Wireless power transmitter module and controller

Abstract

A method is provided for operating at least one transmitter module of a wireless power transfer system. Each transmitter module comprises a plurality of transmitter elements arranged in a plurality of offset layers, each having one transmitter element per layer. The method includes detecting a receiver in at least one transmitter element of the transmitter module. The method further includes, in response to the detection, generating a power signal for transferring power from a first transmitter element of the transmitter module to the detected receiver. The method further includes keeping a second transmitter element of the transmitter module inactive during the transfer. Controllers and further methods are also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 460,950, filed on April 21, 2023, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to wireless power transfer, and more particularly, to a transmitter module of a wireless power transfer system, a receiver of the system, and methods of operating the module, the receiver, and the system.

Background Art

[0003] Wireless power transfer systems such as wireless charging have become an increasingly important technology for enabling next - generation devices. The potential benefits and advantages provided by this technology are evident from the increasing number of manufacturers and enterprises investing in this technology. Various wireless power transfer systems are known. A typical wireless power transfer system includes a power source electrically connected to a wireless power transmitter and a wireless power receiver electrically connected to a load.

[0004] In a magnetic induction system, the transmitter has a transmitter coil with a certain inductance for transferring electrical energy from the power source to the receiver, and the receiver has a receiver coil with a certain inductance. Power transfer occurs through the coupling of the magnetic fields between the coils or inductors of the transmitter and the receiver. The range of these magnetic induction systems is limited, and for an efficient wireless system, i.e., for a coupling coefficient greater than 0.5 and optimal alignment for efficient power transfer, the coils or inductors of the transmitter and the receiver must be closely coupled.

[0005] There are also resonant magnetic systems in which power is transmitted through the coupling of magnetic fields between the coils or inductors of the transmitter and receiver. Even if the inductors of the transmitter and receiver are loosely coupled, i.e., the coupling coefficient is less than 0.5, power can still be transmitted. However, in a resonant magnetic system, the inductors are resonated using at least one capacitor. Furthermore, in a resonant magnetic system, the transmitter and receiver self-resonate. The range of power transmission in resonant magnetic systems is extended compared to magnetic induction systems, and alignment problems can be partially addressed. Electromagnetic energy is generated in both magnetic induction and resonant magnetic systems, but the majority of power transmission occurs via magnetic fields. Power is rarely transmitted via electric field coupling or resonant electric field coupling.

[0006] In a capacitive system, the transmitter and receiver have capacitive electrodes. Power transfer occurs through electric field coupling between the capacitive electrodes of the transmitter and receiver. Similar to resonant magnetic systems, there are resonant electrical systems in which the capacitive electrodes of the transmitter and receiver resonate using at least one inductor. The inductor may be a coil. In a resonant electrical system, the transmitter and receiver self-resonate. Resonant electrical systems have an extended range of power transfer compared to electric field systems, and alignment problems are at least partially addressed. Electromagnetic energy is generated in both electric field and resonant electrical systems, but the majority of power transfer occurs via electric fields. Power is rarely transferred via magnetic induction or resonant magnetic induction.

[0007] Several wireless power transfer systems are known, but improvements and / or alternatives are desired.

[0008] This background art serves only to set the scene so that those skilled in the art may better understand the following description. Therefore, none of the above discussions should necessarily be taken as an acknowledgment that they are part of the current art or common knowledge. One or more aspects / embodiments of the present invention may or may not address one or more of the problems of the background art. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 434543 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 899165 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 9653948B2 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 9979206B2 [Patent Document 5] U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 193539 [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent No. 11139690B2 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] As described above, in some wireless power transfer systems, the receiver element of the receiver aligns with the corresponding transmitter element of the transmitter. Power is then extracted from the transmitter and / or transferred from the transmitter to the receiver by the receiver via magnetic and / or electric field coupling between the elements. The efficiency of this power transfer can be affected by the isolation distance and misalignment between the elements. The resonant magnetic and electrical systems described can mitigate the alignment problem at least partially, but efficiency may still not be maximized.

[0011] In addition, the movement of the transmitter or receiver can increase misalignment between elements. This can be addressed by adding elements, such as transmitter elements, and then transferring power between the most aligned elements. However, simply adding transmitter elements may not provide sufficient spatial freedom. Furthermore, selecting appropriate transmitter elements for power transfer and determining optimized operating parameters can be challenging. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] Accordingly, in one embodiment, a transmitter module is provided comprising a plurality of transmitter elements. The transmitter elements are arranged in a plurality of offset layers that are laterally offset in the z-axis direction, for example, with one transmitter element in each layer. In other words, the transmitter module includes a multilayer transmitter element array comprising a plurality of stacked and staggered transmitter elements.

[0013] Each transmitter element extends along the x and y axes, i.e., in the length and width directions. Layers may be offset along the z-axis. Transmitter elements of adjacent layers may be stacked. In other words, the elements of the layers are not aligned along the z-axis.

[0014] Each transmitter element can take the form of an electrode and / or a coil. The element may resonate through a corresponding inductor (induction coil) or capacitor. The coil may comprise an inductor or an induction coil. The electrode may be a capacitive electrode. The coil may transmit power via magnetic field coupling, while the electrode may transmit power via electric field coupling. The coupling may be resonant field coupling as described.

[0015] The transmitter elements of the transmitter module may be stacked. At least a portion of one transmitter element in the first layer may overlap with or be positioned on top of a portion of another transmitter element in the second layer. The second layer may be offset laterally in the z-axis direction.

[0016] Multiple layers of transmitter elements in a transmitter module may form parallel planes. The plane formed by the transmitter elements in the first layer may be parallel to the plane formed by the transmitter elements in the second layer.

[0017] As the receiver moves along the transmitter module (parallel to the plane of the transmitter module) in the x-direction or longitudinal direction, the receiver (i.e., the receiver element of the receiver) may align with the first transmitter element in the first layer of the transmitter module, then with the second transmitter element in the second layer of the transmitter module, then with the third transmitter element in the third layer of the transmitter module, and so on.

[0018] Although this movement is described in terms of the x-direction, the movement may also be in the y-direction, or in both x and y directions, i.e., in two dimensions.

[0019] In addition, although a single transmitter module is described, there may be multiple adjacent transmitter modules. Thus, the receiver may align with the first transmitter element in the first layer of the first transmitter module, then with the second transmitter element in the second layer of the first transmitter module, then with the third transmitter element in the first layer of the second transmitter module, and then with the fourth transmitter element of the second transmitter module.

[0020] As will be described later, the transmitter module may operate such that a single transmitter element transmits power to the receiver (i.e., the receiver element of the receiver), while other transmitter elements remain inactive. The transmitter element transmits power by generating a field such that the receiver element is magnetically or electrically coupled and extracts power from the field. Since only a single transmitter element actively generates a field, the receiver is not exposed to multiple fields from the module's transmitter elements. Such multiple fields may form a composite field that is not optimal for the receiver, thereby reducing the power transfer efficiency between the transmitter element and the receiver.

[0021] To operate only a single transmitter element, communication between various transmitter elements of a transmitter module and communication between a transmitter element and a receiver may be required as described below.

[0022] Thus, in one aspect, a method of operating at least one transmitter module of a wireless power transfer system is provided, each transmitter module comprising a plurality of transmitter elements arranged in a plurality of offset layers each having one transmitter element per layer, the method comprising: detecting a receiver at at least one transmitter element of the transmitter module; generating a power signal for transmitting power from the first transmitter element of the transmitter module to the detected receiver in response to the detection; while transmitting, keeping a second transmitter element of the transmitter module inactive and including.

[0023] As described, the layers may be laterally offset in the z-axis direction. Each transmitter element may extend in the x-axis and y-axis directions.

[0024] In this context, inactive may refer to a second transmitter element that is not generating a field for transmitting power to a receiver.

[0025] Keeping the second transmitter element inactive may include controlling a switching element to supply a signal to the first transmitter element and not to the second transmitter element.

[0026] Keeping the second transmitter element inactive may include communicating a signal from the first transmitter to the second transmitter element. This signal may cause the second transmitter element to be disconnected from the power source. The power source may be connected to the first transmitter element.

[0027] The receiver may comprise a receiver element. The receiver may further comprise a load electrically connected to the receiver element. The receiver element may comprise a coil and / or capacitive electrodes. The receiver element may extract power from the field generated by the first transmitter element via electric field coupling and / or magnetic field coupling.

[0028] The detection step may include detecting the receiver based on a response signal from the receiver. The response signal may be communicated from the receiver to the transmitter module. The response module may communicate to one or all of the transmitter elements of the module.

[0029] The response signal may include receiver parameters. The response signal may include a rectified signal in the receiver. The rectified signal may include rectified power extracted from the field generated by the first transmitter element. The rectified signal may include a rectified voltage in the receiver.

[0030] The method may further include the step of detecting a response signal at each transmitter element of the transmitter module. The receiver may communicate the response signals to each transmitter element of the transmitter module.

[0031] The method may further include a step of comparing the detected response signals. The comparison may be performed by the controller of the transmitter module. The controller may identify the best parameter, for example, the maximum rectified voltage. The maximum rectified voltage may indicate that the power transfer between the receiver and the first transmitter element is optimized.

[0032] The method may further include the step of selecting a first transmitter element based on comparison. The selected first transmitter element may be the element that receives the maximum rectified voltage, or response signal, such as the rectified voltage, from the receiver for the longest uninterrupted period.

[0033] The method may further include the step of detecting a response signal from a receiver for a threshold time period. For example, a transmitter element may detect a response signal for a period of 5 seconds. A first transmitter may be selected based on the detection of a response signal for a threshold time period. The response signal may be transmitted by a receiver. In particular, the response signal may be transmitted or broadcast by a receiver.

