Wireless power transfer profile

Abstract

A wireless power transmitter may include: a wireless power transfer coil; an inverter that receives an input DC voltage and outputs an AC voltage to the wireless power transfer coil in order to deliver power to a wireless power receiver; and a communication module configured to communicate with the wireless power receiver by sending and receiving a message requesting, selecting, or validating one of a plurality of power profiles of the wireless power transmitter, the plurality of power profiles correspond to a gain measurement mode, a nominal mode that delivers a relatively high power level, and a light load mode that delivers a relatively low power level.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 63 / 364,817, filed on May 17, 2022, entitled “Wireless Power Transfer Profiles,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Background Art

[0003] Wireless power transfer ("WPT"), such as inductive power transfer ("IPT"), can be used to provide power for charging various battery-powered electronic devices. One application where WPT usage is increasing is in the consumer electronics space surrounding devices such as mobile phones (i.e., smartphones) and their accessories (e.g., wireless earphones, smart watches, etc.), as well as tablets and other types of portable computers and their accessories (e.g., styluses, etc.). Summary of the invention

[0004] A wireless power transmitter may include: a wireless power transmission coil; an inverter that receives an input DC voltage and outputs an AC voltage to the wireless power transmission coil so as to deliver power to a wireless power receiver; and a communication module configured to communicate with the wireless power receiver by sending and receiving messages requesting, selecting or confirming one of a plurality of power profiles of the wireless power transmitter, the plurality of power profiles corresponding to a gain measurement mode, a nominal mode delivering a relatively high power level, and a light load mode delivering a relatively low power level.

[0005] The wireless power transmitter may be further configured to set the operation mode in response to a message received from the wireless power receiver selecting a power profile corresponding to the operation mode of the wireless power transmitter. The wireless power transmitter may be further configured to confirm the set operation mode by sending a confirmation message to the wireless power receiver in response to a message received from the wireless power receiver selecting a power profile corresponding to the operation mode. The wireless power transmitter may be further configured to request a temporary interruption of wireless power transmission if the message received from the wireless power receiver selecting the power profile corresponding to the operation mode selects an operation mode in which the input DC voltage is expected to be changed. The wireless power transmitter may be further configured to temporarily interrupt wireless power transmission in response to a message received from the wireless power receiver requesting a temporary interruption of wireless power transmission. The wireless power transmitter may be further configured to request the operation mode by transmitting a message to the wireless power receiver requesting a power profile corresponding to the operation mode of the wireless power transmitter. The wireless power transmitter may transmit a message requesting a light load profile in response to a high temperature condition of the wireless power transmitter.

[0006] A wireless power receiver may include: a wireless power transmission coil; a rectifier that receives an input AC voltage induced in the wireless power transmission coil by a wireless power transmitter and outputs a DC voltage; and a communication module that is configured to communicate with the wireless power transmitter by sending and receiving messages requesting, selecting or confirming one of a plurality of power profiles of the wireless power transmitter, the plurality of power profiles corresponding to a gain measurement mode, a nominal mode delivering a relatively high power level, and a light load mode delivering a relatively low power level.

[0007] The wireless power receiver may be further configured to transmit a message selecting the operating mode in response to a message received from the wireless power transmitter requesting a power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter. The wireless power receiver may be further configured to transmit a message selecting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter based at least in part on a charge state of a battery in the wireless power receiver. If the charge state of the battery is high, the wireless power receiver may transmit a message selecting a power profile corresponding to the light load mode. If the charge state of the battery is low, the wireless power receiver may transmit a message selecting a power profile corresponding to the nominal mode.

[0008] A method performed by a wireless power transmitter may include: receiving a message from a wireless power receiver selecting a power profile corresponding to an operation mode of the wireless power transmitter; setting the operation mode of the wireless power transmitter in response to the received message; and transmitting a message confirming the power profile to the wireless power receiver. The power profile may be selected from the group consisting of a gain measurement mode profile, a low power mode profile, and a nominal mode profile.

[0009] The method may also include: before receiving the message selecting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter from the wireless power receiver, transmitting a message requesting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter to the wireless power receiver. Transmitting the message requesting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter to the wireless power receiver may include requesting the low power mode profile in response to a high temperature condition of the wireless power transmitter. Transmitting the message requesting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter to the wireless power receiver may include requesting a temporary interruption of wireless power transmission to allow the wireless power transmitter to change the input voltage of the wireless power transmitter.

[0010] A method performed by a wireless power receiver may include: transmitting a message to a wireless power transmitter selecting a power profile corresponding to an operating mode of the wireless power transmitter; and receiving a message from the wireless power transmitter confirming the power profile. The power profile may be selected from the group consisting of a gain measurement mode profile, a low power mode profile, and a nominal mode profile.

[0011] The method may also include: before transmitting the message selecting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter to the wireless power transmitter, receiving a message requesting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter from the wireless power transmitter. Transmitting the message selecting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter to the wireless power transmitter may include selecting the low power mode profile in response to a high charge state of a battery of the wireless power receiver. Transmitting the message selecting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter to the wireless power transmitter may include selecting the nominal mode profile in response to a low charge state of a battery of the wireless power receiver. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 A block diagram of a wireless power transfer system is shown.

[0013] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2BThe physical configuration of the wireless power transfer system is shown.

[0014] Figure 3 Various combinations of profile-aware and non-profile-aware PTx and PRx devices are shown.

[0015] Figure 4 An exemplary ASK profile selection packet is shown.

[0016] Figure 5 An exemplary FSK profile selection packet is shown.

[0017] Figure 6 An exemplary ASK activity profile grouping is shown.

[0018] Figure 7 An exemplary FSK activity profile grouping is shown.

[0019] Figure 8 Depicted is a messaging sequence diagram illustrating communications between a wireless power receiver and a wireless power transmitter, including various profile exchange messages.

[0020] Fig. 9 Another messaging sequence diagram is shown.

[0021] Fig.10 Depicted Figure 8 and Fig. 9 message exchanges, where the various exchanges are represented as boxes.

[0022] Fig.11A Another messaging sequence diagram is shown.

[0023] Fig. 11B Another messaging sequence diagram is shown.

[0024] Fig.12 Messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx that charges the PRx device from a low charge state in a battery associated with the PRx is shown in block form.

[0025] Fig.13 Messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx that charges the PRx device starting from a high state of charge in a battery associated with the PRx is shown in block form.

[0026] Fig.14 Messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx charging a PRx device at a high state of charge, followed by removal of the PRx device and replacement of the PRx device is shown in block form.

[0027] Fig.15 Messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx charging a PRx device at a high state of charge, followed by removal of the PRx device and replacement of the PRx device is shown in block form.

[0028] Fig.16 Messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx charging a PRx device at a low charge state, followed by removal of the PRx device and replacement of the PRx device is shown in block form.

[0029] Fig.17 Messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx charging a PRx device at a high state of charge, followed by removal of the PRx device and replacement of the PRx device with a device having a high state of charge is shown in block form.

[0030] Fig.18 Messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx charging a PRx device at a high state of charge followed by removal of the PRx device and replacement of the PRx device with a non-profile-aware device is shown in block form.

