Enhanced wireless power transfer

Abstract

Wireless power transmission devices can be configured to negotiate with each other to operate. For example, wireless power standards can provide various levels of power delivery, various frequencies for power transmission, various operating voltages, etc. There can be instances where it is desirable to provide wireless power transmission devices (both PTx and PRx) that can enhance performance when paired with compatible devices. For example, devices can be configured to operate at higher or larger granularity power levels, different frequencies, etc.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Wireless power transfer (“WPT”), sometimes also referred to as inductive power transfer (“IPT”), has recently become more prevalent in many applications. One of the applications where the use of WPT / IPT has increased is in the consumer electronics space surrounding devices such as mobile phones (i.e., smartphones) and their accessories (e.g., wireless headsets, smartwatches, etc.) as well as tablets and other types of portable computers and their accessories (e.g., styluses, etc.). Summary of the Invention

[0002] In some implementations, the wireless power receiver is able to negotiate with the power transmitter in a standard-compliant manner, thereby operating in a manner that exceeds the standard range.

[0003] A wireless power receiver may include: a receiver coil configured to receive power from a wireless power transmitter; a rectifier coupled to the receiver coil and configured to convert an AC voltage appearing across the receiver coil into a DC voltage delivered to a load; and a control and communication module coupled to the receiver coil and the rectifier. The controller and communication module may be further configured to receive in-band communication signals from the wireless power transmitter via the receiver coil; and to operate the rectifier to generate in-band communication signals delivered to the power transmitter via the receiver coil. The in-band communication signals may include communication conforming to a standard communication protocol that negotiates a transition to an enhanced or extended operating mode. The enhanced or extended operating mode may include operation at one or more frequencies and power levels different from those specified by the standard communication protocol.

[0004] The wireless power receiver may also include an NFC communication module coupled to the control and communication module. In this case, the enhanced or extended operating mode includes delaying wireless power transmission to allow NFC communication with a corresponding NFC communication module in the wireless power transmitter. The communication, compliant with a standard communication protocol, negotiating a transition to the enhanced or extended operating mode may include communication indicating one or more enhanced capabilities of the receiver. The communication, compliant with a standard communication protocol, negotiating a transition to the enhanced or extended operating mode may also include communication requesting one or more enhanced capabilities of the transmitter. The communication, compliant with a standard communication protocol, negotiating a transition to the enhanced or extended operating mode may further include communication confirming one or more enhanced capabilities of the transmitter. The communication, compliant with a standard communication protocol, negotiating a transition to the enhanced or extended operating mode may also include communication related to the user interface capabilities of at least one of the transmitter and the receiver.

[0005] A wireless power transmitter may include: a transmitter coil configured to deliver power to a wireless power receiver; an inverter coupled to the transmitter coil and configured to convert an input voltage into an AC voltage delivered to the transmitter coil; and a control and communication module coupled to the transmitter coil and the inverter. The control and communication module may be further configured to receive in-band communication signals from the wireless power receiver via the transmitter coil; and to operate the inverter to generate in-band communication signals delivered to the power receiver via the transmitter coil. The in-band communication signals may include communication conforming to a standard communication protocol that negotiates a transition to an enhanced or extended operating mode. The enhanced or extended operating mode may include operation at a frequency or power level different from that specified by the standard communication protocol.

[0006] The wireless power transmitter may also include an NFC communication module coupled to the control and communication module. In this case, the enhanced or extended operating mode includes delaying wireless power transmission to allow NFC communication with a corresponding NFC communication module in the wireless power receiver. The communication, conforming to a standard communication protocol, negotiating a transition to the enhanced or extended operating mode may include communication indicating one or more enhanced capabilities of the transmitter. The communication, conforming to a standard communication protocol, negotiating a transition to the enhanced or extended operating mode may also include communication requesting one or more enhanced capabilities of the receiver. The communication, conforming to a standard communication protocol, negotiating a transition to the enhanced or extended operating mode may further include communication confirming one or more enhanced capabilities of the receiver. The communication, conforming to a standard communication protocol, negotiating a transition to the enhanced or extended operating mode may also include communication related to the user interface capabilities of at least one of the transmitter and the receiver.

[0007] A method for negotiating wireless power transfer between a wireless power transmitter or receiver and a paired device may include: initiating communication with the paired device using a standard communication protocol; transmitting one or more enhanced capabilities of the device to the paired device using the standard communication protocol; and determining whether the paired device is also capable of operating according to each of the one or more enhanced capabilities. If the paired device is unable to operate according to one or more of the enhanced capabilities, the method may further include operating in a standard mode. Alternatively, if the paired device is capable of operating according to one or more of the enhanced capabilities, the method may further include negotiating a transition to an agreed enhanced mode that includes one or more of the enhanced capabilities. The communication between the device and its paired device may be in-band or out-of-band communication. The enhanced capability may include the ability to operate at a frequency or power level different from the frequency or power level specified by the standard communication protocol. The enhanced capability may include NFC communication capability, and the enhanced mode includes delaying wireless power transfer to allow NFC communication. The enhancement capability may also include the user interface capability of the transmitter or receiver device, in which case the agreement enhancement mode may include an agreement between the device and its paired device regarding which device will provide the user with information about the status of the wireless power transmission. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 A wireless power transmission system is shown.

[0009] Figures 2A to 2E The wireless power transfer negotiation operating in the enhanced / extended wireless power transfer mode is shown.

[0010] Figure 3 A flowchart is shown for receiver-side negotiation for enhancing / extending wireless power transmission modes.

[0011] Figure 4 A flowchart is shown for transmitter-side negotiation for enhancing / extending wireless power transmission modes.

[0012] Figure 5 A flowchart of the NFC scanning process associated with the enhanced / extended wireless power transfer mode is shown.

