Object detection technology for multi-function hobs

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a system, method, and apparatus for object detection techniques in a multi-function hob device. In an induction heating mode, the device can support induction heating of an induction heating device (such as a cooking vessel or utensil). In a wireless power transfer (WPT) mode, the device can support wireless power transfer to a power receiving device. The device may be capable of performing different object detection techniques to detect an induction heating device, a wireless power receiving device (PRx), or a foreign object (FO). According to the present disclosure, a controller can control the timing of each instance of the different object detection techniques such that the object detection techniques are used at different times. In some implementations, the object detection techniques are adjusted to improve detection accuracy of the FO, PRx, or induction heating device.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a multifunction hob having a device supporting an induction heating mode and a wireless power transmission mode. More specifically, the present application relates to the coordination of object detection techniques associated with the various modes supported by the device. [Background technology]

[0002] Induction cookers (such as kitchen hobs) have been developed to allow for induction heating of cooking vessels or appliances. For example, a hob may include several "burner" positions where a user can place the cooking vessel or appliance to be heated using induction heating. In a conventional hob, an electric or gas heat source is used to heat the cooking vessel that is in contact with the heat source. In contrast, in an induction cooker, an electromagnetic field may be generated by one or more coils (sometimes called induction coils) to heat the cooking vessel. During induction heating, the electromagnetic field induces currents in the metal surface of the cooking vessel or appliance. The induced currents in the surface of the cooking vessel or appliance induce further currents (sometimes called eddy currents) in the cooking vessel, thereby providing heat throughout the cooking vessel.

[0003] Meanwhile, in another technical field, technologies have been developed that allow wireless power transmission from a power transmitting device (sometimes referred to as a "wireless power transmitting device") to a power receiving device (sometimes referred to as a "wireless power receiving device"). The power receiving device may be included in various types of devices, such as mobile devices, small electronic devices, computers, tablets, gadgets, appliances (such as cordless blenders, kettles, mixers, etc.), and some types of larger electronic devices, among other examples. Wireless power transmission may be referred to as contactless power transfer or contactless power transfer. Wireless power may be transferred using inductive or resonant coupling between the power transmitting device and the power receiving device. For example, the power transmitting device may include one or more coils that generate an electromagnetic field. When the secondary coil is placed in close proximity to the primary coil, the electromagnetic field can induce an electromotive force in the secondary coil of the power receiving device. In this configuration, the electromagnetic field can wirelessly transfer power to the secondary coil.

[0004] Since induction heating and wireless power transmission have some common elements and applications in the kitchen, it is desirable to provide a multi-function hob that supports both induction heating and wireless power transmission modes. However, there is a risk of damage or disabling if the multi-function hob uses the wrong mode for the powered device or cooking vessel. Also, eddy currents can heat up foreign metals (such as keys, coins, metal cans, or aluminum foil, among other examples) when they are in close proximity to the electromagnetic field. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The systems, methods, and devices of the present disclosure each have several innovative aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for the desirable attributes disclosed herein.

[0006] One innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure may be implemented as an apparatus. For example, it may be a power transmitting device (PTx) associated with a first position of a multifunction hob. The apparatus may include one or more coils capable of generating a magnetic field for induction heating or wireless power transmission according to an induction heating mode or a wireless power transmission mode, respectively. The apparatus may include one or more object detection units configured to perform a plurality of object detection techniques including at least an induction heating device detection technique, a wireless power receiving device (PRx) detection technique, and a foreign object (FO) detection technique. The apparatus may include a controller configured to cause the one or more object detection units to perform instances of the plurality of object detection techniques, such that each instance is performed at a different time than the other instances. The controller may be further configured to control the one or more coils to generate a magnetic field for the induction heating mode or the wireless power transmission mode based at least in part on the results of the plurality of object detection techniques.

[0007] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented as a method. The method can include implementing, by one or more detection units, a plurality of object detection techniques including at least an inductive heating device detection technique, a wireless power receiving device (PRx) detection technique, and a foreign object (FO) detection technique. The method can include causing the one or more detection units to execute instances of the plurality of object detection techniques, such that each instance is executed at a different time than the other instances. The method can include controlling, at least in part, one or more coils of the device to generate a magnetic field for inductive heating or wireless power transmission according to an inductive heating mode or a wireless power transmission mode, respectively, based at least in part on results of the plurality of object detection techniques. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] The details of one or more embodiments of the subject matter described in this disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, aspects, and advantages will become apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. It should be noted that the relative dimensions of the following figures may not be drawn to scale. [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an exemplary multifunction hob and an exemplary object. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary power transmission device (PTx) that can be used in a first position of a multifunction hob. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary PTx for use in a multifunction hob. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates an exemplary object detection technique. [Diagram 5] 13 illustrates an example timing diagram in which the timing of different object detection techniques is not coordinated by a controller. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates an example timing diagram in which the timing of different object detection techniques is coordinated by a controller. [Figure 7] A conceptual diagram is shown to explain how the results of one type of object detection technique can change the behavior of another type of object detection technique. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart diagram of an example process involving multiple types of object detection techniques. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart diagram of an exemplary process associated with a PTx in a multifunction hob, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary apparatus for use in a multifunction hob.

[0009] Like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] The present disclosure provides a system, method, and device for object detection technology associated with a multi-function hob device. In an induction heating mode, the device can support induction heating of an induction heating device (such as a cooking vessel or utensil). In a wireless power transmission (WPT) mode, the device can support wireless power transmission to a wireless power receiving device (PRx). For brevity, the present disclosure may refer to the device as a power transmitting device (PTx) since it supports the wireless power transmission mode. It should be understood that the disclosed PTx may differ from a conventional PTx in that it is configured to also support an induction heating mode when a suitable induction heating device is placed in proximity to one or more coils of the PTx.

[0011] Since the PTx of the present disclosure supports both induction heating and wireless power transmission, it is desirable to detect different types of objects that may be placed in proximity to one or more coils of the PTx. Examples of the first type of object may include a pot, pan, wok, or any cooking vessel or utensil for which an induction heating mode is appropriate. These may be referred to as induction heating devices. Examples of the second type of object may include a mobile device, a small electronic device, a computer, a tablet, a gadget, an appliance (such as a cordless blender, kettle, mixer, etc.), or any type of device including a PRx for which a wireless power transmission mode is appropriate. Another type of object that may be inadvertently located within the operating environment of the PTx may be referred to as a foreign object. Non-limiting examples of foreign objects may include ferrous objects, metal cans, coins, metal spoons, keys, aluminum foil, or other conductive or ferrous objects that are not induction heating devices or PRx. If a foreign object (FO) is in proximity to the magnetic field of the PRx, the foreign object may interact with the magnetic field and become undesirably heated. It is therefore desirable to detect what type of object (induction heating device, PRx, or FO) is present in the operating environment of the PTx.

[0012] According to aspects of the present disclosure, the PTx may be capable of performing different object detection techniques to detect an induction heating device, a PRx, or an FO. The different object detection techniques may include at least an induction heating device detection technique, a PRx detection technique, and an FO detection technique. Each of the different object detection techniques may include routines or processes capable of detecting different types of objects. It has been discovered that some types of object detection techniques may adversely affect or impair the results of another type of object detection technique when they are performed simultaneously. For example, if the timing of the different object detection techniques is not properly coordinated, there is a possibility of false detections that may affect the functionality of the multifunction hob. Additionally, the results of one type of object detection technique may modify or negate the need to perform another type of object detection technique.

[0013] Aspects of the disclosure relate to timing and conditions associated with different types of object detection techniques. For example, the controller can control the timing of each instance of the different object detection techniques such that the object detection techniques are used at different times. In some implementations, the object detection techniques are adjusted to improve the accuracy of detecting an induction heating device, a PRx, or a FO. When an induction heating device, a PRx, or a FO is detected by one of the object detection techniques, the controller can adjust which type of object detection technique is subsequently used. Additionally, the controller can operate one or more coils of the PTx according to an induction heating mode, a wireless power transfer mode, or regardless of whether an induction heating device, a PRx, or a FO is detected, respectively.

