which may be, for example, any of the primary, secondary, or auxiliary ring-shaped magnetic alignment components described herein. Furthermore, any device with a ring-shaped magnetic alignment component may also have a rotating magnetic alignment component, which may be, for example, any of the rotating magnetic alignment components described herein. Additionally, any device with a ring-shaped magnetic alignment component (whether or not it also has a rotating magnetic alignment component) may also have an NFC coil (and supporting reader circuitry and / or tag circuitry), which may be implemented, for example, according to any of the examples described herein.

[0106] 1. Primary ring magnetic alignment component and secondary ring magnetic alignment component

[0107] 1.1. Overview of Magnetic Alignment Systems

[0108] Figure 1 A simplified representation of a wireless charging system 100 incorporating a magnetic alignment system 106 according to some embodiments is shown. A portable electronic device 104 is positioned on the charging surface 108 of a wireless charger device 102. The portable electronic device 104 can be a consumer electronic device (such as a smartphone, tablet, wearable device, etc.) or any other electronic device desired to be wirelessly charged. The wireless charger device 102 can be any device configured to generate a time-varying magnetic flux to induce a current in a suitably configured receiving device. For example, the wireless charger device 102 can be a wireless charging pad, disk, charging stand, etc. The wireless charger device 102 may include or be connected to a power source, such as battery power or standard AC power.

[0109] To achieve wireless power transfer, portable electronic device 104 and wireless charger device 102 may each include induction coils 110 and 112, operable to transfer power between the portable electronic device and the wireless charger device. For example, induction coil 112 may be a transmitter coil generating a time-varying magnetic flux 114, and induction coil 110 may be a receiver coil inducing a current therein in response to the time-varying magnetic flux 114. The received current can be used to charge the battery of portable electronic device 104 to provide operating power to components of portable electronic device 104, and / or for other purposes as needed. (As used herein, "wireless power transfer" and "induced power transfer" generally refer to the process of generating a time-varying magnetic field in a conductive coil of a first device to induce a current in a conductive coil of a second device.)

[0110] To achieve efficient wireless power transmission, it is desirable to align induction coils 112 and 110. According to some embodiments, a magnetic alignment system 106 can provide this alignment. Figure 1 In the example shown, the magnetic alignment system 106 includes a primary magnetic alignment member 116 disposed within or on the surface of the wireless charger device 102 and a secondary magnetic alignment member 118 disposed within or on the surface of the portable electronic device 102. The primary alignment member 116 and the secondary alignment member 118 are configured to magnetically attract each other to an alignment position in which induction coils 110 and 112 are aligned with each other to provide efficient wireless power transmission.

[0111] According to the embodiments described herein, the magnetic alignment components (including primary or secondary alignment components) of a magnetic alignment system may be formed from bow-shaped magnets arranged in a ring configuration. In some embodiments, each magnet may have its magnetic polarity oriented in a desired direction such that the magnetic attraction between the primary and secondary magnetic alignment components provides the desired alignment. In some embodiments, the bow-shaped magnet may include a first magnetic region having a magnetic polarity oriented in a first direction and a second magnetic region having a magnetic polarity oriented in a second direction different from (e.g., opposite to) the first direction. As will be described, different configurations may provide different degrees of magnetic field leakage.

[0112] 1.2. Magnetic alignment system with uniaxial magnetic orientation

[0113] Figure 2A A perspective view of a magnetic alignment system 200 according to some embodiments is shown, and Figure 2B It shows a 200-span magnetic alignment system Figure 2A The cross-section cut by the indicated cutting plane. The magnetic alignment system 200 can be... Figure 1 A specific implementation of the magnetic alignment system 106 is described below. In the magnetic alignment system 200, all alignment components have magnetic polarity oriented in the same direction (along the axis of the ring configuration). For ease of description, the "axial" direction (also referred to as the "longitudinal" or "z" direction) is defined as parallel to the rotational symmetry axis 201 of the magnetic alignment system 200, and the transverse plane (also referred to as the "lateral" or "x" or "y" direction) is defined as perpendicular to axis 201. The terms "proximal side" or "proximal surface" are used herein to refer to a side or surface of an alignment component oriented toward another alignment component when the magnetic alignment system is aligned, and the terms "distal side" or "distal surface" are used to refer to a side or surface opposite to the proximal side or surface. (The terms "top" and "bottom" may be used with reference to the specific views shown in the accompanying drawings and have no other meaning.)

[0114] like Figure 2AAs shown, the magnetic alignment system 200 may include a primary alignment component 216 (which may be...) Figure 1 The primary alignment component 116 (specific implementation) and the secondary alignment component 218 (which may be) Figure 1 (Specific implementation of the secondary alignment member 118). The primary alignment member 216 and the secondary alignment member 218 have annular shapes and may also be referred to as "annular" alignment members. Specific dimensions can be selected as needed. In some embodiments, the primary alignment member 216 and the secondary alignment member 218 may each have an outer diameter of approximately 54 mm and a radial width of approximately 4 mm. The outer diameter and radial width of the primary alignment member 216 and the secondary alignment member 218 do not need to be exactly equal. For example, the radial width of the secondary alignment member 218 may be slightly smaller than the radial width of the primary alignment member 216, and / or the outer diameter of the secondary alignment member 218 may also be slightly smaller than the radial width of the primary alignment member 216, such that when aligned, the inner and outer sides of the primary alignment member 216 extend beyond the corresponding inner and outer sides of the secondary alignment member 218. The thickness (or axial dimension) of the primary alignment member 216 and the secondary alignment member 218 can also be selected as needed. In some implementations, the primary alignment member 216 has a thickness of about 1.5 mm, while the secondary alignment member 218 has a thickness of about 0.37 mm.

[0115] The primary alignment component 216 may include multiple sectors, each sector being formed by one or more primary bow-shaped magnets 226, and the secondary alignment component 218 may include multiple sectors, each sector being formed by one or more secondary bow-shaped magnets 228. In the example shown, the number of primary magnets 226 is equal to the number of secondary magnets 228, and each sector includes exactly one magnet, but this is not required. The primary magnets 226 and secondary magnets 228 may have a bow-shaped (or curved) shape in the transverse plane such that when the primary magnets 226 (or secondary magnets 228) are positioned end-to-end adjacent to each other, the primary magnets 226 (or secondary magnets 228) form a ring structure as shown. In some embodiments, the primary magnets 226 may contact each other at a junction 230, and the secondary magnets 228 may contact each other at a junction 232. Alternatively, a small gap or spacing can separate adjacent primary magnets 226 or secondary magnets 228, thus providing a greater degree of tolerance during manufacturing.

[0116] In some embodiments, the primary alignment member 216 may further include an annular shield 214 (also referred to as a DC magnetic shield or DC shield) disposed on the distal surface of the primary magnet 226. In some embodiments, the shield 214 may be formed as a single annular material piece and adhered to the primary magnet 226 to hold the primary magnet 226 in place. The shield 214 may be formed of a material with high magnetic permeability, such as stainless steel, and may redirect magnetic fields to prevent these magnetic fields from propagating beyond the distal side of the primary alignment member 216, thereby protecting sensitive electronic components located outside the distal side of the primary alignment member 216 from magnetic interference.

[0117] Primary magnet 226 and secondary magnet 228 (and all other magnets described herein) may be made of magnetic materials, such as NdFeB, other rare-earth magnetic materials, or other materials that can be magnetized to generate a continuous magnetic field. In some embodiments, the magnets may be plated with a thin layer (e.g., 7 μm to 13 μm) of NiCuNi or similar material. Each primary magnet 226 and each secondary magnet 228 may have an integral structure having a single magnetic region having magnetic polarities aligned in the axial direction, such as... Figure 2B The magnetic polarity indicators 215 and 217 are shown in the diagram. For example, each primary magnet 226 and each secondary magnet 228 may be a bar magnet that has been polished and shaped into an arcuate structure with an axial magnetic orientation. (It is obvious that the term "magnetic orientation" refers to the orientation direction of the magnetic polarity of the magnet or magnetized region.) In the example shown, the primary magnet 226 has a north pole oriented toward the near surface and a south pole oriented toward the far surface, while the secondary magnet 228 has a south pole oriented toward the near surface and a north pole oriented toward the far surface. In other embodiments, the magnetic orientation may be reversed, such that the south pole of the primary magnet 226 is oriented toward the near surface and the north pole is oriented toward the far surface, while the north pole of the secondary magnet 228 is oriented toward the near surface and the south pole is oriented toward the far surface.

[0118] like Figure 2B As shown, the axial magnetic orientation of the primary magnet 226 and the secondary magnet 228 can generate a magnetic field 240, which exerts an attractive force between the primary magnet 226 and the secondary magnet 228, thereby facilitating the alignment between corresponding electronic devices in which the primary alignment member 216 and the secondary alignment member 218 are disposed (e.g., as shown). Figure 1(As shown). Although shielding 214 can redirect some of the magnetic field in magnetic field 240 away from the area below primary magnet 226, magnetic field 240 can still propagate to areas laterally adjacent to primary magnet 226 and secondary magnet 228. In some embodiments, the lateral propagation of magnetic field 240 can cause magnetic field leakage to other magnetically sensitive components. For example, if an induction coil with ferromagnetic shielding is placed inside (or on the inside of) the annular primary alignment component 216 (or secondary alignment component 218), leakage of magnetic field 240 may saturate the ferromagnetic shielding, which may degrade wireless charging performance.

[0119] It should be understood that the magnetic alignment system 200 is exemplary, and variations and modifications thereof are possible. For example, while the primary alignment member 216 and the secondary alignment member 218 are each shown as consisting of eight arcuate magnets, other embodiments may use different numbers of magnets, such as 16 magnets, 36 magnets, or any other number of magnets, and the number of primary magnets need not be equal to the number of secondary magnets. In other embodiments, the primary alignment member 216 and / or the secondary alignment member 218 may each be formed from a single monolithic toroidal magnet; however, segmenting the magnetic alignment members 216 and 218 into arcuate magnets improves manufacturing because (for some types of magnetic materials) smaller arcuate segments may be less fragile than a single monolithic toroidal magnet and less prone to wear due to physical stresses applied to the magnetic material during manufacturing.

[0120] 1.3. Magnetic alignment system with closed-loop configuration

[0121] As referenced above Figure 2B As mentioned above, magnetic alignment systems with a single axial magnetic orientation can produce lateral leakage of the magnetic field, which can adversely affect the performance of other components of an electronic device. Therefore, some embodiments provide magnetic alignment systems with a "closed-loop" configuration that reduces magnetic field leakage. Examples will now be described.

[0122] Figure 3A A perspective view of a magnetic alignment system 300 according to some embodiments is shown, and Figure 3B It shows a 300-span magnetic alignment system Figure 3A The cross-section cut by the indicated cutting plane. The magnetic alignment system 300 can be... Figure 1 A specific implementation of the magnetic alignment system 106. In the magnetic alignment system 300, the alignment component has a magnetic component configured in a "closed-loop" configuration as described below.

[0123] like Figure 3A As shown, the magnetic alignment system 300 may include a primary alignment component 316 (which may be...) Figure 1The specific implementation of the primary alignment component 116) and the secondary alignment component 318 (which may be...) Figure 1 (Specific implementation of the secondary alignment member 118). The primary alignment member 316 and the secondary alignment member 318 have annular shapes and may also be referred to as "annular" alignment members. Specific dimensions can be selected as needed. In some embodiments, the primary alignment member 316 and the secondary alignment member 318 may each have an outer diameter of approximately 54 mm and a radial width of approximately 4 mm. The outer diameter and radial width of the primary alignment member 316 and the secondary alignment member 318 do not need to be exactly equal. For example, the radial width of the secondary alignment member 318 may be slightly smaller than the radial width of the primary alignment member 316, and / or the outer diameter of the secondary alignment member 318 may also be slightly smaller than the radial width of the primary alignment member 316, such that when aligned, the inner and outer sides of the primary alignment member 316 extend beyond the corresponding inner and outer sides of the secondary alignment member 318. The thickness (or axial dimension) of the primary alignment member 316 and the secondary alignment member 318 can also be selected as needed. In some implementations, the primary alignment member 316 has a thickness of approximately 1.5 mm, while the secondary alignment member 318 has a thickness of approximately 0.37 mm. (All values ​​herein are illustrative and may be changed as needed.)

[0124] The primary alignment component 316 may include multiple sectors, each sector being formed by multiple primary magnets 326, and the secondary alignment component 318 may include multiple sectors, each sector being formed by multiple secondary magnets 328. In the example shown, the number of primary magnets 326 is equal to the number of secondary magnets 328, and each sector includes exactly one magnet, but this is not required; for example, as described below, a sector may include multiple magnets. The primary magnets 326 and secondary magnets 328 may have an arcuate (or curved) shape in the transverse plane such that when the primary magnets 326 (or secondary magnets 328) are positioned end-to-end adjacent to each other, the primary magnets 326 (or secondary magnets 328) form a ring structure as shown. In some embodiments, the primary magnets 326 may contact each other at a junction 330, and the secondary magnets 328 may contact each other at a junction 332. Alternatively, a small gap or spacing can separate adjacent primary magnets 326 or secondary magnets 328, thus providing a greater degree of tolerance during manufacturing.

[0125] In some embodiments, the primary alignment member 316 may further include an annular shield 314 (also referred to as a DC magnetic shield or DC shield) disposed on the distal surface of the primary magnet 326. In some embodiments, the shield 314 may be formed as a single annular material piece and adhered to the primary magnet 326 to secure the primary magnet 326 in place. The shield 314 may be formed of a material having high permeability and / or high magnetic saturation value, such as stainless steel or low carbon steel, and may redirect magnetic fields to prevent these magnetic fields from propagating beyond the distal side of the primary alignment member 316, thereby protecting sensitive electronic components located outside the distal side of the primary alignment member 316 from magnetic interference.

[0126] The primary magnet 326 and the secondary magnet 328 may be made of magnetic materials (such as NdFeB, other rare-earth magnetic materials, or other materials that can be magnetized to generate a continuous magnetic field). Each secondary magnet 328 may have a single magnetic region, which has magnetic polarity (e.g., ...). Figure 3B As shown by magnetic polarity indicator 317 in the diagram, the magnetic polarity has a component in the radial direction in the transverse plane. As described below, the magnetic orientation may be in the radial direction relative to axis 301 or in another direction having a radial component in the transverse plane. Each primary magnet 326 may include two magnetic regions having opposite magnetic orientations. For example, each primary magnet 326 may include: having a magnetic orientation in a first axial direction (e.g., ...). Figure 3B The internal arc-shaped magnetic region 352 (shown by the polarity indicator 353 in the figure) has a magnetic orientation in a second axial direction opposite to the first direction (as shown in the figure). Figure 3B The magnet has an outer arcuate magnetic region 354 (shown by polarity indicator 355) and a central unmagnetized region 356 that does not have a magnetic orientation. By preventing the magnetic field from passing directly through the central region 356, the central unmagnetized region 356 magnetically separates the inner arcuate region 352 from the outer arcuate region 354. A magnet having regions separated by unmagnetized regions and having opposite magnetic orientations is sometimes referred to herein as having a "quadrupole" configuration.

[0127] In some embodiments, each secondary magnet 328 may be made of a magnetic material that has been polished and shaped into an arcuate structure, and a magnetizer may be used, for example, to generate a magnetic orientation having a radial component in the transverse plane. Similarly, each primary magnet 326 may be made of a single piece of magnetic material that has been polished and shaped into an arcuate structure, and a magnetizer may be applied to the arcuate structure to induce an axial magnetic orientation in one direction within the inner arcuate region of the structure, and an axial magnetic orientation in the opposite direction within the outer arcuate region of the structure, while demagnetizing the central region or preventing the generation of a magnetic orientation in the central region. In some alternative embodiments, each primary magnet 326 may be a composite structure having two arcuate magnetic material pieces providing an inner arcuate magnetic region 352 and an outer arcuate magnetic region 354; in such embodiments, the central unmagnetized region 356 may be formed of an arcuate nonmagnetic (or demagnetized) material piece, or formed as an air gap defined by the sidewalls of the inner arcuate magnetic region 352 and the outer arcuate magnetic region 354. The DC shield 314 may be formed of a material having high permeability and / or high magnetic saturation (such as stainless steel or low carbon steel) and may be plated with, for example, 5 μm to 10 μm of matte Ni. Alternatively, the DC shield 314 may be formed of a magnetic material having a radial magnetic orientation (in the opposite direction to the secondary magnet 328). In some embodiments, the DC shield 314 may be omitted entirely.

[0128] like Figure 3B As shown, the magnetic polarity of the secondary magnet 328 (indicated by indicator 317) can be oriented such that when the primary alignment member 316 and the secondary alignment member 318 are aligned, the south pole of the secondary magnet 328 is oriented towards the north pole of the inner arcuate magnetic region 352 (indicated by indicator 353), while the north pole of the secondary magnet 328 is oriented towards the south pole of the outer arcuate magnetic region 354 (indicated by indicator 355). Therefore, the corresponding magnetic orientations of the inner arcuate magnetic region 352, the secondary magnet 328, and the outer arcuate magnetic region 356 can generate a magnetic field 340 that exerts an attractive force between the primary magnet 326 and the secondary magnet 328, thereby facilitating alignment between corresponding electronic devices in which the primary alignment member 316 and the secondary alignment member 318 are disposed (e.g., as shown in Figure 1). Figure 1 (As shown). Shielding 314 can redirect some of the magnetic field in magnetic field 340 away from the region below the primary magnet 326. Furthermore, the "closed-loop" magnetic field 340 formed around the central unmagnetized region 356 can have tight and compact field lines that do not stray outside the primary magnet 326 and secondary magnet 328 until the magnetic field 240 is strayed. Figure 2BThe primary magnet 226 and secondary magnet 228 are located outside the magnetic alignment component 316. Therefore, with reduced concerns about stray magnetic fields, the magnetically sensitive component can be placed relatively close to the primary alignment component 316. Thus, compared to the magnetic alignment system 200, the magnetic alignment system 300 can help reduce the overall size of the device in which the primary alignment component 316 is located, and can also help reduce noise generated by the magnetic field 340 in adjacent components or devices (such as the induction receiver coil located inside the secondary alignment component 318).

[0129] Although each primary magnet 326 comprises two regions with opposite magnetic orientations, it should be understood that these two regions may, but do not need to, provide equal magnetic field strengths. For example, the outer arcuate magnetization region 354 may have a stronger polarization than the inner arcuate magnetization region 352. Depending on the specific implementation of the primary magnet 326, various techniques can be used to produce asymmetric polarization strengths. For example, the inner arcuate region 352 and the outer arcuate region 354 may have different radial widths; increasing the radial width of a magnetic region increases the field strength of that region due to the increased volume of the magnetic material. In the case where the inner arcuate region 352 and the outer arcuate region 354 are discrete magnets, magnets with different magnetic intensities can be used.

[0130] In some implementations, where the outer arcuate region 354 has a stronger polarization than the inner arcuate region 352, asymmetric polarization can produce a flux "sinking" effect toward the outer pole. This effect may be desirable in various situations. For example, when the primary magnet 326 is disposed within a wireless charger device and the wireless charger device is used to charge a "conventional" portable electronic device with an inductive receiver coil but without a secondary (or any) toroidal magnetic alignment element, (DC) magnetic flux from the primary toroidal alignment element can enter the ferrite shield surrounding the inductive receiver coil. The DC magnetic flux can cause the ferrite shield to saturate and degrade charging performance. Providing a primary toroidal alignment element with a stronger field at the outer arcuate region than at the inner arcuate region can help pull the DC magnetic flux away from the ferrite shield, which can improve charging performance when a wireless charger device with a toroidal magnetic alignment element is used to charge a portable electronic device lacking a toroidal magnetic alignment element.

[0131] It should be understood that the magnetic alignment system 300 is exemplary, and variations and modifications thereof are possible. For example, while the primary alignment member 316 and the secondary alignment member 318 are each shown as consisting of eight arcuate magnets, other embodiments may use different numbers of magnets, such as 16, 18, 32, 36, or any other number of magnets, and the number of primary magnets need not be equal to the number of secondary magnets. In other embodiments, the secondary alignment member 318 may be formed from a single monolithic toroidal magnet. Similarly, the primary alignment member 316 may be formed from a single monolithic toroidal magnetic material element having a suitable magnetization mode as described above, or the primary alignment member 316 may be formed from a monolithic inner toroidal magnet and a monolithic outer toroidal magnet, wherein an annular air gap or non-magnetic material region is disposed between the inner and outer toroidal magnets. In some implementations, the use of a configuration with multiple bow-shaped magnets improves manufacturing because smaller bow-shaped magnets are less prone to breakage and less susceptible to wear due to physical stresses applied to the magnetic material during manufacturing than a single monolithic toroidal magnet. It should also be understood that the magnetic orientation of the various magnetic alignment components or individual magnets does not need to be precisely aligned with the lateral and axial directions. The magnetic orientation can have any angle that provides a closed-loop path for the magnetic field passing through the primary and secondary alignment components.

[0132] 1.4. Magnetic Orientation of Closed-Loop Magnetic Alignment System

[0133] 1.4.1. Radial Symmetry Orientation

[0134] As described above, in embodiments of a magnetic alignment system with a closed-loop magnetic orientation (such as magnetic alignment system 300), the secondary alignment member 318 may have a magnetic orientation with a radial component. For example, in some embodiments, the secondary alignment member 318 may have a magnetic polarity in the radial orientation. Figure 4 A simplified top view of a secondary alignment member 418 according to some embodiments is shown. Similar to secondary alignment member 318, secondary alignment member 418 may be formed of bow-shaped magnets 428a to 428h having radial magnetic orientations as indicated by magnetic polarity indicators 417a to 417h. In this example, each bow-shaped magnet 428a to 428h has a north pole oriented radially outward and a south pole oriented radially inward; however, this orientation may be reversed, and the north pole of each bow-shaped magnet 428a to 428h may be oriented radially inward while the south pole is oriented radially outward.

[0135] Figure 5AA perspective view of a magnetic alignment system 500 according to some embodiments is shown. The magnetic alignment system 500 (which may be a specific implementation of the magnetic alignment system 300) includes a magnetic orientation having a radially outward magnetic orientation (e.g., as shown in the diagram). Figure 4 The magnetic alignment system 500 includes a secondary alignment component 518 and a complementary primary alignment component 516 (shown in the diagram). In this example, the magnetic alignment system 500 includes a gap 517 between two sectors in a sector; however, the gap 517 is optional, and the magnetic alignment system 500 can be a complete annular structure. A component 502 is also shown, which may include, for example, an induction coil assembly or other components located in the central region of the primary magnetic alignment component 516 or the secondary magnetic alignment component 518. The magnetic alignment system 500 may have a similar structure to the magnetic alignment system 300 (e.g., ...). Figure 3B The magnetic alignment system 500 has a closed-loop configuration (as shown) and may include bow-shaped sectors 501, each of which may be made of one or more bow-shaped magnets. In some embodiments, the closed-loop configuration of the magnetic alignment system 500 may reduce or prevent magnetic field leakage that could affect component 502.

[0136] Figure 5B An axial cross-sectional view taken through one of the arcuate sectors 501 is shown. Arcuate sector 501 includes a primary magnet 526 and a secondary magnet 528. As indicated by orientation indicator 517, the secondary magnet 528 has a magnetic polarity oriented radially outward, i.e., the north magnetic pole faces radially outward from the magnetic alignment system 500. Similar to the primary magnet 326 described above, the primary magnet 526 includes an inner arcuate magnetic region 552, an outer arcuate magnetic region 554, and a central unmagnetized region 556 (which may include, for example, an air gap or a region of nonmagnetic or unmagnetized material). The inner arcuate magnetic region 552 has an axially oriented magnetic polarity such that the north magnetic pole faces the secondary magnet 528 (as indicated by indicator 553), while the outer arcuate magnetic region 554 has the opposite magnetic orientation, with the south magnetic pole oriented towards the secondary magnet 528 (as indicated by indicator 555). (Refer to the above text.) Figure 3B The above, Figure 5B The arrangement of magnetic orientations results in a magnetic attraction between the primary magnet 526 and the secondary magnet 528. In some embodiments, the magnetic polarities may be reversed, such that the north pole of the secondary magnet 528 is oriented radially inward toward the magnetic alignment system 500, the north pole of the outer arcuate region 554 of the primary magnet 526 is oriented toward the secondary magnet 528, and the north pole of the inner arcuate region 552 is oriented away from the secondary magnet 528.

[0137] When the primary alignment member 516 and the secondary alignment member 518 are aligned, the radially symmetrical arrangement and equal orientation of the magnetic polarities of the primary alignment member 516 and the secondary alignment member 518 allow the secondary alignment member 518 to rotate freely in the lateral plane in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction (relative to the primary alignment member 516) while maintaining alignment along the axis.

[0138] As used in this article, the "radial" orientation does not need to be precise or entirely radial. For example, Figure 5C A secondary bow-shaped magnet 538 according to some embodiments is shown. The secondary bow-shaped magnet 538 has a completely radial magnetic orientation, as indicated by arrows 539. Each arrow 539 points to the center of curvature of the magnet 538; if the arrows 539 extend inward, they will converge at the center of curvature. However, achieving such completely radial magnetization requires the magnetic domains within the magnet 538 to be oriented at an angle relative to adjacent magnetic domains. For some types of magnetic materials, a completely radial magnetic orientation may be impractical. Therefore, some embodiments use an approximation of... Figure 5C The magnetic orientation of the "pseudo-radial" with a completely radial orientation. Figure 5D A secondary bow-shaped magnet 548 with a pseudo-radial magnetic orientation is shown according to some embodiments. The magnet 548 has a magnetic orientation perpendicular to a baseline 551 connecting the inner corners 552, 553 of the bow-shaped magnet 548, as indicated by arrow 549. If arrow 549 extends inward, convergence will not occur. Therefore, adjacent magnetic domains in the magnet 548 are parallel to each other, which can be easily achieved in magnetic materials such as NdFeB. However, the overall effect in the magnetic alignment system can be similar to... Figure 5C The effect of a completely radial magnetic orientation is shown. Figure 5E A secondary annular alignment member 558 comprising magnets 548 is shown according to some embodiments. Magnetic orientation arrows 549 extend to the center point 561 of the annular alignment member 558. As shown, the magnetic field direction can be approximately radial, with the approximation depending on the number of magnets 548 and the inner radius of the annular alignment member 558. In some embodiments, 18 magnets 548 can provide a pseudo-radial orientation; in other embodiments, more or fewer magnets may be used. It should be understood that all references herein to magnets having a “radial” magnetic orientation include pseudo-radial magnetic orientations and other magnetic orientations that are approximately, but not entirely, radial.

