Dual Loop Wireless Power Transmitter Current Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Wireless power systems face challenges in maintaining a constant transmitter coil current due to varying load conditions, temperature drift, and dynamic changes in the charging environment, which can lead to inefficiencies and safety issues when using single feedback control loops.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a dual feedback loop architecture within the wireless power transmitter, where an outer loop adjusts the transmitter coil current based on feedback from the receiver and an inner loop continuously monitors and adjusts the coil current to maintain a quasi-constant value, using a current sensor and comparison elements to rapidly update control parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single feedback control loop is used to control transmitter coil current, then the system structure is simple, but the current control precision deteriorates under varying load conditions and temperature drift

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol loop structureVSAvoidcoil current control precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into two independent feedback loops: an outer loop that controls power delivery based on receiver feedback, and an inner loop that controls transmitter coil current based on current sensor feedback. Each loop operates independently to address different control objectives, resolving the contradiction between system simplicity and current control precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dual feedback mechanisms: the outer loop uses feedback from the receiver about power delivery conditions, while the inner loop uses feedback from a current sensor about the actual coil current. This layered feedback approach enables precise current control while maintaining overall system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Ease of operation

If a single feedback control loop is used, then the system is easy to operate, but the response speed to temperature variations and load changes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem operation simplicityVSAvoidresponse speed to temperature and load changes
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The control response is segmented into two stages: the outer loop handles slow-varying power delivery requirements, while the inner loop rapidly responds to fast-varying current deviations caused by temperature drift and load changes. This segmentation enables fast response without complicating overall system operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The inner current control loop operates continuously at a high update rate, providing continuous correction of coil current deviations. This continuous action ensures rapid response to temperature and load variations while the outer loop continuously adjusts power delivery, maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the transmitter coil current is allowed to vary freely, then the system is more adaptable to different loading conditions, but the system efficiency and safety deteriorate due to current exceeding specified limits

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different loading conditionsVSAvoidsystem efficiency and safety
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The inner current control loop continuously monitors the actual coil current via a current sensor and compares it to the target current value. When deviations occur due to varying load conditions or temperature drift, the loop immediately adjusts the inverter output to maintain current within specified limits, ensuring both adaptability and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The control system dynamically adjusts the transmitter coil current based on real-time feedback from the inner loop. The system adapts to different loading conditions by allowing current variations within safe limits while the inner loop ensures current never exceeds specified thresholds, maintaining both versatility and safety.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 dual loop control architecture provides more precise and stable control over the transmitter coil current, ensuring efficient and safe power transfer by separating voltage and current errors, allowing for faster response to temperature variations and maintaining coil current within specified limits, thus enhancing system efficiency and compliance with wireless charging specifications.

Implementation Method 1

A wireless power system employs a pair of inductive coils forming a loosely-coupled transformer to transfer power wirelessly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The AC current in the transmit coil generates an oscillating magnetic field. The oscillating magnetic field induces an AC voltage into the tuned receiver coil

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10193375B2Closed loop current control in a wireless power system
Publication Date: 2019.01.29 MEDIATEK INC
  • US10193375B2 patent drawing
  • US10193375B2 patent drawing
  • US10193375B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and apparatus for providing closed loop current control in a wireless power transmitter. The method comprises adjusting a transmitter coil current generated by the wireless power transmitter based, at least in part, on first feedback reported by at least one wireless power receiver and second feedback based on a measurement of the transmitter coil current.