[0031] Fig.19 Messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx charging a PRx device at a high state of charge followed by removal of the PRx device and replacement of the PRx device with a non-profile-aware device that does not support high frequency operation is shown in block form. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed concepts. As part of this description, some of the drawings in the drawings of the present disclosure represent structures and devices in block diagram form for simplicity. For the sake of clarity, not all features of actual implementations are described in the present disclosure. In addition, the language used in the present disclosure is selected for readability and instructional purposes and has not been selected to describe or limit the disclosed subject matter. Instead, the attached claims are intended for this purpose.

[0033] Various embodiments of the disclosed concepts are illustrated by way of example, and are not limited to individual drawings, in which similar reference numerals indicate similar elements. For simplicity and clear illustration, reference numerals are repeated in different drawings to indicate corresponding or similar elements, where appropriate. In addition, many specific details are shown in order to provide a full understanding of the specific implementation described herein. In other cases, methods, procedures, and components are not described in detail to avoid blurring the related functions described. Mentioning "one", "a kind of" or "another" embodiment in the present disclosure is not necessarily the same or different embodiments, and this means at least one. A given drawing may be used to illustrate more than one embodiment or more than one type of features of the present disclosure, and all elements in the drawings may not be required for a given embodiment or type. When provided in a given drawing, the reference numeral refers to the same element throughout several drawings, but it may not be repeated in each drawing. Unless otherwise specified, the drawings are not drawn to scale, and the proportions of certain components may be enlarged to better illustrate the details and features of the present disclosure.

[0034] 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, such as via inductive coupling 130. The power transmitter 110 can receive input power, which is converted by an inverter 114 into an AC voltage having 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 the communication module can be implemented in a common system (such as a system based on a microprocessor, a microcontroller, etc.). In other embodiments, the inverter controller can be implemented by a separate controller module and a communication module with a communication device 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., MOSFET, IGBT, etc. manufactured using silicon, silicon carbide, or gallium nitride devices).

[0035] The inverter 114 can deliver the generated AC voltage to the transmitter coil 112. In addition to allowing magnetic coupling to the wireless coil of PRx, Figure 1The transmitter coil block 112 shown in the figure may include tuning circuits (such as additional inductors and capacitors) that facilitate the operation of the PTx under different conditions (such as different degrees of magnetic coupling to the PRx, different operating frequencies, etc.). The wireless coil itself can be constructed in a variety of different ways. In some embodiments, the wireless coil can be formed as a wire winding around a suitable bobbin. In other embodiments, the wireless coil can be formed as a trace on a printed circuit board. In yet other embodiments, the wireless coil can be a flat wound coil or an air coil. 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 that is sized and positioned to affect the flux pattern of the coil in a manner suitable for a particular application. The teachings herein may be applied in conjunction with any of the various transmitter coil arrangements suitable for a given application.

[0036] The PTx controller / communication module 116 may 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 may be configured to operate the inverter 114 at a given frequency or output voltage depending on the particular application. In some embodiments, the controller / communication module may be configured to receive information from the PRx device and control the inverter 114 accordingly. This information may be received via the power transmission coil (i.e., in-band communication) or may be received via a separate communication channel (not shown, i.e., out-of-band communication). For in-band communication, the controller / communication module 116 may detect and decode signals (such as voltage, frequency, or load changes) applied by the PRx on the magnetic link to receive information, and may instruct the inverter to modulate the delivered power by manipulating various parameters of the generated voltage (such as voltage, frequency, etc.) to send information to the PRx. In some embodiments, the controller / communication module may be configured to employ frequency shift keying (FSK) communication to convey data to the PRx, in which the frequency of the inverter signal is modulated. The controller / communication module 116 may be configured to detect amplitude shift keying (ASK) communications or load modulation based communications from the PRx. In either case, the controller / communication module 126 may be configured to vary the impedance of the PRx to manipulate the waveform seen on the Tx coil, thereby delivering information from the PRx to the PTx. For out-of-band communications, additional modules may be provided that allow communication between the PTx and PRx, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, infrared (IR) or other radio / optical links or any other suitable communication channel.

[0037] As described above, the controller / communication module 116 can be a single module, for example, disposed on a single integrated circuit, or can be constructed from a plurality of modules / devices disposed on different integrated circuits or a combination of integrated circuits and discrete circuits having analog components and digital components. The teachings herein are not limited to any particular arrangement of controller / communication circuits.

[0038] The PTx device 110 may optionally include other systems and components, such as a separate communication module 118. In some embodiments, the communication module 118 may communicate with a corresponding module tag in the PRx via a power transfer coil. In other embodiments, the communication module 118 may communicate with a corresponding module using a separate physical channel 138.

[0039] As mentioned above, the wireless power transfer system also includes a wireless power receiver (PRx) 120. The wireless power receiver may include a receiver coil 122 that may be magnetically coupled 130 to the transmitter coil 112. As discussed above, the transmitter coil 112, Figure 1 The receiver coil block 122 shown in the figure may include tuning circuits (such as additional inductors and capacitors) that facilitate operation of the PTx under different conditions (such as different degrees of magnetic coupling to the PRx, different operating frequencies, etc.). The wireless coil itself can be constructed in a variety of different ways. In some embodiments, the wireless coil can be formed as a winding of wire around a suitable bobbin. In other embodiments, the wireless coil can 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 that is configured to affect the flux pattern of the coil in a manner suitable for a particular application. The teachings herein may be applied in conjunction with any of a variety of receiver coil arrangements suitable for a given application.

[0040] The receiver coil 122 outputs an AC voltage induced therein by magnetic induction via the transmitter coil 112. The output AC voltage may be provided to a rectifier 124, which provides a DC output power to one or more loads associated with the PRx device. The rectifier 124 may be controlled by a controller / communication module 126, which operates as further described below. In various embodiments, the rectifier controller and the communication module may be implemented in a common system (such as a system based on a microprocessor, a microcontroller, etc.). In other embodiments, the rectifier controller may be implemented by a separate controller module and a communication module with a communication device therebetween. The rectifier 124 may be constructed using any suitable circuit topology (e.g., full bridge, half bridge, etc.) and may be implemented using any suitable semiconductor switching device technology (e.g., MOSFETs, IGBTs, etc. manufactured using silicon, silicon carbide, or gallium nitride devices).

[0041] The PRx controller / communication module 126 may 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 may be configured to cause the rectifier 124 to provide a given output voltage depending on the particular application. In some embodiments, the controller / communication module may be configured to transmit information to the PTx device to effectively control the power delivered to the PRx. This information may be sent via the power transmission coil (i.e., in-band communication) or may be sent via a separate communication channel (not shown, i.e., out-of-band communication). For in-band communication, the controller / communication module 126 may, for example, modulate the load current or other electrical parameters of the received power to transmit the information to the PTx. In some embodiments, the controller / communication module 126 may be configured to detect and decode signals (such as voltage, frequency, or load changes) imposed on the magnetic link by the PTx to receive information from the PTx. In some embodiments, the controller / communication module 126 may be configured to receive frequency shift keying (FSK) communications in which the frequency of the inverter signal has been modulated to convey data to the PRx. The controller / communication module 126 may be configured to generate amplitude shift keying (ASK) communications or load modulation based communications from the PRx. In either case, the controller / communication module 126 may be configured to vary the current drawn by the PRx to manipulate the waveform seen on the Tx coil, thereby delivering information from the PRx to the PTx. For out-of-band communications, additional modules may be provided that allow communication between the PTx and PRx, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, or other radio links, or any other suitable communication channel.