[0139] In some embodiments, the radial magnetic orientation in the secondary alignment member 518 (e.g., as...) Figure 5BAs shown, a magnetic force distribution is provided between the secondary alignment member 518 and the primary alignment member 516 (similarly around the entire circumference of the magnetic alignment system). The radial magnetic orientation also results in greater permeability, which allows the secondary alignment member 518 to resist demagnetization and enhances the attractive force in the axial direction and improves the shear force in the lateral direction when the two members are aligned.

[0140] Figure 6A and Figure 6B Plots showing the force distribution curves of different magnetic alignment systems according to some implementation schemes are presented. Specifically, Figure 6A A graph 600 shows the vertical attractive (normal) force in the axial (z) direction for different magnetic alignment systems with similar dimensions and using similar types of magnets. Graph 600 has a horizontal axis representing the displacement from the alignment center, where 0 represents the alignment position and negative and positive values ​​represent displacements (in arbitrary units) from the alignment position in opposite directions; and shows the normal force (F) varying with displacement in the lateral plane. 法向 The vertical axis (also in arbitrary units). For the purposes of this specification, F 法向 Defined as the magnetic force between the primary alignment component and the secondary alignment component in the axial direction; F 法向 >0 indicates attractiveness, while F 法向 <0 indicates a repulsive force. Figure 600 shows the normal force distribution curves for three different types of magnetic alignment systems. The first type of magnetic alignment system uses a "center" alignment component, such as a pair of complementary disk-shaped magnets placed along an axis; a representative normal force distribution curve for a center magnetic alignment system is shown as line 601 (dotted-dash line). The second type of magnetic alignment system (e.g., Figure 2A and Figure 2B The magnetic alignment system 200 uses a ring-shaped alignment component with an axial magnetic orientation; a representative normal force distribution curve for this ring-shaped axial magnetic alignment system is shown as line 603 (dashed line). A third type of magnetic alignment system (e.g., Figure 5A and Figure 5B The magnetic alignment system 500 uses an annular alignment component with closed-loop magnetic orientation and radial symmetry; the representative normal force distribution curve of the radially symmetrical closed-loop magnetic alignment system is shown as line 605 (solid line).

[0141] Similarly, Figure 6B Graph 620 shows the lateral (shear) forces in the transverse direction for different magnetic alignment systems. Using the same convention as graph 600, graph 620 has a horizontal axis representing the lateral displacement from the alignment center in the opposite direction, and shows the shear force (F) as a function of direction. 剪切 (where F is in arbitrary units) is the vertical axis. For the purposes of this specification, F剪切 Defined as the magnetic force between the primary alignment component and the secondary alignment component in the lateral direction; F 剪切 >0 indicates a force along the displacement axis toward the left, F 剪切 <0 indicates a force to the right along the displacement axis. Figure 620 shows the shear force distribution curves for three types of magnetic alignment systems, identical to those in Figure 600: the representative shear force distribution curve for the central magnetic alignment system is shown as line 621 (dotted-dash line); the representative shear force distribution curve for the annular axial magnetic alignment system is shown as line 623 (dashed line); and the representative normal force distribution curve for the radially symmetrical closed-loop magnetic alignment system is shown as line 625 (solid line).

[0142] like Figure 6A As shown, when the primary and secondary alignment components are in the aligned position (0 on the horizontal axis), each type of magnetic alignment system achieves the strongest magnetic attraction (i.e., normal force) in the axial direction, as indicated by the corresponding peaks 611, 613, and 615. While the strongest attractive normal force is achieved in the aligned position for all systems, the magnitude of the peak depends on the type of magnetic alignment system. Specifically, radially symmetrical closed-loop magnetic alignment systems (e.g., magnetic alignment system 500 of Figure 5) provide a stronger magnetic attraction when in the aligned position than other types of magnetic alignment systems. This strong attractive normal force can overcome minor misalignments and can help hold the device in the aligned position, thereby achieving more accurate and robust alignment between the primary and secondary alignment components. This, in turn, can provide more accurate and robust alignment between portable electronic devices and wireless charger devices that implement magnetic alignment systems therein.

[0143] like Figure 6BAs shown, the strongest shear forces are obtained when the primary and secondary alignment components are located exactly laterally outside the alignment position (e.g., separated from the alignment position by -2 and +2 units), as indicated by the corresponding peaks 631a to 631b, 633a to 633b, and 635a to 635b. These shear forces are used to push the alignment components toward the alignment position. Similar to the normal force, the peak intensity of the shear force depends on the type of magnetic alignment system. Specifically, radially symmetrical closed-loop magnetic alignment systems (e.g., magnetic alignment system 500 of Figure 5) provide a higher magnitude of shear force than other types of magnetic alignment systems when located exactly outside the alignment position. This strong shear force can provide tactile feedback (sometimes described as a “click” feeling) to help the user identify when the two components are aligned. Furthermore, similar to the normal force, the shear force can overcome minor misalignments caused by friction and enables more accurate and robust alignment between the primary and secondary alignment components, which in turn can provide more accurate and robust alignment between portable electronic devices and wireless charger devices that implement magnetic alignment systems therein.

[0144] Depending on the specific configuration of the magnet, various design options can be used to enhance the perceived "clamping" effect of a closed-loop magnetic alignment system. For example, reducing the amount of magnetic material in the device in the region near the magnetic alignment member (e.g., by using less material or by increasing the distance between the magnetic alignment member and another magnetic material) reduces stray fields and increases the perceived "clamping" effect of the magnetic alignment member. Similarly, increasing the magnetic field strength of the alignment magnet (e.g., by increasing the amount of material) increases both the shear force and the normal force. Furthermore, the width of the magnetized region (and / or the relative strength of the magnetic field in each region) in the primary ring alignment member can be based on the specific magnetic orientation pattern of the secondary ring alignment member (e.g., the secondary ring alignment member is characterized by having…). Figure 5C The perfectly radial magnetic orientation still has Figure 5D The pseudo-radial magnetic orientation can be optimized. Another consideration is the coefficient of friction between the surfaces of the device containing the primary and secondary alignment components; lower friction reduces resistance to the shear force exerted by the toroidal magnetic alignment components.

[0145] Radially symmetric closed-loop magnetic alignment system (e.g., Figure 5A and Figure 5B The magnetic alignment system 500 provides accurate and robust alignment in both the axial and lateral directions. Furthermore, due to radial symmetry, the alignment system does not have a preferred rotational orientation about the axis in the lateral plane; the shear force distribution can be identical regardless of the relative rotational orientation of the aligned electronic devices.

[0146] 1.4.2. Alternating radial orientation

[0147] In some implementations, the closed-loop magnetic alignment system can be designed to provide one or more preferred rotational orientations. Figure 7 A simplified top view of a secondary alignment member 718 according to some embodiments is shown. The secondary alignment member 718 includes sectors 728a to 728h having radial magnetic orientations as indicated by magnetic polarity indicators 717a to 717h. Each sector 728a to 728h may include one or more secondary bow magnets. In this example, the secondary magnets in sectors 728b, 728d, 728f, and 728h each have a north pole oriented radially outward and a south pole oriented radially inward, while the secondary magnets in sectors 728a, 728c, 728e, and 728g each have a north pole oriented radially inward and a south pole oriented radially outward. In other words, the magnets in adjacent sectors 728a to 728h of the secondary alignment member 718 have alternating magnetic orientations.

[0148] Complementary primary alignment components can have sectors with correspondingly alternating magnetic orientations. For example, Figure 8A A perspective view of a magnetic alignment system 800 according to some embodiments is shown. The magnetic alignment system 800 includes systems with alternating radial magnetic orientations (e.g., as shown in the diagram). Figure 7 The secondary alignment component 818 and the complementary primary alignment component 816 are shown. To reveal the internal structure, some of the arcuate portions of the magnetic alignment system 800 are not shown; however, it should be understood that the magnetic alignment system 800 can be a completely annular structure. A component 802 is also shown, which may include, for example, an induction coil assembly or other components located in the central region of the primary annular alignment component 816 and / or the secondary annular alignment component 818. The magnetic alignment system 800 can be a closed-loop magnetic alignment system similar to the magnetic alignment system 300 described above, and may include arcuate sectors 801b, 801c with alternating magnetic orientations, wherein each arcuate sector 801b, 801c includes one or more arcuate magnets in each of the primary annular alignment component 816 and the secondary annular alignment component 818. In some embodiments, the closed-loop configuration of the magnetic alignment system 800 may reduce or prevent magnetic field leakage that could affect component 802. Similar to the magnetic alignment system 500, the magnetic alignment system 800 may include a gap 803 between two sectors.

[0149] Figure 8B An axial cross-sectional view through one of the arcuate sectors 801b is shown, and Figure 8CAn axial cross-sectional view taken through one of the bow-shaped sectors 801b is shown. Bow-shaped sector 801b includes a primary magnet 826b and a secondary magnet 828b. As indicated by orientation indicator 817b, the secondary magnet 828b has a magnetic polarity oriented radially outward, i.e., the north magnetic pole faces radially outward from the magnetic alignment system 800. Similar to the primary magnet 326 described above, the primary magnet 826b includes an inner bow-shaped magnetic region 852b, an outer bow-shaped magnetic region 854b, and a central unmagnetized region 856b (which may include, for example, an air gap or a region of non-magnetic or unmagnetized material). The inner bow-shaped magnetic region 852b has an axially oriented magnetic polarity such that the north magnetic pole faces the secondary magnet 828b (as indicated by indicator 853b), while the outer bow-shaped magnetic region 854b has the opposite magnetic orientation, with the south magnetic pole oriented towards the secondary magnet 828b (as indicated by indicator 855b). As referenced above Figure 3B The above, Figure 8B The arrangement of the magnetic orientations shown results in a magnetic attraction between the primary magnet 826b and the secondary magnet 828b.

[0150] like Figure 8C As shown, the arc-shaped sector 801c has a magnetic orientation "opposite" to that of the arc-shaped sector 801b. The arc-shaped sector 801c includes a primary magnet 826c and a secondary magnet 828c. As indicated by orientation indicator 817c, the secondary magnet 828c has a magnetic polarity oriented in a radially inward direction, i.e., the north magnetic pole faces radially inward toward the magnetic alignment system 800. Similar to the primary magnet 326 described above, the primary magnet 826c includes an inner arc-shaped magnetic region 852c, an outer arc-shaped magnetic region 854c, and a central unmagnetized region 856c (which may include, for example, an air gap or a region of non-magnetic or unmagnetized material). The internal arc-shaped magnetic region 852c has an axially oriented magnetic polarity, such that the south magnetic pole faces the secondary magnet 828c (as indicated by indicator 853c), while the external arc-shaped magnetic region 854c has the opposite magnetic orientation, with the north magnetic pole facing the secondary magnet 828c (as indicated by indicator 855c). (See above for reference.) Figure 3B The above, Figure 8C The arrangement of the magnetic orientations shown results in a magnetic attraction between the primary magnet 826c and the secondary magnet 828c.

[0151] When the secondary alignment member 818 is aligned with the primary alignment member 816 and one of the alignment members 816 and 818 rotates relative to the other about a common axis, such as Figure 7 and Figures 8A to 8CThe alternating arrangement of magnetic polarities shown can create a "ratchet" feel. For example, when the secondary alignment member 816 rotates relative to the primary alignment member 816, each radially outward magnet 828b alternately approaches the complementary magnet 826b of the primary alignment member 816, generating an attractive magnetic force, or alternately approaches the anticomplementary magnet 826c of the primary alignment member 816, generating a repulsive magnetic force. If the primary magnets 826b, 826c and the secondary magnets 828b, 828c have the same angular magnitude and spacing in any given orientation, each pair of magnets will experience a similar net (attractive or repulsive) magnetic force, making the alignment stable and secure in the rotational orientation, where the complementary magnet pairs 826b, 828b and 826c, 828c are in close proximity. In other rotational orientations, a torque may be experienced toward the stable rotational orientation.

[0152] exist Figure 7 and Figures 8A to 8C In the example shown, each sector includes one magnet, and the direction of the magnetic orientation alternates between each magnet. In some embodiments, a sector may include two or more magnets having the same magnetic orientation. For example, Figure 9A A simplified top view of a secondary alignment member 918 according to some embodiments is shown. Similar to the secondary alignment member 818 described above, the secondary alignment member 918 includes secondary magnets 928b having a radially outward magnetic orientation and secondary magnets 928c having a radially inward orientation. In this example, the magnets are arranged such that a pair of outwardly oriented magnets 928b (forming a first sector 901) are adjacent to a pair of inwardly oriented magnets 928c (forming a second sector 903 adjacent to the first sector 901). The pattern of alternating sectors (with two magnets in each sector) repeats around the circumference of the secondary alignment member 918. Similarly, Figure 9B A simplified top view of another secondary alignment member 918' according to some embodiments is shown. The secondary alignment member 918' includes secondary magnets 928b having a radially outward magnetic orientation and secondary magnets 928c having a radially inward orientation. In this example, the magnets are arranged such that a set of four radially outward magnets 928b (forming a first sector 911) is adjacent to a set of four radially inward magnets 928c (forming a second sector 913 adjacent to the first sector 911). The pattern of alternating sectors (with four magnets in each sector) repeats around the circumference of the secondary alignment member 918'. Although not explicitly stated... Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown in the image, but according to... Figures 8A to 8C It should be obvious what the structure of the complementary primary alignment component is to the secondary alignment component 918 or 918'. Although the number of rotational orientations providing stable alignment will differ, Figure 9A and Figure 9BThe shear force distribution of the alignment component can be similar to the ratchet distribution described above.

[0153] 1.4.3. Other magnetic orientations

[0154] In other implementations, various force distributions can be generated by changing the magnetic orientation of different sectors within the primary alignment component and / or the secondary alignment component. This is merely one example. Figure 10 A simplified top view of a secondary alignment member 1018 according to some embodiments is shown. The secondary alignment member has sectors 1028a to 1028h having sector-dependent magnetic orientations as indicated by magnetic polarity indicators 1017a to 1017h. In this example, the secondary alignment member 1018 can be viewed as being bisected by a bisecting line 1001, which defines two halves of the secondary alignment member 1018. In the first half 1003, sectors 1028e to 1028h have radially outward oriented magnetic polarities, similar to the example described above.

[0155] In the second half 1005, sectors 1028a to 1028d have magnetic polarities that are substantially parallel to the bisecting line 1001 rather than radially oriented. Specifically, sectors 1028a and 1028b have magnetic polarities oriented in a first direction parallel to the bisecting line 1001, while sectors 1028c and 1028d have magnetic polarities oriented in a direction opposite to the direction of the magnetic polarities of sectors 1028a and 1028b. The complementary primary alignment member may have an inner annular region, an outer annular region, and a central unmagnetized region, thereby providing the closed-loop magnetic orientation as described above, wherein the inner annular region has a magnetic north pole oriented toward the secondary alignment member 1018, and the outer annular region has a magnetic north pole oriented away from the secondary alignment member 1018. The asymmetrical arrangement of the magnetic orientation in the secondary alignment member 1018 can modify the shear force distribution, such that the shear force resisting movement generated by the secondary alignment member 1018 in the direction toward the second half 1005 (upward in the figures) is smaller than that generated in the direction toward the first half 1003 (downward in the figures). In some embodiments, this asymmetrical arrangement can be used when the primary alignment member is mounted in the charging dock and the secondary alignment member is mounted in a portable electronic device that docks with the charging dock. Assuming that the secondary annular alignment member 1018 is oriented in the portable electronic device such that the semi-annular 1005 faces the top of the portable electronic device, the asymmetrical shear force can facilitate the following actions: sliding the portable electronic device downward to dock with the charging dock or sliding it upward to remove it from the charging dock, while still providing an attractive force to pull the portable electronic device to the desired alignment with the charging dock.

[0156] In the above embodiments, the secondary annular magnetic alignment member has a magnetic orientation that is substantially aligned in the transverse plane. In some alternative embodiments, the secondary annular magnetic alignment member may alternatively have a magnetic orientation similar to... Figure 3A and Figure 3B The primary toroidal magnetic alignment component 316 has a quadrupole configuration similar to that of the primary toroidal magnetic alignment component 316, and has or does not have a DC shield on the distal surface of the secondary bow magnet (if present, it can be similar to the secondary to the secondary toroidal magnetic alignment component 316). Figure 3A and 3B (DC shield 314). Using a quadrupole magnetic configuration in both the primary and secondary alignment components provides a closed-loop DC flux path and a strong "clamping" feel; however, it may be necessary to increase the thickness of the secondary magnetic alignment component to accommodate the quadrupole magnet and the DC shield, which increases the overall thickness of the portable electronic device housing the secondary magnetic alignment component. To reduce thickness, the DC shield on the distal surface of the secondary alignment component can be omitted; however, omitting the DC shield can lead to increased flux leakage into adjacent components.

[0157] It should be understood that the foregoing examples are illustrative and not limiting. If the primary and secondary alignment components of a given magnetic alignment system have complementary magnetic orientations that apply forces toward the desired alignment location, then the sectors of the primary and / or secondary alignment components may include magnetic elements having magnetic polarities oriented in any desired direction and in any combination. Different combinations of magnetic orientations can produce different shear force distributions, and the magnetic orientation can be selected based on the desired shear force distribution (e.g., strong engagement), the avoidance of DC flux leakage into other components, and other design considerations.

[0158] 1.5. Annular magnetic alignment component with gap

[0159] In the example above, the primary alignment component and the secondary alignment component have annular shapes. As described above (e.g., refer to...) Figure 3A The ring can be completely closed. In other implementations (e.g., such as...) Figure 5A and Figure 8A As shown in the figure, the primary annular alignment component or the secondary annular alignment component may include one or more gaps, wherein each gap may be a ring portion without magnetic material (or with virtually no material).

[0160] Figure 11An example of an alignment member 1118 with a gap (which may be a primary annular magnetic alignment member or a secondary annular magnetic alignment member) according to some embodiments is shown. As shown, the alignment member 1118 may include a plurality of bow-shaped magnets 1128 forming an annular shape. In this embodiment, a gap 1101 is created between two magnets by omitting one of the bow-shaped magnets 1128. More generally, various techniques can be used to create gaps such as gap 1101. For example, the angle opposite each bow-shaped magnet can be selected. Make The value is not an integer. Therefore, the size of gap 1101 may be equal to or less than (or greater than) the size of bow magnet 1128. In various embodiments of the magnetic alignment system, gaps such as gap 1101 may be formed in either or both of the secondary alignment member and the primary alignment member, and the size, number, and location of the gaps between the primary and secondary alignment members may differ. To provide reliable magnetic alignment, the size of gap 1101 or other gaps may be limited to, for example, 20° or less.

[0161] In some embodiments, gaps such as gap 1101 can provide a convenient path for electrical connection to components located in the internal region 1103 inside the alignment member 1118. For example, as described above, an induction coil (or other electronic component) may be disposed in the internal region 1103, and gap 1101 in the alignment member 1118 can provide a convenient path for electrical connection between the induction coil (or other component) and a battery (or other component) located outside the alignment member 1118. It should be understood that connection paths (entry or exit) can also be made by wiring above or below the magnet 1128. Figure 11 Electrical connections can be made using a path along the plane of the magnet; however, wiring connections above or below the magnet can result in an increase in the thickness of the device in which the alignment component 1118 is located.

[0162] It should be understood that gaps such as gap 1101 may be included in the primary alignment member, the secondary alignment member, or both. In some embodiments in which a gap is provided in both the primary and secondary alignment members, the presence of the gap can alter the shear force distribution in a manner that produces a preferred rotational orientation. The degree to which a preferred orientation is produced may depend on the size of the gap and the specific configuration of the magnet.

[0163] 1.6. Portable electronic devices incorporating magnetic alignment components

[0164] Figure 12A and Figure 12BA simplified rear view of a portable electronic device incorporating a magnetic alignment component according to some embodiments is shown. In the example shown, the portable electronic device incorporates a secondary magnetic alignment component with radial magnetic orientation, which allows for a thinner device profile; however, it should be understood that the portable electronic device may alternatively incorporate a primary magnetic alignment component.

[0165] Figure 12A A smartphone 1200 is shown as an example of a portable electronic device incorporating a magnetic alignment component according to some embodiments. The smartphone 1200 can support various computing and communication activities and can draw operating power from an onboard battery (not shown). In some embodiments, wireless power transmission can be used to recharge the battery. For example, the smartphone 1200 may include a coil assembly 1210 that can be configured as an inductive receiver coil for wireless power transmission. Such a time-varying magnetic field can be generated by a wireless charger device (…). Figure 12A The coil assembly 1210 is provided as a transmitter coil (not shown in the diagram). Alternatively or concurrently, the coil assembly 1210 may be capable of operating as an inductive transmitter coil for wireless power transmission and may be capable of operating to generate a time-varying magnetic field that can be used to charge accessory devices such as wireless headsets, external batteries, or another portable electronic device (e.g., another smartphone). The coil assembly 1210 may include an inductive receiver coil (e.g., a coil wound with conductive wire) coupled to a power storage device (e.g., a battery) or a power-consuming device. In some embodiments, the coil assembly 1210 may also include an electromagnetic shield (e.g., one or more sheets of ferrite) disposed above the distal surface, inner annular surface, and / or outer annular surface of the coil.

[0166] To achieve optimal wireless charging performance, it is desirable to align coil 1210 with a coil in the transmitting (or receiving) device. The annular magnetic alignment member 1218 can be a specific implementation of any of the secondary magnetic alignment members described above, and may include an annular arrangement of magnets 1228 having a junction 1232, which can be an air gap or surfaces where adjacent magnets contact each other. Figure 4 The radial orientation is described. In the example shown, the magnetic alignment member 1218 includes a gap 1201 that provides an electrical connection path for wire (or conductive trace) connection between the coil 1210 and the component outside the magnetic alignment member 1218.

[0167] Coil 1210 may be optimized to support wireless power transfer between devices. In some embodiments, it may also be desirable to support wireless data transfer between devices, for example, to allow different devices incorporating magnetic alignment systems to identify themselves. Therefore, in some embodiments, a near-field communication (NFC) coil 1260 may be disposed in the area between coil 1210 and magnet 1228. NFC reader circuitry and / or other components (not shown) may be connected to terminals 1262a, 1226b of NFC coil 1260 via gap 1201. Exemplary embodiments of NFC coil 1210 will be described in section 5 below.

[0168] In some implementations, the magnetic alignment component, such as component 1218, can be modified to accommodate portable electronic devices of different sizes while maintaining a constant outer diameter and radial width of the ring. For example, Figure 12B A smartphone 1200' is shown as another example of a portable electronic device that can be combined with a magnetic alignment component according to some embodiments. Figure 12A Similar to smartphone 1200, smartphone 1200' can support a variety of computing and communication activities and can draw operating power from an onboard battery (not shown). One difference between smartphone 1200 and smartphone 1200' may be that smartphone 1200' has a smaller form factor than smartphone 1200. For example, smartphone 1200' may be narrower (in the x-direction) and / or shorter (in the y-direction) than smartphone 1200. However, it may be desirable for these smartphones with different form factors to interoperate with the same wireless charging device and / or other accessories. Therefore, smartphone 1200' may include the same wireless charging coil 1210' as the wireless charging coil 1210 of smartphone 1200.

[0169] To provide alignment of coil 1210' with a coil in another device, smartphone 1200' may include a magnetic alignment member 1218'. Magnetic alignment member 1218' may be a specific implementation of any of the secondary magnetic alignment members described above, and may include an annular arrangement of bow-shaped magnets 1228' having a junction 1232', which may be an air gap or surfaces where adjacent magnets 1228' contact each other. The magnetic polarity of magnets 1228' may be oriented in different directions in a lateral plane, for example, in the radial direction as described above. Furthermore, NFC coil 1260' may be disposed in the region between coil 1210' and magnets 1228', similar to... Figure 12A NFC coil 1260.

[0170] In the example shown, to accommodate the narrower width of smartphone 1200', magnetic alignment member 1218' includes diameter-opposite gaps 1201a, 1201b. In addition to reducing the width of magnetic alignment member 1218' (in the x-direction), gaps 1201a and / or 1201b also provide electrical connection paths for wire (or conductive trace) connections between components outside coil 1210' and magnetic alignment member 1218'. In some embodiments, the arcuate magnet portion 1228' adjacent to gaps 1201a, 1201b may have angled bends 1229a to 1229b and 1231a to 1231b, which can further reduce the width of alignment member 1218' without reducing its outer diameter.

[0171] It should be understood that the smartphones 1200 and 1200' are merely examples, and a wide variety of portable electronic devices with varying form factors can accommodate annular alignment components with a given diameter and width. Furthermore, although... Figure 12A and Figure 12B Alignment components 1218, 1218' and coils 1210, 1210' on the rear of smartphones 1200, 1200' are shown, but it should be understood that these components may be located within the rear housing of smartphones 1200, 1200', and the rear housing may be opaque, so that the alignment components 1218, 1218' and coils 1210, 1210' need not be visible to the user.

[0172] 1.7. Wireless charging device incorporating magnetic alignment components

[0173] Figure 13 A simplified view of a wireless charger device 1300 incorporating a magnetic alignment component according to some embodiments is shown. In the example shown, the wireless charger device incorporates a primary alignment component; however, it should be understood that the wireless charger device may alternatively incorporate a secondary magnetic alignment component.

[0174] The wireless charger device 1300 can support charging portable electronic devices (such as...) Figure 12A Smartphone 1200 or Figure 12B The wireless charger device 1300 uses inductive power transfer to charge the smartphone 1200'. In this example, the wireless charger device 1300 has a housing 1302 surrounding the transmitter coil assembly 1312. Although Figure 13Not shown, but it should be understood that the transmitter coil assembly 1312 may include an inductive transmitter coil having wires that can be connected (e.g., via cable 1304) to an external power source. In some embodiments, the transmitter coil assembly 1312 may also include electromagnetic shielding (e.g., one or more pieces of ferrite placed above the distal surface, inner annular surface, and / or outer annular surface of the transmitter coil, and / or a thin layer of metal placed above the proximal surface of the transmitter coil) to reduce parasitic electric fields. Control circuitry for controlling the transmitter coil may be located within the housing 1302 or elsewhere as needed. A primary magnetic alignment member 1316 is disposed around the transmitter coil assembly 1312.

