Wireless charging device network with stackable power packs

Abstract

A charging device network includes power packs or other devices, each having one or more wireless charging ports for transmitting or receiving power or charge. In certain embodiments, at least some of these ports are dynamically configurable, allowing a single device to receive charge on one port while transmitting charge on another, or switch between roles based on a network charging algorithm. The network can include devices with a single wireless charging port as well as devices featuring multiple ports. Charge may be passed sequentially or in parallel among power packs, phones, earbuds, and other devices, optionally supplemented by wired interfaces for added flexibility. Real‐time data such as device battery level or defined priorities can be communicated through the wireless charging connection to optimize power distribution. This enables an arbitrarily expandable set of devices to be stacked or otherwise positioned in proximity, forming a dynamic charging ecosystem.

Description

WIRELESS CHARGING DEVICE NETWORK WITH STACKABLE POWER PACKSRELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 566,272 filed March 16, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of wireless charging electronic devices including but not limited to phones, power packs and earbuds. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to apparatuses, methods, and systems of charging devices with more than one wireless charging port to allow receiving and transmitting charge to more than one adjacent device.BACKGROUND INFORMATION

[0003] Conventional devices employing wireless charging include cell phones, ear buds, docking stations, and power packs (also known as power banks). Wireless charging is any method to transfer charge from one device to another that does not involve wires or other direct electrical connections between the two devices. Most wireless charging methods use coils to transfer charge from one device to another. Time varying electric current is supplied to a coil, or coils, in a first device which generates a time varying magnetic field which interacts with a coil, or coils, in a second device inducing electric current in those coil or coils effectively transferring charge from the first device to the second device. The charge transferred to the second device may be used to power the operation of that device.

[0004] The charging coil, or coils, in the first device, which supplies charge to a second device, is / are called the transmitter coil, or transmitter coils, (herein designated by Tx) and the charging coil, or coils, in the second device, which receives charge from the first device, is / are called the receiver coil or receiver coils (herein designated by Rx). In some devices, the charging coils have a fixed configuration in that they operate as either a transmitter coil (Tx) or a receiver coil (Rx) but not both. And, in some systems, the charging coils can be dynamically configured operate as either a transmitter coil (Tx) or a receiver coil (Rx). The region of the first device that transmits charge wirelessly to the second device is called a wireless charging port. Similarly, the region of the second device that receives charge wirelessly is also called a wireless charging port. More generally, the transmitter (Tx) or the receiver (Rx) designations also apply to the wireless charging port, irrespective of the wireless charging method employed.

[0005] Legacy devices with wireless charging ports are designed to transfer charge from a first device to a second device. For instance, a wireless power pack or docking station may provide charge to one or more devices such a phone, ear buds, or a watch. However, legacy devices are not designed to receive power wirelessly from one device and transmit power to another in a dynamically controlled manner. Therefore, these devices cannot be connected in series, or into a network configuration, to share charge across multiple devices in a controlled way.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0006] The present disclosure relates to apparatuses, systems, and methods for designing multi-port wireless charging systems. A device equipped with more than one wireless charging port can receive charge from one device on one port while simultaneously transmitting charge to another device on a different port, or multiple devices on multiple ports. Alternatively, some or all of the charge may be stored for a period and then transmitted to another device, or devices, at a later time. In certain embodiments, the amount of charge received may differ from the amount of charge delivered, thus allowing flexible distribution of energy among multiple devices such as power packs, phones, ear buds, or charging stations. Some devices may additionally include wired interfaces for transferring charge or data to and from external devices. Data may also be transferred to other devices across the wireless charging port or via other wireless means.

[0007] In various embodiments, a wireless charging port may automatically detect whether another device’s wireless port is in proper proximity for transferring charge (or power). The ports themselves can be statically designated as a transmitter (Tx) or receiver (Rx), or they may be programmed to switch roles. During operation, information about device type, charge level, maximum charge capacity, charging preferences, or other information can be transmitted through the wireless charging port or by other communication protocols (e.g., Bluetooth or a direct electrical connection). This information enables one or more algorithms to control the rate and enablement of receiving or transmitting charge, taking factors like stored power (or charge) in the device, the presence and state of adjacent devices, a specified charging priority, and other factors into account.

[0008] Thus, in its broadest form, the disclosure introduces a device with a wireless charging port, capable of acting as a receiver or transmitter. One or more of these ports may be fixed in one role (Tx or Rx), while others may be dynamically reconfigured or turned off entirely, depending on conditions or user preferences. An arbitrary number of single-port and multi-port wireless charging devices can thereby form a network, moving chargebetween devices as needed. Such an arrangement can be governed by a network charging algorithm that monitors and adjusts power flows between devices in response to real-time information, optimizing charge distribution among participating nodes.

[0009] A network charging algorithm is generally the result of collective operations controlled by most or all of the individual devices in the charging network. Those operations at the individual level may be based solely on information or data related to the operation or configuration of that specific device (such as charge level, number and configuration of active and inactive charging ports, temperature, wired connection to external power sources, wired connections to devices to be powered, etc.) or may take in account information related to the network or other devices on the network (such as number of device in the network, configuration of the network, data related to individual devices on the network, types of devices on the network, etc.). In some embodiments, the network algorithm may be managed or influenced by one or more devices that are part of the charging device network or separate from the charging device network. For the purposes of this disclosure, transmitting or transferring power between devices is synonymous with transmitting or transferring charge.

