Dual-receiver detection device and method for wireless power transmission system

Abstract

A method for a wireless power transmission system includes: applying multiple detection signals to multiple receivers; receiving multiple echo signals from the multiple receivers; comparing the multiple echo signals with a predetermined echo signal distribution pattern; determining the number of multiple receivers; and sequentially charging the multiple receivers using a movable transmitter. This application also provides a dual-receiver detection device. The method and device of this application can automatically align the receivers of a mobile phone, improving charging efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a dual-receiver detection device and method, and in particular, to a dual-receiver detection device and method for a wireless power transmission system. Background Art

[0002] With technological advancements, wireless power transmission has become an effective and convenient mechanism for providing power or charging batteries in mobile devices, such as mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, MP3 players, and / or other similar devices. A wireless power transmission system typically includes a primary-side transmitter and a secondary-side receiver. The primary-side transmitter and the secondary-side receiver are magnetically coupled via magnetic coupling. The magnetic coupling can be implemented as a loosely coupled transformer having a primary-side coil formed in the primary-side transmitter and a secondary-side coil formed in the secondary-side receiver.

[0003] The primary-side transmitter may include a power conversion unit, such as a primary side of a power converter. The power conversion unit is coupled to a power source and is capable of converting electrical energy into a wireless power signal. The secondary-side receiver may receive the wireless power signal via the loosely coupled transformer and convert the received wireless power signal into electrical energy suitable for a load.

[0004] In a wireless power transfer system, the transmitter can be located inside a charging pad, and the receiver can be located inside a mobile phone. After placing the mobile phone on the charging pad, energy can be transferred from the charging pad to the mobile phone if the mobile phone's receiver coil is in close proximity with the charging pad's transmitter coil. However, mobile phone users often may not be able to precisely align their mobile phone's receiver coil with the charging pad's transmitter coil. This misalignment reduces system efficiency. To provide maximum functionality while ensuring ease of use, a removable transmitter can be used to precisely align the charging pad's transmitter coil with the mobile phone's receiver coil.

[0005] As wireless power charging has become widely adopted in the mobile phone industry, charging pads configured to charge multiple mobile phones have become increasingly important. There is a need to provide a simple and reliable receiver detection apparatus and method that provides a fast and accurate solution under various operating conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0006] These and other problems are generally solved or avoided, and technical advantages are generally achieved, by the dual-receiver detection apparatus and method for a wireless power transfer system provided by the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0007] According to one embodiment, a method for a wireless power transmission system includes: applying multiple detection signals to multiple receivers; receiving multiple echo signals from the multiple receivers; comparing the multiple echo signals with a predetermined echo signal distribution pattern; determining the number of the multiple receivers; and sequentially charging the multiple receivers using a movable transmitter.

[0008] According to another embodiment, a method for a wireless power transmission system includes: receiving a plurality of echo signals via a detection grid on a movable transmitter; comparing the plurality of echo signals with a predetermined echo signal distribution pattern; determining whether a plurality of receivers are in parallel or misaligned; and sequentially charging the plurality of receivers using the movable transmitter.

[0009] According to yet another embodiment, a dual-receiver detection apparatus includes a movable transmitter, a detection grid positioned above the movable transmitter, and a controller configured to apply a plurality of detection signals to a plurality of receivers positioned on the detection grid, receive a plurality of echo signals from the plurality of receivers, compare the plurality of echo signals with a predetermined echo signal distribution pattern, and determine a number of the plurality of receivers.

[0010] The foregoing has generally outlined the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure so that the subsequent detailed description of the present application may be better understood. Additional features and advantages that form the subject matter of the claims of the present application will be described hereinafter. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosed concepts and specific embodiments may be readily used as a basis for modifying or designing other structures or processes to achieve the same objectives of the present application. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] For a better understanding of the technical solutions and effects of the present application, reference is now made to the following description and the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1 A block diagram of a wireless power transmission system according to various embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0013] Figure 2 A top view of a charging plate according to various embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0014] Figure 3 shows a top view of a detection grid according to various embodiments of the present application;

[0015] Figure 4 A first placement of two receivers on a detection grid according to various embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0016] Figure 5 A second placement of two receivers on a detection grid according to various embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0017] Figure 6 A third placement of two receivers on a detection grid according to various embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0018] Figure 7 A fourth placement of two receivers on a detection grid according to various embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0019] Figure 8 shows a state machine for searching the location of a receiver of various embodiments of the present application;

[0020] Figure 9 Another state machine for searching for the location of a receiver of various embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0021] Figure 10-11 A flow chart illustrating a method for detecting two receivers according to various embodiments of the present application is shown.

[0022] Figure 12 The control of various embodiments of the present application is shown Figure 1 A flow chart of the wireless power transmission system shown; and

[0023] Figure 13 Showing the control of various embodiments of the present application Figure 1 Another flow chart of the wireless power transmission system is shown.

[0024] Corresponding numerals and symbols in the different figures generally refer to corresponding parts unless otherwise indicated.The figures are drawn to clearly illustrate the relevant aspects of the various embodiments and are not necessarily drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The making and using of the preferred embodiments of the present application are discussed in detail below. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure provides many applicable inventive concepts that can be embodied in a variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed are merely illustrative of specific ways to make and use the present application and do not limit the scope of the present application.