[0175] Components of the wireless charger device 1300 may be enclosed in a housing 1302, which may be made of aluminum, plastic, ceramic, or other durable materials. The housing 1302 is shown as a disc shape; however, other shapes may be used. For example, the housing 1302 may be rectangular, elliptical, or any other shape providing a charging surface. In some embodiments, the housing 1302 may be a two-piece housing comprising a shell for the distal and side surfaces of the wireless charger device 1300 and a top cover covering the proximal surface of the transmitter coil assembly 1312. Figure 13 (Not shown) The top cover (not shown) can be made of ceramic or other materials that can transmit electromagnetic fields, while the housing can be made of aluminum, plastic, or other materials. A suitable adhesive can be used to seal the top cover and housing together. Although Figure 13 A view of the interior of the wireless charger device 1300 is shown, but it should be understood that the housing 1302 may be opaque. The housing 1302 may include openings to allow cable 1304 to be connected to transmitter coil assembly 1312. In some embodiments, one end of cable 1304 is controlled to be coupled to electronic components of transmitter coil assembly 1312, while the other end of cable 1304 (not shown) is coupled to a plug connector (e.g., a USB Type-A connector or a USB-C connector) that can be used to draw power from the mains or other power source via an adapter.

[0176] To achieve optimal wireless charging performance, it is desirable to align the transmitter coil of coil assembly 1312 with a corresponding coil in a receiving device such as smartphone 1200. Magnetic alignment member 1316 may be an implementation of any of the primary magnetic alignment members described above, and may include an annular arrangement of magnets 1326 having a junction 1330 between adjacent magnets 1326, which may be an air gap or surfaces of adjacent magnets 1326 contacting each other. Magnets 1326 may be provided in a closed-loop configuration as described above; for example, each magnet 1326 may include: an inner arcuate region having an axial magnetic orientation in a first direction, an outer arcuate region having an axial magnetic orientation in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a central arcuate region without a distinct magnetic orientation. In the example shown, magnetic alignment member 1316 includes a gap 1301 that provides an electrical connection path for wire (or conductive trace) connection between coil assembly 1312 and cable 1304 without increasing the axial thickness of wireless charger device 1300.

[0177] Coil assembly 1312 may be optimized to support wireless power transfer between devices. In some embodiments, it may also be desirable to support wireless data transfer between devices, for example, to allow different devices incorporating a magnetic alignment system to identify themselves. Therefore, in some embodiments, a near-field communication (NFC) coil 1364 may be disposed in the area between coil assembly 1312 and magnetic alignment component 1316. In some embodiments, NFC coil 1364 may be coupled to a passive NFC tag, which may be appropriately configured (e.g., in...) Figure 12A The NFC reader in the smartphone 1200 reads the data. An exemplary implementation of the NFC coil 1364 will be described in section 5 below.

[0178] In various embodiments, the primary magnetic alignment member 1316 can be used to facilitate alignment between the wireless charger device 1300 and various portable electronic devices (e.g., including portable electronic device 1200 and portable electronic device 1200') with different form factors. Regardless of any other size of either device, as long as the portable electronic device aligned with the primary magnetic alignment member 1316 includes a complementary secondary alignment member having an annular shape that matches the primary alignment member 1316 and a magnetic field orientation that complements the primary alignment member 1316, the primary alignment member 1316 can facilitate alignment between the wireless charger device 1300 and the portable electronic device. It should also be understood that some embodiments of the wireless charger device 1300 can be used to charge portable electronic devices that do not have a magnetic alignment member; however, in such cases, the primary alignment member 1316 may not facilitate optimal alignment with the portable electronic device, and the user will need to use other techniques (e.g., manual adjustment based on charging performance or placing the device in a holder to align its corresponding charging coil) to align the device.

[0179] 1.8. Wireless charging system with magnetic alignment

[0180] Figure 14A The following are shown according to some implementation schemes, including ( Figure 13 The wireless charger device 1300 is aligned with ( Figure 12A A simplified perspective view of the system 1400 for the portable electronic device 1200. Figure 14A In the figure, portions of the wireless charger device 1300 are shown using dashed lines to avoid obscuring other details. As shown, the wireless charger device 1300 can be positioned such that its charging (or proximal) surface abuts against the rear (or proximal) surface 1403 of the portable electronic device 1200. When the device is placed in this arrangement, a secondary alignment member 1218 in the portable electronic device 1200 can attract and hold the primary magnetic alignment member 1316 of the wireless charger device 1300 in alignment, such that the transmitter coil assembly 1312 of the wireless charger device 1300 is aligned with the coil assembly 1210 of the portable electronic device 1200. As shown, the wireless charger device 1300 can have any rotational orientation about an axis defined by the centers of the primary magnetic alignment member 1316 and the secondary magnetic alignment member 1218; for example, the gap 1201 in the secondary magnetic alignment member 1218 does not need to be aligned with the gap 1301 in the primary magnetic alignment member 1316.

[0181] Figure 14BA simplified partial cross-sectional view of a system 1400 according to some embodiments is shown. The portable electronic device 1200 has a rear housing 1402 (which may be made of a material such as glass or plastic capable of transmitting electromagnetic and DC magnetic fields) and a front housing 1404 (which may include a touchscreen display). A coil assembly 1210 may include an inductive receiver coil 1410 (which may be made of, for example, stranded wire wound into a coil) and a shield 1412 (which may include, for example, a ferromagnetic shield). A secondary magnet 1428 forms part of a secondary magnetic alignment member 1218 and may have a magnetic field oriented in a radially inward direction (as indicated by the arrow). It should be understood that, although... Figure 14A Alignment component 1218 is shown, but the rear housing 1402 may be opaque, and alignment component 1218 does not need to be visible to the user.

[0182] The wireless charger device 1300 has a housing 1302, which includes a one-piece shell 1406 forming the distal and side surfaces of the housing 1302 and a top cover 1408 forming the proximal surface of the housing 1302. As described above, the shell 1406 and the top cover 1408 may be made of the same or different materials, and the top cover 1408 may be made of a material that can transmit AC electromagnetic fields and DC magnetic fields. The transmitter coil assembly 1312 may include an inductive transmitter coil 1416 (which may be made of, for example, stranded wire wound into a coil) and an electromagnetic shield 1415 (which may include, for example, a ferromagnetic shield). The primary magnet 1426 forms part of the primary magnetic alignment member 1316 and may include: an inner arcuate region 1452 having a magnetic field oriented in a first axial direction, an outer arcuate region 1454 having a magnetic field oriented in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction, and a non-magnetized central arcuate region 1456. As described above, the DC shield 1414 may be disposed on the distal surface of the primary magnet 1426. It should be understood that, although... Figure 14A Alignment component 1316 is shown, but housing 1302 may be opaque, and alignment component 1316 does not need to be visible to the user.

[0183] When aligned, the primary magnet 1426 and the secondary magnet 1428 generate a closed-loop magnetic flux, as shown in line 1440. The magnetic flux 1440 attracts the primary annular alignment member 1318 and the secondary annular alignment member 1216 into alignment, such that their respective centers are aligned along a common axis. Since the transmitter coil 1416 is fixed concentrically with the primary alignment member 1316, and the receiver coil 1410 is fixed concentrically with the secondary alignment member 1218, aligning the primary annular alignment member 1318 and the secondary annular alignment member 1216 along the common axis results in the transmitter coil 1416 and the receiver coil 1410 also being aligned along the common axis, thus enabling efficient wireless power transmission. For example, the transmitter coil 1416 can be driven with alternating current to generate a time-varying magnetic field, which induces a time-varying current in the receiver coil 1416. Electromagnetic shielding (e.g., shielding 1415 and 1412) can confine the AC field to the immediate vicinity of coils 1416 and 1410.

[0184] Specifically, some embodiments provide a gap region 1411 between the secondary magnet 1428 and the receiver coil assembly 1210, which experiences low DC magnetic flux and also low AC electromagnetic field due to the electromagnetic shielding 1412 surrounding the coil 1410. Similarly, some embodiments provide a gap region 1413 between the primary magnet 1426 and the transmitter coil assembly 1312, which experiences low DC magnetic flux and also low AC electromagnetic field due to the electromagnetic shielding 1418 surrounding the transmitter coil 1416. In some embodiments, an NFC antenna coil (not shown) may be placed in the gap regions 1411 and / or 1413, for example, to support the identification of the portable electronic device 1200 with the wireless charger device 1300. An exemplary embodiment of the NFC coil 1260 will be described in section 5 below. It should be noted that a similar gap region can be produced when using a z-pole magnetic alignment system of the type shown in FIG2; however, a larger space will be required between the charging coil and the magnet.

[0185] For reference Figure 14BUnderstood, each secondary alignment magnet 1428 in the secondary alignment member 1218 may have a thin axial dimension such that the secondary alignment member 1218 does not increase the thickness of the portable electronic device 1200. For example, the axial thickness of each secondary alignment magnet 1428 may be less than or equal to the thickness of the receiver coil assembly 1210 (including the coil 1410 and the shield 1412). The primary alignment member 1426 may have a thicker axial dimension, which, for example, occupies all the axial space between the housing 1406 and the top cover 1408. In some embodiments, the primary alignment member 1426 may also have a radial width slightly larger than the radial width of the secondary alignment member 1428.

[0186] Figure 15 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary wireless charging system 1500 according to some embodiments. The exemplary wireless charging system includes a portable electronic device 1504 (which may be, for example, portable electronic device 1200 or any other portable electronic device described herein) and a wireless charger device 1502 (which may be, for example, wireless charger device 1300 or any other wireless charger device described herein) aligned together by a magnetic alignment system 1506. The magnetic alignment system 1506 may include a primary alignment member 1516 within the wireless charger device 1502 and a secondary alignment member 1518 within the portable electronic device 1504. The primary alignment member 1516 and the secondary alignment member 1516 may be constructed according to any of the embodiments described herein. The portable electronic device 1504 may also include a computing system 1541 coupled to a memory bank 1542. The computing system 1541 may include control circuitry configured to execute instructions stored in the memory bank 1542 to perform various functions for operating the portable electronic device 1504. The control circuit may include one or more programmable integrated logic circuits, such as a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), etc.

[0187] The computing system 1541 may also be coupled to the user interface system 1543, the communication system 1544, and the sensor system 1545 to enable the portable electronic device 1504 to perform one or more functions. For example, the user interface system 1543 may include a display, a speaker, a microphone, an actuator for enabling haptic feedback, and one or more input devices, such as buttons, switches, capacitive screens for making the display touch-sensitive, etc. The communication system 1544 may include wireless communication components, NFC components, Bluetooth components, and / or Wi-Fi components to enable the portable electronic device 1504 to make phone calls, interact with wireless accessories, and access the Internet. In some embodiments, the communication system 1544 may include NFC reader circuitry used in conjunction with a magnetic alignment system 1506 to identify aligned devices; examples will be described in Section 5 below. The sensor system 1545 may include light sensors, accelerometers, gyroscopes, temperature sensors, magnetometers, and any other type of sensor capable of measuring parameters of external entities and / or the environment.

[0188] All these electronic components require a power source to operate. Therefore, the portable electronic device 1504 also includes a battery 1546 that can release stored energy to power the electronic components of the portable electronic device 1504. To replenish the energy released to power the electronic components, the portable electronic device 1504 includes a charging circuit 1547 and an induction coil 1510 that can receive power from a wireless charger device 1502 coupled to an external power source 1522.

[0189] The wireless charger device 1502 may include a transmitter coil 1512 for generating a time-varying magnetic flux capable of inducing a current in a coil 1510 of a portable electronic device 1504. The induced current can be used by a charging circuit 1547 to charge a battery 1546. The wireless charger device 1502 may also include a computing system 1521 coupled to a communication system 1522 and a wireless charging circuit 1523. The wireless charging circuit may include circuit components for converting standard AC power (e.g., standard AC wall power) having a first set of voltage and frequency characteristics into AC power suitable for operating the coil 1510. Suitable circuit components, including rectifiers (AC to DC converters), boost circuits (DC to DC boost circuits), inverters (DC to AC converters), etc., are known in the art. The computing system 1521 may include logic circuitry (such as a microprocessor, microcontroller, FPGA, etc.) configured to control the operation of the wireless charging device 1502, such as controlling the wireless charging circuitry 1523 to use power received from an external power source 1522 to generate a time-varying magnetic flux, thereby inducing a current in the coil 1510 to charge the portable electronic device 1504. In some embodiments, the computing system 1521 may implement functionality compliant with the Qi wireless charging standard (published by the Radio Power Union).

[0190] In some embodiments, the components implementing the computing system 1521 and the wireless charging circuit 1523 may be housed within the housing of the retaining coil 1512 and the primary alignment member 1516 (e.g., in...). Figure 13 and Figures 14A to 14B (within the disc-shaped housing 1302). In other embodiments, some or all of the components implementing the computing system 1521 and the wireless charging circuit 1523 may be located elsewhere, for example, in a... Figure 13 and Figure 14A The cable 1304 is located at its distal end. For example, the logic circuitry implementing the computing system 1521 may be housed within the housing 1302, while the wireless charging circuit 1532 may be housed within a protective cover of the plug connector at the distal end of the cable 1304. (In this case, the cable 1304 can provide AC power to the wireless charger device 1300.) Alternatively, the logic circuitry implementing the computing system 1521 and a portion of the circuitry implementing the wireless charging circuit 1523 may be housed within the housing 1302, while the circuitry implementing other portions of the wireless charging circuit 1523 may be housed within a protective cover of the plug connector at the distal end of the cable 1304. For example, an inverter may be housed within the housing 1302, while a rectifier and boost circuitry may be housed within a protective cover. (In this case, the cable 1304 can provide DC power to the wireless charger device 1300.)

[0191] While system 1500 is described with reference to specific blocks, it should be understood that these blocks are defined for descriptive convenience and are not intended to imply a specific physical arrangement of component parts. The individual blocks do not necessarily correspond to physically different components, and the same physical components can be used to implement various aspects of multiple blocks. Blocks can be configured to perform various operations, for example, by programming a processor or providing appropriate control circuitry, and depending on how the initial configuration is obtained, the individual blocks may be reconfigurable or non-reconfigurable. Embodiments of the invention can be implemented in various devices, including electronic devices that use any combination of circuitry and software to implement wireless charging operations and / or other operations requiring physical alignment between devices.

[0192] 2. Rotate the alignment component

[0193] In the various embodiments described above, the magnetic alignment system can provide robust alignment in the lateral plane and may or may not provide rotational alignment. For example, Figures 5A to 5B The radially symmetrical magnetic alignment system 500 may not be limited to a preferred rotational orientation. Figures 8A to 8C A radially alternating magnetic alignment system 800 can define multiple equally preferred rotational orientations. For some applications, such as the alignment of portable electronic devices with a wireless charger disc or pad, rotational orientation may not be an issue. In other applications, such as the alignment of portable electronic devices in a charging dock or other mounting accessory, a specific rotational alignment may be desired. Therefore, in some embodiments, the annular magnetic alignment member can be enhanced using one or more rotational alignment members positioned outside and spaced apart from the annular magnetic alignment member. The rotational alignment members can help guide the device into a targeted rotational orientation relative to each other.

[0194] Figure 16 An example of a magnetic alignment system having an annular alignment component and a rotary alignment component according to some embodiments is shown. Figure 16The corresponding proximal surfaces of portable electronic device 1604 and accessory 1602 are shown. In this example, a primary alignment component of the magnetic alignment system is included in accessory device 1602, and a secondary alignment component of the magnetic alignment system is included in portable electronic device 1604. Portable electronic device 1604 may be, for example, a smartphone, whose front surface provides a touchscreen display and whose rear surface is designed to support wireless charging. Accessory device 1602 may be, for example, a charging dock that supports portable electronic device 1604 such that its display is visible to a user and the user can access its display. For example, accessory device 1602 may support portable electronic device 1604 such that the display is vertical or at a tilt angle that facilitates viewing and / or touching. In the example shown, accessory device 1602 supports portable electronic device 1604 in a “longitudinal” orientation (the shorter side of the display is located at the top and bottom); however, in some embodiments, accessory device 1602 may support portable electronic device 1604 in a “lateral” orientation (the longer side of the display is located at the top and bottom). Accessory device 1602 can also be mounted on a rotatable mount, universal bracket, etc., so that users can adjust the orientation of portable electronic device 1604 by adjusting the orientation of accessory device 1602.

[0195] As described above, the components of the magnetic alignment system may include a primary annular alignment member 1616 disposed in attachment 1602 and a secondary annular alignment member 1618 disposed in the portable electronic device 1604. The primary annular alignment member 1616 may be similar to or identical to any of the primary alignment members described above. For example, the primary annular alignment member 1616 may be formed from an arcuate magnet 1626 arranged in a ring configuration. Although Figure 16 While not shown, one or more gaps may be provided in the primary annular alignment member 1616, for example, by omitting one or more of the bow magnets 1626 or by providing gaps at one or more joints 1630 between adjacent bow magnets 1626. In some embodiments, each bow magnet 1626 may include: an inner bow region having a first magnetic orientation (e.g., axially oriented in a first direction), an outer bow region having a second magnetic orientation opposite to the first magnetic orientation (e.g., axially oriented in a direction opposite to the first direction), and a central unmagnetized bow region between the inner and outer regions (as described above, the unmagnetized central region may include an air gap or a nonmagnetic material). In some embodiments, the primary annular alignment member 1616 may also include a DC shield (not shown) on the distal side of the bow magnet 1626.

[0196] Similarly, the secondary annular alignment member 1618 may be similar to or the same as any of the primary alignment members described above. For example, the secondary annular alignment member 1618 may be formed by an arcuate magnet 1628 arranged in an annular configuration. Although Figure 16 Although not shown, one or more gaps may be provided in the secondary annular alignment member 1618, for example, by omitting one or more bow-shaped magnets 1628 or by providing gaps at one or more joints 1632 between adjacent magnets 1628. As described above, the bow-shaped magnets 1628 may provide radially oriented magnetic polarity. For example, all sectors of the secondary annular alignment member 1618 may have a radially outward magnetic orientation or a radially inward magnetic orientation, or some sectors of the secondary annular alignment member 1618 may have a radially outward magnetic orientation while other sectors of the secondary annular alignment member 1618 have a radially inward magnetic orientation.

[0197] As described above, the primary annular alignment member 1616 and the secondary annular alignment member 1618 can provide shear forces that facilitate alignment in the lateral plane, such that the center point 1601 of the primary annular alignment member 1616 is aligned with the center point 1603 of the secondary annular alignment member 1618. However, the primary annular alignment member 1616 and the secondary annular alignment member 1618 may not provide torque forces favorable for any particular rotational orientation, such as longitudinal orientation.

[0198] Therefore, in some embodiments, in addition to the annular alignment member, the magnetic alignment system may also incorporate one or more rotary alignment members. The rotary alignment member may include one or more magnets that provide torque about a common axis of the (aligned) annular alignment member, enabling a preferred rotational orientation to be reliably established. For example, as... Figure 16As shown, the primary rotary alignment member 1622 may be disposed outside and spaced apart from the primary annular alignment member 1616, while the secondary rotary alignment member 1624 may be disposed outside and spaced apart from the secondary annular alignment member 1618. The secondary rotary alignment member 1624 may be positioned at a fixed distance (y0) from the center point 1603 of the secondary annular alignment member 1618 and centered between the side edges of the portable electronic device 1604 (as indicated by the distance x0 from either side edge). Similarly, the primary rotary alignment member 1622 may be positioned at the same distance y0 from the center point 1601 of the primary annular alignment member 1616 and positioned at a rotation angle that generates a torque curve that, when the secondary rotary alignment member 1624 is aligned with the primary rotary alignment member 1622, facilitates a desired orientation of the portable electronic device 1604 relative to the accessory 1602. It should be noted that the same distance y0 can be applied to a variety of portable electronic devices with different form factors, making a single accessory compatible with a range of portable electronic devices. A longer distance y0 can increase the torque toward preferred rotational alignment; however, the maximum distance y0 may be limited by design considerations, such as the size of the smallest portable electronic device in a range of portable electronic devices incorporating mutually compatible magnetic alignment systems.

[0199] According to some embodiments, each of the primary rotation alignment member 1622 and the secondary rotation alignment member 1624 may be implemented using one or more magnets (e.g., rare-earth magnets such as NdFeB), each of which has been magnetized such that its magnetic polarity is oriented in a desired direction. Figure 16In the example, the magnet has a rectangular shape; however, other shapes (e.g., circular shapes) may be substituted. The magnetic orientations of the rotation alignment members 1622 and 1624 may be complementary, such that an attractive magnetic force is applied when the proximal surfaces of the rotation alignment members 1622 and 1624 are brought close to each other. This attractive magnetic force can facilitate the rotation of the portable electronic device 1604 and accessory 1602 into a preferred rotation orientation in which the proximal surfaces of the rotation alignment members 1622 and 1624 are aligned with each other. Examples of magnetic orientations of the rotation alignment members 1622 and 1624 that can be used to provide the desired attractive force are described below. In some embodiments, the primary rotation alignment member 1622 and the secondary rotation alignment member 1624 may have the same lateral (xy) dimensions and the same thickness. The dimensions may be selected based on the desired magnetic field strength and / or torque, the size of the device in which the rotation alignment members are deployed, and other design considerations. In some embodiments, the lateral dimensions may be approximately 6 mm (x-direction) × approximately 16 mm (y-direction), and the thickness may be approximately 0.3 mm to approximately 1.5 mm; a specific size may be selected based on the dimensions of the device to be aligned. In some embodiments, the thickness of the rotary alignment member of a given device may be selected to match the thickness of the annular alignment member in that device. In some embodiments, each of the primary rotary alignment member 1622 and the secondary rotary alignment member 1624 may be implemented using two or more rectangular magnetic material blocks positioned adjacent to each other. As in other embodiments, small gaps may exist between adjacent magnets, for example, due to manufacturing tolerances.

[0200] Figure 17A and Figure 17B An example of rotational alignment according to some implementation schemes is shown. Figure 17A In this configuration, accessory 1602 is placed on the rear surface of portable electronic device 1604, such that primary annular alignment member 1616 and secondary alignment member 1618 are aligned with each other in a lateral plane, such that, in the view shown, the center point 1601 of primary annular alignment member 1616 overlaps the center point 1603 of secondary annular alignment member 1618. Relative rotation exists, causing rotational alignment members 1622 and 1624 to be misaligned. In this configuration, the attraction between rotational alignment members 1622 and 1624 can push portable electronic device 1604 and accessory 1602 toward a target rotational orientation. Figure 17B In this configuration, the attractive magnetic force between the rotational alignment components 1622 and 1624 enables the portable electronic device 1604 and accessory 1602 to be rotated and aligned with the side of the portable electronic device 1604 parallel to the side of the accessory 1602. In some embodiments, the attractive magnetic force between the rotational alignment components 1622 and 1624 may also help to hold the portable electronic device 1604 and accessory 1602 in a fixed rotational alignment.

[0201] Rotary alignment components 1622 and 1624 can have various magnetic orientation patterns. As long as the magnetic orientations of the rotary alignment components 1622 and 1624 are complementary to each other, a torque toward the target rotational orientation can exist when the device is laterally aligned and approaches the target rotational orientation. Figures 18A to 21B Examples of magnetic orientations for rotary alignment components according to various embodiments are shown. Although only one rotary alignment component is shown with respect to a magnetic orientation, it should be understood that the magnetic orientations of complementary rotary alignment components may be complementary to the magnetic orientations shown.

[0202] Figure 18A and Figure 18B Perspective and top views of a rotary alignment member 1824 with a "z-pole" configuration according to some embodiments are shown. It should be understood that these perspective views are not drawn to any particular scale, and the lateral (xy) dimensions and axial (z) thickness may vary as needed. Figure 18A As shown, the rotary alignment member 1824 can have a uniform magnetic orientation along the axial direction, as indicated by arrow 1805. Therefore, as... Figure 18B As shown, the north magnetic pole (N) is closest to the proximal surface 1803 of the rotating alignment member 1824. The complementary z-pole alignment member can have a uniform magnetic orientation, with the south magnetic pole closest to the proximal surface. The z-pole configuration provides reliable alignment.

[0203] Other configurations can provide users with reliable alignment and a stronger or more pronounced "clock-rotation" feel. In this context, "clock-rotation feel" refers to the user-perceived torque around the common axis of the annular alignment component, which pushes and / or resists small displacements from the target rotational alignment. A greater variation in torque with the rotation angle provides a more pronounced clock-rotation feel. Below are examples of magnetized configurations for rotational alignment components that provide a more... Figure 18A and Figure 18B The z-pole configuration provides a more pronounced clock-rotation feel.

[0204] Figure 19A and Figure 19B Perspective and top views of a rotary alignment member 1924 with a "quadrupole" configuration according to some embodiments are shown. It should be understood that these perspective views are not drawn to any particular scale, and the lateral (xy) dimensions and axial (z) thickness may vary as needed. Figure 19AAs shown, the rotary alignment member 1924 has a first magnetized region 1925 and a second magnetized region 1927; the first magnetized region has a magnetic orientation along the axial direction such that the north magnetic pole (N) is closest to the proximal (+z) surface 1903 of the rotary alignment member 1924 (as indicated by arrow 1905); the second magnetized region has a magnetic orientation opposite to that of the first region such that the south magnetic pole (S) is closest to the proximal surface 1903 (as indicated by arrow 1907). Between the magnetized regions 1925 and 1927 is an unmagnetized central region 1929. In some embodiments, the rotary alignment member 1924 may be formed from a single magnetic material piece exposed to a magnetizer to create regions 1925, 1927, and 1929. Alternatively, the rotary alignment member 1924 may be formed from two magnetic material pieces having a non-magnetic material or air gap between them. Figure 19B As shown, the proximal surface of the rotary alignment component 1924 may have one region with a "north" polarity and another region with a "south" polarity. Complementary quadrupole rotary alignment components may have corresponding south and north polarity regions on their proximal surfaces.

[0205] Figure 20A and Figure 20B Perspective and top views of a rotary alignment component 2024 with a "ring-shaped design" configuration according to some embodiments are shown. It should be understood that this perspective view is not drawn to any particular scale, and the lateral (xy) dimensions and axial (z) thickness may vary as needed. Figure 20A As shown, the rotary alignment member 2024 has an annular outer magnetized region 2025 and an inner magnetized region 2027; the annular outer magnetized region has a magnetic orientation along the axial direction such that the north magnetic pole (N) is closest to the proximal (+z) surface 2003 of the rotary alignment member 2024 (as indicated by arrow 2005); the inner magnetized region has a magnetic orientation opposite to that of the first region such that the south magnetic pole (S) is closest to the proximal surface 2003. Between the magnetized regions 2025 and 2027 is an unmagnetized neutral annular region 2029. In some embodiments, the rotary alignment member 2024 may be formed from a single magnetic material element exposed to a magnetizer to create regions 2025, 2027, and 2029. Alternatively, the rotary alignment member 2024 may be formed from two or more magnetic material elements having a non-magnetic material or air gap therebetween. Figure 20B As shown, the proximal surface of the rotary alignment component 2024 may have an annular outer region and an inner region, the annular outer region having a "north" polarity and the inner region having a "south" polarity. Complementary annular designs allow the proximal surface of the rotary alignment component to have an annular outer region with an south polarity and an inner region with a north polarity.