[0013] Figure 6 A high-level flowchart of power transmission negotiation operating in enhanced / extended wireless power transmission mode is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0014] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth for purposes of explanation in order to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed concepts. As part of this description, for simplicity, some of the accompanying drawings of this disclosure are shown as block diagrams of structures and devices. For clarity, not all features of actual specific embodiments are described in this disclosure. Furthermore, the language used in this disclosure has been chosen for readability and guidance purposes and has not been selected to depict or limit the subject matter disclosed. Rather, the appended claims are intended for this purpose.

[0015] Various embodiments of the disclosed concepts are illustrated by way of example, and are not limited to the individual figures, in which similar reference numerals indicate similar elements. For simplicity and clarity, reference numerals are repeated in different figures where appropriate to indicate corresponding or similar elements. Furthermore, numerous specific details are shown to provide a full understanding of the specific embodiments described herein. In other instances, methods, procedures, and components are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the related functions described. References to “an,” “a,” or “another” embodiments in this disclosure do not necessarily refer to the same or different embodiments, and imply at least one. The given figures may be used to illustrate more than one embodiment or more types of features of this disclosure, and not all elements in the figures may be necessary for a given embodiment or type. When provided in a given set of figures, reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout the figures, but may not be repeated in every figure. Unless otherwise specified, the figures are not drawn to scale, and the scale of certain components may be enlarged to better illustrate the details and features of this disclosure.

[0016] Figure 1 A simplified block diagram of a wireless power transmission system 100 is shown. The wireless power transmission system includes a power transmitter (PTx) 110 that wirelessly transmits power to a power receiver (PRx) 120 via an inductive coupling 130. The power transmitter 110 can receive input power converted by an inverter 114 into an AC voltage with specific voltage and frequency characteristics. The inverter 114 can be controlled by a controller / communication module 116, which operates as further described below. In various embodiments, the inverter controller and communication module can be implemented in a common system (such as a microprocessor-based, microcontroller-based system). In other embodiments, the inverter controller can be implemented by a separate controller module and communication module having communication means therebetween. The inverter 114 can be constructed using any suitable circuit topology (e.g., full-bridge, half-bridge, etc.) and can be implemented using any suitable semiconductor switching device technology (e.g., MOSFETs, IGBTs, etc., made using silicon, silicon carbide, or gallium nitride devices).

[0017] Inverter 114 delivers the generated AC voltage to transmitter coil 112. In addition to allowing magnetic coupling to the receiver's wireless coil, Figure 1 The transmitter coil block 112 shown may include tuning circuitry (such as additional inductors and capacitors) that facilitates transmitter operation under various conditions, such as different degrees of magnetic coupling to the receiver, different operating frequencies, etc. The wireless coil itself can be constructed in a variety of different ways. In some embodiments, the wireless coil may be formed as a wire winding around a suitable spool. In other embodiments, the wireless coil may be formed as a trace on a printed circuit board. Other arrangements are also possible and can be used in conjunction with the various embodiments described herein. The wireless transmitter coil may also include a magnetically permeable material (e.g., ferrite) core configured to influence the flux pattern of the coil in a manner suitable for a particular application. The teachings herein can be applied in conjunction with any of the various transmitter coil arrangements suitable for a given application.

[0018] The PTx controller / communication module 116 can monitor the transmitter coil and use information derived therefrom to control the inverter 114 to suit a given situation. For example, the controller / communication module can be configured to cause the inverter 114 to operate at a given frequency or output voltage depending on the specific application. In some embodiments, the controller / communication module can be configured to receive information from the PRx device and control the inverter 114 accordingly. This information can be received via the power delivery coil (i.e., in-band communication) or via a separate communication channel (not shown, i.e., out-of-band communication). For in-band communication, the controller / communication module 116 can detect and decode signals (such as voltage, frequency, or load changes) applied to the magnetic link by the PRx to receive information and can instruct the inverter to modulate the delivered power to send information to the PRx by manipulating various parameters (such as voltage, frequency, phase, etc.). In some embodiments, the controller / communication module can be configured to use frequency shift keying (FSK) communication to transmit data to the PRx, in which the frequency of the inverter signal is modulated. The controller / communication module 116 can be configured to detect amplitude shift keying (ASK) communication or load-modulated communication from the PRx. In either case, the controller / communication module 126 can be configured to change the current drawn on the receiver side to manipulate the waveform seen on the Tx coil, thereby delivering information from the PRx to the PTx. For out-of-band communication, additional modules, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, or other radio links, or any other suitable communication channel, can be provided to allow communication between the PTx and PRx.

[0019] As described above, the controller / communication module 116 can be, for example, a single module disposed on a single integrated circuit, or it can be constructed from multiple modules / devices disposed on different integrated circuits, or a combination of integrated circuits and discrete circuits having analog and digital components. The teachings herein are not limited to any particular arrangement of the controller / communication circuitry.

[0020] The PTx device 110 may optionally include other systems and components, such as a near-field communication (“NFC”) module 118. In some embodiments, the NFC module 118 may communicate with a corresponding module or radio frequency identification (RFID) tag in the PRx via a power transmission coil. In other embodiments, the NFC module 118 may communicate with the corresponding module or tag using a separate physical channel 138. In some embodiments, as described in more detail below, it may be necessary to pause inductive power transmission to prevent interference with NFC communication.

