DUAL POWER / SENSOR PORT WITH DYNAMIC SWITCHING

Abstract

DUAL POWER / SENSOR PORT WITH DYNAMIC SWITCHING System, including a device comprising a first connector, a processor, and a power supply, and at least one accessory comprising a second connector, wherein the at least one accessory is configured to be coupled to the device. When the device and the at least one accessory are coupled, the first connector makes contact with the second connector, wherein the first and second connectors are rotationally symmetrical, such that the second connector is configured to couple to the first connector in a plurality of orientations.When the first connector is paired with the second connector, the processor is configured to monitor the charge level of at least one accessory. When the charge level falls below a predetermined threshold, it switches between monitoring the charge level of at least one accessory and charging that accessory from the power source. (Figure for the abbreviation: none.)

Description

Title of the invention: DUAL POWER / SENSOR PORT WITH DYNAMIC SWITCHING ABSTRACT

[0001] In one aspect, there is disclosed herein a system, including a device with a first connector, a processor and a power source, and at least one accessory including a second connector, wherein the at least one accessory is configured to couple to the device, wherein, when the device and the at least one accessory are coupled, the first connector contacts the second connector, wherein the first connector and the second connector are rotationally symmetrical, such that the second connector is configured to couple to the first connector in a plurality of orientations.In some embodiments, during operation when the first connector couples to the second connector, the processor is configured to sense a charge level of the at least one accessory, and when the charge level is below a predetermined charge threshold, switch between sensing the charge level of the at least one accessory and charging the at least one accessory with the power source.

[0002] In some embodiments, the first connector includes a first plurality of contacts, and the second connector includes a second plurality of contacts. In some embodiments, the number of contacts in the first plurality of contacts is equal to the number of contacts in the second plurality of contacts. In some embodiments, the first plurality of contacts includes a first center contact and two first auxiliary contacts, and the second plurality of contacts includes a second center contact and two second auxiliary contacts. In some embodiments, the first center contact is configured to couple to the second center contact, and one or the other of the first auxiliary contacts is configured to couple to one or the other of the second auxiliary contacts.

[0003] In some embodiments, the device further includes a current sensor configured to monitor a current of the at least one accessory, and a sensing unit configured to sense the charge of the at least one accessory. In some embodiments, during operation, the processor receives a signal indicative of a monitored current level from the current sensor and turns off the power source, and turns on the sensing unit, when the monitored current level is below a current threshold. In some embodiments, the current threshold condition is indicative of an absence of power draw as measured by the current sensor. In some embodiments, the first center contact and the second center contact are configured to switch between a load line and a communication line based on the measured charge level.

[0004] In some embodiments, the at least one accessory includes a battery and a power line monitoring device, and when the first connector contacts the second connector, the processor is further configured to receive a charge level sensed by the power line monitoring device, and when the charge level is below the predetermined charge threshold, switch between communicating with the at least one accessory and charging the battery of the at least one accessory. In some embodiments, the device includes a first switching circuit and a first single-wire bus, and the processor is further configured to, when the charge level is below the predetermined charge threshold, turn off the power source and turn on the first single-wire bus.In some embodiments, the at least one accessory further comprises a second switching circuit and a second single-wire bus, and an accessory processor, where the accessory processor is configured to receive a charge level from the power line monitoring device, when the charge level is below a predetermined charge threshold, transmit the charge level to the first processor, when the charge level is above the predetermined threshold, switch to the second single-wire bus, and communicate with the first processor to stop charging the battery.

[0005] In another aspect, disclosed herein is a method of switching between charging and communicating with an accessory, the method including connecting a first connector of a device to a second connector of the accessory, where the first connector has a first plurality of contacts, the second connector has a second plurality of contacts. In some embodiments, a number of contacts in the first plurality of contacts is equal to a number of contacts in the second plurality of contacts, and the second connector is configured to couple to the second connector in a first plurality of orientations, sensing a charge level of the at least one accessory, when the charge level is below a predetermined threshold, and switching between sensing the charge level of the at least one accessory and charging the at least one accessory with a power source of the device.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first connector comprises a first plurality of contacts, and the second connector comprises a second plurality of contacts. In some embodiments, a number of contacts in the first plurality of contacts is equal to a number of contacts in the second plurality of contacts. In some embodiments, the first plurality of contacts includes a first center contact and two first auxiliary contacts, and wherein the second plurality of contacts includes a second center contact and two second auxiliary contacts. In some embodiments, the first center contact is configured to interact with the second center contact, and one or the other of the two first auxiliary contacts is configured to interact with one or the other of the two auxiliary contacts.

