Wireless power transmitter for transmitting power at extended gap distance and associated base station

Abstract

A power transmitter is configured to transmit wireless power to a wireless receiver at an extended range, the extended range including a separation gap greater than 8 millimeters (mm). The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit and an inverter circuit configured to receive input power and convert the input power into a power signal. The power transmitter also includes a coil configured to deliver the power signal to a power receiver, the coil formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, the coil defining at least a top face. The power transmitter further includes a shield including a ferrite core and defining a cavity configured such that the ferrite core substantially encloses all of the coil except for the top face of the coil.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to the following: (i) U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 16 / 863,706, filed April 30, 2020, entitled “WIRELESS POWER TRANSMITTERS AND ASSOCIATED BASE STATIONS FOR TRANSMITTING POWER AT EXTENDED SEPARATION DISTANCES”; (ii) U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 16 / 863,691, filed April 20, 2020, entitled “SURFACE MOUNTABLE WIRELESS POWER TRANSMITTER FOR TRANSMISSION AT EXTENDED RANGE”; and (iii) U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 16 / 863,703, filed April 30, 2020, entitled “WIRELESS POWER TRANSMITTERS WITH FRONT END VEHICULAR INPUT”. (iv) U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 16 / 863,698, filed April 30, 2020, entitled “OPERATINGFREQUENCY BASED POWER LEVEL ALTERING IN EXTENDED RANGE WIRELSS POWERTRANSMITTERS”, and (vi) U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 16 / 863,710, filed April 30, 2020, entitled “MULTI-CHANNEL COOLING FOR EXTENDED DISTANCE WIRELESS POWER TRANSMITTER”, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for wireless transmission of electrical power, and more specifically to wireless power transmitters for transmitting power over extended interval distances. Background Technology

[0004] Wireless power transfer systems are used in a variety of applications for the wireless transfer of electrical energy, electrical power signals, electromagnetic energy, electrical data signals, and other known wirelessly transmittable signals. Such systems typically employ inductive wireless power transfer, which occurs when a magnetic field generated by the transmitting element induces an electric field in the receiving element, and thus a current. These transmitting and receiving elements will typically take the form of coiled wires and / or antennas.

[0005] Because some wireless power delivery systems are operable and / or most efficient in the near field, some transmitters may be limited to operability only at a restrictive small gap between the transmitter coil and the receiver coil. Therefore, a typical wireless power transmitter under the Wireless Power Consortium's Qi™ standard may be limited to operability at a maximum coil-to-coil gap (which may be referred to herein as the "gap" or "spacing") ranging from approximately 3 mm to approximately 5 mm. The gap is sometimes referred to as the Z-height or Z-distance and is typically measured as the distance between the transmitter coil and the receiver coil.

[0006] As the adoption of wireless power grows, commercial applications require power transmitters capable of delivering power to power receivers with gaps greater than 3-5 mm. For example, cabinets and / or countertops may be thicker than 3-5 mm, thus preventing wireless charging through such furniture. Consequently, if a wireless power transmitter can only transmit through 3-5 mm of material, the charger may need to be expensively integrated into such infrastructure, such as cabinets, worktops, and / or tables. This need for built-in chargers limits modularity in terms of the placement of power transmitters relative to infrastructure. As another example, modern mobile devices can be used with housings, grippers, and / or wallets that may obstruct wireless power delivery to the device and / or create gaps that impede operability for wireless power delivery. Traditional wireless power transmitter designs may also be unable to meet the requirements of commercial applications (e.g., charging through objects, under-desktops, infrastructure chargers, ruggedized computing devices, etc.) due to the inherent gap limitations of conventional near-field wireless power delivery systems. Increasing the spacing while maintaining satisfactory performance (e.g., thermal performance, transfer / charging speed, efficiency, etc.) will increase the number of commercial applications that can utilize wireless power.

[0007] Furthermore, current standards, regulations, and / or end-user product specifications may require specific power levels for transmission to the power receiver. Therefore, for efficiency, safety, and / or any other power control reasons, the power receiver may have specific power requirements and / or specific limitations.

[0008] summary

[0009] Therefore, there is a need for novel wireless power transmitters capable of attaching to the underside of a surface and properly coupling with a power receiver on the surface. For this purpose, a wireless power transmitter and / or associated base station are needed that can transmit wireless power signals to a power receiver at a gap of approximately 3 mm to approximately 5 mm larger than that of conventional transmitters, allowing the wireless power transmitter to attach to the bottom of the surface and transmit to a receiver at the top of the surface. Such wireless power transmitters are desirable for use in vehicles. Furthermore, wireless power transmitters at these larger gap distances may require and / or can be enhanced via more precise and / or granular power control. In addition, new systems, methods, and apparatus are needed to mitigate any heat generation problems that may arise due to the increased power and / or the associated increase in gap.

[0010] In one embodiment, the overall structure of the transmitter is configured to allow the transmitter to deliver power at operating frequencies from about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz and to achieve the same and / or enhanced power delivery characteristics (e.g., power delivery rate, power delivery speed, power level, power level management, etc.) as conventional transmitters operating in this frequency range. Therefore, the spacing can be increased from about 3-5 mm to about 15 mm or greater using the overall structure of the transmitter. In one embodiment, the transmitter may be configured with a ferrite core that substantially surrounds the transmitter antenna on three sides. The only locations where the ferrite core does not surround the transmitter antenna are at the top (e.g., in the power delivery direction) and where the power lines connect to the transmitter antenna. This overall structure of the transmitter allows for a combination of power delivery characteristics, power level characteristics, self-resonant frequency limitations, design requirements, compliance with required characteristics of standard bodies, bill of materials (BOM) and / or form factor limitations, which allows for power delivery over larger spacing.

[0011] Typically, the transmission of one or more of the electrical energy, electrical power, electromagnetic energy, or electronic data signals from one to another in such coil antennas operates at one operating frequency and / or a range of operating frequencies. The operating frequency can be selected for a variety of reasons, such as, but not limited to, power delivery characteristics, power level characteristics, self-resonant frequency limitations, design requirements, required characteristics for compliance with standard bodies, bill of materials (BOM) and / or form factor limitations, and others. It should be noted that, as is known to those skilled in the art, "self-resonant frequency" generally refers to the resonant frequency of an inductor due to the parasitic characteristics of the component.

[0012] Vehicles can be machines that transport people and / or goods. Exemplary vehicles include automobiles, such as cars, trucks, buses, and other land vehicles. Other examples of vehicles may include airplanes, ships, golf carts, small industrial vehicles, agricultural equipment, construction equipment, marine vehicles, mixed-use vehicles, recreational vehicles, sports vehicles, public transportation vehicles, and trains. Vehicle power sources introduce challenges for designing wireless power transmitters because the input power is susceptible to one or more of power surges, transients, and electrostatic discharge (ESD), which can cause damage and / or failure in one or both of the power transmitter and the power source system itself. Therefore, a single transient voltage spike can potentially damage and / or destroy components of the power transmitter's circuitry. Additionally or alternatively, electrical noise generated by vehicle power sources (even relatively low-energy noise) can cause significant interruptions to digital communications.

[0013] In one embodiment, a vehicle includes a vehicle power input regulator configured to receive input power and filter it into filtered input power. The vehicle power input regulator includes input protection circuitry and a DC / DC voltage converter. An inverter circuit receives the filtered input power and converts it into a power signal. This power signal is provided to a high-Z wireless charger. Therefore, due to the configuration of the vehicle power input regulator, the vehicle power source is protected from power surges, transients, and electrostatic discharge.

[0014] In some examples, power profiles such as those defined by the Qi standard may require more complex and / or precise control compared to conventional wireless power transmitters. Such examples may involve higher power inputs to the wireless power transmitter, and therefore may require more expensive and / or complex voltage regulation mechanisms in the power conditioning system and / or amplifier design. To address this, using the systems and methods disclosed herein, these voltage regulation mechanisms can be removed from the wireless power transmitter, and the wireless power transmitter can control its input power via communication with an external input power source using the control scheme disclosed herein. By utilizing communication with an external power source, the bill of materials (BOM) can be reduced for such power transmitters, resulting in lower-cost power transmitters. Additionally or alternatively, by utilizing these control schemes, power transmitters employing the schemes disclosed herein can have greater compatibility and / or performance when used with readily available power supplies (e.g., Universal Serial Bus (USB) power supplies, lighting power supplies, Qualcomm fast charging devices, USB-C power supplies, USB-PD (USB Power Delivery) power supplies, mini-USB power supplies, proprietary power supplies, and inputs / outputs on electronic devices (e.g., computers, multi-device chargers, car consoles, mobile devices, portable power supplies, batteries, generators, etc.).

[0015] In some of the examples disclosed herein, data determined by a method or process or stored in a database can be used to correlate the power output level with a specific operating frequency within the operating frequency range of the power transmitter via an operating point. Therefore, due to the different power characteristics at different operating points, granular control of the power, voltage, and / or current levels can be achieved by dynamically changing the operating frequency within the operating frequency range to achieve the desired power level for output to the power receiver.

[0016] Furthermore, since increasing the spacing can be associated with an increase in power level, appropriate thermal mitigation should be utilized in new, higher-spacing wireless power transmitters. The systems and apparatus described herein allow for this thermal mitigation, enabling large spacing without damaging one or more of the power transmitter, the device to be powered, and / or the power receiver associated with said device, the surface on which the power transmitter is mounted, or combinations thereof.

[0017] Furthermore, using the power transmitter and / or transmitter antenna disclosed herein as part of a surface-mountable power transmitter allows for greater modularity in transmitter placement, relative to the surface on which the power transmitter is mounted. Additionally, in some examples, the extended spacing distance achieved by the power transmitter disclosed herein allows for the use of surface-mountable power transmitters on thicker surfaces and / or thicker surface materials, compared to power transmitters associated with conventional surfaces.

[0018] Additionally, in some embodiments of this disclosure, a housing is provided that includes two or more airflow openings and / or channels configured to provide airflow to the electronic device while it is being powered and / or charged by the wireless power transmitter disclosed herein. By utilizing the housing disclosed herein, multiple cooling and / or airflow channels can be used to mitigate any thermal issues associated with wireless power transmission via the wireless power transmitter. Such thermal issues may include (but are not limited to) heat generation from the wireless power transmitter, heat generation from components of the wireless power transmitter, heat generation from the housing operationally associated with the wireless power transmitter, heat generation from the mobile device caused by the wireless power transmission, heat generation from the mobile device itself, heat generation from the housing of the mobile device, heat generation from materials near the system, or any combination thereof. Compared to conventional devices, such housings can allow for higher power wireless transmissions, which can allow for faster wireless charging of mobile devices, while also maintaining a larger spacing and / or Z-distance compared to conventional wireless power transmitters.

[0019] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wireless power transfer at operating frequencies selected in the range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit and an inverter circuit configured to receive input power and convert the input power into a power signal. The power transmitter also includes a coil configured to transmit the power signal to a power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, the coil defining at least a top surface. The power transmitter further includes a shield comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

[0020] In one refinement, the shield is an E-core shield, and the cavity is configured as an E-shaped structure.

[0021] In one refinement, the outer edge of the shield extends outward from the outer edge of the coil by approximately 4.5 mm to approximately 6.5 mm.

[0022] In one refinement, the coil has an inner diameter length ranging from about 40 mm to about 50 mm.

[0023] In one refinement, the coil has a thickness ranging from about 15 mm to about 25 mm.

[0024] In one refinement, the coil has a thickness ranging from about 2 mm to about 3 mm.

[0025] In one refinement, the at least one layer includes a first layer and a second layer.

[0026] In further refinement, the Litz line is a double-stranded Litz line.

[0027] In a further refinement, the first layer includes a first number of turns in the range of about 4 to about 5 turns, and the second layer includes a second number of turns in the range of about 4 to about 5 turns.

[0028] In another refinement, the Litz line has a diameter ranging from about 1 mm to about 1.5 mm and includes multiple strands, which include a number of strands ranging from about 80 to about 120.

[0029] In a further refinement, each strand in the multi-stranded pattern has a diameter ranging from approximately 0.05 mm to approximately 0.1 mm.

[0030] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a base station for wireless power transfer at operating frequencies selected in the range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The base station includes an interface surface, control and communication units, and inverter circuitry configured to receive input power and convert the input power into a power signal. The base station also includes a coil configured to transmit the power signal to a power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, the coil defining at least a top surface. The base station further includes a shielding comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity, the cavity being configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

[0031] In one refinement, the interface surface is separated from the coil by an interface gap distance ranging from approximately 8 mm to approximately 10 mm.

[0032] In one refinement, the interface surface extends essentially across the entire top surface of the coil.

[0033] In one refinement, the shield is an E-core shield, and the cavity is configured as an E-shaped structure.

[0034] In one refinement, the base station also includes at least one user feedback mechanism configured to assist the user in aligning a power receiver with an active area for wireless power transmission via a coil, the power receiver being configured to acquire near-field induced power from the coil.

[0035] In a further refinement, at least one user feedback mechanism includes markings on the interface surface indicating the location of the active area.

[0036] In another refinement, at least one user feedback mechanism includes a visual feedback display configured to indicate the correct alignment of the power receiver with the active area.

[0037] In another further refinement, at least one user feedback mechanism includes one or more of a haptic feedback mechanism configured to indicate whether the power receiver is properly aligned with the active area, or an audible feedback mechanism or a haptic feedback mechanism configured to indicate whether the power receiver is properly aligned with the active area.

[0038] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wireless power transfer at operating frequencies selected in the range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit and an inverter circuit configured to receive input power and convert the input power into a power signal. The power transmitter also includes a coil configured to transmit the power signal to a power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including a first layer and a second layer, each of the first and second layers including a corresponding number of turns in the range of about 4 to about 5 turns. The coil defines at least a top surface and has an outer diameter length in the range of about 40 mm to about 50 mm, an inner diameter length in the range of about 15 mm to about 25 mm, and a thickness in the range of about 2 mm to about 3 mm. The power transmitter also includes an E-core shield comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity configured with an E-core such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

[0039] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wireless power transfer at operating frequencies selected in the range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The power transmitter includes a vehicle power input regulator configured to receive input power and filter it into filtered input power, the vehicle power input regulator including input protection circuitry and a DC / DC voltage converter. The power transmitter also includes control and communication circuitry and inverter circuitry that receives the filtered input power and converts it into a power signal. The power transmitter further includes a coil for transmitting the power signal to a power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, each of which has N turns, the coil defining at least a top surface; and a shielding comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

[0040] In one refinement, the input protection circuit includes an overvoltage protection circuit.

[0041] In one refinement, the input protection circuit includes an undervoltage protection circuit.

[0042] In one refinement, the input protection circuit includes an electrostatic discharge protection circuit.

[0043] In one refinement, the input protection circuit includes an electromagnetic interference mitigation circuit.

[0044] In one refinement, the shield is an E-core shield, and the cavity is configured as an E-shaped structure.

[0045] In one refinement, the outer edge of the shield extends outward from the outer edge of the coil by approximately 4.5 mm to approximately 6.5 mm.

[0046] In one refinement, the coil has an inner diameter length ranging from about 40 mm to about 50 mm.

[0047] In one refinement, the coil has a thickness ranging from about 15 mm to about 25 mm.

[0048] In one refinement, the coil has a thickness ranging from about 2 mm to about 3 mm.

[0049] In one refinement, at least two layers are included, comprising a first layer and a second layer.

[0050] In further refinement, the Litz line is a double-stranded Litz line.

[0051] In another refinement, the first layer comprises approximately 4.5 turns, and the second layer comprises approximately 4.5 turns.

[0052] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wireless power transfer at operating frequencies selected in the range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The power transmitter includes a vehicle power input regulator configured to receive input power and filter it into filtered input power, the vehicle power input regulator including input protection circuitry and a DC / DC voltage converter. The power transmitter also includes control and communication circuitry and an inverter circuitry that receives the filtered input power and converts it into a power signal. The power transmitter further includes a coil for transmitting the power signal to a power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, each of which has N turns, the coil defining at least a top surface; and a shielding comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

[0053] In one refinement, the input protection circuit includes an overvoltage protection circuit.

[0054] In one refinement, the input protection circuit includes an undervoltage protection circuit.

[0055] In one refinement, the input protection circuit includes an electrostatic discharge protection circuit.

[0056] In one refinement, the input protection circuit includes an electromagnetic interference mitigation circuit.

[0057] In one refinement, the shield is an E-core shield, and the cavity is configured as an E-shaped structure.

[0058] In one refinement, the outer edge of the shield extends outward from the outer edge of the coil by approximately 4.5 mm to approximately 6.5 mm.

[0059] In one refinement, the coil has an inner diameter length ranging from about 40 mm to about 50 mm.

[0060] In one refinement, the coil has a thickness ranging from about 15 mm to about 25 mm.

[0061] In one refinement, the coil has a thickness ranging from about 2 mm to about 3 mm.

[0062] In one refinement, at least two layers are included, comprising a first layer and a second layer.

[0063] In further refinement, the Litz line is a double-stranded Litz line.

[0064] In a further refinement, the first layer comprises approximately 4.5 turns, and the second layer comprises approximately 4.5 turns.

[0065] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a base station for a wireless power transfer system operating at frequencies selected from about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The base station includes a vehicle power input regulator configured to receive input power and filter it into filtered input power. The vehicle power input regulator includes input protection circuitry and a DC / DC voltage converter. The base station also includes an interface surface, control and communication circuitry, and an inverter circuitry that receives the filtered input power and converts it into a power signal. The base station further includes a coil for transmitting the power signal to a power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, each of which has N turns, the coil defining at least a top surface; and a shielding comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

[0066] In one refinement, the input protection circuit includes an overvoltage protection circuit.

[0067] In one refinement, the input protection circuit includes an undervoltage protection circuit.

[0068] In one refinement, the input protection circuit includes an electrostatic discharge protection circuit.

[0069] In one refinement, the input protection circuit includes an electromagnetic interference mitigation circuit.

[0070] In one refinement, the shield is an E-core shield, and the cavity is configured as an E-shaped structure.

[0071] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wireless power transfer at operating frequencies selected in the range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The power transmitter includes a vehicle power input regulator configured to receive input power and filter it into filtered input power. The vehicle power input regulator includes input protection circuitry and a DC / DC voltage converter, the input protection circuitry including one or more of overvoltage protection circuitry, undervoltage protection circuitry, electrostatic discharge protection circuitry, electromagnetic interference mitigation circuitry, and any combination thereof. The power transmitter also includes control and communication circuitry and inverter circuitry that receives the filtered input power and converts it into a power signal. The power transmitter further includes a coil for transmitting the power signal to a power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, each of the at least one layer having N turns, the coil defining at least a top surface; and a shielding comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity configured with an E-core arrangement such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil. The coil has an outer diameter length in the range of about 40 mm to about 50 mm, an inner diameter length in the range of about 15 mm to about 25 mm, and a thickness in the range of about 2 mm to about 3 mm.

[0072] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wireless power transfer at an operating frequency selected in the range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit configured to provide a power control signal to control the power level of a power signal configured for transmission to a power receiver. The power transmitter also includes an inverter circuit configured to receive direct current (DC) power from a power source external to the power transmitter and convert the input power into a power signal. The power transmitter further includes a coil configured to transmit the power signal to the power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, the coil defining at least a top surface; and a shield including a ferrite core and defining a cavity configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

[0073] In one refinement, the control and communication unit is also configured to receive a power request signal from a power receiver and determine a power control signal based on the power request signal.

[0074] In one refinement, the control and communication unit is configured to provide a power control signal to a power source external to the power transmitter, and the power source is configured to configure input DC power to generate the supplied DC power based on the power control signal and to supply the DC power to the inverter circuit.

[0075] In a further refinement, the power supply includes a voltage regulator and a power controller, the power controller being configured to receive a power control signal, generate a voltage regulation command based on the power control signal for changing the DC voltage of the DC power, and provide the voltage regulation command to the voltage regulator to control the DC voltage of the DC power.

[0076] In a further refinement, the voltage regulation command includes a boost command or a buck command for the voltage regulator, the boost and buck commands having a step level, which is the voltage change at the DC voltage at which the voltage regulator is configured to increase or decrease the DC power. In a further refinement, the step level is in the range of approximately 10 millivolts (mV) to approximately 500 mV.

[0077] In yet another further refinement, the step level is approximately 200 mV.

[0078] In a further refinement, the power signal is an alternating current (AC) power signal with a root mean square (RMS) voltage, and the control and communication circuitry is configured to generate a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal of AC frequency for configuring the power signal at the operating frequency, which is modified by a duty cycle change configured to reduce the RMS voltage of the power signal.

[0079] In a further refinement, the output power has a root mean square voltage that is less than the boosted or reduced DC voltage.

[0080] In one refinement, the control and communication unit is configured to generate a pulse width modulated signal at an AC frequency for configuring a power signal at an operating frequency, the pulse width modulated signal being modified by a duty cycle change configured to alter the amount of power transmitted to the power receiver over a period of time.

