Electronic device and method for detecting connection of electronic device to external object

Abstract

This electronic device may comprise: a memory which stores instructions and which includes one or more storage media; at least one processor including processing circuitry; a resistor; a first switch for connecting the resistor and a voltage source; an inductor; a second switch for connecting the inductor and a ground; and a connection terminal. When executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the instructions can control such that the electronic device operates the first switch so as to supply a voltage to the connection terminal, turns off the first switch after a designated time has elapsed, operates the second switch so as to connect the inductor and the connection terminal, measures a waveform between the inductor and the connection terminal so as to identify whether an attenuated oscillation signal is detected, determines, on the basis that the attenuated oscillation signal is detected and the range of the waveform of the signal is greater than or equal to a designated level, that a rechargeable external electronic device is connected, and turns off the second switch and supplies power to the external electronic device on the basis that the connection of the rechargeable external electronic device is identified.

Description

Method for detecting a connection between an electronic device and an external object of the electronic device

[0001] This document relates to an electronic device and to a method for detecting a connection to an external object and determining whether it is a foreign substance or a rechargeable external electronic device.

[0002] Portable external electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and / or wearable devices, can be placed on an electronic device that transmits power, such as a charging cradle, to charge the battery.

[0003] The electronic device can charge the battery of an external electronic device using power from an internal battery or external power connected via wired or wireless means. Additionally, the electronic device and the external electronic device need to perform data communication with each other to provide efficient charging capabilities. The electronic device may not provide wireless communication capabilities; accordingly, power transmission and data communication may be carried out via a wired transmission line between the electronic device and the external electronic device.

[0004] Electronic devices, such as charging cradles, can detect objects placed on the device to prevent accidents, such as fires, caused by supplying power to foreign objects. For example, if an object placed on the charging cradle is a foreign object, the electronic device, such as the charging cradle, can stop power transmission.

[0005] If the power transmitting antenna included in the electronic device transmitting power (e.g., charging cradle) and the power receiving antenna included in the external electronic device receiving power (e.g., smartphone) are not properly aligned, or if foreign object detection is performed during alignment, the electronic device transmitting power (e.g., charging cradle) may determine the external electronic device receiving power (e.g., smartphone) as a foreign object, and thus power transmission may not occur.

[0006] The electronic device and foreign object detection method of the present disclosure can more accurately detect whether an object placed on an electronic device is a rechargeable electronic device and a foreign object.

[0007] The electronic device may include a memory that stores instructions and includes one or more storage media, at least one processor including processing circuitry, a resistor, a first switch connecting the resistor and a voltage source, an inductor, a second switch connecting the inductor and ground, and a connection terminal. The instructions can be controlled such that, when executed individually or collectively by at least one processor, the electronic device operates a first switch to supply voltage to the connection terminal, turns off the first switch after a specified time, operates a second switch to connect the inductor and the connection terminal, measures the waveform between the inductor and the connection terminal to check if a damped oscillation signal is detected, determines that a chargeable external electronic device is connected based on the detection of a damped oscillation signal and the range of the signal waveform being above a specified level, and turns off the second switch and supplies power to the external electronic device based on the confirmation of the connection of the chargeable external electronic device.

[0008] A DC power supply system may include a first conductor and a second conductor, and a first device that supplies power through the first conductor and the second conductor. A DC power supply system may include a third conductor corresponding to the first conductor, a fourth conductor corresponding to the second conductor, and a battery, and a second device that receives power through the third conductor and the fourth conductor.

[0009] A DC power supply system may include an inductance element included in either a first device or a second device, a capacitance element included in the second device, at least one processor included in either the first device or the second device, a DC power source included in either the first device or the second device for supplying DC power to the capacitance element, and a first switch located between the DC power source and the first conductor or the third conductor, and receiving a first switch opening / closing signal from the at least one processor to open / close the DC power. A DC power supply system may generate a damped oscillation signal for a limited period on a series circuit line section including at least the first conductor and the third conductor after the first conductor and the third conductor are directly or indirectly connected and the second conductor and the fourth conductor are directly or indirectly connected, and after the first switch is opened or closed.

[0010] The electronic device according to this document can detect the connection of an external electronic device by detecting a damped oscillation signal.

[0011] The electronic device according to this document can detect a small resistance component based on the waveform of the attenuated oscillation signal.

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a power transmitting device (charging cradle) and a power receiving device (earbuds) according to various embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 3a illustrates a situation in which an electronic device according to one embodiment is connected to an external electronic device via two terminals.

[0015] FIG. 3b illustrates a situation in which an electronic device according to one embodiment detects an external electronic device.

[0016] FIG. 4 illustrates a configuration for detecting an external electronic device of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 illustrates the configuration of the electronic device when no external electronic device is connected.

[0018] FIG. 6 illustrates a situation in which an electronic device according to one embodiment establishes a communication connection when it detects an external electronic device.

[0019] FIG. 7 illustrates a situation in which an electronic device according to one embodiment detects an external electronic device and supplies power.

[0020] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for detecting a connection to an external object of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for detecting a connection to an external object of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for detecting a connection to an external object of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily practice them. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In relation to the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and brevity.

[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates a power transmitting device (e.g., a charging cradle) and a power receiving device (earbuds) according to various embodiments.

[0025] In this document, the earbud (150) is a device that is worn on a user's ear to output an audio signal, and the charging cradle (100) may be a device for storing the earbud (150) inside and charging the battery of the earbud (150). The charging cradle (100) may be referred to by other terms such as a charging case (or dock, station, base), or power transmission (or supply) device, and the earbud (150) may also be referred to by other terms such as an earpiece, wireless earphone, or in-ear earphone.

[0026] According to one embodiment, ear buds may include a first bud (152) that can be worn on the user's left ear and a second bud (154) that can be worn on the right ear, and the first bud (152) and the second bud (154) may be configured as a set. In this document, when referred to as an ear bud, it may be understood to refer to either the first bud (152) and the second bud (154) of FIG. 1.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the earbud (150) can receive and output an audio signal from an external electronic device (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet PC, or a laptop PC) via short-range wireless communication. Examples of short-range wireless communication between the earbud (150) and the external electronic device include Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct, but are not limited thereto. The earbud (150) may include various hardware configurations (e.g., an antenna, a modem, and a communication circuit) for providing short-range wireless communication. According to one embodiment, one of the two earbuds (152, 154) that operates as a master (e.g., the first earbud (152) or the second earbud (154)) may be connected to an external electronic device via short-range wireless communication, and the master may receive an audio signal from the external electronic device and provide the audio signal to the other one that operates as a slave.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the earbud (150) may include a battery that stores power to be supplied to each component of the earbud (150) (e.g., processor, memory, communication circuit, and audio output circuit). The battery may be a rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium-ion battery). The earbud (150) may charge the battery based on power supplied from the charging cradle (100) when inserted into the charging cradle (100).