[0026] This application will be described with reference to preferred embodiments in a specific context, namely, a dual-receiver detection apparatus and method for a wireless power transmission system. However, the present invention may also be applied to various power conversion devices in wireless power transmission systems. Various embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0027] Figure 1FIG1 shows a block diagram of a wireless power transmission system in various embodiments of the present application. The wireless power transmission system 100 includes a power converter 104 cascaded between an input power source 102 and a load 114 and a wireless power transmission device 101. The wireless power transmission device 101 includes a transmitter 110 and a receiver 120. Figure 1 As shown, the transmitter 110 includes a cascade-connected transmitter circuit 107 and a transmitter coil L1. The input of the transmitter circuit 107 is coupled to the output of the power converter 104. The receiver 120 includes a cascade-connected receiver coil L2 and a rectifier 112. The output of the rectifier 112 is coupled to the load 114.

[0028] When the receiver 120 is placed close to the transmitter 110, the transmitter 110 is magnetically coupled to the receiver 120 via a magnetic field. The transmitter coil L1, which is part of the transmitter 110, and the receiver coil, which is part of the receiver 120, form a loosely coupled transformer 115. The transmitter coil L1 (part of the transmitter 110) and the receiver coil L2 (part of the receiver 120) form a loosely coupled transformer 115. Thus, electrical energy can be transferred from the transmitter 110 to the receiver 120.

[0029] In some embodiments, the transmitter 110 may be located in a charging pad. The transmitter coil is placed below the upper surface of the charging pad. The receiver 120 may be embedded in a mobile phone. When the mobile phone is placed close to the charging pad, magnetic coupling between the transmitter coil and the receiver coil is established. In other words, through the power transfer between the transmitter 110 and the receiver 120, the transmitter coil and the receiver coil may form a loosely coupled transformer. The coupling strength between the transmitter coil L1 and the receiver coil L2 may be quantified as a coupling coefficient k. In some embodiments, k ranges from approximately 0.05 to approximately 0.9.

[0030] In some embodiments, after the transmitter coil L1 and the receiver coil L2 establish a magnetic coupling connection, the transmitter 110 and the receiver 120 may form an electrical energy system, through which electrical energy from the input power source 102 may be wirelessly transmitted to the load 114 .

[0031] The input power source 102 may be a power adapter for converting mains voltage into direct current (DC) voltage. In other embodiments, the input power source 102 may be a renewable power source, such as a solar panel. Furthermore, the input power source 102 may also be an energy storage device, such as a rechargeable battery, a fuel cell, and / or other similar energy storage devices.

[0032] The load 114 may represent the power consumed by a mobile device (e.g., a mobile phone) coupled to the receiver 120. In other embodiments, the load 114 may refer to a rechargeable battery and / or multiple rechargeable batteries connected in series or in parallel coupled to the output of the receiver 120.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the transmitter circuit 107 may include multiple primary side switches of a full-bridge converter. The full bridge may also be referred to as an H-bridge. In other embodiments, the transmitter circuit 107 may include multiple primary side switches of other types of converters, such as multiple primary side switches of a half-bridge converter, a push-pull converter, etc. Figure 2 The structure of the transmitter circuit 107 is described in detail.

[0034] It should be noted that the converters described above are only some examples. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other suitable power converters, such as a power converter based on a Class E topology (eg, a Class E amplifier), may also be used.

[0035] The transmitter circuit 107 may further include a resonant capacitor. The resonant capacitor and the magnetic induction of the transmitter coil may form a resonant circuit. Depending on design requirements and different applications, the resonant circuit may further include a resonant inductor. In some embodiments, the resonant inductor may be implemented using an external inductor. In other embodiments, the resonant inductor may be implemented using connecting wires.

[0036] The receiver 120 includes the receiver coil L2. When the receiver 120 is placed near the transmitter 110, the receiver coil L2 is magnetically coupled to the transmitter coil L2. Thus, electrical energy can be transferred to the receiver coil and further transmitted to the load 114 through the rectifier 112. The receiver 120 may include a secondary resonant capacitor.

[0037] The rectifier 112 converts the AC polarity waveform received from the receiver coil L2 into a unipolar waveform. In some embodiments, the rectifier 112 can be a synchronous rectifier including four switches. In other embodiments, the rectifier 112 includes a full-wave diode bridge and an output capacitor.

[0038] Furthermore, the synchronous rectifier can be formed by any controllable device, such as a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) device, a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) device, a super junction transistor (SJT) device, an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) device, a gallium nitride (GaN)-based power device, etc.

[0039] The power converter 104 is coupled between the input power source 102 and the input of the wireless power transmission device 101. Depending on design requirements and different applications, the power converter 104 can include a variety of different configurations. In some embodiments, the power converter 104 can be a non-isolated power converter, such as a buck converter. In some embodiments, the power converter 104 can be a linear regulator. In some embodiments, the power converter 104 can be an isolated power converter, such as a forward converter.

[0040] The above-described implementation of the power converter is merely an example and should not be used to limit the scope of the claims. Those skilled in the art will appreciate other variations, alternatives, and modifications. In addition, depending on different applications and design requirements, the power converter 104 may be an optional component of the wireless power transmission system 100. In other words, the input power source 102 may be directly connected to the transmitter circuit 107 without the power converter 104.

[0041] Figure 1 A receiver is shown magnetically coupled to a transmitter. Depending on the application, multiple receivers may be magnetically coupled to a single transmitter. For example, the transmitter may be located in a charging pad, the top surface of which is capable of accommodating multiple mobile phones (e.g., two mobile phones). Each mobile phone includes a receiver, each having a configuration similar to that of a Figure 1 The structure shown. The charging plate is configured to charge multiple mobile phones sequentially using a movable transmitter. Figure 2-9 Describe the structure and working principle of the charging plate.

