Conditional standby state in wireless power system

Abstract

This disclosure provides systems, methods, and apparatus for conditional standby states in a wireless power system. The power receiver may communicate a request message to the power transmitter to initiate a conditional standby state. During a conditional standby state, the power receiver may temporarily disconnect communication, power collection, or other operations for a period of time referred to as sleep time. Upon expiration of the sleep time, the power transmitter may wake up the power receiver such that the power receiver may check the condition of the appliance. Based on the condition, the power receiver may request a transition to a power supply state for an on action, or may request an additional conditional standby state for an off action. The wireless power system may use a conditional standby state to enable conditional on or off actions of the appliance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to wireless power, and in some aspects to state transitions in wireless power systems based on conditional ON and OFF actions of electrical appliances. Background Technology

[0002] A wireless power system includes a power transmitter (PTx) and a power receiver (PRx). Inductive coupling enables wireless power transfer between the primary coil of the power transmitter and the secondary coil of the power receiver. During the operation of the wireless power system, the primary coil of the power transmitter generates an electromagnetic field. When the secondary coil of the power receiver is present in the electromagnetic field, the field induces a voltage in the secondary coil. The power receiver can use the induced voltage (either directly or via a rectifier) ​​to power a load. Example loads might include motors, heating elements, electronic devices, or power storage devices, etc. In an example kitchen environment, a magnetic power source (such as a kitchen stove) might include one or more power transmitters. Appliances (such as cordless kitchen appliances) might include a power receiver and a load. The appliance can be placed on a power transmitter so that the appliance's power receiver can receive wireless power from the magnetic power source.

[0003] Some appliances operate based on user interaction to control their on / off states. For example, some blenders or juicers may be designed with buttons or other user interfaces for manual control to activate the appliance when the user intends to use it. This ensures that electricity is not wasted and that the appliance operates only when needed. Other appliances may be designed to start or stop automatically to reduce user interaction. For example, appliances such as rice cookers, kettles, and coffee makers may be designed to automatically start or stop based on schedules or temperature standards to heat food or liquid contents. Current technology for managing the automatic on / off operation of appliances requires power transmitters and receivers to consume power during the off-peak periods of operation. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The systems, methods, and apparatuses disclosed herein each have several innovative aspects, and no single aspect is solely responsible for the intended properties disclosed herein.

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure can be implemented as a method performed by a power transmitter in a wireless power system. The method includes communicating with a power receiver of the device. The method includes transitioning to a standby state based on a first request from the power receiver to enter a conditional standby state. The method includes waking up the power receiver after a sleep time of the conditional standby state has expired. The method includes receiving one or more communications from the power receiver after waking it up. The method includes transitioning to a power supply state when the one or more communications include a power request message from the power receiver.

[0006] Another aspect of this disclosure can be implemented as a method performed by a power receiver for use in a wireless power system. The method includes transmitting a first request to a power transmitter to transition to a conditional standby state. The method includes receiving bias power from the power transmitter after a sleep time of the conditional standby state has expired. The method includes transmitting one or more communications to the power transmitter after receiving the bias power. The one or more communications are configured to cause the power transmitter to either transition to a power-on state or return to the conditional standby state.

[0007] Details of one or more implementations of the subject matter described in this disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, aspects, and advantages will become clear from the description, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The same reference numbers and names in each drawing indicate the same elements. Note that relative dimensions in the drawings may not be drawn to scale.

[0009] Figure 1 An illustration of an example wireless power transmission system is shown.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of an example wireless power system.

[0011] Figure 3 The diagram illustrates the state of a wireless power system.

[0012] Figure 4 An example temperature graph is illustrated in relation to an electrical appliance that may implement various aspects of this disclosure.

[0013] Figure 5 An example power receiver according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated.

[0014] Figure 6 The illustration shows a first example wake-up sequence for a wireless power system.

[0015] Figure 7The illustration shows a second example wake-up sequence for a wireless power system.

[0016] Figure 8 The timing diagrams and associated operations of the wireless power system under various states are illustrated.

[0017] Figure 9 A conceptual diagram depicting example messages based on some aspects of this disclosure is provided.

[0018] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating an example operation of a power transmitter according to some aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0019] Figure 11 A flowchart illustrating an example operation of a power receiver according to some aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0020] Figure 12 A block diagram of an example device for use in a wireless power system is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0021] For the purpose of describing the innovative aspects of this disclosure, the following description is directed to certain implementations. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the teachings herein can be applied in a variety of different ways. The described implementations can be implemented with any component, apparatus, system, or method for transmitting or receiving wireless power.

[0022] Wireless power systems include power transmitters (PTx) and power receivers (PRx). A power transmitter may also be referred to as a wireless power transmitting device. A power receiver may also be referred to as a wireless power receiving device. Some examples of this disclosure are based on a kitchen environment. For example, the power transmitter may be part of a magnetic power source such as a stovetop, countertop, or cooktop. In some implementations, the power transmitter may include a surface-mounted primary coil, an integrated primary coil, a countertop-mounted primary coil, or a primary coil embedded in or fabricated in a surface where the power receiver can be placed. The power receiver includes a secondary coil configured to wirelessly receive power via inductive coupling with the primary coil of the power transmitter. The power receiver may be part of a cordless appliance such as a cordless blender, kettle, toaster, or cooking container. Although the examples of this disclosure relate to wireless power systems in a kitchen environment, the disclosed technology can be used with other types of wireless power systems or in other types of environments.

[0023] Some appliances may be designed to automatically start or stop based on a schedule or temperature standard. For example, an appliance may receive wireless power to perform a heating operation (such as cooking food or boiling liquids). In some cases, it is desirable for an appliance to automatically start at a specific time to perform a heating operation according to the end-user's schedule. An appliance may be configured to turn off once the heating operation is complete. In some cases, it is desirable for an appliance to automatically start for a keep-warm or reheat operation, or to maintain a target temperature. Current technology for managing the automatic on / off operation of appliances is based on control messages from the appliance to the power transmitter. For example, an appliance may remain in an operational connected state when it is not receiving wireless power for a heating or reheating operation.

[0024] In the connected state, the appliance consumes power from the power transmitter to maintain periodic communication, controller operation, and sensor measurements. Therefore, the appliance continues to consume power during off-peak periods of operation. In some implementations, the appliance uses bias power collected from near-field communication (NFC) signals from the power transmitter's communication interface to maintain the connected state and sensor measurements during off-peak periods of operation. Thus, the appliance relies on power collected from the power transmitter's NFC, which prevents the power transmitter and receiver from entering standby mode. As a result, power is consumed even during inactive periods, leading to inefficiency and unnecessary power use. In some cases, this power use may violate standby power requirements stipulated by regulatory agencies. Wireless power systems can be improved by enabling the power transmitter and receiver to enter a conditional standby state during inactive periods.

[0025] This disclosure provides systems, methods, and apparatus for conditional standby in wireless power systems. Conditional standby may also be referred to as "standby with wake-up," "temporary standby," "sleep state," "dormancy," or simply "standby state" for brevity. A power receiver can initiate conditional standby using a request message to a power transmitter. For example, the power receiver can request conditional standby based on a schedule or temperature standard to achieve a conditional shutdown period. During conditional standby, the power transmitter and power receiver can temporarily disconnect from communication, power collection, or other operations. Conditional standby can result in low or no power consumption for a period of time referred to as sleep time. Other terms for sleep time may include standby time, conditional standby time, conditional sleep time, dormancy period, or other terms referring to the time during which the power transmitter temporarily ceases communication with the power receiver and the power receiver temporarily ceases consuming power provided by the power transmitter. Conditional standby may also be referred to as temporary standby, sleep state, dormancy, or other terms referring to the state of operation during sleep time.

