Wireless Power Transmitter Positioning via Communication Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electromagnetic wave-based wireless power transmission systems face inefficiencies and safety concerns due to the need for precise positioning of electronic devices, especially when devices are in motion or multiple power transmitting devices are present, which can lead to prolonged charging times and potential harm from high-power transmission without accurate target detection.
Innovation Solution
A wireless power transmitting device equipped with patch antennas and a communication circuit, capable of determining the position of an electronic device using communication signals and adjusting RF wave interference patterns for efficient charging, and seamlessly handing off charging to another device when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If RF waves are formed in multiple directions to detect electronic device position, then position detection capability is improved, but charging time increases and safety risks arise from delayed target detection
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary position detection using communication signals (WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC) before initiating power transmission. The wireless power transmitting device obtains position information of the electronic device in advance through communication circuits, allowing it to prepare the appropriate number and arrangement of patch antennas before charging begins, thus avoiding time delays during the charging process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces communication signals as an intermediary mechanism to obtain position information without requiring complex RF wave formation for detection. By using communication circuits to receive signals from the electronic device, the system can determine position indirectly and more efficiently, reducing the time needed for target detection while maintaining accuracy.
2Productivity
If high-power transmission is used to charge electronic devices, then charging efficiency is improved, but safety risks increase due to potential harm to human bodies
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the number of active patch antennas based on the detected position of the electronic device. When the device is detected at a safe distance or position, more antennas can be activated for high-power efficient charging. When the device moves closer or to positions that may expose users to harmful radiation, the system reduces the number of active antennas, thereby lowering transmission power and eliminating safety risks while maintaining charging functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different transmission power levels to different spatial regions by selectively activating specific patch antennas based on device position. Areas where the electronic device is detected receive appropriate power levels, while other areas maintain lower power levels to ensure safety. This localized quality adjustment allows high-power transmission only where needed and safe, resolving the contradiction between charging efficiency and safety.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wireless power transmitting devices are arranged to provide continuous charging coverage, then charging availability is improved, but position determination complexity increases when devices move between coverage areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes communication circuits universal by enabling them to serve dual purposes: both communication and position determination. The same communication signals used for device interaction also provide position information to all wireless power transmitting devices in the network. This multi-functionality allows multiple devices to independently determine device position without complex coordination, reducing system complexity while maintaining continuous charging coverage through seamless handoffs.
4Productivity
If the number of patch antennas is increased to improve power transmission efficiency, then charging speed is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically configures the number of active patch antennas based on the detected position of the electronic device. Rather than using a fixed large number of antennas, the system activates only the necessary number at any given time, adjusting the antenna configuration to match the device's location and charging requirements. This dynamic approach maintains high charging speed when needed while reducing complexity when fewer antennas are sufficient.
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 efficient and safe wireless charging by accurately determining the position of electronic devices and facilitating smooth handoffs between power transmitting devices, thereby reducing charging time and ensuring safety by optimizing power transmission.
Implementation Method 1
a communication circuit configured to receive information about a position of an electronic device from another wireless power transmitting device
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of patch antennas configured to transmit power to the electronic device based on the received information about the position of the electronic device
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses are provided for controlling a wireless power transmitting device. Information is received about a position of an electronic device from another wireless power transmitting device. Power is transmitted to the electronic device using the information about the position of the electronic device received from the other wireless power transmitting device.