[0007] In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving a monitored current from a current sensor of the at least one accessory, when the monitored current is below a current threshold, turning off the power source, and activating a sensing unit of the device, wherein the sensing unit is configured to sense the charge level of the at least one accessory.

[0008] In some embodiments, the at least one accessory further comprises a battery and an accessory processor, and wherein the method further includes transmitting a charge request from the accessory processor to the device processor, transmitting the charge level from the accessory processor to the device processor, when the charge level is greater than a second threshold, transmitting a no-charge request to the processor, turning off the power source, and activating a communication line between the device and the at least one accessory with the device processor. In some embodiments, the communication line between the device and the at least one accessory is facilitated with a first single-wire bus on the device and a second single-wire bus on the at least one accessory.

[0009] In some embodiments, the device includes a first switching circuit, the accessory includes a second switching circuit, and switching from sensing the charge level of the at least one accessory to charging the at least one accessory includes transmitting a charge request to the device processor when the charge level is above the predetermined threshold, switching from transmitting the charge request to transmitting a no-charge request with the accessory switching circuit when the no-charge request is received by the device processor, turning off the power source, and activating a communication line between the device and the at least one accessory with the device processor with the second switching circuit.

[0010] This summary is provided to present a selection of concepts in simplified form which are described more fully below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter or to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Description of the drawings

[0011] The foregoing aspects and numerous related advantages of this invention will be more readily appreciated as they are better understood with reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] [Fig. 1 A] [Fig. 1 A] is an example of a system, in accordance with this technology ;

[0013] [Fig. IB] [Fig. IB] is an example of a system, in accordance with the present technology;

[0014] [Fig. IC] [Fig. IC] is a front side perspective view of an exemplary device of the exemplary system of [Fig. 1B], in accordance with the present technology;

[0015] [Fig.lD] [Fig.lD] is a rear side perspective view of the exemplary device of the exemplary system of [Fig.lB], in accordance with the present technology;

[0016] [Fig.lE] [Fig.lE] is a front side perspective view of an exemplary accessory of the exemplary system of [Fig.lB], in accordance with the present technology;

[0017] [Fig.lF] [Fig.lF] is a rear side perspective view of the exemplary accessory of the exemplary system of [Fig.lB], in accordance with the present technology;

[0018] [Fig.2A] [Fig.2A] is an example of a system, in accordance with the present technology;

[0019] [Fig.2B][Fig.2C][Fig.2D][Fig.2E] Figures 2B to 2E show the exemplary system of [Fig.2A] in various orientations, in accordance with the present technology;

[0020] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is an example of a circuit diagram of a system, in accordance with the present technology;

[0021] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is another example of a circuit diagram of a system, in accordance with this technology;

[0022] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is an example of a method, in accordance with the present technology ;

[0023] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is another example of a method, in accordance with the present technology ;

[0024] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is another example of a method, in accordance with the present technology. Detailed description

[0025] A system and associated methods for switching between capture and load of an accessory with a device are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the accessory and the device each include a connector (i.e., a first connector on the device and a second connector on the accessory). In some embodiments, the first connector and the second connector are configured to couple the device and the accessory. In some embodiments, the first connector and the second connector are rotationally symmetrical, i.e., the accessory and / or the device can be oriented in various orientations and still couple to the first connector and the second connector. In operation, when the first connector and the second connector are physically coupled (or brought into contact), the device can switch between sensing a charge level of the accessory and, when the charge level drops to or below a predetermined threshold, charging the accessory.

[0026] In some embodiments, the accessory is at least one of a plurality of accessories. In some embodiments, a device may be packaged and / or sold with a plurality of accessories, each having a second rotationally symmetrical connector. In this manner, the device may switch between capturing and charging each of the plurality of accessories, as desired by a user of the system. For example, the device may be a handle of a hair care device, such as a curling iron or a hairbrush, and each of the plurality of accessories may be a different curling wand or motorized brush head.

[0027] [Fig. 1A] is an example of a system 1000, in accordance with the present technology. In one aspect, disclosed herein is a system 1000, including a device 105 and a plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, HOC. In some embodiments, there may be three accessories in the plurality of accessories, but those skilled in the art should recognize that there may be any number of accessories in the plurality of accessories, including a single accessory. In some embodiments, at least one accessory 110A of the plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, HOC is configured to be coupled to the device 105. In some embodiments, the device 105 is configured to be coupled to any accessory 110A 110B, 110C, of ​​the plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, 110C.