[0026] Various aspects of this disclosure enable state transitions in wireless power systems based on conditional on / off actions of appliances. A power receiver can request a conditional standby state for a sleep period associated with an appliance's off action. Upon expiration of the sleep period, a power transmitter can wake the power receiver. The power receiver can determine whether conditions (such as scheduling or a target temperature) require an on-state operation for the appliance. In some implementations, the conditional standby state can occur before the first instance of a power-on state. Therefore, the power receiver can be placed on the power transmitter and a conditional standby state can be implemented to minimize power consumption and communication until conditions (such as scheduling) for automatically initiating an on-state action are met. In some implementations, the conditional standby state can occur between instances of a power-on state. For example, the appliance can be configured to maintain a target temperature after an initial heating operation. The appliance may alternate between on and off actions to maintain the target temperature. During an off action, the conditional standby state can reduce communication and power consumption within the wireless power system.

[0027] In some aspects, the power receiver can request a conditional standby state during the off-state period. After the sleep time for each instance of the conditional standby state expires, the power transmitter can wake the power receiver. Waking the power receiver may involve establishing communication and transmitting communication signals from which the power receiver can collect bias power to operate sensors and controllers. The collected bias power may be sufficient for the power receiver to determine whether to initiate an on-state action (which may be referred to as a conditional on-state action). The power receiver can initiate a conditional on-state action based on one or more criteria. Therefore, the power receiver can periodically check the condition associated with one or more criteria. Simultaneously, the power receiver can minimize operation and power consumption during the sleep time between periodic checks of the condition's condition. One or more criteria may be based on conditions such as scheduling or the device temperature cooling below a temperature threshold. If one or more criteria are not met, the power receiver can request another conditional standby state and re-check the conditions the next time the power transmitter wakes the power receiver. Alternatively, if one or more criteria are met, the power receiver can request a power-on state to initiate an on-state action.

[0028] Specific implementations of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented to obtain one or more of the following potential advantages. The techniques of this disclosure can lead to improved power efficiency, reduced standby power consumption, optimized operating states, seamless reheating processes, dynamic scheduling, and enhanced control over appliances that support conditional on / off actions. By implementing "wake-up" sequences and negotiating sleep times, wireless power systems can optimize power consumption, allowing power transmitters and appliances to enter a conditional standby state during periods of inactivity.

[0029] Figure 1 An illustration of an example wireless power transmission system 100 is shown. The wireless power transmission system may include a power transmitter 102 and a power receiver 104. The power transmitter 102 includes a primary coil 110. When the primary coil 110 transmits wireless power 114, it creates a magnetic field that induces a voltage in a secondary coil 120 of the power receiver 104. The power receiver 104 may include a secondary coil 120 configured to receive wireless power 114. Component references for the power transmitter 102 and the power receiver 104 are provided. Figure 2 To describe in more detail.

[0030] continue Figure 1 The power receiver 104 can be associated with an appliance (such as a cordless kitchen appliance, etc.) that is intended to operate on a wireless power transmission surface (such as a kitchen countertop, stove, or cooktop) configured with one or more primary coils. Figure 1Examples 140 of appliances that can be used with power transmitter 102 are shown. For example, the appliance could be a kettle 142, a slow cooker 144, or a blender 146. Other types of appliances that may include a power receiver could include pots, rice cookers, coffee makers, toasters, grills, frying pans, electric cookers, any type of appliance configured to heat liquids or food, etc. Power transmitter 102 can be included in kitchen equipment such as a stove or cooktop. For example, in some implementations, a cooktop may include several locations for placing objects. At least one of the locations may include power transmitter 102 supporting wireless power transmission to the appliance including power receiver 104. In some implementations, power transmitter 102 may be integrated into a cooktop that is inherently portable. For example, a portable cooktop may include a battery or be able to power power transmitter 102 using an external power source and may be suitable for camping.

[0031] Some appliances (such as blender 146) may be configured to start based solely on user interaction, allowing the end user to manually control when the appliance is used. Other appliances may implement conditional on / off actions. For example, kettle 142 may be configured to automatically start at a scheduled start time and automatically turn off once heating is complete. In another example, slow cooker 144 may be configured to start to heat to a first temperature and then turn off when the first temperature is reached. In some examples, slow cooker 144 (or other appliances) may be configured to “keep warm,” maintain, or reheat at a target temperature. Slow cooker 144 may be configured to automatically turn off for a period of time when the current temperature is above the target temperature and automatically start when the current temperature is at or below the target temperature. Such conditional on / off actions can be implemented to minimize user interaction. It is also desirable to minimize power consumption during the periods associated with the off actions, such as the cooling period between the appliance's heating period (on action). This disclosure describes techniques for achieving conditional standby states that can reduce or eliminate power consumption of electrical appliances during shutdown operations, while also enabling the appliances to periodically check the condition to determine whether to initiate a power-on operation.

[0032] Figure 2This is a block diagram of an example wireless power system 200. The example wireless power system 200 includes a power transmitter 102 and a power receiver 104. The power transmitter 102 includes a primary coil 110 and a PTx controller 204. The primary coil 110 may be associated with power transmitter circuitry 202 (sometimes referred to as a power signal generator, driver circuitry, or driver). The primary coil 110 may be a wound coil that transmits wireless power (which may also be referred to as wireless energy). The primary coil 110 may use an induced magnetic field or a resonant magnetic field to transmit wireless energy. Power transmitter circuitry 202 may include components (not shown) for preparing wireless power. For example, power transmitter circuitry 202 may include one or more switches, drivers, series capacitors, rectifiers, inverters, or other components. In some implementations, power transmitter circuitry 202, PTx controller 204, and other components (not shown) may be collectively referred to as power transmitter unit 206. Some or all of power transmitter unit 206 may be implemented as an integrated circuit (IC) implementing the features of this disclosure. The PTx controller 204 can be implemented as a microcontroller, a special-purpose processor, an integrated circuit, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any other suitable electronic device.

[0033] Power source 208 supplies power to power transmitter unit 206. In some implementations, power source 208 can convert alternating current (AC) power to direct current (DC) power. For example, power source 208 may include a converter that receives AC power from an external power supply and converts the AC power into DC power used by power transmitter circuit 202. Alternatively, or additionally, components of power transmitter circuit 202 (such as an inverter) can convert DC power to AC power. Power source 208 may be integrated as part of power transmitter 102 or may be external to power transmitter 102. In some implementations, power transmitter 102 causes power source 208 to regulate the DC output voltage of power source 208. For example, PTx controller 204 may set the DC voltage of power source 208 based on information received from power receiver 104, such as a value indicating requested power. Power transmitter 102 may receive power configuration information from power receiver 104 and use this information to set parameters, such as the DC output voltage of power source 208. The power transmitter 102 can receive power configuration information during various operating states, such as a discovery state or a power supply state. In some implementations, the power transmitter 102 includes a DC-DC converter (not shown) between the power source 208 and the power transmitter circuitry 202 to control a variable DC output voltage.

[0034] PTx controller 204 is connected to first communication interface 210. First communication interface 210 is connected to first communication coil 212. In some implementations, first communication interface 210 and first communication coil 212 may be collectively referred to as first communication unit 214. In some implementations, first communication unit 214 may support short-range radio frequency communication, such as Near Field Communication (NFC) or Bluetooth (BT). NFC is a technology that transmits data on a carrier frequency of 13.56 MHz. First communication unit 214 may also support any suitable communication protocol. First communication unit 214 may include modulation and demodulation circuitry for wireless communication via first communication coil 212. Alternatively, or additionally, PTx controller 204 may use frequency, amplitude, current, or voltage modulation of wireless power signals to communicate via an in-band communication link (not shown) including primary coil 110.