[0206] Figure 21A and Figure 21BPerspective and top views of a rotary alignment member 2124 with a "triple" configuration according to some embodiments are shown. It should be understood that this perspective view is not drawn to any particular scale, and the lateral (xy) dimensions and axial (z) thickness may vary as needed. Figure 21A As shown, the rotary alignment member 2124 has a central magnetized region 2125 and outer magnetized regions 2127, 2129; the central magnetized region has a magnetic orientation along the axial direction such that the south magnetic pole (S) is closest to the proximal (+z) surface 2103 of the rotary alignment member 2124 (as shown by arrow 2105); the two outer magnetized regions have a magnetic orientation opposite to that of the central region 2125 such that the north magnetic pole (N) is closest to the proximal surface 2103 (as shown by arrows 2107, 2109). Between each of the central magnetized region 2125 and the outer magnetized regions 2127, 2129 are unmagnetized neutral regions 2131, 2133. In some embodiments, the rotary alignment member 2124 may be formed from a single magnetic material element exposed to a magnetizer to produce regions 2125, 2127, 2129. Alternatively, the rotary alignment component 2124 may be formed using three (or more) magnetic material parts having non-magnetic material or air gaps during the process. Figure 21B As shown, the proximal surface may have a central region with a "south" polarity, and external regions with a "north" polarity exist on both sides of the proximal surface. The proximal surface of the complementary tripolar rotation alignment component may have a central region with a north polarity, and external regions with a south polarity exist on both sides of the proximal surface.

[0207] It should be understood that Figures 18A to 21B The examples shown are illustrative, and other configurations may be used. The choice of magnetization mode for the rotary alignment component may be independent of the magnetization mode of the annular alignment component used with the rotary alignment component.

[0208] In some implementations, the magnetization mode of the rotary alignment component can be selected based on an optimized torque profile. For example, as mentioned above, it may be desirable to provide the user with a significant clock-rotational feel when approaching the desired rotary alignment. This clock-rotational feel can be a result of the torque around the axis of rotation defined by the annular alignment component. The amount of torque depends on several factors, including the distance between the axis and the rotary alignment component. Figure 16 The distance y0 in the middle), the length of the rotation alignment component (in such a way as...) Figure 16 The strength of the magnetic field of the rotating alignment member (which may depend on the size of the rotating alignment member), the coefficient of friction between the aligned surfaces, and whether the annular alignment member applies any torque toward the preferred rotational orientation.

[0209] Figure 22 The following are examples of implementation schemes. Figure 16 The diagram shows the torque as a function of angular rotation (in degrees) for different magnetization configurations of the alignment components of the type shown. Angular rotation is defined such that zero degrees corresponds to the target rotation alignment (where the proximal surfaces of the rotation alignment components 1622 and 1624 are closest, for example, as...). Figure 17B (As shown). Torque is defined as the force in the direction that makes a positive (negative) value indicate a decrease (increase) in the rotation angle. To generate the torque curve, it is assumed that the annular alignment parts 1616 and 1618 are rotationally symmetric and that no torque is applied about the z-axis defined by center points 1601 and 1603. Three different magnetization configurations are considered. Line 2204 corresponds to Figure 19A and Figure 19B The quadrupole configuration. Line 2205 corresponds to... Figure 20A and Figure 20B The ring-shaped design configuration. Line 2206 corresponds to... Figure 21A and Figure 21B The tripolar configuration. As shown in the figure, compared to the quadrupole configuration (line 2204), the toroidal design (line 2205) and the tripolar configuration (line 2206) offer sharper peaks in torque, thus providing the user with a more pronounced clock-spinning feel. Furthermore, the tripolar configuration offers stronger peak torque, and therefore provides a more pronounced clock-spinning feel than the toroidal design. (The tripolar configuration also offers reduced flux leakage compared to other configurations.) It should be understood that... Figure 22 The values ​​shown are illustrative, and in specific implementations, the torque may depend on various other factors besides the magnetization configuration, such as magnet volume, aspect ratio, and distance y0 from the center of the annular alignment component.

[0210] exist Figure 16 In the example shown, a single rotating alignment component is positioned outside the annular alignment component at a distance y0 from the center of the annular alignment component. This arrangement allows a single magnetic element to generate torque, which produces a noticeable clock-like rotation feel when aligning the device for the user. In some embodiments, other arrangement indications are also possible. For example, Figure 23A portable electronic device 2304 with an alignment system 2300 according to some embodiments is shown, the alignment system having a plurality of rotating alignment components. In this example, the alignment system 2300 includes an annular alignment component 2318 and a set of rotating alignment components 2324 positioned at various locations around the periphery of the annular alignment component 2318. In this example, there are four rotating alignment components 2324 positioned at approximately 90-degree angular intervals. In other embodiments, different numbers and spacings of rotating alignment components may be used. Each rotating alignment component 2324 may have any of the magnetization configurations described above, including z-pole, quadrupole, tripole, or annular design configurations or different configurations. Furthermore, different rotating alignment components 2324 may have different magnetization configurations from each other. It should be noted that the rotating alignment components 2324 may be positioned close to the periphery of the annular alignment component 2318, and a larger number of magnetic components may utilize shorter lever arms to provide sufficient torque. Complementary rotary alignment components can be arranged around the outer periphery of any type of annular alignment component (e.g., a primary alignment component, a secondary alignment component, or an annular alignment component as described herein).

[0211] It should be understood that the foregoing examples of rotary alignment components are illustrative, and variations and modifications are possible. In some embodiments, a rotary alignment component may be provided as an optional auxiliary to annular alignment components, and a device having both annular and rotary alignment components can be laterally aligned with any other device having a complementary annular alignment component, regardless of whether the other device has a rotary alignment component. Thus, for example, Figure 16 The portable electronic device 1604 is rotatably aligned with accessory 1602 (which has both annular alignment member 1616 and rotary alignment member 1622) and with another accessory (such as) having annular alignment member 1616 but not rotary alignment member 1622. Figure 4 The wireless charger device 400 is laterally aligned. In the latter case, lateral alignment can be achieved, for example, to support effective wireless charging, but preferred rotational alignment may not be available, or rotational alignment can be achieved using non-magnetic features (e.g., mechanically retaining features such as flanges, clamps, notches, etc.). The rotational magnetic alignment component can be used with any type of annular magnetic alignment component (e.g., primary annular magnetic alignment component, secondary annular magnetic alignment component, or auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component as described below).

[0212] 3. Primary annular magnetic alignment component, secondary annular magnetic alignment component, and auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component

[0213] 3.1. Overview of the Three-Component Magnetic Alignment System

[0214] In some implementations, the magnetic alignment system can align more than two devices. An example of a magnetic alignment system having three annular alignment components (referred to as a primary annular magnetic alignment component, a secondary annular magnetic alignment component, and an auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component) will now be described. It should be understood that the primary and secondary annular magnetic alignment components described in this section may be the same as those described above, and a given pair of primary and secondary annular magnetic alignment components may be used with or without the auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component. It should also be understood that the system requiring alignment may include more than three devices, and additional auxiliary annular alignment components may be provided to facilitate the alignment of more than three devices.

[0215] Figure 24 A simplified representation of a wireless charging system 2400 incorporating a three-component magnetic alignment system 2406 according to some embodiments is shown. The wireless charging system 2400 includes a portable electronic device 2404, a wireless charger device 2402, and an accessory 2420 positioned between the portable electronic device 2404 and the wireless charger device 2402. The portable electronic device 2404 may be a consumer electronic device (such as a smartphone, tablet, wearable device, etc.) or any other electronic device desired to be wirelessly charged. The wireless charger device 2402 may be any device configured to generate a time-varying magnetic flux to induce a current in a suitably configured receiving device. For example, the wireless charger device 2402 may be a wireless charging pad, disk, charging stand, etc. The wireless charger device 2402 may include or be connected to a power source, such as battery power or standard AC power.

[0216] To enable wireless power transfer, the portable electronic device 2404 and the wireless charger device 2402 may each include induction coils 2410 and 2412, operable to transfer power between the portable electronic device and the wireless charger device. For example, induction coil 2412 may be a transmitter coil generating a time-varying magnetic flux 2414, and induction coil 2410 may be a receiver coil inducing a current therein in response to the time-varying magnetic flux 2414. The received current can be used to charge the battery of the portable electronic device 2404 to provide operating power to components of the portable electronic device 2404, and / or for other purposes as needed. In some embodiments, wireless power transfer between the wireless charger device 2402 and the portable electronic device 2404 may occur regardless of the presence of accessory 2420.

[0217] Attachment 2420 may be an accessory used with portable electronic device 2404 to protect, enhance, and / or supplement the aesthetics and / or functionality of portable electronic device 2404. For example, attachment 2420 may be a protective housing, external battery pack, camera accessory, or any other charging penetration accessory. In some embodiments, attachment 2420 may include one or more wireless charging coils 2438. For example, attachment 2420 may be a portable external battery pack that can be attached to and carried with portable electronic device 2404. In some embodiments, attachment 2420 may operate the wireless charging coil 2438 as a receiver coil to charge its onboard battery (e.g., via wireless charger device 2402) or as a transmitter coil to provide power to portable electronic device 2404. In some embodiments, attachment 2420 may include separate transmitter and receiver coils 2438. Depending on the current situation, attachment 2420 may operate the coil 2438 to transmit or receive power and store power. In other embodiments, accessory 2420 may be a "powerless" or "passive" accessory, such as a housing that does not contain active circuitry, and the wireless charging coil 2438 may be omitted. In such cases, accessory 2420 may be designed not to inhibit wireless power transfer between the wireless charger device 2402 and the portable electronic device 2404. For example, the relevant portion of accessory 2420 may be made of materials such as plastic, leather, or other materials that are permeable to the time-varying magnetic flux 2414.

[0218] To achieve efficient wireless power transmission, it is desirable to align induction coils 2412 and 2410 (and coil 2438 in embodiments where coil 2438 is present). According to some embodiments, a magnetic alignment system 2406 can provide this alignment. Figure 24 In the example shown, the magnetic alignment system 2406 includes a primary magnetic alignment member 2416 disposed within or on the surface of the wireless charger device 2402, a secondary magnetic alignment member 2418 disposed within or on the surface of the portable electronic device 2402, and an auxiliary magnetic alignment member 2470 disposed within or on the surface of the accessory 2420. The primary magnetic alignment member 2416, the secondary magnetic alignment member 2418, and the auxiliary magnetic alignment member 2470 are configured to magnetically attract each other to an alignment position in which induction coils 2410 and 2412 (and / or 2438, if present) are aligned with each other to provide effective wireless power transmission.

[0219] The magnetic alignment system 2406 is modular because various types of accessories 2420 (if accessory 2420 includes an auxiliary alignment member 2470) can be aligned with the primary magnetic alignment member 2416 and / or the secondary magnetic alignment member 2418. For example, in some embodiments (e.g., where accessory 2420 is a protective housing), accessory 2420 can be mechanically coupled to portable electronic device 2404 in a fixed position such that the auxiliary magnetic alignment member 2420 is aligned with the secondary magnetic alignment member 2418, and portable electronic device 2404 can rely entirely or partially on the auxiliary magnetic alignment member 2470 for alignment with the primary alignment member 2418 of wireless charger device 2402. Therefore, when accessory 2420 is positioned on the charging surface 2408 of wireless charger device 2402 such that the primary alignment member 2416 is aligned with the auxiliary alignment member 2470, the secondary alignment member 2418 of portable electronic device 2404 is also aligned with the primary alignment member 2470, and efficient wireless power transmission is supported.

[0220] For example, in some embodiments where accessory 2420 is an external battery, auxiliary alignment member 2470 can attract and align with secondary alignment member 2418, allowing power from an internal power source (not shown) within accessory 2420 to be wirelessly transferred to portable electronic device 2404 using induction coils 2438 and 2410. The modularity of the magnetic alignment system 2406 also allows wireless charger device 2402 to be stacked with portable electronic device 2404 and accessory 2420. For example, auxiliary alignment member 2470 can attract and align with secondary alignment member 2418, and simultaneously attract and align with primary alignment member 2416. Therefore, when portable electronic device 2404, accessory 2420, and wireless charger device 2402 are all stacked together, power can be wirelessly transferred from wireless charger device 2402 to accessory 2420 (e.g., to charge the internal battery of accessory 2420) and from accessory 2420 to portable electronic device 2404. Both power transfers can be performed simultaneously; that is, while accessory 2420 supplies power to portable electronic device 2404, wireless charger device 2402 can supply power to accessory 2420. In some embodiments, to achieve simultaneous power transfer, accessory 2420 may include two induction coils 2438, one for receiving power and one for transmitting power. In other embodiments, power transfers can be performed sequentially; for example, wireless charger device 2402 can supply power to accessory 2402, and accessory 2402 can supply power to portable electronic device 2404 when wireless charger device 2402 is not supplying power.

[0221] Figure 24It is illustrative, not restrictive. For example, although Figure 24 Three devices stacked together are shown, but it should be understood that the same principles can be applied to form systems with four or more devices. For example, a wireless charging system may include a portable electronic device coupled to a protective housing attached to and magnetically aligned with an external battery, which in turn is attached to and magnetically aligned with a wireless charger device. All induction coils within the respective devices may be aligned together, and wireless power may be transferred between the wireless charger device and the external battery, between the battery and the portable electronic device, and / or between the wireless charger device and the portable electronic device. It should be understood that any number of devices may be stacked together without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0222] According to the embodiments described herein, the alignment components (including primary alignment components, secondary alignment components, or auxiliary alignment components) of a magnetic alignment system may be formed from bow-shaped magnets arranged in a ring configuration. In some embodiments, each magnet may have its magnetic polarity oriented in a desired direction, such that the magnetic attraction between the primary alignment components, secondary alignment components, and auxiliary alignment components provides the desired alignment. In some embodiments, the bow-shaped magnet may include a first magnetic region having a magnetic polarity oriented in a first direction and a second magnetic region having a magnetic polarity oriented in a second direction different from the first direction. As will be described, different configurations may provide different degrees of magnetic field leakage.

[0223] 3.2. Magnetic alignment system with uniaxial magnetic orientation

[0224] Figure 25A A perspective view of a magnetic alignment system 2500 according to some embodiments is shown, and Figure 25B It shows a 2500-span magnetic alignment system Figure 25A The cross-section cut by the indicated cutting plane. The magnetic alignment system 2500 can be... Figure 24 A specific implementation of the magnetic alignment system 2406. In the magnetic alignment system 2500, all alignment components have magnetic polarity oriented in the same direction (along the axis of the ring configuration).

[0225] like Figure 25A As shown, the magnetic alignment system 2500 may include a primary alignment component 2516 (which may be...) Figure 24 The specific implementation of the primary alignment component 2416), and the secondary alignment component 2518 (which may be...) Figure 24The primary alignment member 2516, secondary alignment member 2518, and auxiliary alignment member 2570 (which may be a specific implementation of the auxiliary alignment member 2470 described above) are further classified as follows: The primary alignment member 2516, secondary alignment member 2518, and auxiliary alignment member 2570 have annular shapes and may also be referred to as "annular" alignment members. Specific dimensions may be selected as needed. In some embodiments, the dimensions may be similar to the exemplary values ​​given above in section 1.

[0226] Primary alignment component 2516 may include multiple sectors, each sector formed by one or more primary bow-shaped magnets 2526. Secondary alignment component 2518 may include multiple sectors, each sector formed by one or more auxiliary bow-shaped magnets 2528. Auxiliary alignment component 2470 may include multiple sectors, each sector formed by one or more auxiliary bow-shaped magnets 2572. In the illustrated example, the number of primary magnets 2526 is equal to the number of secondary magnets 2528 and equal to the number of auxiliary magnets 2570, and each sector includes exactly one magnet, but this is not required. The primary magnets 2526, secondary magnets 2528, and auxiliary magnets 2572 may have bow-shaped (or curved) shapes in the transverse plane such that when the primary magnets 2526 (or secondary magnets 2528 or auxiliary magnets 2572) are positioned end-to-end adjacent to each other, the primary magnets 2526 (or secondary magnets 2528 or auxiliary magnets 2572) form a ring structure, as shown. In some embodiments, primary magnets 2526 may contact each other at joint 2530, secondary magnets 2528 may contact each other at joint 2532, and auxiliary magnets 2572 may contact each other at joint 2574. Alternatively, a small gap or spacing may separate adjacent primary magnets 2526, adjacent secondary magnets 2528, or adjacent auxiliary magnets 2572, thus providing a greater degree of tolerance during manufacturing.

[0227] In some embodiments, the primary alignment member 2516 may further include an annular shield 2514 disposed on the distal surface of the primary magnet 2526. In some embodiments, the shield 2514 may be formed as a single annular material piece and adhered to the primary magnet 2526 to secure the primary magnet 2526 in place. The shield 2514 may be formed of a material having high permeability and / or high magnetic saturation value, such as stainless steel or low carbon steel, and may redirect magnetic fields to prevent these magnetic fields from propagating beyond the distal side of the primary alignment member 2516, thereby protecting sensitive electronic components located outside the distal side of the primary alignment member 2516 from magnetic interference.

[0228] The primary magnet 2526, secondary magnet 2528, and auxiliary magnet 2572 may be made of magnetic materials (such as NdFeB, other rare-earth magnetic materials, or other materials that can be magnetized to generate a continuous magnetic field). Each primary magnet 2526, each secondary magnet 2528, and each auxiliary magnet 2572 may have an integral structure with a single magnetic region having magnetic polarities aligned in the axial direction, such as... Figure 25B The magnetic polarity indicators 2515, 2517, and 2519 are shown in the diagram. For example, each primary magnet 2526, each secondary magnet 2528, and each auxiliary magnet 2572 can be a bar magnet that has been polished and shaped into an arc-shaped structure with an axial magnetic orientation. In the example shown, the primary magnet 2526 is oriented with its north pole facing the proximal surface and its south pole facing the distal surface; the secondary magnet 2528 is oriented with its south pole facing the proximal surface and its north pole facing the distal surface; and the auxiliary magnet 2572 has a corresponding magnetic orientation such that the north pole of the auxiliary magnet 2572 is oriented towards the proximal surface of the secondary magnet 2528, and the south pole of the auxiliary magnet 2572 is oriented towards the proximal surface of the primary magnet 2526. In other embodiments, the magnetic orientation can be reversed such that the south pole of the primary magnet 2526 is oriented toward the proximal surface and the north pole toward the distal surface, while the north pole of the secondary magnet 2528 is oriented toward the proximal surface and the south pole toward the distal surface, and the auxiliary magnet 2572 has a corresponding magnetic orientation such that the south pole of the auxiliary magnet 2572 is oriented toward the proximal surface of the secondary magnet 2528 and the north pole of the auxiliary magnet 2572 is oriented toward the proximal surface of the primary magnet 2526.

[0229] like Figure 25B As shown, the axial magnetic orientation of the primary magnet 2526, the auxiliary magnet 2572, and the secondary magnet 2528 can generate a magnetic field 2540. These magnetic fields exert attractive forces between the primary magnet 2526 and the auxiliary magnet 2572, and between the auxiliary magnet 2572 and the secondary magnet 2528, thereby facilitating alignment between corresponding devices in which the primary alignment member 2516, the auxiliary alignment member 2570, and the secondary alignment member 2518 are provided (e.g., as shown). Figure 24 (As shown). While shielding 2514 redirects some of the magnetic field in magnetic field 2540 away from the area beneath primary magnet 2526, magnetic field 2540 can still propagate to areas laterally adjacent to primary magnet 2526 and secondary magnet 2528. In some embodiments, lateral propagation of magnetic field 2540 can cause magnetic field leakage to other magnetically sensitive components. For example, if an induction coil with ferromagnetic shielding is placed inside (or on the inside of) the annular primary alignment component 2516 (or secondary alignment component 2518), leakage of magnetic field 2540 may saturate the ferromagnetic shielding, potentially reducing wireless charging performance.

[0230] It should be understood that the magnetic alignment system 2500 is exemplary, and variations and modifications thereof are possible. For example, while the primary alignment component 2516, the auxiliary alignment component 2570, and the secondary alignment component 2518 are each shown as consisting of eight arcuate magnets, other embodiments may use different numbers of magnets, such as 16 magnets, 36 magnets, or any other number of magnets, and the number of primary magnets need not be equal to the number of secondary magnets. Similarly, the number of auxiliary magnets need not be equal to the number of primary magnets or the number of secondary magnets. In other embodiments, the primary alignment component 2516 and / or the secondary alignment component 2518 and / or the auxiliary alignment component 2570 may each be formed from a single integral ring magnet; however, segmenting the alignment components 2516, 2518, and 2570 into arcuate magnets can improve manufacturing, as referenced above. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As stated above.

[0231] 3.3. Magnetic alignment system with closed-loop magnetic configuration

[0232] As referenced above Figure 25B As mentioned above, magnetic alignment systems with a single axial magnetic orientation can produce lateral leakage of the magnetic field, which can adversely affect the performance of other components of an electronic device. Therefore, some embodiments provide magnetic alignment systems with a closed-loop magnetic configuration that reduces magnetic field leakage. Examples will now be described.

[0233] Figure 26A A perspective view of a magnetic alignment system 2600 according to some embodiments is shown, and Figure 26B It shows a 2600-span magnetic alignment system Figure 26A The cross-section cut by the indicated cutting plane. The magnetic alignment system 2600 can be... Figure 24 A specific implementation of the magnetic alignment system 2406. In the magnetic alignment system 2600, the alignment component has a magnetic component configured in a "closed-loop" configuration as described below.

[0234] like Figure 26A As shown, the magnetic alignment system 2600 may include a primary alignment component 2616 (which may be...) Figure 24 The primary alignment component 2416 is a specific implementation thereof, and the secondary alignment component 2618 (which may be...) Figure 24 The specific implementation of the secondary alignment component 2418) and the auxiliary alignment component 2670 (which may be Figure 24(Specific implementation of the auxiliary alignment member 2470). The primary alignment member 2616, the secondary alignment member 2618, and the auxiliary alignment member 2670 have annular shapes and may also be referred to as "annular" alignment members. Specific sizes may be selected as needed. In some embodiments, the sizes may be similar to the exemplary values ​​given above in section 1.

[0235] Primary alignment component 2616 may include multiple sectors, each sector formed by multiple primary magnets 2626; secondary alignment component 2618 may include multiple sectors, each sector formed by multiple secondary magnets 2628; and auxiliary alignment component 2670 may include multiple sectors, each sector formed by multiple auxiliary magnets 2672. In the illustrated example, the number of primary magnets 2626 is equal to the number of secondary magnets 2628 and equal to the number of auxiliary magnets 2672, and each sector includes exactly one magnet, but this is not required. The primary magnets 2626, secondary magnets 2628, and auxiliary magnets 2672 may have an arcuate (or curved) shape in the transverse plane, such that when the primary magnets 2626 (or secondary magnets 2628 or auxiliary magnets 2672) are positioned end-to-end adjacent to each other, the primary magnets 2626 (or secondary magnets 2628 or auxiliary magnets 2672) form a ring structure, as shown. In some embodiments, adjacent primary magnets 2626 may contact each other at joint 2630, adjacent secondary magnets 2628 may contact each other at joint 2632, and adjacent auxiliary magnets 2672 may contact each other at joint 2680. Alternatively, a small gap or spacing may separate adjacent primary magnets 2626, adjacent secondary magnets 2628, or adjacent auxiliary magnets 2672, thus providing a greater degree of tolerance during manufacturing.

[0236] In some embodiments, the primary alignment member 2616 may further include an annular shield 2614 disposed on the distal surface of the primary magnet 2626. In some embodiments, the shield 2614 may be formed as a single annular material piece and adhered to the primary magnet 2626 to hold the primary magnet 2626 in place. The shield 2614 may be formed of a material with high magnetic permeability, such as stainless steel, and may redirect magnetic fields to prevent these magnetic fields from propagating beyond the distal side of the primary alignment member 2616, thereby protecting sensitive electronic components located outside the distal side of the primary alignment member 2616 from magnetic interference. In some embodiments, the auxiliary alignment member 2670 does not include a similar shield, thereby providing a stronger magnetic attraction with the primary alignment member 2616.

[0237] The primary magnet 2626, secondary magnet 2628, and auxiliary magnet 2672 may be made of magnetic materials (such as NdFeB, other rare-earth magnetic materials, or other materials that can be magnetized to generate a continuous magnetic field). Each secondary magnet 2628 may have a single magnetic region, which has magnetic polarity (e.g., ...). Figure 26B As shown by magnetic polarity indicator 2617 in the diagram, the magnetic polarity has a component in the radial direction in the transverse plane. As described below, the magnetic orientation may be in the radial direction relative to axis 2601 or in another direction having a radial component in the transverse plane. Each primary magnet 2626 may include two magnetic regions with opposite magnetic orientations. For example, each primary magnet 2626 may include: having a magnetic orientation in a first axial direction (e.g., ...). Figure 26B The internal arc-shaped magnetic region 2652 (shown by the polarity indicator 2653 in the figure) has a magnetic orientation in a second axial direction opposite to the first direction (as shown in the figure). Figure 26B The outer arcuate magnetic region 2654 (shown by polarity indicator 2655) and the central unmagnetized region 2656 (not having a magnetic orientation) are present. The central unmagnetized region 2656 magnetically separates the inner arcuate region 2652 from the outer arcuate region 2654 by preventing the magnetic field from passing directly through the central region 2656. Similarly, each auxiliary magnet 2672 may include two magnetic regions with opposite magnetic orientations. For example, each auxiliary magnet 2672 may include: a magnetic orientation in a first axial direction (e.g., ... Figure 26B The internal arc-shaped magnetic region 2674 (shown by polarity indicator 2673) has a magnetic orientation in a second axial direction opposite to the first direction (as shown by polarity indicator 2673). Figure 26B The outer arc-shaped magnetic region 2676 (shown by polarity indicator 2675) and the central unmagnetized region 2678, which has no magnetic orientation, are defined. By suppressing the magnetic field from passing directly through the central region 2678, the central unmagnetized region 2678 magnetically separates the inner arc-shaped region 2674 from the outer arc-shaped region 2676.