[0081] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wireless power transfer at an operating frequency selected in the range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit configured to provide a power signal to a power source external to the power transmitter for controlling the power level of a power signal transmitted to a power receiver, the power source being configured to configure direct current (DC) power based on a power control signal. The power transmitter also includes an inverter circuit configured to receive DC power from the power source external to the power transmitter and convert the input power into a power signal. The power transmitter further includes a coil configured to transmit the power signal to the power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, the coil defining at least a top surface; and a shield comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity, the cavity being configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

[0082] In one refinement, the shield is an E-core shield, and the cavity is configured as an E-shaped structure.

[0083] In one refinement, the outer edge of the shield extends outward from the outer edge of the coil by approximately 4.5 mm to approximately 6.5 mm.

[0084] In one refinement, the coil has an inner diameter length ranging from about 40 mm to about 50 mm.

[0085] In one refinement, the coil has a thickness ranging from about 15 mm to about 25 mm.

[0086] In one refinement, the at least one layer includes a first layer and a second layer.

[0087] In a further refinement, the first layer includes a first number of turns in the range of about 4 to about 5 turns, and the second layer includes a second number of turns in the range of about 4 to about 5 turns.

[0088] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a system for wireless power transfer at operating frequencies selected in the range from about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The system includes a power transmitter and a power supply. The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit configured to provide a power control signal for controlling the power level of a power signal transmitted to a power receiver; and an inverter circuit configured to receive direct current (DC) power and convert the input power into a power signal. The power transmitter also includes a coil configured to transmit the power signal to the power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, the coil defining at least a top surface; and a shield including a ferrite core and defining a cavity such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil. The power supply is external to the power transmitter and is configured to configure DC power based on the power control signal. The power supply includes a voltage regulator and a power controller. The power controller is configured to receive an input power signal and generate a voltage regulation command for changing the DC input power based on a power control signal. The voltage regulation command includes a boost command or a buck command for the DC / DC converter. The boost command and buck command have a step level, which is a voltage change that the voltage regulator is configured to increase or decrease the DC voltage of the DC power. The voltage regulation command is provided to the voltage regulator to control the DC voltage of the DC power.

[0089] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wireless power transfer at an operating frequency selected from an operating range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit configured to provide a power control signal to control the power level of a power signal configured for transmission to a power receiver, and includes a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal generator for determining and selecting the operating frequency from the operating frequency range. The power transmitter also includes an inverter circuit configured to receive direct current (DC) power and convert the input power into a power signal; a coil configured to transmit the power signal to the power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, the coil defining at least a top surface; and a shield including a ferrite core and defining a cavity, the cavity being configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

[0090] In one refinement, the control and communication unit is also configured to receive a power request signal from a power receiver and determine a power control signal based on the power request signal.

[0091] In one refinement, the control and communication unit is configured to provide a power control signal to a power source external to the power transmitter, and the power source is configured to configure input DC power to generate the supplied DC power based on the power control signal and to supply the DC power to the inverter circuit.

[0092] In a further refinement, the power supply includes a voltage regulator and a power controller, the power controller being configured to receive a power control signal, generate a voltage regulation command based on the power control signal for changing the DC voltage of the DC power, and provide the voltage regulation command to the voltage regulator to control the DC voltage of the DC power.

[0093] In a further refinement, the control and communication circuitry is configured to generate multiple frequency-shifted signals for the power input signal. These frequency-shifted signals are provided to the PWM signal generator and configured to change the power level of the inverter circuit's power signal by shifting the operating frequency within the operating frequency range.

[0094] In another further refinement, the voltage regulation command includes selecting a base DC voltage for assigning DC power as DC power, and the power supply is configured to configure DC power with the base DC voltage for the DC voltage, wherein the base voltage is selected from one or more preset DC power voltage levels.

[0095] In a further refinement, the preset DC power voltage includes one or more of 5 volts (V), 9V, 15V, or 20V.

[0096] In another further refinement, one or more basic voltage levels include a first basic voltage level and a second basic voltage level, the first basic voltage level being electrically associated with a first basic power level and the second basic voltage level being electrically associated with a second basic power level, and the frequency shift being determined such that the AC output power level of the power signal is greater than the first basic power level and less than the second basic power level.

[0097] In one refinement, the control and communication circuitry is configured to generate multiple frequency-shifted signals for the power input signal. These frequency-shifted signals are provided to a PWM signal generator and configured to change the power level of the inverter circuitry's power signal by shifting the operating frequency within the operating frequency range.

[0098] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wireless power transfer at operating frequencies selected in the range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit configured to provide a power signal to a power source external to the power transmitter for controlling the power level of a power signal transmitted to a power receiver. This power source is configured to configure direct current (DC) power based on a power control signal. The control and communication unit also includes a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal generator for determining and selecting an operating frequency from the operating frequency range. The power transmitter further includes an inverter circuit configured to receive DC power from the power source external to the power transmitter and convert the input power into a power signal; a coil configured to transmit the power signal to the power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, the coil defining at least a top surface; and a shield comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity, the cavity being configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

[0099] In one refinement, the shield is an E-core shield, and the cavity is configured as an E-shaped structure.

[0100] In one refinement, the outer edge of the shield extends outward from the outer edge of the coil by approximately 4.5 mm to approximately 6.5 mm.

[0101] In one refinement, the coil has an inner diameter length ranging from about 40 mm to about 50 mm.

[0102] In one refinement, the coil has a thickness ranging from about 15 mm to about 25 mm.

[0103] In one refinement, the at least one layer includes a first layer and a second layer.

[0104] In a further refinement, the first layer includes a first number of turns in the range of about 4 to about 5 turns, and the second layer includes a second number of turns in the range of about 4 to about 5 turns.

[0105] In another aspect of this disclosure, a system for wireless power transfer at an operating frequency selected from an operating range, the operating frequency range being from about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz, is disclosed. The system includes a power transmitter and a power supply. The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit configured to provide a power control signal for controlling the power level of a power signal configured for transmission to a power receiver, and includes a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal generator for determining and selecting the operating frequency from the operating frequency range. The power transmitter also includes an inverter circuit configured to receive direct current (DC) power and convert the input power into a power signal; a coil configured to transmit the power signal to the power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, the coil defining at least a top surface; and a shield including a ferrite core and defining a cavity, the cavity being configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds all of the coil except for the top surface of the coil. The power supply is an external power source to the power transmitter, the power supply being configured to configure DC power based on the power control signal. The power supply includes a voltage regulator to configure DC power to have a base DC voltage for DC power; and a power controller configured to receive an input power signal, generate a voltage regulation instruction for changing the DC power based on the power control signal, the voltage regulation instruction including an instruction for selecting a base DC voltage for assigning as DC power, the base DC voltage being selected from one or more preset DC power voltage levels, and providing the voltage regulation instruction to the voltage regulator to configure the DC voltage for DC power.

[0106] In one refinement, the preset DC power voltage includes one or more of 5 volts (V), 9V, 15V, or 20V.

[0107] In one refinement, one or more basic voltage levels include a first basic voltage level and a second basic voltage level, the first basic voltage level being electrically associated with a first basic power level and the second basic voltage level being electrically associated with a second basic power level, and a frequency shift is determined such that the AC output power level of the power signal is greater than the first basic power level and less than the second basic power level.

[0108] In one refinement, the control and communication circuitry is configured to generate multiple frequency-shifted signals for the power input signal. These frequency-shifted signals are provided to a PWM signal generator and configured to change the power level of the inverter circuitry's power signal by shifting the operating frequency within the operating frequency range.

[0109] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wireless power transfer at operating frequencies selected in the range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed. The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit, inverter circuitry, and a transmitter antenna configured to receive input power and convert the input power into a power signal. The transmitter antenna also includes a coil configured to transmit the power signal to a power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, the coil defining at least a top surface; and a shielding comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil. The power transmitter also includes a surface-mountable housing substantially at least connected to the transmitter antenna, and the surface-mountable housing includes a connector system configured to mount the transmitter antenna to at least the bottom side of a structural surface, such that the transmitter antenna is configured to couple with the receiver antenna of the power receiver when the receiver antenna is adjacent to the top side of the structural surface.

[0110] In one refinement, at least a portion of the surface-mountable housing also includes a heat sink configured to rest at least partially beneath the transmitter antenna when the power transmitter is attached to the structural surface, and configured to direct heat generated by the power transmitter away from the structural surface.

[0111] In a further refinement, the power transmitter also includes a transmitter electronic circuit board that includes components of one or more of control and communication circuitry, inverter circuitry, or combinations thereof, and a heat sink is configured to dissipate heat generated by one or more of the electronic circuit board or components located on the electronic circuit board away from the structural surface.

[0112] In a further refinement, the power transmitter also includes a thermal interface material disposed between the electronic circuit board and the heat sink and configured to guide heat from the electronic circuit board to the heat sink.

[0113] In a further refinement, thermal interface materials include one or more of the following: thermal adhesives, thermal bonding agents, thermal gap filters, thermal pads, heat transfer tapes, phase change materials, metal thermal interfaces, or combinations thereof.

[0114] In another further refinement, the surface-mountable housing also includes an antenna housing that substantially surrounds the sidewalls of the transmitter antenna and is connected to and positioned between the heat sink and the structural surface.

[0115] In another further refinement, the heat sink defines one or more cutouts, each of which is configured to increase the outer surface area of ​​the heat sink.

[0116] In another further refinement, the heat sink is at least partially formed of aluminum.

[0117] In one refinement, the thickness between the bottom side and the top side of the structural surface is in the range of about 5 mm to about 15 mm, and the surface-mountable housing is configured to be directly mounted on the bottom side of the structural code via a connection system.

[0118] In one refinement, the surface thickness is defined as the thickness between the bottom side and the top side of the structural surface, the structural member defining a hole, the hole defining a ceiling and a hole opening, the hole thickness being defined as the thickness between the ceiling and the hole opening, the hole thickness being less than the surface thickness, and the surface mountable housing being configured to be mounted to the ceiling of the hole in the structural surface.

[0119] In further refinement, the surface thickness ranges from about 20 mm to about 60 mm, while the hole thickness ranges from about 5 mm to about 50 mm.

[0120] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a surface-mountable power transmitter for wireless power transfer at operating frequencies selected from about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz is disclosed, the surface-mountable power transmitter being configured to be mounted on the bottom side of a structural surface. The surface-mountable power transmitter includes a control and communication unit, inverter circuitry, and a transmitter antenna configured to receive input power and convert the input power into a power signal. The transmitter antenna also includes a coil configured to transmit the power signal to a power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer, the coil defining at least a top surface; and a shielding comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity, the cavity being configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil. The power transmitter also includes a surface-mountable housing substantially connected at least to the transmitter antenna, and the surface-mountable housing includes a connector system configured to mount the transmitter antenna to at least the bottom side of the structural surface, such that the transmitter antenna is configured to couple with the receiver antenna of the power receiver when the receiver antenna is adjacent to the top side of the structural surface.

[0121] In one refinement, the shield is an E-core shield, and the cavity is configured as an E-shaped structure.

[0122] In one refinement, the at least one layer includes a first layer and a second layer.

[0123] In further refinement, the Litz line is a double-stranded Litz line.

[0124] In a further refinement, the first layer includes a first number of turns in the range of about 4 to about 5 turns, and the second layer includes a second number of turns in the range of about 4 to about 5 turns.

[0125] In one refinement, the outer edge of the shield extends outward from the outer edge of the coil by approximately 4.5 mm to approximately 6.5 mm.

[0126] In one refinement, the coil has an inner diameter length ranging from about 40 mm to about 50 mm.

[0127] In one refinement, the coil has a thickness ranging from about 15 mm to about 25 mm.

[0128] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a surface-mountable housing is disclosed for wireless power transfer of a power transmitter in an operating frequency range selected from about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz, the power transmitter including at least a transmitter antenna. The surface-mountable housing includes a connector system configured to mount the transmitter antenna to at least the bottom side of a structural surface, such that the transmitter antenna is configured to couple with a receiver antenna of a power receiver when a receiver antenna is near the top side of the structural surface. The surface-mountable housing also includes a heat sink configured to at least partially rest beneath the transmitter antenna when the power transmitter is attached to the structural surface and configured to direct heat generated by the power transmitter away from the structural surface; and an antenna housing substantially surrounding the sidewalls of the transmitter antenna, the antenna housing being connected to the heat sink and positioned between the heat sink and the structural surface.

[0129] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wirelessly delivering power to a mobile device having a power receiver, the power receiver being coupled to the power transmitter, the mobile device defining at least a front surface and a rear surface of the mobile device. The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit; an inverter circuit configured to receive input power and convert the input power into a power signal; and a transmitter antenna and a housing. The transmitter antenna includes at least one coil configured to transmit the power signal to the power receiver, the at least one coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer; and a shielding comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds all of the at least one coil except for the top surface of the at least one coil. The housing is configured to at least accommodate a transmitter antenna and define a front surface configured to house a mobile device for wireless power transfer; an airflow opening configured to provide airflow; a first airflow channel configured to provide at least some of the airflow via one or more of the airflow opening being in fluid communication with the airflow opening and being close to the front surface or the rear surface of the mobile device; a protrusion extending at least partially outward from the front surface, the protrusion having a top surface that forms an angle with the front surface that is less than about 180 degrees and greater than about 0 degrees; and a second airflow channel configured to provide at least some of the airflow via one or more of the airflow opening being in fluid communication with the airflow opening and being close to the top surface of the protrusion, the top surface of the mobile device, and any combination thereof.

[0130] In one refinement, the power transmitter further includes a fan configured to supply at least some of the airflow to an airflow opening, and the housing further defines a fan cavity configured to at least accommodate the fan and to be in fluid communication with the airflow opening to supply at least some of the airflow to the airflow opening.

[0131] In one refinement, the housing further defines a rear surface, wherein the thickness of the housing is defined between the front and rear surfaces, and wherein the first airflow passage includes a first airflow passage cavity, the first airflow passage cavity being a cavity that at least partially extends about the thickness.

[0132] In a further refinement, the first airflow passage also includes a first channel opening, which is in fluid communication with at least the airflow opening, and is configured to provide at least some of the airflow from the airflow opening to one or more of the rear surfaces of the first airflow passage cavity or the mobile device.

[0133] In a further refinement, the first channel opening is defined as a first protrusion opening in the top surface of the protrusion, and the first protrusion opening is in fluid communication with the airflow opening at least.

[0134] In another further refinement, the first airflow passage also includes at least one vent in fluid communication with the first airflow passage cavity, the at least one vent being configured to mitigate heat from the rear surface of the mobile device.

[0135] In a further refinement, at least one vent opens to the environment outside the housing and is configured to facilitate one or more external airflows entering or leaving the housing.

[0136] In another further refinement, the first airflow channel cavity is configured to mechanically receive a mechanical body associated with the mobile device, wherein, for the purpose of wireless power transfer, the reception of the mechanical body at least partially aligns the transmitter antenna with the receiver antenna of the mobile device, and the mechanical body is one or more of a mechanical component of the mobile device, a peripheral component associated with the mobile device, or any combination thereof.

[0137] In one refinement, the second airflow channel includes a second channel opening that is in fluid communication with at least an airflow opening, the second channel opening being configured to provide at least some of the airflow from the airflow opening to the front surface of the mobile device.

[0138] In one refinement, the housing further defines a housing base structure and a housing stand structure, the housing stand structure including a front surface and a rear surface separated by a thickness of the housing stand structure, the housing base structure including a top surface and a bottom surface separated by a thickness of the housing base structure, the housing stand structure and the housing base structure being positioned such that at least partially through a first portion of the rear surface and a second portion of the top surface form an angle greater than about 0 degrees and less than about 180 degrees.

[0139] In one refinement, the angle is configured such that when the mobile device is placed close to the front surface, the front surface of the mobile device is at an appropriate viewing angle relative to the user of the mobile device.

[0140] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wireless power transfer to a mobile device having a power receiver, the power receiver being coupled to the power transmitter, the mobile device defining at least a front surface and a rear surface of the mobile device. The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit; an inverter circuit configured to receive input power and convert the input power into a power signal; and a transmitter antenna and a housing. The transmitter antenna includes at least one coil configured to transmit the power signal to the power receiver, the at least one coil being formed of wound Litz wire and including at least one layer; and a shield including a ferrite core and defining a cavity configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds all of the at least one coil except for its top surface. The housing is configured to at least accommodate the transmitter antenna and define a top surface and a bottom surface, on which the mobile device is placed for wireless power transfer, wherein the thickness of the housing is at least partially defined between the top and bottom surfaces. The housing also defines an airflow opening configured to provide airflow; a first airflow passage configured to provide at least some of the airflow via one or more of a front surface or a rear surface of the mobile device in fluid communication with the airflow opening; a protrusion extending at least partially outward from the front surface, the protrusion having a top surface of the protrusion forming an angle with the front surface that is less than about 180 degrees and greater than about 0 degrees; and a second airflow passage configured to provide at least some of the airflow via one or more of a top surface of the protrusion, a top surface of the mobile device, and any combination thereof in fluid communication with the airflow opening.

[0141] In one refinement, the airflow opening is configured to be in fluid communication with an external airflow source, which supplies at least some of the airflow to the airflow opening.

[0142] In a more detailed definition, the external airflow source is the airflow source that is associated with the operation of the vehicle.

[0143] In one refinement, the power transmitter further includes a fan configured to supply at least some of the airflow to an airflow opening, and the housing further defines a fan cavity for at least accommodating the fan, and the fan cavity is in fluid communication with the airflow opening to supply at least some of the airflow to the airflow opening.

[0144] In one refinement, the first airflow channel includes a first airflow channel cavity, which is a cavity extending at least partially along the thickness of the housing from the top surface and toward the bottom surface.

[0145] In a further refinement, the first airflow channel also includes a first channel opening, which is in fluid communication with at least the airflow opening, and the first channel opening provides at least some of the airflow from the airflow opening to one or more of the first airflow channel cavity or the rear surface of the mobile device, and combinations thereof.

[0146] In another further refinement, the first channel opening is defined as a first protrusion opening in the top surface of the protrusion, the first protrusion opening being in fluid communication with at least the airflow opening.

[0147] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a power transmitter for wireless power transfer to a mobile device having a power receiver, the power receiver being coupled to the power transmitter, the mobile device defining at least a front surface and a rear surface of the mobile device. The power transmitter includes a control and communication unit; an inverter circuit configured to receive input power and convert the input power into a power signal; and a transmitter antenna and a housing. The transmitter antenna includes a transmitter coil array including a top surface and two or more transmitter coils configured to transmit a power signal to the power receiver. The two or more transmitter coils are formed by wound Litz wire and include at least one layer and a shield. The shield includes a ferrite core and defines a cavity, the cavity being configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds all of the at least one coil except for the top surface of the at least one coil. The housing is configured to at least accommodate the transmitter antenna and defines a top surface and a bottom surface, on which the mobile device is placed for wireless power transfer, wherein the thickness of the housing is at least partially defined between the top and bottom surfaces. The housing also defines an airflow opening configured to provide airflow; a first airflow passage configured to provide at least some of the airflow via one or more of a front surface or a rear surface of the mobile device in fluid communication with the airflow opening; a protrusion extending at least partially outward from the front surface, the protrusion having a top surface that forms an angle with the front surface that is less than about 180 degrees and greater than about 0 degrees; and a second airflow passage configured to provide at least some of the airflow via one or more of a top surface of the protrusion, a top surface of the mobile device, and any combination thereof in fluid communication with the airflow opening.

[0148] In one refinement, the ferrite core includes one or more ferrite cores that occupy the space between the Litz wires of the two or more coils within one or more inner diameters of each of the two or more transmitter coils, forming an outer wall for surrounding the outer diameter of each of the two or more transmitter coils.

[0149] These and other aspects and features of the invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0150] Brief description of the attached figures

[0151] Figure 1A This is an exemplary block diagram of an embodiment of a wireless power transfer system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0152] Figure 1B This is an exemplary block diagram of another embodiment of a wireless power transfer system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0153] Figure 2A It is based on Figure 1A And the embodiments of this disclosure can be combined Figure 1A-Figure 1B An exemplary block diagram of a power transmitter used in a wireless power delivery system.

[0154] Figure 2B It is based on Figure 1B And the embodiments of this disclosure can be combined Figure 1A-Figure 1B An exemplary block diagram of another power transmitter used in a wireless power delivery system.

[0155] Figure 3 It is based on Figure 1A - Figure 2B and embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 2A , Figure 2B An exemplary block diagram of the components of the control and communication system for the power transmitter.

[0156] Figure 4 It is based on Figure 1A - Figure 3 and embodiments of this disclosure Figure 3 An exemplary block diagram of the components of the sensing system of the control and communication system of the power transmitter.