[0014] Particular implementations of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented to realize one or more of the following potential advantages: The multi-function hob can safely provide both induction heating and wireless power transmission at the appropriate time based on the type of object present in the operating environment of the PTx. Aspects of the present disclosure may enable faster and more accurate detection of various types of objects compared to conventional systems in which different types of object detection technologies are not coordinated. The use of different object detection technologies can prevent damage or dangerous conditions that may result as a result of using induction heating modes with the PRx or foreign objects.

[0015] The following description is directed to specific embodiments for the purpose of illustrating the innovative aspects of the present disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the teachings herein can be applied in many different ways. The described embodiments can be implemented in any means, device, system, or method associated with a multi-function hob or any appliance capable of supporting both induction heating and wireless power transmission.

[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates a conceptual diagram 100 showing an example multifunction hob 110 and an example object. The multifunction hob 110 can include several locations 104 for placing an object. At least one of the locations 104 can include a PTx 120 that supports inductive heating or wireless power transfer to the object when an appropriate object is placed in the location associated with the PTx 120. FIG. 1 illustrates the PTx 120 at one of the locations 104. It should be understood that the multifunction hob 110 can include a PTx in more than one (or all) of the locations 104. In such a scenario, each of the locations 104 that includes a PTx can operate according to the embodiments described herein with reference to the PTx 120. The multifunction hob 110 can include a first user interface 140 having inputs (such as knobs, buttons, or touch screen sensors) for receiving user input or presenting instructions to a user of the multifunction hob 110. In some implementations, the multifunction hob 110 may be referred to as a hob, a countertop, a stove, or other terms that refer to kitchen appliances. Additionally, although the examples described in this disclosure refer to a multifunction hob, aspects of the disclosure may be used with other types of equipment that support both induction heating and wireless power transmission. In some implementations, the multifunction hob may be portable in nature and may include a single PTx. For example, a portable multifunction hob may include a battery or allow for an external power source to power the PTx. In some implementations, a portable multifunction hob (with one or more PTx) may be suitable for camping.

[0017] The PTx 120 may include one or more primary coils. For simplicity, this disclosure will refer to the one or more primary coils as the primary coil 130, but it should be understood that some implementations of the PTx 120 may include multiple primary coils 130. The primary coil 130 is configured to generate a magnetic field for transferring wireless energy to objects within the magnetic field of the primary coil 130. In some implementations, the primary coil 130 may be a wire coil coupled to a driver that applies power to the primary coil 130 during either an inductive heating operation or a wireless power transfer operation.

[0018] The multifunction hob 110 may provide at least one PTx 120 that may support either induction heating or wireless power transmission depending on what type of object is in proximity to the primary coil 130. The primary coil 130 may be referred to as an induction coil, particularly when the PTx 120 is used in an induction heating mode. Additionally or alternatively, the primary coil 130 may be referred to as a power transmission coil, particularly when the PTx 120 is used in a wireless power transmission mode. For the sake of brevity, this disclosure may use the terms "device" and "PTx" interchangeably to collectively refer to devices that support both induction heating and wireless power transmission modes.

[0019] 1 also shows examples 150 of various types of objects that may be placed within the magnetic field of the primary coil 130. In a first example 160, the object may be an inductive heating device 165. In a second example 170, the object may be a wireless power receiving device (PRx) 175. In a third example 180, the object may be a foreign object 190.

[0020] Referring to the first embodiment 160, the induction heating device 165 may be a cooking vessel, utensil, or any other device intended to be heated using induction heating. During induction heating, the primary coil 130 may generate a magnetic field to transfer energy that conducts eddy currents in the ferrous or semi-ferrous surface of the induction heating device 165. The eddy currents conducted in the ferrous or semi-ferrous components of the induction heating device 165 heat the induction heating device 165, thereby heating food or other materials placed within the induction heating device 165.

[0021] Referring to the second example 170, the device may include a PRx 175 having one or more receiving coils (sometimes referred to as secondary coils). The PRx 175 may also have a rectifier that collects power from the magnetic field and uses the power to operate various other components of the device in which the PRx 175 is located. The PRx 175 and the PTx 120 may operate according to a technical standard specification that defines a communication protocol for controlling the amount of power transmitted by the magnetic field.

[0022] It should be clear that induction heating is not the same as wireless power transfer. The purpose of induction heating is to transfer energy that creates eddy currents in the induction heating device 165, but such eddy currents are undesirable in the PRx 175. The purpose of wireless power transfer is to transfer energy that creates electromagnetic potentials in a secondary coil that can be harvested to power components of the device, including the PRx 175.

[0023] Referring to a third example 180, a foreign object 190 (sometimes referred to as a metallic foreign object) may be in the operating environment of the primary coil 130. The FO 190 may be any object that is conductive or has magnetic permeability and is not intended as an induction heating device 165 or PRx 175. When the FO 190 is in the operating environment of the primary coil 130 and the primary coil 130 is generating a magnetic field, the FO 190 may be undesirably heated. If the FO 190 is heated by either induction heating or wireless power transmission, there is a possibility of fire, damage to the PTx 120, or harm to the user. Thus, when the FO 190 is detected, the PTx 120 may discontinue generating the primary magnetic field or otherwise prevent the PTx 120 from transferring a sufficient amount of energy within the FO 190 to heat the FO 190 beyond a safe level.

[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary PTx 200 that can be used in a first position of a multifunction hob. The PTx 200 can be an example of the PTx 120 described with reference to FIG. 1. The PTx 200 can include a primary coil 130 that can generate a magnetic field for induction heating or wireless power transmission, as described with reference to FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the PTx 200 can include one or more communication coils (shown as communication coil 210) that can communicate with a PRx (not shown). For example, the communication coil 210 can be an antenna or coil for use in short-range radio frequency communication (e.g., Near Field Communication, NFC). As described herein, the communication coil 120 can be used in a communication protocol between the PRx and the PTx 200 to control the wireless power transmission mode of the PTx 200.

[0025] In some implementations, the PTx 200 can include a detection device (not shown, sometimes referred to as an object detection mat). In some implementations, the detection device can be integral or coupled with the PTx 200, or can be located within an interface space between the PTx 200 and a potential object that may be located at or near the PTx 200. The detection device can include one or more detection coils 230. For example, the detection device can include different pairs of detection coils 230 that can be used to measure changes in a magnetic field in connection with object detection techniques. Different amounts of magnetic field changes can be sensed by the detection coils and used to detect the presence of a foreign object.

[0026] In some implementations, the PTx 200 may include or be associated with an interface surface 240. The interface surface 240 may define a space between the PTx 200 and an object (not shown) located within the operating environment of the magnetic field generated by the PTx 200. For example, the interface surface 240 may include a surface of the PTx 200 on which a PRx or induction heating device may be located. During induction heating or wireless power transfer, the primary coil 130 may induce a magnetic field through the interface surface into the operating environment in which the induction heating device or PRx is located. Thus, the "operating environment" is defined by the magnetic field within the PTx 200. In some implementations, the interface surface 240 may be glass or a non-ferrous material. In some implementations, the interface surface 240 may be a component of a multi-function hob that includes multiple PTxs such that each PTx is associated with a different location on the interface surface 240.

[0027] FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram 300 of an exemplary PTx 200 for use in a multifunction hob. The PTx 200 may include a primary coil 130, an object detection coil 230, and a communication coil 210, as described with reference to FIG. 2. The PTx 200 may also include a power driver 310 configured to provide power to the primary coil 130 and cause the primary coil 130 to generate a magnetic field for induction heating or wireless power transmission. For example, the power driver 310 may include one or more switches, drivers, series capacitors, rectifiers, or other components. The PTx 200 may also include a controller 350 that controls the components of the power driver 310. For example, the controller 350 may determine an operating point (such as a frequency, voltage, current, or any combination thereof) for the induction heating mode or the wireless power transmission mode. The controller 350 may control the power driver 310 according to the operating point. In some implementations, the controller 350 may be implemented as a microcontroller, a dedicated processor, an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any other suitable electronic device. In some implementations, controller 350 may be dedicated to a particular PTx (such as PTx 200 of FIG. 3). Alternatively or additionally, controller 350 may be used to separately control the operation of multiple PTxs, such as a processor in a multifunction fob having multiple PTxs. The processor in the multifunction fob may implement the functionality of a separate controller for each PTx in the multifunction fob.