[0034] The receiver may be moving and may be continuously transmitting response signals during this movement. Each transmitter element of the transmitter module can receive response signals. However, based on its relative position to the moving receiver, each transmitter element may only receive response signals for a certain time period. This time period may be shorter than a threshold time period. When the receiver stops moving, the first transmitter element may receive response signals for a time period that exceeds or satisfies the threshold time period. Based on this, the first transmitter element may be selected to transfer power to the receiver. Other transmitter elements of the transmitter module, such as a second transmitter module, may be deactivated or not transfer power to the receiver. In this way, only one transmitter module may transfer power to the receiver at a time. This can eliminate the risk of unoptimized power transfer, such as a composite generated field that could lead to reduced power transfer efficiency between the transmitter elements and the receiver.

[0035] The method may further include the step of communicating control signals between transmitter elements of a transmitter module. The control signals may instruct a transmitter element, for example, a second transmitter element, to deactivate, i.e., remain inactive, while power is being transferred with the first transmitter element. For example, the method may include the step of selecting a first transmitter element. The controller of the first transmitter element or module may then communicate control signals to other elements of the module, for example, a second transmitter element. The control signals prevent the other elements from becoming active while the first transmitter element is transferring power to the receiver.

[0036] Communication may be performed by a communication module or controller of the transmitter module. Control signals may be communicated via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any other communication protocol or standard. Control signals may also be communicated via the communication described in the applicant's own U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 434543, the relevant portion of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0037] The method may further include the step of communicating a response signal to a second transmitter module. The communication may be performed by a communication module or controller of the transmitter module. The response signal may be communicated via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any other communication protocol or standard. The response signal may also be communicated via the communication described in the applicant's own U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 434543, the relevant portion of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0038] As described, it may not be desirable for multiple transmitter elements to transmit power to a single receiver (receiver element). By communicating a response signal to the second transmitter module, the transmitter elements of the second transmitter module may remain inactive, i.e., deactivated, during power transmission. This ensures that no composite field exists. Only specific transmitter elements of the second transmitter module can remain inactive. For example, transmitter elements coplanar with the first transmitter element, i.e., transmitter elements in the same layer or z-axis plane as the first transmitter element, may remain active. Transmitter elements forming a parallel plane, i.e., transmitter elements in the same layer as the second transmitter element, may remain inactive. Transmitter elements overlapping with the first transmitter element (which is actively powered) are deactivated or remain inactive. In other words, transmitter elements in the same lateral layer as the first transmitter element transmit power between transmitter modules, but transmitter elements in different lateral layers between transmitter modules do not transmit power.

[0039] When a receiver (receiver element) moves, it powers adjacent transmitter elements of the first transmitter module, and deactivates previously powered transmitter elements. Similarly, transmitter elements in the same lateral layer as the currently powered adjacent transmitter element of the second transmitter module are activated, and previously powered transmitter elements of the second transmitter module are deactivated.

[0040] The method may further include the step of monitoring a signal related to power transfer between a first transmitter element and a detected receiver, such as a receiver element. The signal may include a generated power signal. The signal may include a rectified voltage received from the receiver. The signal may include a signal generated by the receiver. For example, a signal generated by the receiver may include a heartbeat signal indicating ongoing power transfer from the first transmitter element to the receiver, such as a receiver element.

[0041] The method may further include a step of tuning the first transmitter element. The tuning step may include a step of actively tuning the first transmitter element during operation. The tuning step may include a step of tuning the first transmitter element after detecting a receiver but before generating a power signal. The tuning step may include a step of changing one or more operating parameters of the transmitter element in order to optimize or maximize the power transfer efficiency between the first transmitter element and the receiver.

[0042] The tuning step may include tuning the first transmitter element based on a response signal. The response signal may include a rectified voltage at the receiver. The tuning step may include tuning the first transmitter element based on a rectified voltage at the receiver.

[0043] The tuning step may include setting the impedance of the first transmitter element. The impedance may determine the power transfer efficiency between the first transmitter element and the receiver. Therefore, by setting the impedance, the power transfer efficiency between the first transmitter element and the receiver can be optimized or maximized.

[0044] The impedance may include the average of the impedance when the receiver is aligned with the first transmitter element and the impedance when the receiver is not aligned with the first transmitter element. For example, a receiver can be aligned when the receiver element is aligned with the first transmitter element on the z-axis. A receiver can be aligned when the receiver element of the receiver completely overlaps with the first transmitter element on the z-axis. In particular, the receiver element and the first transmitter element may each include a coil, such as an inductor. The windings of both coils may completely overlap on the z-axis.

[0045] Misalignment may include maximum misalignment with the first transmitter element. The first transmitter element may be at maximum misalignment when a receiver, such as a receiver element, is aligned with the second transmitter element on the z-axis. The receiver may be misaligned when the receiver element of the receiver completely overlaps with the second transmitter element on the z-axis. In particular, the receiver element and the second transmitter element may each include a coil, such as an inductor. The windings of both coils may completely overlap on the z-axis.

[0046] The method may further include the step of transmitting or broadcasting a search signal from at least one transmitter element of the transmitter module. The search signal may be low power, i.e., lower than the power transfer occurring between the first transmitter element and the receiver. The search signal may also be a pulse signal. At least one transmitter element may transmit a low power pulse.

[0047] When the receiver is within range to receive a low-power pulse from at least one transmitter element, the receiver can transmit a response signal to the transmitter element. Thus, the method may further include the step of receiving a response signal from the receiver in response to a search signal transmitted by at least one transmitter element of the transmitter module. The response signal then causes the transmitter element to initiate power transfer between the transmitter element and the receiver. In this way, the receiver can select which transmitter element to initiate power transfer with based on the received low-power pulse.

[0048] Upon receiving a low-power pulse, the receiver may transition from a low-power mode or no-power mode (where no power is used) to a power transfer mode (where the receiver sends a response signal to the transmitter element in response to the pulse reception, and then begins transferring power from the transmitter element). The low-power pulse may supply the receiver with sufficient power to send the response signal to the transmitter element.

[0049] Similarly, upon receiving a response signal from the receiver, the transmitter element may transition from a low-power mode or search mode, in which the transmitter element transmits a search signal and operates in a low-power mode, to a power transfer mode, in which the transmitter element increases its power to transfer power to the receiver after receiving a response signal from the receiver.

[0050] The method may further include the step of transmitting a control signal from the first transmitter element to the second transmitter element in response to the first transmitter element receiving a response signal from the receiver. The control signal may control the operation of the second transmitter element. The control signal may control the operation of all other transmitter elements in the module. The control signal may cause the second transmitter element to remain inactive during power transfer between the receiver and the first transmitter element. The control signal may instruct the second transmitter element not to transmit any signals, i.e., not to transmit search signals or power transfer signals. The control signal may control the second transmitter element to be deactivated, i.e., not to receive power from the power source.

[0051] Upon receiving a response signal from one transmitter element, for example, a first transmitter element, that transmitter element may communicate with other transmitter elements in the transmitter module and remain inactive while transmitting. Furthermore, upon receiving a response signal, the transmitter element may instruct other transmitter elements in the module to become inactive, which may include no longer transmitting search signals.

[0052] The method may further include the step of alternately transmitting or broadcasting a search signal from multiple transmitter elements of a transmitter module. The transmissions may be alternate, with only one transmitter element transmitting the search signal at a time, such as the first transmitter element transmitting, then the second transmitter element transmitting, then the third transmitter element transmitting, and so on.

[0053] The step of transmitting or broadcasting a search signal may include the step of radiating the search signal in all directions in the vicinity of the transmitter element.

[0054] The method may further include the step of detecting a receiver based on a transmitted search signal. The receiver may transmit a response signal based on the reception of the transmitted search signal. Reception of the response signal by one of the transmitter elements may be used to detect the receiver. In particular, it may be used to detect that the receiver is in proximity to a specific transmitter element that is receiving the response signal.

[0055] The method may further include the step of receiving a completion signal from the receiver. The completion signal may indicate that the receiver has been sufficiently charged by the first transmitter element. The completion signal may indicate that no further power will be transmitted from the first transmitter element. The completion signal may include the rectified voltage of the receiver. The value of the rectified voltage may indicate that sufficient power has been transmitted to the receiver. The completion signal may include a control signal for controlling the operation of the first transmitter element.

[0056] The method may further include a step of modifying the power signal based on the completion signal. The first transmitter element may enter trickle charging mode after receiving the completion signal. In other words, the first transmitter element can maintain the receiver's power level but does not operate at full power, i.e., does not transmit a full power signal.

[0057] The method may further include the step of receiving a ramp-up signal from a receiver. The ramp-up signal may instruct or control a first transmitter element to increase the power transmitted to the receiver. Thus, the power transmitted from the first transmitter element to the receiver may increase in stages over time. Initially, the power signal may be low, but upon receiving the ramp-up signal, the power signal may increase so that power is transmitted to the receiver faster or at a higher rate.

[0058] The method may further include the step of receiving a ramp-down signal from a receiver. The ramp-down signal may instruct or control a first transmitter element to reduce the power transmitted to the receiver.

[0059] The method may further include a step indicating the state of the transmitter. The method may further include a step indicating the state of the transmitter elements. The states may include a search state when at least one transmitter element is transmitting a search signal, a power transfer state when a first transmitter element is transferring power to a receiver, an inactive state when a transmitter element is not active, i.e., not transmitting any power signal, or an error state when one or more transmitter elements are not functioning correctly.