[0157] Figure 5A It is based on Figure 1A and Figure 2A and embodiments of this disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 2A An exemplary block diagram of the components of a power transmitter's power conditioning system.

[0158] Figure 5B It is based on Figure 1A and Figure 2B and embodiments of this disclosure Figure 1A and Figure 2B An exemplary block diagram of the components of a power transmitter's power conditioning system.

[0159] Figure 5C It is based on Figure 1A-Figure 2B and embodiments of this disclosure Figure 1A-Figure 2B An exemplary block diagram of the components of the power regulation system of any of the power transmitters.

[0160] Figure 6 This is an exemplary block diagram of another embodiment of a wireless power transfer system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0161] Figure 7 It is based on Figures 1A-6 And the embodiments of this disclosure can be combined Figure 6 An exemplary block diagram of another wireless power transmitter used in a wireless power delivery system.

[0162] Figure 8 This is an exemplary voltage plot illustrating a transient voltage surge according to this disclosure.

[0163] Figure 9A It is based on Figure 1A - Figure 5C And the present disclosure for Figures 1A-5C An exemplary block diagram of the configuration of a vehicle power input regulator for a power transmitter.

[0164] Figure 9B It is based on Figure 1A - Figure 5C And the present disclosure for Figures 1A-5C An exemplary block diagram of another configuration of the vehicle power input regulator for the power transmitter.

[0165] Figure 9C It is based on Figure 1A - Figure 5C And the present disclosure for Figures 1A-5C An exemplary block diagram of another configuration of the vehicle power input regulator for the power transmitter.

[0166] Figure 9D It is based on Figures 1A-5C And the present disclosure for Figures 1A-5C An exemplary block diagram of another configuration of the vehicle power input regulator for the power transmitter.

[0167] Figure 9E It is based on Figures 1A-5C And the present disclosure for Figures 1A-5C An exemplary block diagram of another configuration of the vehicle power input regulator for the power transmitter.

[0168] Figure 10 It is the basis for the explanation Figures 1A to 5C , Figures 9A-9E And the present disclosure for Figures 9A-9E An exemplary block diagram of an exemplary component of the input protection circuit of any of the vehicle power input regulators.

[0169] Figure 11A It is based on Figures 1A-5C And the present disclosure for Figures 1A-5C Components of the power transmitter and Figure 1A-Figure 1B An exemplary block diagram of the external power supply for a wireless power delivery system.

[0170] Figure 11B It is the basis for the explanation Figures 1A-11A And the power transmitter disclosed herein, and Figure 11A An exemplary block diagram of a component similar to the one shown, but with further explanation of the duty cycle offset during the generation of the power signal.

[0171] Figure 11C It is the basis for the explanation Figures 1A-11B And this disclosure, and Figure 11A and Figure 11B An exemplary block diagram of one or more of the transmitter controller, pulse width modulation generator, or other components associated with components and / or functions.

[0172] Figure 12A It is based on Figure 1A - Figure 5C An exemplary block diagram of the components for the power transmitter of Figures 1-5 and the external power supply for the wireless power delivery system of Figure 1.

[0173] Figure 12B It is the basis for the explanation Figures 1A-5C , Figure 12A and the power transmitter disclosed herein Figure 12A An exemplary block diagram of a component similar to the one shown, but with further explanation of the duty cycle offset during the generation of the power signal.

[0174] Figure 12C It is the basis for the explanation Figures 1A-5C , Figures 12A-12B And this disclosure and Figure 12A and Figure 12B An exemplary block diagram of one or more of the transmitter controller, pulse width modulation generator, or other components associated with components and / or functions.

[0175] Figure 12D It is the basis for the explanation Figures 1A-5C , Figures 12A-12C And this disclosure and Figures 12A-12C Another exemplary block diagram of a transmitter controller, a pulse width modulation generator, or a component thereof, or a component associated with other components and / or functions.

[0176] Figure 13 It is based on Figures 1A-5C , Figures 12A-12D and the present disclosure for control Figures 1A to 5C and Figures 12A-12D The power output in the wireless power transmitter and utilize Figures 12A-12D A block diagram illustrating the method of explaining the components.

[0177] Figure 14 It is based on Figures 1A-13 And Figure 1 of this disclosure- Figure 13 An exemplary electrical schematic diagram of the components of a power transmitter.

[0178] Figure 15 It is based on Figures 1A-14 Figure 1 and the embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 14 A perspective view of the shape of the transmitter coil of the power transmitter.

[0179] Figure 16 It is based on Figures 1A-15 A cross-sectional view of the components of the base station associated with the power transmitter 20 disclosed herein.

[0180] Figure 17 It is based on Figures 1A-16 And the embodiments of this disclosure Figures 1A-16 A perspective view of the shield associated with the transmitter coil.

[0181] Figure 18A It is based on Figures 1A-5C And this disclosure Figures 1A-17 The transmitter coil and Figure 16 and Figure 17 A perspective view of the shielded area.

[0182] Figure 18B It is based on Figures 1A to 18A And this disclosure Figures 1A-18A The transmitter coil and Figure 16 and Figure 17 The shielded exploded perspective view.

[0183] Figure 19A It is based on Figure 1A - Figure 18 and this disclosure Figure 1A - An exemplary block diagram of an embodiment of the base station in Figure 18.

[0184] Figure 19B It is based on Figure 1A - Figure 18 and this disclosure Figure 1A - An exemplary block diagram of another embodiment of the base station in Figure 18.

[0185] Figure 20 It is by Figures 1A-19B Readouts of actual simulations of the magnetic fields generated by the coils and / or transmitters explained in the text and disclosed herein.

[0186] Figure 21A It is based on Figures 1A-20 And the present disclosure for use with Figures 1A-20 A perspective view of an exemplary array of transmitter coils used in systems, methods, and apparatuses, each of which is at least partially based on Figures 1A-20It is constructed using coils and / or antennas.

[0187] Figure 21B It is based on Figures 1A to 21A And this disclosure Figure 21A A cross-sectional side view of the transmitter coil array.

[0188] Figure 22 It is based on Figures 1A-21B And the present disclosure for Figure 21A and Figure 21B A perspective view of the shield of an exemplary array of transmitter coils.

[0189] Figure 23A It is based on Figures 1A-22 And this disclosure Figures 1A to 22 Systems, methods and apparatus and / or related to Figures 1A-22 Exemplary housings of systems, methods, and apparatuses that are operationally associated with them, and those made of Figures 1A-22 A perspective view of a system, method, and apparatus for powering and / or charging a mobile device.

[0190] Figure 23B It is based on Figures 1A-23A And this disclosure Figure 23A The casing and front view of the mobile device.

[0191] Figure 24A It is based on Figures 1A-23B And this disclosure Figures 23A-23B A perspective view of the casing and mobile device, where the casing is interpreted as transparent to show the components located within it.

[0192] Figure 24B It is based on Figures 1A-24A And this disclosure Figures 20-24A A front view of the housing and mobile device, wherein the housing and mobile device are interpreted as transparent in order to show the components located inside the housing.

[0193] Figure 25 It is based on Figures 1A-24B And this disclosure Figures 20-24B Side cross-sectional view of the casing and mobile device.

[0194] Figure 26A It is based on Figures 1A-25 And this disclosure Figures 23A-25 Side perspective view of the casing (without mobile device).

[0195] Figure 26B It is based on Figures 1A-26A And this disclosure Figures 23A-25 The other side perspective view of the casing shows no mobile device and further explains the air duct openings.

[0196] Figure 27A It is based on Figures 1A-26B And this disclosure Figures 1A to 22 Systems, methods and apparatus and / or related to Figures 1A-22 Another exemplary housing operationally associated with the system, method, and apparatus, and by Figures 1A-22 A perspective view of a mobile device powered and / or charged by a system, method, and apparatus, the housing including... Figures 23A-26B It has similar features to the outer shell.

[0197] Figure 27B It is based on Figures 1A-27A And this disclosure Figure 24A Top view of the casing and mobile device.

[0198] Figure 28A It is based on Figures 1A-27B And this disclosure Figures 26A-26B Side cross-sectional view of the casing and mobile device.

[0199] Figure 28B It is based on Figures 1A-28A And Figure 27 of this disclosure and Figure 28A A side cross-sectional view of the housing and mobile device with an external airflow source.

[0200] Figure 29A It is based on Figures 1A-20 And the use of Figure 1 in this disclosure Figure 20 The top perspective view of the surface on which the power transmitter, transmitter antenna, or combination thereof is mounted, as described in the figure.

[0201] Figure 29B It is based on Figures 1A-20 , Figure 29A And this disclosure Figure 29A A perspective bottom view of the surface where a power transmitter can be mounted.

[0202] Figure 29C It is based on Figures 1A-20 , Figure 29B And this disclosure Figures 29A-29B An exploded perspective view of the surface on which a power transmitter can be mounted.

[0203] Figure 29D It is based on Figures 1A-20 , Figures 29A-29C And this disclosure Figures 29A-29C A side section view of the surface on which a power transmitter can be mounted.

[0204] Figure 29E It is based on Figures 1A-20 , Figures 29A-29D and this disclosure Figures 29A-29D A bottom view of the surface where a power transmitter can be mounted.

[0205] Figure 30 It is based on Figures 1A to 20 , Figures 29A-29E and this disclosure Figures 29A-29E A cross-sectional side view of the surface on which a power transmitter can be mounted, which explains... Figures 29A-29E An exemplary use of a power transmitter that can be mounted on the surface relative to the surface.

[0206] Figure 31A It is based on Figures 1A-20 , Figures 29A-29E and this disclosure Figures 29A-29E A cross-sectional side view of the surface on which a power transmitter can be mounted, which explains... Figures 29A-29E Another exemplary use of the surface is that a power transmitter can be mounted on the surface.

[0207] Figure 31B It is based on Figures 1A-20 , Figures 29A-29E , Figure 31A And this disclosure Figure 31A The illustrated exemplary use of the bottom perspective view shows the surface on which a power transmitter can be mounted.

[0208] Figure 32 It is based on Figures 1A-20 , Figures 29A-29E and this disclosure Figures 29A-29E A cross-sectional side view of the surface on which a power transmitter can be mounted, which explains... Figures 29A-29E Another exemplary use of the surface is to mount a power transmitter relative to the surface.

[0209] Figure 33 It is based on Figure 1A-Figure 32 And a flowchart of an exemplary method for designing a power transmitter disclosed herein.

[0210] Figure 34 It is based on Figures 1A-33 And a flowchart of an exemplary method for manufacturing a power transmitter disclosed herein.

[0211] While the following detailed description will be given with reference to certain illustrative embodiments, it should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and are sometimes illustrated and explained in partial views. Additionally, in some cases, details that are unnecessary for understanding the disclosed subject matter or that make other details too obscure may be omitted. Therefore, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and shown herein, but is a fair reading of the entire disclosure and claims and any equivalents thereof. Additional, different, or fewer components and methods may be included in these systems and methods.

[0212] Detailed description

[0213] In the following description, numerous specific details are illustrated through these examples to provide a thorough understanding of the teachings. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these teachings can be practiced without such details. In other examples, well-known methods, processes, components, and / or circuits are described at a relatively high level without providing too much detail, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various aspects of these teachings.

[0214] Now refer to the attached diagram and specifically to... Figure 1A-Figure 1B The text describes a wireless power delivery system 10A. The wireless power delivery system 10 provides wireless transmission of electrical signals (such as, but not limited to, electrical energy, electrical power signals, and electromagnetic energy). Additionally, the wireless power delivery system 10 can provide wireless transmission of electronically transmittable data (“electronic data”) independent of and / or associated with the aforementioned electrical signals. Specifically, the wireless power delivery system 10 provides wireless transmission of electrical signals via near-field magnetic coupling. Figure 1A-Figure 1B As shown in the embodiments, the wireless power delivery system 10 includes a power transmitter 20 and a power receiver 30. The power receiver 30 is configured to receive electrical energy, electrical power, electromagnetic energy, and / or electronic data from at least the power transmitter 20.

[0215] As explained, the power transmitter 20 and power receiver 30 can be configured to transmit electrical energy, electrical power, electromagnetic energy, and / or electronically transmittable data over at least a spacing distance or gap 17 via the transmitter antenna 21 and the receiver antenna 31. In the context of a wireless power delivery system such as System 10, a spacing distance or gap such as gap 17 does not include a physical connection such as a wired connection. Intermediate objects may be present in the spacing distance or gap (such as gap 17), such as, but not limited to, air, a tabletop, the housing of an electronic device, a gripping device for a mobile device, plastic filaments, insulators, mechanical walls, etc.; however, there is no physical electrical connection at such a spacing distance or gap.

[0216] The combination of wireless transmitter 20 and wireless receiver 30 creates an electrical connection without requiring a physical connection. As defined herein, an “electrical connection” means any means of transmitting current, voltage, and / or power from a first location, device, component, and / or source to a second location, device, component, and / or destination. An “electrical connection” can be a physical connection, such as, but not limited to, wires, traces, vias, and other physical electrical connections connecting the first location, device, component, and / or source to the second location, device, component, and / or destination. Additionally or alternatively, an “electrical connection” can be a radio connection connecting the first location, device, component, and / or source to the second location, device, component, and / or destination, such as, but not limited to, magnetic fields, electromagnetic fields, resonant fields, and / or induced fields, and other radio connections.

[0217] Alternatively, gap 17 can be referred to as the "Z-distance" because if antennas 21 and 31 are considered to be arranged substantially along a common XY plane, then the distance separating antennas 21 and 31 is the gap in the "Z" or "depth" direction. However, embodiments of this disclosure naturally contemplate flexible and / or non-planar coils, and therefore, the envelope of the connection distance across antennas 21 and 31 is contemplated, and gap 17 may be non-uniform. Various tuning, configuration, and / or other parameters are contemplated to vary the maximum possible distance of gap 17, such that electrical transmission from power delivery system 20 to power receiver system 30 remains possible.

[0218] The wireless power transfer system 10 operates when the power transmitter 20 and the power receiver 30 are coupled. As defined herein, the terms “coupled to,” “coupled to,” and “coupled” generally refer to magnetic field coupling that occurs when the energy of the transmitter and / or any component thereof is coupled to the energy of the receiver and / or any component thereof through a magnetic field. The coupling between the power transmitter 20 and the power receiver 30 in system 10 can be represented by the resonant coupling coefficient of system 10, and for wireless power transfer purposes, the coupling coefficient of system 10 can be in the range of about 0.01 to 0.9.

[0219] Power transmitter 20 may be operationally associated with base station 11. Base station 11 may be a device, such as a charger, capable of providing near-field induced power to a power receiver via power transmitter 20. In some examples, base station 11 may be configured to provide near-field induced power as specified in the Qi™ Wireless Power Delivery System, Power Class 0 specification. In some such examples, base station 11 may carry a logo to visually indicate to the user that base station 11 complies with the Qi™ Wireless Power Delivery System, Power Class 0 specification.

[0220] The power transmitter 20 can receive power from the input power source 12. The base station 11 can be any electrically operated device, circuit board, electronic assembly, dedicated charging device, or any other contemplated electronic device. Examples of the base station 11 associated with the power transmitter 20 include, but are not limited to: devices including integrated circuits, housings for wearable electronic devices, sockets for electronic devices, portable computing devices, clothing configured with electronic components, storage media for electronic devices, charging devices for one or more electronic devices, dedicated charging devices, activity or sports-related equipment, merchandise, and / or data collection devices, and other contemplated electronic devices.

[0221] The input power source 12 may be or may include one or more energy storage devices, such as electrochemical cells, battery packs and / or capacitors, and other energy storage devices. Additionally or alternatively, the input power source 12 may be any electrical input source (e.g., any alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) delivery port) and may include a connection device from said electrical input source to the wireless transmission system 20 (e.g., a transformer, regulator, conductive conduit, trace, wire, or equipment, merchandise, computer, camera, mobile phone, and / or other electrical device connection port and / or adapter, such as, but not limited to, USB or lighting ports and / or adapters, and other envisioned electrical components). Furthermore, reference is made below. Figure 1B , Figure 5C and Figures 9A-12D As discussed, for power distribution purposes, input power supply 12 may include, be implemented by, and / or be operationally associated with external power supply 45, which directly provides DC power input to power transmitter 20. External power supply 45 may include or include one or more Universal Serial Bus (USB) power supplies, lighting power supplies, Qualcomm fast charging devices, USB-C power supplies, USB-PD (USB Power Delivery) power supplies, mini-USB power supplies, proprietary power supplies, inputs / outputs on electronic devices (e.g., computers, multi-device chargers, car consoles, mobile devices, portable power supplies, batteries, generators, and known power supplies).

[0222] In some other examples, such as Figure 1A In system 10B, the input power source 12 may be operationally associated with vehicle 15. Therefore, the input power source 12 may be or may include one or more vehicle electrical inputs, vehicle batteries, vehicle power rails, energy storage devices (such as electrochemical cells), battery packs and / or capacitors, and other energy storage devices. Additionally or alternatively, the input power source 12 may be any electrical input source (e.g., any alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) transmission port) and may include connection means from said electrical input source to wireless transmission system 20 (e.g., transformers, regulators, conductive conduits, traces, wires, or equipment, merchandise, computers, cameras, mobile phones, and / or other electrical equipment connection ports and / or adapters, such as, but not limited to, USB or lighting ports and / or adapters, and other contemplated electrical components).

[0223] The electrical energy received by the power transmitter 20 is then used for at least two purposes: to provide electrical power to the internal components of the power transmitter 20 and to provide electrical power to the transmitter coil 21. The transmitter antenna 21 is configured to wirelessly transmit electrical signals that have been modulated and modified for wireless transmission by the power transmitter 20 via near-field magnetic coupling (NFMC). NFMC enables the wireless transfer of electrical energy, electrical power, electromagnetic energy, and / or electronically transmittable data via magnetic induction between the transmitter coil 21 and the receiving coil 31 of the wireless receiver system 30 or associated therewith. NFMC can also enable “inductive coupling,” as defined herein, a wireless power transfer technique that uses an alternating electromagnetic field to transfer electrical energy between two or more antennas / coils. Such inductive coupling is the near-field wireless transmission of electrical energy between two magnetically coupled coils tuned to resonate at similar frequencies. Furthermore, such NFMC can provide a connection via “mutual inductance,” as defined herein, where mutual inductance is the generation of an electromotive force in a circuit through a change in current in at least one circuit of the first circuit via magnetic coupling.

[0224] In one or more embodiments, the inductor coil of transmitter coil 21 or receiver coil 31 is strategically positioned to facilitate the reception and / or transmission of wirelessly transmitted electrical energy, power, electromagnetic energy, and / or data via near-field magnetic induction. The antenna operating frequency may include all operating frequency ranges, examples of which may include, but are not limited to, approximately 87 kHz to approximately 205 kHz (Qi™ interface standard). The operating frequencies of coils 21 and 31 may be operating frequencies specified by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in the Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band.

[0225] As known to those skilled in the art, a "resonant frequency" or "resonant band" refers to a frequency or band in which the amplitude response of the antenna is at a relative maximum, or additionally or alternatively, in which the capacitive reactance has a magnitude substantially similar to that of the induced reactance. In one or more embodiments, the resonant band of the transmitting antenna extends from about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz. In one or more embodiments, the inductor coil of the receiver antenna 31 is configured to resonate at or within the resonant band of the receiving antenna.

[0226] In some examples, the transmitting and receiving coils of this disclosure can be configured to transmit and / or receive power with a baseline power distribution on the order of up to about 5 watts (W). In some other examples, the transmitting and receiving coils of this disclosure can be configured to transmit and / or receive power with an extended power distribution, thereby supporting the transmission of up to 15W of power.

[0227] Power receiver 30 is configured to acquire near-field induced power from power transmitter 20. In some examples, power receiver 30 is a subsystem of electronic device 14. Electronic device 14 can be any device capable of consuming the near-field induced power specified in the Qi™ Wireless Power Delivery System, Power Class 0 specification. In some such examples, electronic device 14 may carry a logo to visually indicate to the user that electronic device 14 complies with the specification.

[0228] Electronic device 14 can be any device that requires electrical power for any function and / or power storage (e.g., via a battery and / or capacitor). Additionally or alternatively, electronic device 14 can be any device capable of receiving electronically transmissible data. For example, the device can be, but is not limited to, handheld computing devices, mobile devices, portable electrical appliances, integrated circuits, identifiable tags, kitchen appliances, automotive equipment, electronic tools, electric vehicles, game consoles, robotic devices, wearable electronic devices (e.g., electronic watches, electronic modification glasses, altered reality (AR) glasses, virtual reality (VR) glasses, etc.), portable scanning devices, portable identification devices, sporting goods, embedded sensors, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, IoT-enabled clothing, IoT-enabled entertainment devices, industrial equipment, medical equipment, medical devices, tablet computing devices, portable control devices, remote controls for electronic devices, game controllers, etc.