[0028] The power supply 302 can provide power to the power driver 310. For example, the power supply 302 can convert alternating current (AC) power to direct current (DC) power. In some implementations, the power supply 302 can include a converter that receives AC power from an external power source (such as a mains power supply) and converts the AC power to DC power used by the power driver 310. In some implementations, a multifunction hob can include a power supply 302 that provides DC power to multiple PTx. Additionally, the power supply 302 can provide operating power to one or more controllers (such as controller 350).

[0029] The PTx 200 may include a communication unit 310 coupled to the communication coil 210. The communication unit 310 may be configured to transmit or receive communications via the communication coil 210. For example, the communication unit 310 may include a modulator or demodulator that converts information into a modulated signal carried by the communication signal transmitted and received by the communication coil 210. The communication coil 210 may include an antenna (such as a loop antenna) or other components for transmitting and receiving wireless communication signals. In some implementations, the communication unit 310 may support short-range radio frequency communication (such as Bluetooth™) or near field communication (NFC). NFC is a technology that transfers data at a carrier frequency of 13.56 MHz. The communication unit 310 may also support any suitable communication protocol. The communication unit 310 may be used to communicate information between the controller 350 and the PRx during wireless power transfer mode. In some implementations, the communication unit may also provide control power for the PRx at startup or during operation. The controller 350 may control the characteristics of the wireless power that the PTx 200 provides to the PRx. For example, the controller 350 can receive information during a handshake process with the PRx. This information can include information about the PRx (such as power rating, load condition, manufacturer, model, or receiver parameters when operating with a standard transmitter, among other examples). The controller 350 can use this information to determine at least one operating point (e.g., frequency, duty cycle, voltage, etc.) for the wireless power to supply to the PRx during wireless power transmission mode. Although not shown in FIG. 3, it is clear that the PRx can include a corresponding communication unit (not shown) and communication coil (not shown) that enable communication between the PRx and the communication unit 310 of the PTx 200. When the PRx is placed on the interface surface of the PTx 200, a Ping of the communication unit 310 via the communication coil 210 may be answered by a response communication from the PRx. The Ping and response communication can form part of a handshake process that includes two-way communication between the PTx 200 and the PRx.Based on the success of the handshake, the controller 350 can determine that a PRx has been detected. Thus, the communication unit 310 and the communication coil 210 can be used in a PRx detection technique to detect the presence of a PRx. In some implementations, the communication unit 310 and the communication coil 210 can be collectively referred to as a PRx detection unit.

[0030] The PTx 200 may also include an induction heater detection unit 320 and a foreign object (FO) detection unit 330. The FO detection unit 330 may be configured to detect foreign objects in the operating environment of the PTx 200 based on measurements of the object detection coil 230. In some implementations, the FO detection unit 330 may be integrated into the controller 350. For example, the FO detection unit 330 may be collocated in the controller 350 or implemented as software. Alternatively or additionally, the FO detection unit 330 may be implemented as a separate system in the PTx 200 or the multifunction hob. For example, the multifunction hob may include a foreign object detection mat (FOD mat) configured to detect foreign objects at any one of a number of PTx locations. In some implementations, the controller 350 may manage the timing of when the FO detection unit 330 performs foreign object detection evaluations at a particular location associated with the PTx 200. In some implementations, the foreign object detection technique is performed by the FO detection unit 330 using the object detection coil 230. This disclosure provides several examples of how the FO detection unit 330 can detect foreign objects, including using active or passive excitation of object detection coils to measure the difference between pairs of object detection coils.

[0031] The induction heater detection unit 320 is shown in FIG. 3 as a separate component. However, in some implementations, the induction heater detection unit 320 may be collocated or integrated with the controller 350. Additionally, in some implementations, the induction heater detection unit 320 may use the primary coil 130 or the object detection coil 230 as part of the induction heater detection technology. The induction heater detection unit 320 may differ from the FO detection unit 320 based on the criteria or conditions that cause the induction heater detection unit 330 to determine that an induction heater has been detected. Thus, the induction heater detection unit 320 and the FO detection unit 330 may be associated with different object detection technologies specific to induction heater detection or FO detection, respectively.

[0032] 4 illustrates example object detection techniques 400. The example object detection techniques 400 are described for educational purposes and are not intended as an exhaustive list of object detection techniques that may be used to detect an induction heating device, a PRx, or an FO. The example object detection techniques 400 include an example induction heating device detection technique 410, an example PRx detection technique 420, and an example FO detection technique 430.

[0033] An exemplary induction heating device detection technique 410 can include a first example 412 in which an induction heating device is detected based on the ringing of the coil current when a pulse voltage is applied to the primary coil 130. For example, the induction heating device detection technique can include applying a detection power pulse (typically less than the power used for induction heating or wireless power transfer) to the primary coil or object detection coil. If an induction heating device is present, the current in the primary coil 130 will settle to a zero value in a short period of time (e.g., less than a threshold time), whereas if an induction heating device is not present, the current in the primary coil 130 will oscillate and settle to zero after a longer period of time (e.g., greater than a threshold time). In essence, this current and time measurement is used to determine the presence of an induction heating device.

[0034] In a second example 414 of an exemplary induction heating device detection technique 410, the induction heating device detection unit may determine that a cooking vessel or utensil has been detected by comparing a detected power characteristic of the primary coil to a predefined signature associated with the induction heating device. For example, the predefined signature may include a resistance or inductance characteristic of the coil primary that changes as a result of the cooking vessel or utensil being placed in the operating environment. If a characteristic change is detected, the induction heating device detection unit may determine that an induction heating device has been detected.

[0035] There may be other exemplary induction heating device detection techniques not shown in Figure 4. The induction heating device detection techniques may be referred to as pan detection, pan sensing, or any other term that refers to detecting an induction heating device intended for use with induction heating.

[0036] An exemplary PRx detection technique 420 can include a communication handshake between the PTx and the PRx 422. For example, the communication handshake can include the PTx receiving a communication from the PRx indicating that the PRx implements a technical standard specification for wireless power transmission. The communication handshake 422 can be one PRx detection technique, although there may be other PRx detection techniques that can be used to verify that the object is a valid PRx intended for use with wireless power transmission.

[0037] The exemplary FO detection technique 430 may include a first example 432 in which a foreign object is detected based on a non-uniform change in the object detection coil when detection power is applied to the primary coil or the object detection coil. For example, the FO detection technique may include an operation of applying detection power (typically less than the power used for induction heating or wireless power transmission) to either the primary coil or the object detection coil. The FO detection unit may measure detection values ​​that represent the difference between the pair of object detection coils. For example, each detection value may indicate, among other things, a differential current, a differential voltage, a differential inductance, or a frequency response for the pair of object detection coils when detection power is applied to either the primary coil or the object detection coil. If the detection values ​​of many pairs of detection coils indicate a non-uniform change due to detection power, the FO detection unit may determine that a foreign object is detected. In some implementations, the FO detection unit may compare each detection value to a detection threshold to determine whether a foreign object is near one of the detection coils in the coil pair. In some implementations, the FO detection unit may determine the number of pairs of detection coils having detection values ​​that indicate the presence of a metal object. If fewer (e.g., less than a threshold amount) of coil pairs have detection values ​​indicating the presence of a metal object, the metal object may be determined to be a foreign object. Conversely, if more (e.g., more than a threshold amount) of coil pairs detect the presence of a metal object, the FO detection unit may determine that the metal object is an induction heating device or PRx.

[0038] In an embodiment using active excitation, the FO detection unit can have a driver (not shown) use a high frequency (higher than the frequency typically used for the primary magnetic field, such as, by way of example, 200 kHz or higher) to excite the pair of detection coils. The coil pair can be coupled in a parallel circuit to a driver that simultaneously excites the detection coils of the coil pair. If present, a metal object can cause the first detection coil to experience a different impedance or current compared to the second detection coil (when the metal object is not present). The FO detection unit can determine that a metal object is present near the first or second detection coil by comparing the current flowing through the first and second detection coils. The difference in current drawn by the coil pair may be referred to as the detection value.