[0042] Figure 2 FIG2 shows a top view of a charging pad according to various embodiments of the present application. The charging pad 202 includes a movable transmitter 204. In some embodiments, the movable transmitter 204 includes Figure 1 The transmitter coil L1 is shown in FIG. According to different applications and design requirements, the entire transmitter 110 or a portion thereof can be implemented on the movable transmitter 204. The movable transmitter 204 can move along a first direction indicated by a first dotted line 222 and a second direction indicated by a second dotted line 224. Figure 2As shown, the first direction is orthogonal to the second direction.

[0043] In use, a first receiver 212 and a second receiver 214 can be placed on the charging pad 202. In some embodiments, the first receiver 212 can be embedded in a first mobile phone, and the second receiver 214 can be embedded in a second mobile phone. The charging pad provides power to the first and second mobile phones through wireless charging between the removable transmitter 204 and the receivers 212 and 214.

[0044] The charging plate 202 may further include a detection grid and a controller (not shown). The detection grid includes a plurality of detection coils. The controller is used to apply a plurality of detection signals using the plurality of detection coils. After one or more receivers are placed on the charging plate, a plurality of echo signals will be reflected back from the one or more receivers. The controller is used to receive a plurality of echo signals from the one or more receivers. The controller compares the plurality of echo signals with a predetermined echo signal distribution pattern, and based on the comparison result, the controller determines the number of the plurality of receivers placed on the charging plate. Throughout the specification, the charging plate 202 may be referred to alternatively as a dual-receiver detection device.

[0045] Furthermore, after determining the number of receivers placed on the charging pad, the controller can determine the location of the detected receiver based on a comparison of the multiple echo signals with a predetermined echo signal distribution pattern. The controller is further configured to control the movement of the movable transmitter 204 after detecting the location of the receiver to effectively charge the detected receiver. The controller is configured to use a two-dimensional movement device to move the movable transmitter 204 toward a specific location. In some embodiments, the two-dimensional movement device is disposed within the charging pad 202, i.e., the charging pad 202 may further include the two-dimensional movement device. The two-dimensional movement device includes a first motor for moving the movable transmitter 204 in a first direction 222 (i.e., driving the movable transmitter 204 in the first direction 222) and a second motor for moving the movable transmitter 204 in a second direction 224 (i.e., driving the movable transmitter 204 in the second direction 224). By moving the movable transmitter 204, the transmitter coil of the movable transmitter 204 is aligned with the target receiver coil. In this way, the movable transmitter can charge the detected receivers sequentially.

[0046] Figure 3 FIG shows a top view of a detection grid of various embodiments of the present application. The detection grid includes a plurality of first detection coils 301 facing a first direction and a plurality of second detection coils 302 facing a second direction. Figure 3As shown, the first direction is orthogonal to the second direction. In some embodiments, the multiple first detection coils 301 can be implemented in a multi-layer PCB board. Each first detection coil 301 can partially overlap its adjacent first detection coil 301. To simplify the illustration of the detection grid, dotted line 303 is used to represent the first detection coil 301. Similarly, multiple second detection coils 302 can be implemented in the same multi-layer PCB board. Each second detection coil 302 can partially overlap its adjacent second detection coil 302. To simplify the illustration of the detection grid, dotted line 304 is used to represent the second detection coil 302.

[0047] like Figure 3 As shown, twelve horizontal dotted lines are arranged at equal intervals from Y0 to Y11. Each horizontal dotted line represents a first detection coil 301. Throughout the specification, the horizontal dotted lines may be alternatively referred to as first detection coils 301.

[0048] like Figure 3 As shown, each first detection coil 301 is aligned with a corresponding position on the Y axis. Throughout the specification, the corresponding position on the Y axis can be used to label the first detection coils. For example, the first detection coil aligned with Y0 can be alternatively referred to as the first detection coil Y0.

[0049] like Figure 3 As shown, twelve vertical dashed lines are arranged at equal intervals from X0 to X11. Each vertical dashed line represents a second detection coil 302. Throughout the specification, the vertical dashed lines may be alternatively referred to as second detection coils 302.

[0050] like Figure 3 As shown, each second detection coil 302 is aligned with a corresponding position on the X-axis. Throughout the specification, the corresponding position on the X-axis can be used to label the second detection coils. For example, the second detection coil aligned with X0 can be alternatively referred to as the second detection coil X0.

[0051] During operation, multiple detection signals may be applied to the first detection coil 301 and the second detection coil 302. In some embodiments, the detection signals may be applied sequentially to the detection coils. After a receiver is placed above the detection grid, multiple echo signals may be reflected from the receiver coils. The detection coils are configured to receive the echo signals. Depending on the position of the detection coils, the strength of the echo signal received by each detection coil may vary accordingly.

[0052] In some embodiments, the charging plate 202 may be able to accommodate two mobile phones. A user can freely place the two mobile phones on the upper surface of the charging plate 202. The two mobile phones can be placed in a variety of ways. In response to the specific placement of the mobile phones, the echo signals may form a specific signal distribution pattern. The controller can locate the positions of the two mobile phones based on the signal distribution pattern of the echo signals. Figure 4-7 Four different placements of two mobile phones are illustrated.

[0053] The receiver of the mobile phone is magnetically coupled to the transmitter of the charging pad 202. As such, the receiver is the most relevant part for illustrating various embodiments of the present disclosure. For simplicity, the mobile phone may also be referred to alternatively as the receiver.

[0054] Figure 4 FIG. 1 shows a first placement of two receivers on a detection grid according to various embodiments of the present application. Figure 4 As shown, the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are placed in parallel and spaced apart. Figure 4 As shown, the first receiver 410 is located above the detection coils Y4, Y5, and Y6 along the Y axis, and above the detection coils X1, X2, and X3 along the X axis. The second receiver 420 is located above the detection coils Y4, Y5, and Y6 along the Y axis, and above the detection coils X8, X9, and X10 along the X axis.

