Methods and devices for power transfer

Abstract

A transmitter for a wireless power transfer system may create an expanding magnetic field by repetitively shorting out an inductive load (e.g., using a plasma switch). For example, the transmitter may comprise a tank circuit (e.g., LC circuit, resonant circuit, or tuned circuit). The tank circuit may comprise an inductor (e.g., a plurality of coils) and a capacitor repetitively connected by a plasma switch. The tank circuit may act as an electrical resonator, e.g., storing energy oscillating at the circuit's resonant frequency. The transmitter may generate a repetitive compression pulse by repetitively short circuiting the tank circuit (e.g., by using a plasma switch). The repetitive compression pulse may create a magnetic field in one or more coils. The magnetic field may induce current in one or more nearby electrical devices.

Description

METHODS AND DEVICES FOR POWER TRANSFERCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 63 / 559,412 titled “Methods and Devices for Wireless Power Transfer” filed February 29, 2024, and U.S. Application No. 63 / 740,518 titled “Systems, Devices, and Methods for Power Transfer” filed December 31, 2024, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for any and all purposes.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to, among other things, methods, devices, and systems for generating, transmitting, and receiving power.BACKGROUND

[0003] The present disclosure relates to, among other things, a device capable of wirelessly providing electrical power, e.g., to one or more wirelessly-powered or battery- powered devices.

[0004] Wireless power transfer offers an attractive solution for increasing the mobility of electronic and electromechanical devices, enhancing their usability, and increasing device design freedom in consumer electronics, industrial, Internet of Things (loT), and healthcare applications. With regard to consumer electronics, like smart phones, watches and other portable devices, near field wireless power transfer offers an intermediate solution, but falls short of more flexible, useful, and long-term solutions. For near field wireless power transfer, the wireless device to be powered includes a receiver that is generally comprised of metal coils connected to an impedance matching network and rectifier that is used to power a load, such as a battery, and the powering device includes a transmitter that is generally comprised of similar coils to the receiver that are connected to an oscillator and a power source. When the transmitting device is supplied with a time dependent voltage and a corresponding current, the coil current is driven to alternating high and low states in a periodic fashion generating a time dependent magnetic field that couples with the coils of the receiver and allows power to be transferred from the transmitting device to the wireless device. Capacitive coupling between metal electrodes based on highfrequency electric fields may similarly be utilized for near field power transfer. In either case, the wireless device needs to be physically close to the transmitting device, and often the times are precisely aligned, which is a limiting factor to the usefulness of the technology.

[0005] Far field wireless power transfer typically relies on power being transferred by beams of electromagnetic radiation, such as radio frequency and laser beams. The use of laser beams to transfer power, generally referred to as “power beaming,” requires a direct line of sight between a transmitter or source and the receiver or load and raises safety concerns because the laser radiation can cause blindness in humans and animals exposed to low power levels for short time intervals, while high power levels at sustained exposure periods can be deadly. Limiting factors associated with far field power transfer include directionality, safety, and overall power transfer efficiency. Magnetic flux compression generators have been used to transmit pulsed power output. However, magnetic flux compression generators are typically one-time-use devices (e.g., explosive driven) and a large portion of their applications is defense related (e.g., electromagnetic pulse weapons).

[0006] Accordingly, there is a need to safely and efficiently increase the distance at which a wireless device may wirelessly receive power from a transmitting device without destroying the transmitting device.

[0007] Additionally, several problems exist with conventional charging systems. For example, power transfer systems in general typically require transformers to convert high voltage from a power supply (e.g., a power main) to a voltage range. This leads to an increasingly high usage of transformers as power needs continue to increase. As transformers are expensive include large footprints, the increasing use of transformers is undesirable. An example is shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, where electric charge stations for electric vehicles can include one or more transformers, where each transformer carries a large footprint.

[0008] Another problem with conventional charging stations, and in particular conventional vehicle charging stations, is the lack of wireless charging capabilities. Typically, public vehicle charging stations are supplied with power via power mains (e.g. 1,400 V), where the power input is then conditioned by one or more transformers (e.g., of FIGS. 8 and 9) to satisfy the voltage and current requirements of a corresponding charging station. However, converting this power input to a wireless power supply has proven difficult in this field, and thus conventional vehicle charging stations have remained as wired charging stations.

[0009] Accordingly there are needs to provide transformer-less power charging stations, that can provide wireless charging to the charging product.SUMMARY

[0010] Systems, devices, and methods for wireless power transfer are described herein. In one aspect, a transmitter for a wireless power transfer system is disclosed. The transmitter stores energy in a capacitive circuit and creates an expanding magnetic field by repetitively shorting out an inductive load (e.g., using a plasma switch). For example, the transmitter may comprise a tank circuit (e.g., LC circuit, resonant circuit, or tuned circuit). The tank circuit may comprise an inductor (e.g., a plurality of coils) and a capacitor repetitively connected by a plasma switch. The tank circuit may act as an electrical resonator, e.g., storing energy oscillating at the circuit's resonant frequency. The transmitter may generate a repetitive compression pulse by repetitively short circuiting the tank circuit (e.g., by using a plasma switch). The repetitive compression pulse may create a magnetic field in one or more coils. The magnetic field may induce current in one or more nearby electrical devices.

[0011] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the system can include a transistor array, which can receive current from a high voltage source. The transistor array can be in electrical communication with a controller, which can activate each of the transistor array simultaneously with respect to each other. The transistor array can condition the high voltage current, and send pulses to an inductor-capacitor (LC) circuit. The LC circuit can convert the pulses into an electromagnetic (EM) resonance, which can then be converted into a magnetic field. The magnetic field can increase over a short period of time by causing a short circuit along the inductor. This magnetic flux can then be received by a wireless receiver, which can convert this magnetic flux into electric current for charging a battery. The systems and method described herein can thus provide wireless charging, with a high voltage input, and without conventional transformers.

[0012] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a method can include: receiving a power signal from a power source; activating, by a series of transformers, a transistor array in electrical communication with the power source, wherein each transformer of the series of transformers corresponds to a respective transistor of the transistor array, and wherein the activating comprises simultaneously activating the transistor array; receiving, based on the activating and by an inductor-capacitor (LC) circuit, pulsed power signals from thetransistor array; and generating, based on the pulsed power signals and by the LC circuit, an EM field.

[0013] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a method can include: receiving, by an inductor, one or more power signals, thereby generating a magnetic potential; causing an electrical compression of the magnetic potential along a direction associated with the inductor; and generating an electromagnetic (EM) field based on the electrical compression.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] FIG. 1 A is a block diagram illustrating a transmitter and receiving device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. IB is a block diagram illustrating an inductor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a flow chart of an example method in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a test system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a flow chart of an example test procedure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 5A is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic loop antenna in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 5B is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic loop antenna in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 5C is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic loop antenna in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 5D is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic loop antenna in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 5E is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic loop antenna in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 5F is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic loop antenna in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 5G is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic loop antenna in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 5H is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic loop antenna in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 6A is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic sensor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 6B is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic sensor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 6C is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic sensor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 6D is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic sensor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 6E is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic sensor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 6F is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic sensor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 6G is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic sensor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 6H is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic sensor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 61 is an illustration of a waveform collected by a magnetic sensor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 7A is an illustration of a waveform collected by a mono-pole antenna in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 7B is an illustration of a waveform collected by a mono-pole antenna in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating conventional vehicle charging stations.

[0039] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating conventional vehicle charging stations.

[0040] FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram illustrating a power transfer system according to the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 11 is a circuit diagram of a controller of a power transfer system, according to the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 12 is a diagram of respective transmitting and receiving circuits according to the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 13 shows electrical discharge along an inductor according to the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 14 is a circuit diagram illustrating a power transfer system according to the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 15 is a circuit diagram of a controller of a power transfer system, according to the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 16 is a process diagram according to the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 17 is a process diagram according to the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 18 is a block diagram illustrating a computing device according to the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and which are shown by way of illustration embodiments that may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Therefore, the following detailed description is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0050] The following abbreviated, or shortened, definitions are given to help the understanding of the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure. The abbreviated definitions given here are by no means exhaustive nor are they contradictory to the definitions as understood in the field or dictionary meaning. The abbreviated definitions are given here to supplement or more clearly define the definitions known in the art.

[0051] The term “charging” as used herein refers to the conversion of electricity into stored energy within an electrical device (e.g., a capacitor or electrochemical cell), typically by applying a voltage to, or running a current trough, the electrical device.

[0052] The term “circuit” as used herein refers to a path for transmitting electric current.

[0053] The term “capacitor” as used herein refers to a device that stores electrical energy in an electric field.

[0054] The term “inductor” as used herein refers to a device that stores energy in a magnetic field when electric current flows through it.

[0055] The term “transformer” as used herein refers to a device that transfers electrical energy from one electrical circuit to another circuit, or multiple circuits. For example, a transformer may employ the principle of mutual induction to transfer electrical energy between two or more circuits through electromagnetic induction, enabling the modification of voltage and current levels while transferring power. A transformer may comprise a closely spaced coil of wire (e.g., a primary coil). When energized, the primarycoil may create a magnetic field that may be channeled to a secondary coil of wire through a core (e.g., made of a material like iron or ferrite) or through a closely spaced gap. The core may serve to efficiently concentrate and guide the magnetic flux between the primary coil and the secondary coil. The secondary coil, positioned within the influence of the magnetic field, may capture the magnetic flux and convert it back into electrical form. A critical aspect of a transformer's operation may lie in the ratio of turns between the primary coil and the secondary coil, which determines the transformation ratio of voltage and current between the input and output. A higher number of turns in the secondary coil compared to the primary coil results in a step-up transformer (e.g., increasing voltage), whereas fewer turns lead to a step-down effect (e.g., decreasing voltage).

[0056] The term “plasma” as used herein refers to an electrically charged gas.

[0057] The term “current” as used herein refers to the flow or rate of flow of electric charge in a conductor or medium between two points having a difference in potential, generally expressed in amperes.

[0058] The term “voltage” as used herein refers to the electromotive force, or difference in electrical potential, expressed in volts, which are the practical units of electromotive force or difference in potential between two points in an electric field that requires one joule of work to move a positive charge of one coulomb from the point of lower potential to the point of higher potential.

[0059] The term “voltage source” as used herein refers to a device that maintains a voltage drop.