[0042] As described above, the controller / communication module 126 can be a single module, for example, disposed on a single integrated circuit, or can be constructed from a plurality of modules / devices disposed on different integrated circuits or a combination of integrated circuits and discrete circuits having analog components and digital components. The teachings herein are not limited to any particular arrangement of controller / communication circuits.

[0043] The PRx device 120 may optionally include other systems and components, such as a communication ("communication") module 128. In some embodiments, the communication module 128 may communicate with a corresponding module in the PTx via a power transfer coil. In other embodiments, the communication module 128 may communicate with a corresponding module or tag using a separate physical channel 138.

[0044] Many variations and enhancements of the wireless power transmission system 100 described above are possible, and the following teachings apply to any of such variations and enhancements.

[0045] Wireless power transmission as described above depends on the degree of electromagnetic coupling between PTx and PRx. For example, in an inductive charging system, the transmitter coil 112 and the receiver coil 122 can be considered as loosely coupled transformers. Therefore, the relative position of PTx and PRx can affect the degree of magnetic coupling between PTx and PRx, which in turn can affect the power transmission capability of the system. Figure 2A A simplified diagram of a PTx (110)-PRx (120) system is shown. The two devices are shown in a plan view (upper portion of the figure) and an edge cross-sectional view (lower portion of the figure). The PTx device 110 includes a transmitter coil 112, and the PRx device 120 includes a receiver coil 122. In some embodiments, the PTx device 110 can be a wireless charging plate, pad, or stand (or other wireless power transmission device), and the PRx device 120 can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, smart watch (or other wireless power receiver device). Although the respective devices are depicted as having a generally rectangular shape with a generally circular charging coil, it should be understood that other configurations are possible.

[0046] Figure 2B The PTx 110 and PRx 120 are shown in a power transfer position. Figure 2B In the embodiment of the present invention, these devices are aligned horizontally (as depicted in plan view) and vertically and as close as possible (as shown in cross-section view). In this context, horizontal and vertical are used as terms of convenience only, and the actual orientation of the system may vary, and the following description applies to systems in any such orientation, although "horizontal" and "vertical" will continue to be used for clarity of context.

[0047] In practice, PTx and PRx devices operate with a certain degree of independence, even though they must also interoperate. To this end, various "standardized" operating modes may be defined, with each device having one or more operating modes. In some cases, these modes may be part of an industry standard, allowing devices from any manufacturer to operate with devices from any other manufacturer. In other cases, devices from a single manufacturer (or a single manufacturer and its partners) may operate according to a non-public (i.e., proprietary) standard that only allows interoperation between devices from that manufacturer (and its partners). In some cases, a device may be able to operate according to both a published industry standard (or multiple published industry standards) and a proprietary standard (or multiple proprietary standards). In any case, to date, each device may have made certain inferences about the current state of its paired device based on things such as timing, packet counts, and transmit power levels. However, it would be desirable to define a mechanism by which PTx and PRx devices can explicitly specify their current operating mode / state to paired devices. Various mechanisms that allow such exchanges are disclosed below. More specifically, the following defines various profiles (corresponding to operating modes or states) and messaging protocols for exchanging such profile information.

[0048] As described above, it may be desirable for a wireless power transfer device to interoperate with other wireless power transfer devices that operate according to different standards (whether public or proprietary). To this end, it is expected that in some cases, a device incorporating the profile communication techniques described herein may interoperate with a corresponding device that does not have this capability. For example, in Figure 3 In view 300a, a profile-aware PTx 310a (ie, configured to establish and communicate power profiles as described herein) may interoperate with a non-profile-aware PRx 320a. Figure 3 In view 300b, non-profile-aware PTx 310b can interoperate with profile-aware PRx 320b. Figure 3 In view 300c, both PTx 310c and PRx 320c may be profile-aware. Thus, a profile-aware device may be configured to exchange profile information with a paired device in a manner that allows for improved operation through paired device state awareness when both devices are profile-aware, but does not interfere with interoperation according to an alternative non-profile-aware standard / operation mode if the paired device is not profile-aware.

[0049] To facilitate profile-aware interoperability of wireless power transfer devices, various logical profiles may be defined. For example, a profile may include a gain measurement profile, a nominal power transfer profile, and a light load power transfer profile. Additional profiles may also be defined. These profiles may correspond to various operating states of wireless power transfer devices, including states that exist in current wireless power transfer systems and standard or new states that may only apply to certain devices. The gain measurement profile may correspond to a state in which the interoperating wireless power transfer device is performing a "calibration" measurement to determine the degree of coupling between the devices, the maximum or negotiated power transfer amount that such coupling can support, etc. The nominal profile may correspond to a state in which power is transferred at a relatively high rate (e.g., the power rating of either device or the maximum power level that can be supported by the degree of coupling between the devices). The light load profile may correspond to a state in which only a small amount of power is being transferred, for example because the capabilities of the corresponding devices are unknown / undetermined, or because only a small amount of power transfer is required, such as because the battery of the PRx device is approaching a fully charged state. In any case, the behavior of both the PTx and PRx devices may be defined for each of the profiles / states.

[0050] To further facilitate profile-aware interoperability of wireless power transfer devices, a messaging protocol may be defined to allow respective devices to communicate their modes / states to each other and / or request paired devices to switch to different states. For example, messages may be defined for requesting or activating a particular profile, querying about the active profile of a device, responding to the aforementioned messages, or temporarily pausing power transfer. Illustrative examples of such messages and their use are discussed in more detail below. It may be preferred that such messages be incorporated into a standard (such as a public industry standard) to allow devices to take advantage of these enhancements.

[0051] When initially establishing communication, the devices may operate in different active profiles corresponding to the current state of the respective devices. For example, a PRx device may start in a gain measurement state / profile or a light load profile until it determines whether a higher power level can be delivered. Similarly, a PTx device may start in a light load profile and wait to transition to a higher power level (such as a nominal power level state) until PRx makes a corresponding request. Therefore, it may be desirable for the device to assume that the startup profile of the paired device is unknown. It may be preferred that the PRx device sets the required initial profile. For example, a PRx device may select between a light load or nominal profile / state based on the charging stage of the onboard battery. Similarly, some devices may be able to operate at different frequencies, and PRx may determine the most appropriate operating frequency. In such cases, if both devices have this capability, communication may start at a first "more common" frequency and then transition to a second "more optimized" frequency. In such cases, profile communication and selection may occur at either the first frequency or the second frequency, but it must occur at one frequency or the other. In some embodiments, negotiation may occur at the first frequency and / or must occur at the second frequency. By optionally performing a profile exchange at the initial frequency, any reconfiguration or optimization required for the requested mode can be accomplished during the frequency transition.

