Systems and methods for wireless charger docking

Abstract

A method of adapting charging of an accessory device, comprising: transmitting a first transmission signal at a first transmission amplitude; measuring a received load of the first transmission signal; and if the charging device does not receive a response signal to the first transmission signal, transmitting a second transmission signal at a second transmission amplitude different from the first transmission amplitude.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Background and related technologies

[0002] Wireless electronic devices offer users increased freedom while maintaining connectivity for personal and professional communications. Wireless accessories allow for more efficient interaction with communications and other electronic devices. However, even electronic devices and accessories designed for wireless use routinely require wired charging of their internal power source. While wireless charging technology is becoming increasingly common, it exhibits lower power delivery performance, slower charging speeds, slower data transfer rates, and other drawbacks compared to wired charging and data transfer. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In some embodiments, an accessory device is positioned near a wireless charging device (such as a near-field communication transmission coil). The wireless charging device provides transmission energy received by the accessory device and inducing a current in the accessory device. Modulation of the amplitude of the transmission energy alters the induced current to transmit data to the accessory device. In some embodiments, the wireless charging device sets a first transmission amplitude to establish communication with the accessory device, and if the wireless charging device does not receive a recognized response from the accessory device, it changes the transmission energy to a second transmission amplitude.

[0004] In some embodiments, a method for charging an accessory device includes: transmitting a first transmission signal with a first transmission amplitude; measuring the receiving load of the first transmission signal; and if the charging device does not receive a response signal to the first transmission signal, transmitting a second transmission signal with a second transmission amplitude different from the first transmission amplitude.

[0005] In some embodiments, a system for wirelessly communicating with an accessory device includes: a transmission coil, a processor in data communication with the transmission coil, and a hardware storage device in data communication with the processor. The hardware storage device has instructions stored thereon that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: transmit a first transmission signal with a first transmission amplitude using the transmission coil; measure the receiving load of the first transmission signal; and, if the transmission coil does not receive a response signal to the first transmission signal, transmit a second transmission signal with a second transmission amplitude different from the first transmission amplitude.

[0006] This disclosure is provided to introduce, in a simplified form, a selection of concepts also described in the detailed description. This overview is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0007] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the following description, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the teachings herein. The features and advantages of this disclosure may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. The features of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned by practice of this disclosure as set forth below. Attached Figure Description

[0008] To describe how the features listed above and others of this disclosure can be obtained, a more specific description will be presented by reference to particular embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. For better understanding, the same elements have been designated by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings. Although some drawings may be schematic or exaggerated representations of concepts, at least some drawings are drawn to scale. It will be understood that the drawings depict some exemplary embodiments, which will be described and explained with additional features and details using the drawings, in which:

[0009] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an electronic device having an accessory device docked thereto, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0010] Figure 2 This is a side view of an accessory device positioned on a docking dock according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a method for transmitting data to an accessory device using a wireless charger according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of another method for transmitting data to an accessory device using a wireless charger according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the transmission of signals with different amplitudes and modulation depths according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating yet another method for transmitting data to an accessory device using a wireless charger according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0015] Figure 7 This is a system diagram of a charging device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure; Detailed Implementation

[0016] This disclosure generally relates to devices, systems, and methods for docking accessory devices to a wireless charger. In some embodiments, the wireless charger is part of a docking station integrated into another electronic device, such as a peripheral docking station on a laptop computer. In some embodiments, the wireless charger is a dedicated docking station for accessory devices, such as a charging dock for a remote control.

[0017] In some embodiments, a user docks an accessory device to another electronic device to charge the accessory device. In some embodiments, the docking station includes a transmission coil that generates a magnetic field. The magnetic field of the docking station can magnetically couple the transmission coil to a receiving coil of the accessory device to induce a current in the receiving coil of the accessory device.

[0018] In some embodiments, a computer mouse may be docked to a wireless charging pad to charge between usage sessions. In some embodiments, the accessory device is a wearable device, such as a smartwatch. In some embodiments, the accessory device is a stylus. In some embodiments, the accessory device is a keyboard. In some embodiments, the accessory device is a touch-sensitive device, such as a tracking pad, touchscreen, other capacitive touch-sensitive surface, other resistive touch-sensitive surface, or other touch-sensitive input mechanism. In some embodiments, the accessory device is an audio device, such as a wireless speaker, headphones, earphones, or other audio device capable of generating audio signals to communicate with a user.