[0060] The term “power” as used herein refers to a source of physical or mechanical force or energy that is at, or can be put to, work, e.g. “electric power, water power.”

[0061] The term “impedance” as used herein refers to the total opposition offered by an electric circuit to the flow of an alternating current of a single frequency. It is a combination of resistance and reactance and is measured in ohms.

[0062] The term “field” as used herein refers to physical quantity specified at points throughout a region of space.

[0063] The term “frequency” as used herein refers to the number of periodic oscillations, vibrations, or waves per unit of time. It is usually expressed in hertz (Hz).

[0064] Magneto-cumulative generators (MCG) may generate high energy and / or high-current electromagnetic pulses. By establishing a flux between a first conductor and a second conductor of an MCG, a magnetic flux may be compressed by driving the firstconductor toward the second conductor (e.g., the flux may be compressed as the volume of the MCG is reduced). Typically MCGs may use explosives to work against the established magnetic field to produce an energy gain. Many types of geometries of MCGs exist and may include coaxial, semiconductor, plate, disk, helical, etc.

[0065] One type of MCG is the helical MCG (HMCG). In an HCMG, a seed current may establish an initial flux. The seed current may then be disconnected from a circuit of the HCMG and a central armature of the HCMG may expand to progressively make contact with a wire helix (e.g., coaxial to the armature). The armature may short out an individual coil of the wire helix as it expands outward and progressively makes contact with each remaining coil of the wire helix. Thus, the established flux between the armature and helix may be progressively compressed as the coils are shorted out. The inductance of the HCMG is reduced as the flux is compressed and, by the principle of flux conservation (e.g., in an ideal case, the initial magnetic flux is equal to the final magnetic flux), a corresponding increased current through the coil is produced and plasma is emitted. However, MCGs are limited to single-use applications due to the explosive nature of their inherently one-time use power sources.

[0066] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a transmitter of a wireless power transfer system may overcome the limitations of typical HMCGs and MCGs. A transmitter may include a helix including a number of coils. In order to repeatedly generate an increased current through the coils of the wire helix and an accompanying magnetic field, each coil of the helix must be shorted such that the coil of the helix and / or the armature are not destroyed. This may be accomplished by utilizing a plasma field to progressively short the coils of the helix. The helix may then be recharged and a plasma field may be used to progressively short the coils of the helix again. The charging and shorting may be performed repeatedly to generate a pulsatory magnetic field.

[0067] The transmitter of the present disclosure may comprise a charging circuit (e.g., that stores energy in a capacitive circuit) and a radiating circuit (e.g., that emits plasma from an inductive circuit). The transmitter may comprise a tank circuit (e.g., LC circuit, resonant circuit, or tuned circuit), which may include a combination of an inductive circuit and a capacitor that that drives the inductive circuit. The tank circuit may operate in a resonance.

[0068] An illustration of the transmitter and a receiving device in accordance with one embodiment is shown in FIG. 1 A. As illustrated, the transmitter 102 and receiving device 104 may be located in a physical environment 100. Physical environment 100 may bea room, a house, a museum, a concert venue, a sports stadium or arena, school, office, or any number of other places.

[0069] The transmitter 102 may comprise a voltage source 106 (e.g., an electrical supply), a capacitor 110, an inductor 112, a switch 114, and / or a processor 116. The transmitter 102 may be stationary, connected to a reliable power source, moderately cost sensitive, and moderately space constrained. The receiving device 104 may be mobile, contain a battery or capacitive power source (from which power can be both sourced and sunk, i.e., output and input), cost sensitive, and very space constrained.

[0070] In an aspect, the voltage source 106 may charge the capacitor 110. For example, the voltage source 106 may comprise a transformer. In one aspect, the capacitor 110 may comprise a capacitor bank, e.g., a plurality of capacitors linked together in parallel. For example, the capacitor bank may facilitate an increased capacitance and may reduce electrolyte damage.

[0071] In an aspect, the voltage source 106 may comprise a distribution or transmission line. For example, the voltage source 106 may comprise voltage and amperage supplied by a power grid to a pole transformer. In other aspects, the voltage source 106 may comprise any source of sufficiently high voltage and amperage, such as one or more of a battery, wind, or solar power supply.

[0072] According to the present disclosure, the transmitter 102 may utilize a repetitive version of a compression pulse, e.g., analogous to a pneumatic jack version of a compression pulse. Instead of being short-circuited by an exploding armature, a tank circuit (e.g., comprising voltage source 106, capacitor 110, and inductor 112) of the present disclosure may be repeatedly short circuited by switch 114 (e.g., a plasma switch or a series of semiconductor switches). The switch 114 may be controlled by a processor 116.

[0073] As opposed to being a device that has a one-time utility, the design of the present disclosure produces a magnetic field (e.g., magnetic field 118) in continuous pulsation (e.g., repeatedly charging inductor 112 with voltage source 106 and / or capacitor 110, and shorting inductor 112 facilitated by plasma 117) such that the magnetic field 118 becomes a transmission source of wireless power. In another aspect, the transmitter 102 may be short circuited by a digital approximation of an analog path. For example, the switch 114 may comprise a series of semiconductor switches (e.g., metal -oxide-semiconductor fieldeffect transistors) in parallel, which may be operated in a cascade fashion to short circuit the tank circuit (e.g., comprising voltage source 106, capacitor 110, and inductor 112). Plasma117 may be generated by an electric power source, such as a switched high voltage source (e.g., a voltage source to a power pole transformer).

[0074] For example, when the tank circuit (e.g., comprising voltage source 106, capacitor 110, and inductor 112) reaches a peak current, a plasma discharge effect (e.g., facilitated by plasma 117) may short circuit adjacent coils of the inductor 112 to effectively create a shorter and shorter conductive path in the inductive area. The shorter conductive path may cause the magnetic field 118 to expand in proportion, e.g., creating a magnetic pulse that far exceeds a distance that would naturally occur in the inductive field. The design of the inductor 112 (e.g., number of coils, gauge of the wire, the length of the inductor, etc.) may be selected or determined based upon factors such as voltage, current, and size of the transmitter 102. For example, the coils may include one or more turns of copper wiring.

[0075] As illustrated in FIG. IB, an initial current (e.g., provided by connecting the inductor 112 to the capacitor 110) may establish a seed flux in the inductor 112. As a subset of the coils of the inductor 112 are progressively shorted due to the plasma 117, the magnetic flux and / or current associated with the charged inductor 112 may be compressed. For example, a charge from a first coil of the inductor 112 may arc to the adjacent second coil. The charge of the second coil may arc to the third coil of the inductor, and so forth. This procession of shorting between adjacent coils may be termed as an avalanche. This progressive shorting may occur over a very short amount of time (e.g., on the ms scale), which may result in an electric flux. The electric flux may in turn generate a magnetic flux and resulting magnetic field 118. As the electric field is compressed, the magnetic field 118 may expand accordingly.

[0076] The plasma discharge effect (e.g., the arcing described above) may be described similarly to a pseudospark switch (e.g., a Marx generator using pseudospark switches), in which a pseudospark discharge process may include a breakdown that is first triggered between electrodes (e.g., an anode and a cathode) by applying a voltage. A gas (e.g., hydrogen) may then break down as a function of pressure, distance, and voltage. An ionization or electron avalanche may then occur, which may produce a homogeneous discharge plasma confined to the central regions of the electrodes.

[0077] According to some aspects, by expanding the magnetic field 118, the transmitter 102 may inductively charge the receiving device 104 (smartphone, laptop, electric toothbrush, electric vehicle, biomedical implant device, drone, heated flip-flops, etc.). For example, the transmitter 102 may be used to charge a smartphone located across an office space or bedroom from the transmitter 102. The magnetic field 118 generated bythe transmitter 102 may induce a current in one or more coils of wire included in or associated with the receiving device 104. For example, in inductive coil of the receiving device 104 may be excited by the magnetic field 118 generated by the transmitter 102 to provide power to the receiving device 104, e.g., capacitor-generated power, available power, battery power, etc.

[0078] FIG. 2 shows a flow chart of an example method 200. The method 200 may be performed by a device (e.g., transmitter 102). For example, the device may be a wireless charging device. According to some aspects, at step 202, a capacitor (e.g., capacitor 110) may be charged by a voltage source (e.g., voltage source 106). For example, the voltage source may be an alternating current voltage source. According to some aspects, step 202 may be optional if the voltage source (e.g., voltage source 106) provides sufficient voltage and / or amperage without the need to accumulate electrical energy in a capacitor. For example, the voltage source (e.g., voltage source 106) may comprise one or more of a distribution or transmission line (e.g., voltage and amperage supplied by a power grid to a pole transformer), a battery power supply, a wind power supply, and / or a solar power supply.

[0079] At step 204, a switch (e.g., switch 114) may repetitively connect an inductor to the charged capacitor (e.g., inductor 112 connected in parallel to capacitor 110) or the switch (e.g., switch 114) may repetitively connect the inductor directly to the voltage source (e.g., if the voltage source is sufficiently high to directly charge the inductor). Connecting the inductor (e.g., inductor 112) to the voltage source (e.g., voltage source 106) or capacitor (e.g., capacitor 110) may charge the inductor (e.g., inductor 112). A resonance may be formed through a movement of electrical charge among the capacitor (e.g., capacitor 110) and the inductor (e.g., inductor 112). For example, the switch may be a plasma switch or a series of semiconductor switches (e.g., inductor 112 may be shorted by plasma 117). Moreover, shorting the charged inductor (e.g., inductor 112) may include compressing a current flowing through the charged inductor (e.g., inductor 112) into a subset of coils of the inductor (e.g., inductor 112).

