WO2009147587A1 - Wearable rechargeable power system and electronic device - Google Patents

Wearable rechargeable power system and electronic device Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2009147587A1
WO2009147587A1 PCT/IB2009/052232 IB2009052232W WO2009147587A1 WO 2009147587 A1 WO2009147587 A1 WO 2009147587A1 IB 2009052232 W IB2009052232 W IB 2009052232W WO 2009147587 A1 WO2009147587 A1 WO 2009147587A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
power system
power source
conversion means
power
magnetoelectric
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2009/052232
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Giovanni Nisato
Jiang Zhou
Willem F. P. Pasveer
Roelf Kassies
Rogier A. H. Niessen
Original Assignee
Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. filed Critical Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
Publication of WO2009147587A1 publication Critical patent/WO2009147587A1/en

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/42—Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance of secondary cells or secondary half-cells
    • H01M10/44—Methods for charging or discharging
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/42—Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance of secondary cells or secondary half-cells
    • H01M10/425—Structural combination with electronic components, e.g. electronic circuits integrated to the outside of the casing
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/42—Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance of secondary cells or secondary half-cells
    • H01M10/46—Accumulators structurally combined with charging apparatus
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02J—CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J50/00—Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power
    • H02J50/10—Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using inductive coupling
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02J—CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/0042—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries characterised by the mechanical construction
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
    • Y02E60/10—Energy storage using batteries

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a wearable rechargeable power system.
  • the invention also relates to a wearable electronic device provided with such a power system.
  • the invention further relates to an assembly of a such a power system and a charging unit adapted to generate a magnetic field.
  • Wearable electronic devices are ubiquitous in both the consumer electronics and medical device domains. Ranging from MP3 players to heart monitoring systems, their function varies from entertaining to monitoring vital signs. Such devices share one aspect: they require a power source which should be convenient, easy to use and unobtrusive.
  • the most commonly used portable power sources are batteries either to be replaced when discharged or rechargeable units. The latter can be recharged in-situ when attached to the mains with a cable or a transformer or have to be removed from the device and subsequently recharged. Induction-coil based recharging is sometimes used (e.g. in electric toothbrushes).
  • consumer products e.g.
  • a wearable rechargeable power system comprising: at least one rechargeable power source, and magnetoelectric conversion means connected to said power source for converting an imposed magnetic field into electrical energy to enable recharging of said power source, said magnetoelectric conversion means as such being deformable to be removably attachable to a person.
  • the deformability of the magnetoelectric conversion means facilitates attachment of the power system to a user and subsequent detachment of the power system from a user, and moreover enables integration of the power system with a body band, such as e.g. a wrist band and an arm band, or a garment.
  • a further major advantage of the power system according to the invention is that due to the application of the magnetoelectric means recharging of the power source can take place at more convenience of the person, for instance by positioning induction-coil based magnetic charging pads for example on, under, or in a mattress for charging during the night, or for example in treadmill equipment for charging during jogging. It may be clear that said charging pads may also be positioned at or in any other suitable accommodation, room or space.
  • this magnetoelectric means will commonly have a three-dimensional geometry during wearing, such that an improved probability can be obtained that at least a part of said magnetoelectric means is oriented substantially perpendicular to (a component of) the applied magnetic field, in order to secure the generation of sufficient electrical energy to (re)charge the power source(s) of the power system according to the invention. Undesired power source depletion can be counteracted this way.
  • Different kinds of (wearable) electronic devices can be powered by means of the power system according to the invention, such as wearable holsters for remote alert devices (fall detection and prevention), wearable monitoring devices for monitoring e.g. the physical activity, in particular heart activity, wearable drug delivery systems, wearable audio/video players, et cetera.
  • the magnetoelectric conversion means comprises multiple magnetoelectric segments hingeably connected together.
  • the assembly of (substantially rigid) segments also provides the favourable deformability of the magnetoelectric means.
  • Each magnetoelectric segment preferably comprises a rechargeable power source. This manner each segment in fact forms a micro power system, which could result in a relatively compact, efficient, and solid construction of the power system according to the invention.
  • the power source applied preferably comprises at least one solid-state battery, and more preferably a thin film battery comprising a substrate, and at least one battery stack deposited onto said substrate, the battery stack comprising: a first battery electrode, a second battery electrode, and an intermediate solid-state electrolyte separating the first battery electrode and the second battery electrode.