[0019] In some embodiments, the electronic device is a computing device, including but not limited to laptop computers, hybrid computers, foldable computers, tablet computers, smartphones, wearable computing devices, or other computing devices. In some embodiments, the electronic device includes a docking station containing a transmission coil. The transmission coil can transmit power from the docking station to an accessory device. When a transmission current is applied to the transmission coil in the docking station, the transmission coil generates a magnetic field extending beyond the outer surface of the docking station. A receiving coil positioned within the magnetic field adjacent to the docking station experiences the magnetic field. The changing magnetic field induces a current in the receiving coil. In some embodiments, the transmission coil generates a radio frequency (RF) signal in the near-field communication (NFC) frequency range.

[0020] In some embodiments, the transmitting coil transfers energy from the transmitting coil to the receiving coil to wirelessly charge and / or communicate with the accessory device. In some embodiments, the power source is a battery. In some embodiments, the power source is a capacitor. In some embodiments, the transmitting coil modulates the energy transferred from the transmitting coil to the receiving coil to transmit data from the docking station and / or electronic device to the accessory device.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electronic device 100 docked with accessory device 108. Figure 1The electronic device 100 described herein is a laptop computer having a first part 102 and a second part 104 that can move relative to each other, while the accessory device 108 is a stylus paired with the electronic device to provide input and inking functionality.

[0022] In some embodiments, the processor 106 of the electronic device 100 is located in the second portion 104 and is in data communication with the transmission coil 110 located in the first portion 102. When the accessory device 108 is positioned near the transmission coil 110, the receiving coil 112 receives transmitted energy from the transmission coil 110, and the accessory device 108 enters a docking mode. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame of the first portion 102 containing the transmission coil 110 acts as a docking dock for the accessory device 108. In some embodiments, the docking dock includes a holding mechanism (such as a mechanical holding mechanism, a magnetic holding mechanism, or an adhesive holding mechanism) to hold the accessory device 108 near the docking dock. In some embodiments, the docking dock is oriented such that gravity holds the accessory device 108 near the docking dock.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a side view of another embodiment of the accessory device 208 placed on docking dock 214. In some embodiments, accessory device 208 has a housing 216, wherein a receiving coil 212 is positioned on or near the surface of housing 216. The receiving coil 212 is positioned near the transmission coil 210 of docking dock 214 such that transmission energy 218 is transmitted to the receiving coil 212.

[0024] In some embodiments, the transmitted energy 218 is transported en route through one or more components of the accessory device 208 and / or docking station 214 to the receiving coil 212. In some embodiments, the housing 216 of the accessory device 208 and / or the cover 220 of the docking station 214 are at least partially transparent to the transmitted energy 218. In the illustrated embodiment having a transmitting coil 210 that generates a magnetic field, the cover 220 is made of a non-magnetic material to allow the transmitted energy 218 to pass through the cover 220 to reach the receiving coil 212.

[0025] Now for reference Figure 3 In some embodiments, a method (322) for communication via a wireless charging device includes: transmitting (324) a first transmission signal with a first transmission amplitude using a transmission coil; and measuring (326) the receiving load of the transmission signal. In some embodiments, the transmission signal is a power signal used to establish communication for powering or charging an accessory device. When a metal or other ferromagnetic object is near the transmission coil, the first transmission signal induces a current in the object and the transmission coil experiences a receiving load. Measuring the receiving load of the transmission signal allows the wireless charging device to detect the presence of an object near the transmission coil.

