Power system

摘要

The present invention provides methods and apparatus for reducing power consumption. One method includes detecting the presence of an object, identifying whether the object is a valid device and restricting power if its not a valid device. Another method includes temporarily applying a low amount of power to the primary unit to detect a load, supplying more power to determine if its a valid secondary device, and restricting power if its not. An apparatus for reducing power consumption includes two power inputs, where the lower power input powers a sense circuit. A switch selectively decouples the higher power input from the primary subcircuit during detection mode and couples the higher power input to the primary subcircuit during power supply mode.

主权项

1. A method for reducing power consumption in a primary unit capable of transferring power to a secondary device, said secondary device separable from said primary unit, said method comprising the steps of:
detecting presence of an object within proximity of said primary unit by using a sense circuit with a bridge in the primary unit to detect a change in inductance due to the object; sending a pulse of power to said object in response to detecting presence of said object within proximity of said primary unit; determining whether a valid secondary device is present in proximity to said primary unit in response to sending said pulse of power to said object; and in response to a determination that a valid secondary device is not present, restricting power supplied to said primary unit.