[0029] According to one embodiment, the charging cradle (100) may include a battery. According to one embodiment, when the earbud (150) is inserted into the charging cradle (100), if the charging cradle (100) is supplied with external power via wired or wireless connection, the battery of the earbud (150) can be charged through said power, or when the charging cradle (100) is not connected to external power, the battery power of the charging cradle (100) can be supplied to charge the battery of the earbud.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the charging cradle (100) may include a first hole (112) into which a first bird (152) can be inserted and a second hole (114) into which a second bird (154) can be inserted. According to one embodiment, the first hole (112) is formed to correspond to the outer shape of the first bird (152), so that when the first bird (152) is inserted into the first hole (112), the first bird (152) can be seated at a predetermined position in the first hole (112). Additionally, the second hole (114) is formed to correspond to the outer shape of the second bird (154), so that when the second bird (154) is inserted into the second hole (114), the second bird (154) can be seated at a predetermined position in the second hole (114).

[0031] According to one embodiment, the charging cradle (100) includes a connection pin (e.g., a first connection pin (122), or a second connection pin (124)) for electrical connection with a first bird (152) and a second bird (154), and the first bird (152) and the second bird (154) may each include a connection pad (e.g., a first connection pad (172), or a second connection pad (174)) for electrical connection with the charging cradle (100). For example, the first connecting pin (122) of the charging cradle (100) may be positioned within the first hole (112) and may be configured to contact the first connecting pad (172) of the first bird (152) when the first bird (152) is seated in the first hole (112), and the second connecting pin (122) of the charging cradle (100) may be configured to contact the second connecting pad (174) of the second bird (154) when the second bird (154) is seated in the second hole (114) to form an electrical connection.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the connection pin of the charging cradle (100) (e.g., first connection pin (122), or second connection pin (124)) and the connection pad of the earbud (150) (e.g., first connection pad (172), or second connection pad (174)) may include a contact pin structure such as a pogo pin. The pogo pin can physically fix the contact between two pins that are in contact with each other through a vertical spring structure. Accordingly, the electrical connection between the charging cradle (100) and the earbud (150) can be stably maintained even when the charging cradle (100) moves.

[0033] According to one embodiment, a charging cradle (100) and earbuds (150) can perform data communication with each other through an electrical path formed by the connection of a connection pin of the charging cradle (100) (e.g., a first connection pin (122), or a second connection pin (124)) and a connection pad of the earbuds (150) (e.g., a first connection pad (172), or a second connection pad (174)). For example, the charging cradle (100) and earbuds (150) can transmit and receive data related to battery status, charging status, and / or firmware updates, but examples of data communication are not limited thereto.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the charging cradle (100) and earbuds (150) may use multiple channels for data communication. For example, the charging cradle (100) and earbuds (150) may use a 1.2V channel for transmitting and receiving small amounts of data, such as battery status or charging status, and a 1.8V channel for transmitting and receiving large amounts of data at high speeds, such as firmware updates.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the charging cradle (100) and earbuds (150) need to minimize the number of transmission lines for the sake of miniaturization of their structure or simple wiring structure, power efficiency, and / or reliability of communication. For example, the charging cradle (100) and earbuds (150) may be connected by only two lines through a connection pin (e.g., a first connection pin (122), or a second connection pin (124)) and a connection pad (e.g., a first connection pad (172), or a second connection pad (174)), one of which is connected to ground, and may include only one transmission line (or single wire transmission path) to be used for actual power transmission and data communication.

[0036] Hereinafter, various embodiments for implementing multi-channel communication and power transmission using a single transmission line between a first electronic device (e.g., a charging cradle (100)) and a second electronic device (e.g., earbuds (150)) will be described. From the perspective of the first electronic device (100), the second electronic device (150) may be referred to as an external electronic device or a power receiving device. Conversely, from the perspective of the second electronic device (150), the first electronic device (100) may be referred to as an external electronic device or a power supply device.

[0037] In this document, the first electronic device will be described as a charging cradle (100) and the second electronic device as an earbud (150), but the various embodiments of this document are not limited to the charging cradle (100) and the earbud (150). For example, the various embodiments of this document may be applied to electronic devices that are connected to each other via a connection pin (e.g., a contact pin, or a pogo pin) and capable of performing power transmission and data communication with each other.

[0038] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 2, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a processor (210), a charging circuit (230), a recognition circuit (240), a switching circuit (260), a recognition circuit (250), and a connection pin (220). For example, the electronic device (200) may be a charging cradle (e.g., the charging cradle (100) of FIG. 1) capable of accommodating earbuds (e.g., the earbuds (150) of FIG. 1), but is not limited thereto.

[0040] According to one embodiment, a connection pin (220) (e.g., a first connection pin (122), or a second connection pin (124)) may serve as a contact point for an electrical connection between an external electronic device (e.g., the earbud (150) of FIG. 1) and the external electronic device. For example, when the external electronic device is inserted into the electronic device (200), the connection pin (220) and the connection pad of the external electronic device (e.g., a first connection pad (172), or a second connection pad (174)) may come into physical contact and be electrically connected. The connection pin (220) may be a pogo pin, but is not limited thereto. The connection pin (220) may include two terminals, one of which may be connected to ground and the other to a transmission line (290) used for data communication and power transmission. In this document, the connection pin (220) of the electronic device (200) and the connection pad of the external electronic device (or the second electronic device) may be referred to as a connection terminal.

[0041] According to one embodiment, when an external electronic device is connected to a connection pin (220), the electronic device (200) and the external electronic device may be electrically connected through a transmission line (290). For example, an electrical node connected to a connection pad of the external electronic device through a switching circuit (260) and a connection pin (220) may be included in the transmission line (290).

[0042] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can perform the function of controlling the configuration of the electronic device (200). For example, the processor (210) can perform various control operations related to recognizing the connection of an external electronic device through the connection pin (220), recognizing the intervention of foreign substances, recognizing the ingress of moisture, and power transmission and / or data communication to the external electronic device. According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can be implemented as a micro controller unit (MCU). The operation of the processor (210) described below can be performed by executing instructions stored in the memory (205) of the MCU.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include one or more memories (205). For example, the memory (205) may include main memory and / or storage. The main memory may include volatile memory such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), or synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM). Alternatively, the memory (205) may include a large storage device as non-volatile memory. For example, the storage may include at least one of one-time programmable ROM (OTPROM), PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory, hard drive, or solid-state drive (SSD). The memory (205) may store various file data, and the stored file data may be updated according to the operation of the processor (210).

[0044] According to one embodiment, the charging circuit (230) can perform the function of charging the battery of the electronic device (200) and supplying power to the configuration of the electronic device (200) using power input from an external power source. Additionally, the charging circuit (230) can perform the function of transmitting external power or power from the battery to the external electronic device when an external electronic device is connected to the connection pin (220). According to one embodiment, the charging circuit (230) may include a wired charging circuit and / or a wireless charging circuit. Regarding the charging and power supply operation, the wired charging circuit and / or the wireless charging circuit may operate under the control of the processor (210) or include a separate control circuit (not shown).