[0026] In some embodiments, current induction via magnetic coupling causes jitter. Jitter generates multiple signals when the electrical contacts or electrical coupling open or close. De-jitter detects these multiple signals and ensures that a single opening or closing of the contacts affects only a single signal. In some embodiments, the method includes de-jittering a response signal from an accessory device to ensure accurate measurement of the received load.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first transmission signal includes a modulated signal for communication with a receiving coil of an accessory device. The transmission coil provides the modulated signal by varying the amplitude of the first transmission signal during its duration. The accessory device can receive and interpret the amplitude modulation of the first transmission signal and subsequently respond to it. The response from the accessory device confirms to the wireless charging device that the object in the magnetic field of the transmission coil is a rechargeable accessory device, and the wireless charging device can begin charging the accessory device.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first transmission signal fails to communicate with the accessory device. In some embodiments, communication fails due to interference from a foreign object. In some embodiments, communication fails due to electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI). In some embodiments, communication fails due to insufficient power of the first transmission signal. In some embodiments, communication fails due to excessive power of the first transmission signal.

[0029] In some embodiments, the method includes: if the transmission coil does not receive a response signal to the first transmission signal, then transmitting (328) a second transmission signal with a second transmission amplitude different from the first transmission amplitude.

[0030] In embodiments where communication fails due to overpower, the first transmitted signal saturates the receiving coil. A ferromagnetic object experiences a current in the presence of a changing magnetic field. However, the current cannot increase indefinitely with increasing magnetic field amplitude. The ferromagnetic object will experience a current up to the saturation point. Because a magnetic field can only induce a current up to the saturation point, changes in magnetic field amplitude beyond the saturation point will not produce a change in current. In some embodiments, magnetic saturation of the receiving coil prevents communication by modulating the magnetic field.

[0031] In embodiments where the receiving coil is magnetically saturated and fails to send a response signal to the transmitting coil of the wireless charging device, the wireless charging device sends a second transmission signal with a second transmission amplitude less than the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is a percentage of the first transmission amplitude within a range having an upper limit, a lower limit, or both, including any value among 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, and 90%, or any value between these limits. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is less than 90% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is less than 80% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is less than 60% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is between 5% and 80% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is between 10% and 60% of the first transmission amplitude.

[0032] Figure 4 Another flowchart illustrating a method of communication using a wireless charging device is shown. In some embodiments, the method (322) of communication using a wireless charging device includes: transmitting (324) a first transmission signal with a first transmission amplitude using a transmission coil; and measuring (326) the receiving load of the transmission signal. The method further includes: transmitting (328) a second transmission signal with a second transmission amplitude different from the first transmission amplitude if the transmission coil does not receive a response signal to the first transmission signal. The method further includes: transmitting (330) a third transmission signal with a third transmission amplitude different from the first and second transmission amplitudes if the transmission coil does not receive a response signal to the second transmission signal.

[0033] In embodiments where the receiving coil is magnetically saturated and fails to send a response signal to the transmitting coil of the wireless charging device, the wireless charging device sends a third transmission signal having a third transmission amplitude less than the second transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is a percentage of the second transmission amplitude within a range having an upper limit, a lower limit, or both, including any value among 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, and 90%, or any value between these limits. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is less than 90% of the second transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is less than 80% of the second transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is less than 60% of the second transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is between 5% and 80% of the second transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is between 10% and 60% of the second transmission amplitude.

[0034] In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is a percentage of the first transmission amplitude within a range having an upper limit, a lower limit, or both, including any value among 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, and 80%, or any value between these values. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is less than 80% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is less than 70% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is less than 60% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is between 5% and 80% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is between 10% and 60% of the first transmission amplitude.

[0035] In some embodiments, the modulation of the transmitted signal is related to the peak transmission amplitude. Figure 5 Example transmission signal 432 is explained. The first transmission signal 432-1 begins when the RF field (e.g., magnetic field) is turned on at 434 and has a peak amplitude 436. In some embodiments, the amplitude has amplitude modulation 438 that decreases to 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, or any value between these values ​​of the peak amplitude 436. Modulation depth is the amount of current change induced in the receiving coil of the accessory device. If amplitude modulation occurs above the saturation level 440 of the receiving coil, there is no modulation depth and amplitude modulation 438 produces little or no change in the induced current.

[0036] In some embodiments, the modulation depth of data transmitted via the wireless charging device is less than 90% (e.g., the low point of the transmitted signal is 90% of the peak amplitude). In some embodiments, the modulation depth of data transmitted via the wireless charging device is less than 80%. In some embodiments, the modulation depth of data transmitted via the wireless charging device is less than 60%.