[0039] In an embodiment using passive excitation, the FO detection unit can observe a voltage induced in the detection coil based on the magnetic field generated by the primary coil. The detection coils of a coil pair may be connected in series and terminated by a known impedance. When the primary coil is excited by the PTx, the magnetic field generated by the primary coil can induce a voltage in the detection coil of the coil pair. When no foreign object is present, the voltages in the detection coils are uniform and can be effectively cancelled out. Conversely, when a foreign object is present, the voltages in the detection coils are non-uniform, resulting in a measurable differential voltage.

[0040] Another example 343 of an exemplary FO detection technique 430 can use measurements from a proximity detection sensor. The proximity detection sensor can detect the proximity of a metal object in the operating environment of the PTx. As described herein, the metal object can be determined to be a foreign object if it does not match a characteristic associated with the induction heating device or the PRx.

[0041] FIG. 5 illustrates an example timing diagram 500 in which the timing of different object detection techniques is not coordinated by the controller. For example, a first timing diagram 510 illustrates the timing of an instance (such as instance 512) of an induction heating device detection technique. A second timing diagram 520 illustrates the timing of an instance (such as instance 522) of a PRx detection technique. A third timing diagram 530 illustrates the timing of an instance (such as instance 532) of an FO detection technique. Each of the timing diagrams 510, 520, and 530 illustrates a different periodicity (100s of milliseconds to several seconds) for their respective object detection technique instances. When considered independently, various types of object detection techniques may be suitable for their respective intended purposes. However, conventionally, PTx does not support the combination of various object detection techniques. Without the techniques of this disclosure, the periodicity of each object detection technique may cause overlapping periods of two or more types of object detection techniques.

[0042] The fourth timing diagram 550 illustrates an example where multiple types of object detection techniques are combined without controlling the timing of one object detection technique relative to the other. For example, in a conventional system not embodying the techniques of this disclosure, an instance of a PRx detection technique and an instance of an induction heating device detection technique may occur within an overlapping time during a first period 552. As another example, an instance of a FO detection technique and an instance of an induction heating device detection technique may occur within an overlapping time during a second period 554.

[0043] Running different object detection techniques simultaneously can produce inaccurate or unexpected results for the object detection techniques. For example, an induction heating device detection technique can use a first detection power in the primary coil, and an FO detection technique can use a second detection power in the object detection coil. The first detection power may produce an inaccurate measurement of the detection value associated with the second detection power, or vice versa. Also, the induction heating device detection technique may interfere with receiving communications expected of the PRx detection technique. Thus, problems exist when different types of object detection techniques are run simultaneously.

[0044] 6 illustrates an example timing diagram 600 in which the timing of different object detection techniques is coordinated by a controller. In a first example 610, the controller may cause one or more object detection units (such as an induction heating device detection unit, a PRx detection unit, an FO detection unit, etc.) to execute their respective object detection techniques according to a sequential and periodic schedule. For example, an instance 512 of an induction heating device detection technique can be followed by an instance 522 of a PRx detection technique, which can be followed by an instance 532 of an FO detection technique. The order of the sequences may be different than that illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0045] 6 illustrates the timing of multiple object detection technique instances where the object detection techniques form periodic and aperiodic patterns. For example, a FO detection technique (such as instance 531) may occur aperiodically within a cycle of detection techniques that includes more frequent instances of a guide device detection technique and a PRx detection technique.

[0046] In a third example 630 shown in Figure 6, the controller may attempt to maintain separate periodicities associated with different object detection techniques. However, the controller may shift (forward or backward) the timing of an instance if it overlaps with another instance of another object detection technique. As shown in period 552, an instance 532 of the FO detection technique may be shifted earlier than it would otherwise be, such that the instance 532 of the FO detection technique occurs before the instance 512 of the induction heating device detection technique.

[0047] While FIG. 6 illustrates some examples of the timing of different object detection technologies, there may be other examples where the controller manages the timing of various types of object detection technologies. In some implementations, the rules or policies may specify a maximum power threshold that limits the total amount of power that may be used by the PTx during a period when in standby mode. For example, the maximum power threshold may be about 0.5 watts (e.g., 0.5 watt-hours of energy per hour). One or more of the multiple object detection technologies may include temporarily energizing the primary coil or object detection with detection power as part of a routine for measuring a characteristic associated with the resulting magnetic field. In some implementations, the controller may actively manage the periodicity or timing of instances of the multiple object detection technologies such that the sum of the amount of detection power of the multiple object detection technologies over a period of time is less than the maximum power threshold.

[0048] FIG. 7 illustrates a conceptual diagram 700 illustrating how the results of one type of object detection technique may change the behavior of other types of object detection techniques. In some implementations, the various types of object detection techniques may be performed in any order, but the results of one object detection technique may cause the controller to change the type of object detection technique that is subsequently performed. Thus, subsequent object detection techniques may depend on which object detection technique was first used to detect the corresponding type of object. In some implementations, the controller may be configured with a priority setting that controls which type of object detection technique is used after a particular type of object is detected.

[0049] In a first example 710, in block 712, the controller may determine that an induction heating device has been detected as a result of the induction heating device detection technique. The controller may perform an action in response to the determination that an induction heating device has been detected. Because the induction heating device is used in an induction heating mode intended to heat ferrous and semi-ferrous materials in the induction heating device, any objects in the operating environment are expected to be heated. Thus, in block 714, the controller may disable further FO detection techniques. In block 716, the controller may disable further PRx detection techniques as they are not relevant to the induction heating mode of the PTx. In block 718, the controller may present an induction heating warning indication (e.g., a mode indicator, a "hot surface" warning indicator, or both) via a user interface of the multifunction hob or the PTx while proceeding to transfer power to the induction heating device (not shown). The actions in blocks 714, 716, and 718 may remain in effect while the PTx is operating according to the induction heating mode.

[0050] In a second example 720, in block 722, the controller may determine that a PRx has been detected as a result of the PRx detection technique. The controller may perform an action in response to the determination that a PRx has been detected. For example, in block 724, the controller may disable the additional inductive heating detection technique. This is because the PTx may be operating according to a wireless power transmission mode. In block 726, the controller may continue to periodically perform the additional FO detection technique while the PTx is in the wireless power transmission mode. This is because FOs introduced into the operating environment may adversely affect the wireless power transmission or may be undesirably heated during wireless power transmission. The actions in blocks 724 and 726 may remain enabled while the PTx is operating according to a wireless power transmission mode.

[0051] In a third example 730, in block 732, the controller may determine that a metal object was detected as a result of the FO detection technique. Initially, the controller may assume that the metal object is a foreign object because it was first detected by the FO detection technique. However, the metal object may be an induction heater or PRx that has not yet been detected by the induction heater detection technique or the PRx detection technique, respectively. Thus, the controller may generate at least one more instance of the induction heater detection technique or the PRx detection technique before determining that the metal object is a foreign object. In block 734, the controller may cause another detection technique to run (e.g., immediately after a positive FO detection result) and wait for the results of the subsequent PRX and induction heater detection techniques. In block 736, if the induction heater detection technique determines that an induction heater was detected, the controller may present an induction heating warning (e.g., a hot surface indicator) and proceed to induction heating mode. In block 738, the controller may determine whether the FO detection result was a false positive (error of detection) caused by the placement of a PRx. For example, if a subsequent PRx detection technique determines that a PRx was detected, the controller may proceed to a wireless power transfer mode using the PRx. The object detected by the FO detection technique may be a PRx on the interface surface if the PRx was placed after the most recent PRx detection technique and before the FO detection technique that detected the object. However, if neither the immediately following induction heating device detection nor the immediately following PRx detection succeeds in detecting a valid induction heating device or PRx after the FO detection, then in block 740 the controller may present a foreign object detection (FOD) error indication in one or more user interfaces (e.g., a user interface of a PTx, a multifunction hob, a PRx, or any combination thereof). Additionally or alternatively, if a PRx is later detected before the FO detection is cleared, a FOD error indication may also be presented in a user interface associated with the PRx.The operations in blocks 734, 736, 738, and 740 may remain in effect until the FO detection technique produces a result that no FO is detected. For example, a user may remove the FO so that the FO detection technique can verify that no FO is present in the operating environment of the PTx. The FOD error indication may then be cleared. The controller may prevent the PTx from operating in both the induction heating mode and the wireless power transfer mode if an FO is detected by the FO detection technique until the FO is removed. Note that the controller may continue to execute the induction heating device detection technique and the PRx detection technique to determine whether the FO has been removed by the user or the FO detection has been manually disabled by user input. However, the FO detection result prevents power transfer to the PRx or induction heating device when an FO is present. Thus, the controller may prevent the induction heating mode and the wireless power transfer mode until the FO detection technique determines that there is no FO.