[0055] exist Figure 4 The dashed rectangle 402 shows the echo signals received by the second detection coil. Because the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are separated from each other, the second detection coil receives two sets of echo signals. The first set of echo signals includes three echo signals: the first echo signal, the second echo signal, and the third echo signal. The first echo signal is generated by detection coil X1, the second echo signal is generated by detection coil X2, and the third echo signal is generated by detection coil X3. Because the center of the first receiver 410 is aligned with X2, the amplitude of the second echo signal is the largest in the first set of echo signals. The second set of echo signals includes three echo signals: the fourth echo signal, the fifth echo signal, and the sixth echo signal. The fourth echo signal is generated by detection coil X8, the fifth echo signal is generated by detection coil X9, and the sixth echo signal is generated by detection coil X10. Because the center of the second receiver 420 is aligned with X9, the amplitude of the fifth echo signal is the largest in the second set of echo signals.

[0056] like Figure 4As shown, the distance between the rightmost echo signal of the first group and the leftmost echo signal of the second group is defined as q. Based on the value of q, the controller can determine the number of receivers on the charging board. Specifically, the controller compares q with N D and N D is a predetermined threshold for determining whether there are two receivers on the detection grid. If q is greater than N D , it is determined that there are two receivers placed on the charging board 202.

[0057] In the dashed rectangle 404, the echo signals received by the first detection coil are shown. Since the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are parallel with respect to the Y-axis. Therefore, the first detection coil receives a group of echo signals. The first echo signal of this group is generated by the detection coil Y4, the second echo signal of this group is generated by the detection coil Y5, and the third echo signal of this group is generated by the detection coil Y6. Since the centers of the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are aligned with Y5, the amplitude of the second echo signal of this group is the largest in this group.

[0058] As Figure 4 shown, the number of this group of echo signals is defined as p. Based on the value of p, the controller can determine whether the two receivers are parallel. Specifically, the controller compares p with M. M is the predetermined number of echo signals for determining whether the two receivers are parallel. If p is less than or equal to M, it is determined that there are two receivers placed parallel on the charging board. On the other hand, if p is greater than M, it can be determined that the two receivers are not parallel.

[0059] As Figure 4 shown, the two receivers are parallel but spaced apart from each other. The echo signal distribution pattern in the dashed rectangle 402 indicates the presence of two receivers separated from each other. The echo signal distribution pattern in the dashed rectangle 404 only indicates one receiver (p < M). Since the echo signal distribution pattern in the dashed rectangle 402 has identified two receivers, the echo signal distribution pattern in the dashed rectangle 404 can be interpreted as the two receivers being parallel. The controller can determine the positions of the two receivers according to Figure 4 the shown echo signal distribution pattern.

[0060] Figure 5 shows the second placement of two receivers on the detection grid in various embodiments of the present application. As Figure 5 shown, the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are placed parallel and adjacent to each other. As Figure 5As shown, the first receiver 410 is located above the detection coils Y4, Y5, and Y6 along the Y axis, and above the detection coils X3, X4, and X5 along the X axis. The second receiver 420 is located above the detection coils Y4, Y5, and Y6 along the Y axis, and above the detection coils X6, X7, and X8 along the X axis.

[0061] In the dotted rectangle 502, the echo signal received by the second detection coil is shown. Since the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are adjacent to each other, the second detection coil receives a group of echo signals. The first echo signal of the group is generated by the detection coil X3, the second echo signal is generated by the detection coil X4, the third echo signal is generated by the detection coil X5, the fourth echo signal is generated by the detection coil X6, the fifth echo signal is generated by the detection coil X7, and the sixth echo signal is generated by the detection coil X8. Since the center of the first receiver 410 and the center of the second receiver 420 are aligned with X4 and X7, respectively, the amplitudes of the second echo signal and the fifth echo signal are the largest in the group. Figure 5 As shown, the number of echo signals in the group is defined as p. Based on the value of p, the controller can determine the number of receivers. Specifically, the controller compares p with N N For comparison, N N is the threshold number of echo signals in a group, which is used to determine whether there are two receivers on the detection grid. N , and only one set of echo signals is detected, it is determined that there are two receivers on the detection grid.

[0062] In the dotted rectangle 504, the echo signal received by the first detection coil is shown. Since the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are parallel with respect to the Y axis, the first detection coil receives a group of echo signals. The first echo signal of the group is generated by the detection coil Y4, the second echo signal of the group is generated by the detection coil Y5, and the third echo signal of the group is generated by the detection coil Y6. Since the centers of the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are aligned with Y5, the amplitude of the second echo signal of the group is the largest in the group. Figure 5 As shown, the number of echo signals in this group is defined as p. Based on the value of p, the controller can determine whether the two receivers are placed in parallel. Specifically, the controller compares p with M. If p is less than or equal to M, the controller determines that the two receivers are placed in parallel on the charging plate. On the other hand, if p is greater than M, the controller determines that the two receivers are not placed in parallel. As previously mentioned, M is a predetermined number used to determine whether the two receivers are placed in parallel.

[0063] like Figure 5As shown, the two receivers are parallel and adjacent to each other. The echo signal distribution pattern in the dotted rectangle 502 indicates that there are two receivers adjacent to each other. The echo signal distribution pattern in the dotted rectangle 504 indicates that the two receivers are at the same position relative to the Y axis. In other words, the two receivers are parallel. The controller can Figure 5 The echo signals shown determine the positions of the two receivers.

