Multi-Mode Antenna Inductance Tuning for Wireless Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing near-field communication antennas are inefficient due to low quality factors and large sizes, leading to unreliable and inefficient wireless power and data transfer, especially when multiple operating frequencies are required, as they demand precise alignment and proximity between transmitting and receiving antennas.
Innovation Solution
A multi-mode antenna with a single structure comprising electrically connected inductor coils that can operate across various frequency bands, including Qi, Rezence, and PMA standards, allowing for dynamic adjustment of operating frequency and inductance, enabling efficient wireless transfer of power and data with reduced size and increased flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If prior art near-field communication antennas are used, then wireless power and data transfer can be achieved, but the transfer efficiency is low and the antenna size is large
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is divided into multiple independently adjustable inductor coils (first inductor coil, second inductor coil, third inductor coil) that can be selectively connected to form different operating modes. This segmentation allows each coil to be optimized for specific frequency ranges and transfer distances, improving overall efficiency without requiring a large fixed-size antenna structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna incorporates dynamic switching capability through control circuitry that can adjust the inductance values and operating frequencies in real-time based on the communication requirements. This dynamic adjustment allows the antenna to adapt to different transfer distances and efficiency requirements, preventing energy loss without needing a physically large antenna.
2Adaptability or versatility
If prior art antennas operate at multiple frequency bands, then versatility is improved, but the antenna structure becomes complex and alignment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is designed as a universal multi-mode structure where the same physical antenna can operate across multiple frequency bands (e.g., 13.56 MHz for NFC, higher frequencies for resonant inductive coupling) by dynamically adjusting the inductance of its coils. This eliminates the need for separate antennas for different standards while maintaining a relatively simple single-structure design.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna achieves multi-frequency operation by changing the electrical parameters (inductance values) of its coils rather than changing its physical structure. The control system adjusts the number of active turns and connection points of each inductor coil to match the resonant frequency requirements of different communication standards, simplifying the overall device architecture.
3Loss of energy
If inductive charging systems use close proximity positioning, then power transfer efficiency is improved, but the requirement for precise alignment becomes a limitation
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system dynamically adjusts its operating parameters including frequency and inductance based on the detected distance and alignment status between transmitting and receiving antennas. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain efficient power transfer over a wider range of positions and orientations, reducing the stringency of alignment requirements while preserving energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes resonant oscillation at carefully selected frequencies to enhance the magnetic field coupling between transmitting and receiving antennas. By operating at resonant frequencies that match the natural oscillation modes of the antenna system, the patent achieves strong coupling and efficient energy transfer even when perfect alignment is not achieved, effectively compensating for misalignment through resonant enhancement.
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 solution enhances wireless transfer efficiency and range while reducing the need for precise alignment, enabling efficient operation across multiple standards and frequencies, thus improving user experience and device compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
Near-field communication enables the transfer of electrical energy and/or data wirelessly through magnetic field induction between a transmitting antenna and a corresponding receiving antenna
Implementation Method 2
Resonant inductive coupling is defined herein as the near field wireless transmission of electrical energy between two magnetically coupled coils that are part of two spaced apart resonant circuits that are tuned to resonate at the same frequency
Implementation Method 3
Resonant inductive coupling is defined herein as the near field wireless transmission of electrical energy between two magnetically coupled coils
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a single structure multiple mode antenna is described. The antenna is preferably constructed having a first inductor coil that is electrically connected in series with a second inductor coil. The antenna is constructed having a plurality of electrical connections positioned along the first and second inductor coils. A plurality of terminals is connected to the electrical connections that facilitate numerous electrical connections and enables the antenna to be selectively tuned to various frequencies and frequency bands.