Wireless Charging Notification via Efficiency Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wireless charging systems, such as those defined by the Alliance for Wireless Power (A4WP), face inefficiencies due to varying charging efficiency across different locations on a charging pad, leading to longer charging times and poor user experience, especially when radio frequency interference (RFI) affects magnetic field uniformity and user awareness of optimal charging positions is limited.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a feedback mechanism that calculates and communicates DC:DC charging efficiency from the Power Transmission Unit (PTU) to the Power Receiving Unit (PRU) using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signaling, providing users with real-time charging efficiency information and recommendations to relocate for optimal charging, and optionally displaying this information on the device or using cloud-based monitoring for remote guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If wireless charging is implemented across a large charging pad area, then the active charging area is extended, but charging efficiency varies significantly across different locations leading to longer charging times
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the charging pad into multiple zones with different efficiency characteristics and provides location-specific feedback to users. Each zone is characterized by its charging efficiency level, allowing users to make informed decisions about device placement to optimize charging performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism that communicates charging efficiency information from the Power Transmission Unit to the user's device. This feedback enables users to adjust their device position in real-time to achieve optimal charging efficiency, effectively resolving the efficiency variation problem across different pad locations.
2Length of stationary object
If magnetic resonance coupling is used to extend charging distance, then the active charging area is increased, but radio frequency interference affects magnetic field uniformity
Solution Approach 1:
The system monitors charging efficiency and provides feedback to users about optimal positioning. This feedback mechanism helps users compensate for RFI effects by guiding them to place devices in locations where magnetic field uniformity is maintained, thus mitigating the harmful effects of radio frequency interference.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional wireless charging systems are used, then charging can be provided across multiple locations, but user awareness of optimal charging positions is limited leading to poor user experience
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time feedback about charging efficiency to users, enabling them to understand which positions on the charging pad provide optimal charging performance. This information feedback transforms the user experience by making invisible efficiency variations visible and actionable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system acts as an intermediary that translates complex magnetic field and efficiency data into simple, actionable guidance for users. By mediating between the physical charging environment and user decision-making, the system enables users to optimize charging without needing to understand the underlying physics.
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 ensuring efficient charging by allowing users to select optimal locations, reducing charging time variability, and improving overall system performance by minimizing RFI impacts and providing transparent charging efficiency feedback.
Implementation Method 1
PTUs of A4WP use an induction coil to generate a magnetic field from within a charging base station
Implementation Method 2
a second induction coil in the PRU (i.e., portable device) takes power from the magnetic field and converts the power back into electrical current
Implementation Method 3
Magnetic resonance coupling is the near field wireless transmission of electrical energy between two coils that are tuned to resonate at the same frequency
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure generally relates to methods, system and apparatus to optimize wireless charging by providing user notification when wireless charging efficiency is compromised. In an exemplary embodiment, the charging efficiency value of a device under charge (DUC) is calculated. When the charging efficiency value drops below a predefined threshold, the user is notified to relocate the DUC to a new location with respect to the Power Transmission Unit (PTU) to enhance charging efficiency. In another embodiment, a PTU charging efficiency map is generated to help guide the user for optimal wireless charging.