Inductive Charging Thermal Regulation via HVAC Conduits

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Solution Overview

Problem

In vehicle environments, the temperature fluctuations cause portable devices to enter safe charging mode, reducing charging efficiency due to inadequate thermal regulation in partially enclosed spaces during inductive charging.

Innovation Solution

A thermal conditioning system utilizing air flow from existing heating and ventilation sources to regulate the temperature of portable devices through dedicated conduits, optimizing pressure, air flow, and temperature blending to maintain a predetermined temperature range for efficient inductive charging.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If inductive charging is performed in vehicle environments with extreme temperatures, then charging capability is maintained, but battery temperature exceeds safe operating limits causing safe charging mode activation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging rateVSAvoidbattery temperature
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

A thermal management system acts as an intermediary between the inductive charging system and the battery. The system includes a cooling fan, heat dissipation fins, and temperature sensors that actively regulate battery temperature during charging, preventing overheating while maintaining charging capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts charging parameters based on temperature conditions. When temperature exceeds thresholds, the charging rate is reduced or paused. The thermal management system adjusts fan speed, airflow direction, and cooling intensity based on real-time temperature readings to maintain optimal charging conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If ambient temperature is regulated in partially enclosed spaces, then charging efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases due to dedicated thermal conditioning infrastructure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging efficiencyVSAvoidthermal conditioning system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The thermal management system serves multiple functions: it cools the battery during charging, regulates ambient temperature in the charging compartment, and prevents condensation formation. The same airflow system and heating/cooling elements are used for both battery thermal management and environmental control, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the thermal management system with the vehicle's existing HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system where possible. The thermal management components are integrated into the charging compartment structure, sharing space and control systems with the vehicle's climate control system to minimize additional complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 ensures optimal temperature conditions for inductive charging, preventing battery damage and maintaining charging efficiency even in extreme temperature environments, thus improving user experience and battery life.

Implementation Method 1

An open enclosure charging unit includes at least one surface generating an electromagnetic field for inductively charging a portable device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field generation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

A primary conduit coupled to the open enclosure charging unit. The primary conduit outputs conditioned air to the open enclosure charging unit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAir flow: Convection

Data Source

PatentUS9356466B2Temperature regulation of inductive charging devices in extreme vehicle environments
Publication Date: 2016.05.31 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • US9356466B2 patent drawing
  • US9356466B2 patent drawing
  • US9356466B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A thermal conditioning system for an inductive charging system. An open enclosure charging unit includes at least one surface generating an electromagnetic field for inductively charging a portable device. A primary conduit coupled to the open enclosure charging unit. The primary conduit outputs conditioned air to the open enclosure charging unit. The conditioned air output by the primary conduit maintains a temperature of the portable device at a predetermined temperature range within the open enclosure charging unit.