Simultaneous Wireless Charging and Wired Data Transfer via Segmented Interface

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing charging and data transfer devices interrupt wireless charging when performing wired data transfer, and vice versa, limiting simultaneous operation.

Innovation Solution

A system with a housing, charging circuit, storage device, and controller that allows simultaneous wireless charging and wired data transfer by using a data-transfer-and-charging interface with specific pin configurations to enable continuous wireless charging without interrupting data transfer, using protocols like USB or Lightning connectors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If wired data transfer is performed through a charging interface, then data transfer speed is improved, but wireless charging is interrupted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer speedVSAvoidwireless charging continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The charging interface pins are segmented into different functional groups: data transfer pins (D+, D-) and power delivery pins (VBUS, GND). By disabling only the power delivery function of specific pins while maintaining data transfer capability, the system enables simultaneous wireless charging and wired data transfer without mutual interruption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The charging interface is designed with multi-functionality, allowing it to handle both data transfer and power delivery operations. Through protocol control and pin configuration, the interface can perform data transfer while the wireless charging circuit operates independently, making the system capable of concurrent operations that were previously mutually exclusive.

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

2Ease of operation

If wireless charging is performed, then charging convenience is improved, but data transfer must be interrupted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging convenienceVSAvoiddata transfer efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system maintains continuous wireless charging operation while enabling wired data transfer through the charging interface. The controller manages power delivery and data transfer operations simultaneously, ensuring that the wireless charging process continues without interruption while data backup or transfer occurs through the wired connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically configures the charging interface pins based on operational requirements. The controller can switch between different pin configurations to accommodate simultaneous wireless charging and wired data transfer, or prioritize one operation over the other based on user needs, providing flexible and adaptive operation modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If a charging interface is used for both power delivery and data transfer, then device versatility is improved, but simultaneous operation of both functions is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterface functionalityVSAvoidconcurrent operation reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The interface pins are segmented into distinct functional groups with independent control. Data pins (D+, D-) are separated from power pins (VBUS, GND), allowing the controller to enable data transfer while disabling power delivery through the same physical interface, thus enabling simultaneous wireless charging and wired data transfer operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters of the charging interface by modifying pin states and enabling/disabling specific functions through protocol control. By dynamically adjusting which pins are active for power delivery versus data transfer, the system achieves reliable concurrent operation of multiple functions that were previously mutually exclusive.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 seamless and efficient simultaneous wireless charging and wired data transfer, providing flexibility and convenience for users by preventing interruptions during data backup and charging processes.

Implementation Method 1

a charging circuit configured to wirelessly charge an electronic device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWireless charging: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11011945B2Systems and methods for wireless charging and wired data transfer
Publication Date: 2021.05.18 SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC
  • US11011945B2 patent drawing
  • US11011945B2 patent drawing
  • US11011945B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed are devices and methods for performing wireless charging of an electronic device and establishing a wired connection with the electronic device for data transfer. In some cases, a device includes a port that can supply power to charge the electronic device when a wired connection is detected between the device and the electronic device. The device can be configured such that the port does not supply power to the electronic device via wired connection when the device provides charging power to the electronic device wirelessly. Data transfer between the device and the electronic device can be performed via the port at the same time as wirelessly charging the electronic device.