[0037] In some embodiments, the peak amplitude 436 and / or modulation 438 is higher than the saturation level 440 of the receiving coil. In some embodiments, the wireless charging device reduces the transmission amplitude below the saturation level 440 of the receiving coil, such that the amplitude modulation of the second transmission signal 432-2 generates a modulation depth 442 less than a modulation threshold set in the system. In some embodiments, the modulation depth is detected by measuring the receiving load. Because the receiving load is related to the response of the receiving coil to a magnetic field, a stronger magnetic field produces an associated increase in the receiving load. In some embodiments, an increase in transmission amplitude without an increase in receiving load indicates saturation of the receiving coil.

[0038] Figure 6This is a flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure. In some embodiments, another method (522) for communicating using a wireless charging device includes: transmitting (524) a first transmitted signal with a first transmitted amplitude using a transmission coil; and measuring (526) the receiving load of the transmitted signal. The method further includes determining (544) a modulation depth based on the receiving load. The method includes: if the modulation depth is greater than a modulation threshold, transmitting (546) a second transmitted signal with a second transmitted amplitude different from the first transmitted amplitude. For example, if the modulation threshold is set to 80% and the modulation depth is determined to be 90%, the method includes transmitting the second transmitted signal with a second amplitude.

[0039] In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is a percentage of the first transmission amplitude within a range having an upper limit, a lower limit, or both, including any value from 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or any value between these values. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is less than 90% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is less than 80% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is less than 60% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is between 5% and 80% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is between 10% and 60% of the first transmission amplitude.

[0040] In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is smaller than the first transmission amplitude by the same amount at the modulation threshold. For example, if the modulation threshold is 80%, then the second transmission amplitude is 80% of the first transmission amplitude.

[0041] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As explained herein, the wireless charging device 548 includes a power supply 550 and a transmission coil 510 (such as...). Figure 1 The transmission coil 110 or other charging components that provide charging energy to accessory devices are located in the data communication processor 506 (such as... Figure 1 The electronic device 100 includes a processor 106. In some embodiments, the electronic device 100 is or includes a wireless charging device 548. The charging device 548 further includes a hardware storage device 552 in data communication with the processor 506. In some embodiments, the hardware storage device includes instructions stored thereon that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform any of the methods described herein. In some embodiments, the hardware storage device is a solid-state hardware storage device. In some embodiments, the hardware storage device is a platen-based storage device. In some embodiments, the hardware storage device is an optical disc drive.

[0042] Industrial applicability

[0043] This disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for docking accessory devices to a wireless charger. In some embodiments, the wireless charger is part of a docking station integrated into another electronic device, such as a peripheral docking station on a laptop computer. In some embodiments, the wireless charger is a dedicated docking station for accessory devices, such as a charging dock for a remote control.

[0044] In some embodiments, a user docks an accessory device to another electronic device to charge the accessory device. In some embodiments, the docking station includes a transmission coil that generates a magnetic field. The magnetic field of the docking station can magnetically couple the transmission coil to a receiving coil of the accessory device to induce a current in the receiving coil of the accessory device.

[0045] In some embodiments, a computer mouse may be docked to a wireless charging pad to charge between usage sessions. In some embodiments, the accessory device is a wearable device, such as a smartwatch. In some embodiments, the accessory device is a stylus. In some embodiments, the accessory device is a keyboard. In some embodiments, the accessory device is a touch-sensitive device, such as a tracking pad, a touchscreen, other capacitive touch-sensitive surfaces, other resistive touch-sensitive surfaces, or other touch-sensitive input mechanisms. In some embodiments, the accessory device is an audio device, such as a wireless speaker, headphones, earphones, or other audio devices capable of generating audio signals to communicate with a user.

[0046] In some embodiments, the electronic device is a computing device, including but not limited to laptop computers, hybrid computers, foldable computers, tablet computers, smartphones, wearable computing devices, or other computing devices. In some embodiments, the electronic device includes a docking station containing a transmission coil. The transmission coil can transmit power from the docking station to an accessory device. When a transmission current is applied to the transmission coil in the docking station, the transmission coil generates a magnetic field extending beyond the outer surface of the docking station. A receiving coil positioned within the magnetic field adjacent to the docking station experiences the magnetic field. The changing magnetic field induces a current in the receiving coil. In some embodiments, the transmission coil generates an RF signal in the near-field communication (NFC) frequency range.