[0064] Figure 6 FIG. 4 shows a third placement of two receivers on a detection grid according to various embodiments of the present application. Figure 6 As shown, the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are not placed in parallel or aligned. In addition, the two receivers are spaced apart from each other. Figure 6 As shown, the first receiver 410 is located above the detection coils Y8, Y9, and Y10 along the Y axis, and above the detection coils X1, X2, and X3 along the X axis. The second receiver 420 is located above the detection coils Y1, Y2, and Y3 along the Y axis, and above the detection coils X8, X9, and X10 along the X axis.

[0065] The dashed rectangle 602 shows the echo signals received by the second detection coil. Because the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are separated / spaced from each other, the second detection coil receives two sets of echo signals. The first set of echo signals includes three echo signals: the first echo signal, the second echo signal, and the third echo signal. The first echo signal is generated by detection coil X1, the second echo signal is generated by detection coil X2, and the third echo signal is generated by detection coil X3. Because the center of the first receiver 410 is aligned with X2, the amplitude of the second echo signal is the largest in the first set. The second set of echo signals includes three echo signals: the fourth echo signal, the fifth echo signal, and the sixth echo signal. The fourth echo signal is generated by detection coil X8. The fifth echo signal is generated by detection coil X9, and the sixth echo signal is generated by detection coil X10. Because the center of the second receiver 420 is aligned with X9, the amplitude of the fifth echo signal is the largest in the second set.

[0066] like Figure 6 As shown, the distance between the rightmost echo signal of the first group and the leftmost echo signal of the second group is defined as q. Based on the value of q, the controller can determine the number of receivers on the charging plate. In particular, q is compared with a predetermined threshold value N D Compare. If q is greater than or equal to N D, it is determined that there are two receivers placed on the charging plate. In operation, the controller can check the echo signal of the X axis and the echo signal of the Y axis. In some embodiments, the controller can determine the number of receivers on the charging plate based on the echo signal of the X axis (for example, the echo signal in the dotted rectangle 602). After determining the number of receivers on the charging plate, the controller can determine whether the two receivers are in parallel based on the echo signal of the other axis (for example, the echo signal in the dotted rectangle 604). As previously described, N D is a predetermined threshold used to determine whether two receivers are on the detection grid.

[0067] The dashed rectangle 604 shows the echo signals received by the first detection coil. Because the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are not parallel with respect to the Y-axis, the first detection coil receives two sets of echo signals. The first echo signal of the first set is generated by detection coil Y1, the second echo signal of the first set is generated by detection coil Y2, and the third echo signal of the first set is generated by detection coil Y3. Because the center of the first receiver 410 is aligned with Y2, the amplitude of the second echo signal of the first set is the largest in the first set. The first echo signal of the second set is generated by detection coil Y8, the second echo signal of the second set is generated by detection coil Y9, and the third echo signal of the second set is generated by detection coil Y10. Because the center of the second receiver 420 is aligned with Y9, the amplitude of the second echo signal of the second set is the largest in the second set.

[0068] As shown in the dashed rectangle 604, the distance between the rightmost echo signal of the first group and the leftmost echo signal of the second group is defined as q. The controller compares q with a predetermined threshold N D Compare. If q is greater than N D , then the two receivers are not placed in parallel. If q is less than N D , the controller proceeds to perform the following steps to determine whether the two receivers are in parallel. The number of echo signals in the dotted rectangle 604 (the sum of the first group and the second group) is defined as p. Based on the value of p, the controller is able to determine whether the two receivers are in parallel. Specifically, the controller compares p with a predetermined threshold M. If p is less than or equal to M, it is determined that the two receivers are placed in parallel on the charging plate. On the other hand, if p is greater than M, it is determined that the two receivers are not in the same position relative to the Y-axis, that is, it is determined that the two receivers are not in parallel. As mentioned above, M is a predetermined number used to determine whether the two receivers are in parallel.

[0069] like Figure 6As shown, the two receivers are not in parallel but are separated from each other. The echo signal distribution pattern in the dotted rectangle 602 indicates that there are two receivers separated from each other. The echo signal distribution pattern in the dotted rectangle 604 indicates that the two receivers are not in parallel. The controller can be based on Figure 6 The echo signals shown are used to determine the positions of the two receivers. More specifically, the detection grid is divided into four areas. The upper left area is the (0, 0) area, the lower left area is the (1, 0) area, the upper right area is the (0, 1) area, and the lower right area is the (1, 1) area. Figure 6 As shown, the first receiver 410 is placed in the (0, 0) area. The second receiver 420 is placed in the (1, 1) area. Figure 6 Based on the echo distribution pattern shown in , the controller can use a suitable search algorithm to identify the locations of the two receivers.

[0070] Figure 7 FIG. 4 shows a fourth arrangement of two receivers on a detection grid according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. The first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are not placed in parallel, and furthermore, the two receivers are adjacent to each other. Figure 7 As shown, the first receiver 410 is located above the detection coils Y5, Y6, and Y7 along the Y axis, and above the detection coils X3, X4, and X5 along the X axis. The second receiver 420 is located above the detection coils Y3, Y4, and Y5 along the Y axis, and above the detection coils X6, X7, and X8 along the X axis.

[0071] The dashed rectangle 702 shows the echo signals received by the second detection coil. Because the first and second receivers 410 and 420 are adjacent to each other, the second detection coil receives a set of echo signals. The first echo signal in this set of echo signals is generated by detection coil X3, the second echo signal is generated by detection coil X4, the third echo signal is generated by detection coil X5, the fourth echo signal is generated by detection coil X6, the fifth echo signal is generated by detection coil X7, and the sixth echo signal is generated by detection coil X8. Because the centers of the first and second receivers 410 and 420 are aligned with X4 and X7, respectively, the amplitudes of the second and fifth echo signals are the largest in the set.