[0045] According to one embodiment, the switching circuit (260) can connect the transmission line (290) to the processor (210) or the charging circuit (230) under the control of the processor (210). The switching circuit (260) may include a switch (e.g., SPDT (single pole double throw), or MUX (multiplexer)). When an external electronic device is connected, the processor (210) can control the switching circuit (260) to connect the transmission line (290), which includes the charging circuit (230) and the connection pin (220), to the power transmission section, and to connect the processor (210) and the transmission line (290) to the data communication section.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the recognition circuit (240) may be electrically connected to the transmission line (290) and may be configured to output an electrical signal to the transmission line (290) according to a control signal of the processor (210). For example, the processor (210) may control the recognition circuit (240) so that in the first section (or device recognition section), when an external electronic device is connected, the transmission line (290) may include a first impedance characteristic for detecting the connection of an external electronic device, and in the second section (or foreign substance recognition section), the recognition circuit (240) may include a second impedance characteristic for detecting the inflow of a foreign substance (e.g., moisture) in the transmission line (290) when a foreign substance (e.g., moisture) enters.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the recognition circuit (240) may include a variable resistor (or variable impedance). For example, the recognition circuit (240) may include a device recognition circuit for detecting whether an external electronic device is connected and a foreign substance recognition circuit for detecting whether foreign substances (e.g., moisture) have entered.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the recognition circuit (240) may include two or more resistors connected in series or parallel, and may include a switch (or pull-up switch) for turning some of the resistors on / off. The recognition circuit (240) may include a first resistor (or a resistor for device recognition), a pull-up switch capable of turning the first resistor on / off, and a second resistor (or a resistor for moisture recognition) connected in parallel with the first resistor and the pull-up switch. The second resistor may have a resistance value sufficiently higher than that of the first resistor. Accordingly, when the pull-up switch is closed, most of the current from the input power flows through the first resistor to the transmission line (290), and when the pull-up switch is open, since the first resistor is in the off state, current can flow from the input power through the second resistor to the transmission line (290).

[0049] According to one embodiment, the recognition circuit (240) may include a current source capable of outputting a specific current to the transmission line (290) through the switching circuit (260). In this case, the processor (210) may control the current source so that a current of a specific value is output to the transmission line (290) according to the operation mode.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the recognition circuit (240) may include a circuit for detecting voltage and / or current flowing through the transmission line (290). According to another example, the processor (210) may include a detection circuit to detect voltage and / or current flowing through the transmission line (290). For example, voltage and / or current flowing through the transmission line (290) may be detected using at least one port (e.g., a pin, or a pad) of the processor (210) that includes the detection circuit.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the recognition circuit (250) may be connected in parallel with the transmission line (290). The recognition circuit (250) may include two or more resistors connected in series or parallel, and may include a switch (or pull-down switch) for turning some of the resistors on or off. When the device recognition operation of an external electronic device connected through the connection pin (220) is performed, the processor (210) may control the recognition circuit (250) to control the formation of a specific voltage value on the transmission line (290).

[0052] According to one embodiment, the recognition circuit (250) can receive power from an external electronic device when the external electronic device is connected to the connection pin (220). Accordingly, even when the battery of the electronic device (200) is discharged, the recognition circuit (250) can be controlled, and the external electronic device can recognize the connection with the electronic device (200).

[0053] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can perform device recognition operations and foreign object recognition operations when no external electronic device is connected to the connection pin (220). The processor (210) controls the recognition circuit (240) to output an electrical signal corresponding to an operation mode (e.g., device recognition mode, or foreign object recognition mode) to the transmission line (290), checks the voltage value formed on the transmission line (290) while the electrical signal is being output, and checks the state of the connection pin (220) based on whether the checked voltage value corresponds to a specific voltage value.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can check the voltage value formed on the transmission line (290) while the first electrical signal is output to the transmission line (290). When no external electronic device is connected to the connection pin (220), the connection pin (220) is in an open state, so no voltage drop occurs, and the voltage value of the transmission path can be substantially the same as the voltage value of the input power. Additionally, when an external electronic device is connected to the connection pin (220), the voltage distributed by the recognition circuit (240) of the electronic device (200) and the circuit to be recognized of the external electronic device can be formed on the transmission line (290).

[0055] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can determine whether an external electronic device is connected to the connection pin (220) based on a verified voltage value. For example, the processor (210) can determine that the external electronic device is not connected if the verified voltage value is substantially the same as (or within a predetermined range of) a determined voltage value (e.g., the voltage value of the input power Vdd, 1.8V).

[0056] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can determine the channel to be used for data communication with an external electronic device. For example, the electronic device (200) and the external electronic device may use multiple channels for data communication, and the 1.2V channel may be used for transmitting and receiving small amounts of data, such as battery status or charge status, and the 1.8V channel may be used for transmitting and receiving large amounts of data at high speed, such as firmware updates.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can control the recognition circuit (240) so that a voltage corresponding to a determined channel is formed on the transmission line (290). For example, the processor (210) can control the current value of the current source of the recognition circuit (240) or the resistance value of resistors connected in a series-parallel structure to a value corresponding to the determined channel. When an external electronic device operates the circuit to be recognized (250), a specific voltage value may be formed on the transmission line (290), and the external electronic device can check the voltage value formed on the transmission line (290) to determine the currently set channel.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a Mux for switching between multiple communication channels and transmission paths.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) and the external electronic device can perform data communication using a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART) method, but the communication method is not limited thereto.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can schedule power transmission and data communication through the transmission line (290). For example, the processor (210) can schedule in the order of the electronic device (200) data transmission section - switching section - electronic device (200) data transmission section - switching section - power transmission section. The electronic device (200) and the external electronic device can each sequentially transmit data a predetermined number of times and then perform power transmission through the transmission line (290), and the number of transmission sections, time length, and / or packet size of each device can be determined according to the size of the data to be transmitted by each device.

[0061] Generally, voltage is applied to the connection point of a transmitting or receiving device, and the impedance is compared between the case where the two devices are not connected and the case where they are connected to determine whether contact has occurred. In the comparative embodiment, the DC voltage remains almost constant when the two terminals are not in contact, and when they are in contact, if the two resistances (R values) are the same, the DC voltage is measured at half the level. This allows for the detection of device connection and has the advantage of enabling device identification with a simple circuit configuration.

[0062] However, these comparative examples have several problems.

[0063] First, if a foreign substance causes a resistance component that is relatively small compared to the resistance value during connection, the detected voltage will be almost the same as when the substance is absent, which may reduce the accuracy of detection. Considering the measurement error and resolution of the sensing circuit, this poses a problem that prevents the effective detection of foreign substances.

[0064] In addition, when transmitting power through a device connected via two terminals, foreign substances can cause reduced efficiency and heat generation problems. For example, if 1A flows through the connection line, the power lost through a 1-ohm resistor amounts to 1W. In such situations, particularly in the case of a wet terminal, the added parallel resistance makes voltage measurement difficult and can accelerate oxidation of the terminal during power transmission and reception.

[0065] Comparative embodiments use a method of measuring impedance through a combination of resistors, but there are limitations in accurately measuring small series resistance or large parallel resistance. The electronic device (200) according to the present document presents a new resistance detection method and circuit structure to solve the problems of comparative embodiments. The new resistance detection method and circuit structure will be described in FIGS. 3a through 10.

