Nonplanar Coils for Flexible In-Vehicle Wireless Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current in-vehicle wireless charging systems require strict alignment and contact with flat charging pads, limiting positional flexibility and optimized charging for mobile devices, and lack variation in charging protocols for different devices.
Innovation Solution
An in-vehicle wireless charging system utilizing nonplanar coils embedded in a housing, such as a cup holder, to create a 3D magnetic field for flexible device placement and positioning, with a control unit regulating current to ensure efficient charging, and a control method for optimizing charging protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If flat charging pads with strict alignment requirements are used, then charging reliability is improved, but positional flexibility and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a 2D flat charging pad to a 3D volumetric magnetic field created by nonplanar coils arranged in multiple planes. This dimensional change allows the mobile device to be charged at various positions and orientations within the cavity space, eliminating the need for strict alignment on a flat surface while maintaining reliable wireless charging.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the current distribution among multiple nonplanar coils based on the detected position and orientation of the mobile device. The control unit modifies operating parameters in real-time to optimize charging efficiency regardless of device placement, providing both reliability and positional flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single charging protocol is used for all devices, then device compatibility is improved, but charging optimization and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different current levels and charging parameters to different coils based on the specific requirements of the detected mobile device. Each coil can operate with customized current distribution to optimize charging performance for devices in different positions with different protocol requirements, achieving both compatibility and optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit dynamically changes operating parameters including current amplitude, frequency, and distribution among coils based on device detection and identification. This allows the system to adapt to different device types and optimize charging protocols for each specific device while maintaining broad compatibility.
3Ease of operation
If multiple nonplanar coils with independent control are used, then positional flexibility and charging optimization are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless charging system is divided into multiple independent nonplanar coil segments arranged in different planes around the cavity. Each coil can be independently controlled and optimized, allowing modular design and assembly while achieving complex 3D magnetic field patterns that provide positional flexibility and charging optimization.
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 wireless charging with increased positional flexibility and optimized power delivery to mobile devices, eliminating the need for strict alignment and providing zone charging capabilities, thus enhancing the user experience and charging efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The at least two coils and the control unit cooperate to form a transmitter... The at least two coils may be nonplanar and create a static magnetic field within the cavity
Implementation Method 2
The control unit regulates the current supplied to the at least two coils
Implementation Method 3
The at least two coils may be nonplanar and create a static magnetic field within the cavity... A 3D magnetic field may be created for providing wireless charging in a vehicle environment
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure refers to a wireless charging system for a vehicle, in particular in form of an in-vehicle wireless charging system, comprising: a body (102) or housing (200) defining a cavity (110, 202); at least two coils (100) arranged around the cavity (110, 202) and adapted to create a magnetic field (106) within the cavity (110, 202); and a control unit (16) connected to the at least two coils (100) and adapted to connect to a power supply. It also relates to a control method (700) providing a charging protocol for such a wireless charging system.