[0052] 8 shows a flow chart diagram of an example process 800 including multiple types of object detection techniques. The operations of process 800 may be performed by a controller of a PTx, such as a multifunction fob. For example, the operations of process 800 may be performed by the controller 350 described with reference to FIG. 3. In some implementations, the controller may be included in or part of a processor of the multifunction fob.

[0053] In block 805, the controller may initiate an object detection technique. The object detection technique may be any of a number of object detection techniques including an induction heating device detection technique (referred to as a pan detection technique 810), a PRx detection technique 835, and an FO detection technique 865. Which object detection technique is initiated may depend on a schedule or timing management, such as any of the examples described with reference to FIG.

[0054] Once the controller initiates the pan detection technique at block 805, process 800 may proceed to block 810. In block 810, the controller may cause the induction heater detection unit to execute the pan detection technique. In block 815, the controller may determine whether an induction heater (for brevity, referred to as a pan) is detected based on the pan detection technique. If a pan is not detected, the process returns to block 805, where the controller may initiate the next object detection technique according to a schedule, sequence, or periodicity.

[0055] If, at block 815, a pan is detected, the process proceeds to block 820. At block 820, the controller may disable the FO and PRx detection techniques such that subsequent instances of these object detection techniques are no longer performed until a pan is no longer detected. At block 825, the controller may operate the PTx in an induction heating mode. At block 530, the controller may cause a user interface of the PTx or multifunction hob to present one or more warning indications. For example, the warning indications may include a hot surface indicator.

[0056] Returning to block 805, once the controller initiates the PRx detection technique, process 800 may proceed to block 835. In block 835, the controller may cause the PRx detection unit to execute the PRx detection technique. In block 840, the controller may determine whether a PRx is detected based on the PRx detection technique. If a PRx is not detected, the process may return to block 805 and the controller may initiate the next object detection technique according to a schedule, sequence, or periodicity.

[0057] If PRx is detected in block 840, the process 800 may proceed to block 845. In block 845, the controller may disable the pan detection technique such that subsequent instances of the pan detection technique are no longer performed until PRx is no longer detected. However, before the controller transitions to the wireless power transmission mode, the controller may verify that an FO is not detected. Thus, in block 850, the controller may cause the FO detection unit to perform the FO detection technique. In block 855, if an FO is not detected, the controller may cause the PTx to operate in the wireless power transmission mode. While the PTx is in the wireless power transmission mode, the controller may periodically return to block 850 such that the FO detection technique is used to check for the presence of an FO.

[0058] If, at block 855, an FOD is detected, the process may proceed to block 857. At block 857, the controller may disable the wireless power transmission mode such that the primary coil no longer generates a magnetic field for wireless power transmission. The process may proceed to block 895, where the controller causes one or more user interfaces (of the PTx, PRx, multifunction fob, or any combination thereof) to present an FOD error indication.

[0059] In some implementations, the controller may have different behavior while the PTx is in wireless power transmission mode. For example, the controller may set the FOD flag if FO is detected and not cleared. If the FOD flag is set prior to the detection of the PRx in block 840, the controller may disable pan detection as in block 845, disable WPT as in block 857, and indicate an FO error on the user interface of the PRx as in block 895. Additionally or alternatively, in some implementations, the controller may avoid performing FO detection techniques during wireless power transmission. For example, some controllers may avoid performing the functions of blocks 850, 855, 857, and 895 when the PTX is in wireless power transmission mode in block 860.

[0060] Returning to block 805, once the controller initiates the FO detection technique, process 800 may proceed to block 865. In block 865, the controller may cause the FO detection unit to execute the FO detection technique. In block 870, the controller may determine whether an FO is detected based on the FO detection technique. If an FO is not detected, the process returns to block 805, where the controller may initiate the next object detection technique according to a schedule, sequence, or periodicity.

[0061] If, at block 870, an FO is detected as a result of the FO detection technique, the process may proceed to block 875. At this point, the controller may attempt to verify whether the FO is in fact a foreign object or whether the FO detection technique has actually detected an induction heating device. At block 875, the controller may initiate a pan detection technique. If, at block 880, the pan detection technique indicates that a pan has been detected, the process proceeds to block 820, whereby the controller may operate the PTx in an induction heating mode. If, at block 880, the pan detection technique does not indicate that a pan has been detected, the controller proceeds to block 885 (indicated by reference "A"). At block 885, the controller may determine whether a PRx is present (e.g., by performing a PRx detection technique immediately following). If a PRx is present, the process may proceed to block 845 (indicated by reference "B"). If a PRx is not present, the process may proceed to block 890. At block 890, the controller may cause a user interface of the PTx or multifunction fob to present an FOD warning indication. Since the PTx is not currently in induction heating or wireless power transfer modes, the controller can continue to attempt additional object detection techniques.

[0062] In some implementations, the controller may set an FOD flag (e.g., a value in a memory associated with the controller) to maintain the results of the FO detection technique. For example, in block 885, if FO is detected as a result of any FO detection technique, the controller may set the FOD flag and prevent the PTx from operating in an inductive heating mode or a wireless power transfer mode until the FOD flag is cleared. Similarly, in block 885, if FO is not detected as a result of any FO detection technique, the controller may clear the FOD flag.

[0063] 9 illustrates a flow chart diagram of an example process 900 associated with a PTx in a multifunction fob, according to some implementations. The operations of process 900 may be performed by a controller of the PTx, such as the multifunction fob. For example, the operations of process 900 may be performed by the controller 350 described with reference to FIG. 3. In some implementations, the controller may be included in or part of a processor of the multifunction fob.

[0064] In block 910, the controller may implement multiple object detection techniques, including at least an induction heating device detection technique, a PRx detection technique, and a FO detection technique, with one or more detection units.

[0065] In block 920, the controller may cause one or more detection units to execute multiple instances of the object detection technique, such that each instance is executed at a different time than the other instances.

[0066] In block 930, the controller may control one or more coils of the device to generate a magnetic field for inductive heating or wireless power transmission according to an inductive heating mode or wireless power transmission mode, respectively, based at least in part on the results of the multiple object detection techniques.

[0067] FIG. 10 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary device 1000 for use in a multifunction hob. In some implementations, the device 1000 may be part of a PTx, such as any of the wireless power transmission devices described herein. In some implementations, the device 1000 may be implemented as part of a multifunction hob including one or more PTxes capable of operating in an induction heating mode and a wireless power transmission mode. The device 1000 may include a processor 1002 (possibly including multiple processors, multiple cores, multiple nodes, or implementing multithreading, etc.). The device 1000 may also include a memory 1006. The memory 1006 may be a system memory or any one or more of the possible implementations of the computer-readable media described herein. The device 1000 may also include a bus 1011 (e.g., PCI, ISA, PCI-Express, HyperTransport®, InfiniBand®, NuBus®, AHB, AXI, etc.).

[0068] The apparatus 1000 may include one or more controllers (such as controller 1062) configured to manage the timing of one or more object detection techniques 1040. The object detection techniques 1040 may be performed by a corresponding object detection unit (not shown). In some implementations, the controller 1062 may be distributed within the processor 1002, the memory 1006, and the bus 1011. The controller 1062 may perform some or all of the operations described herein.

[0069] The memory 1006 may include computer instructions executable by the processor 1002 to perform the functions of the embodiments described with reference to Figures 1-9. Any of these functions may be implemented partially (or entirely) in hardware or in the processor 1002. For example, the functions may be implemented in an application specific integrated circuit, logic implemented in the processor 1002, a co-processor on a peripheral or card, etc. Furthermore, an implementation may include fewer components or additional components not shown in Figure 10. The processor 1002, the memory 1006, and the controller 1062 may be coupled to a bus 1011. Although shown as being coupled to the bus 1011, the memory 1006 may be coupled to the processor 1002.

[0070] The diagrams, operations, and components described herein are examples intended to aid in understanding exemplary implementations and should not be used to limit potential implementations or to limit the scope of the claims. Some implementations may perform additional operations, fewer operations, operations in parallel or in a different order, and may perform some operations differently.