[0028] In operation, when the device 105 is coupled to the at least one accessory 110A, the device 105 is configured to sense a charge level of the at least one accessory 110A. When the charge level is below a predetermined charge threshold, the device 105 switches between sensing the charge level of the at least one accessory 110A and charging the at least one accessory 110A.

[0029] [Fig.lB] is an example of a system 1000, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the device 105 includes a first connector 115. In some embodiments, the at least one accessory 110A (also referred to herein as the "accessory") includes a second connector 125. In some embodiments, the first connector 115 includes a first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 120C, and the second connector 125 includes a second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 130C. In some embodiments, a number of contacts in the first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 120C is equal to a number of contacts in the second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 130C. For example, in some embodiments, the number of contacts in the first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 120C is three and the number of contacts in the second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 130C is three. In some embodiments, the first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 120C is configured to align and interact with the second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 130C.In some embodiments, the first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 120C, the second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 130C, or both, are pins, copper pads, physical connectors, or a combination thereof.

[0030] In operation, the at least one accessory 110A may be coupled to the device 105 in a plurality of orientations, as shown in Figures 2B-2E. In some embodiments, when the device 105 and the at least one accessory 110A are coupled, the device 105 senses a charge level of the accessory 110A, and when the charge level is below a predetermined charge threshold, charges the at least one accessory 110A, as shown and described in detail in Figures 3 and 4.

[0031] [Fig.lC] is a front side perspective view DI of an exemplary device 105 of the exemplary system 1000 of [Fig.lB], in accordance with the present technology. [Fig.lD] is a rear side perspective view D2 of the exemplary device 105 of the exemplary system 1000 of [Fig.lB], in accordance with the present technology.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 145A includes a first center contact 145A and two first auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B. In some embodiments, the first connector 115 is rotationally symmetrical, such that the first connector 115 is configured to mate with a second connector of an accessory (such as accessory 110) in a plurality of orientations, as shown and described in detail in Figures 2B-2E. In some embodiments, the device 105 includes at least a first side (or front side) DI and a second side (or back side) D2. In some embodiments, the first connector 115 is rotationally symmetrical such that the first connector 115 is symmetrical on the first side DI and the second side D2 (i.e., rotationally symmetrical by a 180 degree rotation about the first center contact 145A). In some embodiments, the first connector 115 is rotationally symmetrical about the first center contact 145A. In some embodiments, such as when the first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 145A is greater than three, the first connector 115 may be rotationally symmetrical from more than just the first side DI and the second side D2. In such embodiments, the first connector 115 may be configured to mate with an accessory in any rotational orientation (such as a 90-degree rotation, a 15-degree rotation, or the like about the first center contact 145A). Accordingly, both the first connector and the second connector may have 2-fold, 3-fold, 4-fold, 5-fold, 6-fold, or n-fold rotational symmetry.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first center contact 145A is configured to establish a communication link and / or a charging link between the device 105 and an accessory (such as the accessory 110). In some embodiments, the first center contact 145A may be a ground, as shown in [Fig. 5].

[0034] In some embodiments, the first auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B are configured to provide power to two second auxiliary contacts of an accessory (as shown in Figures 1E-1F). In some embodiments, the first two auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B are positive terminals, as shown in [Fig. 3]. In some embodiments, the first two auxiliary contacts 120A and 120B are configured to provide power from a power supply of the device 105 to the accessory, as shown in [Fig. 3]. In some embodiments, the first two auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B are grounds, as shown in [Fig. 4].

[0035] [Fig.lE] is a front side perspective view A1 of an exemplary accessory 110 of the exemplary system 1000 of [Fig.lB], in accordance with the present technology. [Fig.lF] is a rear side perspective view A2 of the exemplary accessory 110 of the exemplary system 1000 of [Fig.lB], in accordance with the present technology.

[0036] In some embodiments, the second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 145B includes a second center contact 145B and two second auxiliary contacts 130A, 130B. In some embodiments, the second connector 125 is rotationally symmetrical, such that the second connector 125 is configured to mate with a first connector of a device (such as the device 105) in a plurality of orientations, as shown and described in detail in Figures 2B-2E. In some embodiments, the accessory includes at least a first side (or front side) A1 and a second side (or back side) A2. In some embodiments, the second connector 125 is rotationally symmetrical such that the second connector 125 is symmetrical about the first side A1 and the second side A2 (i.e., sy rotational metric by a 180 degree rotation about the second center contact 145B). In some embodiments, the second connector 125 is rotationally symmetrical about the second center contact 145B. In some embodiments, such as when the second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 145B is greater than three, the second connector 125 may be rotationally symmetrical from more than just the first side A1 and the second side A2. In such embodiments, the second connector 125 may be configured to couple to a device in any rotational orientation (such as a 90 degree rotation, a 15 degree rotation, or the like about the second center contact 145B).