[0047] In some embodiments, the transmitting coil transfers energy from the transmitting coil to the receiving coil for wireless charging and / or communication with an accessory device. In some embodiments, the power source is a battery. In some embodiments, the power source is a capacitor. In some embodiments, the transmitting coil modulates the energy transferred from the transmitting coil to the receiving coil to transmit data from the docking station and / or electronics to the accessory device.

[0048] In some embodiments, a method of communicating via a wireless charging device includes: transmitting a first transmission signal with a first transmission amplitude using a transmission coil; and measuring the receiving load of the transmission signal. When a metal or other ferromagnetic object is near the transmission coil, the first transmission signal induces a current in the object and the transmission coil experiences a receiving load. Measuring the receiving load of the transmission signal allows the wireless charging device to detect the presence of an object near the transmission coil.

[0049] In some embodiments, jitter is caused by current induction through magnetic coupling. Jitter generates multiple signals when an electrical contact or electrical coupling opens or closes. Dejitter detects these multiple signals and ensures that a single opening or closing of the contact affects only a single signal. In some embodiments, the method includes dejittering a response signal from an accessory device to ensure accurate measurement of the received load.

[0050] In some embodiments, the first transmission signal includes a modulated signal for communication with a receiving coil of an accessory device. The transmission coil provides the modulated signal by varying the amplitude of the first transmission signal during its duration. The accessory device can receive and interpret the amplitude modulation of the first transmission signal and subsequently respond to it. The response from the accessory device confirms to the wireless charging device that the object in the magnetic field of the transmission coil is a rechargeable accessory device, and the wireless charging device can begin charging the accessory device.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first transmission signal fails to communicate with the accessory device. In some embodiments, communication fails due to interference from a foreign object. In some embodiments, communication fails due to electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI). In some embodiments, communication fails due to insufficient power of the first transmission signal. In some embodiments, communication fails due to excessive power of the first transmission signal.

[0052] In some embodiments, the method includes: if the transmission coil does not receive a response signal to the first transmission signal, then transmitting a second transmission signal with a second transmission amplitude different from the first transmission amplitude.

[0053] In embodiments where communication fails due to overpower, the first transmitted signal saturates the receiving coil. A ferromagnetic object experiences a current in the presence of a changing magnetic field. However, the current cannot increase indefinitely with increasing magnetic field amplitude. The ferromagnetic object will experience a current up to the saturation point. Because a magnetic field can only induce a current up to the saturation point, changes in magnetic field amplitude beyond the saturation point will not produce a change in current. In some embodiments, magnetic saturation of the receiving coil prevents communication by modulating the magnetic field.

[0054] In embodiments where the receiving coil is magnetically saturated and fails to send a response signal to the transmitting coil of the wireless charging device, the wireless charging device sends a second transmission signal with a second transmission amplitude less than the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is a percentage of the first transmission amplitude within a range having an upper limit, a lower limit, or both, including any value among 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, and 90%, or any value between these limits. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is less than 90% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is less than 80% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is less than 60% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is between 5% and 80% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is between 10% and 60% of the first transmission amplitude.

[0055] In some embodiments, another method for communicating using a wireless charging device includes: transmitting a first transmission signal with a first transmission amplitude using a transmission coil; and measuring the receiving load of the transmission signal. The method further includes: transmitting a second transmission signal with a second transmission amplitude different from the first transmission amplitude if the transmission coil does not receive a response signal to the first transmission signal. The method further includes: transmitting a third transmission signal with a third transmission amplitude different from the first and second transmission amplitudes if the transmission coil does not receive a response signal to the second transmission signal.

[0056] In embodiments where the receiving coil is magnetically saturated and fails to send a response signal to the transmitting coil of the wireless charging device, the wireless charging device sends a third transmission signal having a third transmission amplitude less than the second transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is a percentage of the second transmission amplitude within a range having an upper limit, a lower limit, or both, including any value among 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, and 90%, or any value between these limits. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is less than 90% of the second transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is less than 80% of the second transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is less than 60% of the second transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is between 5% and 80% of the second transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is between 10% and 60% of the second transmission amplitude.