[0010] The present disclosure relates to a wireless charging device network system comprising a plurality of devices, each having at least one wireless charging port configured to transmit or receive electrical charge. In particular, at least one device in the network includes a first wireless charging port configured to receive electrical charge from a second device and a second wireless charging port configured to transmit at least a portion of the received or stored electrical charge to a third device. The devices in the network may be arranged in a stackable configuration, wherein charge transfer occurs between adjacent devices in a coordinated manner based on predefined charge preferences.

[0011] The system utilizes control circuitry to dynamically manage charge distribution among multiple devices based on factors such as battery level, priority settings, or network topology. In some embodiments, the control circuitry enables the wireless charging ports to dynamically switch between transmitting and receiving modes depending on charge conditions. The system may further include sensors for detecting the presence of adjacent devices, thereby allowing for adaptive charge transfer. Additionally, the network may employ data communication through the wireless charging ports to exchange information regarding charge levels, device status, or identification.

[0012] The devices in the wireless charging network may include power packs with internal rechargeable batteries, which can store received charge for later use. Someembodiments incorporate a wired charging port for receiving charge from an external power source, with the system dynamically adjusting charge transfer roles accordingly. In certain configurations, a single wireless charging port may transmit charge to multiple devices simultaneously, with circuitry allocating power based on priority settings or charge demand.

[0013] The network may include a portable power station comprising multiple hot- swappable power packs for uninterrupted power delivery. Charge transfer can be prioritized based on physical positioning within a stack, with the system optimizing charge distribution accordingly. Additionally, the system allows for charge passthrough, wherein a device transfers received charge to another device without first storing it internally.

[0014] A method for transferring charge in a wireless charging network is also disclosed, involving a first device receiving charge from a second device, transmitting charge to a third device, and dynamically configuring its wireless charging ports based on charge transfer conditions. The method includes detecting the presence of adjacent devices, adjusting charge transfer based on device priority, and facilitating simultaneous charge transmission to multiple devices when necessary. The method further enables data transmission between devices to optimize charge allocation and coordination within the charging network.

[0015] These features enable an adaptable and efficient wireless charging network, facilitating power transfer across multiple devices in various configurations while optimizing charge distribution based on dynamic control algorithms. Additional aspects and advantages will be apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] To easily identify the discussion of any particular element or act, the most significant digit or digits in a reference number refer to the figure number in which that element is first introduced.

[0017] FIG. l is a perspective view of a dual-power power pack for wireless charging, according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of three, dual-port power packs forming a charging device network, according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 3 A and FIG. 3B are, respectively, top and bottom portions of a sequence diagram showing a dynamic discovery process for charging device network, according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of a four-device charging device network, according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of a power pack being used with a car phone holder and a smartphone, according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of two, dual-port power packs passing through power from an external power cable to a smartphone, according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a dual-port power pack being charged with a power cable and transferring charge to a set of ear buds and a smartphone, according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a smartphone with a magnetically attached accessory that does not have a wireless charging port, according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a side elevation view of a stack of three power packs, a set of ear buds, and a smartphone being charged by a single power cable connected to the third power pack, however, per previous examples, power cable can be connected to any of the power packs, according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 10 is a side elevation view of a stack of three power packs, one ear bud, and a smartphone being charged with a wired connection to one of the power packs, according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 11 is a side elevation view of charging dock with a stack of two power packs and ear buds, smartphone, and watch, according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a portable power station for home, worksite, or camping, according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another power pack for home, worksite, or camping, according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 14 illustrates a routine for transferring electrical charge in a wireless charging device network system, in accordance with one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 15 is a block diagram of components for implementing a charging device network, according to one embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0032] FIG. 1 shows an example power pack 100 having a top-side wireless charging port 102 and a bottom-side wireless charging port 104 (hidden from direct view). Before describing these components in detail, the following definitions apply throughout this disclosure.

[0033] As used herein, the terms charge and power are employed interchangeably to refer generally to electrical energy transferred from one device to another, for immediate use or storage, or a combination thereof. Thus, references to transferring or transmitting charge or power between devices should be understood broadly to encompass the transfer of electrical energy, regardless of whether that energy originates from or is stored in a battery, capacitor, external source, or other storage device. The use of these terms does not imply a requirement for any particular type of energy storage or specific electrical component within the transmitting or receiving devices.

[0034] Charging is defined as the process of transferring or transmitting charge from a first device to a second device that receives charge. It need not require that a battery or any energy storage device be included in the first device, nor that the source of charge in the first device be a battery or energy storage device. Likewise, it need not require that the second device itself contains or is charging a battery. For example, a first device may transfer charge to a second device, which can in turn transfer some or all of that charge to a third device. Because charging typically is not 100% efficient, the amount of charge received by the second device may be less than the amount transmitted by the first device. Charging may be accomplished via a wired electrical connection (for example, through a cable or connector) or wirelessly using any suitable wireless power transfer method that does not rely on direct electrical conduction between the devices.

[0035] A wireless charging port, as used herein, is a region of a device that can transmit or receive charge wirelessly rather than a physical receptacle or socket. A wireless charging port may include one or more wireless charging coils or rely on alternative wireless power transfer components, such as inductive or resonant technologies. When the wireless charging port of one device is brought into suitable proximity and alignment with a compatible port of another device, charge can be transferred between them. While “port” often implies a connector in other contexts, here it denotes an interface aligned with an internal coil or other transmission component, rather than a physical plug or opening. This terminology is consistent with industry usage and encompasses any surface region or housing feature that facilitates wireless charging.