  • at least one battery electrode of the power source is adapted for storage of active species of at least one of following elements: hydrogen (H), lithium (Li), beryllium (Be), magnesium (Mg), aluminium (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), sodium (Na) and potassium (K), or any other suitable element which is assigned to group 1 or group 2 of the periodic table.
  • the power source of the electrical device according to the invention may be based on various intercalation mechanisms and is therefore suitable to form different kinds of batteries, e.g. Li- ion batteries, NiMH batteries, et cetera.
  • at least one battery electrode more preferably the battery anode, comprises at least one of the following materials: C, Sn, Ge, Pb, Zn, Bi, Sb, Li, and, preferably doped, Si.
  • C, Sn, Ge, Pb, Zn, Bi, Sb, Li and, preferably doped, Si.
  • n-type or p-type doped Si is used as battery electrode, or a doped Si- related compound, like SiGe or SiGeC.
  • the battery anode preferably any other suitable element which is assigned to one of groups 12-16 of the periodic table, provided that the material of the battery electrode is adapted for intercalation and storing of the abovementioned reactive species.
  • the aforementioned materials are in particularly suitable to be applied in lithium ion batteries.
  • the battery anode preferably comprises a hydride forming material, such as ABs-type materials, in particular LaNi 5 , and such as magnesium-based alloys, in particular Mg x Tii_ x .
  • the battery cathode for a lithium ion based energy source preferably comprises at least one metal-oxide based material, e.g.
  • the battery cathode preferably comprises Ni(OH) 2 and/or NiM(OH) 2 , wherein M is formed by one or more elements selected from the group of e.g. Cd, Co, or Bi. Further embodiments are disclosed in the international application WO 2008/032252 in the name of applicant. All patents, patent applications, and literature references cited in this specification are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
  • the power source may comprise at least one capacitor to power the electronic component of the electronic device according to the invention. Several types of capacitors can be used among which wet/dry capacitors, elcos, supercaps, ultracaps, et cetera.
  • the power source is stacked by a polymer deposited in cavities formed in laminated material layers of the power source.
  • the power source is formed by the so-called "Lithylene” technology.
  • This "Lithylene” technology is described in more detail in the American patent publication US 6,432,576.
  • the material layers themselves are not embedded in a polymer, but the polymer is used exclusively for binding material layers together. Binding the material layers is commonly important in a battery and/or a capacitor, as the operation temperature of these power sources can vary over a wide range, thereby expanding and shrinking components of the power source significantly. Solid electrical contact must be maintained between all material layers within the power source at every temperature.
  • the "Lithylene” technology is particularly advantageous with assemblies ("stacks") of multiple power sources as the assembly can obtain a relatively good mechanical strength by riveting of the components of said assembly.
  • the polymeric material is shaped so as to fit the shapes of the respective holes (cavities). The shape of said assembly can be maintained in a relatively easy and simple way through riveting of said assembly.
  • a major advantage of the lithylene technology is to provide a compact stack wherein optimal contact between separate material layers can be secured.
  • the magnetoelectric means comprises at least one coil for converting an imposed magnetic field into electrical energy.
  • the induced electrical current is subsequently used to (re)charge the power source of the electronic device.
  • the application of coils is relatively cheap and robust.
  • the magnetoelectric conversion means comprises at least one stack of at least one magnetoelastic layer and at least one piezoelectric layer. In case said stack is subjected to an (alternating) magnetic field the magnetoelastic layer and consequently the piezoelectric layer will be deformed resulting in the generation of an electrical energy within the piezoelectric layer.
  • said magnetoelectric stack (laminate) of said at least one magnetoelastic layer and said at least one piezoelectric layer preferably a stack of at least one piezoelectric layer which is sandwiched between multiple magnetoelastic layers, is commonly most preferred, since the application of said stack leads to a relatively efficient conversion of an imposed magnetic field into electrical energy with respect to the situation wherein this conversion is realized by means of one or multiple coils.
  • the power source and the magnetoelectric means are releasably connected to each other.
  • the electronic device commonly comprises a power management system connected to both the power source and the magnetoelectric conversion means.
  • the primary function of said power management system is to optimize a relatively quick and safe (re)charging process of the power source dependent on the characteristics of said power source.