[0057] In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is a percentage of the first transmission amplitude within a range having an upper limit, a lower limit, or both, including any value among 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, and 80%, or any value between these values. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is less than 80% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is less than 70% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is less than 60% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is between 5% and 80% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the third transmission amplitude is between 10% and 60% of the first transmission amplitude.

[0058] In some embodiments, the modulation of the transmitted signal is related to the peak transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the amplitude is modulated by 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, or any value between these values. Modulation depth is the amount of variation induced in the receiving coil of the accessory device. In some embodiments, the modulation depth of data transmitted via the wireless charging device is less than 90% (e.g., the low point of the transmitted signal is 90% of the peak amplitude). In some embodiments, the modulation depth of data transmitted via the wireless charging device is less than 80%. In some embodiments, the modulation depth of data transmitted via the wireless charging device is less than 60%.

[0059] In some embodiments, the wireless charging device reduces the transmission amplitude below the saturation level of the receiving coil, causing the amplitude modulation of the transmitted signal to generate a modulation depth less than a modulation threshold set in the system. In some embodiments, the modulation depth is detected by measuring the receiving load. Because the receiving load is related to the response of the receiving coil to a magnetic field, a stronger magnetic field produces an associated increase in the receiving load. In some embodiments, an increase in transmission amplitude without an increase in receiving load indicates saturation of the receiving coil.

[0060] In some embodiments, another method of communicating using a wireless charging device includes: transmitting a first transmitted signal with a first transmitted amplitude using a transmission coil; and measuring the receiving load of the transmitted signal. The method further includes determining a modulation depth based on the receiving load. If the modulation depth is greater than a modulation threshold, a second transmitted signal is transmitted with a second transmitted amplitude different from the first transmitted amplitude. For example, if the modulation threshold is set to 80% and the modulation depth is determined to be 90%, the method includes transmitting the second transmitted signal with a second amplitude.

[0061] In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is a percentage of the first transmission amplitude within a range having an upper limit, a lower limit, or both, including any value from 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or any value between these values. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is less than 90% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is less than 80% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is less than 60% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is between 5% and 80% of the first transmission amplitude. In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is between 10% and 60% of the first transmission amplitude.

[0062] In some embodiments, the second transmission amplitude is smaller than the first transmission amplitude by the same amount at the modulation threshold. For example, if the modulation threshold is 80%, then the second transmission amplitude is 80% of the first transmission amplitude.

[0063] In some embodiments, the wireless charging device includes a processor in data communication with a power source and a transmission coil. The charging device further includes a hardware storage device in data communication with the processor. In some embodiments, the hardware storage device includes instructions stored thereon that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform any of the methods described herein. In some embodiments, the hardware storage device is a solid-state hardware storage device. In some embodiments, the hardware storage device is a platen-based storage device. In some embodiments, the hardware storage device is an optical disc drive.

[0064] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for charging accessory devices via a wireless charging device, as exemplified by at least the following sections:

[0065] 1. A method for charging an accessory device (e.g., accessory device 108), the method comprising:

[0066] At the charging device (e.g., electronic device 100):

[0067] Transmit a first transmission signal (e.g., transmission signal 432-1) with a first transmission amplitude (e.g., peak amplitude 436);

[0068] Measure (e.g., via power supply 550) the receiving load of the first power signal;

[0069] Determine whether a response signal is received from the accessory device based on the measured received load; and

[0070] If the charging device does not receive the response signal, it transmits a second transmission signal (e.g., transmission signal 432-2) at a second transmission amplitude that is different from the first transmission amplitude and is lower than the first transmission amplitude (e.g., via NFC transmission coil 510) in order to reduce potential magnetic saturation.

[0071] 2. The method as described in any of the preceding sections further includes de-jittering the response signal at the transmission coil.