[0036] A wireless charging coil in a wireless charging port can be configured to transmit or receive power. A coil configured for transmission is referred to as a transmitting wireless charging coil (Tx), and one configured for receiving is referred to as a receiving wireless charging coil (Rx). In some devices, a single coil can be dynamically reconfigured as Tx or Rx (i.e., bidirectional port). For clarity, this disclosure designates a coil as Tx when it is described transmitting charge, and as Rx when it is described receiving charge.Embodiments herein are not limited only to devices with coils; other wireless charging elements or standards (such as inductive, resonant, or future protocols) may likewise be designated Tx when transmitting and Rx when receiving.

[0037] Returning now to FIG. 1, top-side wireless charging port 102 includes an internal top-side wireless charging coil 106, whose outline or projection is shown on top side 108, front end 110, and lateral side 112 of power pack 100. Bottom-side wireless charging port 104 includes an internal bottom-side wireless charging coil 114, whose outline or projection is indicated on front end 110 and lateral side 112.

[0038] In some embodiments, each wireless charging port 102 and 104 may be configured as a transmitter (Tx) or a receiver (Rx). In certain embodiments, these roles remain fixed (for example, the top-side port as Tx and the bottom-side port as Rx). For instance, top-side wireless charging port 102 may be fixed as a transmitter while bottom-side wireless charging port 104 is fixed as a receiver, or vice versa. This arrangement allows, for example, receiving charge wirelessly on one port while simultaneously or asynchronously transmitting charge wirelessly on another port or wired connection. In other embodiments, both ports may dynamically switch roles under control of a network charging algorithm, meaning each port can independently operate as Tx or Rx. This capability enables the formation of charging device networks that include multiple devices, wherein charge can be passed along from one device to the next as needed. Thus, a collection of devices, such as power banks, cell phones, ear buds or other devices, with wireless or wireless connections that share charge and or information between those devices, constitutes a charging device network.

[0039] Power pack 100 (also referred to as a power bank) may contain an internal battery (not shown) that stores energy received from an external power source. Power pack 100 further includes an input power charging receptacle 116 on a rear end 118, for receiving power via a power cable 120 (for example, a USB-C cable). An output power delivery receptacle 122, such as a USB-A port, is accessible on front end 110. A power cable may be any electrical cable used to provide power to a power pack, docking station, phone, ear buds, or other device.

[0040] Internal top-side wireless charging coil 106 and internal bottom-side wireless charging coil 114 can be circular, rectangular, or any suitable shape, and they may employ any compatible wireless charging standard. Commonly recognized wireless charging protocols include Qi (developed by the Wireless Power Consortium), PMA or AirFuel Inductive (originally developed by the Power Matters Alliance), and Rezence or AirFuelResonant, which supports charging multiple devices simultaneously. Apple’s MagSafe is another example, built on Qi but enhanced with magnetic alignment and additional communications. Emerging standards like Qi2 integrate magnetic alignment features into Qi for improved efficiency and user experience.

[0041] In various embodiments, additional wireless charging ports, different coil geometries, or non-planar surfaces may be employed. Similarly, wired electrical power connections may be omitted. In alternate embodiments, a power pack could include more than two wireless charging ports, for instance by placing an additional port on a side surface or on a front surface. In some embodiments, one or more wireless charging ports may encompass multiple coils, enabling improved alignment or power transfer coverage. The external geometry of the device can also vary, including designs with a different number of surfaces (for example, a three-sided or cylindrical form factor), as well as non-planar surfaces or flexible materials that contour to other objects. Such configurations may still incorporate any of the wireless charging components, roles (one or both transmitter or receiver), and control algorithms described in greater detail below.

[0042] Three devices shown in FIG. 2 form an example of a charging device network where charge and information can be shared directly or indirectly between each of the devices via the coils, electrical connections, magnetic interactions, mechanical sensors, or other wireless means. In the example of FIG. 2, a three-device charging device network 200 shows how charge may be transferred among a device A 202, a device B 204, and a device C 206. The manner in which charge is transferred between A 202, B 204 and C 206 is controlled by the charge control algorithm which, among other things, determines the settings of the charging ports to Tx or Rx mode, the rate of charge transfer between devices, and whether or not charge is transferred between devices. Although each device is depicted with two wireless charging ports, in other embodiments either device A 202 or device C 206 could have only a single port (or additional ports).

[0043] In the configuration shown, device B 204 may receive charge through port 208, when it is set to Rx mode, from port 210 of device A 202 if it is set to Tx mode. Similarly, device B 204 may transfer charge through port 212 when it is in Tx mode to port 214 of device C 206 if it is in Rx mode. Thus, device B 204 can function as a power passthrough link in charging device network 200. Alternatively, device B 204 could elect to store all or some power and send a remaining portion, if any, to device C 206.

[0044] Ports 216 on device C 206 and 218 on device A 202 are present in this figure but remain unused in the illustrated scenario. They could, however, be employed in otherconfigurations — for example, to form additional Tx^Rx connections or to link more devices into charging device network 200. In any embodiment, ports may be statically configured as Tx or Rx, or they may dynamically switch roles under control of a network charging algorithm. Accordingly, although FIG. 2 shows only three devices, charging device network 200 is not limited to any particular number of devices or ports. In some embodiments, a multi-port device can receive charge on one port and forward some or all of that charge through another port to another device. A network charging algorithm may govern the timing, rate, and direction of charge flow based on various conditions, including device charge levels, capacity, user-defined priorities, or the addition and removal of devices from the network.

