Wearable electronic device for wirelessly receiving power from external electronic device and operation method therefor

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a ring-type wearable electronic device comprises: a battery, a power reception circuit, a communication circuit, a processor, and a memory storing instructions. According to an embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to instruct the electronic device to identify the power level of the battery. According to an embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to instruct the electronic device to transmit power request information to an external electronic device via the communication circuit when it is determined that the power level is lower than a designated level. According to an embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to instruct the electronic device to drive, on the basis of the transmission of the power request information, the wearable electronic device in a charging standby mode for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device. According to an embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to instruct the electronic device to set, on the basis of driving the wearable electronic device in the charging standby mode, parameters of at least one of the power reception circuit and the communication circuit to values corresponding to the charging standby mode in order to wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device. According to an embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to instruct the electronic device to wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device via the power reception circuit when the wearable electronic device driven in the charging standby mode is located within a designated distance from the external electronic device.

Description

Wearable electronic device that wirelessly receives power from an external electronic device and its operating method

[0001] Various embodiments of the present invention relate to a wearable electronic device that wirelessly receives power from an external electronic device and a method of operating the same.

[0002] As communication technology advances, wearable electronic devices are becoming smaller and lighter enough to be worn on the body without significant discomfort. For example, wearable electronic devices such as head-mounted display devices (HMDs), smartwatches (or bands), contact lenses, rings, gloves, shoes, and clothing are becoming commercially available. Because wearable electronic devices are worn directly on the body, they can enhance portability and user accessibility.

[0003] In line with the recent consumer trend of placing importance on design, in the development of wearable electronic devices, the usability of the wearable electronic device is also being given important consideration along with the external design of the wearable electronic device.

[0004] For example, in the case of a wearable electronic device in the form of a ring that can be worn on a user's finger, because it is small in size, it can be worn at all times, and can provide various services for managing the user's health or checking the user's health status by measuring various bio-signals.

[0005] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a ring-shaped wearable electronic device may include a battery, a power receiving circuit, a communication circuit, a processor, and a memory storing instructions. According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to check a power level of the battery. According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to transmit power request information to an external electronic device through the communication circuit if the power level is determined to be lower than a designated level. According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to operate the wearable electronic device in a charging standby mode for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device based on the transmission of the power request information. In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to set parameters of at least one of the power receiving circuit and the communication circuit to values ​​corresponding to the charging standby mode in order to wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device based on the wearable electronic device being driven in the charging standby mode. In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device through the power receiving circuit when the wearable electronic device being driven in the charging standby mode is located within a specified distance from the external electronic device.

[0007] According to an embodiment, a method for operating a ring-shaped wearable electronic device may include an operation for checking a power level of a battery included in the wearable electronic device. According to an embodiment, a method for operating a ring-shaped wearable electronic device may include an operation for transmitting power request information to an external electronic device through a communication circuit included in the wearable electronic device when the power level is determined to be lower than a specified level. According to an embodiment, a method for operating a ring-shaped wearable electronic device may include an operation for driving the wearable electronic device in a charging standby mode for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device based on the transmission of the power request information. According to an embodiment, a method for operating a ring-shaped wearable electronic device may include an operation for setting parameters of at least one of the power receiving circuit and the communication circuit to values ​​corresponding to the charging standby mode in order to wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device based on the wearable electronic device being driven in the charging standby mode. A method of operating a ring-shaped wearable electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of wirelessly receiving power from an external electronic device through a power receiving circuit included in the wearable electronic device when the wearable electronic device, which is operated in the charging standby mode, is located within a specified distance from the external electronic device.

[0008] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a battery, a power transmission circuit, a communication circuit, a processor, and a memory storing instructions. According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to receive power request information from a ring-shaped wearable electronic device through the communication circuit. According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to determine, based on receiving the power request information, a power level of the battery and whether the electronic device is located at a specified distance from the wearable electronic device. According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to wirelessly transmit power to the wearable electronic device through the power transmission circuit if the power level is higher than a preset level and the electronic device is located within a specified distance from the wearable electronic device.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 4A is a diagram of a wearable electronic device and an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 4b is a block diagram of a wearable electronic device and components of the electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a wearable electronic device to wirelessly receive power from an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for an electronic device to wirelessly transmit power to a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating modes for a wearable electronic device to wirelessly receive power from an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 7b is a diagram illustrating modes for wirelessly transmitting power to a wearable electronic device by an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 8A is a diagram illustrating an operation of a wearable electronic device wirelessly receiving power from an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 8b is a diagram illustrating an operation of a wearable electronic device wirelessly receiving power from an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 9A is a diagram showing information related to charging of a wearable electronic device displayed on an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 9b is a diagram showing information related to charging of a wearable electronic device displayed on an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 9c is a diagram showing information related to charging of a wearable electronic device displayed on an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a setup screen for wirelessly providing power to a wearable electronic device by an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100), according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1 , in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (104) or the server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0025] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0026] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0027] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0028] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0029] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0030] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0031] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0032] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0033] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0034] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0035] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0036] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0037] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0038] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0039] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0040] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0041] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0042] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0043] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0044] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0045] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0046] In the detailed description below, reference numerals in the drawings may be used interchangeably or omitted for components that can be easily understood through the preceding embodiments, and their detailed descriptions may also be omitted. An electronic device according to an embodiment disclosed in this document may be implemented by selectively combining components of different embodiments, and components of one embodiment may be replaced by components of another embodiment. For example, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to specific drawings or embodiments.

[0047] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 2, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a housing (210). The housing (210) may form the overall appearance of the wearable electronic device (201).

[0049] According to one embodiment, the housing (210) may be ring-shaped. The housing (210) may include an opening configured to receive a user's finger. For example, the opening may be defined as a hole formed in the housing (210).

[0050] According to one embodiment, the housing (210) may include an outer housing portion (211) or an inner housing portion (213). The inner housing portion (213) may be coupled to the outer housing portion (211). According to one embodiment, the outer housing portion (211) and the inner housing portion (213) may be manufactured separately and assembled, or may be formed integrally.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the outer housing portion (211) may include a material that can withstand external impacts and / or scratches and implement design features. For example, the outer housing portion (211) may include at least one of titanium, stainless steel, or ceramic. The outer housing portion (211) may be color-treated or coated to implement the design.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the inner housing portion (213) may be a portion that comes into contact with a user's finger when the user wears the wearable electronic device (201). The inner housing portion (213) may be made of a material such as a molding material for sensing, transparent plastic, or glass. For example, the inner housing portion (213) may be configured to be at least partially transparent. For example, the inner housing portion (213) may include a material that is transparent to light for measuring biometric information. At least a portion of the inner housing portion (213) may be made of a material that is substantially the same as or similar to that of the outer housing portion (211). In addition, at least a portion of the inner housing portion (213) may include a metal material for measuring biometric information.

[0053] According to one embodiment, an outer housing portion (211) and an inner housing portion (213) may be combined to provide an internal space of the housing (210). Various electrical / electronic components of the wearable electronic device (201) may be arranged and / or mounted in the internal space of the housing (210). For example, the housing (210) may accommodate various electrical / electronic components. Refer to FIG. 3 to specifically examine the internal space of the housing (210).