[0021] As mentioned above, the wireless power transmission system also includes a wireless power receiver (PRx) 120. The wireless power receiver may include a receiver coil 122 that can be magnetically coupled 130 to the transmitter coil 112. As discussed above, the transmitter coil 112... Figure 1 The receiver coil block 122 shown may include tuning circuitry (such as additional inductors and capacitors) that facilitates transmitter operation under various conditions, such as different degrees of magnetic coupling to the receiver, different operating frequencies, etc. The wireless coil itself can be constructed in a variety of different ways. In some embodiments, the wireless coil may be formed as a wire winding around a suitable spool. In other embodiments, the wireless coil may be formed as a trace on a printed circuit board. Other arrangements are also possible and can be used in conjunction with the various embodiments described herein. The wireless receiver coil may also include a magnetically permeable material (e.g., ferrite) core configured to influence the flux pattern of the coil in a manner suitable for a particular application. The teachings herein can be applied in conjunction with any of the various receiver coil arrangements suitable for a given application.

[0022] Receiver coil 122 outputs an AC voltage induced therein via transmitter coil 112 through magnetic induction. This output AC voltage can be provided to rectifier 124, which provides DC output power to one or more loads associated with the PRx device. Rectifier 124 can be controlled by controller / communication module 126, which operates as further described below. In various embodiments, the rectifier controller and communication module can be implemented in a common system (such as a microprocessor-based, microcontroller-based system). In other embodiments, the rectifier controller can be implemented by a separate controller module and communication module having communication means therebetween. Rectifier 124 can be constructed using any suitable circuit topology (e.g., full-bridge, half-bridge, etc.) and can be implemented using any suitable semiconductor switching device technology (e.g., MOSFETs, IGBTs, etc., made using silicon, silicon carbide, or gallium nitride devices).

[0023] The PRx controller / communication module 126 can monitor the receiver coil and use the information derived therefrom to control the rectifier 124 to suit a given situation. For example, the controller / communication module can be configured to cause the rectifier 124 to provide a given output voltage depending on a specific application. In some embodiments, the controller / communication module can be configured to send information to the PTx device to effectively control the power delivered to the receiver. This information can be sent via the power delivery coil (i.e., in-band communication) or via a separate communication channel (not shown, i.e., out-of-band communication). For in-band communication, the controller / communication module 126 can, for example, modulate the load current or other electrical parameters of the received power to send information to the PTx. In some embodiments, the controller / communication module 126 can be configured to detect and decode signals (such as voltage, frequency, or load changes) applied to the magnetic link by the PTx to receive information from the PTx. In some embodiments, the controller / communication module 126 can be configured to receive frequency shift keying (FSK) communication to transmit data to the PRx, in which the frequency of the inverter signal has been modulated. The controller / communication module 126 can be configured to generate amplitude shift keying (ASK) communication or load modulation-based communication from the PRx. In either case, the controller / communication module 126 can be configured to change the current drawn on the receiver side to manipulate the waveform seen on the Tx coil, thereby delivering information from the PRx to the PTx. For out-of-band communication, additional modules, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, or other radio links, or any other suitable communication channel, can be provided to allow communication between the PTx and PRx.

[0024] As described above, the controller / communication module 126 can be, for example, a single module disposed on a single integrated circuit, or it can be constructed from multiple modules / devices disposed on different integrated circuits, or a combination of integrated circuits and discrete circuits having analog and digital components. The teachings herein are not limited to any particular arrangement of the controller / communication circuitry.

[0025] The PRx device 120 may optionally include other systems and components, such as a near-field communication (“NFC”) module 128. In some embodiments, the NFC module 128 may communicate with a corresponding module or radio frequency identification (RFID) tag in the PTx via a power transmission coil. In other embodiments, the NFC module 128 may communicate with the corresponding module or tag using a separate physical channel 138. In some embodiments, as described in more detail below, it may be necessary to pause inductive power transmission to prevent interference with NFC communication.

[0026] Many variations and enhancements to the wireless power transmission system 100 described above are possible, and the following teachings apply to any of such variations and enhancements.

[0027] As described above, the PRx controller / communication module 126 and the PTx controller / communication module 126 can communicate with each other to identify themselves and negotiate power delivery between them. This identification and negotiation process can be performed in conjunction with standard-defined protocols, such as those defined by the Wireless Power Union Qi standard, enabling interoperability between devices from different manufacturers. Compliance with such standards provides the benefit of interoperability at the potential cost of specialization. In other embodiments, the identification and negotiation process can be performed in conjunction with proprietary protocols determined by the device manufacturer, which provides the benefit of improved flexibility and potential scalability, but the disadvantage is the loss of interoperability with devices that do not implement proprietary protocols.

[0028] To address this challenge, the controller / communication module can be configured to initiate a negotiation process according to a standard-defined protocol. During this negotiation, one device, another device, or both devices can identify themselves in a standard-compliant manner as supporting a set of enhanced capabilities beyond the standard's scope. If both devices are capable of operating according to that enhanced capability set, the device may choose to operate according to that enhanced capability set. Otherwise, the device may choose to operate in combination with a standard-based capability set. In one implementation, the enhanced capability set may include capabilities to operate at different frequencies, at different power levels, or in other ways beyond those defined in existing standards.

[0029] Figure 2AFigures 2H illustrate an exemplary communication exchange between a wireless power receiver (PRx) 120 and a wireless power transmitter (PTx) 110 for migrating from a first communication protocol architecture to a second architecture, which includes one or more enhancements specific to that second architecture. In some examples, the first protocol architecture is a standards-based architecture, such as Qi. The enhancements in the second architecture can be extended or enhanced versions of the standard (such as later versions or alternative versions) or can be completely separate and proprietary systems. The various communication packets described can take any of a variety of forms, thus employing different packet structures, different modulation schemes for transmitting packets, etc. The following description illustrates the components of the communication packets at a high level, but it will be understood that any particular protocol implementation may specify different or additional data that may be included in these packets as appropriate.