[0238] In some embodiments, each secondary magnet 2626 may be made of a magnetic material that has been polished and shaped into an arcuate structure, and a magnetizer may be used, for example, to generate a magnetic orientation having a radial component in the transverse plane. Similarly, each primary magnet 2626 may be made of a single piece of magnetic material that has been polished and shaped into an arcuate structure, and a magnetizer may be applied to the arcuate structure to induce an axial magnetic orientation in one direction within the inner arcuate region of the structure, and an axial magnetic orientation in the opposite direction within the outer arcuate region of the structure, while demagnetizing the central region or preventing the generation of a magnetic orientation in the central region. In some alternative embodiments, each primary magnet 2626 may be a composite structure having two arcuate magnetic material pieces providing an inner arcuate magnetic region 2652 and an outer arcuate magnetic region 2654; in such embodiments, the central unmagnetized region 2656 may be formed of an arcuate nonmagnetic (or demagnetized) material piece, or formed as an air gap defined by the sidewalls of the inner arcuate magnetic region 2652 and the outer arcuate magnetic region 2654. Any manufacturing technique applicable to forming the primary magnet 2626 can also be used to form the auxiliary magnet 2672. Thus, each auxiliary magnet 2672 can be made from a single piece of magnetic material that has been polished and shaped into an arcuate structure, and a magnetizer can be applied to the arcuate structure to induce axial magnetic orientation in one direction within the inner arcuate region of the structure and axial magnetic orientation in the opposite direction within the outer arcuate region of the structure, while demagnetizing the central region or preventing magnetic orientation from occurring in the central region. In some alternative embodiments, each auxiliary magnet 2672 can be a composite structure having two arcuate magnetic material pieces providing an inner arcuate magnetic region 2674 and an outer arcuate magnetic region 2676; in such embodiments, the central unmagnetized region 2678 can be formed from an arcuate nonmagnetic (or demagnetized) material piece, or formed as an air gap defined by the sidewalls of the inner arcuate magnetic region 2674 and the outer arcuate magnetic region 2676. It should be understood that in some embodiments, one manufacturing technique may be used for the primary magnet 2626, while different manufacturing techniques may be used for the auxiliary magnet 2672; for example, each auxiliary magnet 2672 may be integral, while each primary magnet 2626 is a composite structure. Alignment between devices can be provided as long as the magnetic fields of the various magnets are aligned as described. Furthermore, as referenced above to 3A and Figure 3B The internal and external bow-shaped magnetic regions of the quadrupole primary bow-shaped magnet or auxiliary bow-shaped magnet may have, but do not need to have, equal magnetic field strengths; asymmetric polarization as described above can be applied.

[0239] like Figure 26BAs shown, the internal arcuate magnetic region 2652 of the primary magnet 2626 and the internal arcuate magnetic region 2674 of the auxiliary magnet 2672 may have the same magnetic orientation, as indicated by polarity indicators 2653 and 2673. Similarly, the external arcuate magnetic region 2654 of the primary magnet 2626 and the external arcuate magnetic region 2676 of the auxiliary magnet 2672 may have the same magnetic orientation, as indicated by polarity indicators 2655 and 2675. This configuration generates a magnetic attraction between the primary magnet 2626 and the auxiliary magnet 2672, which can facilitate alignment between the two magnets. The magnetic polarity of the secondary magnet 2628 (indicated by indicator 2617) can be oriented such that when the secondary magnetic alignment member 2618 is aligned with the auxiliary magnetic alignment member 2670, the south pole of the secondary magnet 2628 is oriented toward the north pole of the inner arcuate magnetic region 2674 of the auxiliary magnet 2672 (and also toward the north pole of the inner arcuate magnetic region 2652 of the primary magnet 2626), while the north pole of the secondary magnet 2628 is oriented toward the south pole of the outer arcuate magnetic region 2676 of the auxiliary magnet 2672 (and also toward the south pole of the outer arcuate magnetic region 2654 of the primary magnet 2626).

[0240] Therefore, the corresponding magnetic orientations of the internal arcuate magnetic regions 2652, 2674, the secondary magnet 2628, and the external arcuate magnetic regions 2676, 2678 can generate magnetic fields 2640. These magnetic fields exert attractive forces between the primary magnet 2626 and the auxiliary magnet 2672, and between the auxiliary magnet 2672 and the secondary magnet 2628, thereby facilitating alignment between corresponding electronic devices in which the primary alignment member 2616, the auxiliary alignment member 2670, and the secondary alignment member 2618 are disposed (e.g., ...). Figure 24 (As shown). The shield 2614 at the distal surface of the primary magnet 2626 can redirect some of the magnetic field in the magnetic field 2640 away from the region below the primary magnet 2626. Furthermore, the "closed-loop" magnetic field 2640 formed around the central unmagnetized regions 2656 and 2678 can have tight and compact field lines that do not stray outside the primary magnet 2626, the auxiliary magnet 2672, and the secondary magnet 2628 until... Figure 25B The stray magnetic field 2540 is scattered outside the primary magnet 2526, the auxiliary magnet 2572, and the secondary magnet 2528. Therefore, with reduced concerns about stray magnetic fields, the magnetically sensitive component can be placed relatively close to the primary alignment component 2616. Thus, compared to the magnetic alignment system 2500, the magnetic alignment system 2600 can help reduce the overall size of the device in which the primary alignment component 2616 is located, and can also help reduce the noise generated by the magnetic field 2640 in adjacent components (such as the induction receiving coil located inside the secondary alignment component 2618).

[0241] It should be understood that the magnetic alignment system 2600 is exemplary, and variations and modifications thereof are possible. For example, while the primary alignment member 2616, the auxiliary alignment member 2672, and the secondary alignment member 2618 are each shown as consisting of eight arcuate magnets, other embodiments may use different numbers of magnets, such as 16 magnets, 36 magnets, or any other number of magnets, and the number of primary magnets need not be equal to the number of secondary magnets. Similarly, the number of auxiliary magnets need not be equal to the number of primary magnets or the number of secondary magnets. In other embodiments, the secondary alignment member 2618 may be formed from a single integral ring magnet. Similarly, the primary alignment component 2616 and / or the auxiliary alignment component 2672 may each be formed as a single monolithic toroidal magnetic material piece having a suitable magnetization mode as described above, or the primary alignment component 2616 and / or the auxiliary alignment component 2672 may each be formed as a monolithic inner toroidal magnet and a monolithic outer toroidal magnet, wherein an toroidal air gap or non-magnetic material region is disposed between the inner and outer toroidal magnets. However, the use of a configuration with multiple bow-shaped magnets improves manufacturing because smaller bow-shaped magnets are less fragile than a single monolithic toroidal magnet and less prone to loss due to physical stress applied to the magnetic material during manufacturing. It should also be understood that the magnetic orientation of the various components or individual magnets does not need to be precisely aligned with the lateral and axial directions. The magnetic orientation can have any angle that provides a closed-loop path for the magnetic field passing through the primary alignment component and the secondary alignment component.

[0242] 3.4. Magnetic Orientation of Closed-Loop Magnetic Alignment System

[0243] The above reference Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 7 , Figures 8A to 8C , Figures 9A to 9B or Figure 10 Any of the aforementioned magnetic orientations can also be applied to systems including auxiliary alignment components. This allows the magnetic orientation of the auxiliary magnet to match the magnetic orientation of the corresponding primary magnet.

[0244] 3.5. Annular magnetic alignment component with gap

[0245] In the above example, the primary magnetic alignment component, the secondary magnetic alignment component, and the auxiliary magnetic alignment component have annular shapes. As described above (for example, refer to...), Figure 3A The ring can be completely closed. In other embodiments, the ring may include one or more gaps, where each gap may be a portion of the ring that is free of magnetic material (or any other material). (See above reference) Figure 11An exemplary magnetic alignment component with gaps has been described, and it should be understood that auxiliary alignment components may also include one or more gaps, for example, to accommodate the shape factor of an accessory device in which the auxiliary magnetic alignment component is located and / or to accommodate electronic circuit components that may be present in the accessory device. Furthermore, compatible annular alignment components in different devices may differ in the number, size, and / or location of gaps.

[0246] 3.6. Accessory device incorporating magnetic alignment components

[0247] Figure 27 A simplified rear view of an accessory device 2700 incorporating an auxiliary magnetic alignment component according to some embodiments is shown. In the example shown, the accessory device incorporates an auxiliary alignment component; however, it should be understood that the accessory device may alternatively incorporate a primary magnetic alignment component or a secondary magnetic alignment component.

[0248] Accessory device 2700 may be, for example, a portable electronic device such as Figure 12A The accessory device 2700 may have a protective or aesthetic housing for the smartphone 1200. Therefore, the accessory device 2700 may have a housing 2702, the size of which may be the same as (or slightly larger than) the smartphone 1200. In some embodiments, the housing 2702 may be shaped as a tray covering the side and rear surfaces of the smartphone 1200 while exposing the front (display) surface of the smartphone 1200. The housing 2702 (or a portion thereof) may be made of plastic, rubber, silicone, leather, and / or other materials. An auxiliary alignment member 2770 may be disposed in a location within the housing 2702 such that when the smartphone 1200 is inserted into the accessory device 2700 in a preferred orientation, the auxiliary alignment member 2770 is coaxially aligned with the secondary alignment member 1218 of the smartphone 1200.

[0249] The auxiliary alignment component 2770 may be a specific implementation of any of the auxiliary alignment components described above and may include an annular arrangement of magnets 2772 having a joint 2780, which may be an air gap or a joint where adjacent magnets contact each other. The magnets 2772 may have a quadrupole configuration as described above; for example, each magnet 2772 may include: an inner arcuate region having an axial magnetic orientation in a first direction, an outer arcuate region having an axial magnetic orientation in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a central arcuate region without a distinct magnetic orientation. Although Figure 27Not shown, but the auxiliary magnetic alignment component 2770 may include one or more gaps between adjacent magnets 2772. In some embodiments, the gaps may provide electrical connection paths for wire (or conductive traces) to connect between areas inside and outside the auxiliary magnetic alignment component 2770, and in some embodiments, the gaps may be arranged to allow the housing 2702 to have reduced lateral dimensions for use with smartphones having a smaller form factor. For example, the gap pattern may be consistent with... Figure 12B The gap pattern matching of the magnetic alignment component 1218' of the smartphone 1200'.

[0250] In some implementations, it may be desirable to support wireless data transfer between accessory device 2700 and smartphone 1200, for example, to allow accessory device 2700 to recognize itself in relation to smartphone 1200. Therefore, in some implementations, a near-field communication (NFC) coil 2766 may be disposed in an area inside the magnetic alignment member 2766. In some implementations, the NFC coil 2766 may be coupled to a passive NFC tag that can be read by an NFC reader appropriately configured (e.g., in smartphone 1200 of FIG. 12). Exemplary implementations of the NFC coil 2766 will be described in Section 5 below.

[0251] In the example shown, accessory device 2700 is a passive device whose function may be protection and / or aesthetics. Therefore, it may be desirable to make accessory device 2700 thin and provide smooth inner and outer surfaces. In some embodiments, magnet 2772 may have a thin axial dimension, allowing accessory device 2700 to have smooth surfaces and the desired thinness. Accessory device 2700 may have a variety of shapes and features. For example, accessory device 2700 may be a tray that covers the side and rear surfaces of smartphone 1200 while exposing the front (display) surface of smartphone 1200. Alternatively, accessory device 2700 may include a cover that can fold over and unfold above the front surface of smartphone 1200 to allow access to the display. As another example, accessory device 2700 may be formed as a sleeve with an opening at one end (e.g., top or side) to allow smartphone 1200 to be inserted into the sleeve when not in use and removed from the sleeve for use.

[0252] In the example shown, accessory device 2700 may be a passive device without power-consuming components. Therefore, the region 2711 inside the annular alignment member 2770 may be made of the same material as the surrounding housing 2702, thus providing a continuous rear surface for accessory device 2700. Alternatively, a portion or all of region 2711 may be material-free, allowing a corresponding portion of the rear surface of smartphone 1200 to be exposed. In some embodiments, the housing 2702 (or a portion thereof) of accessory device 2700 may be made of a transparent material, allowing the rear surface (or a portion thereof) of smartphone 1200 to be seen through accessory device 2700. In the absence of a transparent magnetic material, an annular region of opaque material may be positioned above the magnetic alignment member 2770, making the individual magnets invisible. The opaque material may have one or more colors chosen for a desired aesthetic effect.

[0253] In some embodiments, annex 2700 may be an active device. For example, annex 2700 may include an external battery capable of providing power to smartphone 1200. Therefore, the central region 2711 may include one or more wireless charging coils, which may be referenced above. Figure 24 Arranged and operated as described in Annex 2420.

[0254] 3.7. Wireless charging system with magnetic alignment

[0255] Figure 28A The following are shown according to some implementation schemes, including ( Figure 27 (of) accessory equipment 2700 and ( Figure 13 The wireless charger device 1300 is aligned with ( Figure 12A A simplified perspective view of a portable electronic device 1200 system 2800. Figure 28AIn the figure, portions of the wireless charger device 1300 and accessory device 2700 are shown using dashed lines to avoid obscuring other details. As shown, the accessory device 2700 can be positioned adjacent to the portable electronic device 1200, for example, by inserting the portable electronic device 1200 into the accessory device 2700, and the wireless charger device 1300 can be positioned such that its charging (or proximal) surface abuts against the rear (or proximal) surface 2803 of the accessory device 2700. When the devices are placed in this arrangement, the secondary alignment member 1218 in the portable electronic device 1200 is aligned with the auxiliary alignment member 2770 of the accessory device 2700 and the primary alignment member 1316 of the wireless charger device 1300. Therefore, the auxiliary alignment member 2770 in accessory device 2700 and the secondary alignment member 1218 in portable electronic device 120 can attract and hold the primary magnetic alignment member 1316 of wireless charger device 1300 in alignment, such that the transmitter coil assembly 1312 of wireless charger device 1300 is aligned with the coil assembly 1210 of portable electronic device 1200. As shown, wireless charger device 1300 may have any rotational orientation about an axis defined by the centers of primary magnetic alignment member 1316 and secondary magnetic alignment member 1218; for example, the gap 1201 in secondary magnetic alignment member 1218 does not need to be aligned with the gap 1301 in primary magnetic alignment member 1316.

[0256] Figure 28B A simplified partial cross-sectional view of a system 2800 according to some embodiments is shown. The portable electronic device 1200 has a rear housing 2802 (which may be made of a material such as glass or plastic capable of transmitting electromagnetic and DC magnetic fields) and a front housing 2804 (which may include a touchscreen display). A coil assembly 1210 may include an inductive receiver coil 2810 (which may be made of, for example, stranded wire wound into a coil) and a shield 2812 (which may include, for example, a ferromagnetic shield). A secondary magnet 2828 forms part of a secondary magnetic alignment member 1218 and may have a magnetic field oriented in a radially inward direction (as indicated by the arrows). It should be understood that, although... Figure 28A The secondary alignment component 1218 is shown, but the rear housing 2802 may be opaque, and the secondary alignment component 1218 does not need to be visible to the user.

[0257] The wireless charger device 1300 has a housing 1302, which includes a one-piece shell 2806 forming the distal and side surfaces of the housing 1302 and a top cover 2808 forming the proximal surface of the housing 1302. As described above, the shell 2806 and the top cover 2808 may be made of the same or different materials, and the top cover 2808 may be made of a material that can transmit AC electromagnetic fields and DC magnetic fields. The transmitter coil assembly 1312 may include an inductive transmitter coil 2816 (which may be made of, for example, stranded wire wound into a coil) and an electromagnetic shield 2814 (which may include, for example, a ferromagnetic shield). The primary bow-shaped magnet 2826 forms part of the primary magnetic alignment member 1316 and may include: an inner bow-shaped region 2852 having a magnetic field oriented in a first axial direction, an outer bow-shaped region 2854 having a magnetic field oriented in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction, and a non-magnetized central bow-shaped region 2856. As described above, the shield 2814 can be disposed on the distal surface of the primary magnet 2826. It should be understood that, although... Figure 28A The primary alignment component 1316 is shown, but the housing 1302 may be opaque, and the primary alignment component 1316 does not need to be visible to the user.

[0258] The accessory device 2700 has a rear housing 2702, which includes a rear layer 2805 (forming a rear surface 2803) and a front layer 2807 of the rear housing 2802 that contacts the portable electronic device 1200 at a surface 2809. The rear layer 2805 and the front layer 2807 may be made of the same or different materials as needed. An auxiliary bow-shaped magnet 2872 forms part of the auxiliary alignment member 2770 and may include: an inner bow-shaped portion 2874 having a magnetic field oriented in a first axial direction, an outer bow-shaped portion 2876 having a magnetic field oriented in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction, and a non-magnetized central bow-shaped portion 2878. It should be understood that, although Figure 28A The auxiliary alignment component 2770 is shown, but the rear housing 2702 may be opaque, and the auxiliary alignment component 2770 does not need to be visible to the user.

[0259] During alignment, the primary magnet 2826, auxiliary magnet 2872, and secondary magnet 2828 generate a closed-loop magnetic flux, as shown in line 2840. The magnetic flux 2840 attracts the primary annular alignment member 1318, auxiliary annular alignment member 2770, and secondary annular alignment member 1216 into alignment, such that their respective centers are aligned along a common axis. Since the transmitter coil 2816 is fixed concentrically with the primary alignment member 1316, and the receiver coil 2810 is fixed concentrically with the secondary alignment member 1218, aligning the primary annular alignment member 1318, auxiliary annular alignment member 2770, and secondary annular alignment member 1216 along the common axis results in the transmitter coil 2816 and receiver coil 2810 also being aligned along the common axis, thereby achieving efficient wireless power transmission. For example, alternating current can be used to drive transmitter coil 2816 to generate a time-varying magnetic field, which induces a time-varying current in receiver coil 2816. Electromagnetic shielding (e.g., shields 2814 and 2812) can confine the AC field to coils 2816 and 2812. Furthermore, in embodiments where accessory device 2700 includes one or more wireless charging coils, such wireless charging coils can also be aligned with coils 2816 and 2810 along a common axis.

[0260] Some embodiments provide a gap region 2811 between the secondary magnet 2828 and the coil assembly 1210, which experiences low DC magnetic flux and low AC electromagnetic field due to the electromagnetic shielding 2812 surrounding the coil 2810. Similarly, some embodiments provide a gap region 2813 between the primary magnet 2826 and the transmitter coil assembly 1312, which experiences low DC magnetic flux and low AC electromagnetic field due to the electromagnetic shielding 2818 surrounding the transmitter coil 2816. In some embodiments, an NFC antenna coil (not shown) may be placed in gap regions 2811 and / or 2813, for example, to support the identification of the portable electronic device 1200 by the wireless charger device 1300. Similarly, an NFC antenna coil (not shown) may be placed in a corresponding region 2815 between the rear layer 2805 and the front layer 2807 of the accessory device 2700, for example, to support the identification of the accessory device 2700 by the portable electronic device 1200. Exemplary implementations of NFC antenna coils that can be placed in gap regions 2811, 2813 and / or 2815 will be described in section 5 below.

[0261] For reference Figure 28BUnderstood, the bow-shaped magnet 2828 in the secondary alignment component 1218 may have a thin axial dimension, such that the secondary alignment component 1218 does not increase the thickness of the portable electronic device 1200. For example, the axial thickness of each secondary alignment magnet 2828 may be less than or equal to the thickness of the receiver coil assembly 1210 (including the coil 2810 and the shield 2812). The primary alignment magnet 2826 may have a thicker axial dimension, which, for example, occupies all the axial space between the housing 2806 and the top cover 2808.

[0262] Similarly, each bow-shaped magnet 2872 in the auxiliary alignment component 2770 may have a thin axial dimension, allowing the overall thickness of the accessory device 2700 to remain small. The rear layer 2805 and the front layer 2807 may be planar layers. The space between layers 2805 and 2807 not occupied by the auxiliary alignment magnet 2872 may be an air gap, or partially or entirely filled with material. In some embodiments, surfaces 2803 and 2809 do not cause localized deviations in flatness due to the presence of the auxiliary alignment magnet 2872. In some embodiments, the accessory device 2700 (or its rear housing element) may be formed as a single piece of material in which the auxiliary alignment component 2770 is embedded. The auxiliary alignment magnet 2872 and the primary alignment magnet 2826 may have the same radial width; in some embodiments, the radial width of the auxiliary alignment magnet 2872 and the primary alignment magnet 2826 may be slightly larger than the radial width of the secondary alignment magnet 2828.

[0263] It should be understood that the auxiliary alignment member 2770 is optional, and a charging penetration accessory without the auxiliary alignment member can be positioned between the portable electronic device 1200 and the wireless charger device 1300. Depending on the thickness and material composition of the accessory, the primary annular alignment member 1316 and the secondary annular alignment member 1218 can still experience an attractive force sufficient to provide reliable alignment between coils 2816 and 2810. However, for DC magnets, the attractive force decreases sharply with increasing distance between the magnets, so the alignment may not be very strong. Therefore, the auxiliary alignment member 2770 can be used as a "repeater" that reduces the distance between adjacent magnets and thus increases the magnetic force pushing toward alignment.

[0264] Figure 29This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary wireless charging system 2900 according to some embodiments. The exemplary wireless charging system includes a portable electronic device 2904 (which may be, for example, portable electronic device 1200 or any other portable electronic device described herein), a wireless charger device 2902 (which may be, for example, wireless charger device 1300 or any other wireless charger device described herein), and an accessory device 2906 (which may be, for example, accessory device 2800 or any other accessory device described herein) aligned together via a magnetic alignment system 2908. The magnetic alignment system 2908 may include a primary alignment member 2916 within the wireless charger device 2902, a secondary alignment member 2918 within the portable electronic device 2904, and an auxiliary alignment member 2970 within the accessory device 2906. The primary alignment member 2916, the secondary alignment member 2918, and the auxiliary alignment member 2970 may be constructed according to any of the embodiments described herein. The portable electronic device 2904 may include a computing system 2941 coupled to a memory bank 2942. The computing system 2941 may include control circuitry configured to execute instructions stored in the memory bank 2942 to perform various functions for operating the portable electronic device 2904. The control circuitry may include one or more programmable integrated logic circuits, such as a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), etc.

[0265] The computing system 2941 may also be coupled to the user interface system 2943, the communication system 2944, and the sensor system 2945 to enable the portable electronic device 2904 to perform one or more functions. For example, the user interface system 2943 may include a display, a speaker, a microphone, an actuator for enabling haptic feedback, and one or more input devices, such as buttons, switches, capacitive screens for making the display touch-sensitive, etc. The communication system 2944 may include wireless communication components, NFC components, Bluetooth components, and / or Wi-Fi components to enable the portable electronic device 2904 to make phone calls, interact with wireless accessories, and access the Internet. In some embodiments, the communication system 2944 may include NFC reader circuitry used in conjunction with a magnetic alignment system 2906 to identify one or more alignment devices; examples will be described in Section 5 below. The sensor system 2945 may include light sensors, accelerometers, gyroscopes, temperature sensors, magnetometers, and any other type of sensor capable of measuring parameters of external entities and / or the environment.

[0266] All these electronic components require a power source to operate. Therefore, the portable electronic device 2904 also includes a battery 2946 that can release stored energy to power the electronic components of the portable electronic device 2904. To replenish the energy released to power the electronic components, the portable electronic device 2904 includes a charging circuit 2947 and an induction coil 2910 that can receive power from a wireless charger device 2902 coupled to an external power source 2922.

[0267] The wireless charger device 2902 may include a transmitter coil 2912 for generating a time-varying magnetic flux capable of inducing a current in a coil 2910 of a portable electronic device 2904. The induced current can be used by a charging circuit 2947 to charge a battery 2946. The wireless charger device 2902 may also include a computing system 2921 coupled to a communication system 2922 and a wireless charging circuit 2923. The wireless charging circuit may include circuit components for converting standard AC power (e.g., standard AC wall power) having a first set of voltage and frequency characteristics into AC power suitable for operating the coil 2910. Suitable circuit components, including rectifiers (AC to DC converters), boost circuits (DC to DC boost circuits), inverters (DC to AC converters), etc., are known in the art. The computing system 2921 may include logic circuitry (such as a microprocessor, microcontroller, FPGA, etc.) configured to control the operation of the wireless charging device 2902, such as controlling the wireless charging circuitry 2923 to use power received from an external power source 2922 to generate a time-varying magnetic flux, thereby inducing a current in the coil 2910 to charge the portable electronic device 2904. In some embodiments, the computing system 2921 may implement functionality compliant with the Qi wireless charging standard (published by the Radio Power Union).

[0268] In some implementations, the components implementing the computing system 2921 and the wireless charging circuit 2923 may be housed within the housing of the retaining coil 2912 and the primary alignment component 2916 (e.g., in...). Figure 13 and Figures 14A to 14B (within the disc-shaped housing 1302). In other embodiments, some or all of the components implementing the computing system 2921 and the wireless charging circuit 2923 may be located elsewhere, for example, in a location within the disc-shaped housing 1302. Figure 13 and Figure 14AThe cable 1304 is located at its distal end. For example, the logic circuitry implementing the computing system 2921 may be housed within the housing 1302, while the wireless charging circuit 2932 may be housed within a protective cover of the plug connector at the distal end of the cable 1304. (In this case, the cable 1304 can provide AC power to the wireless charger device 1300.) Alternatively, the logic circuitry implementing the computing system 2921 and a portion of the circuitry implementing the wireless charging circuit 2923 may be housed within the housing 1302, while the circuitry implementing other portions of the wireless charging circuit 2923 may be housed within a protective cover of the plug connector at the distal end of the cable 1304. For example, an inverter may be housed within the housing 1302, while a rectifier and boost circuitry may be housed within a protective cover. (In this case, the cable 1304 can provide DC power to the wireless charger device 1300.)

