Capacitive Elevator Power Transfer Without Moving Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional elevator power systems require complex mechanical structures and cables for power transfer, leading to increased costs and reduced reliability, especially when the elevator is in motion, as inductive power transfer methods are inefficient for continuous power delivery.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic capacitive power transfer system using a conductive track and capacitive coupler with inductor compensation, allowing continuous power transfer to a moving elevator by maintaining contact through hoist cables and rolling wheels, eliminating the need for batteries and mechanical cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If inductive power transfer is used to charge the elevator car when it stops, then power can be transferred without mechanical cables, but the effective charging time is very short and the car needs to carry extra batteries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable system with a capacitive power transfer system that uses electric fields to transfer power wirelessly between the ground and the moving elevator car. The capacitive coupler consists of conductive plates that create an electric field through which power is transferred without physical contact, eliminating the need for mechanical cables and batteries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a capacitive coupler as an intermediary between the power source and the elevator car. This coupler uses conductive plates and electric fields to transfer power through the air gap, serving as a mediator that enables wireless power transfer without direct mechanical or electrical contact.
2Power
If mechanical cables and flexible cable carriers are used to provide power to the moving car, then sufficient power can be provided, but the system complexity increases and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable carrier system with a capacitive power transfer system that uses electric fields. The conductive plates on the ground and on the car create a capacitive coupling that transfers power wirelessly, eliminating the need for mechanical cables, pulleys, and cable carriers while maintaining full power delivery capability.
3Loss of energy
If inductive power transfer is used, then wireless power transfer is achieved, but eddy-current loss occurs in metal materials reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the power transfer mechanism from magnetic field induction to electric field capacitance. By using capacitive coupling instead of inductive coupling, the system avoids eddy-current losses in metal materials while maintaining wireless power transfer capability and achieving higher efficiency.
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
This system enhances reliability and reduces costs by providing continuous power to moving elevators without the need for batteries or complex mechanical structures, achieving high efficiency and power transfer over varying load conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The CPT system uses the high-frequency electric fields to transfer power
Implementation Method 2
The IPT system generates high-frequency magnetic fields to transfer power
Implementation Method 3
A dynamic capacitive power transfer system using a conductive track and capacitive coupler with inductor compensation
Data Source
AI summary
A dynamic capacitive power transfer system for an elevator that can realize the real-time powering of the elevator when it is in the moving status. It includes a metal track along the building side as the power transmitter and a piece of metal at the elevator side as the power receiver. There is a gap between the transmitter and receiver, and up to kW power can be transferred wirelessly and efficiently to serve the air conditioner, lightning, and other electronic devices in the moving car. The steel wheels and ropes may be used to connect the moving car to the earth ground, which contributes to form the current returning loop. It eliminates the electric cables and the corresponding flexible cable carrier system for the linear movement.