[0035] The power receiver 104 may include a secondary coil 120, a rectifier 216, a PRx controller 218, a second communication interface 222, a load controller 226, a load 220, and a memory (not shown). In some implementations, the load 220 may include a driver (not shown) for controlling at least one parameter of the load, such as charging current, speed, or torque. In some implementations, the rectifier 216 may be omitted, such as when the voltage induced in the secondary coil 120 can directly power the load 220. Although in Figure 2 Although not shown, a capacitor is present in series with the secondary coil 120. Although not shown, a load capacitor can be used after rectifier 216 to filter high-frequency components of the rectifier voltage. Although shown as different components, some components can be packaged or implemented in the same hardware. For example, in some implementations, PRx controller 218 and load controller 226 can be implemented as a single controller. PRx controller 218, load controller 226, or any combination thereof can be implemented as a microcontroller, a dedicated processor, an integrated circuit, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any other suitable electronic device.

[0036] The PTx controller 204 can detect the presence or proximity of the power receiver 104. This detection can occur during periodic pinging processes of the first communication interface 210. During the pinging process, when the power receiver 104 approaches the power transmitter 102, the first communication interface 210 can also supply power to the second communication interface 222. The second communication interface 222 can "wake up" and power on the PRx controller 218, and can send a reply signal to the first communication interface 210. A handshake process can occur before power transmission, during which the PTx controller 204 can receive identification and configuration data, as well as other information, from the power receiver 104. The PTx controller 204 can control the characteristics of the wireless power it provides to the power receiver 104 based on the configuration data.

[0037] PRx controller 218 is operatively coupled to rectifier 216 and a second communication interface 222. The second communication interface 222 may include modulation and demodulation circuitry for wireless communication via a second communication coil 224. Therefore, PRx controller 218 can wirelessly transmit feedback information to PTx controller 204 via the second communication interface 222 to the first communication interface 210 using short-range radio frequency communication such as NFC. Alternatively, or additionally, PRx controller 218 can use load modulation for communication via an in-band communication link (not shown) including a secondary coil 120.

[0038] Load controller 226 is operatively coupled to load 220 and a second communication interface 222. Load controller 226 can detect changes in load state, such as changes in charging current in a battery charging application. Load controller 226 can also determine a load voltage reference. Load controller 226 can also send the load voltage reference, load current, and any other suitable information to PRx controller 218 or the second communication interface 222 for transmission to power transmitter 102. During power supply, PRx controller 218 can additionally determine and provide feedback information indicating a measured load voltage available to load 220. In some feedback messages, the feedback information may include a reference voltage indicating the voltage required by load 220. In some feedback messages, the feedback information may indicate an error in the output voltage of load 220. In some feedback messages, the feedback information may include the power required by the load. Although PRx controller 218 and load controller 226 are shown separately, they can be included in the same component of power receiver 104.

[0039] Some electrical appliances are equipped with safety features that operate in conjunction with their operating state, such as a disconnect switch 228. For example, when the power receiver 104 is in a pre-power-on state (standby, detected, or connected), the disconnect switch 228 may remain in the open position to prevent current from flowing to the load 220. Before transitioning to a power-on state, the PRx controller 218 may move the disconnect switch 228 to the closed position to allow current to flow to the load 220. In emergency situations (such as excessive voltage or current), the PRx controller 218 may open the disconnect switch 228 to prevent damage to the load 220 or other components of the power receiver 104.

[0040] Figure 3 The diagram 300 illustrates the state diagram of a wireless power system. State diagram 300 illustrates the operational states in which the wireless power system can operate. Communication begins when a power receiver is placed within the operating volume on the interface surface of a power transmitter, with the purpose of configuring and controlling power transmission. Four operational states can exist associated with the wireless power system: standby state 302 (sometimes referred to as the ping phase), discovery state 304 (sometimes referred to as the identification phase), connected state 306, and power-on state 308 (sometimes referred to as the power transmission phase). Standby state 302, discovery state 304, and connected state 306 can be collectively referred to as the pre-power-on states. Technical specifications can define how the power transmitter and power receiver can transition between operational states. For example, a wireless power system typically begins in standby state 302 until the power transmitter detects the power receiver, thus moving it to discovery state 304. In discovery state 304, the power transmitter establishes communication and receives the power receiver's initial identification information and its static configuration data. In connected state 306 and powered state 308, the power transmitter and power receiver exchange information to agree on and adjust parameters related to wireless power transmission. When communication, power supply, or other activities cease, the system may, as needed, move to a reinitialization state (not shown) to reinitialize or return to a standby state. Each of these operating states is briefly described herein for reference.

[0041] In standby state 302, the power transmitter attempts to establish communication with the power receiver. During this operating state, the power receiver may be placed on the interface surface or may not be present. The power transmitter may attempt to communicate or detect the presence of the power receiver. For example, the power transmitter may use analog ping, out-of-band communication (such as NFC), digital ping, or any combination thereof to determine the presence of a compatible power receiver. Once the wireless power system determines the presence of a power receiver (e.g., by confirming NFC communication), the wireless power system can transition to discovery state 304.

[0042] In Discovery state 304, the power receiver can establish communication with the power transmitter and send static configuration information (such as identification and configuration information) to the power transmitter. For example, the power transmitter can retrieve the static configuration information from the power receiver via NFC communication. Both the power transmitter and the power receiver can use this information to verify that they both use compatible versions of the technical specifications or protocols for wireless power transmission. The power transmitter and the power receiver can exchange basic settings or communicate about their respective capabilities. From Discovery state 304, the wireless power system can transition to Connected state 306.

[0043] In the connected state 306, the power transmitter and power receiver can exchange additional communications to negotiate parameters governing the power supply state. For example, power negotiation can occur during connected state 306. After negotiating the parameters, the power transmitter can be ready to transmit wireless power and the power receiver can be ready to receive wireless power. The power transmitter can wait for a request or command from the power receiver before transitioning to power supply state 308. This can be useful, for example, when cordless appliances (such as blenders, toasters, mixers, or microwave ovens) are configured to wait for user interaction before use. The user can initiate power supply state 308 through the power receiver's user interface (such as an activation switch), which in turn is passed to the power transmitter to transition to power supply state 308.

[0044] As described in this disclosure, the wireless power system can implement a conditional standby state. The conditional standby state can be similar to standby state 302. However, the conditional standby state can be associated with a sleep period, allowing the power receiver, power transmitter, or both to hibernate during the sleep period. When the sleep period expires, the power transmitter can wake up the power receiver. Waking up the power receiver involves establishing communication from the power transmitter to the power receiver. For example, the power transmitter can initiate a ping via NFC. The NFC signal can provide bias power to operate the communication interface and the PRx controller (such as reference NFC). Figure 2 The second communication interface 222 and PRx controller 218 are described respectively.

[0045] In some implementations, waking up the power receiver may include moving to a discovery state 304 and / or a connected state 306. For example, the power transmitter may perform one or more operations associated with the discovery state 304 and / or the connected state 304. This one or more operations may include performing a foreign object detection (FOD) process to determine whether a foreign object has been introduced into the power transmitter's operating environment during sleep time.

[0046] In some implementations, if the power transmitter determines that the power receiver is present in the operating environment and no foreign object is detected via FOD, the power transmitter may omit the discovery state 304 or connected state 306 operations that would normally be performed when the power receiver is first placed on the power transmitter. For example, the power transmitter may determine that the power receiver is the same as one previously detected before the conditional standby state based on a matching device identifier or other marker. The power transmitter may omit authentication, one or more configuration messages, or power negotiation message exchanges, etc.