  • the power management typically comprises an electric converter (DC-DC or AC- DC) to convert the voltage induced within the magnetoelectric means to a desired voltage for the power source to be charged.
  • a (micro)controller one or multiple charging parameters can be measured, such as the charging current, the charging voltage, and the temperature. Based upon these measurements the charging process can eventually be manipulated and hence further be optimized.
  • the power management system comprises a second converter for converting the voltage of the power source to the voltage requirement by the electric component powered by said power source. In case this second converter is applied, the (micro)controller preferably also checks the voltage provided to the electric component in order to be able to prevent said voltage to drop below a minimum voltage required by said electric component.
  • the power system is preferably arranged for removable attachment to a person's arm, wrist or trunk/torso. In this manner the power system can efficiently be shaped as an easy to wear belt, strap, or chain. It is also conceivable that the power system is incorporated in a garment, such as a pair of trousers, a shirt, a cap, shoes, et cetera.
  • the invention also relates to a wearable electronic device provided with a power system according to the invention.
  • wearable electronic devices are wearable holsters for remote alert devices (fall detection and prevention), wearable monitoring devices for monitoring e.g. the physical activity, in particular heart activity, wearable drug delivery systems, wearable sensors, wearable transmitters, wearable receivers, wearable audio/video players, et cetera.
  • the power system is releasably connected to the electronic device. In this manner the electronic device can be detached from the power system, while the power system remains attached to the user's body, which allows charging of the power system worn by a user, e.g.
  • the invention further relates to an assembly of a wearable rechargeable power system according to the invention and a charging unit adapted to generate a magnetic field.
  • the charging unit commonly comprises one or multiple coils to induce the magnetic field.
  • Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a power system according to the invention
  • Fig. 2a shows a cross section of an alternative power system according to the invention
  • Fig. 2b shows an exploded view of the power system according to figure 2a
  • Fig. 3 shows an assembly of a electronic device provided with a power system according to the invention, and a treadmill incorporating a magnetic charging unit.
  • FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a power system 1 according to the invention.
  • the power system 1 is deformable and is arranged to be attached to a person's wrist, said power system 1 comprising multiple segments 2, which are mutually hingeably connected by means of intermediate links 3.
  • Each segment 2 comprises a battery 4 and a magnetoelectric stack of two magnetoelastic layers 5a, 5b enclosing a piezoelectric layer 6, wherein the mangetoelectric stack is connected to said battery 4, commonly by means of a power management system (not shown in this figure).
  • the magnetoelastic layers 5 a, 5b will cause the piezoelectric layer 6 to deform resulting in an induced electrical current within the stack.
  • the induced current will be used to (re)charge the battery 4. Since every segment 2 has its own (unique) orientation, there is a relatively large likelihood that at least one of the magnetoelectric stacks will generate an induced electrical current, and hence that at least one of the batteries 4 will be charged. Depletion of the electrical energy contained by the power system 1 as such can therefore be counteracted.
  • the power system 1 is adapted to be connected to an electronic device (not shown) to be powered, such as an audio/video player or a monitoring device.
  • the magnetoelctric stack of a segment 2 could also be electrically connected to a battery of another segment 2 to enable (re)charging of batteries 4 in segments 2 other than the segment 2 wherein the electrical energy is induced.
  • the power system 7 comprises flexible battery 8 and a flexible induction coil array 9, said battery 8 and said coil array 9 being mutually connected by means of a power management system 10.
  • the coil array 9 is adapted to induce an electrical current which will subsequently be used to (re)charge the batter 8.
  • the power system 7 is shaped as a belt and is as such be arranged to be releasably fastened to a person's wrist, leg, trunk, or the like.
  • the power system 7 comprises two fastening clips 11a, 1 Ib to realize said fastening to a person.
  • the power system 7 further comprises a hypoallergenic layer 12 which is provided with an antibacterial coating, said hypoallergenic layer 12 being adapted to engage to a body surface of the user.
  • the power system 7 also comprises a protective and reinforcing textile top layer 13.
  • Fig. 3 shows an assembly 14 of a audio player 15 provided with a belt shaped power system 16 according to the invention, and a treadmill 17 incorporating a magnetic charging unit 18.
  • the charging unit 18 is adapted to emit a magnetic field B, which magnetic field B will (partially) be received by the power system 16.