[0052] Additionally, a request or confirmation of a selected profile may be required at the start of a power transfer phase. By requiring a request / confirmation of a selected profile upon entering the power transfer phase, erroneous operation due to device swapping may be avoided. Likewise, during a power transfer, a device may request to switch to a different power profile. For example, when a battery being charged by a PRx device approaches a high state of charge, the PRx device may request a transition to a light load profile. If necessary for thermal management or other reasons, a PRx or PTx device may request a transition to a light load profile. Many other operating scenarios may indicate the desirability of a profile change, so either device may request a profile change at any time during a power transfer.

[0053] As described above, a power profile may correspond to an operating mode or state of a device. Thus, the power transfer capabilities of a PTx device may change depending on the profile / mode. For example, in a light load mode, the PTx may limit its power transfer to a level lower than it nominally can support. As described in more detail below, this may include reconfiguring the input power supply to provide a different input voltage, etc. In addition, when a profile change is requested, the paired device (whether PTx or PRx) may not be ready to perform the change immediately, and therefore the paired device may request a postponement. For example, the PTx may need to reconfigure its input voltage when transitioning to or from a light load profile. This may require the PTx to temporarily stop power transfer, sometimes referred to as a "cloaking" mode of operation. Therefore, a power profile messaging scheme may include messaging related to cloaking to facilitate these (or other) mode changes that may not be immediately possible.

[0054] As mentioned above about Figure 3 As discussed, interoperability between profile-aware devices and non-profile-aware devices may be desirable. In some cases, PTx and PRx devices may always start in a predefined mode defined by an industry standard. For example, both PTx and PRx devices may start in a gain measurement mode to allow calibration as described above. Profile-aware devices should be designed (i.e., configured or programmed) to operate in a backward compatible mode when they are engaged with non-profile-aware devices. During the initiation phase, the devices may use predefined message exchanges and analyze the received responses to determine whether the paired device is profile-aware. In general, if the corresponding device is not profile-aware, this will require the profile-aware device to operate according to a non-profile-aware mode (e.g., a mode defined by an industry standard).

[0055] Figure 4 An exemplary profile selection packet 400 that PRx may transmit to PTx is shown. Other packet configurations, such as those specified by appropriate standards based on industry standards, may be used. The profile selection packet may be transmitted via in-band or out-of-band communication, as described above with respect to Figure 1as described. In the case of in-band communication, if transmitted by PRx, the packet may be transmitted by ASK (amplitude shift keying). In some wireless power transmission applications, PRx devices use some form of ASK / AM (amplitude modulation) to communicate, which they can achieve by selective control of the rectifier switching device. Conversely, the wireless power transmitter may use some form of FSK / FM (frequency shift keying / frequency modulation), which they can achieve by selective control of the inverter switching device. In any case, one form of the profile selection packet may be a byte (B0) consisting of eight bits (b0-b7). The upper 5 bits may be reserved, while the lower 3 bits may indicate the state that PRx is requesting, where the value 000 corresponds to the gain measurement mode, 001 corresponds to the nominal mode, and 010 corresponds to the light load mode, and the remaining values ​​011-111 are reserved for other modes / states that may be provided in a given application.

[0056] Figure 4 Also depicted are various replies that the PTx device may transmit in response to the Profile Selection Packet of the PRx. The response may be an ACK (Acknowledgement), where the PTx acknowledges the switch to the requested profile. The response may be a NAK (Not Acknowledged), which means that the PTx is rejecting the requested profile change. The response may be an ND (Not Defined), which indicates that the PTx does not support or understand the selected profile. The response may also be an ATN (Attention), which indicates that the PTx wishes to communicate before switching profiles. Additionally, if the requested state corresponds to the current state (e.g., for a status confirmation), the PTx may acknowledge (ACK) the request. These response messages may be defined in accordance with any standard communication protocol employed by the PRx and PTx devices.

[0057] Figure 5 An exemplary profile selection packet 500 that PTx may transmit to PRx is shown. Other packet configurations, such as those specified by appropriate industry standards, may be used. The profile selection packet may be transmitted via in-band or out-of-band communication, as described above with respect to Figure 1as described. In the case of in-band communication, if transmitted by PTx, the packet may be transmitted by FSK (frequency shift keying). One form of the profile selection packet transmitted by PTx may be a byte (B0) consisting of eight bits (b0-b7). The upper 5 bits may be reserved, while the lower 3 bits may indicate the state that PRx is requesting, where the value 000 corresponds to the gain measurement mode, 001 corresponds to the nominal mode, and 010 corresponds to the light load mode, with the remaining values ​​011-111 being reserved for other modes / states that may be provided in a given application. In some applications, profile selection packets originating from PTx may be allowed only during the power transfer phase, for example to allow PTx to request a transition from a nominal power transfer state to a light load state to avoid overheating. (Other reasons why PTx may request a profile change are also conceivable.)

[0058] Figure 5 Also depicted are various replies that the PRx device may transmit in response to the Profile Selection Packet of the PTx. The response may be an ACK (Acknowledgement), where the PRx acknowledges the switch to the requested profile. The response may be a NAK (Not Acknowledged), which means that the PRx is rejecting the requested profile change. The response may be an ND (Not Defined), which indicates that the PRx does not support or understand the selected profile. As described above, if the requested state corresponds to the current state (e.g., for a Status Confirmation), the PRx may acknowledge (ACK) the request. These response messages may be defined in accordance with any standard communication protocol employed by the PRx and PTx devices.

[0059] Figure 6 6 shows an activity profile packet 600 that PRx may transmit to PTx in response to a request from PTx for an activity status of PRx. Other packet configurations, such as those specified by appropriate industry standards, may be used. The activity profile packet may be transmitted via in-band or out-of-band communication, as described above with respect to Figure 1 As described. In the case of in-band communication, if transmitted by PRx, the packet may be transmitted by ASK (Amplitude Shift Keying). In any case, one form of the active profile packet may be a byte (B0) consisting of eight bits (b0-b7). The upper 5 bits may be reserved, while the lower 3 bits may indicate the state of PRx, where a value of 000 corresponds to a gain measurement mode, 001 corresponds to a nominal mode, and 010 corresponds to a light load mode, with the remaining values ​​011-111 being reserved for other modes / states that may be provided in a given application.

[0060] Figure 6Also depicted in the contemplation that the PTx device may select packets to transmit in response to the PRx's profile, it may be limited to an ACK (acknowledgement) where the PTx acknowledges the PRx's profile. The response message may be defined according to any standard communication protocol employed by the PRx and PTx device.

[0061] Figure 7 700 is shown that PTx may transmit to PRx in response to a request from PRx for an activity status of PTx. Other packet configurations, such as those specified by appropriate industry standards, may be used. The activity profile packet may be transmitted via in-band or out-of-band communication, as described above with respect to Figure 1 As described. In the case of in-band communication, if transmitted by PTx, the packet may be transmitted by FSK (frequency shift keying). In any case, one form of the active profile packet may be a byte (B0) consisting of eight bits (b0-b7). The upper 5 bits may be reserved, while the lower 3 bits may indicate the state of PTx, where the value 000 corresponds to gain measurement mode, 001 corresponds to nominal mode, and 010 corresponds to light load mode, with the remaining values ​​011-111 being reserved for other modes / states that may be provided in a given application. No response needs to be transmitted / defined for this packet type.

