Dual Wireless Charger with Nested Coils for Multi-Protocol Simultaneous Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless chargers for portable devices, such as smart watches and cellular telephones, require separate chargers and adapters due to different wireless charging protocols, leading to increased size and complexity, and potential interference between charging protocols when used simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A dual electronic device wireless charger with an inner and outer charging module, each supporting different protocols like Qi and Apple Watch, is designed to operate in compact and expanded modes, using a Microcontroller Unit (MCU) to manage charging sequences and prevent interference, with a proximity sensor and LED feedback for user guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single wireless charger is designed to support multiple wireless charging protocols, then the charger's versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple charging coils and protocol management mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested charging coil structure where an inner charging coil is positioned within a recess of an outer charging coil. This nesting arrangement allows both Qi and Apple Watch charging protocols to be integrated in a compact form factor, enabling multi-protocol support without proportionally increasing the charger's overall size and structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a movable inner charging coil that can be positioned in different locations within the recess based on detection results. The MCU dynamically adjusts the inner coil's position to optimize charging performance for different device types and protocols, allowing the charger to adapt its configuration rather than requiring fixed separate charging zones for each protocol
2Adaptability or versatility
If spaced apart separate wireless charge coils are used to accommodate different charging protocols, then the charger's versatility is improved, but the charger size increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested charging coil structure where an inner charging coil is positioned within a recess of an outer charging coil. This nesting arrangement allows both Qi and Apple Watch charging protocols to be integrated in a compact form factor, enabling multi-protocol support without proportionally increasing the charger's overall size
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple charging protocols into a single integrated charging surface by combining the outer charging coil (for Qi protocol) and the inner charging coil (for Apple Watch protocol) into one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate chargers and reducing the overall device footprint
3Productivity
If multiple wireless charging protocols operate simultaneously in close proximity, then charging efficiency is improved, but interference between charging protocols occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and separates the control of different charging protocols through a centralized MCU that independently manages each protocol's operation. The MCU detects device presence and determines which protocol to activate, preventing simultaneous operation of conflicting protocols and eliminating interference while maintaining efficient charging when appropriate
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the MCU continuously monitors device presence and charging status, then adjusts protocol activation accordingly. This feedback control ensures that only the appropriate protocol operates at any given time, preventing interference while maximizing charging efficiency based on actual device needs
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables compact, single-charger solutions for multiple devices with different protocols, allowing simultaneous charging without interference, using a single power source and providing user-friendly visual feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a proximity sensor and LED feedback for user guidance
Implementation Method 2
Wireless magnetic inductive charging technologies enable recharging of suitably configured electronics devices
Data Source
AI summary
A dual electronic device wireless charger provided with a base with a socket configured to receive an inner charging module; the inner charging module coupled to the base by a cable; and an outer charging element of the base provided concentric around the socket. The inner charging module movable from a compact mode seated within the socket to an expanded mode displaced apart from the base. In the compact mode the dual electronic device wireless charger may wirelessly charge an electronic device via the inner charging module or the outer charging element and in the expanded mode both the inner charging module and the outer charging element may wirelessly charge separate electronic devices, simultaneously.