[0030] refer to Figure 2A The exemplary negotiation process begins with PRx 120 sending a sequence of messages 202-208 to power transmitter 110. This exchange can be triggered by PRx detecting its proximity to PTx, as is typically implemented in wireless power transmission systems. The exchange can be performed using in-band communication at a frequency specified by the standard. In some embodiments, this frequency may be between approximately 100 kHz and approximately 250 kHz. In some embodiments, the frequency may be 128 kHz. In the illustrated example, the four messages 202-208 correspond to messages sent according to the Qi standard; however, in some embodiments, there may be more or fewer messages, and they may conform to alternative standards or protocols.

[0031] The first message 202 can be a SIG packet, i.e., a signal strength packet according to the Qi standard. The second message 204 can be an ID packet, i.e., an identification packet according to the Qi standard. The third message 206 can be an XID, i.e., an extended identification packet according to the Qi standard. The fourth message 208 can be a CFG packet, i.e., a configuration packet according to the Qi standard. In some implementations, these four packets may correspond to the "verification" and "configuration phases" according to the Qi standard. The details of these packets (including the information contained therein and the effects of such packets in the system) are described in detail in the Qi standard versions to which they belong, and therefore will not be repeated here. It should be understood that different versions of such packets may be incorporated into various versions of the Qi standard, and later versions may combine, eliminate, or otherwise modify such packets. Therefore, the packets shown here are only examples of standard-compliant initialization, and other similar arrangements may also be used.

[0032] In the aforementioned communications, the XID packet is of interest. In the Qi standard, this optional packet can be used to provide additional information exchange between the PRx and PTx. This additional information exchange may include identification of enhanced capabilities, such as the ability to perform based on extensions or enhancements to standard or other superstandard (i.e., beyond the scope of the standard) operating modes. These performance modes not specified in the standard described herein are referred to as superstandards (“XS”). Therefore, upon receiving communication from the PRx indicating its ability to perform based on extensions or enhancements to the standard, the PTx may send a response packet 210, which is an XS ACK, acknowledging the PRx's superstandard capabilities.

[0033] Now go to Figure 2B This illustrates further communication between the PRx and PTx. Upon receiving confirmation of the PRx's enhanced (XS) capabilities from the PTx, the PRx may send another packet 212 requesting the PTx to provide its enhanced capabilities (if any). This may take the form of a "GET" request, in which the PRx requests the PTx to send its enhanced capabilities (if any) in the form of an XS XID packet (i.e., a packet that goes beyond the basic standard and provides information on which additional capabilities beyond the standard that the PTx can provide). This packet may provide indications of various characteristics beyond the range of the basic standard that the PTx can provide, such as different power transmission parameters (voltage, power level, operating frequency, etc.) and one or more PTx-related parameters necessary for operation in enhanced (XS) mode.

[0034] As an example, a PTx can indicate its ability to operate at frequencies beyond those defined in the basic standard. In some cases, a PRx can be configured to preferentially operate at such a different frequency (if available), for example, to avoid potential interference with other devices or systems. Therefore, a PRx can initiate a series of communications to switch from an operating frequency conforming to the current standard to a different, non-standard frequency. As part of this communication process, the PRx may also attempt to exchange other information about power transmission, including user interface (UI-related information) and information related to other device systems (such as the NFC system mentioned above). For this purpose, Figure 2B The communication shown can continue with PRx requesting UI-related parameters (message 216) and PTx reporting the requested UI-related parameters (message 218).

[0035] As an example, it might be desirable to provide users with feedback indicating the status or condition of the wireless power transmission system. For instance, providing visual indicators (such as LEDs or colored LEDs) or audio notifications (such as beeps or chimes) of successful or unsuccessful power transmission arrangements could be useful. Depending on the specific device used, a PTx or PRx may or may not have certain available UI types. For example, a charging pad might have a status LED but not a speaker that allows it to reproduce a chime. Other devices, such as smartphones, may be able to provide both audio and visual indicators. Similarly, other devices (such as charging cases) may have limited UI capabilities. Therefore, in order to provide the user with the desired level of feedback, devices may need to negotiate among themselves to determine which device has the capability to provide the expected feedback to the user.

[0036] In the illustrated implementation, PRx determines which device will provide the required user feedback. Now turn to... Figure 2C The PRx can transmit its determination regarding how to handle various user interface issues, based on its own capabilities and capability notifications received from the PTx in its XID packets. This can be transmitted to the PRx via SRQ UI (Special Request-User Interface) packet 220. The PTx can acknowledge this request / instruction (ACK packet 222), and both devices can proceed accordingly. Similarly, the PRx can indicate the desired operating frequency via SRQ frequency packet 224 (Special Request-Frequency). The PTx can acknowledge this request / instruction (ACK packet 224), and both devices can proceed accordingly to operate at different frequencies, as described in more detail below. Additionally, the PRx can use SRQ NFC (Special Request-NFC) packet 228 to request certain NFC parameters. These may include, for example, a delay between activating the current power and communication exchange at the default / standard frequency and reactivating the power and communication exchange at an optional frequency requested in packet 224, allowing NFC scanning to occur, as described in more detail below. The PTx can acknowledge this request / instruction (ACK packet 230), and both devices can proceed accordingly. Finally, the PRX can provide additional special requests accompanying the enhanced / extended protocol or indicate the end of the special request via SRQ End (Special Request-End) packet 232. The PRX can acknowledge the request / instruction (ACK packet 234), and both devices can proceed accordingly, for example, by switching to a new frequency, providing the desired UI interaction, and allowing NFC operation as agreed in the aforementioned exchange.

[0037] Now go to Figure 2DPRx may send an EPT (End of Power Transfer) packet 236 according to the original standard (e.g., the Qi standard). It should be understood that this packet may vary depending on the specific standard and version used; however, the point of this instruction (and the end of the current power / data exchange system) is the transition from operation according to the original power transfer standard (e.g., at a standard-defined frequency) to power transfer according to an enhanced / extended standard as negotiated in a previous exchange (e.g., at a different frequency than the original standard but according to the enhanced standard). Therefore, power transfer is disabled (238), which also allows time for NFC scanning, if negotiated (240). It should be noted that, more generally, other types of out-of-band communication, such as Bluetooth and RFID communication, may be utilized. Further details of this out-of-band communication (NFC scanning in this example) are discussed below.