[0080] At step 206, the inductor (e.g., inductor 112) may generate a pulsatory electromagnetic field (e.g., magnetic field 118). The generated magnetic field (e.g., magnetic field 118) may expand as the charged inductor (e.g., inductor 112) is shorted with the plasma (e.g., plasma 117). The plasma (e.g., plasma 117) may be generated by an electric power source, such as a switched high voltage source (e.g., a voltage source to a power pole transformer). The pulsatory magnetic field (e.g., magnetic field 118) may bebased, at least in part, on the resonance and may include a plurality of magnetic fields generated each time the inductor (e.g., inductor 112) is shorted (e.g., a first magnetic field and a second magnetic field). For example, the inductor (e.g., inductor 112) may be charged with the capacitor (e.g., capacitor 110) and may be shorted by a first plasma (e.g., plasma117). As the charged inductor (e.g., inductor 112) is shorted, a current flowing through the charged inductor (e.g., inductor 112) into a subset of coils of the inductor (e.g., inductor112) may generate a first magnetic field (e.g., magnetic field 118). The inductor (e.g., inductor 112) may be recharged with the capacitor (e.g., capacitor 110) and shorted by a second plasma (e.g., plasma 117). As the recharged inductor (e.g., inductor 112) is shorted, a current flowing through the recharged inductor (e.g., inductor 112) into a subset of coils of the inductor (e.g., inductor 112) may generate a second magnetic field (e.g., magnetic field118). At step 208, the electromagnetic field (e.g., magnetic field 118) may induce a current in a receiving device (e.g., receiving device 104). For example, the receiving device may be a smartphone or a medical implant device and the induced current may charge or power the receiving device.

[0081] FIG. 3 illustrates a system 300 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. According to some aspects, a primary coil 310 (e.g., a 16” diameter coil comprising 9 turns) may be charged by introducing a current into the primary coil. As current flows through the primary coil, a magnetic field may build around the primary coil 310. According to some aspects, a rate of change of the supplied current or the inherent resistance of the primary coil 310 may affect the charging of the primary coil 310. The energy stored in the primary coil 310 may remain until the current ceases or is redirected. The charged primary coil 310 may repeatedly undergo a turn-to-turn electrical cascade failure. The inductance or measure of an ability of the primary coil 310 to store magnetic energy may be defined by one or more factors, such as a number of turns in the primary coil 310 (e.g., 9 turns), a cross-sectional area of the primary coil 310, a type of core material, and / or a physical configuration of the primary coil 310.

[0082] According to some aspects, a power supply 302 (e.g., a 7.2kW, 15kV+ Variable DC Power Supply with PFC) may charge the primary coil 310. The power supply 302 may convert electrical energy from one form to another, e.g., from alternating current (AC) from the mains to a regulated direct current (DC). For example, the primary coil 310 may be connected across output terminals of the power supply 302, e.g., providing a voltage that drives a current through the primary coil 310. As current flows through the primary coil 310, a magnetic field is generated around it, storing energy in the magnetic field. The rate ofcurrent increase or the rate of charging the primary coil 310 may be dependent on the inductance of the primary coil 310 and the voltage applied by the power supply 302. Electrical energy may continue to be stored in the primary coil 310 until the current reaches a steady state, e.g., as determined by the resistance in the circuit and the inductance of the primary coil 310.

[0083] According to some aspects, the power supply 302 may provide electrical energy to a switched capacitor 304 (e.g., a ,05uF, lOOkV AC Rated HF Capacitor Bank) and the switched capacitor 304 bank may supply electrical energy to the primary coil 310. The switched capacitor 304 may comprise an electrical circuit configuration that uses a set of capacitors which may be selectively connected in series or parallel through switches to adjust a total capacitance and an output voltage level. The switched capacitor 304 may be charged by the power supply 302 to a desired voltage. The capacitors of the switched capacitor 304 may be connected in parallel to maximize total capacitance and ensure each capacitor charges to the same voltage level as the power supply 302. Once charged, the configuration of the switched capacitor 304 may be switched (e.g., to a series arrangement) to increase the output voltage. The increased output voltage may then be applied to the primary coil 310. As the switched capacitor 304 is discharged into the primary coil 310, the sudden influx of electrical energy may create a rapidly changing current, inducing a strong magnetic field within the primary coil 310. The switching sequence, timing, and the switched capacitor 304 configuration may be precisely controlled to optimize energy transfer to the primary coil 310 and achieve the desired operational characteristics.

[0084] A controller 306 may control the electrical energy supplied to and from the switched capacitor 304. For example, the controller 306 may open or close solenoids to charge or discharge the capacitor. The controller 306 may comprise a microcontroller or a programmable logic controller (PLC) integrated with power electronics, such as transistors or relays, for high-current switching. The controller 306 may be programmed to manage the timing and sequence of opening and closing the solenoids, which may act as electronically controlled switches. When charging the switched capacitor 304, the controller 306 may activate a solenoid to close the circuit, allowing current from the power source to flow into the switched capacitor 304. The controller 306 may monitor parameters such as voltage and charge time to optimize the charging process. For discharging, the controller 306 may open the circuit's charging path and close the path to the load, typically through another solenoid, allowing the stored energy in the switched capacitor 304 to be rapidly released to the coil.

[0085] A transformer 308 may accept voltage supplied from the controller 306 (e.g., 240 volts) and increase the supplied voltage (e.g., to 14,000 volts). Moreover, the transformer 308 may be coupled with a rectifier circuit. The transformer 308 (e.g., coupled with the rectifier circuit) may increase and convert alternating current (AC) voltage from the controller 306 to a higher AC voltage and then to direct current (DC) voltage. For example, the transformer 308 may comprise two coils of wire, a first coil and a second coil, wound around a magnetic core. The first coil may receive a lower AC voltage from the controller 306. A higher AC voltage may be induced in the second coil, where the voltage increase is proportional to a ratio of the number of turns in the second coil to that in the first coil. This stepped-up AC voltage may then be fed into a rectifier circuit. The rectifier circuit may comprise diodes arranged in a bridge configuration, which may effectively convert the AC voltage to DC. The rectifier circuit may allow current to pass through the diodes during one half of each AC cycle and block current during the other half of each AC cycle, thereby producing a unidirectional flow of current (e.g., DC current).

[0086] According to some aspects, power supply 302 may directly charge the primary coil 310, e.g., without a need for one or more of the switched capacitor 304, controller 306, and / or transformer 308. Moreover, power supply 302 may comprise any source of electricity (e.g., voltage or amperage) capable of charging the primary coil 310. For example, the power supply 302 may comprise any sufficiently high-power supply, such as a generator charging the primary coil 310 or a battery charging the primary coil 310.

[0087] As another example, rather than stepping up voltage from standard electrical sources using a capacitor (e.g., switched capacitor 304), the primary coil 310 may be directly charged by high voltage and amperage electricity, such as electricity used in electrical transmission lines. Electrical systems intended for general consumption in a residential or commercial setting may provide 240 volts of electricity, which may then be elevated to a much higher voltage to charge the primary coil 310 and / or to create plasma to short the charged primary coil 310. However, according to some aspects, a device of the present disclosure may be integrated into the power grid and may directly utilize high- voltage power to charge the primary coil 310 and / or to create plasma to short the charged primary coil 310. For example, pole transformers in power grids may deliver electricity at voltages ranging from 12,000 to 30,000 volts. This high-voltage power, available before being stepped down for general consumption, may be directly utilized to charge the primary coil 310 and / or to create plasma without the need for intermediate steps of voltage elevation.

[0088] The primary coil 310 may be housed within a vacuum chamber 320 (e.g., an acrylic chamber). The vacuum chamber 320 may comprise one or more inlets. A vacuum pump 322 (e.g., a 2-stage vacuum pump) may be used to pressurize the vacuum chamber 320. The vacuum pump 322 may remove gas molecules from the vacuum chamber 320 to create a partial or complete vacuum within the vacuum chamber 320. The vacuum pump 322 may be used indirectly to pressurize the vacuum chamber 320 by creating a vacuum and then allowing the vacuum chamber 320 to be filled with a specific gas (e.g., argon) under pressure. Initially, the vacuum pump 322 may evacuate air or other gases from the vacuum chamber 320, reducing the internal pressure and creating a vacuum. Once the desired vacuum level is achieved, the vacuum pump 322 may be isolated from the vacuum chamber 320 and a controlled amount of a gas (e.g., argon) may be introduced into the evacuated vacuum chamber 320. The introduction of the gas (e.g., argon) may increase the internal pressure of the vacuum chamber 320 to a predetermined level.

[0089] A vacuum gauge 324 (e.g., a DigiVac Bullseye Precision Vacuum gauge) may be used to measure the pressure within the vacuum chamber 320. The vacuum gauge 324 may indicate the extent to which the internal pressure of the vacuum chamber 320 has been reduced below ambient atmospheric pressure. This vacuum gauge 324 may measure pressure within the vacuum chamber 320 based on thermal conductivity of gases, ionization of gases, or mechanical displacement, depending on the specific type of gauge and the range of vacuum it is designed to measure. The vacuum gauge 324 may be connected to the vacuum chamber 320, either directly or via a sensing line. As the vacuum chamber 320 is evacuated, the vacuum gauge 324 may detect changes in pressure and provide a readout, which may be analog or digital. The readout may be calibrated in units of pressure, such as torr, millibar, or Pascal.

[0090] A gas supply 326 (e.g., a regulated argon supply) may be used to supply gas to the pressurized vacuum chamber 320. The gas supply 326 may comprise a high- pressure container filled with argon gas, a noble gas providing an inert atmosphere. To supply gas to the pressurized vacuum chamber 320, the gas supply 326 may further comprise a regulator and a valve to control the flow and pressure of the gas released. The regulator may be adjusted to match the desired pressure for the vacuum chamber 320, taking into account specifications of the vacuum chamber 320 and required operating conditions. Once the vacuum chamber 320 is evacuated to remove contaminants and achieve a low- pressure environment, a valve on the gas supply 326 may opened, allowing the gas to flow through a connecting hose or piping. The regulated flow of argon may enter the vacuumchamber 320, gradually increasing the internal pressure of the vacuum chamber 320 to the required level.

[0091] Exemplary test equipment for gathering data (e.g., regarding electrical energy transmissions 330) may comprise one or more of an oscilloscope 332 (e.g., a 200MHz, IG / s Digital Oscilloscope), a monopole antenna 334 (e.g., a 24” monopole antenna), a loop antenna 336 (e.g., a 17” Diameter Magnetic Loop Antenna w / lk Ohm Termination), and / or a magnetic field sensor 338 (e.g., a Magnetic Sciences MC910 Sensor). The oscilloscope 332 may graphically display signal voltages over time, either through a cathode ray tube or via a digital display, enabling examination of waveform characteristics electrical energy transmissions 330, such as amplitude, frequency, phase, and modulation.