[0062] Figure 8A messaging sequence diagram 800 is depicted showing communication between a wireless power receiver (PRx 820) and a wireless power transmitter (PTx 810), including various profile exchange messages as described above. More specifically, the messaging sequence diagram 800 may be a startup sequence in which PRx 820 requests PTx 810 to enter a gain management mode prior to requesting a change to a different operating frequency. Beginning at 841, a ping message sequence may be exchanged in accordance with an industry standard protocol, such as the Qi protocol for wireless power transfer promulgated by the Wireless Power Alliance. Following this, a message sequence 842 may be exchanged in which PTx and / or PRx identify themselves to each other. A negotiation 843 to establish a suitable power transfer channel may then be conducted (utilizing these messages as described in detail above). A message 844a may be transmitted from PRx to PTx indicating that a chime notifies the user that PTx and PRx have established communication. PTx may acknowledge the message with an ACK message 844b. At 845a, Rx 820 may transmit a message 845a requesting PTx to establish a gain measurement profile. Message 845a may have the form indicated above or may take any other suitable form. PTx 810 may confirm (and confirm entry into gain management mode) by transmitting ACK message 845b. In some cases, this exchange 845 may be optional. Then, optionally, in message 846a, PRx 820 may request a frequency change to another frequency (e.g., 360kHz—previous communication has occurred at 128kHz), which may also be confirmed by PTx 810 (846b). PRx 820 may transmit additional messages 847a and 848 to effectuate the frequency change, wherein message 847a is confirmed by PTx 810 and PTx 810 subsequently stops power supply to perform the profile change, resulting in a new check at 941.

[0063] Fig. 9 Another message receiving and sending sequence diagram 900 is shown, which starts from Figure 8 810. The power transmission state 944 is then continued where the figure of FIG. 800 was interrupted, i.e., the message sequence 941 corresponds to the check at the new operating frequency. The message transmission sequence 900 can be a continuation of the above sequence after the requested frequency change. The corresponding identification message exchange 942 and the negotiation message exchange 943 can then occur similar to those described above, but at the new operating frequency. Then, after entering the power transmission state 944, the PRx 820 can transmit a configuration file message 945a confirming the instruction for the PTx 810 to transition to the gain measurement mode. The PTx 810 can transmit an ACK message 945b confirming the instruction. Additional communications 946a (XCE) and 946b (ACK) can continue the power transmission. As described above, for some embodiments, the exchange 945 of the configuration file instruction from the PRx 820 to the PTx 810 can be mandatory.

[0064] Fig.10 is described as above Figure 8 and Fig. 9 FIG. 8 is a diagram of an exchange of wherein the various exchanges are represented as boxes using the same reference numerals. As described with respect to box 843, the frequency change profile change may be optional, whereas profile confirmation 945 may be mandatory.

[0065] Fig.11A It shows that the above Figures 8 to 10 Another messaging sequence diagram 1100 of the described exchange. The messaging sequence diagram 1100 may correspond to a request by PRx 820 to transition to a light load profile, such as when a battery being charged by PRx 820 approaches a fully charged state. While in the power transfer state (944), PRx may transmit a message 1155a requesting PTx to transition to a light load profile. PTx 810 may respond with an ATN (Attention) message 1155b to indicate that PTx 810 wants to postpone the profile change. In response, PRx 820 may transmit a polling message 1156a to which PTx 810 may respond with a cryptic [reason=profile change] message 1156b. This message may be conveyed to PRx that in order to comply with the request from PRx, PTx will need to temporarily interrupt power transfer. As an example, this may be because PTx is powered by a USB-PD device and wants to change the input operating voltage due to the requested lower power transfer level. PRx 820 may respond with a hide message 1157a to confirm / command PTx to transition to the hide state 1157b that PTx may enter. Upon resuming power transfer mode 1144 after hiding, PRx 820 may transmit a second / confirm set profile message 1158a commanding PTx to enter a low power profile, which PTx 810 may confirm with an ACK message 1158b.

[0066] Fig. 11B It shows that the above Figures 8 to 10Another messaging sequence diagram 1101 of the described exchange. The messaging sequence diagram 1101 may correspond to a request by PTx 810 to enter a nominal power transfer state. While in the power transfer state (944), as part of normal power transfer, PRx may transmit an XCE message 1151, to which PTx 810 responds with an ATN (Attention) message 1152, effectively informing PRx 820 that PTx 810 wishes to engage in a conversation. In response, PRx may respond with a poll message 1153a, to which PTx 810 may reply with a message 1153b, thereby requesting that the profile be set to the nominal profile. PRx 820 may then transmit a set profile to the nominal message 1153a, to which PTx 810 may respond with an ACK message 1154b confirming the transition to the nominal power profile.

[0067] The above figures include examples of various exchanges using the above power profile mechanism; however, these examples are not exhaustive. Different sequences of other mode transition requests may occur depending on the specific system, operating state, etc. Figures 12 to 19 shows (in a similar way to Fig.10 ) are provided for example exchanges of profile transitions in different usage scenarios. As noted above, these are not exhaustive and are provided only to illustrate some of the ways in which power profiles and associated messaging profiles may be employed in a wireless power transfer system.

[0068] Fig.12 The messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx charging the PRx device starting from a low charge state in a battery associated with the PRx is shown in block form. The entire time sequence can be divided into a low frequency phase 1250 and a high frequency phase 1260. (However, no frequency change is required, and in some applications, the entire operation can be performed at a single operating frequency). The low frequency phase 1250 can be divided into a ping phase 1251 (with associated messaging 1251a), an identification phase 1252 (with associated messaging 1252a), and a negotiation phase 1253 with messaging 1253a-1253d. These messages may include a PTx identifying itself (1253a) and a PRx transmitting chime message 1253b, a mode selection message 1253c (selecting a gain measurement mode, as described above), and a frequency transition message 1253d. The PTx device may then remove power, initiating an intermediate phase 1255 during which the PRx may optionally perform a scan 1255a for NFC (near field communication devices) and the PTx may convert its input power adapter to a higher voltage for operation at a higher frequency (optionally also at a higher power level).

[0069] This begins a high frequency phase 1260, which may be divided into a ping phase 1261 (with associated messaging 1261a), an identification phase 1262 (with associated messaging 1262a), and a negotiation phase 1263 with messaging 1263a-1263d. These messages may include PTx identifying itself (1263a) and transmitting its capabilities 1263b (e.g., indicating the ability to charge at a higher power level). Similarly, PRx may transmit its capabilities via message 1263c. PTx may then transmit a message 1263d confirming entry into the requested gain management mode. In the gain management phase 1264, multiple PRx messages 1264a may be transmitted to allow PTx to calculate gain. Thereafter, PRx may transmit a mode change request message 1264b (e.g., requesting a transition to a nominal power transfer mode as described above), which PTx may acknowledge (1264c). This begins a nominal power transfer mode 1264, which may include multiple feedback packets 1265a from PRx to PTx. When the PRx battery is close to being fully charged (e.g., at a 90% state of charge), PRx may transmit a mode change request message 1265b, such as a request to transition to a light load / low power state. PTx may reply with an ATN or similar message 1265c and a subsequent message (1265d) requesting that the input voltage source be switched back to a lower voltage by hiding. PRx may then respond with a hiding request. This begins a hiding state 1266, during which PTx may again switch the input power adapter (1266a). In a hiding exit phase 1267, PTx and PRx may transmit respective messages 1267b and 1267a confirming the hiding exit. Then, in a light load / low power phase 1268, PTx may transmit a capability 1268a to PRx, which PRx may confirm with a message 1268b. PTx may then transmit a Mode Change Complete message 1268c, which may be acknowledged by PRx with an ACK message 1268d.