[0229] For the purpose of illustrating the features and characteristics of the disclosed embodiments, arrowheads are used to illustrate transmittable and / or communicative signals, and different patterns are used to illustrate electrical signals intended for power transmission and electrical signals intended for data and / or control commands. Solid lines indicate the transmission of electrical energy, electrical power signals, and / or electromagnetic energy in the form of power signals via physical and / or radio connections, which are ultimately used in wireless power transmission from power transmitter 20 to power receiver 30. Furthermore, dashed lines are used to illustrate electronically transmittable data signals, which can ultimately be wirelessly transmitted from power transmitter 20 to power receiver 30.

[0230] Turn now Figure 2AThe wireless power transfer system 10 is illustrated as a block diagram of an example subsystem including a power transmitter 20. The wireless transmission system 20 may include at least a power conditioning system 40, a control and communication system 26, a sensing system 50, and a transmission coil 21. A first portion of the electrical energy input from the input power source 12 is configured to power components of the wireless transmission system 20, such as, but not limited to, the control and communication system 26. A second portion of the electrical energy input from the input power source 12 is conditioned and / or modified for wireless power transfer to the power receiver 30 via the transmission coil 21. Thus, the second portion of the input energy is modified and / or conditioned by the power conditioning system 40. Although not illustrated, it is of course contemplated that one or both of the first and second portions of the input electrical energy may be modified, conditioned, altered, and / or otherwise changed by other contemplated subsystems (e.g., voltage regulators, current regulators, switching systems, fault systems, safety regulators, etc.) before being received by the power conditioning system 40 and / or the transmission control system 26.

[0231] See now Figure 2B And refer to Figure 1B Input power 12 is the vehicle power supply, and the input power is received by vehicle power input regulator 90, which is particularly susceptible to one or more of power surges, transients, and electrostatic discharge (ESD). Therefore, a single transient voltage spike can potentially damage and / or destroy components of the power transmitter's circuitry. Additionally or alternatively, electrical noise generated by the vehicle power supply (even relatively low-energy noise) can cause significant interruptions in digital communication. Vehicle power input regulator 90 can be configured for transient voltage suppression, etc., to protect downstream components of power transmitter 20. See below. Figures 8-10 Further description of an embodiment of the vehicle power input regulator 90 is discussed.

[0232] The control and communication system 26 typically includes the digital logic section of the power transmitter 20. The control and communication system 26 receives and decodes messages from the power receiver 30, executes relevant power control algorithms and protocols, and drives the frequency of the AC waveform to control power delivery. As discussed in more detail below, the control and communication system 26 also interfaces with other subsystems of the power transmitter 20. For example, the control and communication system 26 may interface with other components of the power transmitter 20 for user interface purposes.

[0233] Now refer to Figure 3 Continue to refer to Figure 1A-Figure 2B The description explains the sub-components and / or system of the control and communication system 26. The control and communication system 26 may include a transmission controller 28, a communication system 29, a driver 48, and a memory 27.

[0234] The transmission controller 28 can be any electronic controller or computing system, which includes at least a processor that performs operations, executes control algorithms, stores data, retrieves data, collects data, controls and / or provides communication with other components and / or subsystems associated with the power transmitter 20, and / or performs any other computational or control tasks required. The transmission controller 28 can be a single controller or can include more than one controller configured to control various functions and / or characteristics of the power transmitter 20, such as, but not limited to, providing control commands to the external power supply 45. The functionality of the transmission controller 28 can be implemented in hardware and / or software and can depend on one or more data mappings associated with the operation of the power transmitter 20. For this purpose, the transmission controller 28 may be operatively associated with memory 27. The memory may include one or more of internal memory, external memory, and / or remote memory (e.g., a database and / or server operatively connected to the transmission controller 28 via a network (such as, but not limited to, the Internet). Internal and / or external memory may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: read-only memory (ROM) (including programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or sometimes but rarely marked EROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM)), random access memory (RAM) (including dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), single data rate synchronous dynamic RAM (SDR SDRAM), dual data rate synchronous dynamic RAM (DDR SDRAM, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4), and graphics dual data rate synchronous dynamic RAM (GDDR SDRAM, GDDR2, GDDR3, GDDR4, GDDR5, flash memory, portable memory), etc. Such storage media are examples of non-transitory machine-readable and / or computer-readable storage media.

[0235] While specific elements of the control and communication system 26 are described as independent components and / or circuitry of the control and communication system 26 (e.g., driver 48, memory 27, communication system 29, and other envisioned elements), these components may be integrated with the transmission controller 28. In some examples, the transmission controller 28 may typically be an integrated circuit configured to include functional elements of one or both of the transmission controller 28 and the power transmitter 20.

[0236] As explained, for the purposes of data transmission, reception, and / or communication, the transmission controller 28 is operationally associated with at least the memory 27, the communication system 29, the power conditioning system 40, the driver 48, and the sensing system 50. The driver 48 may be implemented to at least partially control the operation of the power conditioning system 40. In some examples, the driver 48 may receive instructions from the transmission controller 28 to generate a pulse-width modulation (PWM) signal and / or output the generated PWM signal to the power conditioning system 40. In some such examples, the PWM signal may be configured to drive the power conditioning system 40 to output electrical power as an AC signal, the operating frequency of which is defined by the PWM signal. As follows regarding... Figures 11A-11B In more detail, the PWM signal can be modified by the controller 28, at least for power control purposes.

[0237] The sensing system 50 may include one or more sensors, each of which may be operatively associated with one or more components of the power transmitter 20 and configured to provide information and / or data. The term "sensor," in its broadest interpretation, is used to define one or more components operatively associated with the power transmitter 20, operating to sense the function, condition, electrical characteristics, operation, and / or operational features of one or more of the power transmitter 20, power receiver 30, input power supply 12, base station 11, transmission coil 21, receiver coil 31, and any other components and / or sub-components thereof.

[0238] like Figure 4 As described in the embodiments, sensing system 50 may include, but is not limited to, thermal sensing system 52, object sensing system 54, receiver sensing system 56, (a) electrical sensors and / or any other (a) sensors 58. Within these systems, there may be optional additional or alternative sensing systems that address specific sensing aspects required for the application, such as, but not limited to: condition-based maintenance sensing systems, performance optimization sensing systems, charging status sensing systems, temperature management sensing systems, component heat dissipation sensing systems, IoT sensing systems, energy and / or power management sensing systems, impact detection sensing systems, electrical status sensing systems, speed detection sensing systems, device health sensing systems, etc. Object sensing system 54 may be a foreign object detection (FOD) system.

[0239] Each of the thermal sensing system 52, the object sensing system 54, the receiver sensing system 56, and / or other sensors 58 (including optional additional or replacement systems) is operatively and / or communicatively connected to the transmission controller 28. The thermal sensing system 52 is configured to monitor ambient temperature and / or component temperature within or near the power transmitter 20. The thermal sensing system 52 may be configured to detect the temperature within the power transmitter 20, and if the detected temperature exceeds a threshold temperature, the transmission controller 28 prevents the power transmitter 20 from operating. Such a threshold temperature may be configured for safety, operational, efficiency, and / or any combination thereof. In a non-limiting example, if the transmission controller 28 determines via input from the thermal sensing system 52 that the temperature within the power transmitter 20 has increased from an acceptable operating temperature to an undesirable operating temperature (e.g., in a non-limiting example, the internal temperature increases from about 20°C to about 50°C), the transmission controller 28 prevents the power transmitter 20 from operating and / or reduces the power output level from the power transmitter 20. In some non-limiting examples, the thermal sensing system 52 may include one or more of a thermocouple, a thermistor, a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) resistor, a resistance temperature detector (RTD), and / or any combination thereof.

[0240] like Figure 4 As depicted, the transmission sensing system 50 may include an object sensing system 54. The object sensing system 54 may be configured to detect the presence of an unwanted object that comes into contact with or approaches the power transmitter 20 of the wireless transmission system 20. In some examples, the object sensing system 54 is configured to detect the presence of an unwanted object. In some such examples, if the transmission controller 28 detects the presence of an unwanted object via information provided by the object sensing system 54, then the transmission controller 28 blocks or otherwise modifies the operation of the power transmitter 20. In some examples, the object sensing system 54 utilizes an impedance change detection scheme, wherein the transmission controller 28 analyzes changes in impedance observed by the transmission coil 21 against a known, acceptable impedance value or a range of impedance values. Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the object sensing system 54 may determine the presence of a foreign object by measuring the power output associated with the power transmitter 20 and determining the power input associated with the receiver associated with the power transmitter 20. In such an example, the object sensing system 54 can calculate the difference between the power associated with the power transmitter 20 and the power associated with the receiver, and determine whether the difference indicates a loss consistent with a foreign object not designated for wireless power transmission.

[0241] Additionally or alternatively, the object sensing system 54 may utilize a quality factor (Q) change detection scheme, wherein the transmission controller 28 analyzes changes in a known quality factor value or range of quality factor values ​​from a detected object such as the receiver coil 31. The “quality factor” or “Q” of an inductor can be defined as (frequency (Hz) × inductance (H)) / resistance (ohms), where the frequency is the operating frequency of the circuit, the inductance is the inductive output of the inductor, and the resistance is a combination of the radiation resistance and reactive resistance within the inductor. As defined herein, “quality factor” is generally accepted as an index (measurement graph) that measures the efficiency of a device such as an antenna, circuit, or resonator. In some examples, the object sensing system 54 may include one or more of an optical sensor, an electro-optic sensor, a Hall effect sensor, a proximity sensor, and / or any combination thereof.

[0242] The receiver sensing system 56 is any sensor, circuitry, and / or combination thereof configured to detect the presence of any wireless receiving system that can be coupled to the power transmitter 20. In some examples, if the presence of any such wireless receiving system is detected, the power transmitter enables wireless transmission of electrical energy, power, electromagnetic energy, and / or data to said wireless receiving system. In some examples, if the presence of the wireless receiving system is not detected, wireless transmission of electrical energy, power, electromagnetic energy, and / or data is blocked. Therefore, the receiver sensing system 56 may include one or more sensors and / or may be operationally associated with one or more sensors configured to analyze electrical characteristics in or near the environment of the power transmitter 20 and determine the presence of the power receiver 30 based on these electrical characteristics.

[0243] (Various) electrical sensors 57 may include any sensor configured to detect and / or measure any current, voltage, and / or power within the power transmitter 20. Information provided to the transmission controller 28 by the electrical sensors 57 may be used independently and / or in combination with any information provided to the transmission controller 28 by one or more of the thermal sensing system 52, the object sensing system 54, the receiver sensing system 56, other sensors 58, and any combination thereof.

[0244] Now refer to Figure 5A And continue to refer to Figures 1A-4This section explains a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the power conditioning system 40A. At the power conditioning system 40A, an AC source is converted to a DC source (not shown) via the input power supply 12 itself or an intermediary power converter; the electrical power is typically received as DC power. A voltage regulator 46 receives electrical power from the input power supply 12 and is configured to provide electrical power for transmission through the coil 21 and for powering components of the power transmitter 20. Therefore, the voltage regulator 46 is configured to convert the received electrical power into at least two electrical power signals, each at an appropriate voltage for the operation of a respective downstream component: a first electrical power signal, supplying power to any component of the power transmitter 20; and a second portion, regulated and modified for wireless transmission to the wireless receiver system 30. Figure 3 As explained herein, this first part is transmitted at least to the sensing system 50, the transmission controller 28, and the communication system 29; however, the first part is not limited to being transmitted only to these components, but may be transmitted to any electrical component of the power transmitter 20.

[0245] A second portion of the electrical power is provided to amplifier 42 of power conditioning system 40A, which is configured to regulate the electrical power for wireless transmission by coil 21. The amplifier can act as an inverter that receives an input DC power signal from voltage regulator 46 and generates AC as an output, at least in part, based on the PWM input from transmission control system 26. Amplifier 42 can be, or may include, for example, a power stage inverter. The use of amplifier 42 within power conditioning system 40A and, consequently, power transmitter 20, enables wireless transmission of electrical signals with much larger amplitudes than would be possible without such an amplifier. For example, the addition of amplifier 42 enables wireless transmission system 20 to transmit electrical energy as an electrical power signal having an electrical power range from about 10 millivolts (mW) to about 60 W.

[0246] Now refer to Figure 5B And continue to refer to Figure 1A , Figure 2B and Figures 3-4This section describes a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the power conditioning system 40B. At the power conditioning system 40B, filtered input power is typically received as a direct current (DC) power source via the vehicle power input regulator 90 itself or an intermediary power converter. A voltage regulator 46 receives electrical power from the input power source 12 and is configured to provide electrical power for transmission through the coil 21 and for powering components of the power transmitter 20. Therefore, the voltage regulator 46 is configured to convert the received electrical power into at least two electrical power signals, each at an appropriate operating voltage for its respective downstream components: a first electrical power signal, supplying power to any components of the power transmitter 20; and a second portion, regulated and modified for wireless transmission to the wireless receiver system 30. Figure 3 As explained, this first portion is transmitted at least to the sensing system 50, the transmission controller 28, and the communication system 29; however, the first portion is not limited to transmission to only these components and may be transmitted to any electrical component of the power transmitter 20. A second portion of the electrical power is provided to the amplifier 42 of the power conditioning system 40B, which is configured to regulate the electrical power for wireless transmission by the coil 21. The amplifier may act as an inverter that receives an input DC power signal from the voltage regulator 46 and generates alternating current (AC) as an output, at least in part based on the PWM input from the transmission control system 26. The amplifier 42 may be, or may include, for example, a power stage inverter. The use of the amplifier 42 within the power conditioning system 40 and, consequently, the power transmitter 20, enables the wireless transmission of electrical signals with much larger amplitudes than would be possible without such an amplifier. For example, the addition of the amplifier 42 enables the wireless transmission system 20 to transmit electrical energy as an electrical power signal having an electrical power range from about 10 mW to about 60 W.

[0247] Now refer to Figure 5C And continue to refer to Figures 1A-4The following is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the power conditioning system 40A. In the power conditioning system 40, electrical power is typically received as DC power via an external power source 45. This electrical power is supplied to an amplifier 42 of the power conditioning system 40, which is configured to regulate the electrical power for wireless transmission via coil 21. The amplifier 42 can act as an inverter that receives the DC power signal from the external power source 45 and generates an AC power signal as an output, based at least in part on the PWM input from the transmission control system 26. The amplifier 42 can be, or may include, for example, a power stage inverter. The use of the amplifier 42 within the power conditioning system 40 and consequently in the power transmitter 20 enables the wireless transmission of electrical signals with much larger amplitudes than would be possible without such an amplifier. For example, the addition of the amplifier 42 enables the wireless transmission system 20 to transmit electrical energy as an electrical power signal having an electrical power range from about 10 millivolts (mW) to about 60 W.

[0248] Turn now Figure 6 Another wireless power delivery system 10B was explained. Wireless power delivery system 10B includes most of the same components as wireless power delivery system 10A, and therefore the base station transmit antenna 21, receiver antenna 31, power receiver 30, load 16, electronics 14, and input power supply 12 are functionally equivalent. Figure 1A Those and shared with the above reference Figures 1A-5C The same written descriptions. In contrast to the wireless power delivery system 10A, the input power supply 12 in the wireless power delivery system 10B is operationally associated with the vehicle 15. While it is indeed possible... Figure 1A System 10A and / or its components may be operationally associated with a vehicle, but for the purposes of this exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, Figures 5A-5C The system is illustrated in detail below. Additionally, system 10B includes a power transmitter 20B, which shares many similar elements with power transmitter 20A, as discussed below. Power transmitter 20B may include or be operationally associated with base station 11B.

[0249] Vehicle 15 may be a machine that transports people and / or goods. Exemplary vehicles include automobiles, such as cars, trucks, buses, and other land vehicles. Other examples of vehicles may include airplanes, ships, golf carts, small industrial vehicles, agricultural equipment, construction equipment, marine vehicles, mixed-use vehicles, recreational vehicles, sports vehicles, public transportation vehicles, and trains. Therefore, input power 12 may be or may include one or more vehicle electrical inputs, vehicle batteries, vehicle power rails, energy storage devices such as electrochemical batteries, battery packs, and / or capacitors, and other energy storage devices. Additionally or alternatively, input power 12 may be any electrical input source (e.g., any alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) transmission port) and may include connection means from said electrical input source to wireless transmission system 20B (e.g., transformers, regulators, rectifiers, conductive conduits, traces, wires, or equipment, goods, computers, cameras, mobile phones, and / or other electrical device connection ports and / or adapters, such as, but not limited to, USB or lighting ports and / or adapters, and other envisioned electrical components).

[0250] Figure 7 The power transmitter 20B has been described. Power transmitter 20B includes most of the same components as power transmitter 20A, and therefore the control and communication system 26, power conditioning system 40, transmitter coil 21, sensing system 50, and housing 100 share the same features as described above. Figures 1A-5C Those same written descriptions. Figures 1A-5C In contrast to the wireless power transfer system 20A, the power transmitter 20B includes a vehicle power input regulator 90. The vehicle power input regulator 90 is configured to receive and regulate power input from the input power source 12 to generate filtered input power delivered to the power conditioning system 40.

[0251] When the input power source 12 is a vehicle power source, the input power is received by the vehicle power input regulator 90, which is particularly susceptible to one or more of power surges, transients, and electrostatic discharge (ESD). Therefore, a single transient voltage spike can potentially damage and / or destroy components of the power transmitter's circuitry. Additionally or alternatively, electrical noise generated by the vehicle power source (even relatively low-energy noise) can cause significant interruptions in digital communication. The vehicle power input regulator 90 can be configured for transient voltage suppression, etc., to protect downstream components of the power transmitter 20B.

[0252] Figure 8This is an exemplary plot 19 illustrating an example voltage embodiment of the input power signal 13 transmitted from the input power source 11 to the vehicle power input regulator. It should be noted that plot 19 is not to scale, and the voltage values ​​are merely exemplary. The input power signal 13 is generated from a vehicle power source (e.g., an alternator and / or battery like that of the vehicle). Due to the nature of the vehicle and the various effects that its components may have on the voltage of the power signal 13, multiple transient voltages may be applied to the connections and / or rails through which the input power signal 13 propagates. As explained, and observed with reference to a baseline 0 V level, the power voltage in the vehicle power connections and / or rails may have transient spikes and drops that can affect the components attached to the connections and / or rails. As explained, such transients can be changes to the nominal voltage and include, but are not limited to, voltage drops due to cranking, load dumps that significantly increase voltage, signal noise, overvoltages from different sources (such as jump start), reverse battery connections, etc.

[0253] The vehicle power input regulator 90, used by the power transmitter 20, substantially "flattens" the exemplary drawing 19, thereby providing a constant, safe voltage in the filtered power signal supplied to the downstream components of the power transmitter 20. Figures 9A-9E As explained, the vehicle power input regulator 90 includes an input protection circuit 91, which is used to remove transients from the input power signal and / or flatten the voltage of the input power signal to a common continuous voltage.

[0254] Turn now Figure 10 And continue to refer to Figures 9A-9E The components of input protection circuitry 91 are explained. Input protection circuitry 91 may include electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuitry 94, which is configured to prevent and / or mitigate ESD from entering or occurring within power emitter 20. "Electrostatic discharge (ESD)" as defined herein is a sudden current flow between two charged objects caused by one or more of contact, electrical short circuit, and / or dielectric breakdown. ESD can occur when dissimilar charged objects are brought close together or when the dielectric between them is damaged. Exemplary ESD protection circuitry 94 may embody or include diodes, transient voltage suppressors (TVS), Zener diodes, and others.

[0255] Input protection circuitry 91 may also include electromagnetic interference (EMI) mitigation circuitry 95. EMI (which may alternatively be referred to as “radio frequency interference”) refers to interference that may be undesirably generated by components of power transmitter 20, potentially affecting the circuitry, and is generated by electromagnetic induction, electrostatic coupling, and / or conduction, as well as other EMI sources. Such interference may degrade circuit performance, halt circuit operation, and / or violate EMI limits for commercial products, as provided by regulations. Both man-made and natural sources can generate varying currents and voltages, which can cause EMI. Therefore, EMI mitigation circuitry 95 may be included to mitigate the adverse effects of EMI on components of power transmitter 20 and / or limit the transmission of EMI by power transmitter 20. EMI mitigation circuitry 95 may embody or include filters, RF filters, common-mode chokes, ferrite beads, inductors, tuning networks, and the like.

[0256] Input protection circuitry 91 may include overvoltage protection circuitry 92, configured to protect components and / or sub-components of power transmitter 20 from overvoltages in the input power signal. As defined herein, “overvoltage” means when the voltage in power transmitter 20 rises above the design limit of any component of power transmitter 20. Overvoltages can cause damage and / or failure in components of power transmitter 20. Depending on the duration of the overvoltage, an overvoltage event may be transient, such as a spike, or may be substantially constant and / or permanent, thus causing a power surge. Exemplary overvoltage protection circuitry 92 may embody or include arc suppression protection circuitry, Zener voltage regulator circuitry, Zener diodes, bipolar transistors, voltage regulators, relays, and other known overvoltage protection circuitry.