[0092] The monopole antenna 334 may comprise a single straight rod or wire, e.g., mounted perpendicularly over a ground plane or conductive surface. The length of the monopole antenna 334, for example, may be a quarter wavelength of the frequency it is intended to receive. In measuring electrical energy transmissions 330, the monopole antenna 334 may function as a receiver by resonating at the frequency of the electromagnetic waves that it detects. When the electromagnetic waves impinge upon the monopole antenna 334, they may induce an electrical current in the monopole antenna 334. The induced electrical current in the monopole antenna 334 may be measured, where the strength and characteristics of the induced electrical current may provide information about the power, frequency, phase, and other properties of the electrical energy transmissions 330.

[0093] The magnetic loop antenna 336 may comprise a small loop of wire or a coil. The magnetic loop antenna 336 may be predominantly responsive to the magnetic component of the electrical energy transmissions 330. The loop (e.g., a single turn or a few turns of conductor) may form a closed circuit and may be tuned to resonate at a specific frequency using a variable capacitor. The magnetic loop antenna 336 may couple to the magnetic field of the electrical energy transmissions 330 within its vicinity, inducing a current within the loop. This induced current may be a function of the magnetic field strength of the incident wave, and thus, by measuring this current, the properties of the electromagnetic field, such as power density, frequency, and phase may be determined.

[0094] The magnetic field sensor 338, or magnetometer, may be used to measure the strength and direction of magnetic fields associated with the electrical energy transmissions 330. The magnetic field sensor 338 may detect and quantify the magnetic fields produced by electric currents. By placing the magnetic field 338 sensor near thesource of transmission of the electrical energy transmissions 330 or along a path of the electrical energy transmissions 330, the magnetic field sensor 338 may detect changes in the magnetic field. The detected changes in the magnetic field may be correlated to the magnitude, frequency, and phase of the current and, by extension, the electrical energy transmissions 330.

[0095] As illustrated in FIG. 4, an exemplary test procedure 400 may comprise one or more of the following steps:

[0096] Step 402. Set the power supply to output a voltage (e.g., 15.2kV DC);

[0097] Step 404. Charge capacitors and discharge capacitors into the primary coil;

[0098] Step 406. Capture control sample wave-forms using magnetic loop antenna and magnetic probe sensors, e.g., at 1’, 6’, 11’ and 16’ (5 foot increments);

[0099] Step 408. Evacuate vacuum chamber (e.g., to 1.5 torr);

[0100] Step 410. Introduce Argon gas into the vacuum chamber until it reaches atmospheric pressure (e.g., 785 torr);

[0101] Step 412. Evacuate chamber to a test vacuum of 2 torr;

[0102] Step 414. Charge capacitors and discharge capacitors into the primary coil;; and

[0103] Step 416. Screen capture wave-forms of the test sample using magnetic loop antenna and magnetic probe sensors, e.g., 5’ increments at 1’, 6’, 11’ and 16’.

[0104] Step 402 of the test procedure 400 may comprise setting the power supply to output a voltage (e.g., 15.2 kV DC). The power supply may be configured to output a specific voltage or a voltage setting of the power supply may be adjusted (e.g., through a control interface).

[0105] Step 404 of the test procedure 400 may comprise charging the capacitors and discharging the capacitors into the primary coil. According to some aspects, the power supply may charge the capacitors to the voltage (e.g., 15.2 kV DC). The capacitors, acting as temporary energy storage devices, may accumulate electrical energy during this charging phase. Once the capacitors reach their full charge, the capacitors may be discharged (e.g., manually or through a pre-programmed control sequence) to release the stored electrical energy into the Primary Coil. This discharge process involves a rapid transfer of energy from the capacitors to the Primary Coil, creating a magnetic field within the Primary Coil. According to some aspects, the power supply may directly charge the Primary Coil (e.g., without the need to accumulate electrical energy).

[0106] Step 406 of the test procedure 400 may comprise capturing control sample waveforms using a magnetic loop antenna and magnetic probe sensors, e.g., positioned at distances of 1', 6', 11', and 16' from the source of the electromagnetic emission, which are increments of 5 feet. The magnetic loop antenna and the magnetic probe sensors may be activated to detect and record the magnetic field emissions generated during the test, specifically after the discharge of the capacitors into the primary coil (e.g., step 404). The magnetic loop antenna and the magnetic probe sensors may capture the waveform characteristics of the magnetic field at each specified distance. The collected control sample waveforms may include amplitude, frequency, phase, and other relevant waveform attributes. The arrangement of sensors at incremental distances may facilitate analysis of how the magnetic field strength and waveform characteristics diminish or change with increasing distance from the source. Moreover, the control sample waveforms may provide information regarding the propagation and attenuation of the magnetic field in space. The control sample waveforms may provide data for evaluation of the primary coil’s electromagnetic behavior under test conditions and a baseline for further comparative analysis and assessment.

[0107] Step 408 of the test procedure 400 may comprise evacuating a vacuum chamber, e.g., to a pressure of 1.5 torr. The vacuum chamber may be evacuated by a vacuum pump. Pressure readings of the vacuum chamber may be monitored using a vacuum gauge. Upon achieving a vacuum level, the pump may be automatically shut off by a control system or manually turned off by an operator. The vacuum level may ensure a controlled environment free from air-borne contaminants or interference that could affect the accuracy of the test results.

[0108] Step 410 of the test procedure 400 may comprise introducing Argon gas into the previously evacuated vacuum chamber until it reaches atmospheric pressure (e.g., 785 torr). For example, after achieving the target vacuum of 1.5 torr in step 4, the vacuum chamber may be ready for the controlled infusion of Argon, a chemically inert gas. Argon may be introduced by opening a valve of the Argon gas supply, allowing the gas to flow into the vacuum chamber. The flow rate may be regulated to ensure a gradual increase in pressure, and may be monitored using a pressure gauge connected to the chamber. As the Argon gas enters the vacuum chamber, the pressure inside the chamber may increase until the internal pressure reaches standard atmospheric pressure, and the gas supply may be shut off.

[0109] Step 412 of the test procedure 400 may comprise evacuating the vacuum chamber (e.g., now filled with Argon gas) down to a specific test vacuum level (e.g., 2 torr). The vacuum pump, re-engaged for this purpose, may remove the Argon gas from the chamber. The vacuum gauge may provide feedback on the internal pressure levels.

[0110] Step 414 of the test procedure 400 may comprise activating the power supply to charge the capacitors and then discharging the capacitors into the primary coil, e.g., similar to Step 404 but under the conditions established within the vacuum chamber in Step 408, Step 410, and Step 412. The power supply, set to the required voltage (e.g., 15.2 kV DC), may be activated, initiating the charging of the capacitors. The capacitors, when fully charged, may store the electrical energy which is then released rapidly into the primary coil upon discharging.

[0111] Step 416 of the test procedure 400 may comprise capturing waveforms for a test sample, utilizing the magnetic loop antenna and magnetic probe sensors (e.g., positioned at 1’, 6’, 11’, and 16’increments from the primary coil). The magnetic loop antenna and magnetic probe sensors may detect and capture the magnetic field emissions generated by the primary coil. The captured data may comprise the waveform characteristics of the magnetic field, including information such as amplitude, frequency, phase, and other relevant waveform attributes under the vacuum conditions of the vacuum chamber. The captured test waveforms may be used for a comparative analysis between the control sample waveforms captured in Step 406. The variance in waveforms captured at different distances may provide data regarding the propagation characteristics and the influence of the vacuum environment on the magnetic field generated by the primary coil.

[0112] As illustrated in the captured waveforms of FIGS. 5A-5H, a magnetic loop antenna may produce a current through a terminating resistor and waveforms associated with a voltage drop across the resistor may be captured by an oscilloscope.

[0113] FIGS. 5A, 5C, 5E, and 5G illustrate exemplary control data captured at atmospheric conditions. Each waveform of the exemplary control data (e.g., FIGS. 5A, 5C, 5E, and 5G) shows the characteristic magnetic pulse and is captured at respectively increasing distances (e.g., in 5’ increments). For example, FIG. 5A illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 1’ from the primary coil, FIG. 5C illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 6’ from the primary coil, FIG. 5E illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 11’ from the primary coil, and FIG. 5G illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 16’ from the primary coil,. Moreover, each waveform of the exemplary controldata (e.g., FIGS. 5A, 5C, 5E, and 5G) comprises a resonant ring down (e.g., diminishing sine waves) that reduces in amplitude as distance from the primary coil is increased.

[0114] FIGS. 5B, 5D, 5F, and 5H illustrate exemplary test data captured at test conditions (e.g., vacuum chamber filled with Argon gas at a test vacuum level of 2 torr). Each waveform of the exemplary test data (e.g., FIGS. 5B, 5D, 5F, and 5H) demonstrates the effect of a “cascaded failure” of the primary coil and is captured at respectively increasing distances (e.g., in 5’ increments). For example, FIG. 5B illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 1’ from the primary coil, FIG. 5D illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 6’ from the primary coil, FIG. 5F illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 11’ from the primary coil, and FIG. 5H illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 16’ from the primary coil. Moreover, each waveform of the exemplary test data (e.g., FIGS. 5B, 5D, 5F, and 5H) shows a relative lack of resonant ring down and an increased magnetic pulse that is present at greater distances than the corresponding control data (e.g., FIGS. 5A, 5C, 5E, and 5G). This relative lack of ring down is further evidenced by the respective waveforms of FIGS. 7A and 7B, where FIG. 7A illustrates a control waveform including significant resonant ring down and FIG. 7B illustrates test data including a relative lack of resonant ring down.

[0115] As illustrated in the captured waveforms of FIGS. 6A-6I, a magnetic probe sensor connected to a monopole antenna may produce a voltage output that is a time- derivative of a magnetic field associated with the electrical transmissions and waveforms associated with the voltage output may be captured by an oscilloscope. Moreover, FIG. 61 illustrates an exemplary identification of portions of the oscilloscope trace of the waveforms representing a pulse produced by an initial capacitor discharge, as well as magnetic fields not under study (e.g., captured due to sensitivity of the magnetic probe sensor).

[0116] FIGS. 6 A, 6C, 6E, and 6G illustrate exemplary control data captured at atmospheric conditions. Each waveform of the exemplary control data (e.g., FIGS. 6A, 6C, 6E, and 6G) shows the characteristic magnetic pulse and is captured at respectively increasing distances (e.g., in 6’ increments). For example, FIG. 6A illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 1’ from the primary coil, FIG. 6C illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 6’ from the primary coil, FIG. 6E illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 11’ from the primary coil, and FIG. 6G illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 16’ from the primary coil,. Moreover, each waveform of the exemplary control data (e.g., FIGS. 6A, 6C, 6E, and 6G) comprises a resonant ring down. The resonant ringdown may not be visible because it may be too fast (e.g., 126kHz) to be seen at test oscilloscope settings.

