Inductive Power Transfer Pad Foreign Object Detection and Fire Mitigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inductive Power Transfer (IPT) systems face challenges in detecting foreign objects on charging pads, which can lead to inefficiencies, safety hazards, and fire risks due to heating of objects like metallic items or combustible materials.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for detecting foreign objects using IPT primary and secondary pads by measuring power transfer rates and relative alignment, and employing an air flow mechanism to mitigate fire risks by sweeping away or cooling objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sophisticated electronic Foreign Object Detection (FOD) system is provided, then foreign object detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The IPT system's primary power transfer function is extended to perform dual purposes: charging vehicles and detecting foreign objects. By monitoring power transfer rates during normal operation, the system simultaneously achieves both charging and FOD detection without adding dedicated detection hardware, thereby improving detection capability while avoiding increased system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own operational parameters (power transfer rate measurements) to detect foreign objects rather than relying on separate detection systems. The IPT system monitors its own performance metrics to identify anomalies caused by foreign objects, enabling self-diagnosis and eliminating the need for additional complex detection infrastructure
2Productivity
If high power is used for fast charging, then charging speed is improved, but fire risk from heating of foreign objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors power transfer rates and uses this feedback to detect foreign objects in real-time. When a foreign object is detected through abnormal power transfer patterns, the system can immediately reduce or terminate power delivery, preventing heating and fire hazards while maintaining high-power charging capability under normal conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of foreign objects before high-power charging begins by measuring power transfer rates during initial connection and low-power phases. This preliminary anti-action prevents foreign objects from being exposed to high power that could cause heating, thereby eliminating fire risk before it can materialize
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the user manually checks the IPT pad for foreign objects, then safety is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The IPT system automatically performs foreign object detection through its own operational measurements without requiring user intervention. The system monitors power transfer rates and autonomously identifies foreign objects, eliminating the need for users to manually inspect the charging pad while maintaining high safety standards
Solution Approach 2:
The manual visual inspection process is replaced with electronic monitoring of power transfer rates. Instead of requiring users to physically examine the pad surface, the system uses electrical measurements to detect the presence of foreign objects, thereby improving safety while maintaining ease of operation
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
Effectively detects foreign objects and maintains system safety by adjusting power transfer and using air flow to prevent fires, ensuring efficient and safe charging operations.
Implementation Method 1
an first pad (P1) configured to generate a magnetic field and an second pad (P2) configured to receive the magnetic field generated by the first pad
Implementation Method 2
The controller (10) operates the impeller (1) to clear the upper face (6) of the charging pad (7) of foreign objects
Data Source
AI summary
Foreign object detection apparatus for an IPT system, includes a control means adapted to detect the presence of a foreign object on or adjacent to an IPT primary pad of the system.