[0047] In some implementations, if the power transmitter determines that the power receiver has been moved, the power receiver is no longer present in the power transmitter's operating environment, or a foreign object has been introduced during conditional standby, the power transmitter may transition to a reinitialization state to reset or clear the previous configuration for the previously existing power receiver.

[0048] This disclosure includes several alternative implementations of information that enable conditional standby. For example, the power receiver may transmit information 312 during discovery state 304 to enable the power transmitter to determine whether the power receiver supports conditional standby. Information 312 may indicate the type of appliance. For example, information 312 may indicate that the power receiver is a "voluntary or reheating type" appliance. Alternatively, or additionally, information 312 may indicate the appliance's on / off profile, such as the conditions or criteria for the appliance's on or off operation, or the expected pattern of the on or off operation. In some implementations, the power receiver may transmit standby state control information 310 in a request to enter conditional standby. For example, standby state control information 310 may indicate the sleep time of the conditional standby, the expected cooling time, or a recheck period, or any other information that enables the power transmitter to determine the sleep time of the conditional standby.

[0049] Figure 4 An example temperature graph 406 is illustrated in association with an appliance that may implement aspects of this disclosure. Example temperature graph 406 may be an example of cooking and heat-keeping operations of an example appliance such as a rice cooker or slow cooker. Temperature graph 406 shows the temperature 402 of the appliance's container relative to time 404. Initially, the appliance may perform a heating operation to reach a first temperature (shown at temperature 402). For the heating operation, the appliance may activate a load (such as the appliance's heating element). For example, during the activation operation, the appliance may be cooking food for a period of time (such as a "cooking period"). After reaching the first temperature, the appliance may initiate a cooling time 410. Although in Figure 4The initial cooking temperature is displayed for a short period, but the appliance may maintain the temperature at or near the initial temperature for an extended period. At the end of the cooking period and before entering the cooling period, the appliance may store status information in its non-volatile memory to indicate that cooking is complete and may subsequently initiate a reheating operation (such as a "cooking complete and reheating required" status). The status information can be reset when the user initiates a new cooking action. When the power transmitter wakes the power receiver, the appliance may check the status information to determine whether to perform a reheating option (such as a "reheating required" status being true). If so, the appliance will alternate between the "cooling period" and the "reheating period" until a user action, such as a new cooking action, or the appliance's user switch is turned off. During the cooling time 410, the appliance may shut off the load.

[0050] The appliance may be configured to maintain the target temperature within the insulation range 414. After the cooling time 410, when the temperature reaches a temperature threshold (such as the reheat temperature 412), the appliance may activate a load to maintain the temperature of the container. In order to maintain the temperature within the insulation range 414, the appliance may alternate between on and off actions to occasionally heat and cool the container.

[0051] Figure 5 An example power receiver 500 according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. The example power receiver 500 may be used as a reference. Figure 1 or Figure 2 An example of a power receiver 104 is described. A power receiver 500 may be included in an appliance. The power receiver 500 may include a load 220, or the load 220 may be a component of an appliance that also includes the power receiver 500.

[0052] Power receiver 500 includes, as referenced Figure 2 The secondary coil 120, second communication coil 224, second communication interface 222, and PRx controller 218 are described. In some implementations, the power receiver 500 may or may not include a rectifier. Figure 2 (Not shown in the image). Figure 5 Also shown is a series capacitor 502 that can be coupled to one or more branches of the secondary coil 120. An example power receiver 500 includes a disconnect switch 228 connected in series with a load 220 in one branch of the secondary coil 120. Although the disconnect switch 228 is shown connected in series with the series capacitor 502, other configurations are possible.

[0053] The power receiver 500 includes a sensor 230 configured to measure the temperature of the container (not shown) of the appliance. Although the sensor 230 is described as a temperature sensor, it may be another type of sensor, such as a motion sensor, pressure sensor, humidity sensor, gas or chemical sensor, Hall effect sensor, condition sensor, or any other type of sensor that can provide input to the PRx controller 218 regarding the condition of the appliance.

[0054] A second communication interface 222 or other components (not shown) are configured to collect bias power 506 from a communication signal 508 received from a second communication coil 224. The bias power 506 can provide power to the second communication interface 222, the PRx controller 218, and the sensor 230. For example, the bias power 506 may be in the range of 100 to 500 milliwatts, or any amount of power sufficient to operate the second communication interface 222, the PRx controller 218, and the sensor 230. Using the bias power 506, the PRx controller 218 can obtain a measurement or condition signal from the sensor 230. The PRx controller 218 can determine whether the measurement or condition signal meets the conditions for activating the load 220. For example, the sensor 230 may indicate a temperature at or below a threshold (such as a reheating temperature 412) associated with activating the load 220 to reheat the container. If the conditions for activating the load 220 are met, the PRx controller 218 can cause the second communication interface 222 to transmit a power request to a power transmitter (not shown) to initiate power transfer. Otherwise, if the conditions are not met, the PRx controller 218 may maintain the shutdown operation of the load 220. In some implementations, the PRx controller 218 may send a request to the power transmitter to transition to a conditional standby state for a specified sleep time. When the sleep time expires, the power transmitter can wake up the power receiver 500 by transmitting a communication signal 508 to generate bias power 506 again, thereby allowing the PRx controller 218 to re-check the condition for the start-up operation.

[0055] Figure 6 and Figure 7 The illustration shows an example wake-up sequence and possible scenarios for a wireless power system. Figure 6 The diagram shows a first wake-up sequence 600 in which the sleep time expires when the power receiver detects a condition that triggers the opening of an electrical appliance. Figure 7 The second wake-up sequence 700 is shown when the conditions for activation are not met after the first sleep time expires and the wireless power system enters a conditional standby state for the second sleep time.

[0056] from Figure 6Initially, the first wake-up sequence 600 displays a temperature graph 602, which shows temperatures 604 over a span of time 606. At the beginning of temperature graph 602, the temperature rises to the heating period that occurred prior to the first time (shown as t1 608). At t1 608, the temperature reaches a first temperature 610 and the appliance enters a cooling period 614, during which the temperature gradually decreases. To minimize power consumption during the cooling period 614, the appliance may send a request to the power transmitter to enter a conditional standby state for a sleep time 612, which is associated with the expected duration of the cooling period 614. The appliance may store status information in its memory to indicate that cooking is complete and only a "reheating" operation is needed until a new user action either restarts cooking or turns off the appliance. In some implementations, the request explicitly indicates the sleep time 612. Alternatively, or additionally, the request may be a status transition request prompting a conditional standby state (such as a NEXT / standby message). A state transition request may include an indicator that the requested standby state is a conditional standby state associated with a sleep time. In some implementations, the sleep time may be pre-configured using an NDEF message during the discovery phase. Alternatively, or additionally, the sleep time may be calculated by the power transmitter based on configuration information or other flags associated with the power receiver. For example, the power transmitter may identify the type of appliance and select a sleep time 612 suitable for that type of appliance. In some implementations, the appliance may indicate that it is a first-type appliance associated with conditional on and off periods (such as a "voluntary or reheating type appliance").

[0057] When sleep time 612 expires, the power transmitter wakes up the appliance at a second time (shown as t2 618). The wireless power system enters a connected state, in which the power transmitter directionally transmits communication signals (such as NFC). The appliance collects bias power from the communication channel and wakes up. Figure 6 In this scenario, the container temperature is at a second temperature 620. The second temperature 620 may be a condition for reheating the container (such as a reheating temperature 412 or a temperature threshold). As a result of the temperature being at the second temperature 620, the appliance may initiate an on-state action or request the power transmitter to switch to a powered-on state to perform a reheating operation (shown during reheating period 616). The reheating operation involves transferring power from the power transmitter to the power receiver to operate the appliance's heating element. Therefore, reheating period 616 may correspond to a powered-on state. After the temperature reaches the first temperature 610, the appliance may transmit another request to initiate another conditional standby state (at time t3 622). For simplicity, the subsequent sleep period (after the request at t3 622) is not shown, but it operates in the same manner as sleep period 612.

