Actuated Vehicle Charging Coil Alignment for Wireless Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems lack efficient mechanisms for dynamically adjusting the position of charging coils relative to the chassis for optimal wireless energy transfer, leading to suboptimal charging efficiency and alignment with external charging coils.
Innovation Solution
A positioning mechanism incorporating an actuator, charging coil, positioning accessory, and mount, which adjusts the charging coil's position vertically, laterally, or longitudinally using a winch system, foldable support members, pulley system, or self-leveling actuation to align with external charging coils for improved energy transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the charging coil position is fixed relative to the chassis, then the device complexity is reduced, but the charging efficiency and alignment with external charging coils deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The charging coil is made dynamically adjustable relative to the chassis through actuation mechanisms. The coil can move in vertical, lateral, and longitudinal directions to dynamically adapt its position for optimal alignment with external charging coils, transforming a static fixed-position system into a dynamic adjustable one.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning mechanism includes sensors and control systems that automatically detect misalignment and actuate the charging coil into the correct position without manual intervention. The system self-corrects its positioning to maintain optimal charging alignment, eliminating the need for external assistance.
2Productivity
If the charging coil position is adjusted dynamically, then the charging efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning mechanism is divided into independent adjustment components for vertical, lateral, and longitudinal movements. Each degree of freedom is controlled by separate actuators, allowing granular adjustment of the charging coil position to optimize charging rate while managing overall system complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning mechanism serves multiple functions: it adjusts the charging coil position in three dimensions, provides alignment with external charging coils, and maintains optimal charging alignment during vehicle operation. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering superior charging performance.
3Measurement precision
If multiple actuators are used for precise positioning, then the alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor the charging coil's position and alignment with external charging coils. This feedback is fed to a control system that adjusts the actuators in real-time to maintain precise alignment, ensuring high measurement precision through closed-loop control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical positioning with automated actuation mechanisms controlled by electronic systems. Sensors and control algorithms substitute for complex mechanical linkages, achieving precise alignment through electronic control rather than purely mechanical means.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances charging efficiency by ensuring precise alignment and optimal distance between the charging coils, thereby improving the rate and effectiveness of wireless energy transfer.
Implementation Method 1
The charging coil is configured to receive electrical energy from an external charging coil and transfer the electrical energy to the energy storage device
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a chassis, an energy storage device, and a positioning mechanism coupled to the chassis. The positioning mechanism includes an actuator and a charging coil configured to receive electrical energy from an external charging coil and transfer the electrical energy to the energy storage device. The positioning mechanism is configured to adjust the positioning of the charging coil relative to the chassis by actuating the charging coil in a first direction.