System for Managing Wireless Inductive Charging of Mobile Electronic Devices within the Interior of a Vehicle Having Engine Stop-Start Capability and Mat for Use Therein

Abstract

A system for managing wireless inductive charging of mobile electronic devices within the interior of a vehicle having engine stop-start capability and a mat for use in the system are provided. The system includes a wireless inductive charger including a power transmitter coil configured to transmit power by inductive coupling and having a charging area for charging a mobile electronic device located in the charging area. A detection circuit includes an inductive proximity sensor to detect foreign objects that disturb power transmission in the charging area and to provide a signal indicating detection of a foreign object in the charging area. A vehicle controller includes control logic to command electrical power shut off to the charger based on the signal and to allow the charger to continue to charge the device during a period of time when the engine is temporarily turned off.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.