[0038] After disabling power transfer 238 and optional NFC scan 240 (or other activities occurring during the negotiated delay), power transfer can be re-initiated in enhanced mode (e.g., at a different frequency), beginning with message exchange 242-248. In some embodiments, this re-initiation in enhanced mode responds to successful communication between the PTx and PRx during an optional out-of-band communication period (e.g., NFC scan 240). In the illustrated embodiment, this begins with the PRX sending a series of messages conforming to the extended or enhanced standard (“XS”), which would otherwise correspond to the basic mode corresponding to the initially performed conformance initiation or “verification”. As previously mentioned, the exchange can be performed using in-band communication at the frequency specified by the extended or enhanced standard. In some embodiments, this frequency may be between approximately 360 kHz, but other frequencies may be used.

[0039] In the example exchange shown, the first message 242 may be an XS:SIG packet, i.e., a signal strength packet according to the extended standard. The second message 244 may be an XS:ID packet, i.e., an identification packet according to the extended standard. The third message 246 may be an XS:XID packet, i.e., an extended identification packet according to the extended standard. The fourth message 248 may be an XS:CFG packet, i.e., a configuration packet according to the extended standard. In some embodiments, these four packets may correspond to the "verification" and "configuration phases" that are typically parallel to the Qi standard. In other embodiments, the exchange may include more or fewer messages and may be entirely unique or may generally run in parallel with other standards-based communication protocols. Therefore, the packets shown herein are provided only as examples of verification or initialization procedures, and other similar arrangements may also be used. In some embodiments, this verification or initialization procedure may be used to verify parameters negotiated in the previously specific request exchange described above.

[0040] Now go to Figure 2EEstablishing power transmission according to enhanced standards (e.g., at different frequencies) may require further information exchange between the receiver and transmitter. Therefore, the PRx can request the PTx's extended identification information using message / packet 252XS:GET PTx XID (i.e., Extended Standard, Get Power Transmitter Extended Identification Information). In response, the PTx can provide the requested information via message / packet 254PTx XID. The PRx can also provide an indication of its own capabilities to the PTX using message 256XS:SEND PRx Cap (Extended Standard, Send Power Receiver Capability). This transmission can be acknowledged by the PTx via acknowledgment 258. Finally, further exchanges may occur, where the PRx sends one or more configuration packets, shown here by packet 260XS:SEND CFGn (Extended Standard, Send Configuration n), where n is any number of packets required to exchange the necessary information. Each of these messages can be acknowledged by acknowledgment message / packet 262. After the culmination of the configuration exchange, power transmission according to the enhanced standards can begin 264.

[0041] The aforementioned message / packet exchange is exemplary. Extended Standard (XS) communication may include the need for more, fewer, or different message exchanges to establish power transmission according to various extensions of the underlying standard. Additionally, each message or packet may include various combinations of information necessary for power contract negotiation between the receiver and transmitter. Furthermore, although the illustrated process is shown to be receiver-driven, in some embodiments, the transmitter (PTx) may determine various configuration parameters rather than relying on the receiver (PRx) to do so. Therefore, the foregoing description should be considered merely as an example of how to facilitate the transition from standards-compliant wireless transmission modes to wireless transmission modes based on extensions or enhancements to that standard.

[0042] Figure 3 A simplified decision tree / flowchart 300 is shown, describing the transition of the receiver side (PRx) from a standard-compliant wireless power transmission mode to an extended or enhanced wireless power transmission mode according to this standard (e.g., at a frequency not specified in the basic standard). The process begins at "verification phase 302," where PRx and PRx initiate communication. This verification phase may, for example, correspond to the above-described... Figure 2AThe message exchange depicted generally corresponds to the verification phase defined by the Qi standard, or may be any other suitable standards-based exchange. From this point, the process proceeds to box 304, where the receiver again reports its identification and extended identification information in a manner conforming to the basic standard. As outlined above, the extended identification information packets specified by the standard allow for the transmission of capabilities beyond the standard's scope. In box 308, the PRx may report / acknowledge receipt of configuration packets received from the PTx. In box 310, the PRx may determine whether the PTx is capable of operating with one or more enhancements or extensions desired by the PRx. If not, the process may proceed to box 312, where basic mode power transmission in conjunction with the standard is provided. Otherwise, if the PTx provides confirmation of the extended / enhanced capabilities requested by the PRx, the system may transition to negotiating extended mode power transmission as described above 314, followed by transition to enhanced / extended mode in box 316.

[0043] Figure 4 A simplified decision tree / flowchart 400 is shown, describing the transition on the transmitter side (PTx) from a standard-compliant wireless power transmission mode to an extended or enhanced wireless power transmission mode according to this standard (e.g., at a frequency not specified in the basic standard). The process begins with device detection 402, which can be provided by any number of sensors designed to detect that the PRx device has been brought into the PTx's range. This leads to a digital verification phase 404 (corresponding to the Rx-side digital verification phase 302), as discussed in more detail above. Then, in box 406, the PTx receives ID packets (406) and XID packets (408) (if expected based on the content of the ID packets). As mentioned above, all of these communications can conform to industry standards. In box 410, the PTx can determine whether an XID packet has been received. If not, it can proceed to power transmission in basic mode (or shutdown, as appropriate) (box 412). Alternatively, if an XID packet is received, the PTx can analyze the packet's content to determine whether the PRx is capable of operating in enhanced / extended mode. If not, the PTx may transition to basic mode or disable power delivery (box 412). If yes, the PTx may determine whether the PRx has requested basic mode (the standards-compliant mode) (box 416). If yes, it may enter this mode. Alternatively, the PTx may receive the configuration phase packets sent by the PRx in box 306 (boxes 418 / 420). These packets may be acknowledged by the PTx (box 422), and the PTx may then determine (box 422) whether to restart and enter the verification phase or proceed to the extended / enhanced negotiation phase (box 426), which corresponds to the receiver-side negotiation phase in box 314.