[0269] As described above, accessory device 2906 can be a passive accessory, such as a protective housing for portable electronic device 1002, and does not need to include any components other than the alignment aid 2970. In some embodiments, accessory device 2906 can be an active device. For example, accessory device 2906 may include computing system 2961 coupled to memory bank 2962 and communication system 2963. Computing system 2961 can execute instructions stored in memory bank 2962 to perform one or more functions using communication system 2963. In some embodiments, computing system 2961 may be configured to send data about the user interface theme of portable electronic device 2904 from memory bank 2962 to portable electronic device 2904 via communication system 2963, so that portable electronic device 2904 can use the data to modify its user interface. For example, accessory device 2906 may be a protective housing having a car image thereon, and memory bank 2962 has information stored for configuring the user interface to include a car theme with car-related icons, animations, and / or sounds. Therefore, when accessory device 2906 is mounted on portable electronic device 2902, computing system 2941 can receive a car-themed user interface from accessory device 2906 and modify user interface system 2943 based on the received car-themed data (e.g., change the displayed content, change the sound played to signal events, etc.). In some embodiments, accessory device 2906 may also include wireless charging component 2964, which can facilitate wireless charging between portable electronic device 2904 and wireless charging device 2902. For example, wireless charging component 2964 may include a block of magnetic material that can help guide magnetic flux through accessory device 2906. Alternatively, wireless charging component 2964 may include a pair of inductor coils, wherein one inductor coil located adjacent to wireless charging device 2902 can receive magnetic flux, which can be relayed to another inductor coil located adjacent to portable electronic device 2904, so that the received flux can be retransmitted to portable electronic device 2904. In some implementations, accessory device 2906 may include a battery (not shown) to store power received from wireless charger device 2902 for later delivery to portable electronic device 2904.

[0270] While system 2900 is described with reference to specific blocks, it should be understood that these blocks are defined for descriptive convenience and are not intended to imply a specific physical arrangement of component parts. The individual blocks do not necessarily correspond to physically different components, and the same physical components can be used to implement various aspects of multiple blocks. Blocks can be configured to perform various operations, for example, by programming a processor or providing appropriate control circuitry, and depending on how the initial configuration is obtained, the individual blocks may be reconfigurable or non-reconfigurable. Embodiments of the invention can be implemented in various devices, including electronic devices that use any combination of circuitry and software to implement wireless charging operations and / or other operations requiring physical alignment between devices.

[0271] 4. A system with a movable magnetic alignment component.

[0272] In the above embodiments, it is assumed (though not essential) that the magnetic alignment components (including annular magnetic alignment components, and, where applicable, rotating magnetic alignment components) are fixed in place relative to the device housing (or enclosure) and do not move in the axial or lateral directions. This provides a fixed magnetic flux. In some embodiments, it may be desirable for one or more magnetic alignment components to move in the axial direction. For example, in various embodiments of the invention, it may be desirable to limit the magnetic flux provided by these magnetic structures. Limiting the magnetic flux can help prevent the demagnetization of various debit and payment cards when a user may carry them with an electronic device incorporating one of these magnetic structures. However, in some cases, it may be desirable to increase the magnetic flux to increase the magnetic attraction between the electronic device and an accessory or second electronic device. Additionally, it may be desirable for one or more magnetic alignment components to move laterally. For example, the electronic device and the attachment structure or wireless device may be offset from each other in the lateral direction. The ability of the magnetic alignment components to move laterally can compensate for this offset and improve coupling between devices, specifically coupling where the coil moves with the magnetic alignment components. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention can provide a structure in which some or all of the magnets in these magnetic structures are capable of changing position or otherwise moving. An example of a magnetic structure with a movable magnet is shown in the figure below.

[0273] Figures 30A to 30C An example of a movable magnet according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this example, the first electronic device 3000 may be a wireless charger device or other device having a magnet 3010 (which may be, for example, either a toroidal or rotating magnetic alignment member as described herein). Figure 30AIn this embodiment, a movable magnet 3010 may be housed within a first electronic device 3000. The first electronic device 3000 may include a device housing 3030, a magnet 3010, and a shielding member 3020. The magnet 3010 may be located in a first position (not shown) adjacent to the non-movable shielding member 3020. In this position, the magnet 3010 may be separated from the device housing 3030. Therefore, the magnetic flux 3012 at the surface of the device housing 3030 may be relatively low, thereby protecting the magnetic device and magnetically stored information, such as information stored on a payment card. When the magnet 3010 in the first electronic device 3000 is attracted to a second magnet (not shown) in a second electronic device (not shown), the magnet 3010 may be movable, for example, it may be moved away from the shielding member 3020 to be adjacent to the device housing 3030, as shown. When the magnet 3010 is in this position, the magnetic flux 3012 at the surface of the device housing 3030 may be relatively high. This increase in magnetic flux 3012 can help attract the second electronic device to the first electronic device 3000.

[0274] This configuration allows for a large magnetic attraction to separate the magnet 3010 from the shield 3020. Therefore, these and other embodiments of the invention may include a shield divided into a shield portion and a return plate portion. For example, in Figure 30B In the middle, line 3060 can be used to indicate that shielding 3020 is divided into shielding 3040 and return plate 3050.

[0275] exist Figure 30C In this configuration, a movable magnet 3010 may be housed within a first electronic device 3000. The first electronic device 3000 may include a device housing 3030, a magnet 3010, a shield 3040, and a return plate 3050. In the absence of magnetic attraction, the magnet 3010 may be located in a first position (not shown) such that the shield 3040 is adjacent to the return plate 3050. Similarly, in this configuration, the magnetic flux 3012 at the surface of the device housing 3030 may be relatively low. When the magnet 3010 and the first electronic device are attracted to a second magnet (not shown) in a second electronic device (not shown), the magnet 3010 may be movable, for example, it may be moved away from the return plate 3050 to be adjacent to the device housing 3030, as shown. In this configuration, the shield 3040 may be separated from the return plate 3050, and the magnetic flux 3012 at the surface of the device housing 3030 may be increased. As previously mentioned, this increase in magnetic flux 3012 can help attract the second electronic device to the first electronic device 3000.

[0276] In these and other embodiments of the invention, various housings and structures can be used to guide the moving magnets. Additionally, various surfaces can be used in conjunction with these moving magnets. These surfaces can be rigid. Alternatively, these surfaces can be compliant and at least partially flexible. An example is shown in the figure below.

[0277] Figure 31A and Figure 31B A movable magnetic structure according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. In this example, the first electronic device 3100 may be a wireless charger device or other device having a first magnet 3110 (which may be, for example, either a toroidal or rotating magnetic alignment member as described herein). Figure 31A A movable first magnet 3110 in a first electronic device 3100 is shown. The first electronic device 3100 may include the first magnet 3110, a protective surface 3112, housings 3120 and 3122, a compliant structure 3124, a shield 3140, and a return plate 3150. In this figure, the first magnet 3110 is not attracted to a second magnet (not shown), and therefore the shield 3140 is magnetically attracted to or attached to the return plate 3150. In this position, the compliant structure 3124 may be extended or relaxed. The compliant structure 3124 may be formed of an elastomer, open-cell silicone foam, silicone rubber, polyurethane foam, or other foams or other compressible materials.

[0278] exist Figure 31B In this process, the second electronic device 3160 has been brought close to the first electronic device 3100. The second magnet 3170 can attract the first magnet 3110, thereby separating the shield 3140 and the return plate 3150. The housings 3120 and 3122 are compressible with the compliant structure 3124, allowing the protective surface 3112 of the first electronic device 3100 to move toward or adjacent to the housing 3180 of the second electronic device 3160. The second magnet 3170 can be held in place within the second electronic device 3160 by the housing 3190 or other structures. When the second electronic device 3160 is removed from the first electronic device 3100, the first magnet 3110 and the shield 3140 can be magnetically attracted to the return plate 3150, as... Figure 31A As shown.

[0279] Figure 32A and Figure 32B A movable magnetic structure according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. In this example, the first electronic device 3200 may be a wireless charger device or other device having a first magnet 3210 (which may be, for example, either a toroidal or rotating magnetic alignment member as described herein). Figure 32AA movable first magnet 3210 in a first electronic device 3200 is shown. The first electronic device 3200 may include the first magnet 3210, a flexible surface 3212, housing portions 3220 and 3222, a shield 3240, and a return plate 3250. In this figure, the first magnet 3210 is not attracted to the second magnet, therefore the shield 3240 is magnetically attached to or attracted to the return plate 3250. In this position, the flexible surface 3212 may be relaxed. The flexible surface 3212 may be formed of an elastomer, open-cell silicone foam, silicone rubber, polyurethane foam, or other foams or other compressible materials.

[0280] exist Figure 32B In this process, the second electronic device 3260 has been brought close to the first electronic device 3200. The second magnet 3270 can attract the first magnet 3210, thereby separating the shield 3240 and the return plate 3250 from each other. The first magnet 3210 can stretch its flexible surface 3212 toward the second electronic device 3260, thereby allowing the first magnet 3210 of the first electronic device 3200 to move toward the housing 3280 of the second electronic device 3260. The second magnet 3270 can be held in place within the second electronic device 3260 by the housing 3290 or other structures. When the second electronic device 3260 is removed from the first electronic device 3200, the first magnet 3210 and the shield 3240 can be magnetically attracted to the return plate 3250, as... Figure 32A As shown.

[0281] Figures 33 to 35 A movable magnetic structure according to an embodiment of the invention is illustrated. In this example, the first electronic device 3300 may be a wireless charger device or other device having a first magnet 3310 (which may be, for example, either a toroidal or rotating magnetic alignment member as described herein). Figure 33 In this configuration, the first magnet 3310 and the shielding member 3340 can be magnetically attracted or attached to the return plate 3350 in the first electronic device 3300. The first electronic device 3300 can be at least partially housed in the device housing 3320. Figure 34 In this process, the housing 3380 of the second electronic device 3360 can move laterally across the surface of the housing 3320 of the first electronic device 3300 in direction 3385. The second magnet 3370 in the second electronic device 3360 can begin to attract the first magnet 3310 in the first electronic device 3300. This magnetic attraction 3315 can pull the first magnet 3310 and the shield 3340 away from the return plate 3350 by overcoming the magnetic attraction 3345 between the shield 3340 and the return plate 3350. Figure 35In this process, the second magnet 3370 in the second electronic device 3360 has become aligned with the first magnet 3310 in the first electronic device 3300. The first magnet 3310 and the shield 3340 have been pulled away from the return plate 3350, thereby reducing the magnetic attraction 3345. The first magnet 3310 has been moved to be near or adjacent to the device housing 3320, thereby increasing the magnetic attraction 3315 to the second magnet 3370 in the second electronic device 3360.

[0282] like Figures 33 to 35 As shown, when the first magnet 3310 and the shield 3340 are pulled away from the return plate 3350, the magnetic attraction between the first magnet 3310 in the first electronic device 3300 and the second magnet 3370 in the second electronic device 3360 can increase. This is illustrated graphically in the figure below.

[0283] Figure 36 The diagram illustrates the normal force between a first magnet in a first electronic device and a second magnet in a second electronic device, the normal force varying with lateral offset between the first and second magnets. Figures 33 to 36 As shown, when there is a large offset between the first magnet 3310 and the second magnet 3570, the first magnet 3310 and the shield 3340 can remain attached to the return plate 3350 in the first electronic device 3300, and the magnetic attraction 3315 can be minimized. The shear force required to overcome this magnetic attraction is shown here as curve 3610. Figure 34 As shown, when the offset or lateral distance between the first magnet 3310 and the second magnet 3370 decreases, the first magnet 3310 and the shield 3340 can be pulled away from the return plate 3350 or separated from the return plate, thereby increasing the magnetic attraction 3315 between the first magnet 3310 and the second magnet 3370. This is shown here as an interruption portion 3620. Figure 35 As shown, when the first magnet 3310 and the second magnet 3370 are aligned, the magnetic attraction 3315 increases along curve 3630 to a maximum value 3640. The difference between curves 3610 and 3630 illustrates the increase in the magnetic attraction between the telephone or other electronic device (such as the second electronic device 3360) and the attachable wireless charging device or other accessory device (such as the first electronic device 3300) due to the axial movement of the first magnet 3310. It should also be noted that in this example, the first magnet 3310 does not move in the lateral direction, but in other examples, the first magnet is capable of such movement. When the first magnet 3310 is capable of lateral movement, curve 3630 may have a flat peak from zero offset to an offset that can be overcome by a series of possible lateral movements of the first magnet 3310.

[0284] Figure 37The diagram illustrates the shear force between a first magnet in a first electronic device and a second magnet in a second electronic device, which varies with lateral offset between the first and second magnets. When there is no offset between the first magnet 3310 and the second magnet 3360, there is no shear force that moves the second magnet 3370 relative to the first magnet 3310, as... Figure 33 As shown, as the offset increases, the shear force (i.e., the force attempting to realign the magnets) can increase along curve 3740. At the interruption 3710, the first magnet 3310 and the shield 3340 can return to the return plate 3350 (as shown). Figures 33 to 42 As shown), this reduces the magnetic shear force to point 3720. As the offset increases, the magnetic shear force can continue to decrease along curve 3730. The difference between curves 3730 and 3740 illustrates the increase in magnetic attraction between the telephone or other electronic device (such as the second electronic device 3360) and the attachable wireless charging device or other accessory device (such as the first electronic device 3300) due to the axial movement of the first magnet 3310. It should also be noted that in this example, the first magnet 3310 does not move in the lateral direction, but in other examples, the first magnet is capable of such movement. When the first magnet 3310 is capable of lateral movement, curve 3730 can remain zero until the lateral movement of the second magnet 3370 overcomes this series of possible lateral movements of the first magnet 3310.

[0285] In these and other embodiments of the invention, it may be desirable to further increase the shear force. Therefore, embodiments of the invention may provide various high-friction or high-static-friction surfaces, suction cups, pins, or other structures to increase the shear force. An example is shown in the figure below.

[0286] Figure 38A and Figure 38B A movable magnet coupled to a high-friction or high-static-friction surface is illustrated according to an embodiment of the invention. In this example, the first electronic device 3800 may be a wireless charger device or other device having a first magnet 3810 (which may be, for example, any of the toroidal magnetic alignment members described above). Figure 38A In this configuration, the first magnet 3810 and the shielding member 3840 can be magnetically attracted or attached to the return plate 3850 in the first electronic device 3800. The first electronic device 3800 can be housed in a device housing 3820. Some or all of the surfaces of the device housing 3820 may have a coating, layer, or other structure 3822. The structure 3822 may provide a high-friction or high-static-friction surface. Figure 38BIn this configuration, the first magnet 3810 and the shield 3840 can be attracted to a second magnet (not shown) in a second electronic device (not shown). As previously described, separating the first magnet 3810 and the shield 3840 from the return plate 3850 provides increased magnetic flux to hold the second electronic device in place relative to the first electronic device 3800. Structure 3822 can increase the frictional force or static friction between the first electronic device 3800 and the second electronic device in the lateral or shear direction.

[0287] Figure 39A and Figure 39B A movable magnet coupled to a high-friction or high-static-friction surface is illustrated according to an embodiment of the invention. In this example, the first electronic device 3900 may be a wireless charger device or other device having a first magnet 3910 (which may be, for example, either a toroidal or rotating magnetic alignment member as described herein). Figure 39A In this configuration, the first magnet 3910 and the shield 3940 can be magnetically attracted or attached to the return plate 3950 in the first electronic device 3900. The first electronic device 3900 can be housed in a device housing 3920. Some or all of the surfaces of the device housing 3920 may have a coating, layer, or other structure 3922, which in this example is present above the first magnet 3910. The structure 3922 can provide a high-friction or high-static-friction surface. Figure 39B In this configuration, the first magnet 3910 and the shield 3940 can be attracted to a second magnet (not shown) in a second electronic device (not shown). This can cause the first magnet 3910 and the shield 3940 to separate from the return plate 3850, thereby deforming structure 3922, which can be flexible or compliant. As previously described, the first magnet 3910 can provide increased magnetic flux to hold the second electronic device in place relative to the first electronic device 3900. Structure 3922 can increase the frictional force or static friction between the first electronic device 3900 and the second electronic device in the lateral or shear direction.

[0288] Figure 40A and Figure 40B A movable magnet coupled to a high-friction surface is illustrated according to an embodiment of the invention. In this example, the first electronic device 4000 may be a wireless charger device or other device having a first magnet 4010 (which may be, for example, any of the primary annular magnetic alignment components described above). Figure 40AIn this configuration, the first magnet 4010 and the shielding member 4040 can be magnetically attracted or attached to the return plate 4050 in the first electronic device 4000. The first electronic device 4000 can be housed in a device housing 4020. Some or all of the surfaces of the device housing 4020 may have a coating, layer, or other structure 4022, in this example, such a structure is present above the top surface of the first electronic device 4000. The structure 4022 can provide a high-friction or high-static-friction surface. Figure 40B In this configuration, the first magnet 4010 and the shield 4040 can be attracted to a second magnet (not shown) in a second electronic device (not shown). The first magnet 4010 and the shield 4040, separated from the return plate 4050, can be pushed upwards towards a top surface formed by structure 4022, which allows the second electronic device to engage with a high-friction surface. As previously described, the first magnet 4010 can provide increased magnetic flux to hold the second electronic device in place relative to the first electronic device 4000. Structure 4022 can increase the frictional force or static friction between the first electronic device 4000 and the second electronic device in the lateral or shear direction.

[0289] Figure 41A and Figure 41B Another movable magnet combined with a high-friction or high-static-friction surface is shown according to an embodiment of the invention. In this example, the first electronic device 4100 may be a wireless charger device or other device having a first magnet 4110 (which may be, for example, any of the toroidal magnetic alignment members described above). Figure 41A In this configuration, the first magnet 4110 and the first shield 4150 can be fixed in appropriate positions within the device housing 4120 of the first electronic device 4100. Some or all of the surfaces of the device housing 4120 may have a coating, layer, or other structure 4122. The structure 4122 may provide a high-friction or high-static-friction surface. The first electronic device 4100 may also include a movable second magnet 4191 and a second shield 4192 attachable to a sliding mechanism 4190. Figure 41B In this configuration, when the second electronic device (not shown) comes into contact with the first electronic device 4100, the sliding mechanism 4190 can be pressed down, thereby moving the second magnet 4191 away from the second shield 4192 and the top surface of the device housing 4120. The polarity of the second magnet 4191 may be opposite to that of the first magnet 4110, such that when the sliding mechanism 4190 is pressed down, the net magnetic flux at the top surface of the device housing 4120 increases. Structure 4122 can increase the frictional force or static friction between the first electronic device 4100 and the second electronic device in the lateral or shear direction.

[0290] Figure 43 yes Figure 42A partial transparent view of the movable magnet structure. The first electronic device 4200 may be housed within a device housing 4220. As previously described, the first electronic device 4200 may include an inductive charging component, a near-field communication component, or other electronic circuitry for component 4278. Return plate 4250 (in...) Figure 42 (As shown in the image) It can be attached to the crossbeam 4270.

[0291] Figure 44 yes Figure 42 Another cross-sectional side view of the electronic device. The first electronic device 4200 may be housed within a device housing 4220. As previously described, the first electronic device 4200 may include inductive charging components, near-field communication components, or other electronic circuitry for component 4278. A return plate 4250 may be attached to a crossbeam 4270. A first magnet 4210 and a shield 4240 may be attracted or attached to the return plate 4250. A high-friction or high-static-friction structure 4222 may cover some or all of the top surface of the first electronic device 4200. The crossbeam 4270 may be attached to the return plate 4250, may be anchored at point 4274, and may have a top end 4272 extending above the top surface of the device housing 4220.

[0292] Figure 45 and Figure 46 It shows the connection with the second electronic device. Figure 42 Electronic devices. In Figure 45 In this configuration, the second electronic device 4280 may include a second magnet 4290. The second electronic device 4280 may engage with the first electronic device 4200. The first electronic device 4200 may include a first magnet 4210, a shield 4240, and a return plate 4250. The return plate 4250 may be attached to a crossbeam 4270. The crossbeam 4270 may include a tip 4272 extending above the top surface of the device housing 4220. The tip 4272 may prevent the second electronic device 4280 from engaging with the high-friction or high-static-friction structure 4222 of the first electronic device 4200 before the second electronic device 4280 is aligned or nearly aligned with the first electronic device 4200. The crossbeam 4270 may be attached to the device housing 4220 at point 4274. The first electronic device 4200 may include a component 4278.

[0293] exist Figure 46In this configuration, the second electronic device 4280 can be aligned with the first electronic device 4200. When this occurs, the first magnet 4210 and the shield 4240 can be separated from the return plate 4250. This increases the magnetic flux between the second magnet 4290 in the second electronic device 4280 and the first magnet 4210 in the first electronic device 4200. Because this increases the magnetic attraction, the tip 4272 can be pressed into the device housing 4220, thereby further pushing the return plate 4250 away from the shield 4240. A high-friction or high-static-friction structure 4222 can engage with the second electronic device 4280 to increase the shear force required to separate the second electronic device 4280 from the first electronic device 4200.

[0294] In these and other embodiments of the invention, various structures can be used to constrain the movement of magnets in electronic devices. An example is shown in the figure below.

[0295] Figure 47A and Figure 47B A structure for constraining the movement of a magnet in an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this example, the first electronic device 4700 may be a wireless charger device or other device having a first magnet 4710 (which may be, for example, any of the toroidal magnetic alignment members described above). Figure 47A In this configuration, the magnet 4710, shield 4740, and structure 4770 may be accommodated by the device housing 4720 in the electronic device 4700. Structure 4770 may include a recess 4772 adaptable to a tab 4724. Figure 47B In this configuration, magnet 4710 moves together with its shield 4740 and structure 4770. When shield 4740 separates from return plate 4750, recess 4772 receives tab 4724. This restrains the movement of magnet 4710 in electronic device 4700. Electronic device 4700 may include top device housing portion 4722. Tab 4724 may be formed as part of top device housing portion 4722 or formed separately from top device housing portion.

[0296] Figure 48A and Figure 48B A structure for constraining the movement of a magnet in an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this example, the first electronic device 4800 may be a wireless charger device or other device having a first magnet 4810 (which may be, for example, any of the toroidal magnetic alignment members described above). Figure 48A In this configuration, magnet 4810, shield 4840, and return plate 4850 can be housed within device housing 4820 of electronic device 4800. Top device housing portion 4822 may include guide 4824. Guide 4824 may constrain movement of magnet 4810 within electronic device 4800. Figure 48B In this configuration, magnet 4810 and shield 4840 have been separated from return plate 4850 and guided into place by guide 4824. Guide 4824 may include one or more chamfered edges 4825. Similarly, guide 4824 may be formed together with or separately from the top device housing portion 4822 of electronic device 4800.

[0297] Figure 49A and Figure 49B A structure for constraining the movement of a magnet in an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this example, the first electronic device 4900 may be a wireless charger device or other device having a first magnet 3010 (which may be, for example, any of the toroidal magnetic alignment members described above). Figure 49A In this configuration, magnet 4910, shield 4940, and return plate 4950 can be housed within device housing 4920 of electronic device 4900. Magnet 4910 and shield 4940 can be supported by structure 4970. Structure 4970 can be attached to anchor 4974 via actuator 4972. Actuator 4972 may have hinges 4973 and 4975 at each end to allow structure 4970 to move relative to anchor 4974. Anchor 4974 can be attached to top device housing portion 4922 or device housing 4920, or formed as part of top device housing portion or device housing. Figure 49B In this configuration, magnet 4910 and shield 4940 have been separated from return plate 4950. Actuator 4972 has been repositioned, but continues to connect structure 4970 to anchor 4974. Anchor 4974 may be attached to top housing portion 4922 or housing 4920, or formed as part of top housing portion or housing.

[0298] 5. NFC circuit in a magnetic alignment system

[0299] For various applications, it may be desirable for devices with magnetic alignment components to recognize other devices being aligned. In some implementations of wireless charging standards that support communication protocols defining the communication between devices, the devices can use these protocols to communicate. For example, the Qi standard for wireless power transfer defines a communication protocol that enables a power receiving device (i.e., a device with an induction coil for receiving power wirelessly) to transmit information to a power transmitting device (i.e., a device with an induction coil for generating a time-varying magnetic field to wirelessly transmit power to another device) via a modulation scheme in its induction coil. The Qi communication protocol or similar protocols can be used to transmit information such as device identification or charging status, or requests to increase or decrease power transfer from the power receiving device to the power transmitting device.

[0300] In some implementations, a separate communication subsystem, such as a Near Field Communication (NFC) subsystem, may be provided to enable additional communication, including device identification, from tag circuitry in one device to reader circuitry in another device. (As used herein, “NFC” encompasses a variety of protocols, including known standard protocols that use near-field electromagnetic radiation to transmit data between antenna structures (e.g., coils) that are close to each other.) For example, each device having a ring-shaped magnetic alignment member may also have an NFC coil disposed inside the ring-shaped magnetic alignment member and configured to be concentric with it. Where the device also has an inductive charging coil (which may be a transmitter coil or a receiver coil), the NFC coil may be disposed in an annular gap between the inductive charging coil and the ring-shaped magnetic alignment member. In some implementations, the NFC protocol may be used to allow the portable electronic device to identify the accessory device when the respective magnetic alignment members of the portable electronic device and the accessory device are aligned. For example, the NFC coil of the portable electronic device may be coupled to NFC reader circuitry, while the NFC coil of the accessory device may be coupled to NFC tag circuitry. When the devices are close together, the NFC reader circuitry of the portable electronic device may be activated to read the NFC tag of the accessory device. In this way, the portable electronic device can obtain information (e.g., device identification) from the accessory device.

[0301] In some implementations, an NFC reader in a portable electronic device can be triggered by detecting a change in a DC (or static) magnetic field within the portable electronic device, corresponding to a change expected when aligned with an accessory device having complementary magnetic alignment components. When the expected change is detected, the NFC reader can be activated to read an NFC tag in another device (assuming another device is present).

[0302] An example of a device that combines NFC circuitry and a magnetic alignment component will now be described.

[0303] 5.1 Portable electronic devices with NFC reader circuitry

[0304] Figure 50A simplified rear view of a portable electronic device 5004 according to some embodiments is shown. In this example, the portable electronic device 5004 is a smartphone, but other devices with different form factors may be substituted. The portable electronic device 5004 may include a wireless receiver coil assembly 5012. The wireless receiver coil assembly 5012 may include a wireless receiver coil for inductive power transmission from another device and AC magnetic shielding and / or electrical shielding disposed around some or all of the surfaces of the wireless receiver coil. A secondary annular magnetic alignment member 5018 may be disposed around the wireless receiver coil assembly 5012. The secondary annular magnetic alignment member 5018 may include a plurality of bow-shaped magnets 5028 arranged in an annular configuration, as shown. Each bow-shaped magnet 5028 may have a magnetic orientation having a radial component, such as a radially inward or radially outward radial component. (Examples of secondary annular magnetic alignment members that may be included in the portable electronic device 5004 are described in sections 1 and 3 above.) In some embodiments, the secondary annular magnetic alignment member 5018 may include a gap 5001 (e.g., as referenced above). Figure 11 The gap provides space for electrical connection to the wireless receiver coil assembly 5012 without increasing the thickness of the portable electronic device 5004. In some embodiments, the portable electronic device 5004 may also include a rotation alignment member 5024, which may be implemented as described above in section 2. It should also be understood that the portable electronic device 5004 may have an opaque rear housing (as described above). Figure 50 (not shown in the image), making components such as the wireless receiver coil assembly 5012 and the secondary ring magnetic alignment component 5018 invisible to the user.