[0066] FIG. 3a illustrates a situation in which an electronic device according to one embodiment is connected to an external electronic device via two terminals.

[0067] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) may include a first switch (301), a second switch (302), a first DC / DC converter (304), a first battery (306), a low dropout regulator (LDO) (308), a comparator (310), an analog to digital converter (ADC) (312), a first resistor (315), a first connection pin (331), and a third connection pin (333). An external object connected to the electronic device (200) may include, for example, a foreign object or an external electronic device (e.g., the earbuds (150) of FIG. 1). The external object may be classified as an object that is electrically connected to the electronic device (200) and can be charged, or as an object that cannot be charged, such as a foreign object. The types of external electronic devices are not limited to earbuds (150), and may include all electronic devices that are connected to each other via connection pins (e.g., contact pins, or pogo pins) and can perform power transmission and data communication with each other.

[0068] The first DC / DC converter (304) can be used to increase the input voltage and output it. A Low Dropout Regulator (LDO) (308) can be used to remove noise and supply a stable voltage. The first DC / DC converter (304) can be a buck, boost, or buck-boost circuit. The first DC / DC converter (304) can operate in buck, boost, or buck-boost modes, for example, depending on the power supply level. A comparator (310) can be used to compare two input signals and output a result. The electronic device (200) can set a threshold in the comparator (310) to generate a signal when a specific condition (e.g., 0V) is satisfied. An analog to digital converter (ADC) (312) can be used to convert an analog signal into a digital signal. A first DC / DC converter (304) may be included between the first battery (306) and the third switch (303). A second DC / DC converter (322) may be included between the second battery (320) and the second connection pin (332). The waveform supplied from the electronic device (200) can be seen in Figure 350.

[0069] For example, the external electronic device may include a second battery (320), a second connecting pin (332), a capacitor (319) and / or a fourth connecting pin (334).

[0070] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can operate the first switch (301) to supply power to the first connection pin (331). The electronic device (200) can periodically operate the first switch (301) at regular intervals. The electronic device (200) can operate the first switch (301) and supply power for a specified time (e.g., 1 minute). For example, the first connection pin (331) and the second connection pin (332) may represent (+) terminals, and the third connection pin (333) and the fourth connection pin (334) may represent (-) terminals. The electronic device (200) and an external electronic device may be electrically connected by connection terminals. For example, the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) may include transistors, but the type of switch is not limited to this.

[0071] FIG. 3b illustrates a situation in which an electronic device according to one embodiment detects an external electronic device.

[0072] In FIG. 3a, the electronic device (200) can operate the first switch (301) and supply power for a specified time (e.g., 1 minute). In FIG. 3b, the electronic device (200) can turn off the first switch (301) and operate the second switch (302). The second switch (302) can be connected to an inductor (317) and ground. The electronic device (200) can establish a connection state with the inductor (317), the first connection pin (331), and an external object. If the external object is a rechargeable external electronic device (e.g., earbuds (150) in FIG. 1) containing a capacitor, the inductor (317) of the electronic device (220), the internal resistance near the first connection pin (331), and the capacitor (319) of the external electronic device (150) can form an RLC circuit.

[0073] A series circuit line section is formed in which an inductance element (317), a first connecting pin (first conductor), a second connecting pin (third conductor), and a capacitance element (319) are connected in series. Although FIG. 3b shows the inductance element (317) configured within the electronic device (200), this is merely one embodiment, and the inductance element (317) may be placed on the side of an external electronic device. For example, in FIG. 3b, it may be placed on the line connecting the contact point where the second DC / DC converter and the capacitor (319) are connected and the second connecting pin (332), and accordingly, a series circuit line section in which the first connecting pin (first conductor), the second connecting pin (third conductor), the inductance element (317), and the capacitance element (319) are connected in series may be formed. Referring to FIG. 3b, the second switch (302) is connected in series with the series circuit line section in which the inductance element (317), the first connecting pin (first conductor), the second connecting pin (third conductor), and the capacitance element (319) are connected in series, but is not limited thereto. The second switch (302) may be placed at any point on the series circuit line section so that a damped oscillation circuit can be generated by closing (ON) the second switch (302) after or simultaneously with the point in time when the first switch (301) is opened (OFF). Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 3b, the first switch (301) is placed on a line branched from a point on the line where the inductance element (317) and the first connecting pin (first conductor) are connected, on a series circuit line section where the inductance element (317), the first connecting pin (first conductor), the second connecting pin (third conductor), and the capacitance element (319) are connected in series.

[0074] The electronic device (200) can measure the signal waveform using an ADC (312). The electronic device (200) can check whether a damped oscillation signal is detected. A damped oscillation signal may refer to a signal in which the amplitude gradually decreases among periodically repeating signals. In an RLC circuit, an inductor (L) (317) and a capacitor (C) (319) can generate a vibration waveform by exchanging electrical energy. In this process, as the electrical energy decreases due to the resistance (R) component within the RLC circuit, the amplitude of the vibration waveform may also gradually decrease. The amplitude of the vibration waveform can be seen in Figure 360. Therefore, the electronic device (200) can detect a damped oscillation signal in which the amplitude gradually decreases when an RLC circuit is formed.

[0075] FIG. 3c illustrates a situation in which an electronic device according to another embodiment detects an external electronic device. Compared to FIG. 3b, the structure is the same in that one end of the inductance element (318) is connected to the first connection pin (331), but the other end of the inductance element (318) is not connected to ground via the second switch (302), but is connected in series with the first switch (301) (via resistor 315), and the second switch (302) of FIG. 3b is excluded. Although the circuit structure is slightly different from FIG. 3b, a series circuit line section can be formed in which the inductance element (318), the first connection pin (first conductor) (331), the second connection pin (third conductor) (332), and the capacitance element (319) are connected in series. At this time, the first switch (301) is connected in series with the aforementioned series circuit line section.

[0076] In addition, in this case, unlike the case of FIG. 3b, a damped oscillation signal is generated as the first switch (301) is closed. While in the circuit of FIG. 3b, a damped oscillation circuit is generated during the process of discharging after charging the capacitor element (319), in the circuit of FIG. 3c, a damped oscillation circuit is generated during the process of charging the capacitor element (319) after the first switch (301) is closed (ON). Accordingly, unlike the damped oscillation signal converging to 0 in the circuit of FIG. 3b, it can converge to the VDD value in the circuit of FIG. 3c. The damped waveform graph (361) of FIG. 3c can converge to the VDD value.

[0077] According to one embodiment, a first DC / DC converter (304) may be included between the first battery (306) and the third switch (303). A second DC / DC converter (322) may be included between the second battery (320) and the second connecting pin (332).

[0078] According to one embodiment, if the attenuation oscillation signal is not detected, the electronic device (200) determines that the external electronic device is not connected or is a foreign substance and may not supply power to the external object. Based on the detection of the attenuation oscillation signal, the electronic device (200) can determine the peak value of the amplitude of the waveform and determine the attenuation rate. For example, the electronic device (200) can measure the attenuation rate of the attenuation oscillation signal using an envelope detector circuit.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can check the attenuation rate of the attenuation oscillation signal when a set external electronic device (e.g., earbuds (150) of FIG. 1) is connected. The electronic device (200) can determine whether the external object is a foreign substance or a pre-set external electronic device (e.g., earbuds (150) of FIG. 1) by comparing the set attenuation rate with the measured attenuation rate of the attenuation oscillation signal. If the attenuation oscillation signal is not detected, the electronic device (200) can determine that the external object is a foreign substance.