[0117] FIGS. 6B, 6D, 6F, and 6H illustrates exemplary test data captured at test conditions (e.g., vacuum chamber filled with Argon gas at a test vacuum level of 2 torr). Each waveform of the exemplary test data (e.g., FIGS. 6B, 6D, 6F, and 6H) demonstrates the effect of a “cascaded failure” of the primary coil and is captured at respectively increasing distances (e.g., in 6’ increments). For example, FIG. 6B illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 1’ from the primary coil, FIG. 6D illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 6’ from the primary coil, FIG. 6F illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 11’ from the primary coil, and FIG. 6H illustrates a waveform captured at a distance of 16’ from the primary coil. Moreover, each waveform of the exemplary test data (e.g., FIGS. 6B, 6D, 6F, and 6H) shows the increased magnetic pulse that is present at greater distances than the corresponding control data (e.g., FIGS. 6A, 6C, 6E, and 6G).

[0118] As illustrated in FIGS. 7 A AND 7B, a 24” mono-pole antenna may receive an electromagnetic signal that is fed to an oscilloscope for waveform capture and analysis. FIG. 7A illustrates a non-cascading waveform demonstrating typical capacitor discharge into an inductor and a resulting resonant ring-down. FIG. 7B illustrates a cascading waveform demonstrating a relative absence of resonant ring-down.

[0119] In an aspect of the present disclosure, a wireless power transfer system is described herein. The wireless power transfer system can include a transistor array that are connected in parallel to a power source. The power source can be a high voltage power source, such as a power mains, capable of outputting high voltage power (e.g., approximately 14 kV). The transistor array can be controlled by a controller, which can be capable of simultaneously activating the transistors of the transistor array. By simultaneously activating the transistor array, the high voltage power of the power source can be converted into current pulses, which can then be transferred to an LC circuit. The LC circuit can store and generate a changing magnetic field (e.g, a magnetic flux). The magnetic field flux can induce a current of a corresponding receiver. The receiver can be a wireless receiver (e.g., not wired to the LC circuit), and can therefore receive power wirelessly from the wireless power transfer system. Further, the wireless power transfer system can receive voltage power without the need of a transformer to condition the inputted current, which can reduce expense and the area footprint of the wireless power transfer system

[0120] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the wireless power transfer system can increase the magnetic flux generated by the LC circuit by causing physicalshorting along the inductor. The inductor can include a number of coils or other distinct regions across the inductor, each coil or region carrying an electrical field. The environment around the inductor can be manipulated (e.g., changing the conductivity of the ambient environment), which can facilitate a physical, electrical shorting (e.g., arcing) from one coil or region to another coil or region. This physical shorting can cause a rapid change in the electrical field of the inductor, which can result in a rapid change in the corresponding magnetic field of the inductor. The resulting magnetic flux can thus be increased by this shorting, which can increase the wireless power transfer to a corresponding receiver.

[0121] FIG. 10 shows a wireless power transfer system 1000 according to the present disclosure. The system 1000 can include a transistor array 1005, a controller 1010, and a transmitter circuit 1015, and can in some cases be a transmitter or transmitting device. The system 1000 can be configured to receive current from a power source 1025, which may or may not be a part of the wireless power transfer system 1000. The power source 1025 can include a high voltage power source. For example, the power source 1025 can be a power mains. The power 1025 can be configured to send high voltage power to downstream components of the wireless power transfer system 1000. The high voltage power can include, for example, 14.4 kV to the wireless power transfer system 1000. However, one skilled in the art will understand that the power provided can vary. For example, the power source can provide between 3 kV and 8 kV, between 5 kV and 10 kV, between 8 kV and 13 kV, between 10 kV and 15 kV, between 12 kV and 17 kV, between 14 kV and 19 kV, between 16 kV and 21 kV, between 18 kV and 23 kV between 20 kV and 25 kV, between 22 kV and 27 kV, between 24 kV and 29 kV, between 26 kV and 31 kV, etc. Further, the power provided by the power source 1025 can be alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). In some cases, the power source 1025 can include a distribution or transmission line. For example, the power source can include voltage and amperage supplied by a power grid to a pole transformer. In some cases, the power source can include any source of sufficiently high voltage and amperage, such as one or more of a battery, wind, or solar power supply.

[0122] As shown in the system 1000, the power source 1025 can provide AC. The wireless power transfer system 1000 may include a rectifier circuit 1030, which can convert the AC received from the power source 1025 to DC. However, one skilled in the art will understand that, in cases where the power source 1025 is DC, the rectifier circuit 1000 may be removed. The rectifier circuit 1025 can be a bridge rectifier. The rectifier circuit 1025 can be a diode bridge rectifier. The rectifier circuit 1025 can be, such as that shown in the system 1000, a 4-diode bridge rectifier. However, one skilled in the art will understand that different circuits can be implemented for conditioning the power received from the power source 1025. For example in cases where the wireless transfer power system 1000 isconfigured for converting AC into wireless power transmission and the power source is DC, the wireless power transfer system 1000 may include a DC-to-AC converter (e.g., an inverter) in lieu of the rectifier circuit 1025.

[0123] Following the example of FIG. 10, the current conditioned by the rectifier circuit 1025 can pass to the transistor array 1005. The transistor array 1005 can include a plurality of transistors. For example, FIG. 10 shows transistors 1006-a - 1006-n. The transistors can include an activated state and a deactivated state. In the deactivated state (e.g., an OFF state), a transistor may block current received from the power source 1025 (e.g., via the rectifier circuit 1030). In the activated state (e.g., an ON state), a transistor may pass the current received from the power source 1025 downstream to other components of the wireless power transfer system 1000.

[0124] While the transistor array 1005 shows a number of transistors 1006, one skilled in the art will understand that transistor array can include a variety of number of transistors 1006. For example, the transistor array 1005 can include between 2 and 10 transistors, between 5 and 13 transistors, between 7 and 15 transistors, between 9 and 17 transistors, between 11 and 19 transistors, between 13 and 21 transistors, between 15 and 23 transistors, between 17 and 25 transistors, etc.

[0125] In some cases, the transistors 1006 can be thyristors. However, other transistors can be included in the transistor array 1005. For example, the transistor array 1005 can include MOSFETs, bipolar junction transistors (BJPs), field effect transistors (FETs), insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), etc. In some cases, the transistor array 1005 can include controllable switches or gates.

[0126] The transistors 1006 can be electrically coupled (e.g., wired) to the power source 1025. The transistors 1006 can be coupled to the power source 1025 in parallel with each other. Further, each of the transistors 1006 of the transistor array 1005 can be electrically coupled to a controller 1010. For example, the controller 1010 can be electrically coupled (e.g., wired) to gates or control electrodes of respective transistors 1006. The controller 1010 can send electrical signals to each transistor 1006 of the transistor array 1005, which can activate the transistor 1006. Each transistor of the transistor array 1005 can default to the inactivated state. Thus, the transistor array 1005 can block current from the power source 1025 while inactive, and pass current when activated by receiving signals from the controller 1010.

[0127] The controller 1010 can be configured to activate the transistors of the transistor array 1005 for a predetermined period of time. For example, the controller 1010can configure the activated state of a respective transistor to last a predetermined time period (e.g., 5 ms). Further, the controller 1010 can configure an activation cycle for a respective transistor, where the controller 1010 activates a transistor of the transistor array 1005 every n ms (e.g., every 20 ms). In some cases, the controller 1010 can configure the activation of a transistor according to a predetermined duty cycle for the transistor. An example circuit diagram 1100 for a controller 1010 is shown in FIG. 11, according to the present disclosure.

[0128] The controller 1010 can activate each transistor of the transistor array 1005 simultaneously. For example, the controller 1010 can send a signal, which can be sent to each of the transistors 1006 of the transistor array 1005 (e.g., via the gates of the respective transistors). Each transistor 1006 can receive the signal and activate simultaneously. Thus, the transistors 1006 of the transistor array 1005 can activate (e.g., transition to the ON state) simultaneously with respect to each other. In some cases, the signal can be received by respective transformers 1035 of the controller 1010. Each transformer 1035 can correspond to a respective transistor 1006 of the transistor array 1005 (e.g., n number of transformers for n number of transistors). In some cases, the transformers 1035 can be toroidal transformers. Each transformer 1035 can receive the signal from a trigger circuit of the controller 1010, can condition the signal, and can send the signal (e.g., the activation signal) to the gate of the respective transistor 1006.

[0129] By activating and deactivating the transistor array 1005, the system can generate current pulses that are send to the transmitter circuit 1015. The current pulses can be according to the duty cycle (e.g., ON / OFF cycle) caused by the activation signals of the controller 1010.

[0130] When the transistor array 1005 is activated, the transistors can pass current received from the power source 1025 to the transmitter circuit 1015. In some cases, the transmitter circuit 1015 can include an LC circuit. In some cases, the transmitter circuit 1015 can include a tank circuit. The transmitter circuit 1015, as shown in FIG. 10, can include a first capacitor 1016 and an inductor 1017. The first capacitor 1016 can receive the current passed by the transistor array 1005. The first capacitor 1016 can store and induce current through the inductor 1017. The increasing and decreasing current through the inductor 1017 can cause a magnetic flux, which can induce a current in a corresponding receiver circuit 1040, as shown in FIG. 12. Further, in some cases a second capacitor 1018 can also be included in the transmitter circuit 1015. The second capacitor 1018 can bedisposed such that current from the inductor 1017 does not leak out to the transistor array 1005.

[0131] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the inductor 1017 of the transmitter circuit 1015 can experience physical shorting, which can increase the magnetic flux generated by the transmitter circuit 1015. For example, the inductor 1017 can include a number of coils, such as a first coil 1301, a second coil 1302, and a third coil 1303. However, one skilled in the art will understand that the number of coils can vary based on the desired inductor length, size, induction, etc.

