Wireless Charging Link Setup to Prevent BLE Cross Connections

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Solution Overview

Problem

In wireless power transfer systems, the inherent long-range nature of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio can cause 'cross connection' issues where multiple power transmitting units (PTUs) mistakenly connect to a remote power receiving unit (PRU) due to impedance/load detection difficulties and RSSI fluctuations, leading to inefficient power transfer.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a forward signaling protocol that uses modulated beacons and differential CDMA/convolutional coding for power modulation, allowing PRUs to detect and synchronize with the closest PTU, ensuring accurate power transfer and communication link establishment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If BLE radio is used for communication between PTU and PRU, then communication range is extended, but cross connection errors increase due to remote PTUs mistakenly connecting to local PRUs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication rangeVSAvoidconnection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by having the PRU transmit its identifier and location information before actual power transfer begins. The PTU receives this information in advance and uses it to determine whether to establish a connection, preventing remote PTUs from mistakenly connecting to local PRUs. This advance preparation resolves the contradiction by enabling accurate connection decisions while maintaining extended communication range.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the PRU continuously transmits its identifier and status information back to potential PTUs. The PTU uses this feedback to verify whether the PRU is within appropriate range and to prevent cross connections. This feedback loop resolves the contradiction by providing real-time information that enables accurate connection decisions despite the extended BLE communication range.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If impedance/load detection is used to identify PRU, then power transfer can be established, but detection reliability decreases due to RSSI fluctuations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower transfer establishmentVSAvoiddetection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using the PRU's transmitted identifier as an additional verification layer between impedance detection and connection establishment. Instead of relying solely on impedance/load detection which is affected by RSSI fluctuations, the system uses the identifier as a mediator to confirm the correct PRU-PTU pairing. This resolves the contradiction by providing a more reliable detection method that maintains productivity while improving accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple PTUs and PRUs operate in the same area, then system versatility increases, but cross connection problems arise due to remote PTUs grabbing local PRUs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-device supportVSAvoidconnection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by making each PRU's transmitted information locally specific and unique to its location and identity. The identifier and location information transmitted by each PRU allows nearby PTUs to distinguish between different PRUs and select the appropriate one for power transfer. This resolves the contradiction by enabling multiple PTUs and PRUs to operate simultaneously with high reliability, as each connection decision is based on local, specific information rather than generic detection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 detection reliability and efficiency by aligning message transmission with BLE timing, reducing the likelihood of cross connections and ensuring robust, high-efficiency power transfer even in environments with multiple PTUs and PRUs.

Implementation Method 1

wireless power transfer may include wirelessly or inductively transferring power via non-radiative, near-field magnetic resonance

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

resonant wireless transfer of power through magnetic induction between coils

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic resonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS11742704B2Systems, methods, and devices for wireless charging

Publication Date: 2023.08.29 INTEL CORP

AI summary

Embodiments relating to systems, methods, and devices for wireless charging are disclosed. In some embodiments, methods for establishing a communication link between a power transmitting unit (PTU) and a power receiving unit (PRU) through a low energy wireless communication interface are described.