[0058] Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the second wake-up sequence 700 of a wireless power system. Figure 6 Similarly, temperature graph 702 shows temperature 604 relative to time 606. At t1 608, the temperature has reached the first temperature 610 and the power receiver transmits a request to transition to a conditional standby state for the duration of sleep time 612. Figure 7 and Figure 6 The difference lies in the fact that the temperature at t2 618 (shown at temperature 704) is higher than the second temperature 620, and the appliance may not trigger the start-up action of the reheating operation. Instead, the power receiver may transmit another request to enter a conditional standby state for another instance of sleep time (shown as subsequent sleep time 712). In some implementations, subsequent sleep time 712 may have the same duration as the previous sleep time 612.

[0059] In some other implementations, the duration of the subsequent sleep time 712 may differ from the duration of the preceding sleep time 612. For example, the duration of the subsequent sleep time 712 may be extended (or shortened) based on the number of consecutive conditional standby periods. A potential technical advantage of adjusting the subsequent sleep time 712 is that the wireless power system can adapt to changes in the ambient temperature of a particular type of electrical appliance or in which the appliance is being used.

[0060] In some implementations, when the appliance sends a request for a subsequent sleep time 712, the appliance can explicitly indicate the duration of the subsequent sleep time 712. For example, the appliance may estimate the remaining time for the container to cool to the second temperature 620. The appliance can indicate the duration of the subsequent sleep time 712 such that the power transmitter will wake the power receiver when the temperature will meet the conditions for a reheating operation (and the corresponding power supply state for the start-up action). A potential technical advantage of estimating and explicitly indicating the subsequent sleep time 712 is that the power receiver can remain dormant for longer or shorter periods and minimize power consumption due to wake-up when the temperature conditions may not be met.

[0061] continue Figure 7 When the subsequent sleep time 712 expires, the power transmitter wakes up the appliance at the third time (denoted as t3 706). Figure 6 In the scenario described, at t3 706, the temperature 708 is lower than the second temperature 620. Because temperature 708 meets the conditions for reheating, the appliance may initiate an on-state action to perform a reheating operation (shown during reheating period 710). The reheating operation involves transmitting power from the power transmitter to the power receiver to operate the heating element of the appliance.

[0062] Figure 8A timing diagram 800 and associated operations are illustrated for various states of a wireless power system. Timing diagram 800 is used to describe the operation of power receiver 104 (PRx) and power transmitter 102 (PTx). Although described as the operation of power receiver 104 and power transmitter 102, it should be understood that the operations may be performed separately by the PTx controller and the PRx controller. Power receiver 104 and power transmitter 102 may follow the procedures outlined in reference [reference missing]. Figure 3 A state diagram describing the various operational states. Figure 8 The status of communication channel 802 (NFC) is also shown in relation to the described operation.

[0063] For the sake of brevity, Figure 8 The details of the initial instances of standby state 302, discovery state 304, and connected state 306 are not illustrated. During standby state 302, a user can place an appliance with a power receiver 104 into the interface space of the power transmitter 102. The power transmitter 102 detects the power receiver 104 and enters the discovery state. Discovery state 304 may include one or more discovery state messages 804a, 804b (such as identification and configuration, NDEF messages) and state transition request messages. The appliance uses the NDEF message to indicate that it is a "conditionally on / off type" appliance and may also transmit a sleep time. A "NEXT" message is a state transition request message indicating a request to transition to another state and a requested state state (e.g., a "NEXT / con" message is a state transition request message to transition to the connected state). The recipient of the state transition request message can respond using a response message ("RESP / ok"). The "RESP" message may indicate normal ("ok"), abnormal ("nok"), undefined ("nd"), or busy ("bsy"). In some implementations, the "RESP" message can be a response that indicates acknowledgment ("ack"), unacknowledgment ("nak"), or undefined ("nd").

[0064] For the sake of brevity, from Figure 8Details of the connected state 306 are omitted. The connected state 306 may include one or more connected state messages 806a (such as power negotiation messages). Additionally, the power transmitter 102 may perform a FOD process during the connected state 306 to determine the absence of foreign objects. At some point, the power receiver 104 transmits a power request message 810 initiating power transmission in a first instance of the power-on state 812. During the first instance of the power-on state 812, the power transmitter 102 transmits a wireless power signal 814 to the power receiver 104. Communication 808 may occur on the communication channel 802 during the pre-power-on state. Although shown as continuous communication 808, communication 808 may include inactive periods, such as during FOD or pre-power-on coupling factor measurement periods. During the power-on state, the communication channel 802 may use communication time slots 816a, 816b, 816c, and 816d at zero-crossing events of the wireless power signal 814. Not all zero-crossing events may be used to insert communication time slots.

[0065] exist Figure 8 In the example, when the initial heating operation is complete, the power receiver 104 may transmit a request message 818 to transition to a conditional standby state 832. During sleep time 820, no wireless power signal or communication may occur. Therefore, the power receiver 104 may be powered off and power consumption minimized. When sleep time 820 expires, the power transmitter 102 may activate communication channel 802 to transmit communication 822. Communication 822 provides power to power the power receiver 104 to collect bias power to activate its PRx controller, sensors, and communication interface.

[0066] In some implementations, power transmitters 102 and 104 may perform one or more pre-power-on operations 828, 830 associated with pre-power-on states 826, such as discovery and connected states. The power transmitter may verify that the appliance on the interface surface is the same as the appliance left before entering sleep time 820. For example, the power transmitter may compare appliance identification (ID) information with previous appliance ID information stored before the conditional standby state. If a new appliance is detected (meaning the appliance ID information is different from before the conditional standby state), the power transmitter will initiate a new discovery and connected state for the new appliance. Otherwise, if the same appliance is present, power transmitter 102 may continue with pre-power-on operations 828, 830. In some implementations, pre-power-on operations 828, 830 may include FOD (Foreign Object Determination) to determine that no foreign objects were introduced during sleep time 820. In cases where the appliance may have moved during sleep time 820, the power transmitter may also verify that the appliance alignment on the interface surface is within acceptable limits. In some implementations, pre-power-on operations 828, 830 may omit one or more operations that typically occur during the first instance of the pre-power-on state.

[0067] continue Figure 8 If the power receiver 104 determines that the appliance has been activated, then the power receiver 104 can transmit a power request message 834 for a second instance of power supply state 836, in which the power transmitter 102 transmits a wireless power signal 838 to the power receiver 104 for a reheating operation. Figure 8 In an alternative not shown, power receiver 104 may determine to maintain the on operation of the appliance. Instead of transmitting power request message 834, power receiver 104 may transmit a subsequent request (not shown) to initiate another conditional standby state for a subsequent sleep period.

[0068] although Figure 8The example scenario shown illustrates that the first instance of power-on state 812 occurs before the conditional standby state 832, but it is possible that the conditional standby state 832 occurs after the connected state 306 and before the first instance of power-on state 812. For example, a user might place an appliance on a power transmitter 102 with a delay timer that schedules the appliance's activation at a later time. The power receiver 104 and the power transmitter 102 can go through standby state 302, discovery state 304, and connected state 306. However, if the delay timer has not yet triggered the activation, the power receiver 104 can transmit a request message 818 to enter the conditional standby state 832 while in the connected state 306. A potential technical advantage of this feature is that the appliance can have a scheduled or delayed activation time. Examples of such appliances might be kettles, rice cookers, or slow cookers configured to start heating operations at a later time and possibly to start heating operations when the appliance is unattended, such that the heating operation is completed at a time selected by the end user.