[0045] With reference to the embodiments described herein, two example control approaches may be used: an individual (local) algorithm and a collective algorithm. Under the individual approach, each device independently decides whether to accept charge on a given port (for example, when not fully charged or when forwarding that charge to another device on a different port) without necessarily knowing other devices’ exact states. By contrast, under a collective algorithm, devices exchange additional information, such as charge levels, device types, and network configuration, charging port state (e g., Tx or Rx) or other information allowing for more centralized or coordinated decisions about power flow.

[0046] Under an example of an individual (local) algorithm, each power pack may be programmed to accept charge through one port set to Rx mode if either (1) the power pack is not fully charged, or (2) it has another port set to Tx mode which is coupled to another device that is currently able to accept charge (e.g., it is sensed as a load or communicates it is accepting). If the first condition exists, but the second condition does not, then the power pack would store the received charge until it is fully charged at which time the power pack would stop receiving charge. If the first condition does not exist (i.e., the power pack is fully charged) but the second condition exists then the charge transfers to the other device. If both conditions exist, then a portion of the charge could be stored and a portion could be transferred to the other device. Alternatively, all the charge could be stored (until the device is fully charge) or all the charge could be transferred to the other device (until that device no longer accepts charge).

[0047] For an example of how a charging device network might function with the devices using an individual algorithm, consider FIG. 2, where devices A 202, B 204, and C 206 each have an upper coil and a lower coil, and all three have the same charge capacity. Suppose device C 206 is initially fully charged, while devices B 204 and A 202 are empty. Device C206 transmits power from its lower coil 214 (set to Tx) to upper coil 212 (set to Rx) of device B 204. Since device B 204 itself is uncharged and thus accepts power (condition 1), it also detects that its bottom coil 208 (set to Tx) is coupled to device A 202, (via upper coil 210 set to Rx) which is able to accept power (condition 2). Consequently, device B 204 could immediately pass some or all of the power it is receiving to device A 202’ s upper coil 210. Device A 202, in turn, sees no further device beneath it (coil 218 is unused), so it stores the charge. Over time, device C 206’s battery depletes, while devices B 204 and A 202 become charged, subject to efficiency losses in the transfers. And device B 204 may eventually become fully discharged as its charge transfers to device A 202.

[0048] If the initial states were different — say, with device B 204 partially charged, device A 202 empty, and device C 206 empty — a similar logic applies. Device B 204 would discharge power to device A 202 because device A 202 would accept charge as long as it is not fully charged (condition 1). Eventually all of the charge in device B 204 would be transferred to device A 202. However, while device B 204 is transferring charge to device A 202 it could receive charge from device C 206. Assuming the rate of charge transfer from device B 204 to device A 202 is at the maximum rate, then no additional power can be transferred from B 204 to device A 202 (condition 2 not met) and the charge transferred from C 206 would be store in device B 204 (because condition 1 is met) until such time it can be transferred to device A 202. Thus, in this example of an individual algorithm, regardless of each device’s starting state, the same rule — accept if not full or if a device below is actively drawing — governs how charge is directed and stored.

[0049] Some devices in the charging device network may implement different control algorithms than those described above, and some may transfer charge or information to nonadj acent devices. For example, device A 202 could exchange power or data directly with device C 206. Moreover, not all devices in the network necessarily have two wireless coils; certain devices (such as cell phones) may include only a single coil. In addition, one or more devices in the network may incorporate an external power cable in lieu of, or in addition to, a wireless port, and the control algorithm can manage any power delivered via that cable.

[0050] Turning again to FIG. 2, consider a collective control algorithm applied to three power banks of equal storage capacity, each having an upper coil (216, 212, 210) and a lower coil (214, 208, 218). Unlike the local approach, this collective algorithm allows each device to gather data about itself and other devices in the network, which could include device type, physical arrangement or mapping, charge levels, current state of the coils of allthe devices (e.g. Rx or Tx) and any user-defined priorities for charging order (for example, which device should be charged first, or if all devices should be charged simultaneously).

[0051] Under one example, each device senses whether any neighbor is attached at each port and queries that neighbor for information, such as its own charge status or awareness of additional devices in the network. By passing these details along, every device can develop a global view of the network, enabling them to coordinate power routing from one or more locations to one or more other locations. In some embodiments, information is passed back and forth building a data set that contains the global information related to the network (network map, device types, device charge levels, coil configurations, etc.) which is shared among the devices. It may take several iterations of communications to build a full and complete data set, and at times as the data set builds and propagates across the network, there may be missing information in some or all of the devices. Therefore, it may be desirable for the charging device network to have full or limited operations based on an incomplete data set until a full and complete data set may be compiled. Even after a full and complete data set is compiled, it may be desirable to continue to pass information back and forth across the network to provide updates on device states and network configurations (e g., the addition or subtraction of devices).

[0052] For instance, suppose device C 206 is fully charged, device B 204 is at 25% charge, and device A 202 is also at 25%. A collective algorithm might specify that device A 202 has highest priority, device B 204 second priority, and device C 206 lowest. In this case, device C 206 would route charge to device B 204 after setting device C lower coil 214 to Tx and device B upper coil to Rx, and device B 204 would route charge to device A 202 after setting device B lower coil 208 to Tx and device A upper coil 210 to Rx. Some or all of the charge received by device B 204 from device C 206 may be stored for a time in device B 204 before being transferred to device A 204. After device A 202 is full, any remaining charge in device C 206 transfers to device B 204, leaving device A 202 at 100%, device B 204 at about 50%, and device C 206 discharged (minus efficiency losses).