[0044] Return to temporarily Figure 2DAnd as discussed above, after the negotiation phase in which the PRx and PTx agree to transition to an extended / enhanced version of the power transfer mode that conforms to a different standard than the basic standard (e.g., operating at a frequency different from that defined by the basic standard), the initially established standard power transfer can be disabled before reactivation in the extended / enhanced mode (box 238). In some implementations, the exchange between PRx and PTx may include a delay before reactivation to allow time for NFC communication between PRx and PTx (e.g., as specified in SRQ NFC box 228 discussed above). This delay can be provided because power transfers can interfere with the NFC process (since they can use similar frequencies). Additionally, in some cases, the high power levels associated with wireless power transfers can cause damage to NFC devices. Therefore, during the negotiation process described above, PRx and PTx may negotiate a time for allowing NFC scanning.

[0045] NFC communication can be used for any of a variety of purposes. For example, in some implementations, NFC communication can be used to provide PRx capabilities, attributes, or parameters to the PTx and vice versa. These can be used to verify information provided in the various communications and negotiations described above. In other cases, NFC communication can be used to provide information exchange that would otherwise be impossible or infeasible using the technologies described above. In some implementations, NFC communication can be used to read one or more NFC devices provided in the PRx or PTx. These NFC tags can be used to perform additional functions, including but not limited to authentication, providing software / firmware updates delivered from the PRx to the PTx or from the PTx to the PRx, verifying power parameters negotiated in previous phases, etc.

[0046] Figure 5 A high-level flowchart 500 of the NFC scanning process is shown. Beginning at box 502, the device may perform its initial negotiation as described above, followed by a power transfer delay (504) and NFS scan (506) as described above. The time period of the delay can be negotiated to take into account the NFC function to be performed. For example, a relatively short task (such as authentication or confirmation of negotiated power transfer parameters) may take a relatively short time period. Alternatively, a process such as a firmware update may take a longer time period. The negotiated power transfer delay time can take these differences into account. Furthermore, if the device initially specifies a particular power transfer delay time period for the NFC scan, but discovers more devices that need to be read during subsequent NFC scans, it can negotiate a subsequent longer power transfer delay time period to allow sufficient time to scan all tags. For example, in box 508, it can be determined whether all NFC devices have been read. If so, power transfer can be enabled or re-enabled in box 510 (depending on the enhanced / extended power transfer mode). Otherwise, the device can negotiate a longer power transfer delay (box 512) to allow for further NFC scans.

[0047] In addition to the aforementioned situations, there may be other circumstances where simplification of the negotiation process is desired. As an example, a PRx device may have a depleted battery, making it difficult or impossible to participate in a lengthy electricity contract negotiation process. In this case, the PRx device may be able to [perform certain actions] relative to [the aforementioned...]. Figure 2A The preferred frequency is indicated in the described XID packet (element 206). Recall that, as mentioned above, the XID packet is used to inform the PTx that the device is capable of various enhanced superstandard power transmission modes. Instead, in this particular example, the PRx simply provides preferred / desired power parameters (such as operating frequency), and the PTx device will fulfill those parameters if possible.

[0048] Figure 6 A high-level flowchart of a power negotiation process 600 for maintaining a compliant extended or enhanced charging mode is shown. The process can take place on either of the two devices described more specifically above. The process may begin by initiating a standards-based negotiation in block 602. This negotiation may use standards-compliant mechanisms to ensure interoperability with devices that do not support the desired enhanced or extended capabilities. In some embodiments, these standards-compliant mechanisms may be provided by the Radio Power Union Qi standard or any other suitable wireless power transmission standard. However, in block 604, standards-compliant mechanisms may be used to signal enhanced capabilities. In some embodiments, this may include “XID” (Extended Identifier) ​​packets provided in the Qi standard and may optionally include additional mechanisms for exchanging necessary information. In other embodiments, other standards-compliant mechanisms may be suitably used for different versions of the standard, or entirely different standards. In block 606, the devices may determine whether both devices are capable of operating in a compliant enhanced or extended mode or capability. If not, the devices may continue operating in a standards-compliant mode, in which case wireless power transmission may be performed according to the relevant standard (block 608).

[0049] Otherwise, if it is determined in box 606 that the device is capable of operating in an extended / enhanced mode beyond the mode specified in the standard, the device may negotiate a transition to the desired extended / enhanced mode (box 610). These extended or enhanced modes may provide power delivery in ways that do not conform to the basic standard, including, for example, operation at different frequencies, different voltages, different power levels, etc. Once an enhanced or extended mode is agreed upon, the device may transition to and operate in that agreed enhanced or extended mode (box 612).

[0050] Exemplary embodiments of a wireless power transfer system have been described above, which is capable of negotiating enhanced / extended operating modes while remaining compliant with wireless power transfer standards that do not support such enhanced / extended operating modes. Such systems can be used in a variety of applications, but are particularly advantageous when used in conjunction with personal electronic devices such as mobile computing devices (e.g., laptops, tablets, smartphones, etc.) and their accessories (e.g., wireless headsets, styluses, and other input devices, etc.) and wireless charging accessories (e.g., charging pads, stands, etc.). Although many specific features and various embodiments have been described, it should be understood that various features and embodiments can be combined in various arrangements in a particular specific implementation unless otherwise indicated as mutually exclusive. Therefore, the various embodiments described above are provided by way of example only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. Various modifications and changes can be made to the principles and embodiments herein without departing from the scope of this disclosure and the scope of the claims.

