Wireless Charger Feedback for Misalignment Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless charging systems require precise alignment of devices and often necessitate additional components or incompatibility with existing devices, lacking effective feedback for proper alignment and alignment verification.
Innovation Solution
A wireless charger with a presence detector and controller that alerts users via an annunciator when a device is present but not aligned for charging, utilizing various sensors and timing controls to differentiate between device presence and charging status, ensuring proper alignment and preventing unnecessary alerts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple coils are used in the charger to allow for a range of different operable positions, then alignment flexibility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs sensors to detect device presence and alignment status, with a controller that processes this information and provides feedback through an annunciator. This feedback mechanism enables the system to identify when a device is present but misaligned, guiding users to proper positioning without requiring multiple coils.
2Manufacturing precision
If magnets are used to force the device into alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but device compatibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors and controllers to detect alignment status and provide feedback through visual or audible annunciators. This feedback-based approach achieves precise alignment guidance without physical magnets, maintaining compatibility with all wireless charging devices regardless of their magnetic configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical alignment forces (magnets) with an electronic detection and feedback system. Sensors detect device presence and position, the controller processes this data, and the annunciator provides guidance, substituting mechanical intervention with electronic control to maintain universal compatibility.
3Measurement precision
If sensors and controllers are added to detect device presence and alignment, then alignment verification is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller serves multiple functions: it manages the charging process, processes sensor data for device detection, determines alignment status, and controls the annunciator. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be separate complex components into a single integrated unit, minimizing added complexity while achieving precise alignment verification.
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
Enhances user experience by providing tactile and visual feedback for correct alignment, ensuring efficient charging while maintaining compatibility with existing devices and avoiding false alerts during completed charging or device removal.
Implementation Method 1
Wireless chargers employ electrical coils that generate a magnetic field to transfer energy and charge a battery in a device
Implementation Method 2
a sensor connected to the frame and operable to determine whether a device is present on the support surface
Data Source
AI summary
A charger for an electronic device has a wireless transducer, the charger comprises a frame having a device support surface configured to support the device, and a charging element connected to the frame and configured to transmit charging energy to the transducer of a device on the support surface, and a sensor connected to the frame and operable to determine whether a device is present on the support surface, and an annunciator. It has a controller connected to the frame, to the transducer, to the charging element, and to the annunciator; and the controller is responsive to determine a fault condition in which the sensor determines that a device is present on the support surface but the charging element is not transmitting charging energy, and to activate the annunciator in response to the fault condition.