[0060] Indicating a status may include providing visual, auditory, or tactile cues. For example, indicating a status may include changing the color of an indicator on the transmitter module housing. The indicator may include lights, LEDs, OLEDs, etc.

[0061] In another embodiment, a controller adapted to perform the described method is provided. The controller may form part of the transmitter module or be located outside the transmitter module. The controller may include a processor and memory containing computer-readable code.

[0062] In another embodiment, a transmitter module for a wireless power transfer system is provided, comprising a plurality of transmitter elements arranged in a plurality of offset layers, each having one transmitter element per layer, and each transmitter element being adapted to generate a field for transferring power to a receiver, and the transmitter module, Detecting a receiver in at least one transmitter element of the transmitter module, In response to detection, a power signal is generated from the first transmitter element of the transmitter module to transmit power to the detected receiver, During transmission, the second transmitter element of the transmitter module is kept inactive. It further includes a controller adapted for this purpose.

[0063] The controller may be adapted to perform any of the steps in the method described.

[0064] The controller may be further adapted to control at least one of several transmitter elements in order to transmit a search signal.

[0065] The search signal may be low power, i.e., lower than the power transfer occurring between the first transmitter element and the receiver. The search signal may also be a pulse signal. The controller may be adapted to control at least one transmitter element to transmit low-power pulses.

[0066] When the receiver is within range to receive a low-power pulse from at least one transmitter element, the receiver can send a response signal to the transmitter element. Thus, the controller may be further adapted to detect the response signal from the receiver in response to the search signal. The response signal then allows the controller to control the transmitter element to initiate power transfer between the transmitter element and the receiver. In this way, the receiver can select which transmitter element to initiate power transfer with based on the received low-power pulse.

[0067] Upon receiving a response signal from the receiver, the controller may control the transmitter element to transition from a low-power mode or search mode, in which the transmitter element transmits a search signal and operates in a low-power mode, to a power transfer mode, in which the transmitter element increases its power to transfer power to the receiver after receiving a response signal from the receiver.

[0068] The controller may be further adapted to transmit a control signal from the first transmitter element to the second transmitter element in response to the first transmitter element receiving a response signal from the receiver, for example, via the transmitter module's communication module. The control signal may control the operation of the second transmitter element. The control signal may control the operation of all other transmitter elements in the module. The control signal may keep the second transmitter element inactive during power transfer between the receiver and the first transmitter element. The control signal may instruct the second transmitter element not to transmit any signals, i.e., not to transmit search signals or power transfer signals. The control signal may control the second transmitter element to deactivate, i.e., not to receive power from the power source.

[0069] Upon receiving a response signal from one transmitter element, for example, a first transmitter element, the controller may communicate with other transmitter elements within the transmitter module, for example, via a communication module, and remain inactive while transmitting. Furthermore, upon receiving a response signal, a transmitter element may instruct other transmitter elements in the module to become inactive, which may include no longer transmitting search signals.

[0070] The controller may be further adapted to alternately control multiple transmitter elements to transmit a search signal. The transmitter elements may alternately transmit the search signal. The controller can cause the first transmitter element of the module to transmit the search signal, then the second transmitter element of the module, then the third transmitter element of the module, and so on, so that only one transmitter element transmits the search signal at a time.

[0071] The controller can detect the receiver based on the reception of a response signal from the receiver.

[0072] The controller may be further adapted to receive response signals from the receiver in at least one of the multiple transmitter elements of the transmitter module. The controller may be further adapted to detect response signals transmitted by the receiver.

[0073] The controller may be further adapted to compare detected response signals. Comparing detected response signals may involve determining the highest response signal. The response signals may include the rectified voltage of the receiver. The rectified voltage may correspond to the power extracted from the search signal transmitted by each transmitter element. Therefore, if the receiver was far from each transmitter element when the search signal was received, one rectified voltage may be lower than another. The highest rectified voltage may be the rectified voltage corresponding to the search signal from the transmitter element closest to or best aligned with the receiver.

[0074] The controller may be further adapted to select a first transmitter element based on comparison. The first transmitter element may be selected based on the reception of the highest search signal, for example, the highest rectified voltage. The first transmitter element may be selected based on the reception of the response signal for the longest time period. The first transmitter element may be selected based on the reception of the response signal for a threshold time period. Receiving the response signal for the longest or threshold time period may indicate that the receiver is best aligned with the first transmitter element. This can maximize power transfer or power transfer efficiency between the first transmitter element and the receiver.

[0075] The controller may be further adapted to set the impedance of the first transmitter element. Setting the impedance may include setting an impedance value. The impedance may include the coupling impedance between the first transmitter element and the receiver. The set coupling impedance can optimize the power or power transfer efficiency transmitted between the first transmitter element and the receiver.

[0076] The impedance may be the average of the impedance when the receiver is aligned with the first transmitter element and the impedance when the receiver is not aligned with the first transmitter element. For example, a receiver can be aligned when the receiver element is aligned with the first transmitter element on the z-axis. A receiver can be aligned when the receiver element of the receiver completely overlaps with the first transmitter element on the z-axis. In particular, the receiver element and the first transmitter element may each include a coil, such as an inductor. The windings of both coils may completely overlap on the z-axis.

[0077] Misalignment may include maximum misalignment with the first transmitter element. The first transmitter element may be at maximum misalignment when a receiver, such as a receiver element, is aligned with the second transmitter element on the z-axis. The receiver may be misaligned when the receiver element of the receiver completely overlaps with the second transmitter element on the z-axis. In particular, the receiver element and the second transmitter element may each include a coil, such as an inductor. The windings of both coils may completely overlap on the z-axis.

[0078] The controller may be further adapted to detect a completion signal from the receiver. The controller may be further adapted to modify the power signal based on the completion signal from the receiver. The completion signal may indicate that the receiver has been sufficiently charged by the first transmitter element. The completion signal may indicate that no further power will be transmitted from the first transmitter element. The completion signal may include the rectified voltage of the receiver. The value of the rectified voltage may indicate that sufficient power has been transmitted to the receiver. The completion signal may include a control signal for controlling the operation of the first transmitter element.

[0079] The controller may be further adapted to modify the power signal based on the completion signal. After receiving the completion signal, the controller may control the first transmitter element to enter trickle charging mode. In other words, the first transmitter element can maintain the receiver's power level but does not operate at full power, i.e., does not transmit a full power signal.

[0080] The controller may be further adapted to detect a ramp-up signal from the receiver. The ramp-up signal allows the controller to control the first transmitter element to increase the power transmitted to the receiver. Thus, the power transmitted from the first transmitter element to the receiver may increase gradually over time. Initially, the power signal may be low, but upon receiving the ramp-up signal, the power signal may increase so that power is transmitted to the receiver faster or at a higher rate.

[0081] The controller may be further adapted to detect a ramp-down signal from the receiver. The ramp-down signal allows the controller to control the first transmitter element to reduce the power transmitted to the receiver.

[0082] The transmitter module may be electrically connected to a DC / DC converter. The DC / DC converter receives the input power signal and converts the power signal to a level suitable for the transmitter module, for example, by reducing the voltage level of the power signal. The transmitter module may include a DC / DC converter.

[0083] The transmitter module may be electrically connected to a power supply. The transmitter module may include a power supply. The power supply may be electrically connected to a DC / DC converter.

[0084] Each transmitter element within the module may be connected to the module's power supply, DC / DC converter, or other electrical components.

[0085] The transmitter elements of a module may be daisy-chained, meaning they are electrically connected to other transmitter elements in other transmitter modules. The daisy-chain of transmitter elements may be electrically connected to a single power supply or a DC / DC converter.

[0086] The transmitter elements of the modules may be daisy-chained between modules. Transmitter elements in the first layer of one module may be electrically connected to transmitter elements in the first layer of a second module, and so on. The layers of the two modules may be in the transverse (z-axis) plane.

[0087] The controller may be further adapted to indicate the state of the transmitters. The controller may be further adapted to indicate the state of the transmitter elements. The states may include a search state when at least one transmitter element is transmitting a search signal, a power transfer state when a first transmitter element is transferring power to the receiver, an inactive state when a transmitter element is not active, i.e., not transmitting any power signal, or an error state when one or more transmitter elements are not functioning correctly.

[0088] The controller may be further adapted to provide visual, auditory, or tactile cues. For example, this could include changing the color of an indicator on the transmitter module housing. The indicator could include lights, LEDs, OLEDs, etc.

[0089] In another embodiment, a method is provided for tuning or operating one transmitter element among a plurality of transmitter elements of a transmitter module of a wireless power transfer system, wherein the plurality of transmitter elements are arranged in a plurality of offset layers, each having one transmitter element per layer, When the receiver is in an aligned position with the transmitter element, the steps include detecting or determining the parameters of the transmitter element of the transmitter module, When the receiver is in a misaligned position with the transmitter element, the steps include detecting or determining the parameters of the transmitter element, The steps include tuning the transmitter elements based on the determined parameters and Includes.

[0090] The receiver may include receiver elements. When the receiver elements are in an aligned or misaligned position relative to the transmitter elements, the receiver may be in an aligned or misaligned position.

[0091] For example, a receiver may be in an aligned position when a receiver element is aligned with a transmitter element along the z-axis. A receiver may be aligned when its receiver element completely overlaps with the transmitter element along the z-axis. In particular, both the receiver element and the transmitter element may include a coil such as an inductor. The windings of both coils may completely overlap along the z-axis.