[0069] Figure 9 A conceptual diagram illustrating example messages according to some aspects of this disclosure is provided. For example, message 902 may be sent from a power receiver to a power transmitter. In some implementations, message 902 may be part of another message, such as a configuration message. In some other implementations, message 902 may be transmitted during a connected state when the appliance is re-energized by the power transmitter after a cooling period. Message 902 may include a header 908 and a payload 904. In some implementations, the header 908 includes frame control information indicating that message 902 includes conditional standby state information. In some implementations, message 902 may include a preamble 906 indicating the start of message 902. The payload 904 includes one or more information elements 910, 912, and 914.

[0070] exist Figure 9 The diagram illustrates several example information elements 916. For example, conditional standby information might indicate that the appliance is a "voluntary or reheating type appliance" 918, an on / off profile 920, a nominal cooling / sleep time 922, a recheck period 924, or a temperature standard 926. This information may be transmitted as part of the initial configuration during the connected state or may be transmitted from the power receiver to the power transmitter as part of a request message to enter conditional standby state.

[0071] The information 918 indicating an appliance is the first of several types of appliances. It should be clear that the term "voluntary or reheating type appliance" is provided as an example for illustrative purposes, and other terms are possible, such as appliance type indicator, conditional on / off appliance, automated type appliance, or other terms.

[0072] Information such as the instruction to turn on / off profile 920, nominal cooling / sleep time 922, or recheck period 924 may help the power transmitter select or disable the function of selecting the duration of sleep time in conditional standby (such as enabling or disabling the device's reheating function).

[0073] In some implementations, the appliance may indicate a temperature standard 926, allowing the power transmitter to determine whether to activate the appliance's power-on action. For example, when the power transmitter wakes up the power receiver, the power receiver can transmit a temperature measurement from a sensor. The power transmitter (rather than the power receiver) can then compare the temperature measurement with temperature standard 926 to determine when to activate NFC and ensure the temperature standard satisfies the appliance's power-on requirement. A potential technical advantage of this approach is that the power receiver can reduce or potentially eliminate the PRx controller operations that would otherwise occur when the power transmitter wakes up the power receiver.

[0074] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating an example operation 1000 with a power transmitter according to some aspects of this disclosure is shown. For example, the flowchart might be performed by a power transmitter 102 described with reference to other figures of this disclosure. In block 1002, the power transmitter communicates with a power receiver of the device. In block 1004, the power transmitter transitions to a standby state based on a first request from the power receiver to enter a conditional standby state. In block 1006, the power transmitter wakes up the power receiver after the sleep time of the conditional standby state has expired. In block 1008, the power transmitter receives one or more communications from the power receiver after waking up the power receiver. In block 1010, the power transmitter transitions to a powered state when one or more communications include a power request message from the power receiver.

[0075] Figure 11A flowchart illustrating example operation 1100 of a power receiver according to some aspects of this disclosure is shown. For example, the flowchart might be performed by a power receiver 104 described with reference to other figures in this disclosure. In block 1102, the power receiver transmits a first request to the power transmitter to transition to a conditional standby state. In block 1104, the power receiver receives bias power from the power transmitter after the sleep time of the conditional standby state has expired. In block 1106, after receiving the bias power, the power receiver transmits one or more communications to the power transmitter, the one or more communications being configured to cause the power transmitter to either transition to a powered state or return to the conditional standby state.

[0076] Figure 12 A block diagram of an example apparatus for use in a wireless power system is illustrated. In some implementations, apparatus 1200 may be the wireless power transmission apparatus described herein (such as power transmitter 102). Apparatus 1200 may include processor 1202 (which may include multiple processors, multiple cores, multiple nodes, or implement multithreading, etc.). Apparatus 1200 may also include memory 1204. Memory 1204 may be system memory, or any one or more possible implementations of the computer-readable media described herein. Apparatus 1200 may also include bus 1206 (such as PCI, ISA, PCI-Express, HyperTransport®, InfiniBand®, NuBus®, AHB, AXI, etc.).

[0077] Device 1200 may include one or more controllers 1208 (such as PTx controllers). In some implementations, controller 1208 may be distributed within processor 1202, memory 1204, and bus 1206. Controller 1208 may perform some or all of the operations described herein. For example, controller 1208 may implement reference... Figures 1 to 10 The process described by any one of them or any combination thereof.

[0078] Memory 1204 may include computer instructions executable by processor 1202 to implement the functions described herein. Any of these functions may be implemented, partially or entirely, in hardware or on processor 1202. For example, the functions may be implemented using application-specific integrated circuits, in logic implemented in processor 1202, in a coprocessor on a peripheral device or card, etc. Additionally, the implementation may include fewer or more... Figure 12 No additional components are shown in the diagram. Processor 1202, memory 1204, and controller 1208 may be coupled to bus 1206. Although shown as coupled to bus 1206, memory 1204 may be coupled to either processor 1202 or controller 1208.

[0079] The device 1200 also includes a conditional standby mode module 1210. The conditional standby mode module 1210 may implement a reference... Figures 1 to 7 Any of the operations described. For example, the conditional standby state module 1210 may process a request message from the power receiver requesting entry into a conditional standby state. The conditional standby state module 1210 may implement a timer or counter to determine when the sleep time expires. The conditional standby state module 1210 may initiate one or more operations to wake up the power receiver after the sleep time expires.

[0080] Figures 1 to 12 The operations described herein are examples intended to aid in understanding example implementations and should not be used to limit potential implementations or the scope of the claims. Some implementations may perform additional operations, fewer operations, parallel or different orders of operations, and perform some operations differently.

[0081] The foregoing disclosure provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the aspects to the precise form of the disclosure. Modifications and variations may be made based on the foregoing disclosure, or may be derived from practice in the aspects. While aspects of this disclosure have been described from the perspective of various examples, any combination of aspects from any of the examples is also within the scope of this disclosure. The examples in this disclosure are provided for illustrative purposes. Alternatively, or in addition to the other examples described herein, examples include any combination of the following implementation options (identified as clauses for reference).

[0082] Terms and Conditions

[0083] Clause 1. A method performed by a power transmitter of a wireless power system, comprising: communicating with a power receiver of the device; transitioning to a standby state based on a first request from the power receiver to enter a conditional standby state; waking up the power receiver after a sleep time of the conditional standby state has expired; receiving one or more communications from the power receiver after waking up the power receiver; and transitioning to a power supply state when the one or more communications include a power request message from the power receiver.

[0084] Clause 2. The method of Clause 1 further includes, when the one or more communications include a second request to transition to a conditional standby state: avoiding transition to a power-on state; and returning to the conditional standby state based on the second request.

[0085] Clause 3. The method of Clause 2, wherein returning to a conditional standby state comprises: transitioning to a standby state for a subsequent duration of sleep time; and waking up the power receiver after the subsequent duration of sleep time has expired.

[0086] Clause 4. The method of Clause 2, wherein the second request indicates a new sleep duration, and wherein returning to a conditional standby state comprises: transitioning to a standby state for the new sleep duration; and waking the power receiver after the new sleep duration has expired.

[0087] Clause 5. The method of any one of Clauses 1 to 4 further includes: receiving from the power receiver an indication that the power receiver is in a first type of appliance, the first type of appliance implementing sleep time between instances of power supply state.

[0088] Clause 6. The method of Clause 5, wherein receiving the indication includes receiving a Near Field Communication (NFC) Data Exchange Format (NDEF) message, the Near Field Communication (NFC) Data Exchange Format (NDEF) message including a field having the indication.

[0089] Clause 7. The method of any one of Clauses 1 to 6, wherein the first request indicates a sleep time.