[0054] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0055] Meanwhile, the arrangement of components of the wearable electronic device (201) of FIG. 3 is merely an example. Components of the wearable electronic device (201) may be arranged differently from FIG. 3.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 3, according to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a housing (300) (e.g., housing (210) of FIG. 2).

[0057] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a processor (e.g., 320). For example, the processor (320) may be a micro controller unit (MCU). In addition, the processor (320) may be an application processor (AP), a supplementary processor (e.g., sensor hub) (SP), a central processor unit (CPU), a neural processor unit (NPU), a graphics processor unit (GPU), or an internet of things (IoT) processor.

[0058] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a communication module (e.g., 310).

[0059] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include an antenna (e.g., 313). The antenna (313) may be an antenna for wireless communication. The antenna (313) may include a single or multiple segmented antennas. Referring to FIG. 3, a portion of a housing (300) of the wearable electronic device (201) may be utilized as an antenna (313).

[0060] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a memory (e.g., 330). Referring to FIG. 3, the wearable electronic device (201) may store data (e.g., sensing data, communication data) in the memory (330). Depending on the implementation, the memory (330) may be integrated with the processor (320).

[0061] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor (e.g., 341, 342, 343). The PPG sensor (e.g., 341, 342, 343) may be a sensor that irradiates light to a living body and receives light that is absorbed, scattered, or reflected. The wearable electronic device (201) may identify a biological signal by using the PPG sensor (e.g., 341, 342, 343). Referring to FIG. 3, one or more light emitting units (341) of the PPG sensor may emit light of various bands and may be composed of elements such as a light emitting diode (LED), a laser, or a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL). The band of the light emitting unit (341) may include green, red, and IR (Infrared). One or more light-receiving units (342) of the PPG sensor can receive light reflected and / or transmitted from light emitted from the light-emitting unit (341). A signal (e.g., light) acquired through the light-receiving unit (342) can be converted through an analog to digital converter (ADC) and stored in a memory (330) or a sensor buffer. The light-receiving unit (342) can be composed of a photodiode (PD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS). The control unit (343) of the PPG sensor can be an integrated circuit (IC) or an analog front end (AFE), and can control the light-emitting unit (341) and the light-receiving unit (342), process received data, and transmit the same to the processor (320) or store it in the memory (330).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may include an inertial sensor (e.g., 351). The inertial sensor (e.g., 351) may be a sensor that detects inertia, such as an acceleration sensor or a gyroscope. Referring to FIG. 3, the inertial sensor (351) may include only an acceleration sensor (e.g., a 3-axis sensor) or may include an acceleration sensor and a gyroscope (e.g., a 6-axis sensor). The wearable electronic device (201) may detect (or sense) gestures, motions, impacts, postures, and activities (sedentary, moving, sports) of the wearable electronic device (201) by using the inertial sensor (351).

[0063] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may include a temperature sensor (e.g., 352). The temperature sensor (e.g., 352) may be a sensor that measures the temperature of a living body or a component. The temperature sensor (e.g., 352) may be a contact-type or a non-contact-type sensor, depending on the method. The temperature value measured by the temperature sensor (e.g., 352) may be stored in the memory (330) or transmitted to the processor (320). The wearable electronic device (201) (e.g., the processor (320)) may estimate the temperature of a living body, estimate the temperature of the wearable electronic device (201), or recognize the situation around the wearable electronic device (201) by using the temperature sensor (e.g., 352).

[0064] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a battery (e.g., 360). The battery (360) may be a device that converts and stores chemical energy into electricity to power the wearable electronic device (201). The battery (360) (e.g., a secondary battery) may be charged and discharged, and may be configured in various ways depending on the material, such as lithium ion, mercury, or dry cell. Referring to FIG. 3, the battery (360) may include a flexible battery pack corresponding to the housing (300). The battery (360) may include a plurality of non-flexible battery packs. The battery (360) may also include a flexible battery pack and a non-flexible battery pack.

[0065] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a charging circuit (e.g., 370). The charging circuit (370) may be configured to support wired charging (e.g., terminal, pogo pin) and / or wireless charging (e.g., WPC, NFC) methods for charging the wearable electronic device (201) (e.g., battery (360)). The wearable electronic device (201) may charge the battery (360) through the charging circuit (370).

[0066] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a power management module (e.g., 380). The power management module (380) may be a module that manages power of the wearable electronic device (201). The wearable electronic device (201) (e.g., processor (320)) may distribute and control power appropriately to the processor (320), memory (330), and sensors (e.g., 341, 342, 343, 351, 352) through the power management module (e.g., 380).

[0067] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (201) may include a substrate (e.g., 390). For example, the substrate (e.g., 390) may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). Referring to FIG. 3, various components, such as a communication module (310), a processor (320), a memory (330), sensors (e.g., 341, 342, 343, 351, 352), a battery (360), and a power management module (380), may be disposed on the substrate (390). The various components disposed on the substrate (390) may be electrically connected.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (201) may include a sensor module (e.g., 376). According to one embodiment, the sensor module (376) may include a touch circuit, and the touch circuit may include a touch sensor and a touch sensor IC for controlling the same. The touch sensor IC may control the touch sensor to detect a touch input at a specific location on a surface of an external housing, for example. For example, the touch sensor IC may detect a touch input by measuring a change in a signal (e.g., voltage, light intensity, resistance, or charge) at a specific location on the surface. The touch sensor IC may provide information (e.g., location, area, pressure, or time) regarding the detected touch input to the processor (320).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (376) may further include a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch.

[0070] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the housing (300) of the wearable electronic device (201) (e.g., the outer housing (211) of FIG. 2) may include a display module. When the wearable electronic device (201) includes the display module, the display module may include a touch circuit. In addition, the display module may further include at least one sensor (e.g., a pressure sensor) of the sensor module (376) or a control circuit therefor. In this case, the at least one sensor or the control circuit therefor may be embedded in a part of the display module or a part of the touch circuit. For example, when the sensor module (376) embedded in the display module includes a pressure sensor, the pressure sensor may obtain pressure information associated with a touch input through a part or the entire area of ​​the housing (300) (or the display). According to one embodiment, the sensor module (376) including the touch sensor may be disposed between pixels of a pixel layer of the display, or above or below the pixel layer.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (376) can detect a touch input for the entire area or a portion of the curved shape of the outer housing.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (376) can detect a touch input at a first portion (or first touch area) (376a) of a curved outer housing and a second portion (or second touch area) (376b) spaced apart from the first portion (376a) by a predetermined distance. For example, the first portion (376a) and the second portion (376b) can correspond to a position where the wearable electronic device (201) is touched by a finger and adjacent fingers on both sides when the wearable electronic device (201) is worn on the user's finger.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (376) may include a third portion (or third touch area) (376c) that is different from the first portion (376a) and the second portion (376b). In addition, a pressure sensor may be arranged in some of the areas (376a, 376b, 376c) to measure the intensity of the force generated by the touch. According to one embodiment, the pressure sensor may include a plurality of pressure sensors. In addition, the pressure sensors may be arranged at a predetermined interval along the curved shape of the housing so as to enable detection of pressure by a touch input at a specific location on the surface of the entire area or a part of the area surrounding the outer housing.

[0074] Meanwhile, terms related to 'identify' in this specification may be replaced with detect, recognize, determine, and / or sense.