[0037] In some embodiments, the second center contact 145B is configured to establish a communication link between the device 105 and an accessory (such as the accessory 110). In some embodiments, the second center contact 145B is a ground.

[0038] In some embodiments, the two second auxiliary contacts 130A, 130B are configured to receive power to two first auxiliary contacts of a device (as shown in Figures 1E-1F). In some embodiments, the two second auxiliary contacts 130A, 130B are positive terminals, as shown in [Fig. 3]. In some embodiments, the two second auxiliary contacts 130A, 130B are configured to receive power from two first auxiliary contacts of a device to the accessory 110 or a battery of the accessory as shown in Figures 3 and 4. In some embodiments, the two second auxiliary contacts 130A and 130B are grounds, as shown in [Fig. 4].

[0039] [Fig. 2A] is an example of a system 2000, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the system 2000 includes a device 205 and an accessory 210. In some embodiments, the device 105 includes a first center contact 245A, two first auxiliary contacts 220A, 220B and two first fasteners 235A, 235B. In some embodiments, the accessory 210 includes a second center contact 245B, two second auxiliary contacts 230A, 230B and two second fasteners 240A, 240B.

[0040] In some embodiments, the first center contact 145A is configured to couple to the second center contact 145B, and one or the other of the first auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B is configured to couple to one or the other of the second auxiliary contacts 130A, 130B, as shown in Figures 2B-2E.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first fasteners 235A, 235B and / or the second fasteners 240A, 240B may be magnets, clasps, catches, pins, connectors having a male or female component, a combination thereof, or the like. In some embodiments, the first fasteners 235A, 235B are rotationally symmetrical about the first center contact 245A, and the second fasteners 240A, 240B are rotationally symmetrical about the second center contact 245B, such that the first fasteners 235A, 235B and the second fasteners 240A, 240B can mate in any number of orientations, as shown in Figures 2B-2E.

[0042] In operation, when the device 105 and the at least one accessory 110A, 110B, HOC are coupled, the first connector 115 contacts the second connector 125. In some embodiments, the first fasteners 235A, 235B and the second fasteners 240A, 240B are configured to couple in various orientations, as shown in Figures 2B-2E.

[0043] Figures 2B-2E show the example system of [Fig. 2A], with the accessory and device coupled in a plurality of orientations, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the device 205 and the accessory 210 may couple to the first connector 115 and the second connector 125 in a plurality of orientations, such as with a front side A1 of the accessory in a co-plane with a front side of the device DI ([Fig. 2B]), a rear side A2 of the accessory in a co-plane with a front side of the device DI ([Fig. 2C]), a front side A1 of the accessory in a co-plane with a rear side of the device D2 ([Fig. 2C]), and a rear side A2 of the accessory in a co-plane with a rear side of the device D2 ([Fig. 2E]).

[0044] Those skilled in the art should understand that depending on the design of the device 105, the accessory 110, the first connector 115, and the second connector 125, any number of sides and / or orientations may be possible. For example, in an embodiment where the first connector 115 and the second connector 125 include a first center contact 145A, and a plurality of first auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B arranged in a first ring, and a second center contact 1245B, and a plurality of second auxiliary contacts 130A, 130B arranged in a second ring, the device 105 and the accessory 110 could each be rotated, independently or in tandem, while still allowing the first connector 115A and the second connector 115B to be coupled.Further, those skilled in the art should understand that the device 105 and / or the accessory 110 may have any number of sides, and these sides may be flat, curved, rounded, beveled, labeled, organically shaped, geometrically shaped, and / or include one or more planes. In some embodiments, the first side DI of the device and the second side D2 of the device are distinct from each other in color, shape, size, or the like. Similarly, in some embodiments, the first side A1 of the accessory and the second side A2 of the accessory are distinct from each other in color, shape, size, or the like. In some embodiments, the first side DI of the device is substantially . identical to the second side DI of the device, and / or the first side Al of the accessory is substantially identical to the second side A2 of the accessory.

[0045] [Fig. 3] is an exemplary circuit diagram of a system 3000, in accordance with the present technology. Those skilled in the art should understand that the circuit diagram may be incorporated into the system 1000 or 2000 as described and shown herein. Further, the system 3000 may be incorporated in any orientation shown in Figures 2B-2E or otherwise described herein.