[0072] In some embodiments, the controller may determine the number of receivers on the charging pad based on the echo signal of the X axis (eg, the echo signal in the dashed rectangle 702). Figure 7 As shown, the number of echo signals in the group within the dashed rectangle 702 is defined as p. Based on the value of p, the controller can determine the number of receivers. Specifically, the controller compares p with N N For comparison, as mentioned above, NN is the threshold number used to determine whether two receivers are on the detection grid. If p is greater than N and only one set of echo signals is detected, then it is determined that there are two receivers on the detection grid. After determining the number of receivers on the charging plate, the controller can determine whether the two receivers are connected in parallel based on the echo signals of the other axis (e.g., the echo signals within the dashed rectangle 704).

[0073] The dashed rectangle 704 shows the echo signals received by the first detection coil. Because the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are not parallel with respect to the Y-axis and are adjacent to each other, the first detection coil receives a group of echo signals. The first echo signal in this group of echo signals is generated by detection coil Y3, the second echo signal is generated by detection coil Y4, the third echo signal is generated by detection coil Y5, the fourth echo signal is generated by detection coil Y6, and the fifth echo signal is generated by detection coil Y7. Because the centers of the first receiver 410 and the second receiver 420 are aligned with Y4 and Y6, respectively, the amplitudes of the second and fourth echo signals are the largest in the group.

[0074] like Figure 7 As shown, the number of echo signals in this group (echo signals within dashed rectangle 704) is defined as p. Based on the value of p, the controller can determine whether the two receivers are in parallel. Specifically, the controller compares p with M. If p is less than or equal to M, the two receivers are determined to be placed in parallel on the charging plate. On the other hand, if p is greater than M, the two receivers are determined to be not in the same position relative to the Y-axis, that is, the two receivers are determined to be not in parallel. As previously described, M is a predetermined number used to determine whether the two receivers are in parallel.

[0075] like Figure 7 As shown, the two receivers are not parallel, and in addition, the two receivers are adjacent to each other. The echo signal distribution pattern in the dotted rectangle 702 indicates that there are two receivers adjacent to each other. The echo signal distribution pattern in the rectangle 704 indicates that the two receivers are not parallel. The controller can be based on Figure 7 The echo signals shown are used to determine the positions of the two receivers. More specifically, the detection grid is divided into four areas. The upper left area is the (0, 0) area. The lower left area is the (1, 0) area. The upper right area is the (0, 1) area. The lower right area is the (1, 1) area. Figure 7 As shown, the first receiver 410 is placed in the (0, 0) area. The second receiver 420 is placed in the (1, 1) area. Figure 7 Based on the echo distribution pattern shown in , the controller can use a suitable search algorithm to identify the locations of the two receivers.

[0076] Figure 8FIG. 8 shows a state machine for searching for receiver positions in various embodiments of the present application. The state machine 800 includes two states, a first state 802 and a second state 804. The first state 802 corresponds to a first position of two parallel receivers. The second state 804 corresponds to a second position of two parallel receivers. Figure 8 As shown, state machine 800 allows state transitions between one state (eg, state 802 ) and another state (eg, state 804 ).

[0077] Depending on the echo signal distribution pattern, the controller can determine the number of receivers on the detection grid. Figure 4-5 The echo signal distribution pattern shown in , the controller is able to determine the two positions (00 and 01) of the two receivers. After finding the position of the first receiver, the controller can find the position of the second receiver by state transition between state 802 and state 804.

[0078] Figure 9 Another state machine for searching for the location of a receiver in various embodiments of the present application is shown. State machine 900 includes four states: a first state 902, a second state 904, a third state 906, and a fourth state 908. First state 902 corresponds to a location in the upper left region of the detection grid. Second state 904 corresponds to a location in the upper right region of the detection grid. Third state 906 corresponds to a location in the lower left region of the detection grid. Fourth state 908 corresponds to a location in the lower right region of the detection grid.

[0079] As used herein, a state machine is defined as a machine that can be in one of a plurality of states (e.g., states 902, 904, 906, and 908), that is in one state at a time, and that has the ability to change from one state to another upon receiving a trigger condition (e.g., a state transition). Thus, such a state machine can be defined by its states and the trigger conditions for transitions between two states.

[0080] according to Figure 9 The state machine shown is Figure 9 The arrows shown starting from the old state and pointing to the new state indicate events that lead to transitions from one state to another. State machine 900 allows state transitions to be made between one state (e.g., state 902) and one of the other three states (e.g., one of states 904, 906, and 908).

[0081] According to the echo signal distribution pattern, the controller can determine the number of receivers on the detection grid. Figure 6-7Based on the echo signal distribution pattern shown in , the controller can determine the four positions (00, 01, 10 and 11) of the detection grid. First, based on a suitable search algorithm, the controller can find the position of the first receiver. Figure 9 In the state machine 900 shown, the controller can find the position of the second receiver through multiple state transitions. In some embodiments, the controller can find the position of the second receiver through one state transition. In the worst case, the controller may find the position of the second receiver through three state transitions. For example, the first receiver is placed in the first position (00) and the second receiver is placed in the fourth position (11). After finding the position of the first receiver, the controller can find the position of the second receiver directly through the state transition between state 902 and state 908. Alternatively, after finding the position of the first receiver, the controller can find the position of the second receiver through three state transitions. The first state transition is between state 902 and state 904, the second state transition is between state 904 and state 906, and the third state transition is between state 906 and state 908.

