Wireless charging device and mobile charging device

Abstract

A wireless charging device aims to improve charging compatibility and efficiency of a smart watch through an innovative mechanism. The device comprises an adjustable magnetic ball at the central position of the wireless charging panel, and the magnetic ball can be dynamically aligned with a magnetic array of the smart watch. This alignment ensures optimal positioning and efficient energy transfer through automatic adjustment to accommodate different magnetic configurations and polarities in various smart watch models. In addition, the wireless charging device is provided with a rotatable electric connector, and the connector can rotate at most 90 degrees in any direction. Due to the rotation, the wireless charging device can adapt to different directions of USB ports on various power supplies, so that the intelligent watch can be flatly placed on the charging panel regardless of the directions of the ports. The electrical connector is designed to be compatible with various connectors, wherein one embodiment is a USB Type-C connector. According to the utility model, the dynamically adjustable magnetic ball and the rotatable electric connector are introduced to wirelessly charge the intelligent watch.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present utility model relates to wireless charging devices generally. More specifically, the present utility model relates to a wireless charging device for smartwatches, which has an adjustable alignment mechanism and a rotatable electrical connector to accommodate various charging scenarios and orientations. BACKGROUND

[0002] Wireless charging technology has significantly improved the convenience of powering various electronic devices, including smartwatches. Traditional wireless chargers use inductive charging technology, which transmits power from a charging pad to a receiving device through electromagnetic induction. For effective charging, precise alignment between the transmitter (charging pad) and receiver (smartwatch) is usually required.

[0003] There are wireless chargers designed specifically for smartwatches, which include features to help align the watch with the charging coil. However, these chargers often face the following challenges:

[0004] 1. Magnetic alignment issues: Many smartwatches, such as the Apple Watch, use a magnet array to facilitate alignment with the charger. However, mismatches in the polarity or configuration of these magnet arrays can result in repulsion rather than attraction, leading to poor smartwatch alignment and inefficient charging. Some chargers use static magnet arrays, which may not be compatible with all smartwatch designs, resulting in reduced charging efficiency or complete incompatibility.

[0005] 2. Connector orientation issues: Smartwatches are typically charged in a horizontal position on a flat surface, but USB port orientations on power sources such as power banks and computer hosts vary. For example, vertical USB ports on some devices make it difficult to place the smartwatch flat on the charger, and it must be placed vertically, but this is affected by gravity. This poor alignment prevents normal charging and is very inconvenient for users who need to charge in different locations with different direction ports.

[0006] These problems highlight the need for an improved wireless charging device that is versatile, user-friendly, and compatible with various smartwatch designs and charging scenarios.

[0007] In view of the limitations of the prior art, there is a need for a wireless charging device to address the above problems. SUMMARY

[0008] The utility model discloses a wireless charging device, through the innovative design of some components, the charging experience of smart watch user is improved obviously, and the alignment and direction challenge inherent in the existing wireless charging device are solved. The utility model provides a multifunctional and efficient solution, through introducing dynamic adjustable magnetic ball and rotatable electric connector to wirelessly charge smart watch.

[0009] The wireless charging device of the utility model includes an electric connector that can be connected to an external power source, which includes but is not limited to a mobile power supply, a computer host and a standard USB port. The electric connector is not limited to any specific type, making it widely applicable, and one embodiment includes a USB Type-C connector.

[0010] A main feature of the utility model is a magnetic ball at the center of the wireless charging plate. This magnetic ball is designed to dynamically align the magnetic array of any smart watch placed on the charging plate. The movement and positioning of the magnetic ball are controlled by the interaction of the magnetic ball with the magnetic field of the smart watch. This interaction ensures that the magnetic ball adjusts its position to optimize alignment with the smart watch charging mechanism, thereby facilitating efficient energy transfer. This solution overcomes the problem of magnetic polarity mismatch, which can cause repulsion and poor alignment in existing chargers.

[0011] Another significant feature of the utility model is the rotation mechanism associated with the electric connector. This mechanism allows the connector to rotate in any direction from its original position, with a rotation angle of up to 90 degrees in one embodiment. This rotation enables the wireless charging device to adapt to different orientations of the USB port of the external power source. This flexibility ensures that the smart watch can always be placed flat on the charging plate regardless of the orientation of the port of the external power source, thereby improving usability. The rotation mechanism includes at least one flexible wire connecting the electric connector to the wireless charging device circuit board, ensuring electrical connection during rotation. In addition, the rotation mechanism also includes a stop mechanism to prevent excessive rotation, as excessive rotation can damage the device.