[0305] According to some embodiments, the NFC coil 5060 may be disposed in the annular gap region between the secondary annular magnetic alignment member 5018 and the wireless receiver coil assembly 5012. The NFC coil 5060 may be, for example, a single-turn twisted-pair wire (which may be made of, for example, copper or other conductive material) having terminals 5062a, 5062b connected to NFC reader circuitry (not shown). The NFC reader circuitry, which may be of a generally conventional design, may be disposed away from the secondary annular magnetic alignment member 5018 on the main logic board of the portable electronic device 5004. In some embodiments, positioning the NFC coil 5060 in the annular gap region between the secondary annular magnetic alignment member 5018 and the wireless receiver coil assembly 5012 allows shielding of the NFC coil 5060 from the AC electromagnetic field generated in the wireless receiver coil assembly 5012 and the DC magnetic field of the secondary annular magnetic alignment member 5018. For example, when coupled to the primary magnetic alignment component, shielding can be provided by a combination of the AC shielding and the closed-loop configuration of the bow magnet portion in the receiver coil assembly 5012 (as described above in sections 1 and 3).

[0306] Figure 51 An exploded view of a wireless charging and alignment assembly 5100 for a portable electronic device incorporating an NFC reader, according to some embodiments, is shown. The wireless charging and alignment assembly 5100 may include a wireless receiver coil assembly 5012 and a secondary toroidal magnetic alignment member 5018. The wireless receiver coil assembly 5012 and the secondary toroidal magnetic alignment member 5018 may be disposed on a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) layer 5101. In some embodiments, an electrical shield 5103 for the wireless receiver coil assembly 5012 may be disposed on a portion of the PSA layer 5101, for example, by depositing silver or other conductive material in a suitable pattern. As is known in the art, the electrical shield 5103 may block the AC electric field emitted by the wireless transmitter coil 5012 during operation while allowing an AC magnetic field to pass through. An NFC coil 5060 may be disposed on the PSA layer 5101 in the space between the outer edge of the electrical shield 5103 and the inner edge of the secondary toroidal magnetic alignment member 5018. The NFC coil 5060 may be, for example, a single-turn multi-stranded wire coil. Electromagnetic shielding component 5107 may be disposed above the distal surface of wireless receiver coil assembly 5012, NFC coil 5060 and secondary annular magnetic alignment component 5018, thereby shielding other components of portable electronic device 5004 from the electromagnetic fields generated by wireless receiver coil assembly 5012 and NFC coil 5060.

[0307] Figure 52 It shows the combination of Figure 51 Component 5104 Figure 50A simplified cross-sectional view of a portion of a portable electronic device 5004. As shown, a wireless charging and alignment assembly 5100 may be disposed between a front housing 5203 and a rear housing 5205 of the portable electronic device 5001. In some embodiments, the front housing 5203 may be a touchscreen display or a combination thereof. The rear housing 5205 may be made of glass or plastic or any other material that does not interfere with wireless power or data transmission or with the magnetic field of annular alignment components (such as secondary annular alignment component 5012). The assembly 5100 may be oriented such that the PSA layer 5101 and the electrical shield 5103 face the rear housing 5205, and the shielding assembly 5107 faces the front housing 5203, to enable wireless charging through the rear housing 5205.

[0308] It should be understood that the portable electronic device 5004 is exemplary, and variations and modifications thereof are possible. Components such as wireless charging and alignment components 5104 can be incorporated into various electronic devices. In some embodiments, the NFC coil 5060 and the NFC reader circuitry coupled thereto are dedicated to identifying accessory devices having a primary magnetic alignment component complementary to the secondary magnetic alignment component 5018, and the portable electronic device 5004 may include one or more additional NFC coils and associated circuitry for other applications involving NFC technology, such as point-of-sale payment transactions.

[0309] 5.2. Wireless charger devices with NFC tag circuitry

[0310] In some implementations, the NFC tag may be located in a device that includes a wireless charger and a ring alignment structure. The NFC tag may be positioned and configured such that when the wireless charger device is aligned with a portable electronic device having a complementary ring alignment structure and an NFC reader, the NFC tag can be read by the NFC reader of the portable electronic device.

[0311] Figure 53 An exploded view of a wireless charger device 5302 incorporating an NFC tag, according to some embodiments, is shown. Figure 54A A partial cross-sectional view of a wireless charger device 5302 according to some embodiments is shown. Figure 53 As shown, the wireless charger device 5302 may include a housing 5304, which may be made of plastic or metal (e.g., aluminum), and a charging surface 5306, which may be made of silicone, plastic, glass, or other materials that can transmit AC and DC magnetic fields. The charging surface 5306 may be shaped to fit within a circular opening 5303 at the top of the housing 5304.

[0312] A wireless transmitter coil assembly 5311 may be disposed within a housing 5304. The wireless transmitter coil assembly 5311 may include a wireless transmitter coil 5312 for inductive power transfer to another device and an AC magnetic shield and / or electrical shield 5313 disposed around some or all of the surface of the wireless transmitter coil 5312. Control circuitry 5314 (which may include, for example, a logic board and / or power supply circuitry) for controlling the wireless transmitter coil 5312 may be disposed at the center of the coil 5312 and / or below the coil 5312. In some embodiments, the control circuitry 5314 may operate the wireless transmitter coil 5312 according to a wireless charging protocol such as the Qi protocol or other protocols.

[0313] A primary annular magnetic alignment member 5316 may surround a wireless transmitter coil assembly 5311. The primary annular magnetic alignment member 5316 may include a plurality of bow-shaped magnetic portions arranged in an annular configuration, as shown. Each bow-shaped magnetic portion may include: an inner bow-shaped region having magnetic polarity oriented in a first axial direction, an outer bow-shaped region having magnetic polarity oriented in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction, and a non-magnetically polarized central bow-shaped region. (Examples are described in sections 1 and 3 above.) In some embodiments, the diameter and thickness of the primary annular magnetic alignment member 5316 are selected such that the bow-shaped magnetic portions of the primary annular magnetic alignment member 5316 are fitted below a lip 5309 at the top surface of the housing 5304, as shown in Figure 54A The most clearly visible feature is that each bow-shaped magnet portion can be inserted into a position below the lip 5309 before or after the magnetization of the inner and outer regions. In some embodiments, the primary annular magnetic alignment member 5316 may have a gap 5336 between two adjacent bow-shaped magnet portions. The gap 5336 may be aligned with an opening 5307 in the side surface of the housing 5304 to allow external wiring to be connected to the wireless transmitter coil 5312 and / or control circuitry 5314.

[0314] The support ring assembly 5340 may include an annular frame 5342 extending in the axial direction and a friction pad 5344 at the top edge of the frame 5342. The friction pad 5344 may be made of materials such as silicone or thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) (such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)) and may provide support and protection for the charging surface 5306. The frame 5342 may be made of materials such as polycarbonate (PC), glass fiber reinforced polycarbonate (GFPC), or glass fiber reinforced polyamide (GFPA). The frame 5342 may have an NFC coil 5364 disposed thereon. For example, the NFC coil 5364 may be a four- or five-turn solenoid coil made of copper wire or other conductive wire wound around the frame 5342. The NFC coil 5364 may be electrically connected to an NFC tag circuit (not shown), which may be part of a control circuit 5314. The relevant design principles of the NFC circuit are well known in the art, and detailed descriptions are omitted. The frame 5342 can be inserted into the gap region 5317 between the primary toroidal magnetic alignment member 5316 and the wireless transmitter coil assembly 5311. In some embodiments, the gap region 5317 is shielded by the AC shield 5313 to protect it from the AC electromagnetic field generated in the wireless transmitter coil 5312, and is also shielded by the closed-loop configuration of the bow-shaped magnet portion from the DC magnetic field of the primary toroidal magnetic alignment member 5316.

[0315] Figure 54B A partial cross-sectional view of another wireless charger device 5402 according to some embodiments is shown. The wireless charger device 5402 may be generally similar to... Figure 53 and Figure 54A The wireless charger device 5302 may include, for example, a housing 5404 made of plastic or metal (e.g., aluminum) and a charging surface 5406 made of silicone, plastic, glass, or other materials capable of transmitting AC and DC magnetic fields. The charging surface 5406 may be shaped to fit within a circular opening at the top of the housing 5404. A wireless transmitter coil assembly 5411 may be disposed within the housing 5304. The wireless transmitter coil assembly 5411 is similar to or identical to the wireless transmitter coil assembly 5311. A control circuit 5414, similar to or identical to the control circuit 5314, may be disposed, for example, below the coil assembly 5411.

[0316] A primary annular magnetic alignment member 5416 may surround the wireless transmitter coil assembly 5411. The primary annular magnetic alignment member 5416 may be similar to or identical to the primary annular magnetic alignment member 5316. In some embodiments, the diameter and thickness of the primary annular magnetic alignment member 5416 are selected such that the arcuate magnet portion of the primary annular magnetic alignment member 5416 is fitted below the lip 5409 at the top surface of the housing 5404, similar to... Figure 54A The layout shown.

[0317] A support frame 5442 may extend between the housing 5404 and the top cover 5406. The support ring assembly may be made of materials such as polycarbonate (PC), glass fiber reinforced polycarbonate (GFPC), or glass fiber reinforced polyamide (GFPA). The frame 5442 may have an NFC coil 5464 disposed on its upper surface. For example, the NFC coil 5464 may be a four- or five-turn planar coil made of concentric turns of copper wire or other conductive wire wound around the frame 5442. (Alternatively, a solenoid-wound NFC coil similar to coil 5364 may be used.) The NFC coil 5464 may be electrically connected to an NFC tag circuit (not shown), which may be part of a control circuit 5414. The frame 5442 may be inserted into the gap region between the primary toroidal magnetic alignment member 5416 and the wireless transmitter coil assembly 5411. In some implementations, the gap region 5417 is shielded by the AC shield 5413 to protect it from the AC electromagnetic field generated in the wireless transmitter coil 5412, and is also shielded by the closed-loop configuration of the bow magnet portion from the DC magnetic field of the primary toroidal magnetic alignment member 5416.

[0318] 5.3. Accessory devices with NFC tag circuitry

[0319] As described above in section 3, accessory devices such as housings for mobile phones may include auxiliary magnetic alignment components, with or without a wireless charging coil. The auxiliary magnetic alignment components can act as “repeaters” to support the use of primary and secondary magnetic alignment components, thereby aligning the wireless charging transmitter coil of the charger device with the wireless charging receiver coil of the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is attached to (e.g., inserted into) the accessory device.

[0320] In some implementations, the NFC tag circuitry and coil may be integrated into an accessory device having an auxiliary magnetic alignment component. The NFC tag can be read by an NFC reader of the portable electronic device (e.g., using the NFC coil 5060 and associated NFC reader circuitry of the portable electronic device 5004 as described above), thereby allowing the portable electronic device to identify the accessory device when it approaches and aligns with the portable electronic device.

[0321] Figure 55An example of an accessory device 5500, incorporating an auxiliary alignment component with NFC tag circuitry and a coil, is shown according to some embodiments. The accessory device 5500 may be, for example, a housing of a portable electronic device 5004 (which may be, for example, a smartphone). The accessory device 5500 may be shaped as a tray, sleeve, or other form factor to cover and protect one or more surfaces of the portable electronic device 5004, as needed. Specifically, the accessory device 5500 may have a rear panel 5502 covering the rear surface of the portable electronic device 5004. It should be understood that the rear panel 5502 does not need to cover the entire rear surface of the portable electronic device 5004; for example, a cutout area 5503 may be provided to expose the rear camera lens of the portable electronic device 5004.

[0322] The rear surface 5502 may include an auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 5570. The auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 5570 may include a plurality of bow-shaped magnets 5572 arranged in an annular configuration, as shown. Each bow-shaped magnet 5572 may include: an inner bow-shaped region having magnetic polarity oriented in a first axial direction, an outer bow-shaped region having magnetic polarity oriented in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction, and a non-magnetically polarized central bow-shaped region. (An example is described in section 3 above.) The auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 5570 may be aligned with a secondary annular magnetic alignment member 5018 of the electronic device 5002.

[0323] The NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 may be disposed inside the auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 5316. In some embodiments, all or part of the region 5505 of the rear surface 5502 inside the NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 may be a cut-out region. Figure 56 A more detailed view of an NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 according to some embodiments is shown. The NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 may include printed circuitry on a printed circuit board (PCB) 5602 (which may be, for example, a flexible PCB), the PCB having a circular outer periphery adapted to fit within the inner diameter of an auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 5572, such as... Figure 55 As shown. In some embodiments, PCB 5602 may be a disc-shaped object. In other embodiments, PCB 5602 may have a central opening 5603, which may have various shapes. In some embodiments, the size of the opening 5603 may depend on the area required to accommodate the NFC tag circuitry components.

[0324] An NFC antenna coil 5604 may be disposed on a peripheral portion of a PCB 5602. The NFC antenna coil 5604 may be an etched planar coil on the PCB 5602 and may include, for example, four or five turns of copper or other conductive material. The NFC antenna coil 5604 may be coupled to an NFC tag chip 5606 (shown in illustration 5620) and a capacitor 5608, which may be disposed on the PCB 5602 inside the NFC antenna coil 5604. The NFC tag chip 5606 may be, for example, a passively powered NFC tag chip or other passively powered NFC tag circuitry compatible with an NFC reader for portable electronic devices. The capacitor 5608 may be, for example, a multilayer ceramic capacitor supporting the operation of the NFC tag chip 5606. The specific selection and configuration of the supporting capacitor depend on the NFC tag chip and coil configuration; the relevant design principles of the NFC circuitry are well known in the art and are omitted in detail.

[0325] Generally, the NFC tag circuit 5606 and capacitor 5608 have a height extending above the PCB 5602. To provide a flat profile for the NFC tag circuit assembly 5566, an additional strip layer can be added to the PCB 5602. Figure 57 An exploded view of an NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 according to some embodiments is shown, comprising strip layers stacked on a PCB 5602 to provide a uniform height. The PCB 5602 is shown at the bottom. Strip layers 5702 and 5703 may each be polyester strip (PET) layers with pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), and each layer may be, for example, about 150 μm thick. As shown, each of the strip layers 5702 and 5703 may be shaped to match the shape of the PCB 5602 and may have a hole 5705 passing through it to accommodate the height of the NFC tag chip 5606 and capacitor 5608. The total thickness of the strip layers 5702 and 5703 may be equal to or greater than the height of the NFC tag chip 5606 and capacitor 5608. (Although two strip layers are shown, it should be understood that any number of strip layers may be used depending on the thickness of the strip layers and the height of the NFC circuit components.) The top layer 5710 may be, for example, PSA and does not need to have a hole passing through it. In some implementations, the total height of the NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 may be less than half a millimeter.

[0326] Figure 58 The following are illustrated according to some implementation schemes. Figure 55 A partial cross-sectional view of a charge penetration accessory 5500 that combines an NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 and an auxiliary alignment component 5570. The charge penetration accessory 5500 may be, for example, a tray or other housing for a portable electronic device, and Figure 58The portion shown may form part of the rear panel 5502 of the charging penetration accessory 5500. (The rear surface of the portable electronic device may be positioned adjacent to surface 5801.) The rear panel 5502 may have an internal structure with an inner layer 5804 and an outer layer 5806, which may be made of or combined with silicone, plastic, leather, or other materials permeable to DC and AC magnetic fields. In some embodiments, the inner layer 5804 and outer layer 5806 provide a flat surface for the rear panel 5502. An intermediate layer 5808 may be disposed between the inner layer 5804 and the outer layer 5806. The intermediate layer 5808 may define a recessed area 5809 to accommodate an NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 and an auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 5870. The auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 5870 may be similar to or the same as the auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 5570 or other examples described above. As shown in the figure, the height of the NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 may be less than or equal to the height of the auxiliary alignment component 5870, and the recessed area 5809 may be appropriately shaped.

[0327] like Figure 56 As shown, the NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 extends inward from the NFC coil 5604 to provide space for the NFC tag chip 5606 and the capacitor 5608. Because both the NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 and the auxiliary annular alignment member 5570 include opaque elements, it is not possible to make all portions of the rear panel 5502 of the accessory 5500 transparent to reveal the rear surface of the portable electronic device held within the accessory 5500. For aesthetic purposes, it may be desirable to minimize the width of the opaque area of ​​the rear panel 5502.

[0328] Figure 59 An example of another accessory device 5900 with auxiliary alignment components and NFC tag circuitry and coils according to some embodiments is shown. The accessory device 5900 may be, for example, a housing of a portable electronic device 5004 (which may be, for example, a smartphone). Similar to the accessory device 5500 described above, the accessory device 5900 may be shaped as a tray, sleeve, or other form factor to cover and protect one or more surfaces of the portable electronic device 5004 as needed. Specifically, the accessory device 5900 may have a rear panel 5902 covering the rear surface of the portable electronic device 5004. It should be understood that the rear panel 5902 does not need to cover the entire rear surface of the portable electronic device 5004; for example, a cutout area 5903 may be provided to expose the rear camera lens of the portable electronic device 5004.

[0329] The rear panel 5902 may include an auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 5970 and an NFC tag circuit assembly 5966. The auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 5970 may include a plurality of bow-shaped magnets 5972 arranged in an annular configuration, as shown. Each bow-shaped magnet 5972 may include: an inner bow-shaped region having magnetic polarity oriented in a first axial direction, an outer bow-shaped region having magnetic polarity oriented in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction, and a non-magnetically polarized central bow-shaped region. (An example is described above in reference section 3.) The auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 5970 may be aligned with a secondary annular magnetic alignment component 5018 of the portable electronic device 5002.

[0330] Figure 60 The following are illustrated according to some implementation schemes. Figure 59 An enlarged view of the auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 5970 and the NFC tag circuit assembly 5966. The annular alignment component 5970 may include a plurality of bow-shaped magnets 5972 arranged in a annular configuration, wherein a gap 6001 exists between selected pairs of adjacent magnets 5972. In the illustrated example, each gap 6001 may be formed by omitting the bow-shaped magnets 5972. Other techniques (examples of which are described above) may be used to produce the gaps 6001. The gaps 6001 may accommodate components of the NFC tag circuit assembly 5966, which may reduce the inward extension of the NFC tag circuit assembly 5966 and increase the component-free area in the central region 6003.

[0331] The NFC tag circuit assembly 5966 may include printed circuitry on a PCB 6002 (e.g., a flexible PCB) having a circular inner periphery and a circular outer periphery with protrusions 6022 extending into a gap 6001 in the annular magnetic alignment member 5970. An NFC antenna coil 6004 may be disposed on the circular portion of the PCB 6002. The NFC antenna coil 6004 may be an etched planar coil or a wound wire coil on the PCB 6002 and may include, for example, four or five turns of copper or other conductive material. The NFC antenna coil 6004 may be coupled to an NFC tag chip 6006 and a capacitor 6008, each NFC tag chip and capacitor being disposed on a different protrusion in the protrusions 6022 of the PCB 6002, these protrusions being located between magnets 5972 of the annular alignment member 5970. The NFC tag chip 6006 and capacitor 6008 may include standard NFC tag circuitry components as described above. It can be seen that the PCB 6002 may be compared to... Figure 56The PCB 5602 adds less width to the auxiliary annular alignment component 5970. In cases where the rear panel 5902 of the accessory 5900 is typically made of transparent material, and / or where a hole through the rear panel 5902 is provided in the region 6003 inside the NFC tag circuit assembly 5966, a narrower opaque component may be aesthetically desirable.

[0332] Figure 61 An exploded view of an NFC tag circuit assembly 5966 according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0333] PCB 6002 may have a lower PSA layer and a top strip layer 6104. Strip layer 6104 may have…

[0334] The PET layer of PSA. In some embodiments, the magnet 5972 of the annular alignment member 5960 provides a uniform height, and the strip layer 6104 can cover and encapsulate the NFC tag chip 6006 and the capacitor 6008.

[0335] As described above, the portable electronic device may include a ring-shaped magnetic alignment component and an NFC reader circuit, while each accessory device may include a ring-shaped magnetic alignment component and an NFC tag circuit. The NFC reader and tag circuit can be arranged such that when the portable electronic device is aligned with one or more accessory devices, the NFC reader circuit in the portable electronic device is brought sufficiently close to the NFC tag circuit of the accessory device to allow the NFC reader circuit to read the NFC tag, thereby allowing the portable electronic device to identify the accessory device. The NFC tag circuit can be a passive tag powered by the near-field of the NFC reader coil, so that the accessory device incorporating the NFC tag circuit does not need to have its own power supply.

[0336] Figure 62 A simplified partial cross-sectional view of a system 6200 including a wireless charger device 6202, a portable electronic device 6204, and an accessory device 6220 according to some embodiments is shown. The portable electronic device 6204 includes a secondary annular magnetic alignment member 6218 (which may be similar to or the same as secondary magnetic alignment member 5018), a wireless receiver coil assembly 6212 (which may be similar to or the same as the aforementioned wireless receiver coil assembly 5012), and an NFC coil 6260 (which may be similar to the aforementioned NFC coil 5060) connected to NFC reader circuitry (not shown). The NFC coil 6260 may be disposed between the secondary annular magnetic alignment member 6218 and the wireless receiver coil assembly 6212.

[0337] The wireless charger device 6202 includes a primary annular magnetic alignment member 6216 (which may be similar to or the same as the primary annular magnetic alignment member 5316 described above), a wireless transmitter coil assembly 6211 (which may be similar to the wireless transmitter coil assembly 5311 described above), and an NFC tag circuit assembly 6240 (which may be similar to the support ring assembly 5340 described above and may include an NFC coil 6264 and associated NFC tag circuitry (not shown)). The NFC coil 6264 may be disposed between the primary annular alignment member 6216 and the wireless transmitter coil assembly 6211.

[0338] The accessory device 6220 includes an auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 6270 (which may be similar to or the same as the auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 5570 described above) and an NFC tag circuit assembly 6266, which may be similar to or the same as the NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 or NFC tag circuit assembly 5966 described above. The NFC tag circuit assembly 6266 may be disposed inside the auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 6270.

[0339] The wireless charger device 6202 includes a primary annular magnetic alignment member 6216 (which may be similar to or the same as the primary annular magnetic alignment member 5316 described above), a wireless transmitter coil assembly 6211 (which may be similar to the wireless transmitter coil assembly 5311 described above), and an NFC tag circuit assembly 6240 (which may be similar to the support ring assembly 5340 described above and may include an NFC coil 6264 and associated NFC tag circuitry (not shown)). The NFC coil 6264 may be disposed between the primary annular alignment member 6216 and the wireless transmitter coil assembly 6211.

[0340] The accessory device 6220 includes an auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 6270 (which may be similar to or the same as the auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 5570 described above) and an NFC tag circuit assembly 6266, which may be similar to or the same as the NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 or NFC tag circuit assembly 5966 described above. The NFC tag circuit assembly 6266 may be disposed inside the auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 6270.

[0341] like Figure 62As shown, the NFC coil 6260 of portable electronic device 6204 is close to the NFC coil 6266 of accessory device 6220 and the NFC coil 6264 of wireless charger device 6202. Therefore, whenever portable electronic device 6204 is attached to either accessory device 6220 or wireless charger device 6202, the portable electronic device can read the NFC tags of both. It should be understood that at different times, accessory device 6220 may be present without wireless charger device 6202, or wireless charger device 6202 may be present without accessory device 6220. At any given time, portable electronic device 6204 can read the NFC tag of any device that happens to be present and aligned with the secondary ring magnetic alignment member 6216. In some embodiments, portable electronic device 6204 may include a low-power proximity sensor that detects when the accessory device or wireless charger device is aligned, and portable electronic device 6204 may activate its NFC reader circuitry in response to a proximity detection event. Specific examples are described below.

[0342] exist Figure 62 In the example, the NFC coil 6266 of the accessory device 6220 is disposed inside the secondary annular alignment member 6270. In some alternative embodiments, the NFC coil of the accessory device may be disposed outside the auxiliary annular alignment member. Figure 63 An example of an accessory device 6300 with auxiliary alignment components and NFC tag circuitry and coils according to some embodiments is shown. The accessory device 6300 may be, for example, a housing of a portable electronic device 5004 (which may be, for example, a smartphone). Similar to the accessory devices 5500 and 5900 described above, the accessory device 6300 may be shaped as a tray, sleeve, or other form factor to cover and protect one or more surfaces of the portable electronic device 5004 as needed. Specifically, the accessory device 6300 may have a rear panel 6302 covering the rear surface of the portable electronic device 5004. It should be understood that the rear panel 6302 does not need to cover the entire rear surface of the portable electronic device 5004; for example, a cutout area 6303 may be provided to expose the rear camera lens of the portable electronic device 5004.

[0343] The rear panel 6302 may include an auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 6370 and an NFC tag circuit assembly 6366. The auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 6370 may include a plurality of arcuate magnets 6372 arranged in an annular configuration, as shown. Each arcuate magnet 6372 may include: an inner arcuate region having magnetic polarity oriented in a first axial direction, an outer arcuate region having magnetic polarity oriented in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction, and an unpolarized central arcuate region. (An example is described in section 3 above.) The auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 6370 may be aligned with a secondary annular magnetic alignment member 5018 of the portable electronic device 5002. The NFC tag circuit assembly 6366 may be disposed outside the auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 6370 (i.e., outside the outer periphery). Although not shown in detail, it should be understood that the NFC tag circuit assembly 6366 may be constructed similarly to the NFC tag circuit assembly 5566 described above. For example, the NFC tag circuit assembly 6366 may include an annular PCB with an etched NFC coil. The peripheral extension of the PCB (e.g., at region 6371) can provide an area for mounting NFC tag circuit components (e.g., NFC tag chip and capacitor).

[0344] Figure 64 A system 6400, comprising a wireless charger device 6402, a portable electronic device 6404, and an accessory device 6420 according to some embodiments, is shown. The portable electronic device 6404 includes a secondary annular magnetic alignment member 6418 (which may be similar to or identical to secondary magnetic alignment member 5018), a wireless receiver coil assembly 6412 (which may be similar to or identical to the aforementioned wireless receiver coil assembly 5012), and an NFC coil 6460 (which may be similar to the aforementioned NFC coil 5060) connected to an NFC reader circuit (not shown). The NFC coil 6460 may be disposed between the secondary annular magnetic alignment member 6418 and the wireless receiver coil assembly 6412.

