Multipath Wireless Power Distance Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for calculating the distance between wireless power transmitter and receiver antennas in multipath environments are inaccurate due to interference from reflective objects, which affects the direct line of sight and signal strength.
Innovation Solution
A modified Friis transmission equation that accounts for multipath effects by incorporating a function F(Environment, R) to quantify environmental impacts, allowing for precise distance determination between antennas in complex environments using calibration techniques and signal strength measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the Friis transmission equation is used to calculate distance in wireless power delivery, then the calculation is simple and fast, but the accuracy deteriorates in multipath environments due to reflective objects affecting direct line of sight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a multipath compensation function F(Environment, R) as an intermediary element that mediates between the simple Friis transmission equation and the complex multipath environment. This function quantifies the environmental impact and allows the system to maintain calculation speed while improving accuracy by accounting for reflective objects and obstructions without requiring complex signal processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the traditional Friis transmission equation by adding a multipath compensation parameter F(Environment, R). This parameter change allows the system to adapt to different environmental conditions (multipath scenarios) while maintaining the original equation's simplicity and computational efficiency. The function F can be pre-calibrated or dynamically adjusted based on environment type
2Measurement precision
If calibration techniques are implemented to quantify multipath environmental effects, then distance measurement precision improves, but device complexity and calibration time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs multipath calibration in advance to pre-determine the function F(Environment, R) for different environment types. By conducting calibration beforehand, the system establishes lookup tables or pre-computed models that can be quickly referenced during operation, avoiding real-time complex calculations and reducing operational complexity while maintaining high measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs temporary calibration objects (such as calibration antennas or test devices) that are used only during the calibration phase and then removed or discarded. These disposable calibration elements enable accurate environment characterization without requiring permanent additional hardware, thus reducing long-term device complexity
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 accurate one-way distance calculation between antennas in multipath environments, reducing errors and ensuring safe and efficient wireless power delivery by adjusting power levels based on calculated distances.
Implementation Method 1
Multipath is the propagation phenomenon that results in radio signals reaching the receiving antenna by two or more paths. The effects of multipath include constructive and destructive interference, and phase shifting of the signal.
Implementation Method 2
The Friis transmission equation provides for the determination of power received by a receive antenna under idealized conditions given a transmit antenna some distance away transmitting at known amount of power.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are described herein for determining the distance from, to or between radiating objects in a multipath environment. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure describe techniques for determining the distance between an antenna array system (or wireless charger) and a wireless power receiver in a multipath wireless power delivery environment. Calibration techniques are disclosed that account for and/or otherwise quantify the multipath effects of the wireless power delivery environment. In some embodiment, the quantified multipath effects modify the Friis transmission equation, thereby facilitating the distance determination in multipath environments.