[0053] Alternatively, when charging device network 200 is arranged vertically on a tabletop, the device on top (device C 206 in this example) could be thought of as the last in on a LIFO (last in, first out) stack, which might mean it becomes the first candidate to receive power under certain priority rules. This physical arrangement can naturally suggest algorithms that treat the topmost device as highest or lowest priority, depending on user needs or design criteria. In accordance with some embodiments, outside charge may be provided to charging device network 200 via device A’s (or any device at the bottom of thestack) port 218, and / or one or more wired connections to device A 202, device B 204, device C 206 or any other device added to the stack.

[0054] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B illustrate aspects of dynamic discovery process 300, which enables devices in a charging device network to autonomously detect, configure, and establish charge transfer pathways. Although these figures show some steps are preformed in parallel on different devices, the particular sequence show need not be performed synchronously or in the particular order depicted.

[0055] FIG. 3 A depicts device A 202, device B 204, and device C 206 each have two wireless charging ports, as described previously. Initial device data sets 302, 304, and 306 show the devices have not yet detected other devices in proximity, and all ports are initially set to an undefined or inactive state. The data sets also include information about the map of devices (e.g., a map designated with the letter “A” signifies device A 202 with no other know devices connected, a map designated with the letters “A-B” signifies devices A 202 and B 204 are connected, and a map designated with the letters “A-B-C” signifies devices A 202, B 204 and C 206 are connected with device B 204 located between devices A 202 and C 206). The initial charging algorithm is configured, which in this example is moves charge from a first port to a second port (e.g., passthrough mode). The current charge levels are also included in the data set. Other data related to each device could also be included.

[0056] Next, port detection 308, 310, and 312 processes are run locally on each device in order to update device data sets 314, 316, and 318 for each device. For instance, each device enters a detection phase in which it senses whether other devices are aligned at its charging ports and able to accept additional charge. These maps show the current port configuration (examples of which were described previously), charge level, and algorithmic preference for charge transfer.

[0057] With reference to FIG. 3B, it illustrates the progression of dynamic discovery process 300 as devices establish their roles in charging device network 200. As device A 202, device B 204, and device C 206 detect adjacent devices at exchange device data sets. As devices exchange information within charging device network 200, each device ultimately obtains sufficient data in their data sets to execute a charge distribution strategy that prioritizes which device receives power first.

[0058] The data set updating process begins with device A 202 messaging 320 its local device data set 314 to device B 204. Device B 204 aggregates that information with its local device data set 316 to message 322 a combined A-B data set back to device A 202, and message 324 that same information to device C 206. In response, device C 206 aggregatesthe information to message 326 a combined A-B-C data set to device B 204, which messages 328 it to device A 202. The end results is that each device has a complete device state map 330, 332, and 334 of port configurations, charging algorithm preference, charge level, or other information in charging device network 200. This process allows for flexible device stacking and adaptive charge routing based on real-time network conditions. At this point, charging can proceed as described above, or changes can be prorogated to local algorithms or port configurations. The data set exchange process repeats periodically to detect changes to the network including addition or subtraction of devices, changes in charge level, changes to the network control algorithm etc.

[0059] Through this iterative information exchange, devices dynamically configure their wireless charging ports as transmitters (Tx) or receivers (Rx) based on the network’s charging hierarchy. The discovery process allows each device to make real-time charge transfer decisions in accordance with predetermined priorities, such as device type, available power storage, or predefined charging sequences.

[0060] FIG. 4 shows an example of a four-device charging device network 400 in which charge can be distributed among a device A 402, a device B 404, a device C 406, and a device D 408. In this illustration, device A 402, device C 406, and device B 404 form a stack, as described previously with reference to FIG. 2. In addition, device B 404 includes an end wall wireless charging port 410 and device D 408 includes an end wall wireless charging port 412.

[0061] As explained previously, some or all of these wireless charging ports shown in FIG. 4 may remain fixed as Tx or Rx, while in other cases they may dynamically switch roles in response to a network charging algorithm. This algorithm can control the timing and rate of charge transfer among any of the four devices, taking into account factors such as device battery levels, capacity, user-defined priorities, or the addition and removal of devices from charging device network 400.

[0062] FIG. 5 shows a charging device network 500 in which a car phone holder with a wireless charging port 502, a power pack 504, and a smartphone 506 are arranged so that charge flows in sequence through the stack. Accordingly, wireless charging port 502, configured as a transmitter (Tx), delivers power to a first-side wireless charging port 508 of power pack 504 port, configured as a receiver (Rx). Simultaneously or subsequently, power pack 504, upon receiving that charge, can transmit (via another a second-side wireless charging port 510 in Tx mode) to a back-side wireless charging port 512 of smartphone 506, which is in Rx mode.

[0063] A power cable 514 supplies power to car phone holder 516, allowing this daisychain arrangement to operate under the control of a network charging algorithm. In some embodiments, the network charging algorithm may regulate when and how much charge is passed from car phone holder 516 to power pack 504 and from power pack 504 to smartphone 506, taking into account factors such as battery levels and user-defined priorities.

[0064] Skilled persons will appreciate that power pack 504 need not transfer all power it receives. In some instances, it may prioritize charging its internal battery while providing a reduced amount of power to smartphone 506.