[0046] In some embodiments, the system 3000 includes a device 305 and an accessory 310. In some embodiments, the accessory 310 includes a second connector 325. In some embodiments, the second connector 325 includes a plurality of contacts 330A, 330B, 345B. In some embodiments, the plurality of contacts 330A, 330B, 345B includes a second center contact 345B and two second auxiliary contacts 330A, 330B.

[0047] In some embodiments, the device 305 includes a first connector 315. In some embodiments, the first connector 315 includes a plurality of contacts 320A, 320B, 345A. In some embodiments, the plurality of contacts includes a first central contact 345A and two first auxiliary contacts 320A, 320B. In some embodiments, the device 305 includes a processor 355, a switching circuit 360, a power source 365, a sensing circuit (or sensing unit) 370, and a current sensor 375.

[0048] In some embodiments, the first auxiliary contacts 320A, 320B and the second auxiliary contacts 330A, 330B are positive terminals, indicated by "V+" in [Fig. 3]. In some embodiments, the first two auxiliary contacts 120A and 120B are configured to provide power from a power supply 365 of the device 105 to the accessory 110. In some embodiments, the second center contact 345B is a ground (GND).

[0049] In some embodiments, the first center contact 345A is communicatively and / or physically coupled to the switching circuit 360 and the sensing circuit 370. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 360 is a relay circuit, a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET), or the like. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 360 is communicatively and / or physically coupled to the current sensor 375.

[0050] In operation, when the first connector 315 is coupled to the second connector 325, the first center contact 345A and the second center contact 345B are communicatively and / or physically connected. In some embodiments, the first two auxiliary contacts 320A, 320B communicatively and / or physically connect to the second two auxiliary contacts 330A, 330B. In some embodiments, the first connector 315 and the second connector 325 are re rotating ciprocals. Accordingly, in some embodiments, either of the first auxiliary contacts 320A, 320B may communicatively and / or physically connect to either of the second auxiliary contacts 330A, 330B, as shown in Figures 2B-2E. In some embodiments, the first center contact 345A and the second center contact 345B are configured to switch between a charging line (i.e., to facilitate charging of the accessory 310) and a communication line (i.e., to facilitate sensing the charge level (or charge level sensing state) of the accessory 310) based on the measured charge level.

[0051] When the first connector 315 and the second connector 325 couple, the sensing unit 370 senses a charge level of the accessory 310. In some embodiments, when the charge level is below a predetermined threshold (also referred to herein as the first predetermined charge threshold), the switching circuit 360 switches to charging the accessory by activating the power source 365. In some embodiments, the power source 365 charges the accessory via a connection between a first auxiliary pin 220A, 220B and a second auxiliary pin 230A, 230B. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is when the charge level is at or about 0, i.e., when the accessory 310 is "dead" or otherwise unable to operate. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is at or about a percentage of a total charge level of the accessory, such as 5%, 10%, or 15%.

[0052] In some embodiments, the current sensor 375 is configured to monitor a power draw from the at least one accessory 310. In some embodiments, when the charge level is at or below a predetermined threshold, the power source 365 is activated, and the current sensor 375 then senses the power draw. When the power draw is at or below a current threshold, the switching circuit 360 switches from the power source 365 to the sensing unit 370. In some embodiments, the current threshold is reached when no power draw (or zero draw) is measured by the current sensor 375.

[0053] [Fig. 4] is another example of a circuit diagram of a system 4000, in accordance with the present technology. Those skilled in the art should understand that the circuit diagram may be incorporated into the system 1000 or 2000 as described and shown herein. Further, the system 4000 may be incorporated in any orientation shown in Figures 2B-2E or otherwise described herein.

[0054] In some embodiments, the device 405 includes a device processor (or first processor) 455A, a first switching circuit 460, a power source 465, and a first single-wire bus 470A. In some embodiments lization, the accessory 410 includes a battery 475, a power line monitoring device 480, a second switching circuit 460B and a second single-wire bus 470B.

[0055] Those skilled in the art should understand that, as described herein, the first single-wire bus 470A and the second single-wire bus 470B may be main / agent buses that communicate via a single signal wire and a ground (such as the first center contact 145A and the second center contact 145B, respectively). The device and / or accessory may communicate on the first single-wire bus 470A and the second single-wire bus 470B, respectively, by pulling a signal to ground and sampling a logic level of the signal line.

[0056] In operation, when the first connector 415 is coupled to the second connector 425, the first center contact 445A and the second center contact 445B are communicatively and / or physically connected. In some embodiments, the first two auxiliary contacts 420A, 420B communicatively and / or physically connect with the second two auxiliary contacts 430A, 430B. In some embodiments, the first connector 415 and the second connector 425 are rotationally reciprocal. Accordingly, in some embodiments, either of the first auxiliary contacts 420A, 420B may communicatively and / or physically connect with either of the second auxiliary contacts 430A, 430B, as shown in Figures 2B-2E.In some embodiments, the first center contact 445A and the second center contact 445B are configured to switch between a charging line (i.e., to facilitate charging of the accessory 410) and a communication line (i.e., to facilitate sensing the charge level of the accessory 410) based on the measured charge level.