[0092] A receiver may be in a misaligned position when it is in its most misaligned position. For example, a receiver, such as a receiver element, may be in its most misaligned position when it is aligned on the z-axis with a second transmitter element of a transmitter element, for example, a transmitter element in a different layer from the transmitter element. A receiver may be misaligned when the receiver element of a receiver completely overlaps with a second transmitter element on the z-axis. In particular, the receiver element and the second transmitter element may each include a coil, such as an inductor. The windings of both coils may completely overlap on the z-axis.

[0093] The receiver can transmit power to the transmitter elements when it is in an aligned position or an unaligned position.

[0094] Tuning a transmitter element may involve setting the impedance of the transmitter element. Impedance may include the operating impedance of the transmitter element. Operating impedance may be the impedance on which the transmitter element operates to transmit power to the receiver. Operating impedance may be set based on a specific alignment and / or isolation distance between the transmitter element and the receiver.

[0095] The operating impedance may include the average of the determined parameters, i.e., the average of the parameters when the receiver is in the aligned position and the parameters when the receiver is in the misaligned position.

[0096] The parameters may include the impedance of the transmitter elements. The impedance may also include the coupling impedance between the transmitter elements and the receiver.

[0097] The operating impedance may include the average of the determined coupling impedances between the transmitter element and the receiver in aligned and misaligned positions. Therefore, the coupling impedance may include the average coupling impedance. By setting the operating impedance to the average coupling impedance, power transfer efficiency can be improved over a wider range of receiver positions relative to the transmitter element. In other words, while power transfer efficiency may be lower when the receiver is precisely aligned with the transmitter element, it may be more efficient on average over a range of lateral positions relative to the transmitter element.

[0098] In another embodiment, a method is provided for operating a receiver of a wireless power transfer system, wherein the receiver is configured to receive power from transmitter elements of a transmitter module of the wireless power transfer system, and the transmitter module comprises a plurality of transmitter elements arranged in a plurality of offset layers, each having one transmitter element per layer, and the method is The steps include transmitting a signal to at least one of the multiple transmitter elements of a transmitter module, Steps to extract power from a field generated by one of several transmitter elements selected based on a signal. This includes.

[0099] The receiver may draw power only from the field generated by the transmitter element and not from any other transmitter elements in the transmitter module. Other transmitter elements may be inactive while power is being transferred from the transmitter element to the receiver.

[0100] The receiver may draw power from other transmitter elements in other transmitter modules. For example, the receiver may draw power from a first transmitter in a first layer of a first transmitter module and from a second transmitter in a second layer of a second transmitter module. The first and second layers may be in the same transverse plane, i.e., the same z-plane.

[0101] Each transmitter, i.e., transmitter element, may extend in the x-axis and y-axis directions. In other words, each transmitter element may have primary dimensions (length and width) that extend in the x-axis and y-axis directions. The first transmitter element of the first transmitter module and the second transmitter element of the second transmitter module may be in the same lateral plane, i.e., the same z-plane.

[0102] The method may further include the step of transmitting a signal to multiple transmitter elements. Only some transmitter elements may receive the signal. The signal may include a response signal. The response signal may be transmitted in response to receiving a search signal from one or more transmitter elements. The signal may include a rectified voltage of a receiver.

[0103] The method may further include the step of transmitting a signal in response to receiving a search signal from at least one of the transmitter elements. The method may further include the step of powering a receiver to transmit a response signal using the received search signal.

[0104] The rectified signal may indicate the proximity of the receiver to one of several transmitter elements.

[0105] The method may further include the step of transmitting signals to a second plurality of transmitter elements of a second transmitter module.

[0106] The method may further include the step of comparing power extracted from a first field generated by a first transmitter element among a plurality of transmitter elements with power extracted from a second field generated by a second transmitter element among a plurality of transmitter elements. The comparison step may include the step of determining greater or higher power. Power may include power levels, voltage levels, or rectified voltage levels at the receiver. The comparison step may include the step of determining power exceeding a threshold level.

[0107] The method may further include a step of extracting power from a first field generated by a first transmitter element based on a comparison. The method may further include a step of extracting power only from a first field generated by a first transmitter element. Other transmitter elements may generate fields, but little to no power may be extracted from those fields. The method may further include a step of extracting power only from a field generated by a first transmitter element based on whether the power exceeds a threshold level or has a maximum value.

[0108] The method may further include the step of sending a signal from the receiver to a second transmitter element of the transmitter module in order to deactivate or remain deactivated during power transfer from a field generated by the first transmitter element.

[0109] The method may further include the step of rectifying a received power signal from a transmitter element. The method may further include the step of supplying power to a load using the power extracted from the field generated by the transmitter element.

[0110] In another embodiment, a receiver for a wireless power transfer system is provided, the receiver is configured to receive power from transmitter elements of a transmitter module of the wireless power transfer system, the transmitter module comprises a plurality of transmitter elements arranged in a plurality of offset layers, each having one transmitter element per layer, the receiver comprises a receiver element for extracting power from a field generated by the transmitter elements, the receiver Transmitting a signal to at least one of the multiple transmitter elements of a transmitter module, Controlling a receiver element to extract power from a field generated by one of several transmitter elements selected based on a signal. It further includes a controller adapted for this purpose.

[0111] The receiver may draw power only from the field generated by the transmitter element and not from any other transmitter elements in the transmitter module. Other transmitter elements may be inactive while power is being transferred from the transmitter element to the receiver.

[0112] The receiver may draw power from other transmitter elements in other transmitter modules. For example, the receiver may draw power from a first transmitter in a first layer of a first transmitter module and from a second transmitter in a second layer of a second transmitter module. The first and second layers may be in the same transverse plane, i.e., the same z-plane. The receiver may draw power from the first and second transmitters simultaneously.

[0113] The controller may be further configured to transmit signals to multiple transmitter elements. Only some transmitter elements may receive the signals. The signals may include response signals. Response signals may be transmitted in response to receiving a search signal from one or more transmitter elements. The signals may include rectified voltages from the receiver.

[0114] The controller may be further configured to transmit a signal in response to receiving a search signal from at least one of the transmitter elements. The controller may be further configured to power the receiver to transmit a response signal using the received search signal.

[0115] The controller may be further adapted to transmit signals to a second set of transmitter elements of a second transmitter module.

[0116] The controller may be further configured to compare the power extracted from a first field generated by a first transmitter element among the multiple transmitter elements with the power extracted from a second field generated by a second transmitter element among the multiple transmitter elements. The controller may be further configured to determine greater or higher power. Power may include power levels, voltage levels, or rectified voltage levels at the receiver. The controller may be further configured to determine power exceeding a threshold level.

[0117] The controller may be further configured to extract power from a first field generated by a first transmitter element based on a comparison. The controller may be further configured to extract power only from a first field generated by a first transmitter element. Other transmitter elements may generate fields, but little to no power may be extracted from those fields. The controller may be further configured to extract power only from a field generated by a first transmitter element based on whether the power exceeds a threshold or has a maximum value.

[0118] The controller may be further configured to transmit signals from the receiver via the receiver's communication module. Signals may be transmitted to a second transmitter element of the transmitter module to deactivate or remain deactivated during power transfer from a field generated by the first transmitter element.

[0119] The controller may be further configured to control the receiver's rectifier to rectify the received power signal from the transmitter element. The controller may be further configured to power a load in the receiver using the power extracted from the field generated by the transmitter element. The load may be connected to the receiver element of the receiver.

[0120] The receiver may further include a rectifier for rectifying the extracted power. The receiver may further include a load electrically connected to the receiver element. The rectifier may be electrically connected between the load and the receiver element.

[0121] According to another embodiment, A transmitter module comprising multiple transmitter elements arranged in multiple offset layers, each having one transmitter element per layer, with each transmitter element adapted to generate a field for transmitting power to a receiver, and further comprising a transmitter controller. A wireless power transmission system is provided that includes the following features.

[0122] The system is A receiver configured to receive power from the transmitter element of a transmitter module, comprising a receiver element for extracting power from the field generated by the transmitter element, and a transmitter controller. It can also be equipped with additional features.

[0123] The transmitter controller is, Detecting a receiver in at least one transmitter element of the transmitter module, In response to detection, a power signal is generated from the first transmitter element of the transmitter module to transmit power to the detected receiver, During transmission, the second transmitter element of the transmitter module is kept inactive. It may be adapted to do so.

[0124] The transmitter controller may be further adapted as described.

[0125] The receiver controller is Transmitting a signal to at least one of the multiple transmitter elements of a transmitter module, Controlling a receiver element to extract power from a field generated by one of several transmitter elements selected based on a signal. It may be adapted to do so.

[0126] The receiver controller may be further adapted as described.

[0127] In another embodiment, a non-temporary computer-readable medium is provided on which computer program code is stored, and the computer program code is configured to perform one of the described methods when executed by a processor.

[0128] The controller described may take the form of one or more microcontrollers (MCUs).

[0129] It should be understood that any feature described in relation to one aspect, example, or embodiment may also be used in relation to any other aspect, example, or embodiment of this disclosure. Other advantages of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following drawings and related detailed description.