[0075] FIG. 4A is a diagram of a wearable electronic device and an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 4A, a wearable electronic device (401) according to an embodiment (e.g., the electronic device of FIG. 1, the wearable electronic device (201) of FIGS. 2 and 3) can wirelessly transmit and receive data with an external electronic device (402) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1). For example, the wearable electronic device (401) can transmit and receive data with the electronic device (402) using short-range communication (e.g., BLE communication) technology. The wearable electronic device (401) can transmit information (hereinafter, power request information) or a message for charging a battery included in the wearable electronic device (401) to the external electronic device (402) using the short-range communication technology. For example, the power request information (or power request message) can include information notifying that the wearable electronic device (401) is in a state where power transmission to the external electronic device (402) is required. Additionally, the power request information may include information indicating that the wearable electronic device (401) requests power transmission to an external electronic device (402). Depending on the implementation, the power request information (or power request message) may also include information indicating the power level (or power status) of the battery included in the wearable electronic device (401).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) may transmit status information of the wearable electronic device (401) to an external electronic device (402). For example, the status information may include information related to a battery (e.g., 360) included in the wearable electronic device (401). For example, the status information may include information about a charge amount of the battery (360), a usable time of the wearable electronic device (401) based on power stored in the battery (360), power consumption of the wearable electronic device (401), the number of discharges of the battery (360), the number of full charges of the battery (360), the last charge time of the battery (360), and / or an average charge time of the battery (360). Depending on the implementation, the status information may also include information about the user (e.g., the user's name, the user's nickname, and / or the user's account information) if authentication for the user of the wearable electronic device (40!) has been completed.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) can wirelessly receive power from an external electronic device (402). For example, the wearable electronic device (401) can wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device (402) using a power receiving circuit (355) (e.g., an NFC-type power receiving circuit and / or a WPC-specified type power receiving circuit) connected to (or included in) a charging circuit (370). For example, the power receiving circuit (355) can include at least one coil (e.g., an NFC-type coil and / or a WPC-specified type coil). For example, the power receiving circuit (355) can be disposed on an outer portion of the housing (300). The power receiving circuit (355) can be disposed so as not to be exposed to the outside of the housing (300). Depending on the implementation, at least a portion of the power receiving circuit (355) may be exposed to the outside of the housing (300).

[0079] According to one embodiment, when an external electronic device (402) receives power request information from a wearable electronic device (401), it may perform operations for transmitting power to the wearable electronic device (401). In addition, when it is determined that a specified condition for power transmission is satisfied, the external electronic device (402) may wirelessly transmit power to the wearable electronic device (401).

[0080] In a comparative example, existing wearable electronic devices did not proactively notify an external electronic device of information indicating a state in which the battery needed to be charged. The external electronic device could not determine in advance whether the wearable electronic device needed to be charged. For example, the external electronic device could not initiate operations for charging the wearable electronic device until it was confirmed that the wearable electronic device was in proximity to or in contact with a chargeable area of ​​the external electronic device. In other words, since the external electronic device could not determine the state of the wearable electronic device in advance, it could not perform charging preparation operations in advance even if the wearable electronic device needed to be charged. As a result, existing wearable electronic devices and external electronic devices could not quickly initiate charging operations.

[0081] A wearable electronic device (401) according to one embodiment of the present invention can perform a charging preparation operation prior to charging by performing an operation of notifying an external electronic device (402) that the wearable electronic device (401) needs to be charged. Through this, the wearable electronic device (401) can quickly start the charging operation.

[0082] In comparative examples, existing wearable electronic devices require the user to perform a separate input or action to initiate charging in order to charge the wearable electronic device. For example, a ring-shaped wearable electronic device could initiate charging when the user removed the device from the device, placed it on an external electronic device, and then confirmed an input to initiate charging. In this case, since additional user action was required to charge the wearable electronic device, the usability of the wearable electronic device could be reduced.

[0083] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a wearable electronic device (401) can quickly start a charging operation of the wearable electronic device (401) even without a separate input action being performed by the user while wearing the wearable electronic device (401). Through this, the usability and convenience of the wearable electronic device (401) can be increased. In addition, compared to existing wearable electronic devices, the wearable electronic device (401) according to an embodiment can quickly start a charging operation, so that the user can quickly perform charging while wearing the wearable electronic device (401).

[0084] FIG. 4b is a block diagram of a wearable electronic device and components of the electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 4b, a wearable electronic device (401) according to one embodiment may be implemented identically or similarly to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 and the wearable electronic device (401) of FIGS. 2 and 3. For example, the wearable electronic device (401) may be implemented as a ring-shaped wearable electronic device as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) may include a sensor (410) (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1 or the sensor module (376) of FIG. 3), a processor (420) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1 or the processor (320) of FIG. 3), a memory (430) (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1), a battery (440) (e.g., the battery (360) of FIG. 3), a power receiving circuit (450) (e.g., the charging circuit (370) of FIG. 3), and / or a communication circuit (460) (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1 or the communication module (310) of FIG. 4). According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) may omit at least one of the components or may additionally include another component.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) can control the overall operation of the wearable electronic device (401). The memory (430) can store data or instructions of the wearable electronic device (401). For example, instructions stored in the memory (430) can be set to perform specific operations by the processor (420).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may check the power level of the battery (440). For example, the processor (420) may check the power level of the battery (440) at a predetermined period. The processor (420) may check whether the power level of the battery (440) is lower than a designated level. For example, the designated level may represent a power level (e.g., 15%) indicating that the battery (440) requires charging.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may determine whether the wearable electronic device (401) is worn by the user through the sensor (410) (e.g., a touch sensor and / or a pressure sensor). The processor (420) may determine the power level of the battery (440) based on determining that the wearable electronic device (401) is worn by the user. For example, the processor (420) may determine the power level of the battery (440) when it is determined that the wearable electronic device (401) is worn by the user. In addition, the processor (420) may also determine the power level of the battery (440) according to a preset cycle while the wearable electronic device (401) is worn by the user.

[0090] According to one embodiment, when the power level of the battery (440) is determined to be lower than a specified level, the processor (420) may transmit power request information to the external electronic device (402) through the communication circuit (460). For example, the power request information (or power request message) may include information notifying that the wearable electronic device (401) is in a state where power transmission to the external electronic device (402) is required. In addition, the power request information may include information that the wearable electronic device (401) requests power transmission to the external electronic device (402). Depending on the implementation, the power request information (or power request message) may also include information indicating the current power level (or power state) of the battery (440) included in the wearable electronic device (401).