[0057] In some embodiments, the first auxiliary contacts 420A, 420B and the second auxiliary contacts 430A, 430B are grounds, indicated by "GND" in [Fig. 4]. In some embodiments, the first center contact 445A and the second center contact 445B are positive terminals, "V+".

[0058] In operation, when the first connector 415 couples to the second connector 425, the device processor 455A receives a charge level sensed by the power line monitor 480, and when the charge level is below the predetermined charge threshold, the device 405 switches between communicating with the at least one accessory 410 and charging the battery 475 of the at least one accessory 410. In some embodiments, the device processor 455A is further configured to, when the charge level is below the predetermined charge threshold, turn off (or switch from) the power source 465, and activate the first single-wire bus 470A. In some embodiments, the accessory processor 455B is configured to receive a charge level charging of the power line monitoring device 480, and when the charge level is below a predetermined charge threshold, transmit the charge level to the device processor 455A. In some embodiments, when the charge level is above the predetermined threshold, the second switching circuit 460B switches to the second single-wire bus 470B and communicates with the device processor 455A to stop charging the battery 475.

[0059] In some embodiments, the accessory processor 455B is configured to transmit a charge request to the device processor 455A. In some embodiments, when the charge level is above or at a second threshold, a no-charge request is transmitted from the accessory processor 455B to the device processor 455A. In some embodiments, the no-charge request is the absence of a charge request.

[0060] [Fig. 5] is an example of a method 500, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the method 500 may be performed with the system 1000, 2000, 3000 and / or 4000 as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the system includes a device (such as device 105, 205, 305, 405) and an accessory (such as accessory 110, 210, 310, 410). In some embodiments, the device includes a first connector (such as first connector 115, 215, 315, 415) and the accessory has a second connector (such as second connector 125, 225, 325, 425). In some embodiments, the first connector and / or the second connector are rotationally symmetrical, such that the device and the accessory can be coupled in a plurality of orientations, as shown in Figures 2B-2E.

[0061] At block 505, a charge level of the accessory is sensed. In some embodiments, the charge level is sensed with a sensing unit, such as sensing unit 370, in [Fig. 3]. In some embodiments, sensing unit 370 is communicatively coupled to a first center contact (such as first center contact 145A, 245A, 345A, 445A) and / or a device processor (such as processor 355).

[0062] At decision block 510, it is determined whether the charge level of the accessory is less than a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is when the charge level of the accessory is at or about zero. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is less than a charge level, such as less than about 5%, 10%, or 15% charge. If the charge is less than the predetermined threshold, the method proceeds to block 515A.

[0063] At block 515A, the accessory is charged. In some embodiments, the accessory is charged by switching from the pickup unit to a power source (such as power source 365) with a switching circuit (such as switching circuit 360). In some embodiments, the switching circuit activates the power source to begin charging the accessory. In some embodiments, the power source is communicatively coupled to one of the first two auxiliary contacts (such as the first two auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B, 220A, 220B, 320A, 320B, 420A, 420B).

[0064] At decision block 520, after charging the accessory, it is determined whether the charge level is greater than the predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the charge level is captured after a predetermined charging time. If the charge level is not greater than the predetermined threshold, the method returns to block 515A. If the charge level is greater than the predetermined threshold, the method proceeds to block 515B.

[0065] At block 515B, the charge level of the accessory is sensed. In some embodiments, the switching circuit switches from the current sensor to the sensing unit.

[0066] Returning to block 510, if the charge level is not less than the predetermined threshold, the method proceeds to block 515B.

[0067] [Fig. 6] is another example of a method 600, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the method 500 may be performed with the system 1000, 2000, 3000 and / or 4000 as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the method includes a device (such as device 105, 205, 305, 405) and an accessory (such as accessory 110, 210, 310, 410). In some embodiments, the device includes a first connector (such as first connector 115, 215, 315, 415) and the accessory has a second connector (such as second connector 125, 225, 325, 425). In some embodiments, the first connector and / or the second connector are rotationally symmetrical, such that the device and the accessory can be coupled in a plurality of orientations, as shown in Figures 2B-2E.