[0071] The foregoing disclosure provides illustrations and descriptions, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the aspects to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations may be made in light of the above disclosure or may be acquired from practicing the aspects. Although aspects of the present disclosure have been described with respect to various examples, any combination of aspects from any example is within the scope of the present disclosure. The examples of the present disclosure are provided for educational purposes. Alternatively, or in addition to other examples described herein, the examples include any combination of the following implementation options (listed as clauses for clarity):

[0072] Terms Clause 1. An apparatus, the apparatus including: one or more coils capable of generating a magnetic field for induction heating or wireless power transmission in response to an induction heating mode or a wireless power transmission mode, respectively; one or more object detection units configured to implement a plurality of object detection techniques including at least an induction heating device detection technique, a wireless power receiving device (PRx) detection technique, and a foreign object (FO) detection technique; and a controller configured to cause the one or more object detection units to perform instances of the plurality of object detection techniques, such that each instance is performed at a different time than other instances, and to control the one or more coils to generate a magnetic field for the induction heating mode or the wireless power transmission mode based at least in part on results of the plurality of object detection techniques.

[0073] Clause 2. The apparatus of clause 1, wherein the one or more object detection units include an induction heating device detection unit configured to perform an induction heating device detection technique to detect a cooking vessel or utensil associated with the induction heating mode, a communications unit configured to perform a PRx detection technique to detect a PRx associated with the wireless power transmission mode, and a FO detection unit configured to perform a FO detection technique to detect a foreign object.

[0074] Clause 3. The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 2, wherein the controller is configured to manage timing of instances of the plurality of object detection techniques such that the instances occur sequentially in a periodic cycle.

[0075] Clause 4. The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 2, wherein the controller is configured to manage timing of instances of the plurality of object detection techniques such that instances of the induction heating device detection technique, the PRx detection technique, and the FO detection technique occur aperiodically over a period of time.

[0076] Clause 5. The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the controller is configured to generate instances of the induction heating device detection technique according to a first periodic schedule, generate instances of the PRx detection technique according to a second periodic schedule, and generate instances of the FO detection technique according to a third periodic schedule.

[0077] Clause 6. The apparatus of clause 5, wherein the controller is further configured to shift timing of an instance of any of the induction heating device detection technique, the PRx detection technique, or the FO detection technique if the timing of the instance overlaps with another one of the induction heating device detection technique, the PRx detection technique, or the FO detection technique.

[0078] Clause 7. The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the controller is further configured to determine whether a cooking vessel or appliance is detected by any instance of the induction heating device detection technology, and while the cooking vessel or appliance is detected, disable the wireless power transfer mode and discontinue generating instances of the PRx detection technology and the FO detection technology.

[0079] Clause 8. The apparatus of clause 7, wherein the controller is further configured to operate the one or more coils according to an induction heating mode and present an induction heating warning indication via a user interface of the apparatus to indicate that the one or more coils are operating in the induction heating mode.

[0080] Clause 9. The apparatus of clause 8, wherein the appliance is associated with a pan position of the hob, and the induction heating warning indication includes a hot surface warning associated with the pan position.

[0081] Clause 10. The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the controller is further configured to determine whether a PRx is detected by any instance of a PRx detection technique, disable the inductive heating mode while the PRx is detected, discontinue generating instances of the inductive heating device detection technique, and operate the one or more coils according to a wireless power transfer mode.

[0082] Clause 11. The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the controller is further configured to: determine whether an object is detected by a first instance of the FO detection technique, cause an instance of the induction heating device detection technique after the first instance of the FO detection technique to determine whether the object is an induction heating device based on the induction heating device detection technique, and if the object is an induction heating device, disable the wireless power transfer mode and discontinue generating instances of the PRx detection technique and the FO detection technique.

[0083] Clause 12. The apparatus of clause 11, wherein the controller is further configured to cause an instance of the PRx detection technique after the first instance of the FO detection technique to determine whether a PRx is detected, and to disable the induction heating mode and discontinue generating instances of the induction heating device detection technique while a PRx is detected.

[0084] Clause 13. The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that an object is detected by a first instance of the FO detection technique, generate an immediately subsequent instance of an inductive heating device detection technique and an immediately subsequent instance of a PRx detection technique after the first instance of the FO detection technique, determine whether the object is an inductive heating device based on the immediately subsequent instance of the inductive heating device detection technique or a PRx based on the immediately subsequent instance of the PRx detection technique, and if neither the immediately subsequent instance of the inductive heating device detection technique nor the immediately subsequent instance of the PRx detection technique results in detection of an inductive heating device or a PRx, display an FO detection error via either or both of a first user interface of the apparatus and, if PRx is detected, a second user interface of the PRx.

[0085] Clause 14. The apparatus of any one of clauses 11 to 13, further comprising a user interface capable of receiving user input indicating either an induction heating mode or a wireless power transfer mode, wherein the controller is further configured to refrain from generating instances of the FO detection technique and the PRx detection technique in response to the user interface receiving user input indicating the induction heating mode, and to refrain from generating instances of the induction heating device detection technique in response to the user interface receiving user input indicating the wireless power transfer mode.

[0086] Clause 15. The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 14, further comprising an interface surface associated with the one or more coils, wherein the controller is configured to control the one or more coils to generate a magnetic field for heating a cooking vessel or utensil on the interface surface according to an induction heating mode when a cooking vessel or utensil is detected by an instance of induction heating device detection technology, and to control the one or more coils to generate a magnetic field for transferring power to a PRx on the interface surface according to a wireless power transfer mode when a PRx is detected by an instance of PRx detection technology and a FO is not detected by the FO detection technology.

[0087] Clause 16. The apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 15, wherein the apparatus is a first power transmitting device (PTx) associated with a first location of a fob, the fob including a second PTX associated with a second location, and the controller is configured to manage timing of instances of a first plurality of object detection techniques associated with the first PTx independent of timing of instances of a second plurality of object detection techniques associated with the second PTx.

[0088] Clause 17. The apparatus of any one of clauses 1-16, wherein one or more of the plurality of object detection techniques includes temporarily energizing one or more coils to generate a magnetic field with a detected amount of power and measuring a characteristic associated with the magnetic field, and wherein the controller is configured to cause the one or more object detection units to perform instances of the plurality of object detection techniques such that a sum of the detected amounts of power of the plurality of object detection techniques over a period of time is less than a maximum power threshold.

[0089] Clause 18. A method comprising: implementing, by one or more detection units, a plurality of object detection techniques including at least an induction heating device detection technique, a wireless power receiving device (PRx) detection technique, and a foreign object (FO) detection technique; causing the one or more detection units to perform instances of the plurality of object detection techniques such that each instance is performed at a different time than other instances; and controlling, based at least in part on results of the plurality of object detection techniques, one or more coils of a device to generate a magnetic field for induction heating or wireless power transmission in accordance with an induction heating mode or wireless power transmission mode, respectively.

[0090] Clause 19. The method of clause 18, wherein implementing the plurality of object detection techniques includes implementing an induction heating device detection technique to detect a cooking vessel or utensil associated with an induction heating mode via an induction heating device detection unit, implementing a PRx detection technique to detect a PRx associated with a wireless power transmission mode via a communication unit, and implementing a foreign object detection (FOD) technique to detect a foreign object via a FOD unit.

[0091] Clause 20. The method of any one of clauses 18-19, further comprising managing timing of instances of the plurality of object detection techniques such that the instances occur sequentially in a periodic cycle.

[0092] Clause 21. The method of any one of clauses 18-19, further comprising managing timing of instances of the plurality of object detection techniques such that instances of the induction heating device detection technique, the PRx detection technique, and the FO detection technique occur aperiodically during a period of time.

[0093] Clause 22. The method of any one of clauses 18-21, further comprising generating instances of the induction heating device detection technique according to a first periodic schedule, generating instances of the PRx detection technique according to a second periodic schedule, and generating instances of the FO detection technique according to a third periodic schedule.

[0094] Clause 23. The method of clause 22, further comprising shifting timing of an instance of any of the induction heating device detection technique, the PRx detection technique, or the FO detection technique if the timing of the instance overlaps with another one of the induction heating device detection technique, the PRx detection technique, or the FO detection technique.