[0130] Next, the embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0131] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram of a wireless power transmission system. [Figure 2] This is another block diagram of the wireless power transfer system. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram of a wireless power transmission system according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view of a part of a wireless power transmission system according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart of a method for operating a wireless power transmission system according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This is another flowchart of a method for operating a wireless power transmission system according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 7]This is a perspective view of a portion of a wireless power transmission system according to one aspect of the present disclosure, in a misaligned state. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of a portion of a wireless power transmission system according to one aspect of the present disclosure, in an optimal alignment state. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart of a method for tuning a transmitter module according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] This is a graph of the coupling impedance of the transmitter element of a wireless power transmission system according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] This is a graph of the radio frequency (RF) efficiency of power transmission in a wireless power transmission system according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 12a] This is a graph of the coupling impedance of the forward transmitter element of a wireless power transmission system according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 12b] This is a graph of the coupling impedance of the rear transmitter element of a wireless power transmission system according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view of a housing including a transmitter module according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] These are perspective views of multiple housings according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] These are perspective views of multiple housings and receivers according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a plurality of housings and receivers according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0132] The above summary and the detailed descriptions of the specific examples below will be better understood when read in conjunction with the attached drawings. It should be understood that, as used herein, elements or features introduced in the singular form and preceded by the words "a" or "an" do not necessarily preclude the plural form of the element or feature. Furthermore, references to "an example" or "an embodiment" are not intended to be interpreted as precluding the existence of additional examples or embodiments that also incorporate the described elements or features. Furthermore, unless expressly stated otherwise, examples or embodiments that "comprising," "having," or "including" elements or features having a particular characteristic may include additional elements or features that do not possess that characteristic. Also, it should be understood that the terms "comprises," "has," and "includes" mean "includes, but not limited to," and that "comprising," "having," and "including" are equivalent in meaning. Furthermore, it should be understood that similar reference letters are used to refer to the same elements throughout the description and drawings.

[0133] As used herein, the terms “adapted” and “configured” mean that an element, component, or other subject matter is designed and / or intended to perform a given function. Therefore, the use of the terms “adapted” and “configured” should not be interpreted as meaning that a given element, component, or other subject matter is merely “capable of performing” a given function, but rather that the element, component, and / or other subject matter is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, and / or designed for the purpose of performing that function. Furthermore, an element, component, and / or other subject matter described as adapted to perform a particular function may, in addition or alternatively, be described as configured to perform that function, and vice versa, which is also within the scope of this subject matter application. Similarly, subject matter described as configured to perform a particular function may, in addition or alternatively, be described as operable to perform that function.

[0134] When an element is described as "on top of," "attached to," "connected to," "combined with," or "in contact with" another element, it should be understood that this could mean that it is directly on top of, attached to, connected to, combined with, or in contact with another element, or that there may be an intervening element.

[0135] Please understand that the use of the word "exemplary" does not mean a preferred or optimal design or implementation unless otherwise specified, but rather means "as an example" or "one example."

[0136] Referring next to Figure 1, a wireless power transfer system commonly identified by reference numeral 100 is shown. The wireless power transfer system 100 comprises a transmitter 110 having a power supply 112 electrically connected to a transmitting element 116, and a receiver 120 having a receiving element 124 electrically connected to a load 128. Power is transferred from the power supply 112 to the transmitting element 116. The power is then transferred from the transmitting element 116 to the receiving element 124 via resonant or non-resonant electric or magnetic field coupling. The power is then transferred from the receiving element 124 to the load 128. Exemplary wireless power transfer systems 100 include high-frequency inductive wireless power transfer systems, such as those described in the applicant's U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 899165, or resonant capacitive coupled wireless power transfer systems, such as those described in the applicant's U.S. Patent No. 9653948B2, the relevant portions thereof are incorporated herein.

[0137] In the wireless power transmission system 100, power is transmitted from the transmitting element 116 to the receiving element 124.

[0138] Referring now to Figure 2, another embodiment of the wireless power transfer system, generally identified as reference numeral 200, is shown. The wireless power transfer system 200 comprises a power supply 212, a DC / DC converter 214, a circuit 216, and a transmitting element 222. The power supply 212 is electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 214. The DC / DC converter 214 is electrically connected to the circuit 216. The circuit 216 is electrically connected to the transmitting element 222.

[0139] The power supply 212 is for generating an input power signal for power transmission. In this embodiment, the input power signal is a direct current (DC) power signal.

[0140] The DC / DC converter 214 is for converting the received DC voltage signal to a desired voltage level. The received DC voltage may come from the power supply 212. Although the system 200 is illustrated to include the DC / DC converter 214, those skilled in the art will understand that other configurations are possible. In another embodiment, the DC / DC converter is absent.

[0141] In the illustrated configuration, circuit 216 comprises an inverter and an output stage. The output stage matches the output impedance of circuit 216 to the optimal impedance of the wireless link 230 between the transmitter and receiver. The output stage can also set a desired impedance presented to the inverter. The output stage also filters out high-frequency harmonic components of the inverter. Circuit 216 further comprises a transmitter control circuit or circuit configuration, as described later. Those skilled in the art will understand that only the inverter and transmitter control circuit or circuit configuration may exist.

[0142] The transmitting element 222 comprises one or more capacitive electrodes and an inductive element, i.e., an inductor. The capacitive electrodes may be elongated electrodes spaced laterally, but those skilled in the art will understand that other configurations are possible, including, but not limited to, concentric, coplanar, circular, elliptical, and disk-shaped electrodes. Other suitable electrode configurations are described in the applicant's U.S. Patent No. 9979206B2, the relevant portion of which is incorporated herein by reference. The inductive element may comprise one or more coils. The coils may include booster coils or shield coils, such as those described in the applicant's U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 193539, the relevant portion of which is incorporated herein by reference. The transmitting element 222 may further include a resonant element for resonating the capacitive electrodes and inductive element, i.e., the capacitor and inductor.

[0143] The power supply 212 supplies a DC input power signal to the DC / DC converter 214, which converts the signal to a desired voltage level. The inverter in circuit 216 receives the converted DC power signal and converts it to AC, generating a magnetic field and / or electric field in the transmitting / receiving element 222, allowing power to be transmitted via electric field coupling or magnetic field coupling. Specifically, the transmitting element 222 generates a magnetic field / electric field and transmits power to the receiver via magnetic field / electric field coupling. The power supply 212, DC / DC converter 214, circuit 216, and transmitting element 222 can together form a transmitter 210. As mentioned above, the transmitter 210 may not have the DC / DC converter 214.

[0144] The wireless power transmission system 200 further comprises a load 228, a DC / DC converter 226, a circuit 224, and a receiving element 229. The load 228 is electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 226. The DC / DC converter 226 is electrically connected to the circuit 224. The circuit 224 is electrically connected to the receiving element 229.

[0145] In the illustrated configuration, load 228 is a DC load. Load 228 may be static or variable.

[0146] The DC / DC converter 226 is for converting the received DC voltage signal to a desired voltage level. The received DC voltage may be from circuit 224. System 200 includes the DC / DC converter 226, but those skilled in the art will understand that other configurations are possible. In another embodiment, the DC / DC converter 226 is absent.

[0147] Circuit 224 comprises an input stage and a rectifier. The input stage is configured to ensure the optimal impedance presented to the receiving element 229 in the full power state of the wireless power transmission system 200. The input stage can also maintain the quasi-voltage source operation of the receiving element 229 so that the output of the rectifier exhibits a stable DC voltage from no load to full load state. Circuit 224 further comprises a receiver control circuit or circuit configuration, as described later. Those skilled in the art will understand that only the rectifier and the receiver control circuit or circuit configuration may be present.

[0148] The receiving element 229 comprises one or more capacitive electrodes and an inductive element, i.e., an inductor. The capacitive electrodes may be elongated electrodes spaced laterally, but those skilled in the art will understand that other configurations are possible, including, but not limited to, concentric, coplanar, circular, elliptical, and disk-shaped electrodes. Other suitable electrode configurations are described in the applicant's U.S. Patent No. 9,979206B2, the relevant portion of which is incorporated herein by reference. The inductive element may comprise one or more coils. The coils may include booster coils or shield coils, such as those described in the applicant's U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 193539, the relevant portion of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0149] The transmitting element 222 and the receiving element 229 of system 200 form a wireless link 230. Elements 222 and 229 are separated by a wireless gap. The wireless gap can be formed by the atmosphere, i.e., air, or a physical medium, such as a wall, glass, liquid, wood, or insulation. Power is transmitted from one element to the other via the wireless link 230 through resonant or non-resonant magnetic and / or electric field coupling, i.e., electrical or magnetic induction.

[0150] During operation, the receiving element 229 extracts power from the magnetic and / or electric fields generated by the transmitting element 222. The circuit 224 rectifies the received power signal. The DC / DC converter 226 converts the rectified power signal to the desired power level to be received by the load 228. In this way, the receiving element 229 extracts the power transmitted by the transmitting element 222 (transmitter 210), and the power is transmitted to the load 228 via magnetic / electric field coupling. The load 228, DC / DC converter 226, circuit 224, and receiving element 229 can together form a receiver 220. As mentioned above, the receiver 220 may not have the DC / DC converter 226.

[0151] Next, referring to Figure 3, a block diagram of a wireless power transmission system 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure is shown.

[0152] System 10 comprises transmitter modules 12, for example, 12a and 12b. Each transmitter module comprises transmitter elements 14, 16, for example, 14a, 16a and 14b, 16b. The transmitter elements are stacked and arranged alternately. One transmitter element 14a, 14b of each module 12a, 12b lies in one transverse plane (z-plane), and another transmitter element 16a, 16b of each module 12a, 12b lies in another transverse plane (z-plane). Thus, the transmitter elements are located in a single layer that lies on the same plane between modules. Modules 12a, 12b are each connected to a power supply 18 in a daisy-chain configuration. Although not shown, DC / DC converters and circuits as described may be connected between the modules and the power supply 18. The power supply 18 supplies power signals for transferring power from the transmitter elements 14, 16 to the receiver. The power supply 18 can further supply low-power pulses for detecting the receiver, as described later.

