Lifted Inductive Charging Coils for EV Alignment and Fast Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional contactless-based charging systems for electric vehicles, such as inductive charging, often require complex alignment and additional components, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, particularly due to the need for precise alignment of charging coils on and under the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A charging system that utilizes a passive or active lift mechanism to raise charging coils into proximity with vehicle coils, aided by sensors to adjust position and orientation, allowing for efficient power transfer and alignment, and includes a mechanism to minimize the gap between coils for improved efficiency and high-speed charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If inductive charging coils are aligned within tight tolerances for efficient power transfer, then charging efficiency is improved, but device complexity and alignment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lift mechanism automatically adjusts the charging coil position based on vehicle detection, eliminating the need for manual alignment. The system self-regulates to maintain optimal spacing between coils through automated vertical movement of the charging platform
Solution Approach 2:
The charging system transitions from a static fixed-position coil design to a dynamic system where the charging coil can vertically move relative to the vehicle coil. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt to different vehicle types and maintain optimal charging efficiency
2Productivity
If charging coils are positioned close together for efficient power transfer, then charging speed is improved, but safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lift mechanism acts as an intermediary between the charging coil and vehicle coil, providing controlled vertical movement. This intermediary system enables precise spacing adjustment that optimizes power transfer while maintaining safety through automated position control
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect vehicle presence and position, providing feedback to the lift mechanism for automated adjustment of coil spacing. This feedback loop ensures optimal charging distance is maintained while preventing unsafe proximity
3Ease of operation
If a passive lift mechanism is used to raise charging coils, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The passive lift mechanism utilizes the vehicle's own weight and position as the actuating force, eliminating the need for external power sources or complex control systems. The mechanism automatically responds to vehicle presence through mechanical activation
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
Enables safe, efficient, and timely charging of vehicles by aligning charging coils with vehicle coils, reducing heat generation and allowing for a smaller form factor, while accommodating various vehicle types and sizes, and facilitating high-speed charging.
Implementation Method 1
contactless-based solutions (e.g., inductive charging)... a charging coil located offboard the vehicle may be aligned with a vehicle coil located onboard the vehicle... to efficiently transfer power
Data Source
AI summary
A charging system includes one or more inductive charging elements arranged in a charging space. A lift mechanism, such as a lever arm, is configured to lift the charging elements into position for transferring current to vehicle charging elements. Sensor(s) may detect a location of the charging element relative to the vehicle charging element, and adjustments may be made to align the charging element and the vehicle charging element (passively and/or actively). The sensor(s) may also determine characteristic(s) of the vehicle, such as ground clearance, make/model, etc. to align the charging element and the vehicle charging element and/or to control power transfer to the vehicle.