[0257] Input protection circuitry 91 may also include undervoltage protection circuitry 93 configured to prevent undervoltage from being transmitted to power conditioning system 40. Undervoltage, as defined herein, occurs when the voltage of the input power drops below the expected voltage level for operation of power transmitter 20. Undervoltage can cause components to fail due to lack of delivered power, and / or undervoltage can cause components of power transmitter 20 to draw excessive current, which can lead to component failure or damage. Undervoltage can be detrimental to the digital logic elements of power transmitter 20 because it can cause digital logic circuitry to enter unknown and / or unpredictable states, potentially damage volatile memory (such as random access memory (RAM)), cause microcontrollers to perform unpredictable actions, create unsafe conditions within logic circuitry, and so on. When caused by undervoltage, such occurrences can lead to component damage, unsafe conditions, and / or cause the power transmitter to stop operating.

[0258] The undervoltage protection circuit 93 can be configured in any suitable manner to prevent undervoltage, such as, but not limited to, including additional capacitance to the circuit to provide power during power loss, including CPU stop mechanisms, and / or switching / detection elements to shut down the power transmitter 20 until the voltage reaches an acceptable limit. Exemplary undervoltage protection circuit 93 may embody or include comparator circuitry, high-capacitance circuitry, fail-safe circuitry, timers, etc.

[0259] Return now Figure 9A The system includes a DC / DC voltage converter 96A for receiving filtered power, converting the input voltage of the filtered power, and outputting a filtered power signal at an operating input voltage for the power transmitter 20. The DC / DC voltage converter 96A can be any element, component, and / or assembly configured to change the DC voltage of the DC power signal, which may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: a buck converter, a step-down converter, a boost converter, a transformer, an amplifier, a split-π converter, a boost-buck converter, a push-pull converter, or a full-bridge converter. In some examples, the input power from the input power supply may be approximately 12V, and the operating voltage of the power transmitter 20 is approximately 19V. In such examples, the DC / DC voltage converter 96A is configured to boost or step up the voltage of the power signal used for the filtered power signal from 12V to 19V. In some other examples, the DC / DC voltage converter 96A is configured to step down the voltage of the power signal used for the filtered power signal from 24V to 19V.

[0260] exist Figure 9B In another embodiment of the vehicle power input regulator 90B described herein, a DC / DC input buck converter 96B is included for receiving filtered power, stepping down and / or reducing the input voltage of the filtered power, and outputting a filtered power signal at the operating input voltage of the power transmitter 20. The DC / DC voltage converter can be any element, component, and / or assembly for stepping down, reducing, and / or reducing the DC voltage of the DC power signal, and may include, but is not limited to, one or more of buck converters, voltage reducers, transformers, amplifiers, split-π converters, push-pull converters, full-bridge converters, etc. In some examples, the input power from the input power supply may be approximately 12V, and the operating voltage of the power transmitter 20 is approximately 12V. In such examples, the DC / DC voltage converter 96B is configured to maintain and / or stabilize the voltage of the input power signal at approximately 12V. In some other examples, the DC / DC voltage converter 96B is configured to step down the voltage of the power signal used for the filtered power signal from approximately 24V to approximately 12V.

[0261] Figure 9C Another embodiment of a vehicle power input regulator 90C is described, which includes an input voltage for receiving filtered power, converting the filtered power input voltage, and outputting a filtered power signal at the operating input voltage of the power transmitter 20. The vehicle power input regulator 90C may include a DC / DC voltage converter 96C, which may be any element, component, and / or component configured to change the DC voltage of the DC power signal, including but not limited to one or more of buck converters, voltage-reducing converters, boost converters, transformers, amplifiers, split-π converters, boost-buck converters, push-pull converters, full-bridge converters, etc. Figure 9C In an exemplary embodiment, the power transmitter 20 may include an input voltage sensor 97 configured to detect and / or measure the input voltage of the power received from the input power source 11. The input voltage sensor 97 then provides this voltage information to a control and communication system 26, which can then control the voltage of the DC / DC input converter 96C based on the detected input voltage. For example, if the input voltage is approximately 12 V and the operating voltage of the power transmitter 20 is approximately 19 V, the control and communication system 26 may instruct the DC / DC input converter 96C to boost and / or increase the voltage to approximately 19 V. In some alternative examples, if the input voltage is approximately 24 V and the operating voltage of the power transmitter 20 is approximately 19 V, the control and communication system 26 may be configured to step down or reduce the voltage to approximately 19 V.

[0262] Figure 9D Another embodiment of a vehicle power input regulator 90D is described, which includes an input voltage for receiving filtered power, converting the filtered power, and outputting a filtered power signal at the operating input voltage of the power transmitter 20. The vehicle power input regulator 90D may include a DC / DC buck-boost converter 96D, which may be any element, component, and / or assembly configured to change the DC voltage of the DC power signal, including but not limited to one or more of buck converters, voltage-reducing converters, boost converters, transformers, amplifiers, split-π converters, push-pull converters, full-bridge converters, etc. Figure 9DIn an exemplary embodiment, the buck-boost converter 96D may be configured to detect and / or measure the input voltage of the power received from the input power source 11, and subsequently buck or boost the voltage based on the desired operating conditions of the power transmitter 20. For example, if the input voltage is about 12 V and the operating voltage of the power transmitter 20 is about 19 V, the buck-boost converter 96D may boost and / or boost the voltage to about 19 V. In some alternative examples, if the input voltage is about 24 V and the operating voltage of the power transmitter 20 is about 19 V, the buck-boost converter 96D may be configured to buck or reduce the voltage to about 19 V.

[0263] In some exemplary embodiments of the vehicle power input regulator 90E, such as Figure 9E As explained, the components of the vehicle power input regulator 90E can be integrated with the power regulation system 40 of the power transmitter 20. In such an example, the voltage regulator 46 can be implemented as embodying Figures 9A-9D This is similar to the function of any DC / DC voltage converter 90A-D. For this purpose, the voltage regulator 46 can be configured to convert the input voltage from the input power supply 11 into the appropriate operating voltage for the power transmitter 20.

[0264] Turn now Figure 11A and Figure 11B Continue to refer to Figures 1A-5C For the purpose of describing the power control methods, schemes, and / or components of the power transmitter 20, the components of the power transmitter 20 and the external power supply 45 are explained. To this end, the interaction between one or more of the power conditioning system 40, amplifier 42, controller 28, external power supply 45, or their components is explained.

[0265] As described above, the external power supply 45 can be any suitable power supply, which can be configured to provide a suitable DC power signal (V) to the amplifier 42 at a DC voltage. DC The DC power is modulated via transmitter antenna 21 for wireless power transmission as an AC power signal (V). AC In some examples, external power supply 45 can boost V without any additional boost or buck converter via physical electrical components (e.g., the internal DC / DC converter of power transmitter 20). DC It is directly supplied to amplifier 42. However, although the internal hardware of the power transmitter is not utilized to change V... DC However, as discussed below, it is conceivable that the obtained power signal V can be changed via control of controller 28. AC The voltage, current and / or power levels.

[0266] External power supply 45 receives input power VIN It can be any DC or AC input power, regulated by an external power supply 45, used as V DC The output goes directly to amplifier 42. Voltage regulator 46 receives V from input power supply 12. IN And is configured to provide electrical power to amplifier 42. Therefore, voltage regulator 46 is configured to convert the received power into a power signal at an appropriate voltage for operation of the corresponding downstream components. Voltage regulator 46 can be any voltage regulator known in the art capable of converting an input voltage into an output DC voltage, and among other known voltage regulators, it can include one or more DC / DC converters, amplifiers, transistors, transformers, inverters, switches, diodes, rectifiers, or switching systems. For this purpose, voltage regulator 46 can be configured to... IN Boost the voltage to obtain V DC V IN Reduce the pressure to obtain V DC and / or maintain a substantially similar voltage V IN To obtain V DC .

[0267] Used to generate V DC This boosting, bucking, and / or maintaining of the voltage can be controlled by the power controller 47 of the external power supply 45. The power controller 47 may include any internal firmware and / or may respond to signals from any external controller (e.g., transmission controller 28) to determine instructions for providing to the voltage regulator 46 to control the resulting V. DC The voltage level. As discussed in more detail below, the power controller 47 utilizes one or more control methods, schemes, and / or components to deliver the required V. DC It is directly output to amplifier 42.

[0268] The power controller 47 can be any electronic controller or computing system, which includes at least a processor that performs operations, executes control algorithms, stores data, retrieves data, collects data, controls and / or provides communication with other components and / or subsystems associated with the external power supply 45, and / or performs any other computational or control tasks required. The power controller 47 can be a single controller or can include more than one controller configured to control various functions and / or characteristics of the external power supply 45. The functionality of the power controller 47 can be implemented in hardware and / or software and can depend on one or more data mappings associated with the operation of the external power supply 45. For this purpose, the power controller 47 can be operatively associated with memory. The memory can include one or more of internal memory, external memory, and / or remote memory (e.g., a database and / or server operatively connected to the power controller 47 via a network (such as, but not limited to, the Internet). Internal and / or external memory may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: read-only memory (ROM) (including programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or sometimes but rarely marked EROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM)), random access memory (RAM) (including dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), single data rate synchronous dynamic RAM (SDR SDRAM), dual data rate synchronous dynamic RAM (DDR SDRAM, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4), and graphics dual data rate synchronous dynamic RAM (GDDR SDRAM, GDDR2, GDDR3, GDDR4, GDDR5, flash memory, portable memory), etc. Such storage media are examples of non-transitory machine-readable and / or computer-readable storage media. In some examples, power controller 47 may typically be an integrated circuit configured to include functional elements of power controller 47 and external power supply 45.

[0269] like Figures 11A-11C As explained, the transmission controller 28 can be used to communicate with one or more of the external power supply 45, power controller 47, or amplifier 42 to control the power level of the power signal within the power transmitter 20. Specifically, the transmission controller 28 is configured to provide a power control signal (P... con To control the power signal V AC The power level, V AC It is configured to transmit to power receiver 30. To control V AC V DCThe transmitter controller 28 may include, implement, and execute firmware to implement and / or functionally provide a voltage controller 41 and a pulse width modulation signal (PWM) generator 43, which may be the voltage of one or more of the intermediate power signals of the power transmitter 20 or any intermediary power signal of the power transmitter 20.

[0270] Voltage controller 41 is typically configured to provide DC power signal V DC Boost or buck, or change the AC power signal V AC One or both of the power level control commands. Furthermore, in order to determine the power control signal (P... con The voltage controller can be configured to receive a power request signal (P) from the power receiver 30. req ), and at least in part based on P req Determine P con P req This can be any information used to determine the desired power level transmitted to the power receiver 30, such as, but not limited to, the current charging level of the load associated with the power receiver 30, the voltage at the rectifier of the power receiver 30, the load resistance associated with the power receiver 30, and other electrical information associated with the power receiver 30. To control V DC The transmitter controller 28 is configured to provide at least a partial P voltage level to the external power supply 45 when the external power supply 45 is input to the amplifier 42. con This allows the power supply to be at least partially based on V. IN and P con Using P con Information to configure V DC and provides V to amplifier 42 DC In some such examples, such as those described above, the power controller 47 is configured to at least partially receive P. con And based on P con To generate voltage regulation commands (V) reg ), V reg Configured for changing V DC The power controller 47 supplies V to the voltage regulator 46. reg This allows the voltage regulator 46 to adjust and / or control V before it is input to the amplifier 42. DC The level of the DC voltage.

[0271] In some examples, P is transmitted to the power controller 47. con The information may include boost commands and / or buck commands (P con_step P con_step This includes a step level, which is configured by voltage regulator 46 and / or power controller 47 to be used when the voltage is drawn from V. INConfigure V DC V DC The step level, step size, and / or voltage change when the DC voltage rises or falls. In some examples, the step level can be proprietary, where a specific voltage level is configured for one or more operations of a particular device. In some other examples, the step level can be a constant rate of voltage change from which the power supply 45 is configured to any power level up to a multiple of the step level of the maximum upper limit output power. Utilizing external power regulation of the external power supply 45 via the power transmitter 20 allows for higher precision in power control by using small step levels. For example, the step level can range from about 10 mV to about 500 mV. In some other examples, the step level can be about 200 mV. Utilizing step levels in the control of the external power supply 45 allows the power transmitter 20 to effectively utilize readily available, inexpensive power supplies instead of more expensive internal voltage regulation hardware.

[0272] Turn now Figure 11B The PWM generator 43 can be used to provide a PWM signal to the amplifier, for at least part of the input V of the amplifier 42. DC To form V AC The PWM generator 43 can generate a PWM signal based at least on the operating frequency provided by the operating frequency generator 48. In some examples, the operating frequency generated by the operating frequency generator 48 can be selected from a range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz.

[0273] In some examples, the PWM generator also includes a duty cycle offset 49, which can be configured to offset, change, and / or otherwise configure the resulting AC power signal V. AC The duty cycle, the resulting AC power signal V AC It is generated at least in part based on a PWM signal (PWM). As defined in this paper, the duty cycle refers to the positive voltage cycle of the AC power signal. For the AC power signal V... AC In an exemplary, ideal sine wave, V AC The initial duty cycle is approximately 50% of the period of the sine wave. Therefore, if V AC If the duty cycle decreases, the effective power output over a period of time will be less than the power output of approximately 50% duty cycle when the ideal sine waveform remains unchanged over a period of time.

[0274] For illustrative and exemplary purposes, Figure 11C Provided to explain based on relative Figure 11A and Figure 11B The effect of the duty cycle offset of the disclosed control system, scheme, and / or equipment on the power output of amplifier 42. For example... Figure 11A and Figure 11BThe explanation in the text is at least partially based on V. DC The PWM generates a power signal V at amplifier 42. AC .like Figure 9C As explained in the text, it has V DC The output of the amplifier with PWM input can produce an initial duty cycle (d) of approximately 50% of the period of a sine wave (T). i The basic sinusoidal waveform is as follows: As explained, this unbiased sinusoidal power signal has an initial root-mean-square voltage (Vm). ACi_rms The initial AC power signal (V) ACi The root mean square (RMS) voltage is the square root of the average of the squares of the instantaneous values ​​of the voltage over a period of time for an AC signal. In other words, the RMS voltage can be thought of as a representation of an equivalent DC value that tells us how many volts of voltage and / or amperes of current the waveform is capable of producing the same power. As explained, V ACi With peak voltage V peak Initial duty cycle d i and period T. If d i Offset and V Peak If T remains essentially constant, the RMS voltage of the waveform will shift proportionally to the duty cycle shift. Therefore, as... Figure 11C As explained in the text, if d i The offset and / or reduction by one offset (s) and T and V remain substantially constant. Peak Then when with V ACi_rms In comparison, it has an offset duty cycle d shift The final output V after offset AC The RMS voltage will have a changed RMS voltage (V) AC_rms ).

[0275] In some examples, the PWM generator 43 can be configured to receive P con Duty cycle offset information (P) con_shift ), and generate a modified PWM to generate a V with a modified duty cycle. AC ,like Figure 9C As explained in the text.

[0276] In such an example, after modification, the root mean square voltage V AC_rms Less than V ACi_rms Without duty cycle offset. Therefore, by utilizing controller 28 and / or PWM generator 43 to offset V AC Duty cycle, V AC Precise control of the output power level can be achieved through V AC The duty cycle offset is achieved through direct software and / or hardware control.

[0277] By incorporating an external power supply control system, method, and / or apparatus with a duty cycle offset system, method, and / or apparatus, the power transmitter 20 can achieve precise power level control of the output power signal. Furthermore, such a system, method, and / or apparatus allows for higher precision and / or a wider range of control without requiring additional and / or expensive voltage regulation hardware within the power transmitter 20 itself. As discussed above, the systems, methods, and apparatus are advantageous for utilizing the power transmitter 20 with known, affordable, and readily available power supply components, resulting in cost reduction and / or material cost reduction.

[0278] Turn now Figure 11A and 11B Continue to refer to Figures 1A-10 For the purpose of describing the power control methods, schemes, and / or components of the power transmitter 20, the components of the power transmitter 20 and the external power supply 45 have been explained. Therefore, Figure 12A The block diagram illustrates the interaction between one or more of the power conditioning system 40, amplifier 42, controller 28, external power supply 45, or their components. Therefore, the components of the power transmitter 20 and the external power supply 45 can interact with... Figures 11A-11C The components are similar or analogous, and therefore share a common description, as shown in the reference above. Figures 11A-11C The subject of discussion.

[0279] like Figures 12A-12D As explained, the transmission controller 28 can be used to communicate with one or more of the external power supply 45, power controller 47, or amplifier 42 to control the power level of the power signal within the power transmitter 20. Specifically, the transmission controller 28 is configured to provide a power control signal (P... con To control the power signal V AC The power level, V AC It is configured to transmit to power receiver 30. To control V AC V DC The transmitter controller 28 may include, implement, and execute firmware to implement and / or functionally provide a voltage controller 41 and a pulse width modulation signal (PWM) generator 43, which may be the voltage of one or more of the intermediate power signals of the power transmitter 20 or any intermediary power signal of the power transmitter 20.

[0280] Voltage controller 41 is typically configured to provide DC power signal V DC Boost or buck, or change the AC power signal V AC One or both of the power level control commands. Furthermore, in order to determine the power control signal (P... con The voltage controller can be configured to receive a power request signal (P) from the power receiver 30. req), and at least in part based on P req Determine P con P req This can be any information that determines the required power level to be transmitted to the power receiver 30, such as, but not limited to, the current charging level of the load associated with the power receiver 30, the voltage at the rectifier of the power receiver 30, the load resistance associated with the power receiver 30, and other electrical information associated with the power receiver 30.

[0281] In order to control V DC The transmitter controller 28 is configured to provide at least a partial P voltage level to the external power supply 45 when the external power supply 45 is input to the amplifier 42. con This allows the power supply to be at least partially based on V. IN and P con Using P con Information to configure V DC and provides V to amplifier 42 DC In some such examples, such as in Figure 12A In the examples explained, the power controller 47 is configured to at least partially receive P con And based on P con To generate voltage regulation commands (V) reg ), V reg Configured to change V DC The power controller 47 supplies V to the voltage regulator 46. reg This allows the voltage regulator 46 to adjust and / or control V before it is input to the amplifier 42. DC The level of the DC voltage.

[0282] In some examples, P is transmitted to the power controller 47. con Information may include voltage preset selection instructions (P) con_preset P con_prefig This includes selecting a base DC voltage for DC power, wherein the selection is chosen from one or more preset DC power voltage levels. The preset DC power voltage can be any number of voltages, such that the external power supply 45 is aware of the preset DC power voltage, and the controller 28 is able to deliver the desired preset DC power voltage to the external power supply 45. In some examples, the preset DC voltage can be proprietary, where a specific voltage level is configured for one or more operations of a particular device. In some examples, the preset DC power voltage includes one or more of 5 volts (V), 9V, 15V, or 20V. Utilizing a preset DC voltage in the control of the external power supply 45 allows the power transmitter 20 to effectively utilize readily available, inexpensive power supplies instead of more expensive internal voltage regulation hardware.

[0283] In some other examples, the preset DC voltage can be a step at a constant rate of voltage change, from which power supply 45 is configured to any power level up to a multiple of the step level of the maximum output power. External power regulation via power transmitter 20 using external power supply 45 allows for greater granularity of power control using small step levels. For example, the step level can range from about 10 millivolts (mV) to about 500 mV.

[0284] Turn now Figure 12B The PWM generator 43 can be used to provide a PWM signal to the amplifier, for at least part of the input V of the amplifier 42. DC To form V AC The PWM generator 43 can generate a PWM signal based at least on the operating frequency provided by the operating frequency generator 48. In some examples, the operating frequency generated by the operating frequency generator 48 can be selected from a range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz.

[0285] In some examples, the PWM generator 48 also includes an operating frequency selector 49. The operating frequency selector 49 can receive a P value used to offset the operating frequency selected at the frequency generator 48. con Frequency offset signal (P) con_freq ), in response to the power demand of power transmitter 20. In some examples, P con_freq It can be used to adjust V based on the electrical characteristics of the transmission system 20 in response to a specific frequency within the operating frequency range. AC The frequency shift information is used to perform granular offsetting of the output power. For example, the operating frequency for frequency shift 49 can be selected based on known or derived voltage or current characteristics at a given frequency.