[0070] Fig.13The messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx that charges the PRx device starting from a high state of charge in a battery associated with the PRx is shown in block form. The entire time sequence can be divided into a low frequency phase 1350 and a high frequency phase 1360. (However, no frequency change is required, and in some applications, the entire operation can be performed at a single operating frequency). The low frequency phase 1350 can be divided into a ping phase 1351 (with associated messaging 1351a), an identification phase (with associated messaging 1352a), and a negotiation phase 1353 with messaging 1353a-1353d. These messages may include PTx identifying itself (1353a) and PRx transmitting chime messages 1353b, mode selection messages 1353c (selecting low power / light load mode, as described above), and frequency transition messages 1353d. The PTx device may then remove power, initiating an intermediate phase 1355 during which the PRx may conduct an NFC device scan 1355a. However, because there will be no high power operation (at least at this time), the PTx does not need to transition its adapter to a higher operating voltage.

[0071] This begins a high frequency phase 1360, which may be divided into a ping phase 1361 (with associated messaging 1361a), an identification phase 1362 (with associated messaging 1362a), and a negotiation phase 1363 with messaging 1363a-1363d. These messages may include the PTx identifying itself (1363a) and transmitting its capabilities 1363b (e.g., indicating the ability to charge at a higher power level). Similarly, the PRx may transmit its capabilities via message 1363c. The PTx may then transmit a message 1363d confirming entry into the requested gain management mode. In the low power / light load power transfer mode 1364, multiple PRx messages 1364a-1364c may serve as normal feedback for PTx control.

[0072] Fig.14 The messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx that charges a PRx device in a high state of charge, followed by the removal of the PRx device and the replacement of the PRx device, is shown in box form. This scenario may occur, for example, if a user picks up a device (such as a mobile phone) and returns it to a charging pad after a brief use. The entire time sequence may be divided into a high frequency phase 1450, a subsequent low frequency phase 1460, and another high frequency phase 1470. (However, no frequency change is required, and in some applications, the entire operation may be performed at a single operating frequency). The high frequency phase 1450 may include a power transfer mode in a low power / light load mode 1451. This state may follow the above description of Fig.12and Fig.13 One of the scenarios described. In this initial high frequency phase 1450, a plurality of feedback packets 1451a may be transmitted by PRx, wherein when no feedback packets are received or an invalid feedback packet is received (indicating that the PRx device has been removed from PTx), PTx ends the power transfer mode at 1451b. Then, when the PRx device appears (or appears again as the case may be), the low frequency phase may begin to be divided into a verification phase 1461 (with associated messaging 1461a), an identification phase (with associated messaging 1462a), and a negotiation phase 1463 with messaging 1463a-1463d. These messages may include PTx identifying itself (1463a) and PRx transmitting a chime message 1463b, a mode selection message 1463c (selecting a low power / light load mode, as described above), and a frequency transition message 1463d. The PTx device may then remove power, initiating an intermediate phase 1465 during which the PRx may optionally perform a scan 1465a for NFC (near field communication devices). Fig.13 In the example discussed, no input voltage transition on the PTx side is required because the device will be in low power / light load mode.

[0073] This begins a subsequent high frequency phase 1470, which may be divided into a verification phase 1471 (with associated messaging 1471a), an identification phase 1472 (with associated messaging 1472a), and a negotiation phase 1473 with messaging 1473a-1473d. These messages may include the PTx identifying itself (1473a) and transmitting its capabilities 1473b (e.g., indicating the ability to charge at a higher power level). Similarly, the PRx may transmit its capabilities via message 1473c. The PTx may then transmit a message 1473d confirming entry into the requested low power / light load mode. In the low power / light load power transfer mode 1474, multiple PRx messages 1474a-1474c may serve as normal feedback for PTx control.

[0074] Fig.15The messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx that charges a PRx device in a high state of charge, followed by the removal of the PRx device and the replacement of the PRx device, is shown in box form. This scenario may occur, for example, if a user picks up a device (such as a mobile phone) and returns it to a charging pad after a brief use. The entire time sequence may be divided into a high frequency phase 1550, a subsequent low frequency phase 1560, and another high frequency phase 1570. (However, no frequency change is required, and in some applications, the entire operation may be performed at a single operating frequency). The high frequency phase 1550 may include a power transfer mode in a low power / light load mode 1551. This state may follow the above description of Fig.12 and Fig.13 One of the scenarios described. In this initial high frequency phase 1550, a plurality of feedback packets 1551a-1551c may be transmitted by PRx, wherein when no feedback packets are received or an invalid feedback packet is received (indicating that the PRx device has been removed from PTx), PTx ends the power transfer mode at 1551d. Then, when the PRx device appears (or appears again as the case may be), a low frequency phase 1560 may begin to be divided into a ping phase 1561 (with associated messaging 1561a), an identification phase 1562 (with associated messaging 1562a), and a negotiation phase 1563 with messaging 1563a-1563d. These messages may include PTx identifying itself (1563a) and PRx transmitting a chime message 1563b, a mode selection message 1563c (selecting the gain measurement mode, as described above), and a frequency transition message 1563d. The PTx device may then remove power, initiating an intermediate phase 1565 during which the PRx may optionally perform a scan 1565a for NFC (near field communication devices). Fig.12 In the example discussed, because the device will be in nominal (higher power mode), PTx may cause the input voltage to transition.

[0075] This begins a subsequent high frequency phase 1570, which may be divided into a verification phase 1571 (with associated messaging 1571a), an identification phase 1572 (with associated messaging 1572a), and a negotiation phase 1573 with messaging 1573a-1573d. These messages may include PTx identifying itself (1573a) and transmitting its capabilities 1573b (e.g., indicating the ability to charge at a higher power level). Similarly, PRx may transmit its capabilities via message 1573c. PTx may then transmit a message 1573d confirming entry into the gain measurement mode. In the gain management phase 1574, multiple PRx messages 1574a may be transmitted to allow PTx to calculate gain. Thereafter, PRx may transmit a mode change request message 1574b (e.g., requesting a transition to the nominal power transfer mode as described above), which PTx may acknowledge (1574c). This begins a nominal power transfer mode 1575, which may include multiple feedback packets 1575a from PRx to PTx. When the PRx battery approaches full charge (eg, at 90% state of charge), PRx may transmit a mode change request message to transition to a low power / light load mode as described above.