[0153] System 10 further comprises a transmitter controller 26. The transmitter controller 26 is electrically connected to the transmitter module 12. The transmitter controller 26 controls the operation of the elements. This includes controlling the transmitter elements to send low-power pulses to detect a receiver, controlling one or more transmitter elements to ramp up the power transmitted when a receiver is detected, controlling one or more elements to ramp down the power transmitted when the receiver has extracted sufficient power, controlling one or more transmitter elements to deactivate or stop transmission / transmission, and setting the operating parameters of one or more elements during power transmission. The controller 26 may include a microcontroller (MCU).

[0154] The transmitter module 12, power supply 18, and transmitter controller 26 may form a transmitter 20 for wirelessly transmitting power to the receiver 22. Alternatively, the power supply 18 may be located outside the transmitter 20.

[0155] System 10 further comprises a receiver 22 having a receiver element 24. The receiver 22 may include a load, a DC / DC converter, and / or circuitry, as described. The receiver 22 extracts power from a field generated by one or more transmitter elements of the module.

[0156] The efficiency of power transfer between a single transmitter element and a receiver element 24 is affected by the separation distance and misalignment between the elements. Movement of the receiver 22 can increase the misalignment between the elements. The described transmitter controller 26 selects the appropriate transmitter elements for power transfer and determines the optimized operating parameters for power transfer, as described below.

[0157] Next, referring to Figure 4, an example of a part of system 10 is shown. In this example, the elements (transmitter elements and receiver elements) are in the form of coils, and each coil has a single, roughly rectangular winding extending in the xy-plane. That is, each element has a single coil extending in a two-dimensional plane. As shown in Figure 4, two transmitter modules 12 are shown, each having two transmitter elements 14, 16. The elements are stacked and staggered such that one transmitter element partially overlaps with another element in the z-axis direction. Furthermore, one transmitter element of the first module overlaps with another element of the second module, for example, element 16a overlaps with element 14b.

[0158] Similarly, the receiver comprises a receiver element 24 in the shape of a coil having a generally rectangular winding. The receiver element 24 may move laterally along the transmitter elements so that the receiver element 24 aligns with various transmitter elements. The receiver element 24 may move in the xy plane while maintaining an isolation distance from the transmitter 20, i.e., the z-axis position. For example, although the receiver element 24 is shown aligned with the transmitter element 16a in the xy axes, the receiver element 24 may, by movement of the receiver 22, first align with element 16b and then with element 14b. The receiver 22 may stop moving when element 24 is aligned with the transmitter element 16a.

[0159] The transmitter 20 further comprises a shield 28. The shield 28 may comprise a series of plates that restrict the field generated by the element in one direction. The shield 28 may also comprise a passive electrode described in the applicant's U.S. Patent No. 11139690B2, the relevant portion of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0160] While elements of specific shapes and sizes are illustrated, those skilled in the art will understand that these are purely illustrative and can be modified within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, although coils are illustrated, the elements can instead take the form of electrodes, such as capacitive electrode plates or rails.

[0161] Since only one transmitter element is optimally aligned with the receiver element 24, it is inefficient for all transmitter elements to constantly transmit power to the receiver 22. Furthermore, for safety reasons, the transmitter elements should not operate at full power when the receiver 22 is not present.

[0162] The transmitter module 12 operates such that a single transmitter element transmits power to the receiver 22 (i.e., the receiver element 24), while other transmitter elements remain inactive. The transmitter element transmits power by generating a field that magnetically couples the receiver element 24 and extracts power from the field. Since only a single transmitter element actively generates a field, the receiver is not exposed to multiple fields from the transmitter elements of module 12. Such multiple fields could form a composite field that may not be optimal for the receiver, thereby reducing the power transfer efficiency between the transmitter element and the receiver.

[0163] To determine the single transmitter element best suited for operation (i.e., power transfer), communication between the various transmitter elements of the transmitter module 12, communication between the transmitter elements and the receiver 24, and communication between adjacent transmitter modules 12 are required, as described below.

[0164] Next, referring to Figure 5, a method for operating the wireless power transmission system 10 is shown. This method can be performed at least partially by the transmitter controller 26. In addition, a receiver controller (not shown) may perform one or more steps of the method.

[0165] To detect whether a receiver is in proximity to module 12, the transmitter module 12 first transmits a low-power pulse. In particular, each transmitter element within module 12 transmits pulses alternately. This alternating operation can operate in various ways. For example, while all other elements are inactive, the first transmitter element 14a in the first transmitter module 12a can transmit a pulse. Then, while all other elements are inactive, the second element 16a in the first module 12a can transmit a pulse. Then, the first transmitter element 14b in the second transmitter module 12b, then the second element 16b in the second module 12b, and so on. As a further example, while all other elements are inactive, all transmitter elements in the same layer (same z-plane) may transmit pulses simultaneously. For example, while elements 16a and 16b are inactive, the first transmitter elements 14a and 14b in the first and second transmitter modules 12a and 12b may simultaneously transmit low-power pulses. Low-power pulses may not draw large amounts of power from the power supply 18, ensuring that the transmitter 20 does not use a large amount of power to detect the receiver. Furthermore, low-power pulses ensure that the exposed modules 12a and 12b do not generate power signals that exceed safety limits, such as specific absorption rate (SAR) limits.

[0166] The transmitter continues transmitting until a receiver is detected at 42. When the receiver 22 is close enough to one of the transmitter elements, the receiver 22 receives a low-power pulse and transmits a response signal at 44. In this example, the response signal is a rectified voltage generated from the low-power pulse. The receiver 22 may also transmit a signal to the transmitter element indicating that the receiver is ready to receive power. Then, at 46, the transmitter 20 begins to transfer power to the receiver 22.

[0167] The process of transferring power to the receiver 22 is illustrated in detail in Figure 6. The transmitter element closest to the receiver 22 receives the response signal from the receiver. Other transmitter elements may also receive the response signal, but the transmitter controller 26 determines, based on the received response signal, which transmitter element is closest to the receiver 22. The response signal may be larger because there is less attenuation during transmission to the closest transmitter element. The transmitter controller 26 may, accordingly, select a transmitter element for power transfer, for example, element 16a. The controller 26 then deactivates all other transmitter elements. The controller 26 may also deactivate only other transmitter elements in the same module 12, for example, element 14a. In this way, other transmitter modules can continue to operate and may be used to transfer power to other receivers. However, both transmitter elements of a single module, for example, module 12a, do not transfer power simultaneously. One element transfers power, and the other element is inactive. This can at least partially eliminate magnetic field overlap that could adversely affect power transfer or transfer efficiency.

[0168] Next, the power transmitted by transmitter element 16a is ramped up at 54 because the other transmitter element 14a is inactive. Ramping up may involve increasing the power transmitted from the transmitter element to receiver element 24. The power is transmitted from transmitter element 16a to receiver 22, i.e., receiver element 24, at this increased power level, for example, increased voltage or current.

[0169] To prevent the power level from increasing while receiver 22 is still moving, before ramping up the power at 54, the method can determine at 53 whether receiver 22 is stationary. Receiver 22 can communicate, for example, transmit a rectified voltage to transmitter modules 12a, 12b. At least one of transmitter modules 12, 12b, for example transmitter module 12a, monitors the rectified voltage from receiver 22 and determines the voltage change over time. A constant rectified voltage (i.e., no change in voltage over a threshold time period) may indicate that receiver 22 is stationary. A non-constant voltage may indicate that receiver 22 is still moving. Ramping up the power at 54 may be conditional on receiver 22 being stationary. Therefore, once it is determined at 53 that receiver 22 is stationary, the power transmitted at 54 may ramp up.

[0170] When sufficient power is transmitted to the receiver 22, for example, when the receiver 22's battery is charged, the receiver 22 communicates a completion signal to the transmitter module 12a at 56. In response, the transmitter element 16a ramps down the power transmitted at 58, i.e., reduces the power, voltage, and / or current levels. The power level may be reduced to trickle charge, i.e., a charge equal to the load in the receiver 22, for example, the self-discharge value of the battery.

[0171] We have described power transfer when the receiver element 24 is aligned with a transmitter element, for example, element 16a, but such alignment does not always exist. In other words, the receiver element 24 can be anywhere between transmitter elements. The receiver element 24 may be closer to a certain transmitter element than another, but the impedance for power transfer may not be optimized if the impedance is based on a perfect alignment between the transmitter and receiver elements. Therefore, it may be beneficial to tune the transmitter module so that the transmitter elements transfer power with an operating impedance that optimizes power transfer for receivers at various relative positions of the transmitter elements in the module. The receiver 22 may also be tuned to ensure optimal power transfer.

[0172] The transmitter module 12a may include an indicator, such as an LED, that changes color based on the operating state of module 12a. For example, the LED may blink green when a low-power pulse is being transmitted and light up green when a receiver is detected. Then, when it ramps up and is transmitting power to the receiver 22, the LED may blink yellow. When charging is complete and only trickle charging is taking place, the LED may light up yellow. If an error occurs, the LED may blink red. Possible errors include situations where communication between elements is impossible due to lack of connection, such as Wi-Fi being down.

[0173] Referring now to Figure 7, it is shown that the receiver element 24 is in the maximum misalignment state relative to the transmitter element 16a. Any further movement of the receiver element 24 will bring it closer to the transmitter element 16a or other transmitter modules, such as the transmitter element 14b of module 12b.

[0174] Figure 8 shows that the receiver element 24 is in an optimal alignment state with the transmitter element 16a. The receiver element 24 may be more closely aligned with the transmitter element 16a, but the position of the receiver element 24 relative to the transmitter element 16a is intermediate between the misaligned position in Figure 7 and the aligned position in Figure 4. Power transfer between the transmitter element 16a and the receiver element 24 is tuned based on this. That is, the operating impedance of the transmitter element 16a is set to a value based on the average position of the receiver element 24 between its maximum alignment and maximum misalignment. By tuning the transmitter element 16a to this impedance value, it is ensured that the power transfer efficiency is maximized on average across the range of possible positions of the receiver element 24 in which the transmitter element 16a can transfer power to the receiver element 24.