  • the power system 16 is adapted to convert the magnetic field into electrical energy which is subsequently used to (re)charge a battery of the power 16 used to power the audio player 15.
  • a person 19 wearing the audio player 15 and the power system 16 can continuously enjoy the audio player 15 without having the inconvenience of having to change or manually having to recharge batteries to power the audio player 15.

Abstract

The invention relates to wearable rechargeable power system comprising at least one rechargeable power source and magnetoelectric conversionmeans connected to said power source for converting an imposed magnetic field into electrical energy to enable recharging of said power source. The magnetoelectric conversion means as such are deformable to be removably attachable to a person. 5

Description

Wearable rechargeable power system and electronic device
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a wearable rechargeable power system. The invention also relates to a wearable electronic device provided with such a power system. The invention further relates to an assembly of a such a power system and a charging unit adapted to generate a magnetic field.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Wearable electronic devices are ubiquitous in both the consumer electronics and medical device domains. Ranging from MP3 players to heart monitoring systems, their function varies from entertaining to monitoring vital signs. Such devices share one aspect: they require a power source which should be convenient, easy to use and unobtrusive. The most commonly used portable power sources are batteries either to be replaced when discharged or rechargeable units. The latter can be recharged in-situ when attached to the mains with a cable or a transformer or have to be removed from the device and subsequently recharged. Induction-coil based recharging is sometimes used (e.g. in electric toothbrushes). In the case of consumer products (e.g. MP3 players for joggers), empty batteries are a nuisance and it would be advantageous to have both a convenient way to recharge the unit and a more convenient form factor, as generally batteries occupy over 30% of the volume of a device. In the case of medical wearable devices, convenience and unobtrusiveness are a must to increase user compliance and minimize stress associated with wearing the device, which can itself interfere with the monitoring (e.g. heart) of the system itself. In the case of medical devices meant to treat chronic patients requiring constant power output (e.g. wearable, transcutaneous drug delivery systems), the power-source might be recharged or changed daily. This is an issue for many users, especially elderly, who should not be expected to remember to change or recharge battery.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to provide a more efficient wearable rechargeable power system. The object can be achieved by providing a wearable rechargeable power system, comprising: at least one rechargeable power source, and magnetoelectric conversion means connected to said power source for converting an imposed magnetic field into electrical energy to enable recharging of said power source, said magnetoelectric conversion means as such being deformable to be removably attachable to a person. The deformability of the magnetoelectric conversion means facilitates attachment of the power system to a user and subsequent detachment of the power system from a user, and moreover enables integration of the power system with a body band, such as e.g. a wrist band and an arm band, or a garment. Since the power system according to the invention could be partially or fully integrated in a body band or a garment, there is no longer need to incorporate the power source in an electronic device to be powered, which could lead to a significant volume reduction of the applied electronic device. A further major advantage of the power system according to the invention is that due to the application of the magnetoelectric means recharging of the power source can take place at more convenience of the person, for instance by positioning induction-coil based magnetic charging pads for example on, under, or in a mattress for charging during the night, or for example in treadmill equipment for charging during jogging. It may be clear that said charging pads may also be positioned at or in any other suitable accommodation, room or space. Moreover, since the magnetoelectric means are deformable, this magnetoelectric means will commonly have a three-dimensional geometry during wearing, such that an improved probability can be obtained that at least a part of said magnetoelectric means is oriented substantially perpendicular to (a component of) the applied magnetic field, in order to secure the generation of sufficient electrical energy to (re)charge the power source(s) of the power system according to the invention. Undesired power source depletion can be counteracted this way. Different kinds of (wearable) electronic devices can be powered by means of the power system according to the invention, such as wearable holsters for remote alert devices (fall detection and prevention), wearable monitoring devices for monitoring e.g. the physical activity, in particular heart activity, wearable drug delivery systems, wearable audio/video players, et cetera.
In a preferred embodiment at least a part of said magnetoelectric conversion means is flexible to provide the favourable deformability. However, it could also be favourable that the magnetoelectric conversion means comprises multiple magnetoelectric segments hingeably connected together. The assembly of (substantially rigid) segments also provides the favourable deformability of the magnetoelectric means. Each magnetoelectric segment preferably comprises a rechargeable power source. This manner each segment in fact forms a micro power system, which could result in a relatively compact, efficient, and solid construction of the power system according to the invention.