[0082] Figure 10-11 A flow chart of a method for detecting two receivers according to various embodiments of the present application is shown. Figure 10-11 The flowcharts shown in are examples only, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. Those skilled in the art will recognize many variations, substitutions, and modifications. For example, the following may be added, removed, replaced, rearranged, and repeated: Figure 10-11 The steps shown.

[0083] Figure 10 The first part of the method 1000 of various embodiments of the present application is shown. Figure 11 A second portion of the method 1000 of various embodiments of the present application is shown.

[0084] Reference again Figure 2 , placing two receivers on a detection grid. The two receivers can be embedded in two mobile phones, respectively, and the detection grid is located on the charging pad. The charging pad also includes a movable transmitter. The movable transmitter is moved by a two-dimensional movement device including two motors. After detecting the two receivers, the movable transmitter first moves under the first receiver. After the first receiver is fully charged, the movable transmitter moves from the first receiver to the second receiver, and the movable transmitter is then used to provide wireless charging for the second receiver.

[0085] Method 1000 begins at step 1002 and proceeds to step 1004, which includes performing a reset operation and applying a detection signal. Specifically, in step 1004, the controller resets multiple control logic units, such as registers. For example, before further operation, the controller resets various operating parameters previously measured and stored in the registers. Also in step 1004, the controller applies multiple detection signals. Thus, when a receiver is placed on the charging pad, multiple echo signals will be reflected by the receiver.

[0086] In step 1006, a determination is made as to whether any receivers are detected. Specifically, the controller determines whether any receivers are placed on the detection grid. If, in step 1006, the controller cannot detect any receivers, method 1000 proceeds to step 1006 again. Also in step 1006, if at least one receiver is detected, method 1000 proceeds to step 1008. In step 1008, a determination is made as to whether two receivers are detected. If two receivers are detected, method 1000 proceeds to step 1010. Otherwise, if only one receiver is detected, method 1000 proceeds to step 1020. In step 1020, the controller is configured to move the transmitter coil under the detected receiver and charge it. After the detected receiver is fully charged, the method proceeds to step 1022.

[0087] In step 1010, the positions of the two detected receivers are determined. Specifically, based on the echo signal distribution pattern (e.g., Figure 4-7 The controller determines the positions of the two detected receivers. After determining the positions of the two detected receivers, the method 1000 proceeds to step 1012.

[0088] In step 1012 , the controller is configured to find the location of the first receiver, move the transmitter coil of the movable transmitter to below the first receiver, and charge the first receiver.

[0089] At step 1014, the controller determines whether the first receiver is fully charged. If the first receiver is not fully charged, the method 1000 repeats step 1014 again. Also at step 1014, if the first receiver is fully charged, the method 1000 proceeds to step 1016.

[0090] In step 1016 , the controller is configured to find the location of the second receiver, move the transmitter coil of the movable transmitter to under the second receiver, and charge the second receiver.

[0091] At step 1018 , the controller determines whether the second receiver is fully charged. If the second receiver is not fully charged, the method 1000 again proceeds to step 1018 . Also at step 1018 , if the second receiver is fully charged, the method 1000 proceeds to step 1022 .

[0092] At step 1022, the motor is reset and charging is completed. That is, at step 1022, the motor is reset and both receivers are fully charged.

[0093] Figure 12 The control of various embodiments of the present application is shown Figure 1 Flowchart of the wireless power transmission system shown. Figure 12 The flowcharts shown are merely examples, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. Those skilled in the art will recognize many variations, substitutions, and modifications. For example, additions, deletions, replacements, rearrangements, and repetitions may be made. Figure 12 The steps shown in .

[0094] In step 1202, a plurality of detection signals are applied to a plurality of receivers. That is, the plurality of detection signals are applied to the plurality of receivers.

[0095] At step 1204 , the controller receives a plurality of echo signals from a plurality of receivers.

[0096] In step 1206 , the controller compares the plurality of echo signals with a predetermined echo signal distribution pattern.

[0097] At step 1208 , the controller determines the number of the plurality of receivers.

[0098] In step 1210, the controller sequentially charges the plurality of receivers using the removable transmitter.

[0099] Figure 13 The control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1 Another flow chart of the wireless power transmission system is shown. Figure 13 The flowcharts shown are examples only and should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. Those skilled in the art will recognize many variations, substitutions, and modifications. For example, the following may be added, removed, replaced, rearranged, and repeated: Figure 13 The steps shown.

[0100] In step 1302 , the controller receives a plurality of echo signals via a detection grid on the movable transmitter.

[0101] In step 1304 , the controller compares the plurality of echo signals with a predetermined echo signal distribution pattern.

[0102] At step 1306, the controller determines whether the multiple receivers are parallel or misaligned.

[0103] At step 1308, the controller sequentially charges the plurality of receivers using the removable transmitter.