[0012] The design of the wireless charging plate follows the Qi standard for wireless power transmission, which is the most commonly used standard for charging smart watches and other compatible devices. This ensures that the device can charge a variety of smart watches that meet this standard.

[0013] Safety features are integrated into the design of the wireless charging device to prevent overcurrent, overvoltage and overheating, which protects the charging device and smart watch during use. These features are essential for providing a reliable and safe charging experience.

[0014] In summary, the wireless charging device provides improved functionality through a magnetically aligned magnetic ball and a rotatable electrical connector that accommodates various power source orientations. These features, combined with standard safety measures and Qi charging protocols, make the wireless charging device a versatile and user-friendly smartwatch charging solution.

[0015] In order to make the above features and advantages of the present application more obvious and understandable, a preferred embodiment is described below, and the accompanying drawings are described in detail as follows. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0016] Various embodiments will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are used to illustrate but not to limit the scope in any way, wherein like reference numbers represent like components, and the drawings simply illustrate as follows:

[0017] Figure 1 A block diagram of one embodiment of the wireless charging device of the present application is shown.

[0018] Figure 2 An internal view of one embodiment of the wireless charging device of the present application is shown.

[0019] Figure 3A An external view of one embodiment of the wireless charging device of the present application is shown.

[0020] Figure 3B An internal partial view of the housing of the wireless charging device is shown.

[0021] Figure 4 A flowchart of the operation of the wireless charging device is shown.

[0022] Figure 5A A back external view of the mobile charging device of the present application is shown.

[0023] Figure 5B An external view of the storable stand of the present application when expanded is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 A block diagram of one embodiment of the wireless charging device of the present application is shown, Figure 2The internal view of one embodiment of the wireless charging device is shown. The wireless charging device 100 of this embodiment aims to improve the charging experience for users of smartwatches 10. This wireless charging device 100 solves the common problems in existing wireless chargers, including poor alignment of smartwatches due to incompatible magnetic arrays 12 and charging difficulties in different directions due to the design of fixed-direction USB ports 22.

[0025] The wireless charging device 100 employs a novel approach to ensure optimal alignment between the wireless charging panel 120 and the smartwatch 10 and efficient energy transfer. In this embodiment, the wireless charging device 100 employs a mechanism of a magnetic ball 130 that dynamically interacts with the magnetic array 12 of the smartwatch 10. This interaction allows the magnetic ball 130 to automatically adjust its position, precisely aligning with the internal magnets of the smartwatch 10 (including the magnetic array 12), ensuring a strong and stable connection for maximum energy transfer.

[0026] In addition, the wireless charging device 100 has a rotatable electrical connector 110, significantly enhancing the flexibility of the smartwatch 10 when charging. In this embodiment, the electrical connector 110 can be rotated up to 90 degrees in any direction, allowing the wireless charging device 100 to adapt to various directions of USB ports 22 on different external power sources 20 (such as mobile power sources, laptops, and desktop computers). This rotatable design ensures that the smartwatch 10 can be placed flat on the wireless charging panel 120, which is important for stable and efficient charging.

[0027] By combining these features, the wireless charging device 100 not only improves the usability and compatibility of the smartwatch 10 charging, but also achieves this goal in an intuitive and user-friendly manner. The design considerations in this utility model pave the way for smooth integration into the daily life of users of smartwatches 10, eliminating the frustration often encountered when charging this type of device.

[0028] The following sections will detail the structure and components of the wireless charging device 100, explaining how each component contributes to the overall functionality and effectiveness of the utility model.

[0029] The electrical connector 110 of the wireless charging device 100 serves as the main port between the wireless charging device and the power source. In this embodiment, the electrical connector 110 is a USB Type-C, which is widely used in modern electronic devices due to its reversible nature. In addition, in other embodiments, the electrical connector 110 can be varied to accommodate different types of USB ports and other types of external power source ports, making the wireless charging device 100 versatile and universal.

[0030] The electrical connector 100 also includes a design that allows rotation, i.e., a rotating mechanism 140. This rotatable design is important to accommodate different orientations of the USB port 22 of the external power source 20. Whether the USB port 22 extends horizontally or vertically, the electrical connector 100 in this embodiment can be adjusted by rotating the rotating mechanism 140 by 90 degrees. This rotation capability ensures that the smart watch 10 can be placed flat on the wireless charging pad 120, maintaining a stable and consistent charging position.

[0031] The rotating mechanism 140 is a key feature of the wireless charging device 100. It includes a flexible electrical cord 160 that connects the electrical connector 110 to a circuit board 150 inside the wireless charging device 100. The flexible electrical cord 160 can be bent and twisted to a certain extent without affecting the electrical connection, ensuring that power transmission remains stable and reliable even when the electrical connector 110 is rotated.