[0080] Alternatively, even if a damped oscillation signal is measured, a damped rate having a value different from the preset damped rate may be measured. In this case, it can be determined that foreign matter has intervened between the first connecting pin (331, i.e., the first conductor) and the second connecting pin (332, i.e., the third conductor) connecting the electronic device (200) and the external electronic device, or between the third connecting pin (333, i.e., the second conductor) and the fourth connecting pin (334, i.e., the fourth conductor). As a result of foreign matter intervening between the connecting pins in this manner, a series resistance component is added on the aforementioned series circuit line section, and accordingly, a damped oscillation signal having a damped rate greater than the preset damped rate may be formed. Accordingly, the electronic device (200) may determine that foreign matter has intervened between the connecting pins based on the fact that the damped oscillation signal is detected but the damped rate is greater than the specified level. The electronic device (200)) can determine that foreign matter has intervened between the connecting pins if a damped oscillation signal is detected but the magnitude of the signal is smaller than a specified level.

[0081] Although embodiments having different circuit structures have been described above through FIGS. 3b and 3c, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the circuit itself presented in the drawings. The concept of the present invention lies in the fact that an RLC series circuit capable of generating an attenuated oscillation signal by contact between conductor terminals is configured, and that a waveform of a series attenuated signal generated by switch operation on the configured attenuated oscillation signal generating circuit and a DC power supply is analyzed to determine whether foreign matter is involved between the conductor terminals. Therefore, even if it differs in some parts from the circuits of FIGS. 3b and 3c, it should be considered to fall within the concept of the present invention as described above.

[0082] FIG. 4 illustrates a configuration for detecting an external electronic device of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0083] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) may include a first circuit (410) for supplying power to an external object and a second circuit (420) for determining the type of the external object. The first circuit (410) may include a first resistor (415) (e.g., the first resistor (315) of FIG. 3a) and a first switch (412) (e.g., the first switch (301) of FIG. 3a). The second circuit (420) may include an inductor (427) (e.g., the inductor (317) of FIG. 3b) and a second switch (422) (e.g., the second switch (302) of FIG. 3b).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can supply power to the first connection pin (402) and the third connection pin (404) using the first circuit (410). The electronic device (200) can supply power to the first connection pin (402) and the third connection pin (404) at set intervals to check the presence and type of the external object when it is difficult to determine whether the external object is connected. If the external object is a device capable of supplying power, the external object can receive power from the electronic device (200) through the second connection pin (412) and the fourth connection pin (414). The electronic device (200) can supply power for a period of time during which the capacitor of the external object can be charged in order to determine whether the external object is a device capable of supplying power. For example, if the external object is connected and the external object contains a capacitor, the capacitor can be charged. For example, if an external object is connected but the external object does not contain a capacitor, power supplied from the electronic device (200) may not be accumulated.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can use the second circuit (420) to determine whether the device is capable of supplying power and whether it contains foreign matter. The electronic device (200) can create an RLC circuit using an inductor (427) in the second circuit (420), a resistance of the electronic device (200) and / or an external object (e.g., internal resistance near the first connection pin (402)) and a capacitor (C) (432) of the external object. If the external object does not contain a capacitor, an RLC circuit is not formed, so the electronic device (200) may have difficulty measuring the attenuated oscillation signal. The electronic device (200) can determine that the external object does not contain a capacitor (432) based on the fact that the attenuated oscillation signal is not measured. The electronic device (200) can determine that the external object is a foreign matter incapable of supplying power based on the fact that the attenuated oscillation signal is not measured.

[0086] Figure 5 illustrates the configuration of the electronic device when no external electronic device is connected.

[0087] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) may include a transmitting circuit (501), a receiving circuit (503), a comparator (505), an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) (507), a first switch (508), a resistor (509), and a battery (510). The electronic device (200) may supply power to a connection terminal (e.g., a first connection pin (531), a third connection pin (533)) at specified intervals to check whether an external object is connected. The first connection pin (531) and the resistor (509) may be electrically connected by a third switch (541). A DC / DC converter (512) may be included between the battery (510) and the third switch (541). The electronic device (200) can supply power for a period of time during which the capacitor of an external object (e.g., the capacitor (319) in FIG. 3a) can be charged to determine whether the external object is a device capable of supplying power. The external object may include, for example, the earbud (150) in FIG. 1. If the external object contains the capacitor (319), the capacitor (319) can be charged. However, if the external object does not contain the capacitor (319), all power supplied from the electronic device (200) will be discharged.

[0088] According to one embodiment, if the external object does not include a capacitor (319), an RLC circuit is not formed, so the electronic device (200) may find it difficult to measure the attenuated oscillation signal. The electronic device (200) may determine that the external object does not include a capacitor (319) based on the fact that the attenuated oscillation signal is not measured. The electronic device (200) may determine that the external object is unable to supply power based on the fact that the attenuated oscillation signal is not measured.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can determine attenuation characteristics based on the measurement of an attenuation oscillation signal. The attenuation characteristics may include the number of detections of a waveform exceeding a specified voltage and the attenuation rate. The electronic device (200) can use a comparator (505) to set a specified voltage (e.g., 0.2V) as a trigger and count how many times the signal output has changed. The electronic device (200) can determine that an attenuation oscillation signal is being measured if the count is within a set range (e.g., 10 times) and determine that the external object is an external electronic device capable of supplying power (e.g., the earbuds (150) of FIG. 1). For example, the count may vary depending on the setting. The type of external electronic device is not limited to the earbuds (150), but may include all electronic devices that are connected to each other via a connection pin (e.g., a contact pin, or a pogo pin) and capable of performing power transmission and data communication with each other.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may determine that it is not a device capable of power transmission if the average of the waveform measured by the ADC (507) is below a certain value. The electronic device (200) may establish a communication connection and start charging or maintain a standby state based on the type of external object. A standby state may mean a state in which the electronic device (200) supplies power to the connection terminal at regular intervals, as described in FIGS. 3a and FIGS. 4.

[0091] FIG. 6 illustrates a situation in which an electronic device according to one embodiment establishes a communication connection when it detects an external electronic device.

[0092] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) can detect an external electronic device based on the characteristic value of a damped oscillation signal. The electronic device (200) can establish a communication connection based on the detection of an external electronic device capable of supplying power.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can operate a third switch (641) based on the detection of an external electronic device capable of supplying power, thereby controlling the first transmitting circuit (601) and the first receiving circuit (603) to be connected to the first connecting pin (631). The external electronic device can operate a fourth switch (643) based on being connected to the first connecting pin (631) and the third connecting pin (633) of the electronic device (200). The external electronic device can operate a second switch (643) to control the second transmitting circuit (611) and the second receiving circuit (613) to be connected to the second connecting pin (643).