[0286] In a non-limiting example, based on the operating point analysis of the wireless power transmitter, it was found that at higher operating frequencies within the operating range of approximately 87 kHz to approximately 205 kHz, the current output of the power transmitter 20 is larger, where the relationship between the current output and the operating frequency is non-linear. Therefore, for a DC power input to amplifier 42, at a constant DC voltage, changing the operating frequency, and thus changing the current output from the power transmitter 20, can increase or decrease V. AC The output power. For this purpose, the frequency selector 49 can receive the demand for changes to the basic DC voltage of the power supply 45, and granularly determine and generate V. AC The resulting output power.

[0287] For illustrative and exemplary purposes, including Figure 12C and Figure 12DAn exemplary embodiment illustrating the operation frequency selector 49 and its interaction with the operation frequency generator 48 of the PWM signal generator 43. Figure 12C Explained receiving P con_freq As P con Frequency change information (P) alt The PWM signal generator 43A includes a lookup table (LUT) 49C, which is referenced to determine the frequency offset of the operating frequency to achieve P... alt The required frequency change. For this purpose, LUT 49C can be any database, table, memory, remotely accessed memory, and / or data source that compares changes in the power, current, and / or voltage of the power transmitter 20's output power with the frequency and / or frequency offset of the operating frequency, which will cause the desired changes in the power, current, and / or voltage of the power transmitter 20's output power. For this purpose, the data stored in and / or accessed by LUT 49C can be predetermined by one or more of the following: known characteristics of the power transmitter, experimental results regarding the operation of the power transmitter 20 and / or its components, derivations and / or models regarding the electrical performance of the power transmitter 20, known electrical and / or physical characteristics associated with the power transmitter 20 and / or its components, or any other known electrical-frequency relationship.

[0288] Additional or alternative land, such as Figure 12D As illustrated in the example, the PWM signal generator 43 may include a determiner 49D for determining an appropriate operating frequency offset based on the value of Palt. Therefore, the determiner 49D can be any non-static model, simulation, derived relation, control loop, integrator, and / or determiner that receives a requested power change and determines the operating frequency shift of said power change based on a known value of the base DC power signal and a desired change from the base DC power level. The determiner 49D can be based on experimental derivation, mathematical derivation, observations derived from modeling results, and other systems, methods, and apparatus for determining the relationship between the power of a given power transmitter 20 and its operating frequency.

[0289] By incorporating an external power supply control system, method, and / or apparatus with a frequency offset system, method, and / or apparatus, the power transmitter 20 can achieve granular power level control of the output power signal. Furthermore, such a system, method, and / or apparatus allows for greater granularity and / or a wider range of control without requiring additional and / or expensive voltage regulation hardware within the power transmitter 20 itself. As discussed above, the systems, methods, and apparatus are advantageous for utilizing the power transmitter 20 with known, affordable, and readily available power supply components, resulting in cost reduction and / or material cost reduction.

[0290] Turn now Figure 13 And continue to refer to Figures 12A-12C A block diagram illustrating an exemplary method 600 for controlling the power input and / or output of a power transmitter 20 is provided. Method 600 may begin at block 605, where the transmitter controller 28 receives P from the power receiver 30. req As explained in box 610, method 600 may include P-based methods. req Determine P con Furthermore, method 600 includes providing P to an external power supply 45 and / or any of its components. con P con_preset .

[0291] External power transmitter 45 is at least based on P con_preset Determine V reg (Box 620), and based on V reg Determine V DC and V DC Provided to power transmitter 20 (at amplifier 42) (box 625).

[0292] In some examples, such as reference Figure 11C The best-described examples, method 600, can also include those for V. AC Further required voltage configuration to determine P con (P) con_freq The operating frequency offset is as explained in box 630. Furthermore, it can then be based on P. con_freq To change and / or adjust the PWM, as explained in box 635.

[0293] Amplifier 42 is configured to receive a PWM signal from transmitter controller 28, as explained in block 540. Amplifier 42 then operates at least partially based on V... DC And PWM to generate V AC As explained in box 645.

[0294] Figure 14 This is an exemplary schematic diagram 120 of an embodiment of the power transmitter 20. In this schematic diagram, the amplifier 42 drives the transmitter coil 21 and the series capacitor C. S A full-bridge inverter 142. In some examples, the power transmitter 20 operates at a frequency ranging from about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz, and the transmitter coil 21 has a self-inductance ranging from about 5 µH to about 7 µH. In some such examples, C S It has a capacitance in the range of about 400 nF to about 450 nF.

[0295] Based on the control configured by the control and communication system 26, the input power supply 112, embodying the input power supply 12, is modified to control the amount of power transmitted to the power receiver 30. The input voltage from the input power supply 112 to the full-bridge inverter 142 can be varied in the range of about 1 volt (V) to about 19V to control the power output. In such examples, the voltage resolution of the input power supply 112 can be 10 millivolts (mV) or less. In some examples, when the power transmitters 20, 120 first apply a power signal to transmit to the power receiver 30, the power signal of the input power supply 112 has an initial input power voltage in the range of about 4.5V to about 5.5V.

[0296] The transmitter coil 21 can be of the wound type, for example, wound with Litz wire. As defined herein, Litz wire refers to a type of multi-strand wire or cable used in electronics to carry alternating current at a certain frequency. Litz wire is designed to reduce skin effect and proximity effect losses in conductors at frequencies up to about 1 MHz and consists of many fine wire bundles that are individually insulated and twisted or braided together following a pattern. In some examples, the Litz wire can be 17 AWG (1.15 mm) type 2 Litz wire with 105 strands of 40 AWG (0.08 mm diameter), or equivalent wire. In some examples, the Litz wire used for the transmitter coil 21 can be double-strand Litz wire. For this purpose, using thicker Litz wire, such as 17 AWG type 2 Litz wire, using double-strand Litz wire, and combinations thereof, can result in an increase in the quality factor (Q) of the transmitter coil 21, and a higher Q can be directly related to an increase in the height of the gap 17 and / or the Z-distance. Since Q is directly related to the magnitude of the magnetic field generated by the transmitter antenna 21, and therefore, compared to conventional transmission coils with lower Q designs, the field emitted from the transmitter antenna 21 can achieve a larger Z-distance and / or charge while generating a larger magnetic field. Although the Litz wire has been described and explained, other equivalent and / or functionally similar wires can be used. Furthermore, Litz wires of other sizes and thicknesses can be used.

[0297] Turning Figure 15 Figure 121 illustrates an exemplary view of the dimensions of the transmitter antenna 21. Figure 121 is a top perspective view of the transmitter antenna 21 and shows the top surface 60 of the transmitter antenna 21. Note that Figure 121 is not necessarily to scale and is for illustrative purposes. The top surface 60 and the transmitter antenna 21 are generally relatively circular in shape. As explained, the outer diameter d... o It is defined as the outer diameter of the transmitter antenna 21. In some examples, the outer diameter d oThe outer diameter is in the range of approximately 40 mm to approximately 50 mm. The inner diameter d i The inner diameter d is defined as the diameter of the empty space inside the transmitter antenna 21. i It can have an inner diameter length ranging from about 15 mm to about 25 mm. Outer diameter d o and inner diameter d i They can be relatively concentric relative to each other. The transmitter coil 21 has a thickness t. w It is defined as the thickness of the wire in the coil. Thickness t w It can be in the range of approximately 2 mm to approximately 3 mm. In such an example, the transmitter coil 21 can be made of Litz wire and comprises at least two layers stacked on top of each other. Utilizing an increased inner diameter d i Increased outer diameter d o The specific dimensions and / or combinations thereof disclosed herein in one or more of the plurality of Litz wire layers used for antenna 21 may be advantageous for achieving a greater gap 17 height and / or Z distance. Other shapes and dimensions of transmitter antenna 21 may be selected based on a configuration of the shape and size of the shield having the transmitter coil. Where required shielding is necessary, according to one embodiment, the shape and size of transmitter antenna 21 may be shaped and configured such that the shield surrounds transmitter antenna 21.

[0298] Turn now Figure 16 The diagram illustrates a cross-sectional view of transmitter coil 21, located within base station 11 and partially surrounded by transmitter coil shield 80. Shield 80 includes a ferrite core and defines a cavity 82 configured such that when transmitter antenna 21 is placed within the cavity, the ferrite core substantially surrounds all of transmitter antenna 21 except for its top surface 60. As used herein, “surround” is intended to include covering, encircling, enclosing, extending around, or otherwise providing shielding. In this context, “substantially surrounding” may include small, uncovered portions of the coil. For example, a power line may connect transmitter coil 21 to a power source. The power line may enter via an opening in the sidewall of shield 80. Transmitter coil 21 may be uncovered at or near this connection. In another example, transmitter coil 21 may be slightly raised out of the cavity, and therefore the top of the sidewall may be uncovered. For instance, substantially surrounding would include at least 50+% coverage of this portion of the transmitter antenna. However, in other examples, shielding can provide greater or less coverage for one or more sides of the transmitter antenna 21. In one embodiment, such as Figure 16As shown, shielding 80 at least surrounds the entire bottom of transmitter antenna 21 and virtually all of its sides. As used herein, the entire bottom of transmitter antenna 21 may include, for example, the entire bottom surface of transmitter antenna 21 or all turns of the Litz line of transmitter antenna 21. Regarding the sidewalls, as... Figure 16 As shown, the magnetic ring 84 does not extend all the way above the sidewall of the transmitter antenna 21. However, as shown in other illustrations, the sidewall may extend all the way above the sidewall.

[0299] In another embodiment, shielding 80 may surround less than the entire bottom of transmitter antenna 21. For example, connecting wires (e.g., such as...) Figure 18A , 18B The connecting line 292 (which is the best explanation in the text and is discussed below) can pass through the opening at the bottom of shield 80.

[0300] In one embodiment, such as Figure 16 As shown, shield 80 is an "E-core" type shield, wherein when the shield is viewed in cross-section in a side view, the structural elements of cavity 82 and shield 80 are configured in an E-shape. The E-core is configured in... Figure 17 The text further illustrates that, Figure 17 This is a perspective view of shield 80. Shield 80 may include a magnetic core 86, a magnetic backing 85, and a magnetic ring 84. The magnetic core 86 is spaced inward from the outer edge of the magnetic backing 85 and protrudes upward from the top surface of the magnetic backing 85. The magnetic core 86 and the magnetic ring 84 are used to surround the transmitter coil 21 and guide and focus the magnetic field, thereby improving coupling with the receiver coil 31 of the power receiver 30.

[0301] In addition to covering the entire outer diameter of the transmitter coil 21, the shield 80 can also cover the inner diameter d of the transmitter coil. i In other words, as shown in the figure, the internal portion of the E-core configuration can protrude upwards through the middle of the transmitter coil 21.

[0302] In one embodiment, cavity 82 is configured such that shield 80 covers the entire bottom and the entire side of transmitter coil 21. The top of transmitter coil 21 is not covered. The bottom of transmitter coil 21 is the side of transmitter coil 21 opposite to the direction in which primary power is transmitted to receiver coil. For a wire-wound transmitter coil 21, the side of transmitter coil 21 includes the side of the outermost winding of coil 21.

[0303] Figure 18A It is transmitter coil 21 and Figure 16 A perspective view of an embodiment of the E-core shielding, and Figure 18B It is transmitter coil 21 and Figure 16An exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the E-core shield. The transmitter coil 21 is positioned above the shield 80, and as discussed above, the combination of structures may include a combination of a magnetic core 86, a magnetic backing 85, and a magnetic ring 84. The magnetic shielding assembly serves to guide and concentrate the magnetic field generated by the transmitter coil 21 and may also limit additional side effects caused by magnetic flux passing through nearby metallic objects. In some examples, the magnetic ring defines an opening 88 through which the connecting wire 292 of the transmitter coil 21 can exit the shield 80.

[0304] As defined herein, the “shielding material” forming shield 80 is a material that traps the magnetic field. An example of this is a ferrite material. The ferrite shielding material chosen for shield 80 also depends on the operating frequency, as the complex permeability (μ = μ′ - j × μ〃) is frequency-dependent. This material can be a sintered flexible ferrite sheet or a rigid shield, and can be composed of different material compositions. In some examples, the ferrite material used for shield 80 may include Ni-Zn ferrite, Mn-Zn ferrite, and any combination thereof.

[0305] Return now Figure 16 And continue to refer to Figure 17 and Figures 18A-18B The shield 80 is aligned with the transmitter antenna 21 such that the shield 80 substantially surrounds the transmitter antenna 21 on all sides except the top surface 60. In other words, the transmitter antenna 21 can be wound around the magnetic core 86 and surrounded on the bottom and sides by a magnetic backing 85 and a magnetic ring 84, respectively. As explained, the shield 80, in the form of one or both of the magnetic backing and the magnetic core, can extend beyond the outer diameter d of the transmitter antenna 21. o Shielding extension distance d e In some examples, the shielding extension distance d e It can be in the range of approximately 5 mm to approximately 6 mm. As explained, the shield 80 at the magnetic backing 85 and the transmitter coil 21 are separated from each other by a distance d. s In some examples, the interval distance d s It can be in the range of approximately 0.1 mm and 0.5 mm.

[0306] The interface surface 70 of base station 11 is located at a distance d from the interface gap between transmitter coil 21 and shield 80. int Interface surface 70 is a surface on base station 11 configured such that when power receiver 30 approaches interface surface 70, power receiver 30 can couple with power transmitter 20 via near-field magnetic induction between transmitter antenna 21 and receiver antenna 31 to achieve wireless power transfer. In some examples, the interface gap distance d int It can be in the range of approximately 8 mm to approximately 10 mm. In such an example, d intGreater than the standard Z distance (3-5 mm) required for Qi™ certified wireless power transmission. Therefore, by having a larger d int An empty space and / or insulator can be provided between the transmission coil 21 and the interface surface 70 to mitigate heat transfer to the interface surface 70, power receiver 30, and / or electronic device 14 during operation. Furthermore, this larger d int The interface design allows for an attachment structure where, during operation, objects on or attached to the electronic device 14 can remain attached to the electronic device. Design features of the interface surface 70, as described in more detail below, may be included for interacting with such objects to align the power transmitter 20 and the power receiver 30 for operation.

[0307] Now back Figure 18B An exemplary coil 221 serving as the transmitter antenna 21 is illustrated in an exploded view of the transmitter antenna 21 and shield 80. Coil 221 includes one or more double-stranded Litz wires 290 for the first double-stranded coil layer 261 and the second double-stranded coil 262. As defined herein, “double-stranded” refers to two closely spaced coils, parallel threads, and / or wires. Each of the first and second double-stranded coil layers 261, 262 includes N turns. In some examples, each of the first and second double-stranded coil layers 261, 262 includes approximately 4.5 turns and / or the double-stranded coil layers 261 and 262 may include a number of turns ranging from approximately 4 to approximately 5 turns. In some examples, the one or more double-stranded Litz wires 290 may be 17 AWG (1.15 mm) type 2 Litz wire with 105 strands of 40 AWG wire (0.08 mm diameter) or equivalent wire. Using multilayer, thick Litz wire, double-strand Litz wire, or any combination thereof can result in a larger Q for coil 21 and / or can result in an increased gap 17 height and / or an increased Z distance between coil 21 and the receiver coil.

[0308] Figure 19A This is a first block diagram 311A ​​for the implementation of base station 11. As explained, a power transmitter 20 is included within base station 11. In some examples, base station 11 includes one or more user feedback mechanisms 300, each of which is configured to assist a user in aligning a power receiver 30 and / or its associated electronics 14 with an activity area 310 for wireless power transfer via transmitter coil 21, wherein the power receiver 30 is configured to acquire near-field induced power from transmitter coil 21. As defined herein, the term "near-field induced power" refers to any area, volume, and / or space near interface 70 where the power transmitter 20 is capable of transmitting near-field induced power to the power receiver 30.

[0309] One or more user feedback mechanisms 300 may include one or more of a visual feedback display 302, a haptic feedback mechanism 304, an auditory feedback mechanism 306, a mark 308 on the interface surface 70, any other feedback mechanism 300, and any combination thereof. The visual feedback display 302 is configured to visually indicate the correct alignment of the power receiver 30 with the active area 310. The visual feedback display 304 may include, but is not limited to, a visual screen, a lamp, a light-emitting diode (LED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), other visual displays, and / or any combination thereof. The haptic feedback mechanism 304 is configured to tactilely indicate whether the power receiver 30 is correctly aligned with the active area 310. The haptic feedback mechanism 304 may include, but is not limited to, haptic feedback devices, vibration devices, other haptic feedback mechanisms, and any combination thereof. The auditory feedback device 306 is configured to audibly indicate whether the power receiver 30 is correctly aligned with the active area 310. The auditory feedback mechanism 306 may include, but is not limited to, a speaker, a sound generator, a speech generator, audio circuitry, an amplifier, other audible feedback devices, and any combination thereof.

[0310] Mark 308 can be any visual and / or mechanical sign indicating where the user of electronic device 14 should place his / her / their electronic device 14 on interface surface 70 such that the power transmitter 20 will be properly aligned with the power receiver 30 of electronic device 14. Additionally or alternatively, mark 308 can indicate the location of effective area 310 and / or the appropriate position within effective area 70. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 311A, mark 308A can be a substantially two-dimensional visual indicator marked on interface surface 70. A substantially two-dimensional mark 308A can include, but is not limited to, printed indicators, logos, messages instructing the user to place electronic device 14 on mark 308A, any other substantially two-dimensional mark, and any combination thereof. In an alternative embodiment, in Figure 19BIn the second schematic block diagram 311B of the explanation, the mark 308B is a substantially three-dimensional and / or mechanical mark 308B, such as, but not limited to, a notch and / or recess in the interface surface 70. The three-dimensional mark 308B can be configured to interact with a mechanical component 72 of the electronic device 14. The mechanical component 72 can be any mechanical component of the electronic device 14 and / or another connected mechanical component and / or device associated with the electronic device 14. Thus, the interaction between the mechanical component 72 and the three-dimensional mark 308B can be configured to align the power transmitter 20 with the power receiver 30 of the electronic device 14. For example, the mechanical component 72 can be an external protrusion positioned relatively close to the power receiver 30 of the electronic device 14, and the mark 308B is configured to receive the mechanical component, and depending on the nature of this reception, the power transmitter 20 and the power receiver 30 are appropriately aligned for near-field sensing wireless power transfer. In some such examples, electronic device 14 is a mobile device, such as a smartphone and / or tablet computing device, and mechanical part 72 may be a gripping device configured to grip an externally attached electronic device 14 in use. In such examples, reference numeral 308B is configured to receive the gripping device mechanical part 72 and allow proper alignment of the power transmitter 20 and power receiver 30 for near-field inductive wireless power transfer, while the removable mechanical part 72 remains attached to electronic device 14. Figure 20 This is an exemplary practical simulation 900 of the magnetic field generated by the transmitter coil 21 and / or its associated power transmitter 20 and captured by the exemplary receiver coil 31 and / or its associated power receiver 30 when the transmitter coil 21 and / or power transmitter 20 are designed, manufactured, and / or implemented in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. The receiver coil 30 is a standard Qi™ receiver coil utilized by commercial electronic devices such as mobile phones, and the receiver coil 30 is modeled with a metal component behind the coil, which is used to simulate a battery. The simulation shows the magnetic field generated by the transmitter coil 20 being captured by the receiver coil 30 at an extended Z distance of 9 mm. As previously discussed, Qi... TM Wireless transmitter coils typically operate within a coil-to-coil distance of approximately 3 mm to approximately 5 mm. The shaped magnet of transmitter coil 21 has been shown to advantageously reshape the magnetic field so that coil-to-coil coupling can occur at an extended Z-distance, wherein the Z-distance extends approximately 2 to approximately 5 times the standard Qi. TM The distance of wireless power transfer. Furthermore, the shaped magnet of this application can currently... TMThe coupling of the wireless power sub-transmitter extends to a Z-distance of approximately 5 mm to approximately 25 mm. Compared to standard current power transmitters, any E-core and / or additional or replacement custom shapes for shielding 80 can be successfully used to reshape the magnetic field to extend the Z-distance coupling by at least 5%. Additionally, any E-cores and custom shapes previously discussed (each in combination with its relationship to the coil-to-magnetic field) may further increase the Z-direction coupling by at least an additional 5%. One embodiment including a structure comprising a coil and magnetic material, wherein the gap between the coil and the magnetic material located at the inner diameter of the coil is 2 mm, reshapes the magnetic field, increasing the coupling by 5%.