[0132] The inductor 1317 can carry a current that passes through each of the coils of the inductor, the current of the inductor 1017 is supplied by the first capacitor 1016. The current carried by the first coil 1301 can be shorted to the adjacent, second coil 1302. This shorting can be caused by the environment surrounding the coils, the current pulses generated by the transistor array 1305, etc. For example, the environment surrounding the coils can include a fluid (e.g., hydrogen) that increases the electrical conductivity of the ambient environment. As the current through the inductor 1017 increases (e.g., due to the current pulses), the charge buildup along the first coil 1301 may increase to a point where a least path of electrical resistance occurs through the ambient environment. An electrical discharge 1310 can occur from the first coil 1301 to the second coil 1302. Similarly, an electrical discharge 1311 can occur from charge buildup from the second coil 1302 (e.g., in some cases, due in part to the electrical discharge 1310 from the first coil 1301).

[0133] As the inductor 1017 is short-circuited, a magnetic field can form around the inductor in a manner that lengthens or extends commensurate with the short circuiting. For example, an inductor having a length of ten feet can form a magnetic field (e.g., around the inductor) that is two inches in diameter, an inductor that is five feet long may form a magnetic field that is four inches in diameter, an inductor that in two and a half feet long may form a magnetic field that is eight inches in diameter, etc. As the length of the inductor approaches zero, the magnetic field can approach an infinitely long diameter.

[0134] The electrical discharges along the inductor 1017 can significantly increase the magnetic flux of the inductor 1017. For example, the electrical discharges can occur over a short period of time (e.g., 5 ms). The electrical field of the inductor 1017 can thus significantly compress (e.g., along the length of the inductor 1017), which can result in a significant increase in the magnetic field along perpendicular direction (e.g., perpendicular to the length of the inductor 1017). This increase in magnetic field can allow for a greater distance to be included between the transmitter circuit 1015 and the receiver circuit 1040,and / or a greater magnetic field to be experienced by the receiver circuit 1040. Additionally, the increase in magnetic field, over a short period of time, can significantly increase the magnetic flux generated by the transmitter circuit 1015, which can increase the electric current induced through the receiver circuit 1040. This increase in magnetic flux can therefore increase the power transfer potential of the system 1000.

[0135] Further, the receiver circuit 1040, while shown as an inductor, can include other components, such as a capacitor (e.g., to form a second LC circuit). The receiver circuit 1040 can be a part of a receiver, which can include a battery for electrical storage. The receiver can include a smartphone, laptop, electric toothbrush, electric vehicle, biomedical implant device, drone, heated flip-flops, etc.

[0136] FIG. 14 shows a system 1400 for wireless power transfer according to the present disclosure. The system 1400 can be configured to receive current from a power source 1425, which may or may not be a part of the wireless power transfer system 1400. The power source 1425 can include a high voltage power source. For example, the power source 1425 can be a power mains. The power source 1425 can be configured to send high voltage power to downstream components of the wireless power transfer system 1400. Further, the power provided by the power source 1425 can be alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). In some cases, the power source 1425 can include a distribution or transmission line. For example, the power source can include voltage and amperage supplied by a power grid to a pole transformer. In some cases, the power source can include any source of sufficiently high voltage and amperage, such as one or more of a battery, wind, or solar power supply. As a non-limiting example, the power source 1425 can provide 14.4 kVrms at 0.694 Arms, and between 50 and 60 Hz.

[0137] The wireless power transfer system 1400 may include a rectifier circuit 1430, which can convert the AC received from the power source 1425 to DC. However, one skilled in the art will understand that, in cases where the power source 1425 is DC, the rectifier circuit 1400 may be removed. The rectifier circuit 1425 can be a bridge rectifier. The rectifier circuit 1425 can be a diode bridge rectifier. The rectifier circuit 1425 can be, such as that shown in the system 1400, a 4-diode bridge rectifier. However, one skilled in the art will understand that different circuits can be implemented for conditioning the power received from the power source 1425. For example in cases where the wireless transfer power system 1400 is configured for converting AC into wireless power transmission and the power source is DC, the wireless power transfer system 1400 may include a DC-to-AC converter (e.g., an inverter) in lieu of the rectifier circuit 1425. As a non-limiting example,the input of the rectifier circuit 1430 can be 14.4kVrms at 60 Hz. The output of the rectifier circuit 1430 can be a 20.3 kV peak.

[0138] The wireless power transfer system 1400 can include a plurality of switching cells 1405. The switching cells 1405 can include a plurality of transistors. As a non-limiting example, the switching cells 1405 can include a plurality of MOSFETs (e.g., MOSFET-based high frequency transformers). The switching cells 1405 can include an activated state and a deactivated state. In the deactivated state (e.g., an OFF state), a corresponding switching cell may block current received from the power source 1425. In the activated state (e.g., an ON state), a switching cell may pass the current received from the power source 1405 downstream to other components of the wireless power transfer system 1400.

[0139] One skilled in the art will understand that the switching cells can include a variety of number switching cells. For example, the switching cells 1405 can include between 2 and 10 cells, between 5 and 13 cells, between 7 and 15 cells, between 9 and 17 cells, between 11 and 19 cells, between 13 and 21 cells, between 15 and 23 cells, between17 and 25 cells, etc.

[0140] Following the non-limiting example, the switching cells 1405 can include18 MOSFET-based high frequency transformer (HFT) driver boards. The HFTs can be connected to each other, such that the respective inputs are in series with one another. The switching cells 1405 can form a voltage divider. The voltage can be divided based on the number of switching cells included in the switching cells 1405. Further, the switching cells 1405 can condition the received current such that the outputted current can include a high frequency.

[0141] Continuing the above non-limiting example, the switching cells can include 18 MOSFET-based HFT driver boards, with the input of each driver board connected in series with the other driver boards. The inputted voltage can be that received from the rectifier circuit, which can be 20.3 kV DC. Each cell can receive 1 / 18thof the inputted voltage, that being 1.127 kV DC. Each driver board can output a high frequency 1.127 kV AC voltage, which can drive respective transformers of the switching cells. For example, the output from a driver board can be 350 kHZ, with a + / - 563.5 V peak sine wave. Thus the switching cells 1405 can modulate very large amounts of output power in proportion to the AC input waveform (e.g. from a power main).

[0142] The system 1400 can also include a controller 1410. The controller 1410 can be configured to activate the respective transistors of the switching cells 1405 for apredetermined period of time. For example, the controller 1410 can configure the activated state of a respective transistor to last a predetermined time period (e.g., 5 ms). Further, the controller 1410 can configure an activation cycle for a respective transistor, where the controller 1410 activates a transistor of the switching cells 1405 every n ms (e.g., every 20 ms). In some cases, the controller 1410 can configure the activation of a transistor according to a predetermined duty cycle for the transistor. An example circuit diagram 1500 for a controller 1410 is shown in FIG. 15, according to the present disclosure.

[0143] The controller 1410 can activate each transistor of the switching cells 1405 simultaneously. For example, the controller 1410 can send a signal, which can be sent to each of the transistors of the switching cells 1405 (e.g., via the gates of the respective transistors). Each transistor can receive the signal and activate simultaneously. Thus, the transistors of the switching cells 1405 can activate (e.g., transition to the ON state) simultaneously with respect to each other. In some cases, the signal can be received by respective transformers of the controller 1410. Each transformer can correspond to a respective transistor of the switching cells 1405 (e.g., n number of transformers for n number of transistors). In some cases, the transformers can be toroidal transformers. Each transformer can receive the signal from a trigger circuit of the controller 1410, can condition the signal, and can send the signal (e.g., the activation signal) to the gate of the respective transistor.

[0144] The controller 1410 can also perform other functions related to the switching cells 1405 as well. For example, the controller 1410 can generate and amplify the control signals for the transistors in the switching cells 1405. The controller 1410 can send these signals to the switching cells 1405 across the HV isolation barrier. The controller 1410 can measure the output of the corresponding transformers (e.g, 240 V AC). The controller 1410 can adapt the switching cells 1405 control signals according to loading conditions of the measure output. For example, heavy loads may sag the output, while light loads may cause over-voltage.

[0145] As discussed above, the switching cells 1405 can be in electrical communication with respective transformers 1440. Each transformer can include a primary coil and a secondary coil. The primary coil of a respective transformer can be in electrical communication with a corresponding switching cell of the switching cells 1405. Thus, the primary coil of a first transformer can be wiredly connected to a first switching cell of the switching cells 1405, and can receive the outputted voltage of the first switching cell (e.g., + / - 563.5 V peak AC).

[0146] The primary coils can each be a coil with a number of windings. The secondary coils can also be a coil with a number of windings. The characteristics of a given primary coil (e.g., number of windings, wire gauge, total length of the coil, etc.) may be different than the characteristics of the respective secondary coil. The primary coil may generate an electromagnetic flux, which may be received by the secondary coil. The flux can cause a current to generated at the secondary coil. Following the above non-limiting example, a wire can be passed through the core of the transformers. If the transformers are actively driven with the full input voltage of + / - 563.5 V peak AC, the wire can receive + / - 8.4 V every time the wire passes through a transformer. Thus, in the case where he switching cell includes 18 transistors coupled to 18 transformers, the wire can receive + / - 151.2 V peak of high frequency voltage.

[0147] Further, the switching cells 1405 can experience additional gain, which can cause an increase in the respective outputs of the transformers. For example, the additional gain may be due to amplification via resonance in each switching cell, which may generate an output oof + / - 170 V peak of high frequency voltage, which can equate to 240 V rms.

[0148] An additional wire can be coupled to a middle region of the wire passing through the transformer cores. The additional wire can be coupled between transformer numbers 9 and 10 of the 18 transformers, which can provide a center-tap (e.g., an AC line neutral for the system 1400). Thus, the terminating ends of the first wire can experience + / - 120 V rms with respect to this neutral connection.

[0149] The terminating ends of the first wire can be coupled to other current modulators, which can condition the output according to the desired voltage / current requirements. For example, the output can be generated as high-frequency output. The ends of the first wire can be coupled to respective band-pass filters. For example, the ends of the first wire can be coupled to low-pass filters such that the outputs include 60 Hz outputs, which may mirror the original input from the power source. As a particular example shown in FIG. 14, the low-pass filters can include DC rectifier circuit, which then feeds the resulting DC signal into a small capacitor.

[0150] FIG. 16 shows a method 1600 for wireless power transfer according to the present disclosure. The method can be performed by a wireless power transfer system, such as system 1000 of FIG. 10 or system 1400 of FIG. 14.