[0094] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can transmit data to the second receiving circuit (613) of the external electronic device using the first transmitting circuit (601). Additionally, the electronic device (200) can receive data to the second transmitting circuit (611) of the external electronic device using the first receiving circuit (603). The data may include information regarding the type of the electronic device (200), the type of the external electronic device, the voltage of the second battery (620) included in the external electronic device, the charging current of the second battery (620), the voltage detected at the connection terminals (e.g., the first connecting pin (631), the second connecting pin (632), the third connecting pin (633), and the fourth connecting pin (634)), the temperature, the charging time, and / or the current charging status of the battery of the external electronic device. For example, the data transmission line may utilize a power supply line or may be formed separately from the power supply line. Meanwhile, when the data transmission line uses a power supply line, a part of the data transmission line overlaps with a part of the aforementioned serial circuit line section, and the overlapping part of the serial circuit line section includes a first connecting pin (631, first conductor) and a second connecting pin (632, third conductor), but may not include the inductance element (317) and capacitance element (319) mentioned in FIGS. 3a to 3c.

[0095] FIG. 7 illustrates a situation in which an electronic device according to one embodiment detects an external electronic device and supplies power.

[0096] In FIG. 7, an electronic device according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) may include a first transmitting circuit (701), a first receiving circuit (703), a first comparator (705), a first ADC (707), a first battery (710), a first connecting pin (731) and / or a third connecting pin (733). For example, an external electronic device (e.g., earbuds (150) of FIG. 1) may include a second transmitting circuit (711), a second receiving circuit (713), a second comparator (715), a second ADC (717), a second battery (720), a second connecting pin (732) and / or a fourth connecting pin (734). A first DC / DC converter (712) may be included between the first battery (710) and the first switch (741). A second DC / DC converter (722) may be included between the second battery (720) and the second switch (743).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can determine whether the second battery (720) of the external electronic device needs to be charged based on received data. If the second battery (720) needs to be charged, the electronic device (200) can terminate communication and supply power to the second battery (720) using the first battery (710). In this process, the electronic device (200) can transmit a signal requesting that the connection terminal and the second battery (720) be connected within the external electronic device (150). The electronic device (200) can control the first switch (741) so that the connection terminal and the first battery (710) are connected. The external electronic device (150) can control the second switch (743) to connect the second connection pin (732) and the second battery (720) based on receiving a signal from the electronic device (200) requesting that the connection terminal and the second battery (720) be connected.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can check whether power is being supplied to the external electronic device (150) using the first comparator (705) and the first ADC (707). The external electronic device can transmit information about the waveform of the measured supply power to the electronic device (200) using the second comparator (715) and the second ADC (717). The electronic device (200) can check whether power is being supplied to the external electronic device based on the waveform of the supply power received from the external electronic device.

[0099] Conversely, an external electronic device (e.g., earbuds (150) of FIG. 1) can measure information about the waveform of the supply power using a second comparator (715) and a second ADC (717). The external electronic device (150) can receive information about the waveform of the supply power measured using the first comparator (705) and the first ADC (707) of the electronic device (101).

[0100] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for detecting a connection to an external object of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0101] The operations described through FIG. 8 may be implemented based on instructions that can be stored in a computer recording medium or memory (e.g., memory (205) of FIG. 2). The illustrated method (800) may be executed by an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) described above through FIG. 1 to 7, and the technical features described above will be omitted below. The order of each operation in FIG. 8 may be changed, some operations may be omitted, and some operations may be performed simultaneously.

[0102] In operation 810, the electronic device (200) can supply voltage by operating a first switch (e.g., the first switch (301) in FIG. 3a) based on an external object being connected to a connection terminal. The external object may be an external electronic device capable of supplying power (e.g., earbuds (150) in FIG. 1) or foreign matter such as dust or moisture. The external object may be an external electronic device having capacitor (C) characteristics.

[0103] In operation 820, the electronic device (200) can turn off the first switch (301) and operate the second switch (e.g., the second switch (302) in FIG. 3a) to connect the inductor (e.g., the inductor (317) in FIG. 3b) and the connection terminal (e.g., the first connection pin (331) in FIG. 3b). The inductor (317) can store energy in the form of a magnetic field. When current flows through the inductor (317), a magnetic field is formed, and the magnetic field can induce a voltage in the inductor (317) to hinder the change in current.

[0104] In operation 830, the electronic device (200) can measure the waveform between the inductor (317) and the connection terminal to determine whether a damped oscillation signal is detected. A damped oscillation signal may refer to a signal in which the amplitude gradually decreases among periodically repeating signals. In an RLC circuit, the inductor (L) and the capacitor (C) can generate an oscillating waveform by exchanging electrical energy. In this process, as the electrical energy decreases due to the resistance (R) component within the RLC circuit, the amplitude of the oscillating waveform may also gradually decrease. Therefore, the electronic device (200) can detect a damped oscillation signal in which the amplitude gradually decreases when an RLC circuit is formed.

[0105] In operation 840, the electronic device (200) can determine whether the external object is a rechargeable external electronic device (e.g., earbuds (150) of FIG. 1) and whether it contains foreign matter.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may operate the first switch (301) to supply voltage to the connection terminal (331), turn off the first switch (301) after a specified time has elapsed, and operate the second switch (302) to connect the inductor (317) and the connection terminal (331). The electronic device (200) may measure the waveform between the inductor (317) and the connection terminal (331) to check whether a damped oscillation signal is detected, and determine that a chargeable external electronic device is connected based on the fact that a damped oscillation signal is detected and the range of the signal waveform is above a specified level. Based on the confirmation that the connection of a chargeable external electronic device is confirmed, the electronic device (200) may turn off the second switch and supply power to the external electronic device.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can determine the attenuation rate of an attenuated oscillation signal using an envelope detector circuit and determine whether the range of the signal waveform satisfies a specified level using the determined attenuation rate of the attenuated oscillation signal.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can determine whether an external object is a pre-set external electronic device by comparing a set attenuation rate with the attenuation rate of a measured attenuation oscillation signal, and whether it contains foreign matter.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can determine that a foreign substance is connected based on the detection of a damped oscillation signal and the range of the signal waveform being less than a specified level.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can measure the waveform of the attenuated oscillation signal using an analog to digital converter (ADC) for a time of at least twice the period of the attenuated oscillation signal, and determine the attenuation rate based on the measured waveform.

[0111] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for detecting a connection to an external object of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0112] The operations described through FIG. 9 may be implemented based on instructions that can be stored in a computer recording medium or memory (e.g., memory (205) of FIG. 2). The illustrated method (900) may be executed by an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) described above through FIG. 1 to 7, and the technical features described above will be omitted below. The order of each operation in FIG. 9 may be changed, some operations may be omitted, and some operations may be performed simultaneously.

[0113] In operation 902, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may, under the control of a processor (e.g., processor (210) of FIG. 2), operate a first switch (e.g., first switch (301) of FIG. 3a) to supply power to a connection terminal (e.g., first connection pin (331) of FIG. 3b) when an external object is connected. Alternatively, the electronic device (200) may supply power to the connection terminal for detecting an external object at regular intervals.