[0175] Figure 9 shows how to tune a transmitter module, for example, element 16a. In step 60, the transmitter controller 26 determines the parameters when the receiver element 24 is aligned with the transmitter element 16a. The transmitter controller 26 further determines the parameters in step 62 when the receiver element 24 is misaligned with the transmitter element 16a, i.e., at maximum misalignment. This parameter is the coupling impedance between the transmitter element 16a and the receiver element 24. The controller 26 then averages the determined parameters in step 64 and sets the operating impedance of the transmitter element 16a to the average impedance in step 66. In this way, the transmitter element 16a can transmit power over a range of lateral positions of the receiver element 24 and optimize power transmission over this range. This tuning method may be repeated for the transmitter element 14a and other transmitter elements of other transmitter modules.

[0176] A simulation of the wireless power transfer system 10 was tested and the simulation results were obtained. The wireless power transfer system 10 was simulated with the following operating parameters: Transmitter element length 300 mm, transmitter element width 150 mm (all transmitter elements have the same dimensions), receiver element 24 length 300 mm, receiver element 24 width 150 mm. The isolation distance between adjacent (i.e., layered) transmitter elements within a single module is uniformly 5 mm. The isolation distance between the shield and an adjacent transmitter element, for example, transmitter element 14a, is 20 mm. Therefore, the isolation distance between the shield and a distant transmitter element within the module is 25 mm.

[0177] The transmission distance or separation distance between the receiver element 24 and the transmitter element is 30 mm or 35 mm when aligned with the transmitter element. The distance is 30 mm for the front transmitter element, e.g., element 16a or 16b, and 35 mm for the rear transmitter element, e.g., element 14a or 14b. The gap between transmitter elements in the same lateral plane (z-axis plane) may be an air gap, which is 100 mm, i.e., the distance between elements 14a and 14b, or 16a and 16b.

[0178] The operation of system 10 was simulated, and the results are shown in Figures 10 to 12b. The front transmitter elements, i.e., elements in the same lateral plane (elements 16a and 16b), are simultaneously excited or powered, while elements in other lateral planes (elements 14a and 14b) are deactivated or do not power any receiver. The operating frequency of the system is 6.78 MHz.

[0179] Figure 10 is a graph of the coupled impedance of the transmitter elements over a range of x-axis positions of receiver element 24. As shown by the circular data points on the left side of the graph, the coupled impedance of transmitter elements 16a and 16b ranges from approximately 65 ohms to 37 ohms in the range from -5 cm to +5 cm. Misalignment is measured for precise alignment of receiver element 24 and transmitter element 16a at 0 cm. The average impedance is approximately 51 ohms. This average impedance ranges from +25.6% to -30.9% depending on the misalignment along the x-axis.

[0180] As shown by the rectangular data points on the right side of the graph, the coupled impedance of transmitter elements 14a and 14b ranges from approximately 25 ohms to 48 ohms in the range of -5 cm to +5 cm. Misalignment is measured for precise alignment of receiver element 24 and transmitter element 14a at 0 cm. The average impedance is approximately 38 ohms. This average impedance ranges from +27.2% to -31.6% depending on the misalignment along the x-axis.

[0181] Figure 11 is a graph of radio frequency (RF) power transfer efficiency along the x-axis when the receiver element 24 is coupled with transmitter elements 16a and 16b (front elements) on the left side of the graph, and with transmitter elements 14a and 14b (rear elements) on the right side of the graph. Power transfer efficiency is the power transfer efficiency between each transmitter element and the receiver element 24. When coupled with the front elements, the RF efficiency is in the range of approximately 96.5% to approximately 93%. When coupled with the rear elements, the RF efficiency is in the range of approximately 92% to approximately 96.2%.

[0182] Figure 12a shows the coupling impedance between transmitter elements 16a and 16b (front elements) and receiver element 24. The coupling impedance is shown as the receiver element 24 moves along the z-axis from -2.5 cm to +2.5 cm relative to transmitter element 16a. As shown in Figure 10, the line on the left of the graph with circular data points shows the coupling impedance when the x-axis misalignment is +5 cm. With this x-axis misalignment, the coupling impedance varies from approximately 70 ohms to 20 ohms over the range of misalignment along the z-axis. As shown in Figure 10, the line on the right of the graph with rectangular data points shows the coupling impedance when the x-axis misalignment is -5 cm. With this x-axis misalignment, the coupling impedance varies from approximately 140 ohms to 35 ohms over the range of misalignment along the z-axis.

[0183] Figure 12b shows the coupling impedance between the transmitter elements 14a, 14b (rear or rear elements) and the receiver element 24. The coupling impedance is shown as the receiver element 24 moves along the z-axis from -2.5 cm to +2.5 cm relative to the transmitter element 14a. As shown in Figure 10, the line on the left of the graph with circular data points shows the coupling impedance when the x-axis misalignment is +5 cm. With this x-axis misalignment, the coupling impedance varies from approximately 50 ohms to 20 ohms over the range of misalignment along the z-axis. As shown in Figure 10, the line on the right of the graph with circular data points shows the coupling impedance when the x-axis misalignment is -5 cm. With this x-axis misalignment, the coupling impedance varies from approximately 105 ohms to 25 ohms over the range of misalignment along the z-axis.

[0184] A simulation of the operating system 10 has been described, and an exemplary transmitter module 12 is shown in Figure 13. In this exemplary embodiment, transmitter elements 14, 16 are contained within a housing 70. An indicator 72, such as an LED, is visible on the side of the housing 70 to show the status of the transmitter module 12. The housing 70 contains the transmitter elements 14, 16, and any other components of the module, such as a transmitter controller 26. The housing 70 is an N-shaped pentomino. The first transmitter element 14 occupies one lateral plane of the first layer within the housing 70. The second transmitter element 16 partially overlaps the first transmitter element 14 and occupies a second lateral plane of the second layer within the housing 70. A plug 74 extends from the side of the housing 70 to connect to other housings containing other transmitter modules 12. On the opposite side of the housing 70 is a corresponding plug socket (not shown).

[0185] The shape of each housing 70 allows for the overlapping of the front and rear transmitter elements, as described.

[0186] As shown in Figure 13, the shape of the housing 70, and the plug 74 and socket, allow adjacent housings 70 to be connected to each other. Therefore, the number of modules can be easily increased or decreased without changing the operating method or the design of individual transmitter modules. Furthermore, the connected housings 70 form a continuous and homogeneous transmitter element layout when the housings 70 are connected to each other.

[0187] Although not shown in Figure 13, a shield (passive electrode) may be present within the housing 70. The shield may restrict signals, such as fields, generated by one or more transmitter elements of the transmitter module to one z-direction. This ensures that the SAR limit is met. By connecting adjacent housings 70, a continuous shield is formed along the connected housings 70.

[0188] Figure 14 shows several transmitter modules connected to each other and mounted on rail 76. In particular, housings 70a, 70b, 70c, 70d, 70e, and 70f are connected to each other and mounted on rail 76. A single power supply 18 powers the transmitter elements of the transmitter modules in all housings 70a, 70b, 70c, 70d, 70e, and 70f. Each housing contains one transmitter module having two transmitter elements, for example, 14, 16. One of the two transmitter elements in each housing is aligned with the first lateral plane (z-axis plane), i.e., the front transmitter element. The other of the two transmitter elements in each housing is aligned with the second lateral plane (z-axis plane), i.e., the rear or rear transmitter element.

[0189] A single receiver may move along the x-axis parallel to the housing until it stops. Once stopped for a sufficient amount of time, power may be transmitted from one of the transmitter elements of a module within a single housing, such as housing 70d, to the receiver element of the receiver.

[0190] Next, referring to Figure 15, there are several housings 70a, 70b, 70c along the first rail 76a, and several housings 80a, 80b, 80c along the second rail 76b. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, multiple receivers such as receivers 82a, 82b mounted on a shopping cart may be aligned within the transmitter elements of the housings on the first rail 76a. Other receivers such as receivers 84a, 84b may be aligned with the transmitter elements of the housings on the second rail 76b. In this way, the receivers can receive power from transmitter elements on two different rails, with elements on the same rail not interfering with each other and elements on different rails not interfering with each other. In this way, the maximum power can be transmitted to the maximum number of receivers while having a high tolerance for misalignment between receivers and transmitter elements.

[0191] The size of the transmitter modules within housings 80a, 80b, and 80c (and therefore the size of the housings) can be optimized for a particular receiver size. For example, if receivers 82a and 82b are stacked together, there is a limit to the stacking spacing that determines how close the receivers can be stacked. The length of the transmitter modules (and therefore the length of the transmitter elements within the modules) can be sized such that the distance between adjacent transmitter modules is equal to the minimum stacking distance between receivers.

[0192] When the transmitter distance is longer, even when the receivers are stacked in the tightest possible configuration, power may not be supplied to all receivers simultaneously. When the transmitter distance is short, there may be more transmitter modules than necessary, resulting in unnecessary surplus.

[0193] While this optimization is described in relation to shopping carts, similar optimization methods can be applied to other receiver configurations that may be stacked to a certain minimum distance, such as trolleys at airports and train stations, shopping baskets, folding chairs and tables, electric scooters and bicycles, and other power supply devices.