[0065] FIG. 6 illustrates another side-view arrangement of charging device network 600, which is similar to charging device network 500. However, instead of car phone holder 516, there is first power pack 602 with a single wireless charging port 604, which can be either statically configured in Tx mode, or dynamically configured as either Tx or Rx mode. When it is in Tx mode, wireless charging port 604 operates like wireless charging port 502 described previously, e.g., to charge a second power pack 606 that optionally passes power through to a smartphone 608 or other device. Specifically, in this example, a first-side wireless charging port 610 is in Rx mode, a second-side wireless charging port 612 is in Tx mode, and a back-side wireless charging port 614 receives power for smartphone 608 in Rx mode to accept power from whichever pack is supplying charge. An optional power cable 616 is a source of power, which is directly coupled to power pack 602. Optional power cable 616 may also be connected to power pack 606 to provide power to smartphone 608, power pack 606 and power pack 602 in accordance to a charging network charging algorithm.

[0066] In an alternate scenario, power pack 606 may be plugged in; in that case, it can transmit power to both smartphone 608 and power pack 602 or other device (see, e g., an ear buds case in FIG. 7). Of course, either power pack may incorporate one or more wireless charging ports capable of operating in transmitter (Tx) or receiver (Rx) mode. And power may be suppled from internal batteries, without power cable 616. Thus, FIG. 6 demonstrates how different power packs can dynamically switch between Tx and Rx modes to form a flexible charging network with two power packs, with the rate and timing of power transfers managed by a network charging algorithm. The algorithm may account for the devices’ battery levels, overall capacity, and user preferences (for example, which device should charge first), ensuring an optimal distribution of power among the connected devices.

[0067] FIG. 7 shows another charging device network 700. As noted above, in this example, a single power pack 702 supplies power to a smartphone 704 via its port on one side and an ear buds case 706, watch 708, or other device via port(s) on the opposing side. In this example, power pack 702 includes multiple charging regions on a single surface to accommodate simultaneous charging of both ear buds case 706 and watch 708.

[0068] After charging ear buds case 706 or other device on a back side, FIG. 8 shows how that device can be removed from power pack 702 and a wallet 802 can be magnetically coupled to power pack 702. In this example, wallet 802 is a conventional accessory designed to magnetically couple to smartphone 704. Thus, power pack 702 does not interfere with ability to use such accessories.

[0069] FIG. 9 shows another charging device network 900. Functionally, this example in FIG. 9 is analogous to that of FIG. 7, but there is a stack of three dual-port power packs instead of one dual-port pack (FIG. 7) or two power packs (including dual and single ports) (FIG. 6). The stack of three has more permutation in terms of how power is delivered. In this example, however, power from power cable 902 is passed from a topmost power pack 904 that has both its ports in Tx mode. Thus, power is delivered to ear buds case 906 (on one side) and through its other side to two intermediate power packs 908, 910 (both in pass through mode) and ultimately delivered to a smartphone 912.

[0070] With reference to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, skilled persons will appreciate that the configuration of ports would depend on which power pack that a power cable is coupled to, port configurations (dual or single), and which power pack(s) are being preferentially charged or discharged and potentially other factors that could be considered for a network charging algorithm. For instance, FIG. 10 shows another charging device network 1000 with a stack of three power packs. In contrast to FIG. 9, however, power cable 1002 is supplying power to an intermediate, dual-port power pack 1004. Power pack 1004 is also receiving power from a single-port power pack 1006, which has a large internal battery for supplying power to a smartphone 1008 via power cable 1010. Simultaneously or asynchronously, power pack 1004 provides power to power pack 1012, which passes at least some of it through to an ear buds case 1014.

[0071] Skilled persons will appreciate that, in some other embodiments, power pack 1004 is currently receiving power through power cable 1002, both its ports may be dynamically configured to Tx mode in response to being plugged in or receiving power from an external source. In that case, power pack 1006 and power pack 1012 are receiving power from powerpack 1004. Changing position of power cable 1002 to another power pack could again trigger a reconfiguration of ports.

[0072] FIG. 11 illustrates another charging device network 1100 in which a charging docking station 1102, supplied by a power cord on its right side, includes three distinct wireless charging ports (#1, #2, and #3). A smartphone 1104 rests on the left above port #1, receiving charge from that port’s transmitting coil. On the right side, a smartwatch 1106 is positioned above port #3, likewise receiving charge wirelessly. In the center, two, dual-port power packs 1108 are stacked atop port #2, each capable of both transmitting and receiving charge, depending on their configuration. As shown, port #2 provides power and both power packs 1108 are in passthrough mode to power ear buds case 1110 (Rx mode) placed on top.

[0073] This embodiment demonstrates how multiple devices, each with one or more wireless charging ports (Tx or Rx), may cooperatively transfer power under the control of a network charging algorithm. The phone, watch, power packs, and ear buds each have internal wireless charging ports (or coils) suitable for receiving or transmitting charge as needed, and the docking station’s three wireless charging ports supply power in parallel. The rate, timing, and other characteristics of the charge transfer among these devices may be dynamically controlled by the network charging algorithm, taking into account factors such as battery levels, device capacities, user-defined priorities, or the presence and removal of devices from the docking station.