[0114] In operation 904, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may operate a second switch (e.g., the second switch (302) of FIG. 3b) after a certain time following power supply and measure a signal. The electronic device (200) may measure a signal waveform using an ADC (e.g., the ADC (312) of FIG. 3a). The electronic device (200) may supply power for a set time after pre-setting a time for the capacitor to be charged. Afterward, the electronic device (200) may measure a waveform after waiting for the discharge of a connected external object.

[0115] In operation 910, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment can check whether a damped oscillation signal is detected. A damped oscillation signal may refer to a signal in which the amplitude gradually decreases among periodically repeating signals. In an RLC circuit, an inductor (L) (e.g., inductor (317) in FIG. 3a) and a capacitor (C) (e.g., capacitor (319) in FIG. 3a)) can generate an oscillating waveform while exchanging electrical energy. In this process, as the electrical energy decreases due to the resistance (R) component (e.g., resistance (315) in FIG. 3a) within the RLC circuit, the amplitude of the oscillating waveform may also gradually decrease. Thus, the electronic device (200) can detect a damped oscillation signal in which the amplitude gradually decreases when an RLC circuit is formed.

[0116] In operation 912, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may determine an external object as a chargeable device and start charging based on the detection of a damped oscillation signal. A chargeable device may mean a power receiving device capable of receiving a power supply. A power receiving device may include, for example, the earbud (150) of FIG. 1. However, various embodiments of this document are not limited to earbuds (150). For example, various embodiments of this document may be applied to electronic devices that are connected to each other via connecting pins (e.g., contact pins, or pogo pins) and capable of performing power transmission and data communication with each other.

[0117] In operation 914, the electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may determine that an external object cannot be charged based on the fact that no attenuated oscillation signal is detected, and may maintain a standby state. The standby state may mean a state in which power is supplied to a connection terminal at regular intervals by the electronic device (200) as described in FIG. 3a and FIG. 4.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) checks whether a voltage having a voltage magnitude higher than a threshold is detected between an inductor (e.g., inductor (317) of FIG. 3a) and a connection terminal (e.g., first connection pin (331) of FIG. 3a), and can determine that a rechargeable external electronic device (e.g., earbud (150) of FIG. 1) is connected based on the number of times a voltage greater than the threshold is detected exceeding a specified number.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) checks whether a voltage having a voltage magnitude higher than a threshold is detected between the inductor (317) and the connection terminal (331), and can determine that foreign matter is connected based on the fact that the number of times a voltage greater than the threshold is detected is less than a specified number.

[0120] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for detecting a connection to an external object of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0121] The operations described through FIG. 10 may be implemented based on instructions that can be stored in a computer recording medium or memory (e.g., memory (205) of FIG. 2). The illustrated method (1000) may be executed by an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) described above through FIG. 1 to 7, and the technical features described above will be omitted below. The order of each operation in FIG. 10 may be changed, some operations may be omitted, and some operations may be performed simultaneously.

[0122] In operation 1002, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may, under the control of a processor (e.g., processor (210) of FIG. 2), operate a first switch (e.g., first switch (301) of FIG. 3a) to supply power to a connection terminal (e.g., first connection pin (331) of FIG. 3b) when an external object is connected. Alternatively, the electronic device (200) may supply power to the connection terminal at regular intervals to detect an external object.

[0123] In operation 1004, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may operate a second switch (e.g., the second switch (302) of FIG. 3b) after a certain time after power supply and measure a signal. The electronic device (200) may measure a signal waveform using an ADC (e.g., the ADC (312) of FIG. 3a).

[0124] In operation 1010, the electronic device (200) according to one embodiment can check whether a damped oscillation signal is detected.

[0125] In operation 1012, the electronic device (200) according to one embodiment determines that an external electronic device capable of receiving power is connected based on the detection of a damped oscillation signal and can establish a communication connection with the external electronic device.

[0126] In operation 1024, the electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may determine that no external electronic device capable of receiving power is connected based on the fact that no attenuated oscillation signal is detected and maintain a standby state. The standby state may mean a state in which power is supplied to the connection terminal at regular intervals by the electronic device (200) as described in FIG. 3a and FIG. 4.

[0127] In operation 1020, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment can determine whether an external electronic device needs to be charged. The electronic device (200) can determine whether the battery of the external electronic device (e.g., the second battery (720) of FIG. 7) needs to be charged based on data received from the external electronic device. Charging may mean power or the act of supplying power.

[0128] In operation 1022, the electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may operate a switch based on the determination that the external electronic device needs to be charged and supply power to the second battery (720) of the external electronic device using the first battery (e.g., the first battery (710) of FIG. 7).

[0129] In operation 1024, the electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may remain in a standby state based on the fact that charging of an external electronic device is not required.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can turn off a second switch (e.g., the second switch (302) in FIG. 3a) based on the determination that a rechargeable external electronic device is connected, and connect the connection terminal to the transmitter (Tx) of a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART) to establish a communication connection with the external electronic device and transmit data. The universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART) may include a transmitter (Tx) and a receiver (Rx). The UART may use a method of transmitting data sequentially one bit at a time asynchronously.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the first switch (301) and the second switch (302) may include GPIO (general purpose input / output).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (220) may include either a contact pin or a pogo pin.

[0133] According to one embodiment, a DC power supply system may include a first conductor (e.g., the first connecting pin (331) of FIG. 3a) and a second conductor (e.g., the third connecting pin (333) of FIG. 3a), a first device (e.g., the first device (100) of FIG. 1) that supplies power through the first conductor and the second conductor, a third conductor (e.g., the second connecting pin (332) of FIG. 3a) corresponding to the first conductor, a fourth conductor (e.g., the fourth connecting pin (334) of FIG. 3a) corresponding to the second conductor, and a battery, and may include a second device (e.g., the second device (150) of FIG. 1) that receives power through the third conductor and the fourth conductor. It may include an inductance element (e.g., inductor (317) of FIG. 3A) included in either the first device (100) or the second device (150), a capacitance element (e.g., capacitor (319) of FIG. 3A) included in the second device, at least one processor (e.g., processor (210) of FIG. 2) included in either the first device or the second device, a DC power source included in either the first device or the second device that supplies DC power to the capacitance element, and a first switch (e.g., first switch (301) of FIG. 3A) located between the DC power source and the first conductor or the third conductor, which opens or closes the DC power by receiving a first switch opening / closing signal from the at least one processor. The first conductor and the third conductor are connected directly or indirectly, and after the second conductor and the fourth conductor are connected directly or indirectly, and at the time when the first switch (301) is opened or closed Subsequently, attenuated oscillation signals can be generated for a limited period on a series circuit line section including at least the first conductor and the third conductor.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the first conductor (331) and the third conductor (332) are directly or indirectly connected so that the first conductor (331), the third conductor (332), the inductance element (317), and the capacitance element (319) are connected in series, and the series circuit line section may form part of a loop circuit that generates the attenuated oscillation signal in the series circuit line section after the first switch (301) is opened or closed.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the attenuated oscillation signal generated after the first switch is opened is the first attenuated oscillation signal, and the first device (100) further includes a second switch (302) connected in series with the circuit series section on the series circuit line section, and the DC power supply and the first switch (301) may be placed on a line branched from a point on the series circuit line section.