[0091] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may drive (or enter) the wearable electronic device (401) into a charging standby mode for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device (402) based on transmitting power request information to the external electronic device (402). For example, the charging standby mode may represent a mode for wirelessly receiving power and / or performing at least one preparatory operation for charging the battery (440) using the received power. For example, the processor (420), in the charging standby mode, may perform at least some of the designated preparatory operations among a plurality of charging preparatory operations for wirelessly receiving power and / or charging the battery (440) using the received power. For example, some of the preparatory operations may be designated as preparatory operations that can be performed while minimizing power consumption. For example, the wearable electronic device (401), in the charging standby mode, may consume no power or only a minimal amount of power. Depending on the implementation, the processor (420) may perform all of the multiple charge preparation operations in the charge standby mode.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may set parameters for wirelessly receiving power from an external electronic device (402) based on driving in a charging standby mode. For example, the parameters may represent set values ​​for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device (402) and / or charging the battery (440) using the received power. For example, the processor (420) may, in the charging standby mode, set or adjust parameters of at least one of the power receiving circuit (450) and the communication circuit (460) to values ​​corresponding to the charging standby mode. For example, parameter values ​​set in the charging standby mode and the idle mode may be different from each other. For example, the processor (420) may change specific register values ​​related to a charging operation or hardware for charging (e.g., the power receiving circuit (450), the communication circuit (460), and / or the charging terminal).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may activate the power receiving circuit (450) based on set or adjusted parameters in the charging standby mode. The processor (420) may perform a designated portion of a plurality of charging preparation operations for wirelessly receiving power from an external electronic device (402) through the activated power receiving circuit (450). For example, the processor (420) may activate some components of the power receiving circuit (450) (e.g., a coil, a regulator, or some of the charging circuits) to enable faster power reception from the external electronic device (402). For example, when receiving power based on a method specified in WPC, the processor (420) may perform at least one of a ping phase, a configuration phase, and a negotiation phase prior to a power transfer phase. Alternatively, the processor (420) may perform operations to prepare at least one of a ping phase, a configuration phase, and a negotiation phase.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may activate the communication circuit (460) to determine a distance between the wearable electronic device (401) and the external electronic device (402) based on set or adjusted parameters in the charging standby mode. The processor (420) may determine a distance between the wearable electronic device (401) and the external electronic device (403) based on a signal received from the external electronic device (403) through the activated communication circuit (460). Depending on the implementation, the processor (420) may also activate at least one sensor to determine a distance between the wearable electronic device (401) and the external electronic device (402) in the charging standby mode.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device (402) through the power receiving circuit (450) when the wearable electronic device (401) is located within a specified distance from the external electronic device (402) while the wearable electronic device (401) is operating in a charging standby mode. For example, the specified distance may represent a distance at which the wearable electronic device (401) can wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device (402). For example, the processor (420) may determine the distance from the external electronic device (402) based on a signal received from the external electronic device (402) through the communication circuit (460) (e.g., by checking the strength of a BLE signal). For example, when a hand of a user wearing a wearable electronic device (401) is gripped by an electronic device (402), the processor (420) can wirelessly receive power from an external electronic device (402) through a power receiving circuit (450). Thereafter, the processor (420) can control an operation of charging a battery (440) using the received power.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a processor (470) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1), a sensor (472) (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1), a battery (475), a power transmission circuit (480), a display (485) (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1), and / or a communication circuit (490) (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402) may omit at least one of the components or may additionally include other components. For example, the electronic device (402) may further include a memory that stores data or instructions of the electronic device (402). Instructions stored in the memory included in the electronic device (402) may be set to perform specific operations by the processor (420).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the processor (470) can control the overall operation of the electronic device (402).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the processor (470) may receive power request information from the wearable electronic device (401) via the communication circuit (490).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the processor (470) may determine, based on receiving power request information, whether the electronic device (402) satisfies conditions (e.g., power level, temperature, distance, and / or whether the wearable electronic device (402) is charged). For example, the processor (470) may determine whether the power level of the battery (475) is higher than a preset level. For example, the preset level may represent a power level at which the electronic device (402) does not cause a problem in operating the electronic device (402) even if the electronic device (402) transmits power to the wearable electronic device (402). In addition, the processor (470) may determine whether the heat generation of the electronic device (402) is lower than a preset temperature.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the processor (470) may perform at least some of the preparatory operations for charging the wearable electronic device (401) when the power level of the battery (475) is higher than a preset level and the temperature of the electronic device (402) is lower than a preset temperature. Depending on the implementation, the processor (470) may perform at least some of the preparatory operations for charging the wearable electronic device (401) even if at least one of the conditions of the power level or the temperature is not met.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the processor (470) may determine whether the electronic device (402) is located at a specified distance from the wearable electronic device (401) if it is determined that the power level and temperature of the battery (475) satisfy specified conditions. For example, the specified distance may represent a distance at which the electronic device (402) can wirelessly transmit power to the wearable electronic device (401). For example, the processor (420) may determine the distance from the wearable electronic device (402) based on a signal received from the wearable electronic device (401) via the communication circuit (490) (e.g., by determining the strength of a BLE signal).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the processor (470) may wirelessly transmit power to the wearable electronic device (401) through a power transmission circuit (e.g., an NFC-type power transmission / reception circuit, a WPC-type power transmission / reception circuit) (480) when the electronic device (402) is positioned within a specified distance from the wearable electronic device (401).

[0103] According to one embodiment, the processor (470) may determine, via a sensor (e.g., a grip sensor, a touch sensor, and / or a pressure sensor) (472), whether the user has gripped the electronic device (402) with the hand wearing the wearable electronic device (401).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the processor (470) may determine that the electronic device (402) is located within a specified distance from the wearable electronic device (401) when it is determined that the user has gripped the electronic device (402) with the hand wearing the wearable electronic device (401).

[0105] According to one embodiment, the processor (470) may display information related to charging of the wearable electronic device (401) through the display (485). For example, the processor (470) may display information indicating whether charging is in progress and / or information indicating the power level of the battery of the wearable electronic device (401). Alternatively, the processor (470) may display guide information for inducing charging of the wearable electronic device (401) (e.g., information for inducing holding the electronic device (402) with the hand wearing the wearable electronic device (401). For example, when the processor (470) receives power request information from the wearable electronic device (401), it may display guide information for inducing charging of the wearable electronic device (401).

[0106] According to the above-described method, the processor (420) can quickly initiate a charging operation of the wearable electronic device (401) even without the user performing a separate input action while wearing the wearable electronic device (401). Through this, the usability and convenience of the wearable electronic device (401) can be increased.

[0107] The operations of the wearable electronic device (401) described in the drawings below may be performed by the processor (420). However, for convenience of explanation, the operations performed by the processor (420) will be described as being performed by the wearable electronic device (401).

[0108] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a wearable electronic device to wirelessly receive power from an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0109] In the following examples, the operations may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily sequential. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel. Depending on the implementation, certain operations may be omitted.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 5, according to one embodiment, in operation 501, a wearable electronic device (e.g., the wearable electronic device (401) of FIG. 4) may use a sensor (e.g., the sensor (410) of FIG. 4) to determine whether the wearable electronic device (401) is worn by a user (e.g., the user's finger).

[0111] According to one embodiment, in operation 503, the wearable electronic device (401) may check the power level of a battery (e.g., battery (440) of FIG. 4). For example, the wearable electronic device (401) may check the power level of the battery (440) if it is determined that the wearable electronic device (401) is worn by a user (e.g., the user's finger).

[0112] In one embodiment, at operation 505, the wearable electronic device (401) may determine whether the power level of the battery (440) is lower than a specified level.

[0113] According to one embodiment, if the power level of the battery (440) is determined to be lower than a specified level (Yes in operation 505), in operation 507, the wearable electronic device (401) may transmit power request information to an external electronic device (402) via a communication circuit (e.g., the communication circuit (460) of FIG. 4). According to one embodiment, if the power level of the battery (440) is determined not to be lower than the specified level (No in operation 505), the wearable electronic device (401) may not transmit power request information to the external electronic device (402).