[0311] As discussed above, the transmitter coil 21, power transmitter 20, and / or base station 11 disclosed herein achieve significant improvements in Z-distance and / or gap 17 height compared to conventional, low-frequency (e.g., in the range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz) transmission coils, power transmitters, and / or base stations. For this purpose, the extended Z-distance not only extends the linear distance within which the receiver can be placed and properly coupled to the transmitter, but also extends the three-dimensional charging and / or operating volume (“charging volume”) within which the receiver can receive wireless power signals from the transmitter. For the examples below, the discussion fixes the lateral spatial degrees of freedom (X and Y distances) of the receiver coil positioned relative to the transmitter coil as control variables. Thus, for the purposes of discussion only, it is assumed that the X and Y distances of base station 11, power transmitter 20, and / or transmitter coil 21 are substantially similar to those of conventional systems. However, it is of course contemplated that the invention disclosed herein can increase one or both of the X and Y distances. Furthermore, while this example uses an exemplary range of 8-10 mm for the Z-distance of base station 11, power transmitter 20, and / or transmitter coil 21, it is certainly conceivable and experimental results have shown that base station 11, power transmitter 20, and / or transmitter coil 21 can indeed achieve Z-distances with lengths greater than approximately 10 mm, such as, but not limited to, up to 15 mm and / or up to 30 mm. Therefore, the table below is merely exemplary and for illustration of the significant, useful, and beneficial impact of the extended Z-distance achieved by base station 11, power transmitter 20, and / or transmitter coil 21 on the amount of charge associated with one or more of base station 11, power transmitter 20, and / or transmitter coil 21.

[0312]

[0313] Therefore, compared to conventional low-power wireless power transmitters, the effective charging volume can be increased by more than 100% by utilizing base station 11, power transmitter 20, and / or transmitter coil 21. Thus, base station 11, power transmitter 20, and / or transmitter coil 21 can achieve large Z-distances, gap heights, and / or charging volumes that are impossible for conventional low-frequency systems but are considered possible only in lower-power, high-frequency (e.g., above approximately 2 MHz) wireless power transfer systems.

[0314] Figure 21A and Figure 21B The coil array 321 has been described, which can be used as a transmitter antenna 21 for one or more of the power transmitter 21, base station 11, or combinations thereof. As explained, the coil array 321 may include two or more transmitter coils 322, which may be constructed according to the specifications of the transmitter antenna 21, as discussed above, regarding dimensions, materials, and combinations thereof, as referred to... Figures 14-18B As stated. Although Figures 21A-21B The exemplary coil array 321 shows three transmitter coils 322, but the coil array 321 is certainly not limited to having only three transmitter coils 322. Furthermore, since the transmitter coils 322 are described as having a substantially linear and / or rectangular layout, they are certainly not limited to a substantially linear and / or rectangular layout; examples of other layouts include, but are not limited to, layouts including substantially square layouts, substantially triangular layouts, asymmetrical layouts, and other contemplated layouts. Moreover, while the transmitter coils 322 are described as being layered and / or stacked relative to at least one coil (e.g., first and second transmitter coils 322A, 322B are positioned or stacked above a third transmitter coil 322C), it is of course contemplated that the transmitter coils 322 may have other stacked or layered arrangements, or that the transmitter coils 322 may not be stacked and are substantially coplanar. Furthermore, while the transmitter coil 322 is described as substantially circular and / or oval in shape, it is contemplated that the transmitter coil 322 may have any acceptable shape for wireless power delivery, including (but not limited to) substantially square, substantially rectangular, substantially elliptical, substantially polygonal, and other contemplated shapes.

[0315] like Figure 21A As shown, transmitter coils 322A and 322B are adjacent to each other in a first plane. In some embodiments, the outer edges of transmitter coils 322A and 322B may touch or nearly touch. Nearly touching may be considered with a small gap. Transmitter coil 322C is in a second plane below the first plane. Figure 21AAs shown, the center of transmitter coil 322C is located between adjacent transmitter coils 322A and 322B in a second plane. The first plane is different from the second plane. The first plane is above the second plane in the direction of wireless power transmission. It is possible that the first and second planes can be reversed, and the second plane is above the second plane in the direction of wireless power transmission. In some embodiments, the center of transmitter coil 322C may be offset from a position between adjacent transmitter coils 322A and 322B. For example, in one embodiment, the center of transmitter coil 322C may be offset to align with the center of transmitter coil 322B or 322A.

[0316] As explained, the coil array 321 includes a shield 380. The shield 380 includes a ferrite core and defines a cavity 382, ​​which is configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds all but the top surface of each of the transmitter coils 322, similar to the shield 80 discussed above. As explained, the shield 380 at least surrounds the entire bottom of the transmitter coil 322 and virtually all of the sides of the transmitter coil 322.

[0317] Although it may not be "E-core" shielding, it does shield 380 (in Figure 22 The shield 380 (described as without transmitter coil 322) is configured to functionally replicate shield 80, but for multiple coils. Thus, without maintaining a substantially E-shaped cross-section, the configuration and position of the structural members of shield 380 are configured to substantially surround transmitter coil 322, similar to how E-core shield 80 substantially surrounds a single transmitter antenna 21. Shield 380 may include a magnetic core 386, a magnetic backing 385, and a magnetic wall 384. Magnetic core 386 is spaced inward from the outer edge of magnetic backing 385 and projects upward from the top surface of magnetic backing 385. Magnetic core 386 and magnetic wall 384 are used to surround transmitter coil 322 and guide and focus the magnetic field, thereby improving coupling with receiver coil 31 of power receiver 30.

[0318] As in Figure 22 As seen in the diagram, cavity 382 is configured such that shield 380 covers the entire bottom of transmitter coil 322 (e.g., using magnetic backing 385) and the entire side portion of transmitter coil 322 (e.g., using magnetic walls 384). The top of transmitter coil 322 is not covered. The bottom of transmitter coil 322 is the side of transmitter coil 322 opposite to the direction of primary power transfer to receiver antenna 31 (e.g., the opposite side of the top surface of coil 322). For wire-wound transmitter coil 322, the side portion of transmitter coil 322 includes the side portion of the outermost winding of transmitter coil 322.

[0319] The transmitter coil 322 is positioned above the shield 380. As discussed above, the combination of structures may include a combination of a magnetic core 386, a magnetic backing 385, and a magnetic ring 384. The magnetic shielding assembly serves to guide and concentrate the magnetic field generated by the coil 322 and also to limit side effects otherwise caused by magnetic flux passing through nearby metallic objects. In some examples, the magnetic ring defines one or more openings 388 through which the connecting wires 389 of each transmitter coil 322 can exit the shield 380.

[0320] In addition to substantially surrounding the outer diameter of the transmitter coil 322, the shield 380 may also cover a portion of the internal region associated with the transmitter coil 322. That is, as shown, the internal portion of the shield 380 may protrude upward through the middle of each transmitter coil 322. In this example, based on the layout / configuration of the coil array 321, the three magnetic cores 386A, 386B, and 386C may have different shapes. Thus, these different shapes are each configured to fill the gaps between the open spaces between the elements of each of the transmitter coils 322, such that the region on the interior of the innermost turn of the transmitter coil 322 is substantially filled with one or more of the other transmitter coil 322 and some of the magnetic cores 386. It should be noted that the shapes of the magnetic cores 386A-C are merely exemplary, and the magnetic cores 386 may be any shape that substantially fills the voids inside the transmitter coil 322.

[0321] Turn now Figures 23A to 26B An exemplary housing 400A is described. A power transmitter 20 is housed within the housing 400A, and an exemplary mobile device 414 is shown, which can be configured to receive wireless power from the power transmitter 20. Therefore, a power receiver 30 may be part of or operatively associated with a mobile device, and the mobile device 414 may be an electronic device 14 operatively associated with the power receiver 30. Figure 23A Perspective views of the exemplary housing 400A and mobile device 414 are illustrated, while Figure 23B The front view illustrates the housing 400A and mobile device 414 when the mobile device 414 is positioned relative to the housing 400A such that the power receiver 30 can receive wireless power signals from the power transmitter 20. In some examples, the mobile device 414 may have an associated peripheral device 418, which is a physical device that can be attached to the mobile device 414. Examples of peripheral devices include, but are not limited to, housings, grip devices, dedicated grip devices, wallets, etc. In some examples, when the mobile device 414 is positioned relative to the housing 400, the power transmitter 20 may be configured to couple to the power transmitter 30 via the housing 400 and the peripheral device 418 for wireless power transfer purposes.

[0322] Figure 24A and 24B They presented respectively with Figure 23A and 23B Similar perspective and top views are provided, but housing 440 is described as transparent, allowing some internal components of system 20 to be explained. Transmitter antenna 21 and / or coil array 321 are housed within housing 440, and transmitter antenna 21 is not limited to coil array 321, but can be any transmitter antenna 21 capable of providing wireless power to receiver system 30 of mobile device 414 when the mobile device is positioned relative to housing 400 for wireless power transfer. As will be discussed in more detail below, housing may house fan 410, which is part of power transfer system 20 and can be used to generate airflow for cooling one or more of the power transmitter 20 components, antenna 21, mobile device 414, housing 400, and combinations thereof.

[0323] As in Figure 25 As best illustrated in the cross-section of the housing 400A, the fan 410 and / or any other airflow source may be positioned in communication with an airflow opening 430 of the housing 400. The airflow opening 430 may be any cavity, slit, and / or gap within the housing 400 that allows airflow to be in fluid communication between the airflow source (e.g., fan 410) and one or more airflow channels of the housing, configured to provide airflow for cooling one or more of the housing 400, mobile device 414, power transmitter 20, transmitter antenna 21, or power transmitter 20 components. As defined herein, “airflow” means at least any movement of air (including materials, gases, and / or particles mixed therewith) into or out of the housing 400 in a fluid manner. In some examples, airflow may refer to the flow of a mass of particles, fluids, and / or gases from a higher pressure area to a lower pressure area. Airflow may be mechanically induced (e.g., operating a fan and / or an external airflow source) or may be caused by a natural source (e.g., opening an opening to an external non-vacuum atmosphere). As defined herein, “in fluid communication” refers to the relationship between two or more structures, gaps and / or regions of a mechanical body, wherein fluids (e.g., gases, liquids, plasmas, airflows, etc.) can flow into or out of each other when subjected to some force.

[0324] exist Figure 25In this context, exemplary airflow is illustrated by a thick dashed line with arrows indicating the direction of airflow. Although illustrated as pushing air outward from the airflow opening 430 of the housing 400, it is of course contemplated that instead of pushing airflow from the airflow opening 4300 to the outside of the housing 400 to cool one or more of the power transmitter 20 components, antenna 21, mobile device 414, housing 400, or combinations thereof, the airflow could be reversed and drawn through the airflow opening 430 to an external source to draw heat away from the mobile device 414 to cool one or more of the power transmitter 20 components, antenna 21, mobile device 412, housing 400, or combinations thereof.

[0325] To allow for this type of cooling, the housing 400 defines at least a front surface 402A, an airflow opening 430, a first airflow channel 431, a second airflow channel 432, and a protrusion 408. Such structural elements of the housing 400A can be... Figure 26A and 26B The perspective view of the housing 400A is best illustrated, with the mobile device 414 removed. A front surface 402A is configured to replace the mobile device 414 for wireless power transfer from the power transmitter 20 to or from the power receiver of the mobile device 414. For example, when positioned relative to the housing 400 for wireless power transfer, the mobile device 414 may rest against the front surface 402A. An airflow opening 430 is configured to provide airflow, as discussed above. As discussed above, the airflow may be provided to the airflow opening via a mechanical device, such as a fan 410. In some such examples, the housing 400 further defines a fan cavity 411A for accommodating at least a fan, and the fan cavity 411A is in fluid communication with at least the airflow opening 430 for providing at least some of the airflow to the airflow opening. A first airflow passage 431 is configured to provide at least some of the airflow via one or more of the front surface 402A and the rear surface 416 of the mobile device 414, which are in fluid communication with the airflow opening 430. In some examples and as in Figure 26A and 26B As best illustrated in the perspective view of the housing 400A, the first airflow channel 431 may include a first airflow channel cavity 435. The first airflow channel cavity 435 extends at least partially about a first thickness 403A, which is defined as the thickness between the front surface 402A and the rear surface 404A of the housing. The first airflow channel cavity 435 allows airflow supplied to / from the first airflow channel 431 to direct heat away from one or more of the mobile device's rear surface 416, antenna 21, mobile device 414, housing 400, and combinations thereof. In some examples and as... Figure 26BAs best explained herein, the first airflow passage 431 also includes a first passage opening 437, which is in fluid communication with at least the airflow opening 430. The first passage opening 437 is configured to provide at least some airflow from the airflow opening 430 to one or more of the first airflow passage cavity 435 or the rear surface 416 of the moving device. In some such examples, the first passage opening 437 is defined as a first opening in the top surface 409 of the protrusion 408, and thus the protrusion 408 and the opening defining the first passage opening 437 are in fluid communication with the airflow opening 430.

[0326] In some examples, the first airflow passage further includes at least one vent 439 in fluid communication with the first airflow passage cavity 435. As explained, at least one vent 439 is configured to direct airflow to the exterior of the housing 400 and / or to the first airflow passage 431 on one or more sides of the housing 400; however, the vent 439 is not limited to such an arrangement, as long as the vent 439 remains in fluid communication with the first airflow passage 431 and the environment outside the housing 400. Thus, at least one vent 439 opens to the environment outside the housing 400 and allows external airflow to enter or exit one or more of the housings 400.

[0327] The protrusion 408 extends at least partially outward from the front surface 402A and includes a top surface 409, wherein the top surface 409 forms an angle with the front surface 402A. The angle 407 is less than about 180 degrees and greater than about 0 degrees. In some examples, the angle 407 is configured such that when the mobile device 414 is placed adjacent to the front surface 402A, the front surface 417 of the mobile device is in an appropriate viewing angle relative to the user of the mobile device 414. The second airflow passage 432 is configured to provide at least some of the airflow via one or more of the airflow opening 430, adjacent to the top surface 409, the front surface 417 of the mobile device, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the second airflow passage 432 includes a second passage opening 438, which is at least in fluid communication with the airflow opening 430 (e.g., not blocked or restricted). The second passage opening 438 is configured to provide at least some of the airflow from the airflow opening 430 to the front surface 417 of the mobile device. In some examples, the second channel opening 437 is defined as an opening in the top surface 409 of the protrusion that is in fluid communication with at least the airflow opening 430. In some such examples, the airflow opening 430 may be angled inward toward the front surface 402A relative to another surface of the top surface 409 of the protrusion. In such examples, the angled airflow opening 430 is configured to provide airflow in a directional manner at the front surface 417 of the mobile device. Figure 25In some examples, the mobile device 414 and / or associated peripheral device 418 may include a mechanical body 419 of a protrusion extending outward in the direction of the rear surface 416 of the mobile device 414. Such associated peripheral devices may be one or more of the following: part of a housing for the mobile device 414, a gripping device, a detachable device, an accessory, a housing for other peripheral devices, etc. In such examples and as... Figure 25 As explained herein, the first airflow channel cavity 435 may be configured to mechanically receive the mechanical body 419, and such reception of the mechanical body 419 at least partially aligns the transmitter antenna 21 of the power transmitter 20 with the receiver antenna 31 of the power receiver 30 for the purpose of wireless power transfer.

[0328] Now refer to Figures 23A-26B As explained, housing 400A includes and / or defines housing support structure 440 and housing base structure 450. Housing support structure includes a front surface 402A and a rear surface 404A, and extends at least partially about a first thickness 403A. Housing base structure includes a top surface 452 and a bottom surface 454, wherein the top surface 452 and bottom surface 454 are separated by housing base structure thickness 456. Housing support structure 440 and housing base structure 450 are respectively positioned such that a support angle 458 is formed at least partially by a portion of the rear surface 404A and a portion of the top surface 452. Angle 458 is greater than about 0 degrees and less than about 180 degrees. In some examples, angle 458 is configured such that when mobile device 414 is placed adjacent to front surface 402A, front surface 416 of mobile device is at an appropriate viewing angle relative to the user of mobile device. Although not illustrated in the exemplary figures, it is of course contemplated that any electrical components of the power transmitter 20 may be additionally housed within the housing 400, such as, but not limited to, components of the control and communication system 26, components of the power regulation system 40, components of the sensing system 50, and / or any other components of or associated with the power transmitter 20.

[0329] Turn now Figure 27A and Figure 27B Another exemplary housing 400B is described. A power transmitter 20 is housed within housing 400B, and a mobile device 414 is shown that can be configured to receive wireless power from the power transmitter 20. Therefore, a power receiver 30 may be part of or operatively associated with a mobile device, and the mobile device 414 may be an electronic device 14 operatively associated with the power receiver 30. Figure 27A The perspective views of the casing 400B and the mobile device 414 were explained, and Figure 27BThe top view illustrates the housing 400B and mobile device 414 when the mobile device 414 is positioned relative to the housing 400B so that the power receiver 30 can receive wireless power signals from the power transmitter 20. (As...) Figures 23A-26B For example, mobile device 414 may have an associated peripheral device 418. One or more of mobile device 414, peripheral device 418, or components thereof may be referenced. Figures 23A-26B The housing 400A includes and describes similar and / or equivalent elements.

[0330] like Figure 26A , Figure 26B One or more of them and / or Figure 28A and Figure 28B As illustrated in the cross-sectional view, the exemplary housing 400B includes reference... Figures 23A-26B The housing 400A includes and describes a number of similar and / or equivalent elements. These elements may include, but are not limited to, a fan 410, an airflow opening 430, a first airflow passage 431, a first airflow passage cavity 435, a first airflow passage opening 437, one or more vents 439, a protrusion 408, a protrusion top surface 409, a second airflow passage 432, and a second airflow passage opening 438. Therefore, Figures 27A-28B Such elements include those with Figures 20-23B Its related analogues share the same reference numerals and the above written description.

[0331] Compared to housing 400A, housing 400B does not include separate base and support structures, but is primarily defined as a pad or flat body on which the mobile device 414 can rest during wireless power transfer in system 10, except for protrusion 408. For this purpose, housing 400B defines a top surface 402B and a bottom surface 404B, on which the mobile device is placed for wireless power transfer. Housing thickness 403B is defined as the thickness between the top surface 402B and the bottom surface 404B. For this purpose, the first airflow channel cavity 435 extends at least partially along housing thickness 403B.

[0332] As in Figure 28A As best explained, when fan 410 is included in power transmitter 20, housing 400B may include fan cavity 411B. Fan cavity 411B is in fluid communication with airflow opening 430 and provides airflow to and / or from airflow opening 430 and / or downstream / upstream of housing 400, power transmitter 20 and / or mobile device 414 in fluid communication.

[0333] Alternatively, such as Figure 28BAs explained, the fan cavity 411B can be replaced by an external airflow source input cavity 411C. The external airflow source input cavity 411C is in fluid communication with the airflow opening 430 and provides fluid communication between the airflow opening 430 and the external airflow source 460. Therefore, the external airflow source input cavity 411C can achieve fluid communication between the airflow opening 430 and the external airflow source 460, wherein the external airflow source provides at least some of the airflow to the airflow opening 430. For this purpose, the external airflow source 460 can be any external airflow source, such as, but not limited to, an external fan, an external ventilation system, an external air conditioning unit, an external intake device, and / or any other external device and / or source configured to provide airflow to and / or from the airflow opening 430. In some examples where the input power supply 12 of the power transmitter 20B is a vehicle power supply (e.g., ...), Figure 1A , Figure 2B , Figure 5B , Figures 8-10 (For example), the external airflow source 460 can be an airflow source for the vehicle 15 or can be operationally associated with the vehicle 15.

[0334] Compared to conventional thermal solutions and / or conventional power transmitter designs used for wireless power transfer, the housing 400 disclosed herein provides greater cooling for the mobile device 414 and / or the power transmitter 20 during wireless power transfer. This enhanced cooling can be achieved by including multiple airflow channels, such as a first airflow channel 431 and a second airflow channel 432, configured to simultaneously provide airflow to multiple surfaces of the mobile device 414. This enhanced cooling of one or both of the power transmitter 20 or the mobile device 414, compared to conventional wireless power transmitters, enables greater thermal relief, allowing the power transmitter 20 to safely deliver higher power levels to the power receiver 30. Furthermore, the housing 400 disclosed herein can provide adequate wireless power transfer without thermal problems in environments with elevated ambient temperatures, such as when the housing 400 is in direct sunlight, when the housing 400 is inside a vehicle, when the housing 400 is near machinery and / or electronic devices that cause elevated heat, and other environments. Additionally or alternatively, such enhanced cooling and / or extended power level and / or distribution of one or both of the power transmitter 20 or the mobile device 414, compared to conventional wireless power delivery systems, may allow for a larger Z-distance and / or gap between the power transmitter 20 and the power receiver 30. Figures 29A to 29EA surface-mountable power transmitter 720 is shown, which may include elements similar to and / or equivalent to those of power transmitter 20, including but not limited to transmitter antenna 21, control and communication unit 26, power conditioning system 40, sensing system 50, any component of the above elements, or any combination thereof. In addition to the elements of the cited power transmitter 20, the surface-mountable power transmitter 720 also includes a surface-mountable housing 400. The surface-mountable housing 400 is at least substantially connected to transmitter antenna 21.