[0076] Fig.16The messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx that charges a PRx device in a low charge state, subsequently removes the PRx device and replaces the PRx device is shown in block form. This situation may occur, for example, if a user picks up a device (such as a mobile phone) and returns it to a charging pad after a brief use. The entire time sequence may be divided into a high frequency phase 1650, a subsequent low frequency phase 1660, and another high frequency phase 1670. (However, no frequency change is required, and in some applications, the entire operation may be performed at a single operating frequency). The high frequency phase 1650 may include a nominal power transfer mode 1651. This state may follow one of the scenarios described above. In this initial high frequency phase 1650, multiple feedback packets 1651a-1651c may be transmitted by the PRx, where when no feedback packet is received or an invalid feedback packet is received (indicating that the PRx device has been removed from the PTx), the PTx ends the power transfer mode at 1651d. Then, when the PRx device appears (or appears again as the case may be), the low frequency phase 1660 may begin to be divided into a ping phase 1661 (with associated messaging 1661a), an identification phase 1662 (with associated messaging 1662a), and a negotiation phase 1663 with messaging 1663a-1663d. These messages may include a PTx identifying itself (1663a) and a PRx transmit chime message 1663b, a mode selection message 1663c (selecting a gain measurement mode, as described above), and a frequency transition message 1663d. The PTx device may then remove power, initiating an intermediate phase 1665 during which the PRx may optionally perform a scan for NFC (near field communication devices) 1665a. Because the device will remain in nominal (higher power mode), the PTx does not need to hide to transition its input voltage.

[0077] This begins a subsequent high frequency phase 1670, which may be divided into a ping phase 1671 (with associated messaging 1671a), an identification phase 1672 (with associated messaging 1672a), and a negotiation phase 1673 with messaging 1673a-1673d. These messages may include PTx identifying itself (1673a) and transmitting its capabilities 1673b (e.g., indicating the ability to charge at a higher power level). Similarly, PRx may transmit its capabilities via message 1673c. PTx may then transmit a message 1673d confirming entry into the gain measurement mode. In the gain management phase 1674, multiple PRx messages 1674a may be transmitted to allow PTx to calculate gain. Thereafter, PRx may transmit a mode change request message 1674b (e.g., requesting a transition to the nominal power transfer mode as described above), which PTx may acknowledge (1674c). This begins a nominal power transfer mode 1675, which may include multiple feedback packets 1675a from PRx to PTx. When the PRx battery approaches full charge (eg, at 90% state of charge), PRx may transmit a mode change request message to transition to a low power / light load mode as described above.

[0078] Fig.17The messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx that charges a PRx device at a low state of charge, then removes the PRx device and replaces it with a device having a high state of charge, is shown in block form. This may occur, for example, in the event that a user swaps devices. The entire time sequence may be divided into a high frequency phase 1750, a subsequent low frequency phase 1760, and another high frequency phase 1770. (However, no frequency change is required, and in some applications, the entire operation may be performed at a single operating frequency). The high frequency phase 1750 may include a nominal power transfer mode 1751. This state may follow one of the scenarios described above. In this initial high frequency phase 1750, multiple feedback packets 1751a-1751c may be transmitted by the PRx, wherein when no feedback packet is received or an invalid feedback packet is received (indicating that the PRx device has been removed from the PTx), the PTx ends the power transfer mode at 1751d. Then, when the PRx device appears (or appears again as the case may be), the low frequency phase 1760 may begin to be divided into a ping phase 1761 (with associated messaging 1761a), an identification phase 1762 (with associated messaging 1762a), and a negotiation phase 1763 with messaging 1763a-1763d. These messages may include PTx identifying itself (1763a) and PRx transmitting chime messages 1763b, mode selection messages 1763c (selecting low power / light load mode, as described above), and frequency transition messages 1763d. The PTx device may then remove power, initiating an intermediate phase 1765 during which PRx may optionally perform a scan for NFC (near field communication devices) 1765a. Because the device will transition to low power / light load mode, PTx may transition its input adapter to a lower voltage.

[0079] This begins a high frequency phase 1770, which may be divided into a ping phase 1771 (with associated messaging 1771a), an identification phase 1772 (with associated messaging 1772a), and a negotiation phase 1773 with messaging 1773a-1773d. These messages may include the PTx identifying itself (1773a) and transmitting its capabilities 1773b (e.g., indicating the ability to charge at a higher power level). Similarly, the PRx may transmit its capabilities via message 1773c. The PTx may then transmit a message 1773d confirming entry into the requested gain management mode. In the low power / light load power transfer mode 1774, multiple PRx messages 1774a-1774c may serve as normal feedback for PTx control.

[0080] Fig.18The messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx that charges a PRx device in a high charge state, followed by removal of the PRx device and replacement of the PRx device with a non-profile-aware device, is shown in block form. The entire time sequence may be divided into a high frequency phase 1850, a subsequent low frequency phase 1860, and another high frequency phase 1870. (However, no frequency change is required, and in some applications, the entire operation may be performed at a single operating frequency). The high frequency phase 1850 may include a power transfer mode in a low power / light load mode 1851. This state may follow one of the scenarios described above. In this initial high frequency phase 1850, a plurality of feedback packets 1851a-1851c may be transmitted by the PRx, wherein when no feedback packet is received or an invalid feedback packet is received (indicating that the PRx device has been removed from the PTx), the PTx ends the power transfer mode at 1851d. Then, when a PRx device appears (which is not profile-aware), a low frequency phase 1860 may begin to be divided into a ping phase 1861 (with associated messaging 1861a), an identification phase 1862 (with associated messaging 1862a), and a negotiation phase 1863 with messaging 1863a-1863c. These messages may include PTx identifying itself (1863a) and PRx transmitting chime messages 1863b and frequency transition messages 1863c, but no mode selection messages because the new device is profile-unaware. The PTx device may then remove power, initiating an intermediate phase 1865 during which PRx may optionally perform a scan for NFC (near field communication devices) 1865a. As in the various examples discussed above, because the device will be in nominal (higher power mode), the PTx may transition the input voltage to a higher input voltage.

[0081] This begins a subsequent high frequency phase 1870 , which may be divided into a verification phase 1871 and an identification phase 1872 , which may conform to a version of the wireless power transfer standard that does not include a profile, since the new PRx device is not profile-aware.

[0082] Fig.19The messaging associated with a profile-capable PTx and PRx that charges a PRx device in a high charge state, followed by the removal of the PRx device and replacement of the PRx device with a non-profile-aware device that does not support high-frequency operation, is shown in block form. The entire time sequence may be divided into a high-frequency phase 1950, a subsequent low-frequency phase 1960, and another low-frequency phase 1970. (However, no frequency change is required, and in some applications, the entire operation may be performed at a single operating frequency). The high-frequency phase 1950 may include a power transfer mode in a low power / light load mode 1951. This state may follow one of the scenarios described above. In this initial high-frequency phase 1950, a plurality of feedback packets 1951a-1951c may be transmitted by the PRx, wherein when no feedback packet is received or an invalid feedback packet is received (indicating that the PRx device has been removed from the PTx), the PTx ends the power transfer mode at 1951d. Then, when a PRx device is present (which is not profile-aware), a low-frequency phase 1960 may begin to be divided into a ping phase 1961 (with associated messaging 1961a) and an identification phase 1962 (with associated messaging 1962a). The PTx device may then remove power, initiating an intermediate phase 1965 during which an adapter transition may (but need not) occur. Low-frequency operation may then resume in a low-frequency mode 1970 with additional ping phases 1971 and identification phases 1972, respectively. In these cases, power transfer may occur according to a baseline power profile without the need for multi-frequency operation or mode-aware enhancements as described herein.