[0194] Those skilled in the art will understand that while the transmitter module is shown in a specific orientation, other configurations are possible. For example, the transmitter module may be floor-mounted, and the receiver may be mounted on the bottom or underside of the vehicle / receiving unit. Conversely, the transmitter module may be mounted on an overhead or ceiling-mounted structure, and the receiver may be mounted on top of the vehicle / receiving unit.

[0195] Next, referring to Figure 16, another arrangement of the transmitter modules is shown. In this arrangement, housings 90a-90c are mounted on the floor. A single power supply 18 powers the transmitter elements of the transmitter modules in all housings 90a-90c. Each housing contains one transmitter module having two transmitter elements, for example, 14, 16. One of the two transmitter elements in each housing is aligned with the first plane (y-axis plane), i.e., the front transmitter element. The other of the two transmitter elements in each housing is aligned with the second plane (y-axis plane), i.e., the rear or rear transmitter element.

[0196] Multiple receivers 92a-92c may be mounted on the bottom of the shopping cart and aligned within the transmitter elements of housings 90a-90c. Power may be transmitted from housings 90a-90c to receivers 92a-92c.

[0197] In addition, while a shopping cart has been described, those skilled in the art will understand that other receiver vehicles or receiver units are possible. For example, the receiver may be mounted on a bed (stretcher, mobile bed, etc.) or an equipment cart (medical equipment cart, crash cart, mobile tool cart, etc.).

[0198] While embodiments have been described with reference to the drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that modifications and alterations can be made without departing from the scope defined by the attached claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0199] 10 Wireless Power Transfer Systems 12 Transmitter Modules 14 Transmitter elements 16 Transmitter elements 18 Power supply 20 Transmitters 22 Receivers 24 Receiver elements 26 Transmitter Controller 28 Shields 70 Housing 74 plugs 76 rails 80a, 80b, 80c Housing 82a, 82b receivers 84a, 84b receivers 90a~90c Housing 92a~92c Receiver 100 Wireless Power Transfer Systems 110 Transmitter 112 Power supply 116 Sending elements 120 receivers 124 Receiving elements 128 load 200 Wireless Power Transfer Systems 210 Transmitter 212 Power supply 214 DC / DC Converter 216 circuits 222 Sending elements 224 circuits 226 DC / DC Converter 228 load 229 Receiving element 230 Wireless Link

Claims

1. A method for operating at least one transmitter module of a wireless power transfer system, wherein each transmitter module comprises a plurality of transmitter elements arranged in a plurality of offset layers, each having one transmitter element per layer, and the method is The steps include detecting a receiver in at least one transmitter element of the transmitter module, In response to the detection, the process involves generating a power signal from the first transmitter element of the transmitter module to transmit power to the detected receiver. During the transmission, the second transmitter element of the transmitter module is kept inactive. Methods that include...

2. The detection step is, Steps to detect the receiver based on the response signal from the receiver. The method according to claim 1, including the method described in claim 1.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the response signal includes the parameters of the receiver.

4. Step 1: Detect a response signal in each transmitter element of the transmitter module. The method according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising:

5. Step of comparing the detected response signals The method according to claim 4, further comprising:

6. Step of selecting the first transmitter element based on the above comparison. The method according to claim 5, further comprising:

7. The step of communicating the response signal to the second transmitter module. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 6, further comprising:

8. Step of tuning the first transmitter element The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising:

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the tuning step includes setting the impedance of the first transmitter element.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the impedance includes the average of the impedance when the receiver is aligned with the first transmitter element and the impedance when the receiver is not aligned with the first transmitter element.

11. The step of transmitting a search signal from at least one transmitter element of the transmitter module. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising:

12. The step of alternately transmitting the search signal from the plurality of transmitter elements of the transmitter module. The method according to claim 11, further comprising:

13. Steps to detect the receiver based on the transmitted search signal. The method according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising:

14. The steps include receiving a completion signal from the receiver, A step of modifying the power signal based on the completion signal. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising:

15. A transmitter module for a wireless power transfer system, wherein the transmitter module comprises a plurality of transmitter elements arranged in a plurality of offset layers, each having one transmitter element per layer, and each transmitter element is adapted to generate a field for transferring power to a receiver, and the transmitter module, The transmitter module detects a receiver in at least one transmitter element, In response to the detection, a power signal is generated from the first transmitter element of the transmitter module to transmit power to the detected receiver. During the transmission, the second transmitter element of the transmitter module is kept inactive. A transmitter module further equipped with a controller adapted for this purpose.

16. The aforementioned controller In each of the plurality of transmitter elements of the transmitter module, a response signal is received from the receiver. The transmitter module according to claim 15, further adapted as follows.

17. The aforementioned controller The detected response signals are compared, Selecting the first transmitter element based on the above comparison The transmitter module according to claim 16, further adapted to do the following.

18. The aforementioned controller Set the impedance of the first transmitter element. A transmitter module according to any one of claims 15 to 17, further adapted as follows.

19. The transmitter module according to claim 18, wherein the impedance is the average of the impedance when the receiver is aligned with the first transmitter element and the impedance when the receiver is not aligned with the first transmitter element.

20. The aforementioned controller To transmit a search signal, control at least one of the plurality of transmitter elements. A transmitter module according to any one of claims 15 to 19, further adapted as follows.

21. The aforementioned controller To transmit the search signal, the plurality of transmitter elements are controlled alternately. The transmitter module according to claim 20, further adapted as follows.

22. The aforementioned controller The power signal is modified based on the completion signal from the receiver. A transmitter module according to any one of claims 15 to 21, further adapted as follows.

23. A method for tuning one transmitter element among a plurality of transmitter elements of a transmitter module of a wireless power transfer system, wherein the plurality of transmitter elements are arranged in a plurality of offset layers, each having one transmitter element per layer, and the method is When the receiver is in an aligned position with the transmitter element, the steps include determining the parameters of the transmitter element of the transmitter module, When the receiver is in a misaligned position with the transmitter element, the steps include determining the parameters of the transmitter element, A step of tuning the transmitter elements based on the determined parameters. Methods that include...

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the step of tuning the transmitter element includes the step of setting the operating impedance of the transmitter element.

25. The method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the operating impedance includes the average of the determined parameters.

26. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the parameter includes the impedance of the transmitter element.

27. A method for operating a receiver of a wireless power transfer system, wherein the receiver is configured to receive power from a transmitter element of a transmitter module of the wireless power transfer system, the transmitter module comprises a plurality of transmitter elements arranged in a plurality of offset layers, each having one transmitter element per layer, and the method is The steps include transmitting a signal to at least one of the multiple transmitter elements of a transmitter module, A step of extracting power from a field generated by one of the plurality of transmitter elements selected based on the signal; Methods that include...

28. Steps to transmit the signal to the plurality of transmitter elements. The method according to claim 27, further comprising:

29. The step of transmitting the signal to a second plurality of transmitter elements of a second transmitter module. The method according to claim 27 or 28, further comprising:

30. The steps include comparing the power extracted from a first field generated by a first transmitter element among the plurality of transmitter elements with the power extracted from a second field generated by a second transmitter element among the plurality of transmitter elements, Based on the above comparison, the steps include: extracting power from the first field generated by the first transmitter element; The method according to any one of claims 27 to 29, further comprising:

31. A receiver for a wireless power transfer system, wherein the receiver is configured to receive power from transmitter elements of a transmitter module of the wireless power transfer system, the transmitter module comprises a plurality of transmitter elements arranged in a plurality of offset layers, each having one transmitter element per layer, and the receiver comprises a receiver element for extracting power from a field generated by the transmitter elements, and the receiver is, Transmitting a signal to at least one of the multiple transmitter elements of a transmitter module, Controlling the receiver element to extract power from a field generated by one of the plurality of transmitter elements selected based on the signal. A receiver further equipped with a controller adapted to perform the following actions.

32. The aforementioned controller The signal is transmitted to the plurality of transmitter elements. The receiver according to claim 31, further adapted as follows.

33. The aforementioned controller The signal is transmitted to a second plurality of transmitter elements of the second transmitter module. The receiver according to claim 31 or 32, further adapted as follows.

34. The aforementioned controller The power extracted from the first field generated by the first transmitter element among the plurality of transmitter elements is compared with the power extracted from the second field generated by the second transmitter element among the plurality of transmitter elements. Based on the comparison, the receiver element is controlled to extract power from the first field generated by the first transmitter element. The receiver according to claims 31 to 33, further adapted as follows.

35. Load electrically connected to the receiver element The receiver according to any one of claims 31 to 34, further comprising:

36. A wireless power transmission system, A transmitter module comprising multiple transmitter elements arranged in multiple offset layers, each having one transmitter element per layer, with each transmitter element adapted to generate a field for transmitting power to a receiver, and further comprising a transmitter module with a transmitter controller, A receiver configured to receive power from the transmitter element of the transmitter module, the receiver comprising a receiver element for extracting power from a field generated by the transmitter element, and a transmitter controller, The aforementioned transmitter controller, The receiver is detected in at least one transmitter element of the transmitter module, In response to the detection, a power signal is generated from the first transmitter element of the transmitter module to transmit power to the detected receiver. During the transmission, the second transmitter element of the transmitter module is kept inactive. The receiver and A wireless power transmission system equipped with the following features.

37. The receiver controller, Transmitting a signal to at least one of the plurality of transmitter elements of the transmitter module, Controlling the receiver element to extract power from a field generated by one of the plurality of transmitter elements selected based on the signal. The system according to claim 36, which is adapted to do so.

38. A non-temporary computer-readable medium storing computer program code, wherein the computer program code, when executed by a processor, is configured to perform the method described in any one of claims 1 to 15 and 23 to 30.

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