Wireless Power Firmware Update via BLE Out-of-Band Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless power transmission systems lack an efficient method for firmware updating and version checking, particularly for wireless power transmitters and receivers, which can lead to outdated firmware and potential fabrication or falsification issues.
Innovation Solution
A wireless power transmission system that utilizes Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for out-band communication to transmit and update firmware between wireless power transmitters and receivers, including methods for firmware version checking and verification using digital signatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wireless power transmission systems use conventional wired charging connectors for firmware updates, then firmware can be updated reliably, but the system loses mobility and convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with a wireless communication system (Bluetooth Low Energy) for firmware transmission. This allows the wireless power receiver to receive firmware updates without physical connectors, maintaining mobility while enabling reliable firmware updates through wireless out-of-band communication channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces Bluetooth Low Energy communication as an intermediary channel for firmware transmission. This separate communication path allows firmware to be transmitted independently from the power transmission channel, enabling reliable firmware updates while maintaining the wireless power transfer function.
2Productivity
If wireless power transmitters rely on internet connectivity for firmware updates, then firmware can be updated centrally, but the system becomes vulnerable to connectivity issues and security risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the wireless power receiver to autonomously receive and install firmware updates directly from the wireless power transmitter without requiring external internet connectivity. The receiver initiates firmware requests, receives updates through BLE communication, and performs self-updating, making the system independent of external network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses Bluetooth Low Energy communication as an intermediary to establish a direct firmware transmission channel between the wireless power transmitter and receiver, bypassing the need for internet connectivity and associated security vulnerabilities while maintaining efficient update capability.
3Device complexity
If wireless power systems transmit power and communication signals through the same channel, then the system structure is simplified, but firmware authentication and security become compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication function into a separate out-of-band channel (Bluetooth Low Energy) distinct from the power transmission channel. This separation allows firmware authentication and transmission to occur through a dedicated secure channel, preventing interference and security compromises that would arise from sharing the same communication infrastructure.
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
Ensures that wireless power transmitter firmware is maintained at the latest state, preventing fabrication or falsification, and enabling stable firmware updates without relying on internet connectivity.
Implementation Method 1
a method transmitting power by using electric currents that are induced to the coil of the receiver by a magnetic field, which is generated from a coil battery cell of the transmitter, in accordance with an electromagnetic coupling between a transmitting coil and a receiving coil
Implementation Method 2
receive wireless power from a wireless power transmitter being equipped with a primary coil via magnetic coupling with the wireless power transmitter in an operating frequency and to convert an alternating current signal being generated by the wireless power to a direct current signal
Data Source
AI summary
The present specification relates to a wireless power transmission apparatus and a wireless power reception apparatus, which can transmit and update firmware of the wireless power transmission apparatus through out-band communication between the wireless power transmission apparatus and the wireless power reception apparatus, and to firmware updating of the wireless power transmission apparatus using out-band communication.