[0032] In addition, the rotating mechanism 140 is equipped with a stop mechanism 142 designed to prevent over-rotation. In this embodiment, the stop mechanism 142 limits the rotation angle of the rotating mechanism 140, allowing it to rotate at most 90 degrees in one rotation direction, protecting internal components (e.g., the flexible electrical cord 160) from damage caused by excessive twisting. In this embodiment, the stop mechanism 142 is engaged with a stop groove 105b of the housing 105 (as shown in Figure 3B ), making it more difficult for the user to rotate further in the same direction.

[0033] In other embodiments, the stop mechanism 142 can be designed in an asymmetric manner to enhance the stopping effect. For example, the stop mechanism 142 can have a small protrusion (not shown) that, when the stop mechanism 142 is inserted into the stop groove 105b of the housing 105, engages with a small groove (not shown) on the stop groove 105b, preventing the rotating mechanism 140 from continuing to rotate in the same direction.

[0034] The wireless charging pad 120 is an interface for the smart watch 10 to be placed on it for charging. The wireless charging pad 120 in this embodiment is circular, and the corresponding part of the housing 105 that covers it also has a charging surface 105a (as shown in Figure 3A ) that supports the back of the smart watch 10. The charging surface 105a of the housing 105 is usually made of a non-slip material to ensure that the smart watch 10 remains stable in place during charging.

[0035] In this embodiment, the wireless charging pad 120 performs wireless charging based on the Qi standard. This standard is the most commonly used wireless power transfer protocol in consumer electronics, particularly smartwatches. By adhering to this standard, the wireless charging device 100 ensures compatibility with a wide range of smartwatches from various manufacturers. The Qi standard also specifies the energy transfer mechanism, which typically involves an induction coil 122 in the wireless charging pad 120 that creates an electromagnetic field, which in turn induces a current in a receiving coil 14 within the smartwatch 10, thereby charging the smartwatch 10.

[0036] The magnetic ball 130 is centrally located on the wireless charging pad 120, made of a ferromagnetic material, designed to rotate and slightly move within the housing 105 to dynamically align with the magnetic array 12 of any smartwatch 10 placed above the wireless charging pad 120. The magnetism of the magnetic ball 130 enables it to interact with the magnetic array 12 in the smartwatch 10, adjusting its position to find the optimal alignment for efficient energy transfer.

[0037] This dynamic alignment is crucial in overcoming the issue of magnetic polarity mismatch, which can result in low charging efficiency or complete disconnection. By using the magnetic ball 130, which can rotate freely, the wireless charging device 100 can adapt to the design and configuration of the magnets of various smartwatches 10, ensuring that the charging process is not only efficient but also consistent and reliable across different watch models.

[0038] Next, please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 4 illustrated as a flowchart of the operation of the wireless charging device. To start using the wireless charging device, as shown in step S110, the user first connects the wireless charging device 100 to the USB port 22 of the external power source 20. This step can be done by inserting the electrical connector 110 into the USB port 22, which can be a port on a power bank, a laptop, or a desktop computer. In one embodiment, the electrical connector 110 is a USB Type-C connector, which benefits the user with its reversible plug design, allowing it to be inserted in any direction without needing to align a specific orientation of the connector. Once connected, the wireless charging device 100 is ready to receive power and start the charging process for the smartwatch 10.

[0039] As shown in step S120, if the orientation of the USB port 22 makes it difficult to place the smartwatch 10 flat on the charging surface 105a, for example, if the USB port 22 on some desktop computer models is oriented vertically, the user can rotate the electrical connector 110 (step S130). This rotation adjusts the position of the electrical connector 110 to match the orientation of the USB port 22, ensuring that the smartwatch 10 can be placed flat and remain stable for charging.

[0040] In step S130, the ability of the rotational connector 140 comes into play. The user can rotate the electrical connector 110 to ensure that the smartwatch 10 can lay flat on the charging surface 105a. Moreover, the stop mechanism 142 ensures that the user cannot rotate the electrical connector 110 beyond the design limits, protecting the wireless charging device 100 from potential damage. This makes the charging process not only more convenient, but also safer. In this embodiment, the rotational mechanism 140 allows for up to 90 degrees of adjustment in either direction, providing the flexibility needed to accommodate a variety of port orientations.