[0104] The aforementioned methods may be executed by the controller of the aforementioned charging pad. The aforementioned methods correspond to the functions performed by the aforementioned charging pad controller. For the steps or more specific steps included in the aforementioned methods, please refer to the relevant descriptions of the functions performed by the aforementioned charging pad controller. Although the embodiments of the present disclosure and their advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and modifications may be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0105] Furthermore, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of matter, means, methods, and steps described in the specification. One of ordinary skill in the art will readily understand from the disclosure herein that there are currently existing or later developed processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps that perform substantially the same functions and that may use the embodiments described with reference to the embodiments of the present application or achieve substantially the same results as the corresponding embodiments described herein. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

Claims

1. A method for a wireless power transmission system, comprising: applying a plurality of detection signals to a plurality of receivers; receiving a plurality of echo signals from a plurality of receivers; comparing the plurality of echo signals with a predetermined echo signal distribution pattern; determining the number of the plurality of receivers, comprising: determining the number of the plurality of receivers by comparing a distance between a first group of echo signals and a second group of echo signals with a predetermined threshold value when the plurality of echo signals include two groups of echo signals, and determining the number of the plurality of receivers by comparing the number of the plurality of echo signals with a threshold number of one group of echo signals when the plurality of echo signals include one group of echo signals; Use a removable transmitter to charge multiple receivers sequentially.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: detecting the plurality of receivers using a detection grid comprising a plurality of first detection coils oriented in a first direction and a plurality of second detection coils oriented in a second direction; determining a location of a first receiver requiring charging; as well as The movable transmitter is moved toward the position of the first receiver that needs to be charged using a two-dimensional moving device.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The two-dimensional movement device includes a first motor for moving the movable transmitter in a first direction; and a second motor for moving the movable transmitter in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.

4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: After the number of the plurality of receivers is determined, it is determined whether the first receiver is in parallel with the second receiver based on a comparison of the plurality of echo signals with a predetermined echo signal distribution pattern.

5. The method according to claim 4, further comprising: After determining that the first receiver is parallel to the second receiver, determining two positions of the first receiver and the second receiver; charging the first receiver by moving the movable transmitter to a first of two positions; as well as After the first receiver is fully charged, a second receiver is charged by moving the movable transmitter to a second of two positions.

6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: After determining the number of the plurality of receivers, it is determined whether the first receiver and the second receiver are positioned in a misaligned manner based on a comparison of the plurality of echo signals with a predetermined echo signal distribution pattern.

7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising: After determining that the first receiver and the second receiver are not aligned, determining four possible positions of the first receiver and the second receiver; finding a first position of the first receiver; charging the first receiver by moving the movable transmitter toward a first position of the first receiver; After fully charging the first receiver, finding a second position of the second receiver; and The second receiver is charged by moving the movable transmitter toward a second position of the second receiver.

8. A method for a wireless power transmission system, comprising: receiving a plurality of echo signals via a detection grid on a movable transmitter; when the plurality of echo signals include two groups of echo signals, comparing a distance between the first group of echo signals and the second group of echo signals with a predetermined threshold value, and when the plurality of echo signals include one group of echo signals, comparing the number of the plurality of echo signals with a threshold number of one group of echo signals; Determine whether multiple receivers are in parallel or misaligned; as well as Use a removable transmitter to charge multiple receivers sequentially.

9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: A detection grid above the movable transmitter is used to determine whether a receiver is placed near the movable transmitter, the detection grid including a plurality of first detection coils oriented in a first direction and a plurality of second detection coils oriented in a second direction.

10. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: Whether one or two receivers are placed proximate to the movable transmitter is determined using a detection grid above the movable transmitter, the detection grid including a plurality of first detection coils oriented in a first direction and a plurality of second detection coils oriented in a second direction.

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: After determining that two receivers are positioned near the movable transmitter, searching for a position of a first receiver of the two receivers; charging the first receiver by moving the movable transmitter toward the location of the first receiver; After fully charging the first receiver, searching for a position of a second receiver of the two receivers; as well as The second receiver is charged by moving the movable transmitter toward the location of the second receiver.

12. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: When it is determined that a receiver is placed near the movable transmitter, the one receiver is charged by moving the movable transmitter toward the location of the one receiver.

13. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: After determining that two receivers are positioned proximate to the movable transmitter, it is determined whether the two receivers are in parallel.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: After determining that the two receivers are in parallel, finding two positions of the two receivers; as well as The two receivers are charged sequentially according to a state machine having two states, wherein the step of charging the two receivers sequentially is completed within one state transition.

15. The method according to claim 13, further comprising: After determining that the two receivers are misaligned, find four possible positions of the two receivers; as well as The two receivers are sequentially charged according to a state machine having four states, wherein the step of sequentially charging the two receivers is completed within a range from one state transition to three state transitions.

16. A dual-receiver detection device comprising: removable launcher; a detection grid located above the movable transmitter; as well as A controller is configured to apply a plurality of detection signals to a plurality of receivers located on the detection grid, receive a plurality of echo signals from the plurality of receivers, compare the plurality of echo signals with a predetermined echo signal distribution pattern, and determine a number of the plurality of receivers, wherein the controller determines the number of the plurality of receivers by comparing a distance between a first group of echo signals and a second group of echo signals with a predetermined threshold value when the plurality of echo signals include two groups of echo signals, and determines the number of the plurality of receivers by comparing the number of the plurality of echo signals with a threshold number of a group of echo signals when the plurality of echo signals include a group of echo signals.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, further comprising a two-dimensional movement device, wherein: After finding two receivers on the detection grid, the controller controls the two-dimensional movement device to move the movable transmitter to a first position below the first receiver, where the movable transmitter is used to charge the first receiver; as well as After the first receiver is fully charged, the controller controls the two-dimensional movement device to move the movable transmitter from the first position to a second position below the second receiver, where the movable transmitter is used to charge the second receiver.

18. The device according to claim 17, wherein The two-dimensional moving device comprises: a first motor for driving the movable launcher to move in a first direction; and The second motor is configured to drive the movable launcher to move along a second direction, wherein the first direction is orthogonal to the second direction.

19. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein: The first receiver is located in a first mobile phone; The second receiver is located in a second mobile phone; and The movable transmitter, detection grid and controller are located inside the charging plate.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein: The charging plate, the first mobile phone and the second mobile phone constitute a wireless power transmission system.

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