[0114] Depending on the implementation, some of operations 505 to 507 may be omitted or changed. For example, the wearable electronic device (401) may transmit power request information to the external electronic device (402) without considering the power level of the battery (440). Alternatively, the wearable electronic device (401) may transmit power request information to the external electronic device (402) if it is determined that the power level of the battery (440) is not fully charged.

[0115] According to one embodiment, in operation 509, the wearable electronic device (401) may operate (or enter) into a charging standby mode based on transmitting power request information. For example, the wearable electronic device (401) may perform at least some of the charging preparation operations for wirelessly receiving power from an external electronic device (402) in the charging standby mode. Furthermore, the wearable electronic device (401) may determine and apply parameters (or settings) for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device (402) in the charging standby mode. For example, the wearable electronic device (401) may change or adjust the parameters (or settings) for better wirelessly receiving power. Alternatively, the wearable electronic device (401) may pre-activate specific components (e.g., at least a portion of a power receiving circuit, a communication circuit, or a charging circuit) for wirelessly receiving power.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) may activate the power receiving circuit (450) based on changed or adjusted parameters in the charging standby mode. The wearable electronic device (401) may perform a designated portion of a plurality of charging preparation operations for wirelessly receiving power from an external electronic device (402) through the activated power receiving circuit (450). For example, the wearable electronic device (401) may activate some components of the power receiving circuit (450) (e.g., a coil, a regulator, or some of the charging circuits) to more quickly receive power from the external electronic device (402).

[0117] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) may, in a charging standby mode, activate the communication circuit (460) to determine a distance that the wearable electronic device (401) is away from an external electronic device (402) based on the changed or adjusted parameters. The wearable electronic device (401) may, based on a signal received from the external electronic device (403) through the activated communication circuit (460), determine a distance that the wearable electronic device (401) is away from the external electronic device (403). Depending on the implementation, the wearable electronic device (401) may also, in a charging standby mode, activate at least one sensor to determine a distance that the wearable electronic device (401) is away from the external electronic device (402).

[0118] According to one embodiment, in operation 511, when a wearable electronic device (401) driven in a charging standby mode is positioned within a specified distance from an external electronic device (402), the wearable electronic device (401) can wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device (402). For example, when a hand of a user wearing the wearable electronic device (401) is gripped by the external electronic device (402), the wearable electronic device (401) can wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device (402).

[0119] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) can charge a battery (440) using the received power.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) may stop charging when it is located outside a specified distance from an external electronic device (402) during charging. Alternatively, the wearable electronic device (401) may stop charging when a condition related to the state of the external electronic device (402) changes during charging (e.g., temperature condition, battery power level condition). At this time, the wearable electronic device (401) may be driven again in a charging standby mode or an IDLE mode. For example, the IDLE mode may indicate a mode (or state) in which the setting for charging is released. The wearable electronic device (401) may stop charging when it determines that an interrupt that stops the charging operation has occurred internally.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) may resume charging when it is again located within a specified distance from the external electronic device (402) after the charging operation has been stopped. Alternatively, the wearable electronic device (401) may resume charging when conditions related to the state of the external electronic device (402) (e.g., temperature conditions, battery power level conditions) change after the charging operation has been stopped.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) may stop charging when the charging of the battery (440) is completed. At this time, the wearable electronic device (401) may be operated in an IDLE mode. In addition, the wearable electronic device (401) may transmit information (or a message) indicating that the charging of the battery (440) is completed to an external electronic device (402).

[0123] The operations of the electronic device (402) described in the drawings below may be performed by the processor (470). However, for convenience of explanation, the operations performed by the processor (470) will be described as being performed by the electronic device (402).

[0124] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for an electronic device to wirelessly transmit power to a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0125] In the following examples, the operations may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily sequential. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel. Depending on the implementation, certain operations may be omitted.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 6, according to one embodiment, in operation 601, an external electronic device (hereinafter, electronic device) (e.g., electronic device (402) of FIG. 4) may receive power request information from a ring-shaped wearable electronic device (e.g., wearable electronic device (401) of FIG. 4) through a communication circuit (e.g., communication circuit (490) of FIG. 4).

[0127] According to one embodiment, in operation 603, the electronic device (402) may determine, based on receiving the power request information, whether a state of the electronic device (402) satisfies a specified condition for charging the wearable electronic device (401). For example, the electronic device (402) may determine whether a temperature of the electronic device (402), a power level of a battery (e.g., battery (475) of FIG. 4), and / or a distance from the wearable electronic device (401) satisfies a specified condition.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402) may determine whether a function for wirelessly transmitting power (e.g., a wireless charging sharing mode) is activated (e.g., the function is turned on) when it is determined that the state of the electronic device (402) satisfies a specified condition. For example, if the function is not activated, the electronic device (401) may activate the function for wirelessly transmitting power (e.g., turn the function on). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402) may determine whether a function for wirelessly transmitting power (e.g., a wireless charging sharing mode) is deactivated (e.g., turn the function off) when it is determined that the state of the electronic device (402) does not satisfy a specified condition. For example, if the function is not deactivated, the electronic device (401) may deactivate the function for wirelessly transmitting power (e.g., turn the function off).

[0129] According to one embodiment, if it is determined that the state of the electronic device (402) satisfies a specified condition (e.g., an example of operation 605), in operation 607, the electronic device (402) may wirelessly transmit power to the wearable electronic device (401) through a power transmission circuit (e.g., a power transmission circuit (480) of FIG. 4). The electronic device (401) may display information related to charging of the wearable electronic device (401) (e.g., information indicating that charging is in progress, a battery level of the wearable electronic device (401)) on a display (e.g., a display (485) of FIG. 4).

[0130] In one embodiment, if it is determined that the state of the electronic device (402) does not satisfy the specified condition (NO in operation 605), the electronic device (402) may not wirelessly transmit power to the wearable electronic device (401). For example, if it is determined that the state of the electronic device (402) does not satisfy the specified condition (NO in operation 605), the electronic device (402) may continue to determine whether the state of the electronic device (402) satisfies the specified condition.

[0131] Depending on the implementation, the electronic device (402) may wirelessly transfer power to the wearable electronic device (401) if the wearable electronic device (401) is located within a specified distance from the electronic device (402), even if conditions related to the power level of the battery (475) and / or the temperature of the electronic device (402) are not satisfied. For example, the electronic device (201) may wirelessly transfer power to the wearable electronic device (401) if it is determined that the user has gripped the electronic device (402) with the hand wearing the wearable electronic device (401).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402) may stop the charging operation (or power transfer operation) if the wearable electronic device (401) is positioned outside a specified distance during charging. Alternatively, the electronic device (402) may stop the charging operation (or power transfer operation) if a condition related to the state of the electronic device (401) changes during charging (e.g., temperature condition, battery power level condition).

[0133] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402) may resume charging when the wearable electronic device (401) is again positioned within a specified distance from the electronic device (402) after the charging operation has been stopped. Alternatively, the electronic device (402) may resume charging when a condition related to the state of the electronic device (402) (e.g., a temperature condition, a battery power level condition) changes after the charging operation has been stopped.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (401) may stop a charging operation (e.g., a power transfer operation) when charging of the battery (440) of the wearable electronic device (401) is completed. The electronic device (402) may display information indicating that charging of the wearable electronic device (401) is completed on the display (485).