[0136] According to one embodiment, the damped oscillation signal generated after the first switch (301) is closed is a second damped oscillation signal, and the DC power supply and the first switch (301) can be connected in series with the serial circuit line section.

[0137] According to one embodiment, at least one of the first device (100) and the second device (150) further includes a damped oscillation signal detection circuit for detecting the damped oscillation signal, and the damped oscillation signal detection circuit can receive a damped oscillation signal having a waveform different from the waveform of a damped oscillation signal generated when no foreign substance is present, when a foreign substance is present between the first conductor (331) and the third conductor (332) or between the second conductor (333) and the fourth conductor (334).

[0138] According to one embodiment, the attenuated oscillation signal detection circuit may include at least one of an analog-to-digital converter, a comparator, and an anvil detector.

[0139] According to one embodiment, after the limited period during which a damped oscillation signal is generated, data transmission and reception are performed through a data communication line between the first device (100) and the second device (105), and a part of the data communication line overlaps with a part of the serial circuit line section, and the part of the overlapping serial circuit line section may include the first conductor (331) and the third conductor (332), but may not include the inductance element (317) and the capacitance element (319).

[0140] The embodiments of this document disclosed in this specification and drawings are merely specific examples presented to facilitate the explanation of the technical content according to the embodiments of this document and to aid in understanding the embodiments of this document, and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this document. Accordingly, the scope of the embodiments of this document should be interpreted to include all modifications or variations derived based on the technical concept of the embodiments of this document, in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. In an electronic device, Memory (205) that stores instructions and includes one or more storage media; A battery (510) including a power / voltage source; It includes at least one processor (210) including a processing circuitry, and Resistance (315); A first switch (301) connecting the above resistor and voltage source; Inductor (317); A second switch (302) connecting the above inductor and ground; and Includes a connection terminal (220), When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device The first switch above is turned on to supply voltage to the connection terminal using the battery, and After a specified time has elapsed, the first switch is turned off, and the second switch is operated to connect the inductor and ground, and When the first switch is turned off and the second switch is turned on, check whether the waveform detected at a specific point between the inductor and the connection terminal corresponds to a damped oscillation signal, and An electronic device that controls the second switch to turn off and supply power to an external electronic device using the battery based on confirmation of a damped oscillation signal.

2. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device Using an envelope detector circuit, check the attenuation rate of the attenuated oscillation signal, and An electronic device that controls whether the range of a signal waveform satisfies a specified level using the attenuation rate of a confirmed attenuated oscillation signal.

3. In Paragraph 2, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device An electronic device that controls determining whether an external object is a pre-set external electronic device and whether it contains foreign matter by comparing the set attenuation rate with the attenuation rate of a measured attenuation oscillation signal.

4. In Paragraph 2, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device An electronic device that detects a damped oscillation signal and controls it to determine that foreign matter is included based on whether the range of the signal waveform is below a specified level.

5. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device Check whether a voltage having a voltage magnitude higher than a threshold is detected between the above inductor and the above connection terminal, and An electronic device that controls determining that a chargeable external electronic device is connected based on the number of times a voltage greater than the above threshold is detected exceeding a specified number.

6. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device Using a comparator, check whether a voltage having a voltage magnitude higher than a threshold is detected between the inductor and the connection terminal, and An electronic device that controls determining that foreign substances are contained based on the fact that the number of times a voltage greater than the above threshold is detected is less than a specified number.

7. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device Based on the determination that a rechargeable external electronic device is connected, the second switch is turned off, and An electronic device that controls the connection terminal and the transmitting end (Tx) of a UART (universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter) to establish a communication connection with the external electronic device and transmit data.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above electronic device It has the form of a charging cradle capable of charging the above external electronic device, It has a structure capable of charging and / or mounting the above external electronic device, and The first switch and the second switch are An electronic device including GPIO (general purpose input / output).

9. In Paragraph 1, The above battery includes a power / voltage source and a linear regulator, and The above connection terminal is An electronic device comprising either a contact pin or a pogo pin.

10. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device The waveform of the attenuated oscillation signal is measured using an ADC (analog to digital converter) for a time period greater than twice the period of the attenuated oscillation signal, and An electronic device that controls the determination of the attenuation rate based on a measured waveform.

11. A computer-readable non-transient storage medium storing one or more programs comprising instructions executable by a processor of an electronic device, Activate the first switch to supply voltage to the connection terminal using the battery, and After a specified time has elapsed, the first switch is turned off, and the second switch is operated to connect the inductor and ground, and When the first switch is turned off and the second switch is turned on, check whether the waveform detected at a specific point between the inductor and the connection terminal corresponds to a damped oscillation signal, and Based on the confirmation of the attenuation oscillation signal, the second switch is turned off and power is supplied to an external electronic device using the battery, and Using an envelope detector circuit, check the attenuation rate of the attenuated oscillation signal, and By comparing the set attenuation rate with the attenuation rate of the measured attenuation oscillation signal, it is determined whether an external object is a pre-set external electronic device and whether foreign matter is included. A computer-readable non-transient storage medium that detects a damped oscillation signal and controls it to determine that it contains foreign matter based on whether the range of the signal waveform is below a specified level.

12. In a DC power supply system, A first device comprising a first conductor and a second conductor, and supplying power through the first conductor and the second conductor; A second device comprising a third conductor corresponding to the first conductor, a fourth conductor corresponding to the second conductor, and a battery, and receiving power through the third conductor and the fourth conductor; An inductance element included in either of the first device and the second device; Capacitance element included in the second device above; At least one processor included in either of the first device and the second device; A DC power supply included in either the first device or the second device for supplying DC power to the capacitance element; and It includes a first switch located between the DC power supply and the first conductor or the third conductor, and which receives a first switch opening / closing signal from the at least one processor to open / close the DC power. A DC power supply system in which a damped oscillation signal is generated for a limited period on a series circuit line section including at least the first conductor and the third conductor, after the first conductor and the third conductor are directly or indirectly connected, and after the second conductor and the fourth conductor are directly or indirectly connected, and after the first switch is opened or closed.

13. In Paragraph 12, By directly or indirectly connecting the first conductor and the third conductor, a series circuit line section is formed in which the first conductor, the third conductor, the inductance element, and the capacitance element are connected in series. A DC power supply system in which the above-mentioned series circuit line section forms part of a loop circuit that generates the attenuated oscillation signal in the above-mentioned series circuit line section after the time when the first switch is opened or closed.

14. In Paragraph 13, The damped oscillation signal generated after the point in time when the first switch is opened is a first damped oscillation signal, and The first device above is, It further includes a second switch connected on the above-mentioned series circuit line section, or in series with the circuit series section, and A DC power supply system in which the above DC power source and the above first switch are positioned on a line branched from a point on the above series circuit line section.

15. In Paragraph 13, The damped oscillation signal generated after the point in time when the first switch is closed is a second damped oscillation signal, and A DC power supply system in which the above DC power source and the above first switch are connected in series with the above series circuit line section.

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