[0090] Clause 8. The method of any one of Clauses 1 to 6, wherein the first request indicates an expected cooling time following a heating operation of the appliance, the method further comprising: calculating a sleep time of a conditional standby state based at least in part on the expected cooling time.

[0091] Clause 9. The method of any one of Clauses 1 to 8, wherein the first request indicates a target temperature for the reheating operation of the appliance, the method further comprising: switching to a power supply state when one or more communications include a temperature measurement below the target temperature.

[0092] Clause 10. The method of any one of Clauses 1 to 9 further includes: negotiating a sleep time with the power receiver via one or more messages prior to receiving the first request to enter a conditional standby state.

[0093] Clause 11. The method of Clause 10, wherein negotiating a sleep time comprises: receiving a first value from the power receiver, the first value indicating at least one of a nominal cooling time, a nominal sleep time, or a requested sleep time; transmitting a second value from the power transmitter to the power receiver, the second value indicating a proposed sleep time based on one or more parameters of the power transmitter; and setting the sleep time based at least in part on the first value and the second value.

[0094] Clause 12. The method of any one of Clauses 1 to 11, wherein waking up the power receiver comprises: establishing communication with the power receiver; and performing one or more operations associated with the discovery state and the connected state, said one or more operations including at least foreign object detection (FOD).

[0095] Clause 13. The method of Clause 12, wherein performing one or more operations comprises: determining that the power receiver is present in the operating environment of the power transmitter and that no foreign object is detected by the FOD; and omitting at least one operation that would normally be performed during the discovery state or the connected state.

[0096] Clause 14. The method of any one of Clauses 1 to 13 further includes, after the corresponding sleep time of the corresponding conditional standby state has expired: determining that the power receiver has been moved, the power receiver is no longer present in the operating environment of the power transmitter, or a foreign object has been introduced during the conditional standby state; and resetting the power transmitter to a reinitialized state.

[0097] Clause 15. A power transmitter comprising: a controller configured to implement a method according to any one of Clauses 1 to 11.

[0098] Clause 16. A method performed by a power receiver for use in a wireless power system, the method comprising: transmitting a first request to a power transmitter to transition to a conditional standby state; receiving bias power from the power transmitter after a sleep time of the conditional standby state has expired; and transmitting one or more communications to the power transmitter after receiving the bias power, the one or more communications being configured to cause the power transmitter to either transition to a power-on state or return to the conditional standby state.

[0099] Clause 17. The method of Clause 16, wherein the one or more communications include a power state transition request message that causes the power transmitter to transition to a power supply state.

[0100] Clause 18. The method of Clause 16, wherein the one or more communications include a second request to return the power transmitter to a conditional standby state for another duration of sleep time or to a new duration of sleep time, the new duration of sleep time being indicated in the second request.

[0101] Clause 19. The method of any one of Clauses 16 to 18 further includes: transmitting from the power receiver to the power transmitter an indication that the power receiver is in a first type of appliance, the first type of appliance implementing sleep time between instances of power supply state.

[0102] Clause 20. The method of any one of Clauses 16 to 19, wherein the first request indicates at least one of the following: a definite value of sleep time, an expected cooling time for the heating operation of the appliance, a target temperature for the reheating operation of the appliance, or other markers that enable the power transmitter to calculate conditions for waking the power receiver from a conditional standby state.

[0103] Clause 21. The method of any one of Clauses 16 to 20 further includes: negotiating a sleep time with the power transmitter via one or more messages prior to delivering the first request to transition to a conditional standby state.

[0104] Clause 22. A power receiver comprising: a controller configured to implement a method according to any one of Clauses 16 to 21.

[0105] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented as a computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform any of the functions mentioned above.

[0106] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented as a system having components for achieving any of the functions mentioned above.

[0107] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented as an apparatus having one or more processors configured to perform one or more operations from any of the methods mentioned above.

[0108] As used herein, the phrase “at least one of” or “one or more” in a list of items refers to any combination of those items, including a single member. For example, “at least one of a, b or c” is intended to cover the following possibilities: only a, only b, only c, a combination of a and b, a combination of a and c, a combination of b and c, and a combination of a, b and c.

[0109] The various illustrative components, logic, logic blocks, modules, circuits, operations, and algorithmic processes described herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, firmware, software, or a combination of hardware, firmware, or software, including the structures disclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents. The interchangeability of hardware, firmware, and software has been generally described from a functional perspective and is illustrated in the various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and processes described above. Whether such functionality is implemented in hardware, firmware, or software depends on the specific application and the design constraints imposed on the overall system.

[0110] Hardware and data processing apparatuses for implementing the various illustrative components, logic, logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the aspects disclosed herein may be implemented or executed using general-purpose single-chip or multi-chip processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or other programmable logic devices (PLDs), discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors coupled with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some implementations, specific processes, operations, and methods may be executed by circuits specific to a given function.

[0111] As described above, some aspects of the subject matter described herein can be implemented as software. For example, the various functions of the components disclosed herein, or the various blocks or steps of the methods, operations, processes, or algorithms disclosed herein, can be implemented as one or more modules of one or more computer programs. Such computer programs may include non-transitory processor-executable or computer-executable instructions encoded on one or more tangible processor-readable or computer-readable storage media for execution by or control of the operation of a data processing apparatus including components of the device described herein. For example, and without limitation, such storage media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage devices, magnetic disk storage devices or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store program code in the form of instructions or data structures. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of storage media.

[0112] Various modifications to the implementations described in this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other implementations without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the claims are not intended to limit them to the implementations shown herein, but are to be given the widest scope consistent with this disclosure, the principles disclosed herein, and the novel features.

[0113] Furthermore, the various features described in this specification in the context of individual implementations may also be implemented in combination within a single implementation. Conversely, the various features described in the context of a single implementation may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple implementations. Thus, although features may be described above as functioning in a particular combination, or even initially claimed to be so, in some cases, one or more features from the claimed combination may be removed from the combination, and the claimed combination may be for a sub-combination or a variant of the sub-combination.

[0114] Similarly, although operations are depicted in a specific order in the accompanying drawings, this should not be construed as requiring such operations to be performed in the specific order shown or in sequential order, or to perform all illustrated operations to achieve the desired result. Furthermore, the accompanying drawings may schematically depict one or more example processes in the form of flowcharts or flow diagrams. However, other operations not depicted may be incorporated into the schematically illustrated example processes. For example, one or more additional operations may be performed before, after, simultaneously with, or between any illustrated operations. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be construed as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

Claims

1. A method performed by a power transmitter of a wireless power system, comprising: communicating with a power receiver of a device; transitioning to a standby state based on a first request from the power receiver to enter a conditional standby state; waking up the power receiver after an expiration of a sleep time of the conditional standby state; receiving one or more communications from the power receiver after waking up the power receiver; and transitioning to a power supply state when the one or more communications include a power request message from the power receiver.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising when the one or more communications include a second request to transition to the conditional standby state: avoiding transitioning to the power supply state; and returning to the conditional standby state based on the second request.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein returning to the conditional standby state comprises: transitioning to the standby state for a subsequent duration of the sleep time; and waking up the power receiver after the expiration of the subsequent duration of the sleep time.

4. The method of claim 2, wherein the second request indicates a new sleep time duration, and wherein returning to the conditional standby state comprises: transitioning to the standby state for the new sleep time duration; and waking up the power receiver after the expiration of the new sleep time duration.

5. The method of any of claims 1-4, further comprising: receiving an indication from the power receiver that the power receiver is in a first type of appliance that implements a sleep time between instances of the power supply state.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein receiving the indication comprises receiving a near field communication (NFC) data exchange format (NDEF) message that includes a field with the indication.