[0072] 3. As in any of the preceding sections, wherein:

[0073] Determining whether a response signal is received from the accessory device based on the measured receive load includes determining the modulation depth based on the receive load, and

[0074] If the modulation depth is greater than the modulation threshold, the second power signal is transmitted at a second transmission amplitude that is less than the first transmission amplitude.

[0075] 4. The method as described in Section 3, wherein the second transmission amplitude is at least twice the determined modulation depth.

[0076] 5. As in any of the preceding sections, wherein the second transmission amplitude is less than 75% of the first transmission amplitude.

[0077] 6. The method as described in any of the preceding sections further includes: if the transmission coil does not receive a response signal to the second transmission signal, then transmitting a third power signal with a third transmission amplitude.

[0078] 7. The method as described in Section 6, wherein the third transmission amplitude is less than 75% of the second transmission amplitude.

[0079] 8. As in any of the preceding sections, wherein:

[0080] Determining whether a response signal is received from the accessory device based on the measured receive load includes determining whether the receive load indicates that the receive coil is saturated. A method adapted for charging an accessory device (e.g., accessory device 108), the method comprising:

[0081] At the charging device (e.g., electronic device 100):

[0082] Transmit (e.g., via NFC transmission coil 510) a first power signal (e.g., transmission signal 432-1) with a first transmission amplitude (e.g., peak amplitude 436);

[0083] Measure (e.g., via power supply 550) the receiving load of the first power signal;

[0084] The modulation depth (e.g., modulation 438) is determined based on the received load; and

[0085] If the modulation depth is greater than the modulation threshold, the second power signal (e.g., transmission signal 432-2) is transmitted at a second transmission amplitude that is different from the first transmission amplitude.

[0086] 10. The method as described in Section 9, wherein the modulation threshold is 90%.

[0087] 11. The method as described in Section 9 or 10, wherein the second transmission amplitude is less than 75% of the first transmission amplitude.

[0088] 12. The method of any one of sections 9-11, wherein the second transmission amplitude is at least twice the amplitude difference of the determined modulation depth.

[0089] 13. The method of section 12, wherein the second transmission amplitude is smaller than the first transmission amplitude by an amount at least equal to the modulation threshold.

[0090] 14. The method of any one of sections 9-13, further comprising: if the modulation depth is greater than the modulation threshold, then transferring charging energy from the transmission coil.

[0091] 15. A non-transient computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform any of the methods described in sections 1-14.

[0092] 16. A system for wirelessly communicating with an accessory device (e.g., accessory device 108), the system comprising:

[0093] Transmission coil (e.g., NFC transmission coil 510);

[0094] A processor (e.g., processor 506) that is in data communication with the transmission coil;

[0095] A hardware storage device (e.g., storage 552) that communicates with the processor has instructions stored thereon that, when executed by the processor, enable the system to:

[0096] The first power signal is transmitted with a first transmission amplitude using the transmission coil;

[0097] Measure the receiving load of the first transmitted signal;

[0098] Determine whether a response signal is received from the accessory device based on the measured received load; and

[0099] If the transmission coil does not receive the response signal, a second power signal is transmitted at a second transmission amplitude that is different from the first transmission amplitude.

[0100] 17. The system as described in section 16, wherein the transmission coil is a near-field communication coil.

[0101] 18. Systems as described in Section 16 or 17, wherein these instructions further include: wherein the second transmission amplitude is less than 75% of the first transmission amplitude.

[0102] 19. The system as described in any of sections 16-18, wherein these instructions further include: determining the modulation depth of the first power signal.

[0103] 20. The system of section 16 further includes: comparing the modulation depth with a modulation threshold, and transmitting a second power signal if the modulation depth is greater than the modulation threshold.

[0104] The articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to indicate that one or more of the elements are present in the foregoing description. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and indicate that additional elements may be present in addition to those listed. Additionally, it will be understood that references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” in this disclosure are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the described features. For example, any element described with respect to embodiments herein may be combined with any element of any other embodiment described herein. Numbers, percentages, ratios, or other values ​​set forth herein are intended to include such values, as well as other values ​​approximately or approximating the set forth values, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art as covered by embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the set forth values ​​should be interpreted broadly enough to cover values ​​that are at least sufficiently close to those used to perform the desired function or achieve the desired result. The set forth values ​​include at least the variations that would be anticipated in a suitable processing or production process and may include values ​​within 5%, 1%, 0.1%, or 0.01% of the set forth values.