[0095] Clause 24. The method of any one of clauses 18-23, further comprising determining whether a cooking vessel or utensil is detected by any instance of induction heating device detection technology, and, while the cooking vessel or utensil is detected, disabling the wireless power transfer mode, ceasing to generate instances of PRx detection technology and FO detection technology, operating the one or more coils according to an induction heating mode, and presenting an induction heating warning indication, including a hot surface warning, via a user interface of the device to indicate that the one or more coils are operating in induction heating mode.

[0096] Clause 25. The method of any one of clauses 18 to 23, further comprising determining whether a PRx is detected by any instance of PRx detection technology, and, while a PRx is detected, disabling the induction heating mode, ceasing to generate instances of the induction heating device detection technology, generating further instances of the FO detection technology, and operating the one or more coils according to a wireless power transfer mode.

[0097] Clause 26. The method of any one of clauses 18 to 23, further comprising: determining whether an object is detected by a first instance of the FO detection technology, causing an instance of the induction heating device detection technology after the first instance of the FO detection technology to determine whether the object is an induction heating device based on the induction heating device detection technology, and in response to determining that the object is an induction heating device, disabling the wireless power transfer mode and ceasing to generate instances of the PRx detection technology and the FO detection technology.

[0098] Clause 27. The method of clause 26, further including causing an instance of the PRx detection technique after the first instance of the FO detection technique to determine whether the object is a PRx, and in response to determining that the object is a PRx, disabling the induction heating mode and ceasing to generate instances of the induction heating device detection technique.

[0099] Clause 28. The method of any one of clauses 18-27, further comprising: determining that an object is detected by a first instance of an FO detection technique; generating an immediately subsequent instance of an inductive heating device detection technique and an immediately subsequent instance of a PRx detection technique after the first instance of the FO detection technique; determining whether the object is an inductive heating device based on the immediately subsequent instance of the inductive heating device detection technique or a PRx based on the immediately subsequent instance of the PRx detection technique; and if neither the immediately subsequent instance of the inductive heating device detection technique nor the immediately subsequent instance of the PRx detection technique results in detection of an inductive heating device or a PRx, displaying an FO detection error via either or both of a first user interface of the device and a second user interface of the PRx if a PRx is detected.

[0100] Clause 29. The method of any one of clauses 18-28, further including receiving a user input indicating either an induction heating mode or a wireless power transfer mode, and in response to the user interface receiving the user input indicating the induction heating mode, refraining from generating an instance of an FO detection technique and a PRx detection technique, and in response to the user interface receiving the user input indicating the wireless power transfer mode, refraining from generating an instance of an induction heating device detection technique.

[0101] Clause 30. The method of any one of clauses 18 to 29, wherein the device is a first power transmitting device (PTx) associated with a first location of a fob, the fob including a second PTx associated with a second location, the method further including managing timing of instances of a first plurality of object detection techniques associated with the first PTx independent of timing of instances of a second plurality of object detection techniques associated with the second PTx.

[0102] Clause 31. The method of any one of clauses 18 to 30, wherein one or more of the plurality of object detection technologies includes temporarily energizing one or more coils to generate a magnetic field of a detected amount of power and measuring a characteristic associated with the magnetic field, the method further including managing timing of instances of the plurality of object detection technologies such that a sum of the detected amounts of power of the plurality of object detection technologies over a period of time is less than a maximum power threshold.

[0103] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure may be embodied as an apparatus. The apparatus may include a modem and at least one processor communicatively coupled to the at least one modem. The processor may be configured in conjunction with the modem to perform any one of the foregoing methods or features described herein.

[0104] 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 one of the above methods or features described herein.

[0105] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented as a system having means for performing any one of the above-mentioned methods or features described herein.

[0106] As used herein, phrases referring to "at least one of" or "one or more of" a list of items refer to any combination of those items, including single members. For example, "at least one of a, b, or c" is intended to cover the possibilities of a only, b only, c only, 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.

[0107] The various example components, logic, logic blocks, modules, circuits, operations, and algorithmic processes described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, firmware, software, or combinations of hardware, firmware, or software, including the structures disclosed herein and structural equivalents thereof. Interchangeability of hardware, firmware, and software has been generally described in terms of functionality and illustrated in the various example components, blocks, modules, circuits, and processes described above. Whether such functionality is implemented in hardware, firmware, or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system.

[0108] The hardware and data processing devices used to implement the various example components, logic, logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed 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 designed to perform the functions described herein. 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, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in combination with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some implementations, certain processes, operations, and methods may be performed by circuitry specific to a given function.

[0109] As mentioned above, some aspects of the subject matter described herein may be implemented as software. For example, various functions of components disclosed herein, or various blocks or steps of methods, operations, processes or algorithms disclosed herein, may be implemented as one or more modules of one or more computer programs. Such computer programs may include non-transitory processor-executable instructions or computer-executable instructions encoded on one or more tangible processor-readable or computer-readable storage media for execution by or controlling the operation of a data processing device, including components of the device described herein. By way of example and not limitation, such storage media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage, 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.

[0110] Various modifications to the embodiments described in this disclosure may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the present disclosure, the principles, and novel features disclosed herein.

[0111] Moreover, various features described herein in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Thus, although features may be described above as acting in a particular combination and initially claimed as such, one or more features from the claimed combination can, in some cases, be deleted from the combination, and the claimed combination can be directed to a subcombination or a variation of the subcombination.

[0112] Similarly, although operations are shown in the figures in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring such operations to be performed in the particular order shown, or in any sequential order, or that all of the operations shown be performed, to achieve desirable results. Additionally, the figures may generally depict one or more exemplary processes in the form of a flow chart or diagram. However, other operations not shown may be incorporated into the exemplary process depicted in the schematic. For example, one or more additional operations may be performed before, after, simultaneously with, or between any of the depicted operations. In some circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Additionally, the separation of various system components in the above-described embodiments should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems may generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: One or more coils capable of generating a magnetic field for induction heating or wireless power transmission according to an induction heating mode or a wireless power transmission mode, respectively; one or more object detection units configured to implement a plurality of object detection technologies including at least an induction heating device detection technology, a wireless power receiving device (PRx) detection technology, and a foreign object (FO) detection technology; causing the one or more object detection units to execute instances of the plurality of object detection techniques, such that each instance is executed at a different time than other instances; controlling the one or more coils to generate the magnetic field for the induction heating mode or the wireless power transfer mode based at least in part on results of the plurality of object detection techniques. A controller configured as follows: An apparatus comprising:

2. The one or more object detection units: an induction heating device detection unit configured to implement the induction heating device detection technique to detect a cooking vessel or utensil associated with the induction heating mode; and a communication unit configured to implement the PRx detection technique to detect a PRx associated with the wireless power transfer mode. a FO detection unit configured to implement the FO detection technique to detect foreign objects; The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising:

3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to manage timing of the instances of the plurality of object detection techniques such that the instances occur sequentially in a periodic cycle.

4. 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to manage timing of the instances of the plurality of object detection techniques such that the instances of the inductive heating device detection technique, the PRx detection technique, and the FO detection technique occur aperiodically over a period of time.

5. The controller: generating instances of the induction heating device detection technique according to a first periodic schedule; causing instances of the PRx detection technique to occur according to a second periodic schedule; generating instances of said FO detection technique according to a third periodic schedule; 5. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the apparatus is configured so as to:

6. The controller: Shifting the timing of an instance of any of the inductive heating device detection technique, the PRx detection technique, or the FO detection technique when the timing of the instance overlaps with another one of the inductive heating device detection technique, the PRx detection technique, or the FO detection technique. The apparatus of claim 5 , further configured to:

7. The controller: Determine whether a cooking vessel or utensil is detected by any instance of said induction heating device detection technology. The method further comprises: While the cooking vessel or utensil is detected, Disabling the wireless power transmission mode; ceasing to generate instances of the PRx detection technique and the FO detection technique; 7. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. the controller operates the one or more coils according to the induction heating mode; presenting an induction heating warning indicator via a user interface of the device to indicate that one or more coils are operating in the induction heating mode. The apparatus of claim 7 further configured to:

9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the appliance is associated with a pan position of a hob, and the induction heating warning indication includes a hot surface warning associated with the pan position.

