NFC Module Induced Current Measurement for Wireless Charging Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional wireless charging configurations in thin portable devices suffer from inefficient energy transfer due to poor alignment of coil antennas, leading to wasted energy and suboptimal charging performance.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of an algorithm that utilizes an amplitude detector, analog-to-digital converter, and receiver indicator lights within the NFC module to measure induced current and adjust the alignment of coil antennas for maximum power transfer during wireless power transfer, optimizing the alignment to prevent energy waste and electromagnetic interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If wireless power transfer is implemented in thin portable devices with flat coil antennas, then wireless charging capability is achieved, but energy transfer efficiency deteriorates due to poor coil alignment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewireless charging capabilityVSAvoidenergy transfer efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system measures the induced current in the receiving coil and uses this feedback to determine whether to continue or stop power transmission. The algorithm compares the measured induced current to the transmitted power level and adjusts the wireless charging operation accordingly, optimizing energy transfer efficiency while maintaining wireless charging capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters of wireless power transfer based on measured conditions. By monitoring induced current levels and adjusting transmission parameters dynamically, the system optimizes energy transfer efficiency for the specific alignment conditions between transmitting and receiving coils

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If wireless power transfer operates without induced current measurement, then device complexity is reduced, but energy waste increases due to poor charging performance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging system complexityVSAvoidenergy waste
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The NFC module, which already exists for near field communication functions, is made multi-functional by also using it to measure induced current for wireless power transfer optimization. This approach adds energy monitoring capability without significantly increasing device complexity, as it leverages existing hardware infrastructure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses its own NFC module to measure the induced current generated during wireless power transfer, rather than requiring separate dedicated measurement hardware. The receiving coil itself serves as the measurement element, and the system self-regulates power transmission based on its own performance metrics

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

This solution enhances the efficiency of wireless charging by ensuring optimal alignment of coil antennas, reducing energy waste and improving charging performance while minimizing electromagnetic interference.

Implementation Method 1

The coil antenna may be utilized for the WPT such as, for example, when the coil antenna is exposed to magnetic fields that induce current to the coil antenna

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9496744B2Wireless charging optimization utilizing an NFC module that detects induced current and provides an indication of induced current
Publication Date: 2016.11.15 INTEL CORP
  • US9496744B2 patent drawing
  • US9496744B2 patent drawing
  • US9496744B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Described herein are techniques related to near field coupling and wireless charging or wireless power transfer (WPT). More particularly, an induced current at a receiving coil antenna is measured and utilized as a basis for re-alignment with a transmitting coil antenna is described.