The power source applied preferably comprises at least one solid-state battery, and more preferably a thin film battery comprising a substrate, and at least one battery stack deposited onto said substrate, the battery stack comprising: a first battery electrode, a second battery electrode, and an intermediate solid-state electrolyte separating the first battery electrode and the second battery electrode. Preferably, at least one battery electrode of the power source is adapted for storage of active species of at least one of following elements: hydrogen (H), lithium (Li), beryllium (Be), magnesium (Mg), aluminium (Al), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), sodium (Na) and potassium (K), or any other suitable element which is assigned to group 1 or group 2 of the periodic table. So, the power source of the electrical device according to the invention may be based on various intercalation mechanisms and is therefore suitable to form different kinds of batteries, e.g. Li- ion batteries, NiMH batteries, et cetera. In a preferred embodiment at least one battery electrode, more preferably the battery anode, comprises at least one of the following materials: C, Sn, Ge, Pb, Zn, Bi, Sb, Li, and, preferably doped, Si. A combination of these materials may also be used to form the battery electrode(s). Preferably, n-type or p-type doped Si is used as battery electrode, or a doped Si- related compound, like SiGe or SiGeC. Also other suitable materials may be applied as battery anode, preferably any other suitable element which is assigned to one of groups 12-16 of the periodic table, provided that the material of the battery electrode is adapted for intercalation and storing of the abovementioned reactive species. The aforementioned materials are in particularly suitable to be applied in lithium ion batteries. In case a hydrogen based energy source is applied, the battery anode preferably comprises a hydride forming material, such as ABs-type materials, in particular LaNi5, and such as magnesium-based alloys, in particular MgxTii_x. The battery cathode for a lithium ion based energy source preferably comprises at least one metal-oxide based material, e.g. LiCoO2, LiNiO2, LiMnO2 or a combination of these such as. e.g. Li(NiCoMn)O2. In case of a hydrogen based energy source, the battery cathode preferably comprises Ni(OH)2 and/or NiM(OH)2, wherein M is formed by one or more elements selected from the group of e.g. Cd, Co, or Bi. Further embodiments are disclosed in the international application WO 2008/032252 in the name of applicant. All patents, patent applications, and literature references cited in this specification are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Alternatively the power source may comprise at least one capacitor to power the electronic component of the electronic device according to the invention. Several types of capacitors can be used among which wet/dry capacitors, elcos, supercaps, ultracaps, et cetera.
In a preferred embodiment, the power source is stacked by a polymer deposited in cavities formed in laminated material layers of the power source. In this way the power source is formed by the so-called "Lithylene" technology. This "Lithylene" technology is described in more detail in the American patent publication US 6,432,576. In this technology, the material layers themselves are not embedded in a polymer, but the polymer is used exclusively for binding material layers together. Binding the material layers is commonly important in a battery and/or a capacitor, as the operation temperature of these power sources can vary over a wide range, thereby expanding and shrinking components of the power source significantly. Solid electrical contact must be maintained between all material layers within the power source at every temperature. Polymeric riveting of all material layers can cause this solid contact to be maintained. The viscosity of the polymer must be sufficient low to allow good filling of empty spaces within the power source in such a way that eventual leakage of the power source is prevented. The "Lithylene" technology is particularly advantageous with assemblies ("stacks") of multiple power sources as the assembly can obtain a relatively good mechanical strength by riveting of the components of said assembly. The polymeric material is shaped so as to fit the shapes of the respective holes (cavities). The shape of said assembly can be maintained in a relatively easy and simple way through riveting of said assembly. As mentioned above, a major advantage of the lithylene technology is to provide a compact stack wherein optimal contact between separate material layers can be secured. Consequently, the application of a conventional relatively heavy and rigid metal casing is no longer required, and the application of a relatively thin (flexible) polymer protective casing would be satisfactory, resulting in a significant increased degree of freedom of design of the power source, wherein the manufacturing of a bendable/flexible power source is very well conceivable.
