Abstract: A two-mode DC/DC converter systems, for use in wireless power transmission receivers, and which allow the use of conventional logic circuits, operating at voltages well over IV, to efficiently drive DC/DC converter circuits even while being powered from the low voltage, even below IV, of a photovoltaic cell output. Two separate control modules may control the DC/DC converter, a first using a simple control for switching the converter, capable of being powered by the low voltages generated by the PV. Once a voltage above about 1.5V is generated at the output of the DC/DC converter, a second, more complex controller can become powered up, and takes control of the voltage conversion process, driving the converter more efficiently, and able to adapt its control function according to logical input instructions and sensor outputs received. The complex controller can operate independently, or in conjunction with the simple controller, to increase efficiency further.

Abstract: New systems for the wireless recharging of the batteries of game controllers, without the need for placing the game controller on a dedicated charging device such as an inductively coupled charging pad or its charging docking station. Wireless charging can continue even when the gaming controllers are being moved, when in use during the gaming session, and certainly when the controller is left by the user in some random location in the area in which the system is installed. A transmitter beams optical power, such as a laser beam, to an optical power receiver located on the controller itself, which, using a photovoltaic cell and an appropriate voltage converter, converts the optical beam power to a current for charging the battery. A beam aiming mechanism, such as a scanning mirror, is provided to ensure correct tracking of the game controller, according to the outputs of a beam tracking application.

Abstract: A diagnostic system for a high power laser system, which detects and responds to malfunctions in interlocks of the laser safety system. A fault detected in any interlock circuit mandates a limitation in the operating conditions of the laser, or even a shutdown. In order to distinguish between transient faults, arising typically from ambient conditions, and more permanent faults, arising from faulty components or circuits, and which require external intervention to rectify, the system uses a database of possible fault classifications to determine the likely type of fault. If the fault is likely transient, the laser is maintained in a reduced power state, until one or more temporary interlocks are applied as backup for the failed interlocks, so that the system can be repeatedly tested for fault correction at full power output. Once the fault recovers, the backup interlocks may be disabled and the system returned to full operation.

Abstract: New systems for ensuring the reliable function of systems for laser powering and information propagation using receivers located in premises frequented by the public, such as a store or a public office, using information displays. The systems employ a wireless power transmitter which has a detector for determining whether the premises is operating in a situation characteristic of normal working hours, with people present who may interfere with its correct operation, or whether the situation is typical of closed premises, with low or zero occupancy, enabling the system to operate reliably in what may be termed an “after-hours” mode. Operations which must be performed reliably include charging the receivers, updating of the displays, maintenance of the devices, and software updates. The system can detect the presence of human activity directly, or by implication by the cessation of services such as lighting or air conditioning in the area.

Abstract: Systems for the aiming of a laser beam of wireless power towards the photovoltaic cell of a receiver, using an adjustable beam deflection unit, enabling accurate orientation of the mirror used to deflect the laser beam. Insufficient aiming accuracy may result in the spilling over of beam energy intended for absorption by the photovoltaic cell, into the surroundings. The criteria of accuracy and stability required of an electronically controlled beam aiming mirror must be such that the angular deviation of a beam, from the direction intended by the electronic control, is such that the level of optical power transferred into the surroundings, when a beam having the maximum power which the system can transmit is aimed at the target, does not exceed that allowed by a regulatory requirement. One common regulation limits the allowed dissipated power to the power of a class 3B laser.

Abstract: A system for safe transmission of an RF electromagnetic power beam to a receiver for conversion into electric power. The receiver has an antenna array for receiving the RF beam and electrical circuitry to receive a corresponding RF electrical current from the antenna array. The circuitry includes a converter for generating DC current from the RF electrical current, and includes at least one component that reflects part of the RF current back towards the antenna array. This converts the reflected portion of the RF electrical current into a retransmitted RF electromagnetic beam having the same frequency as the RF electromagnetic power beam, and is directed back towards the transmitter. The receiver monitors the reflected RF current, and transmits a proportional signal back to a controller. The controller reduces the transmitted power beam if its interference with the retransmitted beam would generate a field intensity above a safe level.

Abstract: New systems for the wireless recharging of the batteries of game controllers, without the need for placing the game controller on a dedicated charging device such as an inductively coupled charging pad or its charging docking station. Wireless charging can continue even when the gaming controllers are being moved, when in use during the gaming session, and certainly when the controller is left by the user in some random location in the area in which the system is installed. A transmitter beams optical power, such as a laser beam, to an optical power receiver located on the controller itself, which, using a photovoltaic cell and an appropriate voltage converter, converts the optical beam power to a current for charging the battery. A beam aiming mechanism, such as a scanning mirror, is provided to ensure correct tracking of the game controller, according to the outputs of a beam tracking application.

Abstract: A system for safe transmission of an RF electromagnetic power beam to a receiver for conversion into electric power. The receiver has an antenna array for receiving the RF beam and electrical circuitry to receive a corresponding RF electrical current from the antenna array. The circuitry includes a converter for generating DC current from the RF electrical current, and includes at least one component that reflects part of the RF current back towards the antenna array. This converts the reflected portion of the RF electrical current into a retransmitted RF electromagnetic beam having the same frequency as the RF electromagnetic power beam, and is directed back towards the transmitter. The receiver monitors the reflected RF current, and transmits a proportional signal back to a controller. The controller reduces the transmitted power beam if its interference with the retransmitted beam would generate a field intensity above a safe level.