[0135] FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating modes for a wearable electronic device to wirelessly receive power from an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 7A, according to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device (e.g., the wearable electronic device (401) of FIG. 4) may be driven in any one of an idle mode (710), a charge standby mode (720), and a charge mode (730). For example, the idle mode may indicate a mode (or state) in which the setting for charging is released. The charge standby mode (720) may indicate a mode (or state) in which at least one preparatory operation is performed for wirelessly receiving power and / or charging a battery (e.g., the battery (440) of FIG. 4) using the received power. The charge mode (730) may indicate a mode (or state) in which power is wirelessly received from an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (402) of FIG. 4) and charging the battery (440).

[0137] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) may be operated in an idle mode (710). The wearable electronic device (401) may check or monitor the power level of the battery (440) in the idle mode (710).

[0138] According to one embodiment, when the wearable electronic device (401) determines that charging of the battery (440) is necessary while operating in idle mode (710), the wearable electronic device (401) may transmit power request information to an external electronic device (402). Based on the transmission of the power request information, the wearable electronic device (401) may enter and operate in a charge standby mode (720). Thereafter, when the wearable electronic device (401) determines that charging of the battery (440) is unnecessary, the wearable electronic device (401) may enter the idle mode (710) again.

[0139] According to one embodiment, if the wearable electronic device (401) does not enter the charging mode (730) for a specified period of time (e.g., 1 minute) after entering the charging standby mode (720), it may re-enter the idle mode (710). This may prevent the wearable electronic device (401) from waiting in the charging standby mode (720) indefinitely.

[0140] In one embodiment, when the wearable electronic device (401) enters the idle mode (710) again from the charge standby mode (720) due to the elapse of a specified time, the wearable electronic device (401) may check or determine whether the battery (440) still needs to be charged. If the wearable electronic device (401) determines that the battery (440) still needs to be charged, the wearable electronic device (401) may transmit power request information to the electronic device (402). At this time, the wearable electronic device (401) may enter the charge standby mode (720) again.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) may receive power from an external electronic device (402) when the electronic device (402) approaches within a specified distance while the electronic device (401) is operating in a charging standby mode (720). At this time, the wearable electronic device (401) may enter and operate in a charging mode (730). Thereafter, when the proximity to the electronic device (402) is released, the wearable electronic device (401) may enter the charging standby mode (720) again. Alternatively, the wearable electronic device (401) may stop charging if the specified conditions for power transmission of the electronic device (402) are not satisfied. At this time, the wearable electronic device (401) may enter the charging standby mode (720) again.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) may enter and operate in idle mode (710) when charging of the battery (440) is completed.

[0143] As described above, the wearable electronic device (401) can actively change modes to quickly charge the battery (440). Through this, the wearable electronic device (401) can quickly and conveniently receive power from an external electronic device (402).

[0144] FIG. 7b is a diagram illustrating modes for wirelessly transmitting power to a wearable electronic device by an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 7B, according to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 402 of FIG. 4) may be driven in any one of an idle mode (760), a charge standby mode (770), and a charge mode (780). For example, the idle mode may indicate a mode (or state) in which a setting for charging (or a setting for power transmission) the wearable electronic device (e.g., wearable electronic device 401 of FIG. 4) is released. The charge standby mode (770) may indicate a mode (or state) in which at least one preparatory operation for wirelessly transmitting power is performed. The charge mode (780) may indicate a mode (or state) in which power is wirelessly transmitted from the wearable electronic device (401).

[0146] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402) may be driven in idle mode (760). The wearable electronic device (401) may receive power request information from the wearable electronic device (401) in idle mode (760).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402) may enter and be driven in the charge standby mode (770) based on receiving power request information while driving in the idle mode (760). Depending on the implementation, the electronic device (402) may enter the charge standby mode (770) when certain conditions (e.g., power level conditions or temperature conditions of the battery (475)) are satisfied. Thereafter, the electronic device (402) may enter the idle mode (760) again when the certain conditions (e.g., the power level of the battery (475) is not the charging condition) are not satisfied.

[0148] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (401) may transfer power to the wearable electronic device (401) when the wearable electronic device (401) is brought within a specified distance to the electronic device (402) while the electronic device (401) is in a charging standby mode (770) (or when the hand of the user wearing the wearable electronic device (401) holds the electronic device (402). At this time, the electronic device (402) may enter and be operated in a charging mode (780). Thereafter, the electronic device (402) may enter the charging standby mode (770) again when the proximity of the wearable electronic device (401) is released. Alternatively, the electronic device (402) may stop the charging operation if the specified condition for power transfer of the electronic device (402) is not satisfied. At this time, the electronic device (402) may enter the charging standby mode (770) or the idle mode (760) again.

[0149] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402) may enter and operate in idle mode (760) when the battery (440) of the wearable electronic device (401) is fully charged.

[0150] As described above, the electronic device (402) can actively change modes to quickly charge the battery (440) of the wearable electronic device (401). Through this, the electronic device (402) can quickly and conveniently transmit power to the wearable electronic device (401).

[0151] FIG. 8A is a diagram illustrating an operation of a wearable electronic device wirelessly receiving power from an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 8A, according to one embodiment, when an electronic device (402) (e.g., a smartphone or a wireless charging pad area (810)) is held in the hand of a user wearing a wearable electronic device (401), the electronic device (402) can wirelessly transmit power to the wearable electronic device (401). The wearable electronic device (401) can charge a battery (e.g., a battery (440) of FIG. 4) using power received from an external electronic device (402).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402) can determine whether the electronic device (402) is held in the hand of a user through a sensor (e.g., sensor (472) of FIG. 4). For example, the sensor may include a grip sensor, a touch sensor, and / or a pressure sensor. In addition, the electronic device (402) can determine whether the wearable electronic device (401) is located within a specified distance through a communication circuit (e.g., communication circuit (490) of FIG. 4). Depending on the implementation, the electronic device (402) may also determine whether the wearable electronic device (401) is located within the specified distance using a power transmission circuit (e.g., power transmission circuit (450) of FIG. 4, NFC circuit). If the electronic device (402) is determined to be held in the hand of a user and the wearable electronic device (401) is determined to be located within the specified distance, the electronic device (402) can be determined to be held in the hand of a user wearing the wearable electronic device (401).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402-1) can wirelessly transfer power to a wearable electronic device (401) worn on the hand of a user with a wireless charging pad area (810).

[0155] Through the above-described method, the wearable electronic device (401) can charge the battery (440) while the user is wearing the wearable electronic device (401). Accordingly, the usability and convenience of the wearable electronic device (401) can be increased.

[0156] FIG. 8b is a diagram illustrating an operation of a wearable electronic device wirelessly receiving power from an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 8B, according to one embodiment, when a hand of a user wearing a wearable electronic device (401) is placed on a wireless charging area (e.g., a touchpad (830) of the electronic device (402-1)) of an electronic device (e.g., a laptop), the electronic device (402-1) can wirelessly transmit power to the wearable electronic device (401). For example, the electronic device (402-1) can perform substantially the same function as the electronic device (402) of FIG. 8A. The wearable electronic device (401) can charge a battery (e.g., a battery (440) of FIG. 4) using power received from an external electronic device (402-1).

