Auto-Tuning Wireless Power Transfer System for Varying Receiver Positions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional coupled resonator systems for wireless power transfer are limited to operation at a fixed distance and orientation, with efficiency dropping rapidly as the receiver moves away from the optimal position, and use bulky, non-flat resonator structures.
Innovation Solution
An auto-tuning wireless power transfer system that adjusts transmission frequency to maintain efficient power transfer by measuring signal reflections and determining receiver coupling, allowing operation over a range of distances and orientations using a multiplicity of frequencies and power levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional coupled resonator systems operate at a fixed distance and orientation, then power transfer efficiency is maintained at optimal levels, but the system cannot adapt when the receiver moves away from the optimal position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic frequency tuning by adjusting the transmission frequency based on measured signal reflections. The system transitions from a fixed-frequency operation to a dynamic system that continuously adapts the frequency to maintain optimal coupling conditions as the receiver moves, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining efficiency and adapting to position changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating frequency parameter in response to varying receiver positions and orientations. By measuring signal reflections and determining receiver coupling, the system adjusts the transmission frequency to compensate for changes in coupling coefficients, maintaining high power transfer efficiency across varying ranges and orientations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the transmission frequency is dynamically adjusted to maintain efficient power transfer, then the effective working range is extended, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms by measuring signal reflections at the transmitter and using this information to determine receiver coupling. This feedback loop enables the system to automatically adjust the transmission frequency to maintain optimal conditions, extending the effective working range while managing complexity through automated control rather than manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically measuring signal reflections, determining receiver coupling, and tuning the transmission frequency without external intervention. This self-service capability extends the working range while minimizing the need for complex external control systems.
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
The system achieves nearly constant power transfer efficiency across varying ranges and orientations, extending the effective working range and maintaining high efficiency by dynamically adjusting the transmission frequency to compensate for changes in coupling coefficients.
Implementation Method 1
Coupled resonator wireless power transfer is capable of delivering power with more efficiency than far field approaches and at longer range than traditional inductive schemes
Implementation Method 2
measuring signal reflections and determining receiver coupling
Implementation Method 3
Coupled resonator wireless power transfer
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with various aspects of the disclosure, a method and apparatus is disclosed that includes features of transmitting power from a transmitter of a wireless power system at a multiplicity of frequencies between a first transmission frequency and a second transmission frequency at a first power level and transmitting power from the transmitter at a second power level and at one or more frequencies between the first transmission frequency and the second transmission frequency if the one or more receiving devices are determined to be coupled to the transmitter.