[0041] After connecting the wireless charging device 100 to the external power source 20, the user places the smartwatch 10 on the charging surface 105a above the wireless charging pad 120 in step S140. When the smartwatch 10 is brought close to the wireless charging pad 120, step S150 is automatically executed, and the magnetic ball 130 located at the center of the wireless charging pad 120 begins to interact with the magnetic array 12 in the smartwatch 10. This interaction is not static; the magnetic ball 130 dynamically adjusts its position within the housing 105 to precisely align with the magnetic array 12 in the smartwatch 10.

[0042] This dynamic alignment is quite important for optimal charging efficiency. It ensures that the electromagnetic field generated by the induction coil 122 of the wireless charging pad 120 is correctly aligned with the receiving coil 14 in the smartwatch 10, maximizing the energy transfer rate. The user does not need to manually adjust the smartwatch 10 to find the "sweet spot" for charging - the magnetic ball 130 automates this process, significantly simplifying the user experience.

[0043] Once the smartwatch 10 is placed on the charging surface 105a and the electrical connector 110 is adjusted if necessary, the charging process begins. In some embodiments, the user will see the smartwatch 10 display that it is charging, usually through a symbol or light on the surface. The wireless charging device 100 itself operates quietly and efficiently, and in some embodiments, built-in safety features monitor the charging process to prevent overcurrent, overvoltage, and overheating. These safety features are important to protect the electronic components in the charging device and the smartwatch. They ensure that the charging process is not only effective, but also safe, giving the user peace of mind that their device is protected from electrical malfunctions.

[0044] Through these operational steps described above, the wireless charging device 100 of this embodiment demonstrates its advanced design and user-centric functionality.

[0045] Please refer back to Figure 1In this embodiment, the wireless charging device 100 is equipped with various safety and protection features to ensure safe and reliable operation. These features are designed to protect the wireless charging device 100, the smartwatch 10, and the user from potential electrical hazards such as overcurrent, overvoltage, and overheating. These mechanisms are crucial for maintaining the integrity and durability of the wireless charging device 100 while providing a safe charging environment for daily use.

[0046] Overcurrent protection is a key feature of the wireless charging device 100. It prevents excessive current from flowing in, which could lead to overheating, potential damage to internal circuitry, and even a fire risk. The circuit board 150 of the wireless charging device 100 includes a current limiter 152 that detects when the current exceeds a predetermined safety threshold. If an overcurrent condition is detected, the current limiter 152 automatically reduces the output power or, in more severe cases, completely shuts off the power supply to prevent damage. This feature is particularly important when the power supply is unstable or of poor quality, as current fluctuations may occur.

[0047] Overvoltage protection is another essential feature that protects the wireless charging device 100 and smartwatch 10 from voltages exceeding their designed tolerances. This protection is implemented by the voltage regulator 154, which monitors the voltage level of the external power source 20. If the voltage exceeds the safe operating range, the voltage regulator 154 adjusts it to a safer level or shuts down the connection to the external power source 20 to prevent any potential damage. This is particularly useful in the event of a sudden voltage surge in the external power source 20, such as a lightning strike or power spike.

[0048] To mitigate the risk of overheating, the circuit board 150 of the wireless charging device 100 also includes a temperature sensor 156, which continuously monitors the heat levels generated by the wireless charging pad 120 and the various circuit components on the circuit board 150. If the temperature exceeds a default safety limit, the wireless charging device 100 automatically initiates a thermal shutdown procedure. This thermal shutdown procedure may involve reducing charging power to reduce heat generation or temporarily suspending charging to allow the wireless charging device 100 to cool down. This feature prevents thermal damage to the smartwatch 10 and wireless charging device 100, ensuring an efficient and safe charging process.

[0049] In addition to these electronic safety features, the material design of the wireless charging device 100 also enhances its overall safety. For example, the housing 105 of the wireless charging device 100 is made of a fire-resistant material, capable of withstanding high temperatures without deformation or ignition. The charging surface 105a is made of a non-slip material. This feature not only helps keep the smartwatch 10 stable during charging but also enhances safety by preventing accidental drops, thereby preventing damage or malfunction.

[0050] In addition, user safety is an important consideration in the design of the wireless charging device 100. By Figure 3A As can be seen, all edges and corners of the wireless charging device 100 are rounded and smooth to prevent cuts or scratches during operation. In addition, the wireless charging device 100 complies with international safety standards for wireless charging devices, which cover electromagnetic field exposure limits to ensure safety during daily use and do not pose a risk to the user's health.

[0051] With these comprehensive safety and protection features, the wireless charging device 100 ensures a safe and reliable charging process.