[0158] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402-1) can determine whether a user's hand is placed on the electronic device (402-1) (e.g., a touchpad (830) of a notebook) through a sensor (e.g., a sensor (472) of FIG. 4). In addition, the electronic device (402-1) can determine whether a wearable electronic device (401) is located within a specified distance through a communication circuit (e.g., a communication circuit (490) of FIG. 4). If the electronic device (402-1) determines that the user's hand is placed on the electronic device (402-1) (e.g., a touchpad (830) of a notebook) and the wearable electronic device (401) is located within the specified distance, the electronic device (402-1) can determine that the user's hand wearing the wearable electronic device (401) is placed on the electronic device (402-1) (e.g., a touchpad (830) of a notebook).

[0159] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402-1) can wirelessly transfer power to a wearable electronic device (401) placed on a touchpad (830) or a wireless charging area.

[0160] Through the above-described method, the wearable electronic device (401) can charge the battery (440) while the user is wearing the wearable electronic device (401). Accordingly, the usability and convenience of the wearable electronic device (401) can be increased.

[0161] FIG. 9A is a diagram showing information related to charging of a wearable electronic device displayed on an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 9A, according to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 402 of FIG. 4) may obtain information on the remaining capacity of a battery (440) of the wearable electronic device (401) from the wearable electronic device (401) while charging the wearable electronic device (401). The electronic device (402) may display information (910) indicating a charging status and information (920) on the remaining capacity of the battery (440) of the wearable electronic device (401) on a display (e.g., display 485 of FIG. 4). In addition, the electronic device (401) may also display information on a device to be charged (e.g., wearable electronic device (401)). Depending on the implementation, the electronic device (401) may further display information on the time required to fully charge the battery (440).

[0163] FIG. 9b is a diagram showing information related to charging of a wearable electronic device displayed on an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 9B, according to one embodiment, when an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (401) of FIG. 4) receives power request information from a wearable electronic device (e.g., the wearable electronic device (401) of FIG. 4), the electronic device may display guide information (930) for inducing charging of the wearable electronic device (401) on a display (e.g., the display (485) of FIG. 4). For example, the guide information (930) may include information for inducing the hand wearing the wearable electronic device (401) to grip the electronic device (402).

[0165] According to another embodiment, the electronic device (402) may display guide information (930) for inducing charging of the wearable electronic device (401) on the display (485) even when it is determined that the user is holding the electronic device (402) with a hand that is not wearing the wearable electronic device (401). For example, the electronic device (402) may display guide information (930) when it is determined that the user's hand is holding the electronic device (402) through a sensor (e.g., sensor (472) of FIG. 4) and the wearable electronic device (401) is located at a distance greater than a specified distance from the electronic device (402).

[0166] According to another embodiment, the electronic device (402) may display guide information (930) on the display (485) to induce charging of the wearable electronic device (401) even when the proximity of the wearable electronic device (401) is released while charging the wearable electronic device (401). For example, if the electronic device (402) determines that the wearable electronic device (401) is located at a distance greater than a specified distance from the electronic device (402) while charging, the electronic device (402) may stop the charging operation and display the guide information (930).

[0167] FIG. 9c is a diagram showing information related to charging of a wearable electronic device displayed on an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 9C, according to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (402) of FIG. 4) may obtain information indicating completion of charging from a wearable electronic device (e.g., wearable electronic device (401) of FIG. 4) when charging of the wearable electronic device is completed. The electronic device (401) may display information (940) indicating completion of charging on a display (e.g., display (485) of FIG. 4).

[0169] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a setup screen for wirelessly providing power to a wearable electronic device by an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 10, according to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (402) of FIG. 4) may activate or deactivate a function of automatically transmitting power when a wearable electronic device (e.g., a wearable electronic device (401) of FIG. 4) is in proximity to the electronic device (401) or a finger of a user wearing the wearable electronic device (401) grips the electronic device (401). Alternatively, the electronic device (402) may activate or deactivate a function of automatically transmitting power when power request information is received from the wearable electronic device (401).

[0171] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (402) may display a setting window (1010) for setting the corresponding function on a display (e.g., display (485) of FIG. 4). The electronic device (402) may activate or deactivate the corresponding function based on a user input for an activation object (1020). According to another embodiment, if the wearable electronic device (401) is a device pre-registered with the electronic device (401), the electronic device (401) may automatically activate the corresponding function. For example, when the display of the electronic device (401) is deactivated (e.g., display off and / or screen locked), if the wearable electronic device (401) is identified as a device that has been pre-registered with the electronic device (401), the electronic device (402) may transmit power to the wearable electronic device (401) without activating the display (e.g., display on and / or screen unlock) in response to power request information received from the wearable electronic device (401). For example, when a wearable electronic device (401) that has been pre-registered with the electronic device (402) requests power transmission to the electronic device (402), the electronic device (402) may omit an authentication procedure for unlocking the screen of the electronic device (402) (e.g., replace an authentication operation with an operation for receiving power request information).

[0172] According to the above-described method, the electronic device (402) can quickly start charging the wearable electronic device (401) even without the user performing a separate input action while wearing the wearable electronic device (401). Through this, the usability and convenience of the wearable electronic device (401) can be increased.

[0173] According to an embodiment, a ring-shaped wearable electronic device (201, 401) may include a battery (440), a power receiving circuit (450), a communication circuit (460), a processor (420), and a memory (430) storing instructions. According to an embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to check a power level of the battery. According to an embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to transmit power request information to an external electronic device (402) through the communication circuit if the power level is determined to be lower than a designated level. According to an embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to operate the wearable electronic device in a charging standby mode for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device based on the transmission of the power request information. In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to set parameters of at least one of the power receiving circuit and the communication circuit to values ​​corresponding to the charging standby mode in order to wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device based on the wearable electronic device being driven in the charging standby mode. In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device through the power receiving circuit when the wearable electronic device being driven in the charging standby mode is located within a specified distance from the external electronic device.

[0174] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to wirelessly receive power from an external electronic device through the power receiving circuit when the external electronic device is held by a hand of a user wearing the wearable electronic device.

[0175] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to determine, through a sensor (410) included in the wearable electronic device, whether the wearable electronic device is worn by a user. In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to determine, based on determining that the wearable electronic device is worn by a user, the power level of the battery.

[0176] According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to change a driving mode of the wearable electronic device from an IDLE mode to the charging standby mode based on transmitting the power request information.

[0177] According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to operate in the idle mode when the battery charging is complete.

[0178] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to stop receiving power from the external electronic device if the wearable electronic device is located outside the specified distance from the external electronic device while wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device.

[0179] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to operate in the charging standby mode based on ceasing to receive the power.

[0180] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device, in the charging standby mode, to activate the power receiving circuit based on the parameters. In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device, in the charging standby mode, to perform a designated portion of a plurality of charging preparation operations for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device through the activated power receiving circuit.

[0181] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to, in the charging standby mode, activate the communication circuit to determine a distance from the external electronic device based on the parameters. In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to, in the charging standby mode, determine a distance from the external electronic device based on a signal received from the external electronic device through the activated communication circuit.