[0051] The foregoing has described exemplary embodiments of a wireless power transmission system capable of transmitting certain information between PTx and PRx within a system. This disclosure contemplates that this information transmission improves the ability of devices to provide wireless power signals to each other in an efficient and non-destructive manner to facilitate battery charging. It is anticipated that some implementers of this technology may consider the transmission of identifiers (such as serial numbers, UIDs, manufacturer IDs, MAC addresses, etc.) to aid in the identification of PTx and PRx (particularly their wireless capabilities) relative to each other.

[0052] Entities implementing this technology should ensure that the extent to which any sensitive information is used in a particular implementation complies with well-established privacy policies and / or privacy practices. Specifically, such entities will be expected to implement and consistently apply privacy practices generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for protecting user privacy. Implementers should notify users when personally identifiable information is anticipated to be transmitted in the wireless power transmission system and allow users to opt in or out of participation. For example, this information may be presented to the user when they place the device on the power transmitter.

[0053] The purpose of this disclosure is to manage and process personal information data (if any) to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. This risk can be minimized by limiting data collection and deleting data once it is no longer needed. Furthermore, and where applicable, data deidentification can be used to protect user privacy. For example, device identifiers can be partially masked to convey the power characteristics of a device rather than uniquely identifying it. Deidentification can be facilitated, where appropriate, by removing identifiers, controlling the amount or specificity of stored data (e.g., collecting location data at the city level rather than the address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data among users), and / or other methods such as differentiated privacy. Robust encryption can also be used to reduce the possibility of spoofing communications between inductively coupled devices.

Claims

1. A wireless power receiver, comprising: A receiver coil configured to receive power from a wireless power transmitter; A rectifier coupled to the receiver coil and configured to convert an AC voltage appearing across the receiver coil into a DC voltage delivered to the load; and A control and communication module, coupled to the receiver coil and the rectifier, wherein the control and communication module is configured to: Receive in-band communication signals from the wireless power transmitter via the receiver coil; as well as The rectifier is operated to generate an in-band communication signal delivered to the power transmitter via the receiver coil; The in-band communication signal delivered to the power transmitter via the receiver coil includes communication conforming to a standard communication protocol, which negotiates a transition to an enhanced or extended operating mode, including instructions from the receiver to perform wireless power transmission at a frequency different from the wireless power transmission frequency specified by the standard communication protocol.

2. The wireless power receiver of claim 1, wherein the enhanced or extended operating mode includes operating at one or more of a frequency and power level different from the frequency or power level specified by the standard communication protocol.

3. The wireless power receiver of claim 1 further includes an NFC communication module coupled to the control and communication module, wherein the enhanced or extended operating mode includes delaying wireless power transmission to allow NFC communication with a corresponding NFC communication module in the wireless power transmitter.

4. The wireless power receiver of claim 1, wherein the communication conforming to a standard communication protocol that negotiates a change to an enhanced or extended operating mode includes communication indicating one or more enhanced capabilities of the wireless power receiver.

5. The wireless power receiver of claim 4, wherein the communication conforming to a standard communication protocol for negotiating a change in enhanced or extended operating mode further includes communication requesting one or more enhanced capabilities of the wireless power transmitter.

6. The wireless power receiver of claim 5, wherein the communication conforming to a standard communication protocol for negotiating a change in enhanced or extended operating modes further includes communication confirming one or more enhanced capabilities of the wireless power transmitter.

7. The wireless power receiver of claim 1, wherein the communication compliant with a standard communication protocol for negotiating a change in enhanced or extended operating modes includes communication related to the user interface capabilities of at least one of the wireless power transmitter and the wireless power receiver.

8. A wireless power transmitter, comprising: A transmitter coil configured to deliver power to a wireless power receiver; An inverter coupled to the transmitter coil and configured to convert an input voltage into an AC voltage delivered to the transmitter coil; and A control and communication module, coupled to the transmitter coil and the inverter, wherein the control and communication module is further configured to: Receive in-band communication signals from the wireless power receiver via the transmitter coil; The inverter is operated to generate an in-band communication signal delivered to the power receiver via the transmitter coil; The in-band communication signals received from the wireless power receiver include communication conforming to a standard communication protocol, the communication indicating that the receiver can operate at a frequency different from the frequency specified by the standard communication protocol, and the in-band communication signals delivered to the power receiver include confirmation that the receiver can operate at a frequency different from the frequency specified by the standard communication protocol and that a transition to an enhanced or extended operating mode has been negotiated, the enhanced or extended operating mode including performing wireless power transmission at a frequency different from the wireless power transmission frequency specified by the standard communication protocol.

9. The wireless power transmitter of claim 8, wherein the enhanced or extended operating mode further includes operating at a power level different from the power level specified by the standard communication protocol.

10. The wireless power transmitter of claim 8, further comprising an NFC communication module coupled to the control and communication module, wherein the enhanced or extended operating mode includes delaying wireless power transmission to allow NFC communication with a corresponding NFC communication module in the wireless power receiver.

11. The wireless power transmitter of claim 8, wherein the communication conforming to a standard communication protocol that negotiates a change to an enhanced or extended operating mode includes communication indicating one or more enhanced capabilities of the wireless power transmitter.

12. The wireless power transmitter of claim 11, wherein the communication conforming to a standard communication protocol for negotiating a change in enhanced or extended operating modes further includes communication requesting one or more enhanced capabilities of the wireless power receiver.

13. The wireless power transmitter of claim 12, wherein the communication conforming to a standard communication protocol for negotiating a change in enhanced or extended operating modes further includes communication confirming one or more enhanced capabilities of the wireless power receiver.

