Multi-coil Wireless Power Transmitter with Ferrite Shielding and Airflow Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless power transfer systems are limited to small separation gaps (3-5 mm) due to near-field operation, restricting their use in applications with thicker materials or devices with obstructions, and face heating issues with increased power transmission.
Innovation Solution
A wireless power transmitter design with a ferrite core surrounding three sides of the antenna, operating at 87 kHz to 205 kHz, and incorporating airflow channels in the housing to mitigate heating, along with a vehicular power input regulator to protect against power surges and electrostatic discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the separation gap between transmitter and receiver coils is increased beyond 3-5 mm, then the transmitter can be used with thicker materials and obstructions, but the power transfer efficiency and thermal management deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the wireless power transmission system into multiple independent coils arranged in a grid pattern, with each coil capable of operating independently. This segmentation allows the system to maintain efficient power transfer at larger separation gaps by activating only the necessary coils, thereby preserving power transfer efficiency while adapting to thicker materials and obstructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-coil near-field design to a multi-coil array that operates in both near-field and far-field regions. By utilizing multiple dimensions of coil arrangement and operating regions, the system achieves extended separation gap capability while maintaining power transfer efficiency through coordinated operation of coils at different positions and frequencies.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the separation gap is increased to enable commercial applications, then adaptability improves, but heating issues worsen due to increased power requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power transmission load across multiple coils rather than concentrating it in a single coil. Each coil operates at reduced power levels, which minimizes heating in individual components while collectively delivering the required total power for commercial applications at extended separation gaps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic switching and control of multiple coils in the array, activating coils in sequences and cycles. This periodic operation allows thermal management by distributing heat generation over time and space, preventing localized overheating while maintaining continuous power transfer capability for commercial applications.
3Productivity
If multiple coils are used to extend separation gap, then power transfer capability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple coils into a unified grid array structure with shared control electronics and common housing. By combining the coils into an integrated assembly rather than separate units, the system achieves extended power transfer capability while minimizing the increase in device complexity through shared components and coordinated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the multi-coil array with universal control mechanisms that can activate and coordinate all coils through a single control system. The housing and mounting structure serve multiple functions including mechanical support, thermal management, and electromagnetic shielding, thereby reducing overall device complexity despite the increased number of coils for enhanced power transfer.
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 power transfer over larger separation gaps (up to 15 mm) while maintaining efficiency and thermal management, allowing for broader commercial applications and improved charging speed.
Implementation Method 1
inductive wireless power transfer, which occurs when magnetic fields created by a transmitting element induce an electric field, and hence, an electric current, in a receiving element
Implementation Method 2
a ferrite core that substantially surrounds the transmitter antenna on three sides
Implementation Method 3
incorporating airflow channels in the housing to mitigate heating
Data Source
AI summary
A power transmitter includes a transmitter antenna includes at least one coil configured to transmit the power signal to the power receiver, the at least one coil and a shielding comprising a ferrite core and defining a cavity, the cavity configured such that the ferrite core substantially surrounds all but the top face of the at least one coil. The power transmitter includes a housing configured for housing, at least, the transmitter antenna. The housing defines an airflow opening configured to provide an airflow to a first airflow channel and to a second airflow channel. The first and second airflow channels configured to provide the airflow to one or more of a top face of a mobile device thereon and a bottom face of the mobile device.