[0068] At block 610, a monitored current from a current sensor (such as current sensor 375) is received from the at least one accessory. In some embodiments, the current sensor is communicatively coupled to a switching circuit (such as switching circuit 360). In some embodiments, the switching circuit switches between a sensing unit and the switching circuit.

[0069] At block 610, the monitored current is transmitted to a processor (such as device processor 365).

[0070] At decision block 615, it is determined whether a power draw is at or below a current threshold. In some embodiments, the current threshold is when the current sensor is no longer sensing a power draw. In some embodiments, this occurs when the accessory is fully charged, i.e., when a charge level of the accessory is at 100%. In some embodiments, the charge level is detected or sensed after a predetermined time has elapsed, such as 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or one hour. When the power draw is greater than the current threshold, the method returns to block 610. When the power draw is at or below the current threshold, the method proceeds to block 620.

[0071] At block 620, the power source is turned off. In some embodiments, a switching circuit switches from the power source to the sensing circuit.

[0072] At block 625, the pickup circuit is activated.

[0073] [Fig. 7] is another example method 700, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the method includes a device (such as device 105, 205, 305, 405) and an accessory (such as accessory 110, 210, 310, 410). In some embodiments, the device includes a first connector (such as first connector 115, 215, 315, 415) and the accessory has a second connector (such as second connector 125, 225, 325, 425). In some embodiments, the first connector and / or the second connector are rotationally symmetrical, such that the device and the accessory can be coupled in a plurality of orientations, as shown in Figures 2B-2E.

[0074] At decision block 720, it is determined whether the charge level is at or below a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is when the charge level of the accessory is at or about zero. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is below a charge level, such as below about 5%, 10%, or 15% charge. If the charge level is above the predetermined threshold, the method proceeds to block 705. If the charge is below the predetermined threshold, the method proceeds to block 715.

[0075] At block 715, a charge request is transmitted. In some embodiments, the charge request is transmitted from an accessory processor (such as accessory processor 355B) to a device processor (such as device processor 355A).

[0076] At decision block 720, it is determined whether a charge level is greater than a second threshold. In some embodiments, when the charge level is not greater than the second threshold, the method returns to block 715. If the charge level is greater than the second threshold, the method proceeds to block 725.

[0077] At block 725, a no-charge request is transmitted. In some embodiments, the no-charge request is simply that the charge request is not transmitted. In some embodiments, the no-charge request is transmitted from the accessory processor to the device processor.

[0078] At block 730, a power source (such as power source 365) is cut off. In some embodiments, a switching circuit (such as switching circuit 360A) switches from the power source to the collection circuit.

[0079] At block 735, a communication line between the device and the accessory is activated. In some embodiments, the communication line is established between the first center contact (such as first center contact 345A, 445A) and the second center contact (such as second center contact 345B, 445B).

[0080] It should be understood that all methods 500, 600, 700 are to be construed as merely representative. In some embodiments, the process blocks of all methods 500, 600, and 700 may be performed concurrently, sequentially, in a different order, or even omitted, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0081] Although illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it should be appreciated that various changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0082] The present application may refer to quantities and numbers. Unless specifically indicated, these quantities and numbers should not be considered restrictive, but rather representative of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. Also, in this regard, the present application may use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this regard, the term "plurality" is intended to be any number greater than one, e.g., two, three, four, five, etc. The terms "about," "approximately," "near," etc. mean plus or minus 5% of the stated value. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the expression "at least one of A, B, and C," for example, means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C), including all other possible permutations when more than three elements are listed.

[0083] Embodiments disclosed herein may utilize circuitry to implement technologies and methodologies described herein, operatively connect two or more components, generate information, determine operating conditions, control an apparatus, device, or method, and / or the like. Circuitry of any type may be utilized. In one embodiment, the circuitry includes, among other things, one or more computing devices such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like, or any combination thereof, and may include separate digital or analog circuit elements or electronics, or combinations thereof.

[0084] One embodiment includes one or more data stores that, for example, store instructions or data. Non-limiting examples of one or more data stores include volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and the like), non-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), and the like), persistent memory, or the like. Other non-limiting examples of one or more data stores include erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, or the like. The one or more data stores may be connected, for example, to one or more computing devices by one or more instruction, data, or power buses.