[0151] At Step 1605, a power signal can be received from a power source. In some cases, the power can be a high voltage power signal. The power can in some cases be AC power.

[0152] At Step 1610, a transistor array in electrical communication with the power can be activated. Each transformer can correspond to a respective transistor of the transistor array. In some cases, the transformers can include a series of toroidal transformers. The activating can include simultaneously activating the transistor array. In some cases, the transistor array can include a plurality of thyristors. In some cases, the thyristors can be coupled to each other in parallel. In some cases, the activation can occur according to an activation frequency. In some cases, the transistor array can be deactivated, where the pulsed signals can be generated further based on the deactivating.

[0153] At Step 1615, a pulsed power signal can be received from the transistor array. The pulsed power signals can be received by an LC circuit. The pulsed power signals can induce current in the inductor of the LC circuit.

[0154] At Step 1620, an electromagnetic (EM) field can be generated. The generating can be based on the pulsed power signals. The generating can be performed by the LC circuit. The generated EM field can be transmitted to a receiving circuit. The transmitting can occur as wireless transmitting. The generated EM field can include an electric current through the receiving circuit, which can be stored as electrical charge for consumption by a corresponding device (e.g., a receiving device).

[0155] FIG. 17 shows a method 1700 for wireless power transfer according to the present disclosure. The method 1700 can be performed by a wireless power transfer system, such as system 1000 of FIG. 10 or system 1400 of FIG. 14.

[0156] At Step 1705, one or more power signals can be received by an inductor. The inductor can generate a magnetic potential from the one or more power signals. In some cases, the inductor can be a part of an LC circuit, where the power signals are received by the respective capacitor, and the stored charged of the capacitor induces current through the inductor. In some cases, the one or more power signals can be pulsed power signals generated by a transistor array.

[0157] At Step 1710, an electrical compression along the inductor can be caused. The electrical compression can occur along a direction associated with the inductor. The direction can be along a length of the inductor. In some cases, the electrical compression can be a short-circuiting of the charge of the inductor. In some cases the short circuiting can occur from a coil of the inductor to another coil of the inductor. In some cases the short-circuiting can be an electrical discharge (e.g., arcing) from one portion of the inductor to another. In some cases, the causing can include modifying the ambient environment surrounding the inductor, such as by altering the fluid composition, the pressure, etc. of the surrounding environment.

[0158] At Step 1715, an EM field can be generated based on the electrical compression. In some cases, the EM field can further generate a magnetic flux. The magnetic flux can be received by a corresponding receiver circuit. The magnetic flux can induce an electrical current through the receiver circuit. In some cases, the receiver circuit can store the electrical current in a battery for consumption by a receiver device (e.g., an electric vehicle).

[0159] FIG. 18 depicts a computing device that can be used in various aspects, such as the devices depicted in FIG. 10 or FIG. 14. With regard to the example architecture of FIG. 10, the processor 1010 can be implemented in an instance of a computing device 1800 of FIG. 18. The computer architecture shown in FIG. 18 shows a conventional server computer, workstation, desktop computer, laptop, tablet, network appliance, PDA, e-reader, digital cellular phone, or other computing node, and may be utilized to execute any aspects of the computers described herein, such as to implement the methods described in relation to FIG. 16 and 17.

[0160] The computing device 1800 may include a baseboard, or “motherboard,” which is a printed circuit board to which a multitude of components or devices may be connected by way of a system bus or other electrical communication paths. One or more central processing units (CPUs) 1804 may operate in conjunction with a chipset 1806. The CPU(s) 1804 may be standard programmable processors that perform arithmetic and logical operations necessary for the operation of the computing device 1800.

[0161] The CPU(s) 1804 may perform the necessary operations by transitioning from one discrete physical state to the next through the manipulation of switching elements that differentiate between and change these states. Switching elements may generally include electronic circuits that maintain one of two binary states, such as flip-flops, and electronic circuits that provide an output state based on the logical combination of the states of one or more other switching elements, such as logic gates. These basic switching elements may be combined to create more complex logic circuits including registers, adders- subtractors, arithmetic logic units, floating-point units, and the like.

[0162] The CPU(s) 1804 may be augmented with or replaced by other processing units, such as GPU(s) 1805. The GPU(s) 1805 may comprise processing units specializedfor but not necessarily limited to highly parallel computations, such as graphics and other visualization-related processing.

[0163] A user interface may be provided between the CPU(s) 1804 and the remainder of the components and devices on the baseboard. The interface may be used to access a random access memory (RAM) 1808 used as the main memory in the computing device 1800. The interface may be used to access a computer-readable storage medium, such as a read-only memory (ROM) 1820 or non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) (not shown), for storing basic routines that may help to start up the computing device 1800 and to transfer information between the various components and devices. ROM 1820 or NVRAM may also store other software components necessary for the operation of the computing device 1800 in accordance with the aspects described herein. The user interface may be provided by a one or more electrical components such as the chipset 1806.

[0164] The computing device 1800 may operate in a networked environment using logical connections to remote computing nodes and computer systems through local area network (LAN) 1816. The chipset 1806 may include functionality for providing network connectivity through a network interface controller (NIC) 1822, such as a gigabit Ethernet adapter. A NIC 1822 may be capable of connecting the computing device 1800 to other computing nodes over a network 1816. It should be appreciated that multiple NICs 1822 may be present in the computing device 1800, connecting the computing device to other types of networks and remote computer systems.

[0165] The computing device 1800 may be connected to a storage device 1828 that provides non-volatile storage for the computer. The storage device 1828 may store system programs, application programs, other program modules, and data, which have been described in greater detail herein. The storage device 1828 may be connected to the computing device 1800 through a storage controller 1824 connected to the chipset 1806. The storage device 1828 may consist of one or more physical storage units. A storage controller 1824 may interface with the physical storage units through a serial attached SCSI (SAS) interface, a serial advanced technology attachment (SATA) interface, a fiber channel (FC) interface, or other type of interface for physically connecting and transferring data between computers and physical storage units.

[0166] The computing device 1800 may store data on a storage device 1828 by transforming the physical state of the physical storage units to reflect the information being stored. The specific transformation of a physical state may depend on various factors and on different implementations of this description. Examples of such factors may include, but arenot limited to, the technology used to implement the physical storage units and whether the storage device 1828 is characterized as primary or secondary storage and the like.

[0167] For example, the computing device 1800 may store information to the storage device 1828 by issuing instructions through a storage controller 1824 to alter the magnetic characteristics of a particular location within a magnetic disk drive unit, the reflective or refractive characteristics of a particular location in an optical storage unit, or the electrical characteristics of a particular capacitor, transistor, or other discrete component in a solid-state storage unit. Other transformations of physical media are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present description, with the foregoing examples provided only to facilitate this description. The computing device 1800 may read information from the storage device 1828 by detecting the physical states or characteristics of one or more particular locations within the physical storage units.

[0168] In addition to the storage device 1828 described herein, the computing device 1100 may have access to other computer-readable storage media to store and retrieve information, such as program modules, data structures, or other data. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that computer-readable storage media may be any available media that provides for the storage of non-transitory data and that may be accessed by the computing device 1800.

[0169] By way of example and not limitation, computer-readable storage media may include volatile and non-volatile, transitory computer-readable storage media and non- transitory computer-readable storage media, and removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology. Computer-readable storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, erasable programmable ROM (“EPROM”), electrically erasable programmable ROM (“EEPROM”), flash memory or other solid-state memory technology, compact disc ROM (“CD-ROM”), digital versatile disk (“DVD”), high definition DVD (“HD-DVD”), BLU-RAY, or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage, other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that may be used to store the desired information in a non-transitory fashion.

[0170] A storage device, such as the storage device 1828 depicted in FIG. 18, may store an operating system utilized to control the operation of the computing device 1800. The operating system may comprise a version of the LINUX operating system. The operating system may comprise a version of the WINDOWS SERVER operating system from the MICROSOFT Corporation. According to additional aspects, the operating system may comprise a version of the UNIX operating system. Various mobile phone operatingsystems, such as IOS and ANDROID, may also be utilized. It should be appreciated that other operating systems may also be utilized. The storage device 1828 may store other system or application programs and data utilized by the computing device 1800.

[0171] The storage device 1828 or other computer-readable storage media may also be encoded with computer-executable instructions, which, when loaded into the computing device 1800, transforms the computing device from a general-purpose computing system into a special-purpose computer capable of implementing the aspects described herein. These computer-executable instructions transform the computing device 1800 by specifying how the CPU(s) 1804 transition between states, as described herein. The computing device 1800 may have access to computer-readable storage media storing computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by the computing device 1800, may perform the methods described in relation to FIGS. 16 and 17.

[0172] A computing device, such as the computing device 1800 depicted in FIG. 18, may also include an input / output controller 1832 for receiving and processing input from a number of input devices, such as a keyboard, a mouse, a touchpad, a touch screen, an electronic stylus, or other type of input device. Similarly, an input / output controller 1832 may provide output to a display, such as a computer monitor, a flat-panel display, a digital projector, a printer, a plotter, or other type of output device. It will be appreciated that the computing device 1800 may not include all of the components shown in FIG. 18, may include other components that are not explicitly shown in FIG. 18, or may utilize an architecture completely different than that shown in FIG. 18.

[0173] As described herein, a computing device may be a physical computing device, such as the computing device 1800 of FIG. 18. A computing node may also include a virtual machine host process and one or more virtual machine instances. Computerexecutable instructions may be executed by the physical hardware of a computing device indirectly through interpretation and / or execution of instructions stored and executed in the context of a virtual machine.

[0174] It is to be understood that the methods and systems are not limited to specific methods, specific components, or to particular implementations. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0175] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and / or to “about”another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes-1from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

[0176] “Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

[0177] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intended to exclude, for example, other components, integers or steps. “Exemplary” means “an example of’ and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal embodiment. “Such as” is not used in a restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

[0178] Components are described that may be used to perform the described methods and systems. When combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc., of these components are described, it is understood that while specific references to each of the various individual and collective combinations and permutations of these may not be explicitly described, each is specifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods and systems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, but not limited to, operations in described methods. Thus, if there are a variety of additional operations that may be performed it is understood that each of these additional operations may be performed with any specific embodiment or combination of embodiments of the described methods.

[0179] As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the methods and systems may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, the methods and systems may take the form of a computer program product on a computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program instructions (e.g., computer software) embodied in the storage medium. More particularly, the present methods and systems may take the form of web-implemented computer software. Any suitable computer-readable storage medium may be utilized including hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, or magnetic storage devices.

