Mobile Wireless Power Unit for Obstruction-Aware Beam Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless power delivery systems face challenges in efficiently transferring power to target devices at different locations and orientations, with potential obstructions affecting the path of energy transfer.
Innovation Solution
A roaming and articulating wireless power transfer device equipped with a wireless power generation unit, energy storage, a controller, and an electrically driven moving platform, which includes sensors and motors to navigate and adjust its position and orientation for optimal power transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed wireless power generation unit is used, then the system structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to target devices at different locations and orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the wireless power generation unit mobile through an electrically driven moving platform, allowing it to change its position and orientation dynamically to track and power target devices at various locations. The unit can roam and articulate to maintain optimal power transfer alignment, transforming a static system into a dynamic adaptive system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the wireless power delivery system into a mobile power generation unit that can independently navigate and position itself, separating the power transmission function from fixed infrastructure. This segmentation enables the system to adapt to different target positions without requiring complex fixed antenna arrays or multiple stationary units.
2Loss of energy
If beam forming and focusing are used to enable wireless power transmission, then power transfer efficiency is improved, but obstructions in the path can block energy transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile wireless power generation unit can dynamically change its position and orientation to bypass obstructions that block the direct path to target devices. By roaming to alternative locations and articulating to different angles, the system maintains line-of-sight or alternative paths for energy transfer, ensuring reliable power delivery even when direct paths are obstructed.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile power generation unit acts as an intermediary that can physically relocate itself to overcome obstructions. Instead of relying on fixed infrastructure that cannot move around obstacles, the mobile unit serves as a flexible mediator that adapts its position to maintain effective power transfer paths.
3Power
If multiple RF sources and antennas are used in the wireless power generation unit, then power transfer capability is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile wireless power generation unit integrates multiple functions into a single platform: it contains RF power transmission capabilities, navigation systems, sensors for detecting target devices, and self-propulsion mechanisms. This multi-functionality allows the unit to perform power transfer while independently navigating and positioning itself, reducing the need for separate fixed infrastructure components.
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 effectively navigates to optimal locations and orientations to maximize power transfer efficiency, overcoming obstructions and adapting to various device positions, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of wireless power delivery.
Implementation Method 1
A wireless power generation unit may include multiple RF sources and antennas... An RF energy focal point can be formed at a desired location where a target device is located. The RF energy may be captured using an energy recovery unit disposed in the target device.
Implementation Method 2
The RF energy may be captured using an energy recovery unit disposed in the target device. The recovery unit (RU) may have, among other components, measurement circuitry, processing and communication circuitry, and the like. An RU may utilize various means of power recovery, such as rectennas to collect the RF energy and convert it to DC energy.
Data Source
AI summary
A roaming and articulating wireless power delivery device includes, in part, an optical assembly adapted to deliver an optical beam, an energy storage unit, a controller, and an electrically driven moving platform. The moving platform may include an inertia measurement, a GPS, bump sensors and proximity sensors. The device may further include a camera, a gradient filter, and a wireless communication link via which the device establishes a two-way communication with a recovery unit being wirelessly powered.