[0335] The surface-mountable housing 700 is configured to mount at least the transmitter antenna 21 to the bottom side of the structural surface, such that the transmitter antenna 21 is configured to couple with the receiver antenna 31 of the power receiver 30 when the receiver antenna is near the top side of the structural surface. (Refer to...) Figures 29A to 32 This configuration of housing 700 and structural surface 800 is discussed in more detail. As defined herein, a “structural surface” is any surface made of a dielectric material in which a user of electronic device 14 will need to provide wireless power transfer to electronic device 14, and said surface is within an environment where wireless power transfer can occur (e.g., an environment where power can be provided to power transmitter 720). Examples of structural surfaces include (but are not limited to) tables, desktops, counters, counter tops, bars, desks, desktops, terminal tables, terminal desktops, furniture, outdoor furniture, chairs, chair arms, armrests, lounge furniture surfaces, interior seating furniture surfaces, home theater furniture, supports, workspace surfaces, conference room table surfaces, walls, wall protrusions, public surfaces, vehicle surfaces, bars, bar tops, ledges, shelves, bookshelves, entertainment centers, cabinet surfaces, and other contemplated surfaces and / or portions of surfaces. Such surfaces can be made of, for example, wood, polymers, concrete, laminated composites, leather, glass, ceramics, foam, and other dielectric materials used for the surface.

[0336] The surface-mountable housing 700 may include a heat sink 430 configured to rest at least partially beneath the transmitter antenna when the power transmitter 720 is attached to the structural surface 800 (as in...). Figure 29C (Best illustrated in the exploded view of the housing 700). The heat sink 730 is configured to direct the heat generated by the power emitter 720 at least away from the structural surface 800. In some examples, and as... Figure 29B and Figure 29E As best explained, the heat sink 730 may include one or more cutouts 722 configured to increase the external surface area of ​​the heat sink, thereby allowing heat to diffuse across the increased surface area, directing and / or dissipating heat away from the power emitter 20 components and / or associated surfaces. Including the cutouts 722 results in a higher rate of heat dissipation into the environment, and thus results in lower temperatures on the heat sink surface and inside the module.

[0337] Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the radiator 730 may be CNC machined or formed using die casting, forging, stamping, or another manufacturing process suitable for low-cost mass production. In some examples, the radiator 730 may be formed from a metal with relatively high thermal conductivity. The radiator 720 may be made at least partially from any metal or metal alloy suitable for die casting and having high thermal conductivity, such as, but not limited to, aluminum or aluminum alloys. In some examples, where the radiator 730 is formed by die casting, one or more surfaces of the radiator 430 with drafts are formed on the outer surface of the radiator 730. To increase emissivity, the radiator may be finished with different coatings, chemically treated, and / or painted. Increased emissivity increases the heat dissipated by the radiator, reducing the temperature rise of components inside the module 700. In some examples, the aluminum die-cast radiator 730 is anodized to produce a uniform black finish, which increases emissivity and thus improves the heat dissipation of the radiator 730.

[0338] Furthermore, in some examples, the power transmitter 720 includes a transmitter electronics circuit board 735. The circuit board 735 can be any circuit board, and components of one or more of the control and communication system 26, the power conditioning system 40, and / or the sensing system 50 can be connected to, mounted, operable, and / or otherwise operatively associated with the circuit board 735. In such examples, a heat sink 730 is configured to conduct and dissipate heat generated by one or more of the electronics circuit board 735 and / or any components located on the electronics circuit board 735 from the structural surface 800. In some examples, the circuit board 735 can be operatively associated with an external power connector 411, which can be configured to interface with an input power source 11 to provide input power to the power transmitter 720. The external power connector 711 can be any input and / or connector providing an electrical connection to the input power source, such as, but not limited to, barrel connectors, Universal Serial Bus (USB) connectors, USB-C connectors, mini-USB connectors, Lightning connectors, Thunderbolt connectors, dedicated electrical connectors, AC adapter connectors, and other contemplated connectors. In some examples, thermal interface material (TIM) 732 is disposed between electronic circuit board 735 and heat sink 730. In some examples, TIM 732 is placed on electronic circuit board 735 and / or power transmitter 720 and / or near one or more heat-generating components operationally associated with electronic circuit board 735 and / or power transmitter 720. Thermal interface material 732 is configured to replace air and provide a low thermal resistance path between components of electronic circuit board 735 and heat sink 730. Examples of thermal interface materials include, but are not limited to, thermal adhesives, thermal gap filters, thermal pads, heat pipes, phase change materials, metal thermal interfaces, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the materials used in the thermal interface material may include, but are not limited to, materials such as, but not limited to, epoxy resins, silicone resins, urethane and acrylates, solvent-based systems, hot melt adhesives and pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes, alumina, boron nitride, zinc oxide, aluminum nitride, gallium indium tin alloy, gallium, epoxy resin, cyanoacrylate, metal oxides, silica, ceramic microspheres, paraffin wax, copper, etc. In some examples, housing 700 also includes an antenna housing 710 that substantially surrounds the sidewalls of antenna 21 (e.g., the magnetic ring 84 of antenna 21 shield 80). Antenna housing 710 is connected to heat sink 720 via, for example, housing 700's connection system 755, as discussed below. Antenna housing 710 can be used to secure the antenna position within the module, prevent any foreign objects made of metal from entering the vicinity of the antenna, hold the components of housing 700 together once the module is installed, and / or for the purpose of encapsulating and / or concealing the components of power transmitter 720 in the finished product of power transmitter 420.In some examples, a portion of the antenna housing 710 may define a part of the connection system 755, as discussed in more detail below. In some examples, the antenna housing 710 is formed of an injection-moldable polymer and / or any other substantially dielectric material.

[0339] Turn now Figure 30 And continue to refer to Figures 1A-29E A power transmitter 720 is described relative to the first structural surface 800A. The power transmitter 720 is attachable to the first structural surface and can be used to transmit wireless power to the power receiver 30 of an electronic device via coupling between the transmitter antenna 21 and the receiver antenna 31 of the power receiver 30. The structural surface 800A has a top side 804A and a bottom side 802A; as discussed above, the power transmitter 720 is configured to be mounted on the bottom side 802A. Figure 30 As best illustrated, a connection system 755 is included to attach the power transmitter 700 to the bottom side 802 of the structural surface 800. As illustrated, the connection system 755 may include one or more connection holes 752 configured to receive one or more fasteners 754 that mate with the connection holes 752 and then extend into the structural surface 800 to secure the power transmitter 720 to the bottom side 802. While illustrated as a combination of holes 752 and fasteners 754, the connection system 755 is certainly not limited to a hole / fastener combination and may be and / or include adhesives, removable connectors, connection materials (e.g., Velcro), magnetic connections, sealing connections, fusion bonding, and other systems, methods, and apparatus for attaching the power transmitter 720 to the structural surface 800.

[0340] Figure 31A and Figure 31B A power transmitter 700 is mounted to a second structural surface 800B, which includes an aperture 810A. This aperture defines a top plate 814A and an opening 812A. An aperture depth 815A is defined as the distance between the top plate 814A and the opening 812A. In some examples, the aperture 810A is configured to receive a power transmitter 720 when mounted on a bottom surface 802A adjacent to the top plate 814A. In some examples, the aperture thickness 815A is less than the surface thickness 805B, and a housing 700 is configured to be mounted on the top plate 814A.

[0341] In another example, Figure 32 A third structural surface 800C, with a top side 804C and a bottom side 802C, is described, defining a surface thickness 805C. Structural surface 800C defines a hole 810B, which has a hole top plate 814B and a hole opening 812B. The thickness between the hole top plate 814B and the hole opening 812B defines a hole thickness 815B. Figures 31A-31B Compared to aperture 810A, aperture 810B has a significantly larger thickness 815B, such that aperture thickness 815B is greater than the thickness of power transmitter 720. In some examples, aperture 810A is configured to receive power transmitter 720 when mounted on the bottom surface 802C near aperture top plate 814B. In some examples, aperture thickness 815B is smaller than surface thickness 805B, and housing 700 is configured to be mounted on aperture top plate 814B. In some examples, surface thickness 805C ranges from about 20 mm to about 60 mm, and aperture thickness 815B ranges from about 5 mm to about 50 mm. Figure 32 As explained, housing 700 is operatively associated with replacement connection system 765, which is configured to attach housing 700 to the underside of surface 804C. Connection system 765 includes a bracket 760 for mounting to the underside of surface 804, the bracket defining one or more holes 762 into which fasteners 754 can be inserted to attach the bracket 760 and, by association, housing 700 to the underside of surface 804C. In some examples, connection system 765 may include an external thermal connector 766 that connects bracket 760 to heat sink 730 via, for example, a central hole 738 of heat sink 730. Thermal connector 766 may be at least partially made of a conductive material similar to heat sink 730 and is configured to further draw and / or dissipate heat from heat sink 730, power emitter 20, and / or surface 804.

[0342] Figure 33 This is an example block diagram of method 1200 for designing power transmitter 20. Method 1200 may include designing one or both of housing 400 and / or associated cooling structures. Method 1200 may also include designing and / or selecting transmitter coil 21 for power transmitter 20, as explained in block 1210. Method 1200 includes tuning power transmitter 20, as explained in block 1220. This tuning may be used for (but is not limited to) impedance matching.

[0343] Method 1200 also includes designing a power conditioning system 40 for the power transmitter 20, as explained in block 1230. The power conditioning system 40 can be designed using any of a number of power output characteristics considered, such as, but not limited to, power transfer efficiency, maximizing transmission gaps (e.g., gap 17), increasing the output voltage to the receiver, mitigating power loss during wireless power transfer, increasing power output without reducing the fidelity of data communication, optimizing the power output of multiple coils receiving power from a common circuit and / or amplifier, and other envisioned power output characteristics. Furthermore, at block 1240, method 1200 can identify and optimize connections and any associated connection components to configure and / or optimize the connection between the input power supply 12 and the power conditioning system 40 of block 1230. Such identification, configuration, and / or optimization may include designing and / or selecting the vehicle input power conditioner 90, selecting and implementing protection mechanisms and / or devices, selecting and / or implementing voltage protection mechanisms, etc.

[0344] Method 1200 also includes designing and / or programming a control and communication system 26 for the power transmitter 20, as explained in block 1250. Components of such a design include, but are not limited to, a sensing system 50, a driver 41, a transmission controller 28, a memory 27, a communication system 29, a thermal sensing system 52, an object sensing system 54, a receiver sensing system 56, (various) electrical sensors 57, (various) other sensors 58, all or part of which, and optionally any of their components.

[0345] Figure 34 This is an example block diagram of a method 2200 for manufacturing a power transmitter 20. Method 2200 may include forming, manufacturing, or otherwise constructing one or both of a housing 400 and / or an associated cooling structure. Method 2200 may also include manufacturing and designing / or selecting a transmitter coil 21 for the power transmitter 20, as explained in block 2210. Method 2200 includes tuning the power transmitter 20, as explained in block 2220. This tuning may be used for (but is not limited to) impedance matching.

[0346] Method 2200 also includes manufacturing a power conditioning system 40 for the power transmitter 20, as explained in block 2230. The power conditioning system 40 may be designed and / or manufactured using any of a number of power output characteristics considered, such as, but not limited to, power transfer efficiency, maximizing transmission gaps (e.g., gap 17), increasing the output voltage to the receiver, mitigating power loss during wireless power transfer, increasing power output without reducing the fidelity of data communication, optimizing the power output of multiple coils receiving power from a common circuit and / or amplifier, and other contemplated power output characteristics. Furthermore, at block 2240, method 2200 may include connecting and / or optimizing connections and any associated connection components to configure and / or optimize the connection between the input power supply 12 of block 2230 and the power conditioning system 40. Such determination, manufacturing, configuration, and / or optimization may include designing and / or selecting the vehicle input power regulator 90, selecting and implementing protection mechanisms and / or devices, selecting and / or implementing voltage protection mechanisms, etc. Method 2200 also includes designing and / or programming a control and communication system 26 for the power transmitter 20, as explained in block 2250. Components of such a design include, but are not limited to, a sensing system 50, a driver 41, a transmission controller 28, a memory 27, a communication system 29, a thermal sensing system 52, an object sensing system 54, a receiver sensing system 56, (various) electrical sensors 57, (various) other sensors 58, all or part of which, and optionally any of their components.

[0347] As used herein, the phrase “at least one of” preceding a series of items (separated by the terms “and” or “or”) modifies the list as a whole, not each member of the list (i.e., each item). The phrase “at least one of” does not require selection of at least one item in every listed item; rather, the meaning of the phrase includes at least one of any single item, and / or at least one of any combination of items, and / or at least one of each item. For example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C” or “at least one of A, B, or C” respectively refer to only A, only B, or only C; any combination of A, B, and C; and / or at least one of each of A, B, and C.

[0348] The predicates “configured to,” “operable to,” and “programmed to” do not imply any specific tangible or intangible modification to the subject, but are intended to be used interchangeably. In one or more embodiments, a processor configured to monitor and control operations or components may also refer to a processor programmed to monitor and control operations, or a processor operable to monitor and control operations. Similarly, a processor configured to execute code can be interpreted as a processor programmed to execute code or operable to execute code.

[0349] Phrases such as “one aspect” do not imply that the aspect is essential to the subject matter or that the aspect is applicable to all configurations of the subject matter. Disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples of this disclosure. Phrases such as “one aspect” may refer to one or more aspects, or vice versa. Phrases such as “an embodiment” do not imply that the embodiment is essential to the subject matter or that the embodiment is applicable to all configurations of the subject matter. Disclosure relating to an embodiment may apply to all embodiments, or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples of this disclosure. Phrases such as “an embodiment” may refer to one or more embodiments, or vice versa. Phrases such as “configuration” do not imply that the configuration is essential to the subject matter or that the configuration is applicable to all configurations of the subject matter. Disclosure relating to a configuration may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples of this disclosure. Phrases such as “configuration” may refer to one or more configurations, or vice versa.

[0350] The term "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" or "as an example" is not necessarily to be construed as superior to or better than other embodiments. Furthermore, within the scope of the terms "comprising," "having," etc., used in the specification or claims, such terms are intended to be included in a manner similar to the term "comprise," as "comprise" is interpreted when used as a conjunction as in the claims.

[0351] Elements of all aspects described herein, whether present or future, that are structural and functionally equivalent to those of ordinary skill in the art, are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended as a donation to the public, whether or not such disclosure is expressly stated in the claims. Pursuant to paragraph 6 of 35 USC §112, no element of a claim may be interpreted unless it is expressly stated using the phrase “means for…” or, in the case of a method claim, using the phrase “steps for…”.

[0352] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, references to elements in the singular form are not intended to mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more." Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term "some" refers to one or more. Masculine pronouns (such as his) include feminine and neuter pronouns (such as her and its), and vice versa. Titles and subtitles (if any) are used for convenience only, not to limit the public disclosure of the subject matter.

[0353] Although this specification contains many specific details, these details should not be construed as limiting the scope of possible claims, but rather as descriptions of specific implementations of the subject matter. Certain features described in the context of individual embodiments within this specification may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented separately or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments. Furthermore, while features may be described above as operating in certain combinations and even initially claimed in this way, one or more features from a claimed combination may be omitted from that combination in some cases, and the claimed combination may be for sub-combinations or variations thereof.

Claims

1. A power transmitter for wireless power transfer at an operating frequency selected from about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz, the power transmitter comprising: The control and communication unit is configured as follows: A power control signal is provided to an external power source to control the power level of an AC power signal configured for transmission to a power receiver, the AC power signal having an initial RMS voltage. The power source is configured to configure DC power based on the power control signal and includes a voltage regulator and a power controller. The power controller is configured to receive the power control signal, generate a voltage regulation command based on the power control signal for changing the DC voltage of the DC power, and provide the voltage regulation command to the voltage regulator to control the DC voltage of the DC power. The voltage regulation command includes a voltage boost command or a voltage buck command for the voltage regulator, the voltage boost command and the voltage buck command having a step level, the step level being a voltage change by which the voltage regulator is configured to increase or decrease the DC voltage of the DC power for the purpose of configuring the initial RMS voltage of the AC power signal. A pulse width modulation signal is generated, the pulse width modulation signal being used to configure an AC frequency for the AC power signal at the operating frequency, the pulse width modulation signal being modified by a duty cycle change, the duty cycle change being configured to reduce the initial root mean square voltage of the AC power signal to an offset root mean square voltage, the offset root mean square voltage being less than the initial root mean square voltage. An inverter circuit is configured to receive DC power from a power source external to the power transmitter and convert the DC power into the AC power signal based on the pulse width modulation signal. as well as A coil configured to transmit the AC power signal to the power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and comprising at least one layer. The power transmitter further includes a shield comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity, the cavity being configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

2. The power transmitter as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control and communication unit is further configured to Receive a power request signal from the power receiver, and The power control signal is determined based on the power request signal.

3. The power transmitter as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The power supply is configured to: Configure the input DC power based on the power control signal to generate the supplied DC power, and The DC power is supplied to the inverter circuit.

4. The power transmitter as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The step level is in the range of approximately 10 millivolts (mV) to approximately 500 mV.

5. The power transmitter as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The step level is approximately 200mV.

6. The power transmitter as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The coil has a thickness ranging from about 2 mm to about 3 mm.

7. The power transmitter as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one layer includes a first layer and a second layer.

8. The power transmitter as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The Litz line is a double-stranded Litz line.

9. The power transmitter as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The first layer comprises a first number of turns in the range of about 4 to about 5 turns, and wherein the second layer comprises a second number of turns in the range of about 4 to about 5 turns.

10. The power transmitter as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The Litz wire has a diameter ranging from about 1 mm to about 1.5 mm and comprises multiple strands, the number of strands ranging from about 80 to about 120.

11. The power transmitter as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, Each of the multiple strands has a diameter ranging from about 0.05 mm to about 0.1 mm.

12. A base station for a wireless power delivery system operating at frequencies selected from about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz, the base station system comprising a power transmitter and including: Interface surface; The control and communication unit is configured as follows: A power control signal is provided to an external power source to control the power level of an AC power signal configured for transmission to a power receiver, the AC power signal having an initial RMS voltage. The power source is configured to configure DC power based on the power control signal and includes a voltage regulator and a power controller. The power controller is configured to receive the power control signal, generate a voltage regulation command based on the power control signal for changing the DC voltage of the DC power, and provide the voltage regulation command to the voltage regulator to control the DC voltage of the DC power. The voltage regulation command includes a voltage boost command or a voltage buck command for the voltage regulator, the voltage boost command and the voltage buck command having a step level, the step level being a voltage change by which the voltage regulator is configured to increase or decrease the DC voltage of the DC power for the purpose of configuring the initial RMS voltage of the AC power signal. A pulse width modulation signal is generated, the pulse width modulation signal being used to configure an AC frequency for the AC power signal at the operating frequency, the pulse width modulation signal being modified by a duty cycle change, the duty cycle change being configured to reduce the initial root mean square voltage of the AC power signal to an offset root mean square voltage, the offset root mean square voltage being less than the initial root mean square voltage. An inverter circuit configured to receive the DC power from a power source external to the power transmitter and convert the DC power into the AC power signal based on the pulse width modulation signal; A coil configured to transmit the AC power signal to the power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and comprising at least one layer. The base station further includes a shield comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity, the cavity being configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

13. The base station as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The interface surface is separated from the coil by an interface gap distance ranging from about 8 mm to about 10 mm.

14. The base station as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The interface surface extends substantially across the entire top surface of the coil.

15. The base station as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The shield is an E-core shield, and the cavity is configured in an E-shape.

16. The base station as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The control and communication unit is further configured to Receive a power request signal from the power receiver, and The power control signal is determined based on the power request signal.

17. The base station as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The power supply is configured to: Configure the input DC power based on the power control signal to generate the supplied DC power, and The DC power is supplied to the inverter circuit.

18. The base station as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The step level is in the range of approximately 10 millivolts (mV) to approximately 500 mV.

19. The base station as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The step level is approximately 200mV.

20. A system for wireless power transfer at operating frequencies selected in the range of about 87 kHz to about 205 kHz, the system comprising: External power supply for the power transmitter; and The power transmitter includes: The control and communication unit is configured to: A power control signal is provided for controlling the power level of an AC power signal configured for transmission to a power receiver, the AC power signal having an initial root mean square voltage, and A pulse width modulation (PWM) signal is generated, which is used to configure an AC frequency for the AC power signal at the operating frequency. The PWM signal is modified by a duty cycle change configured to reduce the initial RMS voltage of the AC power signal to an offset RMS voltage, which is less than the initial RMS voltage. An inverter circuit configured to receive DC power from a power source external to the power transmitter and convert the DC power into an AC power signal based on the pulse width modulation signal, and a coil configured to transmit the AC power signal to the power receiver, the coil being formed of wound Litz wire and comprising at least one layer. The power transmitter further includes a shield comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity, the cavity being configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds the entire coil except for the top surface of the coil.

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