[0180] Embodiments of the methods and systems are described below with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods, systems, apparatuses and computer program products. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, may be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded on a general-purpose computer, specialpurpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create a means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.

[0181] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer- readable memory that may direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including computer-readable instructions for implementing the function specified in the flowchart block or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.

[0182] The various features and processes described herein may be used independently of one another, or may be combined in various ways. All possible combinations and sub-combinations are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure. In addition, certain methods or process blocks may be omitted in some implementations. The methods and processes described herein are also not limited to any particular sequence, and the blocks or states relating thereto may be performed in other sequences that are appropriate. For example, described blocks or states may be performed in an order other than that specifically described, or multiple blocks or states may be combined in a single block or state. The example blocks or states may be performed in serial, in parallel, or in some other manner. Blocks or states may be added to or removed from the described example embodiments. The example systems and components described herein may be configured differently than described. For example, elements may be added to, removed from, or rearranged compared to the described example embodiments.

[0183] It will also be appreciated that various items are illustrated as being stored in memory or on storage while being used, and that these items or portions thereof may be transferred between memory and other storage devices for purposes of memory management and data integrity. Alternatively, in other embodiments, some or all of the software modules and / or systems may execute in memory on another device and communicate with the illustrated computing systems via inter-computer communication. Furthermore, in some embodiments, some or all of the systems and / or modules may be implemented or provided in other ways, such as at least partially in firmware and / or hardware, including, but not limited to, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (“ASICs”), standard integrated circuits, controllers (e.g., by executing appropriate instructions, and including microcontrollers and / or embedded controllers), field-programmable gate arrays (“FPGAs”), complex programmable logic devices (“CPLDs”), etc. Some or all of the modules, systems, and data structures may also be stored (e.g., as software instructions or structured data) on a computer-readable medium, such as a hard disk, a memory, a network, or a portable media article to be read by an appropriate device or via an appropriate connection. The systems, modules, and data structures may also be transmitted as generated data signals (e.g., as part of a carrier wave or other analog or digital propagated signal) on a variety of computer- readable transmission media, including wireless-based and wired / cable-based media, and may take a variety of forms (e.g., as part of a single or multiplexed analog signal, or as multiple discrete digital packets or frames). Such computer program products may also take other forms in other embodiments. Accordingly, the present invention may be practiced with other computer system configurations.

[0184] While the methods and systems have been described in connection with preferred embodiments and specific examples, it is not intended that the scope be limited to the particular embodiments set forth, as the embodiments herein are intended in all respects to be illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0185] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its operations be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its operations or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the operations are to be limited to a specific order, it is no way intended that an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including: matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or operationalflow; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of embodiments described in the specification.

[0186] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practices described herein. It is intended that the specification and example figures be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

What is Claimed:

1. A method for wirelessly transferring power comprising: charging an inductor by connecting the inductor to an electrical supply; shorting the charged inductor with first plasma, wherein a first magnetic field is generated as the charged inductor is shorted; recharging the inductor by connecting the inductor to the capacitor; and shorting the recharged inductor with second plasma, wherein a second magnetic field is generated as the recharged inductor is shorted.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein shorting the charged inductor comprises compressing a current flowing through the charged inductor into a subset of coils of the inductor.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the inductor is shorted by a switch comprising a plurality of metal-oxide-semi conductor field-effect transistors.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein a pulsatory magnetic field is generated, the pulsatory magnetic field comprising the first magnetic field and the second magnetic field.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein a current is induced in a receiving device.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the first magnetic field expands as the charged inductor is shorted with the plasma.

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising charging a capacitor with a voltage source, wherein the electrical supply comprises the charged capacitor.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the electrical supply comprises a distribution or transmission line.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the first plasma and the second plasma aregenerated by an electric power source.

10. A wireless power transfer system comprising: a voltage source; a capacitor configured to receive an electrical current from the voltage source; and a switch configured to generate a pulsatory magnetic field by repeatedly charging an inductor and shorting the charged inductor, wherein the inductor is charged by connecting the inductor to the capacitor and the charged inductor is shorted with plasma.

11. The wireless power transfer system of claim 10, wherein shorting the charged inductor with the plasma comprises compressing a current flowing through the charged inductor into a subset of coils of the inductor.

12. The wireless power transfer system of claim 10, wherein the switch comprises a plurality of metal-oxide-semi conductor field-effect transistors.

13. The wireless power transfer system of claim 10, wherein the pulsatory magnetic field induces a current in a receiving device.

14. The wireless power transfer system of claim 10, wherein the pulsatory magnetic field expands as the charged inductor is shorted with the plasma.

15. A wireless power transmitter comprising: a voltage source; a capacitor configured to receive an electrical current from the voltage source; and a switch configured to generate a pulsatory magnetic field by repeatedly charging an inductor and shorting the charged inductor, wherein the inductor is charged by connecting the inductor to the capacitor and the charged inductor is shorted with plasma.

16. The wireless power transmitter of claim 15, wherein shorting the charged inductor with the plasma comprises compressing a current flowing through the charged inductor into a subset of coils of the inductor.

17. The wireless power transmitter of claim 15, wherein the switch comprises a plurality of metal -oxi de-semi conductor field-effect transistors.

18. The wireless power transmitter of claim 15, wherein the pulsatory magnetic field induces a current in a receiving device.

19. The wireless power transmitter of claim 15, wherein the pulsatory magnetic field expands as the charged inductor is shorted with the plasma.

20. A method comprising: receiving a power signal from a power source; activating, by a series of transformers, a semiconductor array in electrical communication with the power source, wherein each transformer of the series of transformers corresponds to a respective semiconductor of the semiconductor array, and wherein the activating comprises simultaneously activating the semiconductor array; receiving, based on the activating and by an inductor-capacitor (LC) circuit, pulsed power signals from the semiconductor array; and generating, based on the pulsed power signals and by the LC circuit, an electromagnetic (EM) field.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the power signal comprises a distributed power of high voltage and low frequency, wherein the power signal is converted to direct current, analyzed by microprocessor, and presented to an input stage of the semiconductor array.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the semiconductor array further comprises a controller a microprocessor, wherein the microprocessor generates high voltage pulses that are passed to the semiconductor array via the transformers, wherein an input voltage to the semiconductor array is converted to high frequency pulses having an amplitude of the power signal.

23. The method of claim 20, wherein a modulated high frequency output of the semiconductor array is fed into individual winding cores of a matrix transformer to create a high current, low frequency output.

24. The method of claim 20, wherein a low pass circuit removes a high frequency component of an output of matrix transformers, wherein an original power value and frequency at a lower voltage.

25. The method of claim 20, wherein a microcontroller controlled conversion compensates for a power factor correction and voltage variations due to load conditions.

26. The method of claim 20, wherein the series of transformers comprise a series of toroidal transformers.

27. The method of claim 20, wherein the power signal comprises a high voltage power signal.

28. The method of claim 20, wherein the semiconductor array comprises a plurality of thyristors.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the plurality of thyristors are electrically coupled to each other in parallel.

30. The method of claim 20, wherein the activating is of a plurality of activations of the semiconductor array, and wherein the activation occurs according to an activation frequency.

31. The method of claim 20, further comprising: transmitting the EM field to a receiving circuit.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the transmitting comprises a wireless transmitting.

33. The method of claim 20, wherein the semiconductor array comprises between 3 and 15 semiconductors.

34. The method of claim 20, further comprising: deactivating the semiconductor array, wherein the generating the pulsed power signals is further based on the deactivating.

35. The method of claim 34, further comprising: storing charge from the pulsed power signals via one or more capacitors of the LC circuit and based on the deactivating; and passing the stored charge through one or more inductors of the LC circuit based on the activating, thereby generating the EM field.

36. Th method of claim 20, wherein the power source comprises a utility power source.

37. A wireless power transmitter, comprising: a power source; a transistor array configured to: receive current from the power source; and transition between an activated state and a deactivated state; a controller in communication with the transistor array, the controller configured to cause, via one or more signals, the transition of the transistor array between the activated state and the deactivated state; and an inductor-capacitor (LC) circuit in electronic communication with the transistor array, the LC circuit configured to: receive pulsed current signals from the transistor array based on the transitioning between the activated state and the deactivated state; and generate an electromagnetic (EM) field based on the pulsed current signals.

38. The wireless power transmitter of claim 37, wherein the transistor array comprises a plurality of thyristors.

39. The wireless power transmitter of claim 38, wherein the plurality of thyristors are electrically coupled to each other in parallel.

40. The wireless power transmitter of claim 37, wherein the activating comprises simultaneously activating each transistor of the transistor array.

41. The wireless power transmitter of claim 37, wherein the LC circuit is further configured to transmit the EM field to a receiving circuit.

42. The wireless power transmitter of claim 37, wherein the transistor array comprises between 3 and 15 transistors.

43. A wireless transmission system comprising: a transistor array configured to: receive current from the power source; and transition between an activated state and a deactivated state; a controller in optical communication with the transistor array, the controller configured to cause, via one or more signals, the transition of the transistor array between the activated state and the deactivated state; an inductor-capacitor (LC) circuit in electronic communication with the transistor array, the LC circuit configured to: receive pulsed current signals from the transistor array based on the transitioning between the activated state and the deactivated state; and generate an electromagnetic (EM) field based on the pulsed current signals; and a receiving circuit configured to receive the EM field.

44. The wireless transmission system of claim 43, wherein the transistor array comprises a plurality of thyristors.

45. The wireless transmission system of claim 44, wherein the plurality of thyristors are electrically coupled to each other in parallel.

46. A method comprising: receiving, by an inductor, one or more power signals, thereby generating a magnetic potential; causing an electrical compression along a direction associated with the inductor; and generating an electromagnetic (EM) field based on the electrical compression.

47. The method of claim 46, wherein the inductor comprises a coil having a number of windings.

48. The method of claim 47, wherein causing the electrical compression of the magnetic potential comprises short circuiting a first winding of the number of windings to a second winding of the number of windings.

49. The method of claim 47, wherein causing the electrical compression of the magnetic potential comprises causing an electrical arc between a first winding of the number of windings to a second winding of the number of windings.

50. The method of claim 47, wherein the direction associated with the inductor comprises a length of the inductor.

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