Dual-Mode Wireless Power Relay Device for Inter-Device Charging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless power transmission technologies lack the ability to efficiently relay power between devices without a wired connection, limiting the functionality of devices in environments without available wireless chargers and restricting the sharing of network resources.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device equipped with both power transmission and reception capabilities, using methods like inductive coupling and electromagnetic resonance, to relay power and communicate data between devices, allowing for mutual wireless power transfer and network resource sharing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If wireless power transmission is implemented using conventional methods, then power can be supplied to devices through fixed lines or direct charging, but the ability to relay power between devices without wired connection is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower relay capabilityVSAvoidsystem configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic device is designed with dual functionality to both transmit and receive wireless power signals. The power transmission unit and power reception unit are integrated into the same device, enabling it to act as either a power source or a power recipient depending on operational needs. This multi-functionality allows the device to relay power between multiple devices without requiring separate dedicated charging devices for each function.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The electronic device serves as an intermediary in the power transmission chain by receiving power from a first apparatus and transmitting it to a second apparatus. This mediator role enables power relay functionality where the device bridges the gap between power source and power consumer, allowing indirect wireless power transfer without direct connection between the original power source and the target device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If devices are equipped with both power transmission and reception functions, then power relaying between devices is enabled, but communication resource usage becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication resource sharingVSAvoidresource management
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller receives power control messages from the second apparatus through the power conversion unit and uses this feedback to determine whether to activate the power transmission function. This feedback mechanism allows the device to dynamically adjust its power transmission status based on the actual power needs and communication resource availability, optimizing resource usage while managing the complexity of having dual power functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If wireless power transmission is used, then devices can operate without wired connections, but the range and reliability of power transfer are limited compared to wired connections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewireless operationVSAvoidpower transfer stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The controller determines whether to activate power reception or transmission functions in advance based on received power control messages and operational conditions. This preliminary determination allows the system to prepare and switch between modes proactively, ensuring reliable power transfer by establishing the optimal configuration before power transmission begins, thereby maintaining stability despite the wireless nature of the connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 wireless power transfer between devices, providing power to devices without chargers and enabling network resource sharing, enhancing device functionality and usability in various environments.

Implementation Method 1

a power reception unit configured to receive a first wireless power signal formed by a first apparatus

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a power conversion unit configured to form a second wireless power signal for transmitting power to a second apparatus by using power of the battery

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9166654B2Wireless power transmission and communication between devices
Publication Date: 2015.10.20 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • US9166654B2 patent drawing
  • US9166654B2 patent drawing
  • US9166654B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device includes: a device main body having a battery; a power reception unit configured to receive a first wireless power signal formed by a first apparatus; a charging unit configured to charge the battery based on the received first wireless power signal; a power conversion unit configured to form a second wireless power signal for transmitting power to a second apparatus by using power of the battery; and a controller configured to determine whether to activate a power reception function or a power transmission function, wherein when the power reception function is activated, the controller controls the power reception unit to receive the first wireless power signal, and when the power transmission function is activated, the controller controls the power conversion unit to form the second wireless power.