In a preferred embodiment the magnetoelectric means comprises at least one coil for converting an imposed magnetic field into electrical energy. The induced electrical current is subsequently used to (re)charge the power source of the electronic device. The application of coils is relatively cheap and robust. In an alternative preferred embodiment the magnetoelectric conversion means comprises at least one stack of at least one magnetoelastic layer and at least one piezoelectric layer. In case said stack is subjected to an (alternating) magnetic field the magnetoelastic layer and consequently the piezoelectric layer will be deformed resulting in the generation of an electrical energy within the piezoelectric layer. The application of said magnetoelectric stack (laminate) of said at least one magnetoelastic layer and said at least one piezoelectric layer, preferably a stack of at least one piezoelectric layer which is sandwiched between multiple magnetoelastic layers, is commonly most preferred, since the application of said stack leads to a relatively efficient conversion of an imposed magnetic field into electrical energy with respect to the situation wherein this conversion is realized by means of one or multiple coils. In this context it is noted that it is imaginable and sometimes even preferable that the power source and the magnetoelectric means are releasably connected to each other.
The electronic device commonly comprises a power management system connected to both the power source and the magnetoelectric conversion means. The primary function of said power management system is to optimize a relatively quick and safe (re)charging process of the power source dependent on the characteristics of said power source. The power management typically comprises an electric converter (DC-DC or AC- DC) to convert the voltage induced within the magnetoelectric means to a desired voltage for the power source to be charged. By means of a (micro)controller one or multiple charging parameters can be measured, such as the charging current, the charging voltage, and the temperature. Based upon these measurements the charging process can eventually be manipulated and hence further be optimized. Optionally, the power management system comprises a second converter for converting the voltage of the power source to the voltage requirement by the electric component powered by said power source. In case this second converter is applied, the (micro)controller preferably also checks the voltage provided to the electric component in order to be able to prevent said voltage to drop below a minimum voltage required by said electric component.
The power system is preferably arranged for removable attachment to a person's arm, wrist or trunk/torso. In this manner the power system can efficiently be shaped as an easy to wear belt, strap, or chain. It is also conceivable that the power system is incorporated in a garment, such as a pair of trousers, a shirt, a cap, shoes, et cetera.
The invention also relates to a wearable electronic device provided with a power system according to the invention. Examples of these wearable electronic devices are wearable holsters for remote alert devices (fall detection and prevention), wearable monitoring devices for monitoring e.g. the physical activity, in particular heart activity, wearable drug delivery systems, wearable sensors, wearable transmitters, wearable receivers, wearable audio/video players, et cetera. In a preferred embodiment the power system is releasably connected to the electronic device. In this manner the electronic device can be detached from the power system, while the power system remains attached to the user's body, which allows charging of the power system worn by a user, e.g. during the night, while the user does not have the inconvenience of the presence of the (commonly relatively voluminous) electronic device. The invention further relates to an assembly of a wearable rechargeable power system according to the invention and a charging unit adapted to generate a magnetic field. The charging unit commonly comprises one or multiple coils to induce the magnetic field.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention is illustrated by way of the following non- limitative examples, wherein:
Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a power system according to the invention, Fig. 2a shows a cross section of an alternative power system according to the invention, Fig. 2b shows an exploded view of the power system according to figure 2a, and
Fig. 3 shows an assembly of a electronic device provided with a power system according to the invention, and a treadmill incorporating a magnetic charging unit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a power system 1 according to the invention. The power system 1 is deformable and is arranged to be attached to a person's wrist, said power system 1 comprising multiple segments 2, which are mutually hingeably connected by means of intermediate links 3. Each segment 2 comprises a battery 4 and a magnetoelectric stack of two magnetoelastic layers 5a, 5b enclosing a piezoelectric layer 6, wherein the mangetoelectric stack is connected to said battery 4, commonly by means of a power management system (not shown in this figure). By subjecting the magnetoelectric stack to a magnetic field, the magnetoelastic layers 5 a, 5b will cause the piezoelectric layer 6 to deform resulting in an induced electrical current within the stack. The induced current will be used to (re)charge the battery 4. Since every segment 2 has its own (unique) orientation, there is a relatively large likelihood that at least one of the magnetoelectric stacks will generate an induced electrical current, and hence that at least one of the batteries 4 will be charged. Depletion of the electrical energy contained by the power system 1 as such can therefore be counteracted. The power system 1 is adapted to be connected to an electronic device (not shown) to be powered, such as an audio/video player or a monitoring device. Optionally, the magnetoelctric stack of a segment 2 could also be electrically connected to a battery of another segment 2 to enable (re)charging of batteries 4 in segments 2 other than the segment 2 wherein the electrical energy is induced. Fig. 2a and fig. 2b show a cross section of an alternative power system 7 according to the invention. The power system 7 comprises flexible battery 8 and a flexible induction coil array 9, said battery 8 and said coil array 9 being mutually connected by means of a power management system 10. The coil array 9 is adapted to induce an electrical current which will subsequently be used to (re)charge the batter 8. The power system 7 is shaped as a belt and is as such be arranged to be releasably fastened to a person's wrist, leg, trunk, or the like. The power system 7 comprises two fastening clips 11a, 1 Ib to realize said fastening to a person. The power system 7 further comprises a hypoallergenic layer 12 which is provided with an antibacterial coating, said hypoallergenic layer 12 being adapted to engage to a body surface of the user. The power system 7 also comprises a protective and reinforcing textile top layer 13.