[0085] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes a computer-readable media player or memory slot configured to accept a signal-carrying medium (e.g., computer-readable memory medium, computer-readable recording medium, or the like). In one embodiment, a program for causing a system to perform any of the disclosed methods may be stored, for example, on a computer-readable recording medium (CRMM), a signal-carrying medium, or the like.Non-limiting examples of signal-carrying media include a recordable-type medium such as any form of flash memory, magnetic tape, floppy disk, hard disk, compact disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc, digital tape, computer memory, or the like, as well as a transmission-type medium such as a digital and / or analog communication medium (e.g., fiber optic cable, waveguide, wired communication link, wireless communication link (e.g., transmitter, receiver, transceiver, transmit logic, receive logic, etc.).Other non-limiting examples of signal-carrying media include, but are not limited to, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, DVD-R, DVD+R, CD-ROM, Super Audio CD, CD-R, CD+R, CD+RW, CD-RW, video compact discs, super video discs, flash memory, magnetic tape, magneto-optical disc, MINIDISC, non-volatile memory card, EEPROM, optical disc, optical storage, RAM, ROM, system memory, web server, or the like.

[0086] The detailed description presented above in connection with the accompanying drawings, where like numerals refer to like elements, is intended to be a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in the present disclosure is offered solely by way of example or illustration and should not be construed as being preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be ex exhaustive nor limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Similarly, any steps described herein may be interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, to achieve the same or substantially similar result. In general, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limiting, and the inventors contemplate that other embodiments within the scope of this disclosure may include structures and features from more than one specific embodiment illustrated in the Figures and described in the specification.

[0087] In the foregoing description, specific details are presented to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without incorporating all of the specific details. In some instances, well-known process steps have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any combination of features described herein.

[0088] The present application may include references to directions, such as "vertical", "horizontal", "front", "back", "left", "right", "upper" and "lower", etc. These references, and other similar references in the present application, are intended to assist in describing and understanding the particular embodiment (such as when the embodiment is positioned for use) and are not intended to limit the present disclosure to these directions or locations.

[0089] The present application may also refer to quantities and numbers. Unless specifically indicated, these quantities and numbers should not be considered restrictive, but as examples of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. Also, in this regard, the present application may use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this regard, the term "plurality" is intended to be any number greater than one, e.g., two, three, four, five, etc. The term "about," "approximately," etc. means within plus or minus 5% of the stated value. The term "based on" means "based at least partially on."

[0090] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been described in the foregoing description. However, aspects of the present disclosure, which are intended to be protected, should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. It should be appreciated that variations and changes may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly provided that all such variations, changes and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as claimed.

Claims

Claims

1. A system, comprising: - a device including a first connector rotationally symmetrical with respect to a second connector of an accessory, the second connector being configured to electrically and physically couple to the first connector in a plurality of orientations; and - a processor configured to: O activate a charge level detection state when the first connector and the accessory are electrically and physically coupled; O determine a charge level of the accessory; O when the charge level is below a first predetermined charge threshold level, switch to a charge state configured to charge the accessory by electrically coupling the accessory to a power source; and O switch back to the charge level detection state when the charge level reaches or exceeds the first predetermined charge threshold level.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein a first plurality of contacts of the first connector have a rotational symmetry of 2 times, 3 times, 4 times, 5 times, 6 times or n times with a corresponding second plurality of contacts of the second connector.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein a number of contacts in the first plurality of contacts is equal to a number of contacts in the second plurality of contacts.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein - the first plurality of contacts includes a first central contact and two first auxiliary contacts, and - wherein the second plurality of contacts comprises a second central contact and two second auxiliary contacts.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein - the first central contact is configured to couple to the second central contact, and - one or other of the first auxiliary contacts is configured to couple to one or other of the second auxiliary contacts.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the device further includes: - a current sensor configured to monitor a current of at least an accessory; and - a sensing unit configured to sense the load of at least one accessory, - wherein the processor is further configured to: O receive the monitored current from the current sensor; O when the monitored current is below a current threshold, O cut off the power source; and O activate the sensing unit.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the first center contact and the second center contact switch between a load line and a communication line based on the measured charge level.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one accessory further includes a battery and a power line monitoring device, and - wherein when the first connector contacts the second connector, the processor is further configured to: O receive a charge level sensed by the power line monitoring device; and O when the charge level is below the first predetermined charge threshold, O switch between communicating with at least one accessory and charging the battery of at least one accessory.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the device further comprises a first switching circuit and a first single-wire bus, and wherein the processor is further configured to: - when the charge level is below the first predetermined charge threshold, cut off the power source; and - activate the first single-wire bus.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein at least one accessory further comprises a second switching circuit and a second single-wire bus, and an accessory processor, wherein the accessory processor is configured to: - receive a charge level from the power line monitoring device; - when the charge level is below the first predetermined charge threshold, transmit the charge level to the first processor; and - when the charge level is above a second predetermined charge threshold, switch to the second single-wire bus, and - communicate with the first processor to stop charging the battery.

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