Inductive Power Transfer Frequency Modulation for Voltage Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Inductive power transfer systems face challenges in maintaining a stable operating voltage, requiring continuous regulation of output voltage across a wide range, especially due to sensitivity to environmental conditions and alignment variations.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of frequency modulation units and dimension modifiers within the inductive power transfer system, which adjust the natural frequency of the LC circuit to regulate power delivery by altering the magnetic permeability, inductance, or capacitance, and using feedback mechanisms to monitor and adjust the output voltage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If inductive power transmission is used to provide wireless power transfer, then convenience and ease of operation are improved, but stability of output voltage deteriorates due to sensitivity to environmental conditions and alignment variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewireless power transfer convenienceVSAvoidoutput voltage stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback control system where the output voltage is continuously monitored and compared to a reference value. The error signal generated from this comparison is used to adjust the driving voltage frequency, thereby maintaining stable output voltage despite variations in coupling conditions or environmental factors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes the operating parameter (driving voltage frequency) to maintain stable output. By adjusting the frequency based on feedback, the system compensates for changes in magnetic coupling, alignment, or environmental conditions, thus resolving the contradiction between wireless convenience and voltage stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Stability of the object's composition

If output voltage regulation is implemented through feedback control, then output voltage stability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional monitoring and control mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput voltage stabilityVSAvoidregulation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the primary inductor serve multiple functions: it acts as both the power transmission element and the frequency adjustment element. By changing the frequency of the driving voltage applied to the primary inductor, the system achieves voltage regulation without requiring separate control components, thus reducing overall device complexity while maintaining stability.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses its own primary inductor to perform the regulation function through frequency adjustment, rather than requiring external or separate regulation components. This self-service approach simplifies the device structure while achieving the desired output voltage stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If frequency modulation is used to regulate power delivery, then adaptability to different operating conditions is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower regulation adaptabilityVSAvoidfrequency monitoring complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical or electronic voltage regulation mechanisms with a simpler frequency modulation approach. By controlling the frequency of the driving voltage rather than directly regulating voltage amplitude, the system achieves better adaptability with simpler measurement requirements, as frequency can be more easily detected and controlled than voltage under varying load conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 approach ensures continuous and stable power regulation over a wide range, reducing sensitivity to environmental fluctuations and alignment issues, thereby maintaining consistent voltage for electrical devices.

Implementation Method 1

An oscillating electrical potential, or driving voltage, is applied across a primary inductor associated with the inductive power outlet. This produces a varying magnetic field in the vicinity of the primary inductor.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

When the inductive receiver is brought near to the inductive outlet, a secondary potential difference, or output voltage, is generated across a secondary inductor positioned within this varying magnetic field.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP2786464B2System and method for regulating inductive power transmission
Publication Date: 2023.03.29 POWERMAT TECHNOLOGIES
  • EP2786464B2 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP2786464B2 patent drawingFigure 1C~1E
  • EP2786464B2 patent drawingFigure 2A

AI summary

An inductive power transfer system is provided that comprises at least one inductive power receiver (301) comprising at least one secondary inductor (321) for forming an inductive couple with a primary inductor (221) and providing power to an electric load (341) and at least one inductive power outlet (301) comprising at least one primary inductor wired to a power supply (240) via a driver (231) configured to provide a driving voltage across the primary inductor. The driving voltage is oscillating at a transmission frequency significantly different from the natural frequency of the inductive couple. The system further comprises at least one power monitor (351) and at least one frequency modulator (401) operable to adjust the natural frequency of the inductive couple thereby regulating power provided to the electric load.