Fig. 3 shows an assembly 14 of a audio player 15 provided with a belt shaped power system 16 according to the invention, and a treadmill 17 incorporating a magnetic charging unit 18. The charging unit 18 is adapted to emit a magnetic field B, which magnetic field B will (partially) be received by the power system 16. The power system 16 is adapted to convert the magnetic field into electrical energy which is subsequently used to (re)charge a battery of the power 16 used to power the audio player 15. By means of the assembly according to the invention, a person 19 wearing the audio player 15 and the power system 16 can continuously enjoy the audio player 15 without having the inconvenience of having to change or manually having to recharge batteries to power the audio player 15. It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. Use of the verb "comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

CLAIMS:
1. Wearable rechargeable power system, comprising: at least one rechargeable power source, and magnetoelectric conversion means connected to said power source for converting an imposed magnetic field into electrical energy to enable recharging of said power source, said magnetoelectric conversion means as such being deformable to be removably attachable to a person.
2. Power system according to claim 1, wherein at least a part of said magnetoelectric conversion means is flexible.
3. Power system according to claim 1, wherein said magnetoelectric conversion means comprises multiple magnetoelectric segments hingeably connected together.
4. Power system according to claim 3, wherein each magnetoelectric segment comprises a power source.
5. Power system according to claim 1, wherein the power source comprises at least one solid-state battery.
6. Power system according to claim 1, wherein the power source comprises at least one capacitor.
7. Power system according to claim 1, wherein the magnetoelectric conversion means comprises at least one coil for converting an imposed magnetic field into electrical energy.
8. Power system according to claim 1, wherein the magnetoelectric conversion means comprises at least one stack of at least one magnetoelastic layer and at least one piezoelectric layer.
9. Power system according to claim 8, wherein the magnetoelectric conversion means comprises at least one stack of at least one piezoelectric layer which is sandwiched between multiple magnetoelastic layers.
10. Power system according to claim 1, wherein the power system is arranged for removable attachment to a person's arm, wrist or trunk.
11. Power system according to claim 1, wherein the power system is substantially belt shaped.
12. Power system according to claim 1, wherein the power system is incorporated in a garment.
13. Wearable electronic device provided with a power system according to claim
1.
14. Electronic device according to claim 13, wherein the power system is releasably connected to the electronic device.
15. Assembly of a wearable rechargeable power system according to claim 1 and a charging unit adapted to generate a magnetic field.
PCT/IB2009/052232 2008-06-05 2009-05-27 Wearable rechargeable power system and electronic device WO2009147587A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP08157669 2008-06-05
EP08157669.6 2008-06-05

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WO2014085291A3 (en) * 2012-11-27 2014-10-23 Qualcomm Incorporated Wireless charging systems and methods
WO2017053094A1 (en) * 2015-09-23 2017-03-30 Qualcomm Incorporated Wireless charging receiver using piezoelectric material
WO2017052963A1 (en) * 2015-09-25 2017-03-30 Qualcomm Incorporated Multiple-axis wireless power receiver
WO2017095577A1 (en) * 2015-11-30 2017-06-08 Qualcomm Incorporated Enhanced coupling in a wearable resonator

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WO2014085291A3 (en) * 2012-11-27 2014-10-23 Qualcomm Incorporated Wireless charging systems and methods
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WO2017052963A1 (en) * 2015-09-25 2017-03-30 Qualcomm Incorporated Multiple-axis wireless power receiver
WO2017095577A1 (en) * 2015-11-30 2017-06-08 Qualcomm Incorporated Enhanced coupling in a wearable resonator

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