[0074] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a portable power station 1200 suitable for use at home, worksites, or during outdoor activities such as camping. In the illustrated embodiment, portable power station 1200 includes a charging case 1202 with an internal charging device network 1204 comprising multiple removable power packs 1206. Charging device network 1204 functions as described previously, but at higher power levels for supporting increased loads and mains voltages. Each of these power packs 1206 may be independently removed or inserted, providing hot-swap capability for uninterrupted power delivery.

[0075] An additional external charging device network 1208 consisting of a stack of power packs 1206 and a charging base 1210 is also shown. Charging device network 1208 can be used to charge power packs 1206 separately from charging case 1202, for instance in the sane manner of the LIFO (last in, first out) stack described above, to allow for enabling power packs 1206 to be used in the charging case 1202 or to power other devices.

[0076] Portable power station 1200 further includes an internal inverter 1212 to provide AC power via mains outlet 1214, allowing users to operate standard household appliances ortools. Charging and power delivery can also occur through various receptacles 1216, such as USB-C ports or other suitable interfaces. User interfaces 1218 and 1220 provide status indicators (such as charge level or power usage) and control inputs, facilitating intuitive operation. Alternative embodiments may integrate additional components or functions, including portable cooling, uninterrupted power supply (UPS) functionality, solar energy storage, or home power backup capabilities.

[0077] FIG. 13 shows in greater detail an example of power pack 1206. Power pack 1206 includes user interface 1220, a power button 1302, and a charge cord receptacles 1304. As described previously, wireless charging ports are located on top and bottom surfaces.

[0078] FIG. 14 shows a routine 1400 for transferring electrical charge in a wireless charging device network system, the wireless charging device network system having a plurality of devices, each device comprising a wireless charging port. In block 1402, routine 1400 receives, by a first device via its first wireless charging port, electrical charge from a second device. In block 1404, routine 1400 transmits, by the first device via a second wireless charging port, received or stored electrical charge to a third device. In block 1406, routine 1400 configures, by circuitry in the first device, the first and second wireless charging ports as a transmitter or receiver based on a charge transfer condition.

[0079] FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating components 1500 of a wireless charging device network system, according to some embodiments. Components 1500 include hardware resources 1502 to execute instructions stored in a machine-readable medium to manage charge transfer operations, dynamically configure wireless charging ports, and communicate device states 1504 across a charging device network.

[0080] Hardware resources 1502 may be implemented in a power pack, portable power station, or another device participating in a wireless charging system. In this example, hardware resources 1502 include circuitry in the form of processors 1506, memory / storage devices 1508, and communication resources 1510, communicatively coupled via bus 1512. Processors 1506 execute charge control logic to manage wireless power transfer, determine charging priorities, and dynamically reconfigure charging ports between transmission (Tx) and reception (Rx) modes.

[0081] Processors 1506 include one or more processing units, such as processor 1514 and processor 1516, which execute instructions 1518 for charge management algorithms, port configuration control, and network communication. For instance, instructions 1518 configure hardware resources 1502 to perform aspects of dynamic discovery process 300 or routine 1400. Processors may include a microcontroller unit (MCU), digital signal processor(DSP), or application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) optimized for wireless power management.

[0082] Memory / storage devices 1508 store instructions 1518 and data related to device charge levels, port states, and network topology. These may include volatile memory such as DRAM or SRAM for real-time charge control and non-volatile memory such as Flash or EEPROM for storing user-defined charge preferences, historical charge data, and firmware updates.

[0083] Communication resources 1510 facilitate data exchange between devices in a charging device network. These may include near-field communication (NFC) components, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) modules, radio frequency (RF) transceivers, or proprietary wireless signaling interfaces that allow devices to detect adjacent devices, determine powersharing requirements, and coordinate charge transfer. In some embodiments, communication resources 1510 also enable wired communication via USB-C, USB-A, or other electrical interfaces for alternative power transfer paths.

[0084] Charging devices 1520 represent other power packs or wirelessly chargeable devices in a network, which communicate via instructions 1518 to exchange charge level data and port status. These devices can participate in charge redistribution based on charge control algorithms, which dynamically adjust transmission and reception configurations to optimize energy flow.

[0085] Wireless charging network 1522 represents an interconnected set of devices that share charge wirelessly. Devices within a network coordinate charge transfer through device states 1504, which store information such as battery levels, charging priorities, and whether a device is actively transmitting or receiving charge. Device states 1504 can be shared across a network to optimize power distribution.

[0086] Device states 1504 store operational data used by charge control logic. This data allows a system to apply predetermined charge preferences, such as prioritizing charge transfer based on battery levels, physical stacking order, or user-defined rules. A system may also implement load-balancing algorithms that distribute power across multiple devices efficiently.

[0087] In some embodiments, circuitry within processors 1506 evaluates conditions such as available power, device proximity, and charging demand to make real-time decisions on charge distribution. Charge control algorithms may operate in a decentralized manner, where each device autonomously determines its charging role based on local conditions, or in a centralized manner, where one device manages charge flow for an entire network.

[0088] Accordingly, FIG. 15 illustrates a system’s ability to dynamically reconfigure charging ports, facilitate multi-device charge transfer, and optimize power distribution through real-time data exchange.

[0089] Skilled persons will appreciate that many changes may be made to the details of the above-described embodiments without departing from the underlying principles of the invention. The scope of the present invention should, therefore, be determined only by claimed inventions and equivalents thereof.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A wireless charging device network system, comprising: a plurality of devices, each device comprising a wireless charging port configured to wirelessly transmit or receive electrical charge; a first device of the plurality of devices, the first device comprising a first wireless charging port and a second wireless charging port, the first wireless charging port configured to wirelessly receive electrical charge from a second device of the plurality of devices, the second wireless charging port configured to wirelessly transmit received or stored electrical charge to a third device of the plurality of devices; and in which the first device comprises circuitry configured to control transfer of electrical charge between the first device and the third device based on one or more predetermined charge preferences.

2. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which the circuitry is third configured to coordinate charge distribution among multiple devices based on charge level, priority settings, and topology of the plurality of devices.

3. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which the plurality of devices are arranged in a stackable configuration, such that the first device is physically aligned between the second device and the third device.

4. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which two or more of the plurality of devices share a common form factor and are arranged in a stacked configuration to form a self-coordinating charging stack.

5. The wireless charging device network system of claim 4, in which the predetermined charge preferences include prioritization of charge transfer based on relative physical positions within the self-coordinating charging stack.

6. The wireless charging device network system of claim 4, in which the first wireless charging port and the second wireless charging port are symmetrically positioned on opposite sides of the first device, such that the first device operates identically irrespective of its orientation within the stacked configuration for inductive power transfer with the second device and the third device.

7. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which the first device dynamically configures the first wireless charging port and the second wireless charging port as a transmitter or receiver based on an amount of charge received and transferred.

8. The wireless charging device network system of claim 7, in which the first device determines whether to transmit or receive electrical charge based on at least one of battery level, power availability, or a presence of the third device in proximity to the second wireless charging port.

9. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which the first device comprises a sensor configured to detect whether an adjacent device is present near the first or second wireless charging port.

10. The wireless charging device network system of claim 9, in which the first device adapts the transfer of electrical charge based on the detected presence of the adjacent device and its charge state.

11. The wireless charging device network system of claim 9, in which the sensor comprises a received communication signal from the adjacent device.

12. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which the first device transmits charge to the third device while simultaneously receiving charge from the second device.

13. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which at least one device of the plurality of devices third comprises a wired charging port for receiving electrical charge from an external power source.

14. The wireless charging device network system of claim 13, in which configurations of the first wireless charging port and the second wireless charging port are reversed in response to a change of which device in the plurality of devices receives electrical charge from an external power source via the wired charging port.

15. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, further comprising one or more wired power interfaces configured to transfer electrical charge between devices of the plurality of devices.

16. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which the first device is configured to pass through at least a portion of the received charge to the third device without first storing the received charge in an internal battery.

17. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which the wireless charging ports comprise wireless charging coils configured to selectively operate as transmitters or receivers.

18. The wireless charging device network system of claim 17, in which the wireless charging coils are dynamically configurable by the circuitry to switch between transmitting and receiving modes.

19. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which the first device is a power pack comprising an internal rechargeable battery configured to store the received electrical charge.

20. The wireless charging device network system of claim 19, in which the power pack further comprises a wired charging receptacle configured to receive electrical power from an external power source.

21. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which the second wireless charging port of the first device is configured to wirelessly transmit electrical charge simultaneously to two or more devices of the plurality of devices that confront the second wireless charging port.

22. The wireless charging device network system of claim 21, in which the circuitry of the first device is configured to dynamically allocate charge among the two or more devices based on charge level, priority settings, or power availability.

23. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which the circuitry is further configured to transmit and receive data regarding charge levels, device status, or device identification between devices of the plurality of devices via the wireless charging ports.

24. The wireless charging device network system of claim 1, in which the plurality of devices includes at least one portable power station comprising a plurality of removable, hot-swappable power packs configured for uninterrupted power delivery.

125. A method for transferring electrical charge in a wireless charging device network system, the wireless charging device network system having a plurality of devices, each device comprising a wireless charging port, the method comprising: receiving, by a first device via its first wireless charging port, electrical charge from a second device; transmitting, by the first device via a second wireless charging port, received or stored electrical charge to a third device; and configuring, by circuitry in the first device, the first and second wireless charging ports as a transmitter or receiver based on a charge transfer condition.

26. The method of claim 25, in which the charge transfer condition comprises at least one of a battery charge level, a priority setting, a device type, or a presence of an adjacent device.

27. The method of claim 25, further comprising detecting, by the first device, a presence of the third device at the second wireless charging port and adjusting charge transfer based on the detected presence.

28. The method of claim 27, in which detecting the presence of the third device comprises receiving a signal from the third device via near-field communication, a wireless protocol, or a physical proximity sensor.

29. The method of claim 25, further comprising configuring the second wireless charging port to wirelessly transmit charge simultaneously to multiple devices.

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising allocating, by the circuitry of the first device, charge among the multiple devices based on predetermined charge preferences.

31. The method of claim 25, wherein the first and second wireless charging ports are symmetrically positioned on opposite sides of the first device, allowing the first device to function identically when flipped.

32. The method of claim 25, wherein the plurality of devices are arranged in a stacked configuration, and the first device is positioned between the second device and the third device.

33. The method of claim 32, further comprising prioritizing charge distribution among the stacked devices based on their physical position in the stack.

34. The method of claim 32, wherein the first device passes through at least a portion of the received charge to the third device without first storing the received charge.

35. The method of claim 25, wherein at least one of the plurality of devices includes a wired power input, and the circuitry is configured to adjust the roles of the wireless charging ports in response to whether the wired power input is supplying charge.

36. The method of claim 25, further comprising transmitting data between the first device, the second device, and the third device regarding charge levels, device status, or device identification via the wireless charging ports.

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