[0182] According to an embodiment, a method for operating a ring-shaped wearable electronic device (201, 401) may include an operation for checking a power level of a battery (440) included in the wearable electronic device. According to an embodiment, a method for operating a ring-shaped wearable electronic device may include an operation for transmitting power request information to an external electronic device (402) through a communication circuit (460) included in the wearable electronic device when the power level is determined to be lower than a specified level. According to an embodiment, a method for operating a ring-shaped wearable electronic device may include an operation for driving the wearable electronic device in a charging standby mode for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device based on the transmission of the power request information. According to an embodiment, a method for operating a ring-shaped wearable electronic device may include an operation for setting parameters of at least one of the power receiving circuit and the communication circuit to values ​​corresponding to the charging standby mode in order to wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device based on the wearable electronic device being driven in the charging standby mode. A method of operating a ring-shaped wearable electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of wirelessly receiving power from an external electronic device through a power receiving circuit (450) included in the wearable electronic device when the wearable electronic device, which is driven in the charging standby mode, is located within a specified distance from the external electronic device.

[0183] The operation of wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device through the power receiving circuit when the external electronic device is held by a hand of a user wearing the wearable electronic device.

[0184] The operation of checking the power level of the battery according to one embodiment may include an operation of checking whether the wearable electronic device is worn by a user through a sensor (410) included in the wearable electronic device. The operation of checking the power level of the battery according to one embodiment may include an operation of checking the power level of the battery based on checking that the wearable electronic device is worn by a user.

[0185] The operation of driving in the charging standby mode according to one embodiment may include an operation of changing the driving mode of the wearable electronic device from an IDLE mode to the charging standby mode based on transmitting the power request information.

[0186] The operating method of the wearable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an operation of driving in the idle mode when the battery charging is completed.

[0187] The operating method of the wearable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an operation of stopping the reception of power from the external electronic device when the wearable electronic device is located outside the specified distance from the external electronic device while wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device.

[0188] The method of operating the wearable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an operation of driving in the charging standby mode based on stopping the reception of the power.

[0189] The method of operating the wearable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include performing, in the charging standby mode, a designated portion of preparatory steps among a plurality of charging preparatory steps for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device.

[0190] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a battery, a power transmission circuit, a communication circuit, a processor, and a memory storing instructions. According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to receive power request information from a ring-shaped wearable electronic device through the communication circuit. According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to determine, based on receiving the power request information, a power level of the battery and whether the electronic device is located at a specified distance from the wearable electronic device. According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to wirelessly transmit power to the wearable electronic device through the power transmission circuit if the power level is higher than a preset level and the electronic device is located within a specified distance from the wearable electronic device.

[0191] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to determine, through a sensor (472) included in the electronic device, whether the user has gripped the electronic device with the hand wearing the wearable electronic device. In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to determine, if it is determined that the user has gripped the electronic device with the hand wearing the wearable electronic device, that the electronic device is located within a specified distance from the wearable electronic device.

[0192] According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may be configured to cause the electronic device to display information related to charging of the wearable electronic device through a display (485) included in the electronic device.

[0193] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0194] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0195] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0196] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (1440)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (1436) or an external memory (1438)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (1401)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (1420)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (1401)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0197] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0198] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In a ring-shaped wearable electronic device (201, 401), Battery (440); Power receiving circuit (450); Communication circuit (460); Processor (420); and A memory (430) for storing instructions, said instructions, when executed by said processor, cause said electronic device to: Check the power level of the above battery, If the power level is determined to be lower than the specified level, power request information is transmitted to an external electronic device (402) through the communication circuit, Based on transmitting the above power request information, driving the wearable electronic device into a charging standby mode for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device; Based on driving the wearable electronic device in the charging standby mode, at least one parameter of the power receiving circuit and the communication circuit is set to values ​​corresponding to the charging standby mode to wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device, A wearable electronic device configured to wirelessly receive power from an external electronic device through the power receiving circuit when the wearable electronic device, which is operated in the charging standby mode, is positioned within a specified distance from the external electronic device.

2. In the first paragraph, the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: A wearable electronic device configured to wirelessly receive power from an external electronic device through the power receiving circuit when the external electronic device is held by a hand of a user wearing the wearable electronic device.

3. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 2, the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: Through the sensor (410) included in the wearable electronic device, it is determined whether the wearable electronic device is worn by the user, A wearable electronic device configured to determine said power level of said battery based on determining that said wearable electronic device is worn by a user.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: A wearable electronic device configured to change the driving mode of the wearable electronic device from an IDLE mode to the charging standby mode based on transmitting the power request information.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: A wearable electronic device set to operate in said idle mode when said battery charging is complete.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: A wearable electronic device configured to stop receiving power from an external electronic device when the wearable electronic device is located outside the designated distance from the external electronic device while receiving power wirelessly from the external electronic device.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: A wearable electronic device set to operate in said charging standby mode based on cessation of receiving said power.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: In the above charging standby mode, the power receiving circuit is activated based on the above parameters, A wearable electronic device configured to perform a designated portion of a plurality of charging preparation operations for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device through the activated power receiving circuit in the charging standby mode.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: In the above charging standby mode, the communication circuit is activated to determine the distance of the wearable electronic device from the external electronic device based on the above parameters, A wearable electronic device configured to determine a distance from an external electronic device based on a signal received from the external electronic device through the activated communication circuit in the charging standby mode.

10. In the operating method of a ring-shaped wearable electronic device (201, 401), An operation of checking the power level of a battery (440) included in the wearable electronic device; An operation of transmitting power request information to an external electronic device (402) through a communication circuit (460) included in the wearable electronic device when the power level is determined to be lower than a specified level; An operation of driving the wearable electronic device into a charging standby mode for wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device based on transmitting the power request information; An operation of setting parameters of at least one of the power receiving circuit and the communication circuit to values ​​corresponding to the charging standby mode to wirelessly receive power from the external electronic device based on the wearable electronic device being driven in the charging standby mode; and A method of operating a wearable electronic device, comprising: receiving power wirelessly from an external electronic device through a power receiving circuit (450) included in the wearable electronic device when the wearable electronic device, which is operated in the charging standby mode, is located within a specified distance from the external electronic device.

11. In the 10th paragraph, the operation of wirelessly receiving power from the external electronic device is as follows: A method of operating a wearable electronic device, comprising an operation of wirelessly receiving power from an external electronic device through the power receiving circuit when the external electronic device is held by a hand of a user wearing the wearable electronic device.

12. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 11, the operation of checking the power level of the battery comprises: An operation of checking whether the wearable electronic device is worn by a user through a sensor (410) included in the wearable electronic device; and A method of operating a wearable electronic device, comprising: determining a power level of said battery based on determining that said wearable electronic device is worn by a user.

13. In any one of clauses 10 to 12, the operation of driving in the charging standby mode is: A method of operating a wearable electronic device, comprising: changing a driving mode of the wearable electronic device from an IDLE mode to a charging standby mode based on transmitting the power request information.

14. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 13, A method of operating a wearable electronic device, further comprising operating in the idle mode when the battery charging is completed.

15. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 14, A method of operating a wearable electronic device, further comprising an action of stopping reception of power from the external electronic device when the wearable electronic device is located outside the specified distance from the external electronic device while receiving power wirelessly from the external electronic device.

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