14. The wireless power transmitter of claim 8, wherein the communication compliant with a standard communication protocol for negotiating a change in enhanced or extended operating modes includes communication related to the user interface capabilities of at least one of the wireless power transmitter and the wireless power receiver.

15. A method for negotiating wireless power transmission between a device acting as a wireless power transmitter or wireless power receiver and a paired device, the method comprising: Use standard communication protocols to initiate communication with the paired device; The device transmits one or more enhanced capabilities to the paired device using the standard communication protocol, the one or more enhanced capabilities including the ability to perform wireless power transmission at a frequency different from the wireless power transmission frequency specified by the standard communication protocol; Determine whether the paired device is also capable of operating according to each of the one or more enhancement capabilities; as well as If the pairing device is unable to operate according to one or more of the enhanced capabilities, it shall operate in standard mode. or If the paired device is able to operate according to one or more of the enhancement capabilities, a transition to an agreed enhancement mode that includes one or more of the enhancement capabilities is negotiated.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the communication between the device and its paired device is in-band communication.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the enhancement capability includes the ability to operate at a power level different from the power level specified by the standard communication protocol.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the enhanced capability includes NFC communication capability and the enhanced mode includes delaying wireless power transmission to allow NFC communication.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein the enhanced capability includes user interface capabilities.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the agreement enhancement mode includes an agreement between the device and its paired device regarding which device will provide the user with information about the status of wireless power transmission.

21. A wireless power receiver, comprising: A receiver coil configured to receive power from a wireless power transmitter; A rectifier coupled to the receiver coil and configured to convert an AC voltage appearing across the receiver coil into a DC voltage delivered to the load; and A control and communication module, coupled to the receiver coil and the rectifier, wherein the control and communication module is configured to: Receive in-band communication signals from the wireless power transmitter via the receiver coil; as well as The rectifier is operated to generate an in-band communication signal delivered to the power transmitter via the receiver coil; The in-band communication signals delivered to the power transmitter via the receiver coil include communication for negotiating operation at an operating frequency selected from a plurality of operating frequencies.

22. The wireless power receiver of claim 21, wherein the in-band communication signal conforms to a standard communication protocol.

23. The wireless power receiver of claim 22, wherein the in-band communication signal includes communication for negotiating operation at a power level selected from a plurality of power levels.

24. The wireless power receiver of claim 23, wherein the higher power level of the plurality of power levels corresponds to the higher operating frequency of the plurality of operating frequencies, and the lower power level of the plurality of power levels corresponds to the lower operating frequency of the plurality of operating frequencies.

25. The wireless power receiver of claim 21, wherein the in-band communication signal includes communication for negotiating operation at a power level selected from a plurality of power levels.

26. The wireless power receiver of claim 21, further comprising an NFC communication module coupled to the control and communication module, wherein the in-band communication signal includes negotiating a delay in wireless power transmission to allow communication with a corresponding NFC communication module in the wireless power transmitter.

27. The wireless power receiver of claim 21, wherein the in-band communication includes communication relating to the user interface capabilities of at least one of the wireless power transmitter and the wireless power receiver.

28. A wireless power transmitter, comprising: A transmitter coil configured to deliver power to a wireless power receiver; An inverter coupled to the transmitter coil and configured to convert an input voltage into an AC voltage delivered to the transmitter coil; and A control and communication module, coupled to the transmitter coil and the inverter, wherein the control and communication module is further configured to: Receive in-band communication signals from the wireless power receiver via the transmitter coil; The inverter is operated to generate an in-band communication signal delivered to the power receiver via the transmitter coil; The in-band communication signals received from the wireless power receiver include communications for negotiating operation at an operating frequency selected from a plurality of operating frequencies.

29. The wireless power transmitter of claim 28, wherein the in-band communication signal conforms to a standard communication protocol.

30. The wireless power transmitter of claim 29, wherein the in-band communication signal includes communication for negotiating operation at a power level selected from a plurality of power levels.

31. The wireless power transmitter of claim 30, wherein the higher power level of the plurality of power levels corresponds to the higher operating frequency of the plurality of operating frequencies, and the lower power level of the plurality of power levels corresponds to the lower operating frequency of the plurality of operating frequencies.

32. The wireless power transmitter of claim 28, wherein the in-band communication signal includes communication for negotiating operation at a power level selected from a plurality of power levels.

33. The wireless power transmitter of claim 28 further includes an NFC communication module coupled to the control and communication module, wherein the in-band communication signal includes negotiating a delay in wireless power transmission to allow communication with a corresponding NFC communication module in the wireless power receiver.

34. The wireless power transmitter of claim 28, wherein the in-band communication signal includes communication relating to the user interface capabilities of at least one of the wireless power transmitter and the wireless power receiver.

35. A method for negotiating wireless power transmission between a device acting as a wireless power transmitter or wireless power receiver and a paired device, the method comprising: Initiate communication with the paired device; Transmit one or more capabilities of the device to the paired device, the one or more capabilities including the ability to operate at multiple operating frequencies; as well as Determine whether the paired device is capable of operating at each of the plurality of operating frequencies; as well as If the paired device is capable of operating at a first operating frequency, then the first operating frequency is selected from the plurality of operating frequencies; or If the paired device can operate at the second operating frequency but cannot operate at the first operating frequency, then the second operating frequency is selected from the plurality of operating frequencies.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the communication between the device and its paired device is in-band communication conforming to a standard communication protocol.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein the capability includes the ability to operate at multiple power levels.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein each of the plurality of power levels corresponds to one of the plurality of operating frequencies.

39. The method of claim 35, wherein the capability includes NFC communication capability.

40. The method of claim 35, wherein the capability includes user interface capability.

41. The method of claim 40, wherein the agreement mode between the wireless power transmitter and the wireless power receiver includes an agreement on which device will provide information to the user regarding the status of the wireless power transmission.

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