[0105] In view of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will recognize that equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and modifications can be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Equivalent constructions including the "device plus function" claim are intended to cover structures described herein as performing said function, including both structural equivalents operating in the same manner and equivalent structures providing the same function. The applicant's explicit intention is that no claim shall invoke a device plus function or other functional statement unless the term "device for..." appears together with the associated function. Every addition, deletion, and modification to the embodiments within the meaning and scope of the claims shall be accepted by the claims.

[0106] It should be understood that any direction or frame of reference described above is only a relative direction or movement. For example, any reference to “front” and “back” or “top” and “bottom” or “left” and “right” merely describes the relative position or movement of the relevant element.

[0107] This disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. Thus, the scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Changes falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims should be covered by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for charging an accessory device, the method comprising: At the charging equipment: Transmit a first power signal with a first transmission amplitude; Measure the receiving load of the first power signal; Based on the measured received load, it is determined whether a response signal is received from the accessory device and whether the receiving coil of the accessory device is magnetically saturated, wherein if the increase in the first transmission amplitude does not lead to an increase in the measured received load, then it is determined that the receiving coil of the accessory device is magnetically saturated; and If the charging device does not receive the response signal and the receiving coil of the accessory device is magnetically saturated, a second power signal is transmitted at a second transmission amplitude lower than the first transmission amplitude in order to reduce potential magnetic saturation.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising de-jittering the response signal at the transmission coil.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein: Determining whether a response signal is received from the accessory device based on the measured receive load includes determining the modulation depth based on the receive load, and If the modulation depth is greater than the modulation threshold, the second power signal is transmitted at a second transmission amplitude that is less than the first transmission amplitude.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the second transmission amplitude is at least twice the determined modulation depth.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the second transmission amplitude is less than 75% of the first transmission amplitude.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: If the transmission coil does not receive a response signal to the second power signal, a third power signal is transmitted with a third transmission amplitude.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the third transmission amplitude is less than 75% of the second transmission amplitude.

8. The method of claim 3, wherein the modulation threshold is 90% of the first transmission amplitude.

9. The method of claim 3, wherein the second transmission amplitude is less than 75% of the first transmission amplitude.

10. The method of claim 3, wherein the second transmission amplitude is at least twice the determined modulation depth.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the second transmission amplitude is smaller than the first transmission amplitude by an amount at least equal to the modulation threshold.

12. The method of claim 3, further comprising: If the modulation depth is greater than the modulation threshold, charging energy is transferred from the transmission coil.

13. The method of claim 3, further comprising: The second receiving load measures the second power signal; The second modulation depth is determined based on the second receive load; as well as If the second modulation depth is greater than the modulation threshold, then the third power signal is transmitted with a third transmission amplitude that is less than the second transmission amplitude.

14. A system for wirelessly charging an accessory device, the system comprising: Transmission coil; A processor that is in data communication with the transmission coil; A hardware storage device in data communication with the processor, the hardware storage device having instructions stored thereon, the instructions causing the system to: The first power signal is transmitted with a first transmission amplitude using the transmission coil; Measure the receiving load of the first power signal; Based on the measured received load, it is determined whether a response signal is received from the accessory device and whether the receiving coil of the accessory device is magnetically saturated, wherein if the increase in the first transmission amplitude does not lead to an increase in the measured received load, then it is determined that the receiving coil of the accessory device is magnetically saturated; and If the transmission coil does not receive the response signal and the receiving coil of the accessory device is magnetically saturated, a second power signal is transmitted at a second transmission amplitude different from the first transmission amplitude.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the transmission coil is a near-field communication coil.

16. The system of claim 14, wherein the instructions further include: The second transmission amplitude is less than 75% of the first transmission amplitude.

17. The system of claim 14, wherein the instructions further include: Determine the modulation depth of the first power signal.

18. The system of claim 14, further comprising: The modulation depth is compared with the modulation threshold, and if the modulation depth is greater than the modulation threshold, the second power signal is transmitted.

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