[0083] The scenarios described above are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to be exhaustive of all the ways in which a wireless power transmission device can have multiple different operating modes and communicate them to a paired device. For given applications, systems, and operating conditions, various permutations, combinations, and extensions of the above arrangements may also be used appropriately.

[0084] An exemplary embodiment of a wireless power transmission system power profile for state synchronization between a wireless power transmitter (PTx) and a wireless power receiver (PRx) is described above. Such a system can be used in a variety of applications, but it can be particularly advantageous when used in conjunction with a wireless power transmission system for personal electronic devices, such as mobile computing devices (e.g., laptops, tablet computers, smart phones, etc.) and their accessories (e.g., wireless headphones, styluses and other input devices, etc.) and wireless charging accessories (e.g., charging pads, pads, stands, etc.). Although many specific features and various embodiments have been described, it should be understood that the various features and embodiments may be combined in various arrangements in a specific implementation unless otherwise indicated to be mutually exclusive. Therefore, the various embodiments described above are provided by way of example only and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Various modifications and changes may be made to the principles and embodiments herein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure and without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0085] The foregoing describes an exemplary embodiment of a wireless power transmission system capable of sending certain information between a PTx and a PRx in the system. The present disclosure contemplates that this information transfer improves the ability of devices to provide wireless power to each other in an efficient manner to facilitate battery charging, such as by sharing the power handling capabilities of the devices with each other. Entities implementing the present technology should be careful to ensure compliance with established privacy policies and / or privacy practices to the extent that any sensitive information is used in a particular implementation. In particular, such entities will be expected to implement and consistently apply privacy practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or government requirements for maintaining user privacy. Implementers should inform users where personally identifiable information is expected to be sent in the wireless power transmission system, and allow users to "opt-in" or "opt-out" participation. For example, if a power transmitter is configured to poll for sensitive information from a power receiver, such information may be presented to the user when the user places the device onto the power transmitter.

[0086] Once the data is no longer needed, risks can be minimized by limiting the collection of data and deleting the data. In addition, and when applicable, data de-identification can be used to protect the privacy of users. For example, a device identifier can be partially masked to convey the power characteristics of the device without uniquely identifying the device. De-identification can be facilitated by removing identifiers, controlling the amount or specificity of stored data (e.g., collecting location data at a city level rather than an address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data across users), and / or other methods such as differential privacy when appropriate. Robust encryption can also be used to reduce the possibility of communications between inductively coupled devices being spoofed.

Claims

1. A wireless power transmitter, comprising: Wireless power transfer coil; an inverter that receives an input DC voltage and outputs an AC voltage to the wireless power transmission coil to deliver power to a wireless power receiver; as well as a communication module configured to communicate with the wireless power receiver by sending and receiving messages requesting, selecting, or confirming one of a plurality of power profiles of the wireless power transmitter, the plurality of power profiles corresponding to a gain measurement mode, a nominal mode delivering a relatively higher power level, and a light load mode delivering a relatively lower power level.

2. The wireless power transmitter according to claim 1, further configured to: set the operation mode of the wireless power transmitter in response to a message received from the wireless power receiver selecting a power profile corresponding to the operation mode of the wireless power transmitter.

3. The wireless power transmitter according to claim 2 is further configured to: in response to a message received from the wireless power receiver selecting a power profile corresponding to the operating mode, confirm the set operating mode by sending a confirmation message to the wireless power receiver.

4. The wireless power transmitter according to claim 2 is further configured to request a temporary interruption of wireless power transmission if the message received from the wireless power receiver selecting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode selects an operating mode in which the input DC voltage is expected to be changed. 5 . The wireless power transmitter according to claim 4 , further configured to temporarily interrupt the wireless power transmission in response to a message requesting temporary interruption of the wireless power transmission received from the wireless power receiver. 6 . The wireless power transmitter of claim 1 , further configured to request the operation mode by transmitting a message to the wireless power receiver requesting a power profile corresponding to the operation mode of the wireless power transmitter. 7 . The wireless power transmitter of claim 6 , wherein the wireless power transmitter transmits a message requesting a light load profile in response to a high temperature condition of the wireless power transmitter.

8. A wireless power receiver, comprising: Wireless power transfer coil; a rectifier receiving an input AC voltage induced in the wireless power transmission coil by a wireless power transmitter and outputting a DC voltage; as well as a communication module configured to communicate with the wireless power transmitter by sending and receiving messages requesting, selecting, or confirming one of a plurality of power profiles of the wireless power transmitter, the plurality of power profiles corresponding to a gain measurement mode, a nominal mode delivering a relatively higher power level, and a light load mode delivering a relatively lower power level.

9. The wireless power receiver of claim 8, further configured to transmit a message selecting an operating mode of the wireless power transmitter in response to a message received from the wireless power transmitter requesting a power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter.

10. The wireless power receiver of claim 8, further configured to transmit a message selecting a power profile corresponding to an operating mode of the wireless power transmitter based at least in part on a charge state of a battery in the wireless power receiver.

11. The wireless power receiver according to claim 10, wherein: If the state of charge of the battery is high, the wireless power receiver transmits a message selecting a power profile corresponding to the light load mode.

12. The wireless power receiver according to claim 10, wherein: If the state of charge of the battery is low, the wireless power receiver transmits a message selecting a power profile corresponding to the nominal mode.

13. A method performed by a wireless power transmitter, the method comprising: receiving, from a wireless power receiver, a message selecting a power profile corresponding to an operating mode of the wireless power transmitter; setting the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter in response to the received message; as well as transmitting a message confirming the power profile to the wireless power receiver; Wherein the power profile is selected from the group consisting of a gain measurement mode profile, a low power mode profile and a nominal mode profile.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising: Prior to receiving the message selecting the power profile corresponding to the operation mode of the wireless power transmitter from the wireless power receiver, transmitting a message requesting the power profile corresponding to the operation mode of the wireless power transmitter to the wireless power receiver.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein transmitting a message to the wireless power receiver requesting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter comprises requesting the low power mode profile in response to a high temperature condition of the wireless power transmitter.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein transmitting a message to the wireless power receiver requesting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter comprises requesting a temporary interruption of wireless power transmission to allow the wireless power transmitter to change an input voltage of the wireless power transmitter.

17. A method performed by a wireless power receiver, the method comprising: transmitting a message to a wireless power transmitter selecting a power profile corresponding to an operating mode of the wireless power transmitter; receiving a message from the wireless power transmitter confirming the power profile; Wherein the power profile is selected from the group consisting of a gain measurement mode profile, a low power mode profile and a nominal mode profile.

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising: Prior to transmitting the message selecting the power profile corresponding to the operation mode of the wireless power transmitter to the wireless power transmitter, a message requesting the power profile corresponding to the operation mode of the wireless power transmitter is received from the wireless power transmitter.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein transmitting a message to the wireless power transmitter selecting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter comprises selecting the low power mode profile in response to a high charge state of a battery of the wireless power receiver.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein transmitting a message to the wireless power transmitter selecting the power profile corresponding to the operating mode of the wireless power transmitter comprises selecting the nominal mode profile in response to a low charge state of a battery of the wireless power receiver.

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