Ford Explorer: Accessory Charging / Description and Operation - Wireless Accessory Charging Module (WACM) - System Operation and Component Description

System Operation

System Diagram

Network Message Chart

  APIM Module Network Input Messages

  WACM Module Network Input Messages

System Logic

The WACM directly sends a charge status message over the HS-CAN3 to the APIM. The APIM receives a status signal from the WACM and displays the following status messages in the FCIM: ChargeNotInProgress, ChargeInProgress, Metal ObjectDetected.

Component Description

Body Control Module (BCM)

The BCM provides the WACM with signals to determine when to enable charging. For example, Ignition_Status and Delay Accy are used to enable wireless charging as a controller of the charge request. Another function of the BCM is to tell the WACM when an interior key fob search is about to take place. The BCM utilizes a Field-Effect Transistor (FET) to short the line the WACM receives from the BCM to vehicle battery. When this occurs, the WACM disables the charging function to make sure it does not interfere with key fob searches.

Wireless Accessory Charging Module (WACM)

The WACM is a 5 watt wireless power transmitter used to inductively charge a single Qi (chee) compatible mobile device. Some devices feature built-in wireless charging capability, while other devices require a separate compatible case or back cover to support wireless charging. A list of compatible devices can be found at https://owner.ford.com/WirelessPhoneCharging. If a customer's device is not on the list, they should check with their phone manufacturer to determine if it supports wireless charging. Not all phones are compatible with wireless charging.

The WACM is powered at all times, using the vehicle’s battery. The WACM receives signals from the BCM ( CAN signals and a hardwire) to indicate when an interior key search is performed, which the WACM responds by disabling charge briefly, and resuming charge after the event ends. The hardwire is a controlled FET that shorts to battery before and during the key search.

The WACM also receives signals from the radio, so it knows when to shift frequency to avoid interfering with the AM radio.

The WACM sends signals to sync to display charging status updates such as wireless charger active and foreign/metal object detected, to the user.

The WACM features foreign object detection that detects when foreign objects (metals and non-metals) are placed between the device and the charging surface. When this is detected, the FCIM displays a message until the condition is corrected. For additional tips on how to effectively use the wireless charger, refer to https://owner.ford.com/WirelessPhoneCharging.