[0052] In addition, the wireless charging device 100 described above can also be part of a mobile charging device. Please refer to Figure 5A With Figure 5B , Figure 5A illustrated as the back view of the mobile charging device of the present application, Figure 5B illustrated as the appearance of the storable stand of the present application when unfolded. The mobile charging device 1000 includes a casing 1100 made of durable material suitable for protecting internal components from physical damage and environmental conditions. Inside the casing 1100 is a rechargeable battery (not shown), the capacity of which is selected according to the balance between the required charging capacity and the physical limitations of portability. The mobile charging device 1000 also includes a storable stand 1200 connected to the casing 1100 in a pivoting manner, allowing the storable stand 1200 to be converted between an unfolded position and a folded position (for easy storage). In the unfolded position, the storable stand 1200 supports the casing 1100 at an angle θ with the support surface 30. The storable stand 1200 includes an upper half 1220 pivotally connected to the casing 1100 and a detachable lower half 1240 detachably connected to the upper half 1220, and in Figure 5A With Figure 5B the lower half in the above-mentioned wireless charging device 100 (but without the cover). The connection mechanism of the lower half 1240 and the upper half 1220 ensures its secure fixation when used as a stand, while also allowing easy detachment when wireless charging function is needed.

[0053] In the above embodiments, although the electrical connector of the wireless charging device adopts the USB Type-C connector, the wireless charging device can also adopt other types of electrical connectors to meet the needs of different markets and users. For example, the electrical connector of the wireless charging device can be a Micro-USB connector, which is still widely used in many electronic devices. Alternatively, for users of electronic devices developed by Apple, the electrical connector of the wireless charging device can be a Lightning connector, allowing direct charging from the Apple ecosystem without the need to use an adapter.

[0054] In addition, in other embodiments, the range of motion of the magnetic ball can be increased to accommodate smartwatches with more diverse magnetic configurations. By expanding the housing that houses the magnetic ball, the device can accommodate larger changes in alignment, ensuring compatibility with future smartwatches that may have different magnetic layouts.

[0055] Furthermore, the magnetic material of the magnetic ball can be changed to adjust the strength of the magnetic interaction. For example, using a magnetic material with weaker magnetism can reduce the attraction to smartwatches with sensitive magnetic sensors, while using a stronger magnetic material can ensure a secure connection for heavier smartwatches.

[0056] The rotation mechanism that allows the electrical connector to adjust to the direction of the USB port can also be modified to increase its range or provide more precise rotation control. For example, introducing a ratchet mechanism can provide users with tactile feedback for each degree of rotation, making it easier to set the desired precise angle for optimal charging.

[0057] Although the utility model has been disclosed as above with preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the utility model, anyone with ordinary knowledge in the art can make some changes and decorations without departing from the spirit and scope of the utility model, therefore the protection scope of the utility model shall be defined by the appended patent claims.

Claims

1. A wireless charging device, adapted to be connected to an external power source, characterized in that: The wireless charging device includes: an electrical connector adapted to connect to the external power source; a wireless charging pad connected to the electrical connector, the wireless charging pad being suitable for wirelessly charging a smart watch; and A magnetic ball is located at the center of the wireless charging pad, wherein the magnetic ball is suitable for dynamically aligning with at least one magnetic array of the smart watch.

2. The wireless charging device according to claim 1, wherein: The electrical connector is a USB Type-C connector.

3. The wireless charging device according to claim 1, wherein: The magnetic ball is composed of ferromagnetic material and can be moved within a predetermined area of ​​the wireless charging pad to enhance magnetic alignment with the smart watch.

4. The wireless charging device according to claim 1, wherein: The invention also includes a rotation mechanism, wherein the rotation mechanism is connected to the electrical connector, wherein the rotation mechanism allows the electrical connector to rotate relative to an initial position to adapt to different directions of the power port.

5. The wireless charging device according to claim 4, wherein: The rotating mechanism further includes a stop mechanism to limit the electrical connector from rotating at most 90 degrees from the initial position.

6. The wireless charging device according to claim 4, wherein: The invention also includes a flexible wire, which is used to connect the electrical connector and a circuit board of the wireless charging device.

7. The wireless charging device according to claim 1, wherein: Over-current, over-voltage, and over-temperature protection mechanisms are further included to ensure safe operation during charging of the smartwatch.

8. The wireless charging device according to claim 1, wherein: The wireless charging pad utilizes the Qi standard protocol to provide wireless charging for the smartwatch.

9. A mobile charging device, characterized in that: include: a housing; as well as A retractable bracket is fixed to the housing, wherein the retractable bracket includes an upper half and a detachable lower half, wherein the detachable lower half becomes the wireless charging device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 after being detached from the housing.

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