7. The method of any of claims 1-6, wherein the first request indicates a sleep time.

8. The method of any of claims 1-6, wherein the first request indicates an expected cool down time after a heating operation of the appliance, the method further comprising: calculating a sleep time of the conditional standby state based at least in part on the expected cool down time.

9. The method of any of claims 1-8, wherein the first request indicates a target temperature of a re-heating operation of the appliance, the method further comprising: transitioning to the power supply state when the one or more communications include a temperature measurement that is below the target temperature.

10. The method of any of claims 1-9, further comprising: negotiating a sleep time with the power receiver via one or more messages prior to receiving the first request to enter the conditional standby state.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein negotiating a sleep time comprises: receiving a first value from the power receiver, the first value indicating at least one of a nominal cool down time, a nominal sleep time, or a requested sleep time; ​ ​ ​ communicating a second value from the power transmitter to the power receiver, the second value indicating a proposed sleep time based on one or more parameters of the power transmitter; and setting a sleep time based at least in part on the first value and the second value.

12. The method of any of claims 1-11, wherein waking up the power receiver comprises: establishing communication with the power receiver; and performing one or more operations associated with a discovery state and a connected state, the one or more operations comprising at least foreign object detection (FOD).

13. The method of claim 12, wherein performing the one or more operations comprises: determining that the power receiver is present in an operating environment of the power transmitter and that no foreign objects have been detected by the FOD; and omitting at least one operation that would otherwise be performed during a discovery state or a connected state.

14. The method of any of claims 1-13, further comprising, after expiration of a respective sleep time of a corresponding conditional standby state: determining that the power receiver is moved, that the power receiver is no longer present in an operating environment of the power transmitter, or that a foreign object has been introduced during a conditional standby state; and resetting the power transmitter to a reinitialization state.

15. A method performed by a power receiver of a device for use in a wireless power system, the method comprising: communicating a first request to transition to a conditional standby state to a power transmitter; receiving bias power from the power transmitter after expiration of a sleep time of the conditional standby state; and communicating one or more communications to the power transmitter after receiving the bias power, the one or more communications configured to cause the power transmitter to either transition to a powered state or return to the conditional standby state.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the one or more communications comprise a powered state transition request message that causes the power transmitter to transition to a powered state.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the one or more communications comprise a second request that causes the power transmitter to return to the conditional standby state for another duration of the sleep time or for a new sleep time duration, the new sleep time duration indicated in the second request.

18. The method of any of claims 15-17, further comprising: communicating an indication from the power receiver to the power transmitter that the power receiver is in a first type of appliance that implements a sleep time between instances of a powered state.

19. The method of any of claims 15-18, wherein the first request indicates at least one of: an explicit value for the sleep time, an expected cool down time for a heating operation of the appliance, a target temperature for a re-heating operation of the appliance, or other indicia that enable the power transmitter to calculate a condition for waking up the power receiver from the conditional standby state. ​ 20. The method of any of claims 15 to 19, further comprising: negotiating a sleep time with the power transmitter via one or more messages prior to passing the first request to transition to a conditional standby state.

21. A power transmitter, comprising: a communication unit configured to communicate with a power receiver of a device; a power transmitter (PTx) controller configured to: transition to a standby state based on a first request from the power receiver to enter a conditional standby state, and wake up the power receiver after expiration of a sleep time of the conditional standby state; the communication unit configured to receive one or more communications from the power receiver after waking up the power receiver; and the PTx controller to transition to a powered state when the one or more communications include a power request message from the power receiver.

22. The power transmitter of claim 21, wherein the PTx controller is further configured to, when the one or more communications include a second request to transition to a conditional standby state: avoid transitioning to a powered state; and return to the conditional standby state based on the second request.

23. The power transmitter of claim 22, wherein the PTx controller configured to return to the conditional standby state comprises the PTx controller configured to: transition to the standby state for a subsequent duration of the sleep time; and wake up the power receiver after expiration of the subsequent duration of the sleep time.

24. The power transmitter of claim 22, wherein the second request indicates a new sleep time duration, and wherein the PTx controller configured to return to the conditional standby state comprises the PTx controller configured to: transition to the standby state for the new sleep time duration; and wake up the power receiver after expiration of the new sleep time duration.

25. The power transmitter of claim 25, wherein the communication unit is further configured to receive an indication from the power receiver that the power receiver is in a first type of appliance that implements a sleep time between instances of a powered state.

26. The power transmitter of claim 25, wherein the communication receives the indication via a near field communication (NFC) data exchange format (NDEF) message that includes a field with the indication.

27. The power transmitter of claim 27, wherein the first request indicates a sleep time.

28. The power transmitter of claim 28, wherein the first request indicates an expected cool down time after a heating operation of the appliance, wherein the PTx controller is further configured to: calculate a sleep time of the conditional standby state based at least in part on the expected cool down time.

29. The power transmitter of claim 29, wherein the first request indicates a target temperature of a reheat operation of the electric appliance, wherein the PTx controller is further configured to: transition to a powered state upon the one or more communications including a temperature measurement that is below the target temperature.

30. The power transmitter of claim 30, wherein the PTx controller is further configured to: negotiate a sleep time with the power receiver via one or more messages prior to receiving the first request to enter the conditional standby state.

31. The power transmitter of claim 30, wherein the PTx controller is further configured to: receive a first value from the power receiver, the first value indicating at least one of a nominal cool down time, a nominal sleep time, or a requested sleep time; communicate a second value from the power transmitter to the power receiver, the second value indicating a proposed sleep time based on one or more parameters of the power transmitter; and set a sleep time based at least in part on the first value and the second value.

32. The power transmitter of claim 32, wherein waking up the power receiver comprises: the communication unit configured to establish communication with the power receiver; and the PTx controller configured to perform one or more operations associated with a discovery state and a connected state, the one or more operations including at least a foreign object detection (FOD).

33. The power transmitter of claim 32, wherein the PTx controller is further configured to, after waking up the power receiver: determine that the power receiver is present in an operating environment of the power transmitter and no foreign object is detected by the FOD; and omit at least one operation that would otherwise be performed during the discovery state or the connected state.

34. The power transmitter of claim 34, wherein the PTx controller is further configured to, after expiration of a respective sleep time of a corresponding conditional standby state: determine that the power receiver is moved, the power receiver is no longer present in an operating environment of the power transmitter, or a foreign object has been introduced during the conditional standby state; and reset the power transmitter to a re-initialization state.

35. A power receiver, comprising: a communication unit configured to: communicate a first request to transition to a conditional standby state to a power transmitter, and receive a bias power from the power transmitter after expiration of a sleep time of the conditional standby state; and a power receiver (PRx) controller configured to cause the communication unit to communicate one or more communications to the power transmitter after receiving the bias power, the one or more communications configured to cause the power transmitter to either transition to a powered state or return to the conditional standby state.

36. The power receiver of claim 35, wherein the one or more communications include a powered state transition request message that causes the power transmitter to transition to a powered state.

37. The power receiver of claim 35, wherein the one or more communications include a second request for the power transmitter to return to the conditional standby state for another duration of sleep time or for a new sleep time duration, the new sleep time duration being indicated in the second request.

38. The power receiver of claim 38, wherein the communication unit is further configured to communicate from the power receiver to the power transmitter an indication that the power receiver is in a first type of appliance that implements a sleep time between instances of a powered state.

39. The power receiver of claim 39, wherein the first request indicates at least one of: an explicit value of sleep time, an expected cool down time of a heating operation of the appliance, a target temperature of a re-heating operation of the appliance, or other indicia that enable the power transmitter to calculate a condition for waking the power receiver from the conditional standby state.

40. The power receiver of claim 40, wherein the PRx controller is further configured to: negotiate a sleep time with the power transmitter via one or more messages prior to communicating the first request to transition to the conditional standby state.

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