[0345] The wireless charger device 6402 includes a primary annular magnetic alignment member 6416 (which may be similar to or the same as the primary annular magnetic alignment member 5316 described above), a wireless transmitter coil assembly 6411 (which may be similar to the wireless transmitter coil assembly 5511 described above), and an NFC tag circuit assembly 6440 (which may be similar to the support ring assembly 5540 described above and may include an NFC coil 6464 and associated NFC tag circuitry (not shown)). The NFC coil 6464 may be disposed between the primary annular alignment member 6416 and the wireless transmitter coil assembly 6411.

[0346] The accessory device 6420 includes an auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 6470 (which may be similar to or the same as the auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 5570 described above) and an NFC tag circuit assembly 6466, which may be similar to or the same as the NFC tag circuit assembly 6366 described above; specifically, the NFC tag circuit assembly 6466 may be disposed outside the auxiliary annular magnetic alignment component 6470.

[0347] like Figure 64 As shown, the NFC coil 6460 of portable electronic device 6404 is close to the NFC coil 6466 of accessory device 6420 and the NFC coil 6464 of wireless charger device 6402. Therefore, whenever portable electronic device 6404 is attached to either accessory device 6420 or wireless charger device 6402, the portable electronic device can read the NFC tags of both. It should be understood that at different times, accessory device 6420 may be present without wireless charger device 6402, or wireless charger device 6402 may be present without accessory device 6420. At any given time, portable electronic device 6404 can read the NFC tag of any device that happens to be present and aligned with the secondary ring magnetic alignment member 6416. In some embodiments, portable electronic device 6404 may include a low-power proximity sensor that detects when the accessory device or wireless charger device is aligned, and portable electronic device 6404 may activate its NFC reader circuitry in response to a proximity detection event. Specific examples are described below.

[0348] 5.4. Proximity detection used to trigger the NFC reader circuit

[0349] See you again Figure 50 As described above, when a compatible accessory approaches the portable electronic device 5004, it may be desirable to selectively trigger the NFC reader circuitry within the portable electronic device 5004. Compared to periodically polling the NFC reader circuitry, proximity-based triggering of the NFC reader circuitry allows for considerable power savings and also avoids requiring the user to take any action other than bringing the device close to trigger the NFC reader circuitry.

[0350] In some implementations, an electromagnetic sensor can be used to detect when a device having a ring alignment member complementary to the secondary ring alignment member 5018 is aligned. For example, a triaxial magnetometer 5080 may be positioned within the rear housing of a portable electronic device 5004 and in a region near the secondary ring alignment member 5018, and coupled to control logic components located on the main logic board of the portable electronic device 5004. The magnetometer 5080 may be a low-power component that can be periodically polled to measure the magnetic field at the location of the magnetometer 5080. Specifically, based on periodic polling, a “baseline” magnetic field may be established, which may include contributions from the secondary ring alignment member 5018 and from any other device currently aligned with the secondary ring alignment member 5018. When a device having a ring magnetic alignment member complementary to the secondary ring magnetic alignment member 5018 (e.g., a wireless charger device 5302 or an accessory device 5500) is aligned with the secondary ring magnetic alignment member 5018, the magnetic field at the location of the magnetometer 5080 changes abruptly relative to the baseline in a specific and predictable manner. Therefore, changes in the measured magnetic field (which has a specific magnitude) (relative to a baseline) can be used to detect when a device with complementary magnetic alignment components approaches the portable electronic device 5004. In some embodiments, this change can be defined as a three-dimensional vector and can be triggered based on changes in the magnitude and / or direction of the field measured by the magnetometer 5080 to detect the approaching device. Furthermore, different types of aligned devices can result in different changes in the magnetic field measured by the magnetometer 5080. For example, as... Figure 62 As shown, the primary annular magnetic alignment member 6216 may be thicker than the auxiliary annular magnetic alignment member 6270, and this difference may result in different effects on the magnetic field measured by the magnetometer 5080. Furthermore, the changes in the magnetic field measured by the magnetometer 5018 when the wireless charger device (e.g., wireless charger device 5302) is aligned and when the portable electronic device 5004 is aligned with an accessory (e.g., accessory 5500) may differ from the changes measured when the wireless charger device (e.g., wireless charger device 5302) is aligned and when the accessory is not present. Control logic (e.g., logic circuitry located on the main logic board of the portable electronic device 5500) may periodically (e.g., several times every few milliseconds or per second) monitor the changes in the magnetic field detected by the magnetometer 5018 and may determine, based on these changes, whether devices with complementary magnetic alignment members have approached (or whether the presence of one such device is known and whether another such device has also approached). In response to determining that a device is approaching, the control logic unit may trigger the operation of the NFC coil 5060 and the associated NFC reader circuitry to read the NFC tag that may be present in the newly approaching device. It should be understood that separation (or removal from the proximity location) of an active or passive accessory device can also be detected by detecting changes in the magnetic field measured by the magnetometer 5080.

[0351] In some implementations, the portable electronic device 5004 can modify aspects of its behavior based on information in the NFC tag of the alignment device. In some implementations, the NFC tag in the accessory device can indicate attributes of the accessory device, such as its color or design style. The portable electronic device 5004 can accordingly modify its color scheme or other elements of its user interface. For example, the portable electronic device 5004 can generate a transient wash effect on the screen using a color that matches the color of the accessory device. As another example, the accessory device can be a sleeve with an opaque front panel that provides a window in the front panel to expose a portion of the portable electronic device 5004's display, and when the portable electronic device is aligned within the sleeve, the portable electronic device 5004 can switch to a mode that displays specific content (e.g., the current time or a notification) on the portion of the display aligned with the window. In some implementations, the accessory identifier can provide contextual information about the environment in which the accessory is located: for example, the docking accessory may be located in a vehicle or positioned in a specific room, and the portable electronic device 5004 can modify its behavior based on this contextual information (e.g., by switching to an in-vehicle display mode when docked in a vehicle charging dock). For example, the accessory may be a detachable assembly; when the portable electronic device 5004 (e.g., based on a magnetometer signal) detects that the accessory has been attached or detached, the portable electronic device 5004 may store information about the attachment or detachment event (e.g., location information indicating the location of the portable electronic device 5004 when attachment or detachment occurs). In some embodiments, the portable electronic device 5004 may provide the stored information to the user (e.g., providing location information indicating the location where detachment occurred to help the user locate the detached accessory). For example, accessory identification may cause the portable electronic device 5004 to launch a specific application associated with the accessory or unlock certain functions of a specific application. Based on these examples, it should be understood that many aspects of the device's behavior can be modified in response to information received from the NFC tag. For example, if the accessory is identified as a battery pack via its NFC tag, but the portable electronic device 5004 cannot draw power from the accessory, the portable electronic device 5004 may determine that the battery is depleted and may alert the user accordingly. It should be understood that many aspects of the behavior of the portable electronic device can be modified in response to detecting that a particular accessory has been attached or detached.

[0352] Figure 65A flowchart of process 6500, which can be implemented in portable electronic device 5004 according to some embodiments, is shown. In some embodiments, process 6500 can be performed iteratively when portable electronic device 5004 is powered on. At block 6502, process 6500 may, for example, use magnetometer 5080 to determine a baseline magnetic field. At block 6504, process 6500 may continue to monitor the signal from magnetometer 5080 until a change in the magnetic field is detected. At block 6506, process 6500 may determine whether the change in the magnetic field matches a change in magnitude and direction associated with the alignment of complementary magnetic alignment components. If not, the baseline magnetic field may be updated at block 6502. If, at block 6506, the change in the magnetic field matches a change in magnitude and direction associated with the alignment of complementary alignment components, then at block 6508, process 6500 may activate NFC reader circuitry associated with NFC coil 5060 to read the NFC tag of the aligned device. In some implementations, NFC tags associated with different types of devices (e.g., passive accessories and active accessories such as wireless chargers) are tuned to respond to different excitation signals from NFC reader circuitry, and information about specific changes in the magnetic field can be used to determine the specific excitation signal generated by the NFC reader circuitry. At block 6510, process 6500 may receive identification information read from the NFC tag. At block 6512, process 6500 may modify the behavior of portable electronic device 5004 based on the identification information, for example, to generate the washing effect described above. After block 6512, process 6500 may optionally return to block 6502 to provide continuous monitoring of magnetometer 5080. It should be understood that process 6500 is exemplary, and other processes may be performed as a supplement to or alternative to process 6500.

[0353] It should be understood that the NFC tag and NFC reader circuits described herein are exemplary, and variations and modifications are possible. For example, the coil design can be modified by replacing the wound-wire coil with an etched coil (or vice versa) and the solenoid coil with a flat coil (or vice versa). "Wound-wire" coils can be made using a variety of techniques, including by winding wire, by stamping the coil from a copper sheet and molding plastic over the stamped part, or by depositing wire onto a plastic part using a pin dispenser; the wire can be heated so that it embeds into the softened plastic. Etched coils can be made by coating the surface with metal and etching away unwanted metal. The number of turns in various NFC coils can be modified for specific applications. The choice between a wound-wire coil or an etched coil for a particular device can depend on a variety of design considerations. For example, in a device with an internal logic board, a wound-wire NFC coil may terminate at the logic board; in the absence of a logic board, an etched coil simplifies coil termination. Other design considerations may include the coil's Q factor (wound coils can provide a higher Q in a smaller space) and / or ease of assembly.

[0354] Furthermore, in devices with NFC tag circuitry that also possess active circuitry (such as wireless charger devices with active circuitry for controlling charging behavior), the NFC tag circuitry is not limited to passive tags; active NFC tag circuitry can be provided to enable bidirectional communication with compatible portable electronic devices. For example, active NFC circuitry in portable electronic devices and wireless charger devices can be used to support the delivery of firmware updates to the wireless charger device.

[0355] The proximity detection technology can also be modified. For example, different types of magnetometers (e.g., a single-axis magnetometer) can be used, or multiple magnetometers positioned at different locations relative to the magnetic alignment component can be used. In some implementations, a Hall effect sensor can be used instead of a magnetometer, but this may increase false positives because Hall effect sensors typically only indicate change or no change without measuring changes in magnitude or direction. It should also be understood that proximity detection, as described herein, can be used for purposes other than triggering or replacing NFC reader circuitry.

[0356] 6. An exemplary device incorporating a magnetic alignment component

[0357] 6.1 Wireless charging device

[0358] For example, see the above text. Figure 13 and Figure 53 Figures 5 to 54 illustrate examples of wireless charging devices (or wireless chargers) incorporating a ring-shaped magnetic alignment component. For example, Figure 66 An exploded view of a wireless charger device 6600 according to some embodiments is shown, and Figure 67 A simplified partial cross-sectional view of a wireless charger device 6600 according to some embodiments is shown. The wireless charger device 6600 is similar to the wireless charger device 1300 described above and may incorporate magnetic alignment components (e.g., a primary annular alignment component as described above) and other features related to optimizing charging performance.

[0359] The wireless charger device 6600 may have a two-piece disc-shaped housing, comprising a cover 6602 and a housing 6606. The cover 6602, providing the charging surface for the wireless charger device 6600, may be made of polycarbonate or other plastic and may be located on the proximal side (…). Figure 66 and Figure 67 The top side of the cover 6602 is coated with a soft silicone resin or similar material to provide a durable surface. Other materials that can transmit electromagnetic fields may also be used. In some embodiments, the proximal surface of the cover 6602 may be a low-friction surface (e.g., textured silicone resin) because the wireless charger device 6600 can rely on magnetism rather than friction to maintain alignment with the device to be charged. The housing 6606 may be made of aluminum, other conductive materials, or plastic materials. Figure 67 As most clearly seen, housing 6606 may include a rear housing 6601, sidewalls 6603, and a pendant lip 6605 having a recessed protrusion 6609 on which a top cover 6602 may rest. The top cover 6602 may have a slight offset (e.g., 150 μm) above the upper surface of the lip 6605 to prevent iron-containing particles that can adhere to the lip 6605 from scratching the device when placed close to the surface of the top cover 6602. In some embodiments, a suitable sealing material may be used to seal the top cover 6602 to the recessed protrusion 6609. Housing 6606 may include an opening 6607 through the sidewalls 6603 to allow cables (e.g., wires) to be connected between the interior and exterior of the wireless charger device 6600.

[0360] The annular magnetic alignment component 6616 may include bow-shaped magnets 6626 disposed on the annular DC shield 6614. The magnetic alignment component 6616 may be an implementation of any of the primary annular alignment components described above. For example, each bow-shaped magnet 6626 may have a quadrupole configuration, comprising: an inner bow-shaped region having magnetic polarity oriented in a first axial direction, an outer bow-shaped region having magnetic polarity oriented in a second axial direction opposite to the first direction, and a central unmagnetized region between the inner and outer bow-shaped regions. In some embodiments, the DC shield 6614 may be segmented into, for example, four bow-shaped segments, and each segment of the DC shield 6614 may have one or more bow-shaped magnets 6626 mounted thereon. These segments may be individually inserted into the housing 6606 such that each segment fits below the lip 6605, and these segments are adjacent to each other (adjacent or having small gaps to accommodate manufacturing tolerances). Reference surface features may be provided on the inner surface of the housing 6606 to facilitate proper positioning of each segment. A gap 6617 large enough to accommodate an electrical connection path can be provided between two adjacent segments of the annular magnetic alignment member 6616, and the gap 6617 can be aligned with an opening 6607 in the housing 6606. To maximize the magnetic alignment force applied by the annular magnetic alignment member 6616 to a portable electronic device positioned adjacent to the top surface of the cover 6603, the annular magnetic alignment member 6616 can be positioned such that the proximal surface of the magnet 6626 is adjacent (e.g., in contact) to the inner surface of the lip 6605. In some embodiments, the DC shield 6614 may rest on the inner surface of the rear housing 6601 of the housing 6606, and the annular magnetic alignment member 6616 may extend to the full height of the inner sidewall 6603, such that the proximal surface of the magnet 6626 is adjacent to the inner surface of the lip 6605. In other embodiments, the annular magnetic alignment member 6616 may be shorter than the inner sidewall 6603, and the spacer 6615 (in...) Figure 67 (As shown in the diagram) It can be positioned between the DC shield 6614 and the rear housing 6601, such that the magnet 6626 is adjacent to the underside of the lip 6605. In any case, an adhesive (not shown) may be used to hold the magnetic alignment component 6616 (or its sector) in place.

[0361] The charging coil assembly 6612 may include a coil 6620, an electrical shield 6622, electromagnetic shields 6626 and 6628, and a gasket 6624. The coil 6620 may be a coil of wound copper wire having terminals facing the center of the coil, the coil having a proximal surface oriented toward the top cover 6601 and opposing distal surfaces. The upper electromagnetic shield 6626 and the lower electromagnetic shield 6628 may be made of a ferromagnetic material (e.g., MnZn). The upper electromagnetic shield 6626, providing primary field shaping for the coil 6620, may be contoured to surround the distal surface and outer side of the coil 6620, and may have a slit 6627 to provide space for wire extending from the outer edge of the coil 6620 to terminal points in the central region of the coil 6620. The lower electromagnetic shield 6628, which acts as a spacer for the main logic board 6632, may be flat and shaped to be located below a coil 6620 having grooves to receive wire extending from the outer edge of the coil 6620 to terminal points in the central region of the coil 6620. The lower electromagnetic shield 6628 may be fixedly grounded to the housing 6606. In some alternative embodiments, a plastic gasket may be used to replace the lower electromagnetic shield 6628. In other alternative embodiments, the upper electromagnetic shield 6626 and the lower electromagnetic shield 6628 may be formed from a single ferrite material piece. An electrical shield 6622 may be positioned above the proximal surface of the coil 6620. The electrical shield 6622 may be made of a flexible printed circuit board patterned with a conductive material to block electric fields but allow magnetic fields to pass through. The electrical shield 6622 may include peripheral conductive protrusions that can contact the housing 6606 to provide grounding. The pad 6624 may be made of polycarbonate material and may be used to provide a uniform height on the proximal surface of the charging coil assembly 6612, thereby helping to support the top cover 6602.

[0362] The support ring assembly 6640 can be positioned between the annular magnetic alignment member 6616 and the coil assembly 6612 (as in...). Figure 67 (Most clearly seen). The support ring assembly 6640 can be referenced above. Figure 53 A specific implementation of the support ring assembly 5340 as shown in Figure 54. For example, the support ring assembly 6640 may include a ring frame 6642 and an NFC coil 6664. The ring frame 6642 may be made of, for example, glass-reinforced polycarbonate or other plastics. The NFC coil 6664 may be, for example, a 4-turn or 5-turn wound copper coil. The NFC coil 6664 may be coupled to NFC tag circuitry that may be disposed on a main logic board 6632. The NFC coil 6664 and the associated tag circuitry can be used for device identification, as described above in section 5.

[0363] The main logic board 6632 may be disposed on the central portion of the rear outer shell 6601 of the housing 6606 and secured in place with pressure-sensitive adhesive 6634. The main logic board 6632 may include contact pads for connection to external wiring through openings 6607 in the housing 6606 and additional grounding contacts for grounding the housing 6606 and the electrical shield 6622. The main logic board 6632 may also include circuitry for controlling the operation of the coil 6620. For example, depending on the embodiment, the main logic board 6632 may be coupled to receive DC power via the contact pads and may include power supply circuitry (e.g., boost circuitry and inverter) for driving the coil 6620. Alternatively or additionally, the main logic board 6632 may include logic circuitry (e.g., microcontroller, ASIC, FPGA, etc.) to monitor the behavior of the coil 6620 and, based on that monitoring, control the current supplied to the coil 6620. Examples of control logic for operating a wireless charging coil are known in the art; for example, the logic circuitry may implement functionality compliant with the Qi wireless charging standard. In some implementations, the main logic board 6632 may further include NFC tag circuitry coupled to the NFC coil 6664. In some implementations, the logic circuitry, power supply circuitry, and / or NFC tag circuitry may be implemented as integrated circuits mounted on the main logic board 6632, and the integrated circuits may be covered by a shielding housing to prevent electrical interference.

[0364] In some implementations, the thermal performance of the wireless charger device 6600 can be improved by placing some or all of the power circuitry outside the housing 6606. For example, Figure 68 An exploded view of a cable assembly 6800, which can be connected to a wireless charger device 6600 and has an integrated power circuit, is shown according to some embodiments. (Parts of the wireless charger device 6600 are shown, specifically housing 6606 and annular alignment member 6616, to facilitate understanding of the connection.) The cable assembly 6800 may include a cable 6802, which may have any desired length and may include multiple wires (or other electrical conductors) electrically insulated from each other to carry power, ground, and data signals. The cable 6802 has a proximal end 6804 that is controllably coupled to the wireless charger device 6600. For example, the proximal end 6804 of the cable 6802 may be inserted through an opening 6607 in housing 6606 and secured using a crimp 6806. In various embodiments, the crimp 6808 may be soldered to housing 6606 or DC shield 6614.

[0365] Cable 6802 has a distal end 6808 that is controllably coupled to a protective housing assembly 6810. The protective housing assembly 6810 may include a protective housing 6812 made of plastics such as polycarbonate, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), etc. A crimping member 6814 (e.g., made of stainless steel) secures the distal end 6808 of cable 6802 to the interior of the protective housing 6812.

[0366] Circuit board 6822 may be housed within protective housing 6812. Circuit board 6822 may include power supply circuitry such as a DC boost circuit and optionally an inverter. Circuit board 6822 may also include logic circuitry for controlling the operation of the power supply circuitry. Similar to the main logic board 6632 described above, the power supply circuitry and / or logic circuitry may be implemented using integrated circuits mounted on the surface of logic board 6632. Circuit board 6822 may be connected to connector 6824, which may be, for example, a USB-C plug connector or other standard connector. Connector 6824 may be removably connected to an external power source (not shown), such as a USB-C adapter module that can be plugged into a standard power outlet.

[0367] An electromagnetic interference (EMI) housing 6818 may be arranged inside the protective housing 6812 around the circuit board 6822. The EMI housing 6818 may be made of a copper alloy (e.g., brass) or other conductive material and may reduce electromagnetic interference that may be caused by the operation of circuitry on the circuit board 6822. In some embodiments, a crimp member 6814 may be laser-welded to the EMI housing 6818. Electrically insulating components such as a board support 6820 and a clamshell member 6826 may be used to provide electrical isolation between the circuit board 6822 and the EMI housing 6818. A panel 6828 may be disposed above the distal end of the circuit board 6822 and secured to the protective housing 6812, such that a connector 6824 protrudes through an opening in the panel 6828. In some embodiments, the interior of the protective housing 6812 may be filled with a thermally conductive potting compound before the panel 6828 is attached to improve heat transfer and keep it away from the circuit board 6822.

[0368] In some embodiments, all power circuitry may be housed on circuit board 6822, and cable 6802 may carry AC power to wireless charger device 6600. In these embodiments, main logic board 6632 within wireless charger device 6600 may couple the AC wires of cable 6802 to coil 6620. In other embodiments, circuit board 6822 may include a portion of the power circuitry (e.g., a DC boost circuit), while other portions of the power circuitry (e.g., an inverter) are housed on main logic board 6632. It should be understood that the power circuitry can generate significant amounts of heat, and placing some or all of the power circuitry within protective enclosure assembly 6810 rather than within housing 6606 may reduce the heat generated within housing 6606. In some embodiments, logic circuitry on main logic board 6632 may locally monitor (e.g., based on signals from circuit board 6822) the temperature within protective enclosure assembly 6810 and (e.g., using the Qi communication protocol) within the portable electronic device being charged, and may reduce the charging current if the temperature at any monitored location exceeds a preset upper limit. Providing high thermal conductivity in the protective shield assembly 6810 prevents the protective shield assembly 6810 from becoming a limiting factor for charging performance.

[0369] Regardless of the location of the power supply circuitry, the main logic board 6632 within the housing 6606 may include logic circuitry for: monitoring the behavior of the coil 6620 and controlling any power supply circuitry that may be located on the main logic board 6632, and / or sending control signals to the board 6822 via data lines included in the cable 6802 (e.g., implementing I...). 2 (C or other point-to-point communication protocols). The circuit board 6822 may include logic circuitry to respond to control signals received from the main logic board 6632, for example, by controlling power supply circuitry located on the circuit board 6822.

[0370] It should be understood that the wireless charger device 6600 and the associ...

Claims

1. A portable electronic device for use with a second device, the portable electronic device comprising: A housing having an interface surface; An induction coil, disposed within the housing and having an axis perpendicular to the interface surface, is configured to wirelessly transmit power through the interface surface; An annular magnetic alignment component is disposed within the housing, coaxial with the induction coil, and outside the induction coil, such that an annular gap is defined between the annular magnetic alignment component and the induction coil. The annular magnetic alignment component includes a plurality of sectors, each sector having a magnetic orientation in a radial direction that is rotationally symmetrical about the axis, such that all sectors have the same radial orientation. as well as A near-field communication (NFC) coil is disposed within the annular gap and coaxial with the induction coil. The NFC coil is configured to wirelessly exchange signals with the NFC coil of the second device through the interface surface when the annular magnetic alignment member is aligned with a second annular magnetic alignment member in the second device. The second annular magnetic alignment member has a quadrupole magnetic configuration.

2. The portable electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the NFC coil is coupled to the NFC reader circuit.

3. The portable electronic device of claim 1, wherein each sector of the annular magnetic alignment component comprises one or more bow-shaped magnets, each bow-shaped magnet having a magnetic polarity oriented in a radial direction.

4. The portable electronic device of claim 1, wherein the annular magnetic alignment member includes a gap between two sectors in the sector.

5. The portable electronic device of claim 4, wherein the conductive path connecting the NFC coil to the NFC reader circuit passes through the gap.

6. The portable electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising: A rotating alignment component, the rotating alignment component including a magnet disposed inside the housing and outside the annular magnetic alignment component.

7. A wireless charging device for use with a portable electronic device, the wireless charging device comprising: A housing having a charging surface; An induction coil is disposed within the housing and has an axis perpendicular to the charging surface, the induction coil being configured to wirelessly transmit power through the charging surface; An annular magnetic alignment component is disposed within the housing, coaxial with the induction coil, and outside the induction coil, such that an annular gap is defined between the annular magnetic alignment component and the induction coil. The annular magnetic alignment component includes a plurality of sectors, each sector including one or more arcuate magnets, each arcuate magnet comprising: An internal arcuate region having a magnetic polarity oriented in a first axial direction, the first axial direction being the same for each sector; An outer arcuate region having a magnetic polarity oriented in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction; and A non-magnetized central bow-shaped region is disposed between the inner bow-shaped region and the outer bow-shaped region; and A near-field communication (NFC) coil is disposed within the annular gap and coaxial with the induction coil. The NFC coil is configured to wirelessly exchange signals with the NFC coil of the portable electronic device via the charging surface when the annular magnetic alignment member is aligned with a second annular magnetic alignment member in the portable electronic device. The second annular magnetic alignment member has a radial magnetic orientation.

8. The wireless charging device according to claim 7, further comprising: An annular magnetic shield is disposed on the distal surface of the annular magnetic alignment component.

9. The wireless charging device according to claim 7, wherein the NFC coil is coupled to the NFC tag circuit.

10. The wireless charging device according to claim 7, wherein the first axial direction has a south magnetic pole facing the charging surface.

11. The wireless charging device of claim 7, wherein the annular magnetic alignment member includes a gap between two sectors in the sector.

12. The wireless charging device of claim 11, wherein the conductive path connected to the induction coil passes through the gap.

13. An accessory device for use with a portable electronic device, the accessory device comprising: A housing having an interface surface; A ring-shaped magnetic alignment component is disposed within the housing and has an axis perpendicular to the interface surface. The ring-shaped magnetic alignment component includes multiple sectors, each sector including one or more arc-shaped magnets, each arc-shaped magnet comprising: An internal arcuate region having a magnetic polarity oriented in a first axial direction, the first axial direction being the same in each sector; An outer arcuate region having a magnetic polarity oriented in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction; and A non-magnetized central bow-shaped region is disposed between the inner bow-shaped region and the outer bow-shaped region; and A near-field communication (NFC) coil is disposed within the housing and inside and coaxial with the annular magnetic alignment member. The NFC coil is configured to wirelessly exchange signals with the NFC coil of the portable electronic device via the interface surface when the annular magnetic alignment member is aligned with a second annular magnetic alignment member in the portable electronic device. The second annular magnetic alignment member has a radial magnetic orientation.

14. The accessory device of claim 13, wherein the NFC coil is coupled to the NFC tag circuit.

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