10. The controller: determining whether a PRx is detected by any instance of said PRx detection technique; While the PRx is detected, Disabling the induction heating mode; interrupting generating instances of said induction heating device detection technique; Operating the one or more coils in accordance with the wireless power transfer mode.

10. The apparatus of claim 1 , further configured to:

11. The controller: determining whether an object is detected by a first instance of the FO detection technique; causing an instance of the induction heating device detection technique after the first instance of the FO detection technique to determine whether the object is an induction heating device based on the induction heating device detection technique; When the object is the induction heating device, Disable wireless power transmission mode, Discontinuing generating instances of the PRx detection technique and the FO detection technique 10. The apparatus of claim 1 , further configured to:

12. The controller: causing an instance of the PRx detection technique subsequent to the first instance of the FO detection technique to determine whether a PRx is detected; While the PRx is detected, Disable induction heating mode, and further configured to discontinue generating instances of the induction heating device detection technique.

12. The apparatus of claim 11.

13. The controller: determining that an object is detected by a first instance of the FO detection technique; generating, after the first instance of the FO detection technique, an immediately subsequent instance of the inductive heating device detection technique and an immediately subsequent instance of the PRx detection technique; determining whether the object is an inductive heating device based on the immediately subsequent instance of the inductive heating device detection technique or whether the object is a PRx based on the immediately subsequent instance of the PRx detection technique; if neither the immediately subsequent instance of the inductive heating device detection technique nor the immediately subsequent instance of the PRx detection technique results in detection of the inductive heating device or the PRx, then displaying a FO detection error via either or both of a first user interface of the device and, if the PRx is detected, a second user interface of the PRx.

10. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

14. a user interface capable of receiving user input indicating either the induction heating mode or the wireless power transfer mode; The controller: in response to the user interface receiving the user input indicating the inductive heating mode, refrain from instantiating the FO detection technique and the PRx detection technique; In response to the user interface receiving the user input indicating the wireless power transfer mode, refrain from generating an instance of the induction heating device detection technique. [0023] 14. Apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

15. and an interface surface associated with the one or more coils. The controller: controlling the one or more coils to generate the magnetic field to heat the cooking vessel or utensil according to the induction heating mode when a cooking vessel or utensil on the interface surface is detected by the instance of the induction heating device detection technology; configured to control the one or more coils to generate the magnetic field to transmit power to the PRx according to the wireless power transmission mode when a PRx on the interface surface is detected by an instance of the PRx detection technology and when an FO is not detected by the FO detection technology.

15. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. 16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is a first power transmitting device (PTx) associated with a first location of a fob, the fob including a second PTX associated with a second location, and the controller is configured to manage timing of instances of a first plurality of object detection technologies associated with the first PTx independent of timing of instances of a second plurality of object detection technologies associated with the second PTx.

17. one or more of the object detection techniques includes temporarily energizing the one or more coils to generate the magnetic field of a detected amount of power and measuring a characteristic associated with the magnetic field; the controller is configured to cause the one or more object detection units to execute the instances of the plurality of object detection techniques such that a sum of the amounts of detection power of the plurality of object detection techniques over a period of time is less than a maximum power threshold.

17. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. Implementing a plurality of object detection technologies, including at least an induction heating device detection technology, a wireless power receiving device (PRx) detection technology, and a foreign object (FO) detection technology, by one or more detection units; causing the one or more detection units to execute instances of the plurality of object detection techniques, such that each instance is executed at a different time than other instances; controlling one or more coils of the device to generate a magnetic field for induction heating or wireless power transmission according to an induction heating mode or a wireless power transmission mode, respectively, based at least in part on results of the plurality of object detection techniques; A method comprising:

19. Implementing the plurality of object detection techniques includes: implementing the induction heating device detection technique to detect, via an induction heating device detection unit, a cooking vessel or appliance associated with the induction heating mode; implementing a PRx detection technique to detect, via a communication unit, a PRx associated with the wireless power transmission mode; implementing a foreign object detection (FOD) technique to detect foreign objects via a FOD unit; 20. The method of claim 18, comprising:

20. managing the timing of the instances of the plurality of object detection techniques such that the instances occur sequentially in a periodic cycle; 20. The method of any one of claims 18 to 19, further comprising:

21. managing timing of the instances of the plurality of object detection techniques such that the instances of the induction heating device detection technique, the PRx detection technique, and the FO detection technique occur aperiodically over a period of time.

20. The method of any one of claims 18 to 19, further comprising:

22. generating instances of the induction heating device detection technique according to a first periodic schedule; causing instances of the PRx detection technique to occur according to a second periodic schedule; and causing instances of the FO detection technique to occur according to a third periodic schedule; and 22. The method of any one of claims 18 to 21, further comprising:

23. shifting the timing of an instance of any of the inductive heating device detection technique, the PRx detection technique, or the FO detection technique when the timing of the instance overlaps with another one of the inductive heating device detection technique, the PRx detection technique, or the FO detection technique.

23. The method of claim 22, further comprising:

24. determining whether a cooking vessel or utensil is detected by any instance of the induction heating device detection technology; While the cooking vessel or utensil is detected, Disabling the wireless power transmission mode; discontinuing generating instances of the PRx detection technique and the FO detection technique; operating the one or more coils according to the induction heating mode; presenting an induction heating warning display, including a hot surface warning, via a user interface of the device to indicate that the one or more coils are operating in the induction heating mode; and 24. The method of any one of claims 18 to 23, further comprising:

25. determining whether a PRx is detected by any instance of said PRx detection technique; While the PRx is detected, Disabling the induction heating mode; and interrupting generating instances of the induction heating device detection technique; and generating further instances of the FO detection technique; and operating the one or more coils according to the wireless power transfer mode; 24. The method of any one of claims 18 to 23, further comprising:

26. determining whether an object is detected by a first instance of the FO detection technique; causing an instance of the induction heating device detection technique after a first instance of the FO detection technique to determine whether the object is an induction heating device based on the induction heating device detection technique; in response to determining that the object is the induction heating device; Disabling the wireless power transmission mode; discontinuing generating instances of the PRx detection technique and the FO detection technique; 24. The method of any one of claims 18 to 23, further comprising:

27. causing an instance of a PRx detection technique subsequent to the first instance of the FO detection technique to determine whether the object is a PRx; in response to determining that the object is a PRx; Disabling the induction heating mode; and interrupting generating instances of the induction heating device detection technique; and 27. The method of claim 26, further comprising:

28. determining that an object is detected by a first instance of the FO detection technique; generating an immediately subsequent instance of the inductive heating device detection technique and an immediately subsequent instance of a PRx detection technique after the first instance of the FO detection technique; determining whether the object is an inductive heating device based on the immediately subsequent instance of the inductive heating device detection technique or the PRx based on the immediately subsequent instance of the PRx detection technique; if neither the immediately subsequent instance of an inductive heating device detection technique nor the immediately subsequent instance of the PRx detection technique results in detection of the inductive heating device or the PRx, indicating a FO detection error via either or both of a first user interface of the device and, if the PRx is detected, a second user interface of the PRx; 28. The method of any one of claims 18 to 27, further comprising:

29. receiving a user input indicating either the induction heating mode or the wireless power transfer mode; in response to the user interface receiving a user input indicating an induction heating mode, refraining from instantiating the FO detection technique and the PRx detection technique; and in response to the user interface receiving the user input indicating the wireless power transfer mode, refraining from generating an instance of the induction heating device detection technique.

29. The method of any one of claims 18 to 28.

30. The device is a first power transmitting device (PTx) associated with a first location of a fob, the fob including a second PTx associated with a second location, and the method includes:

30. The method of claim 18, further comprising managing the timing of instances of a first plurality of object detection techniques associated with the first PTx independently of the timing of instances of a second plurality of object detection techniques associated with the second PTx.

31. wherein one or more of the object detection techniques include temporarily energizing one or more coils to generate a magnetic field of a detected power amount and measuring a characteristic associated with the magnetic field, the method comprising:

31. The method of claim 18, further comprising managing the timing of the instances of the plurality of object detection techniques such that a sum of the amount of detection power of the plurality of object detection techniques over a period of time is below a maximum power threshold.

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