Overhead Inductive EV Charging With Optical Coil Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicle charging systems require ground-based installations, which are susceptible to interference, require user handling of cables, and are inefficient due to the need for precise vehicle placement over charging infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A wireless electromagnetic charging system mounted above the vehicle, using a robotic system to automatically engage and disengage with electromagnetic power receiving devices on the vehicle's surface, eliminating the need for ground-based installations and enabling efficient charging without cable handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If ground-based wireless charging devices are installed beneath electric vehicles, then wireless charging is enabled, but the system becomes susceptible to interference from water, debris, and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional ground-based charging architecture by placing the electromagnetic power transmitting device above the vehicle instead of below. The receptacle is mounted to a structure (ceiling, carport, bay) and the charging device extends downward to engage with the vehicle's receiving coil, reversing the spatial relationship and eliminating ground-based interference issues
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the charging system from the ground infrastructure and relocates it to an overhead mounting structure. This separation removes the charging components from direct contact with water, debris, and wear-prone ground surfaces, isolating them from environmental interference
2Adaptability or versatility
If ground-based charging assemblies are installed in parking spaces, then charging infrastructure is provided, but concrete or pavement modification is required
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of installing charging infrastructure in the ground (below), the system mounts the transmitting device overhead to a ceiling, carport, or bay structure. This inversion eliminates the need for concrete or pavement modification while providing charging infrastructure in existing parking spaces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions the charging infrastructure from a two-dimensional ground-based installation to a three-dimensional overhead mounting solution. By utilizing the vertical dimension and mounting to ceiling or overhead structures, the system avoids ground modification while maintaining charging capability
3Reliability
If electromagnetic power transmitting device is mounted above the vehicle, then interference from ground-based factors is eliminated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle serves multiple functions: it mounts the electromagnetic power transmitting device, provides structural support, enables extension and retraction mechanisms, and facilitates engagement with the vehicle. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise be separate components into a single integrated unit, managing system complexity
4Productivity
If precise vehicle placement over charging infrastructure is required, then charging efficiency is maintained, but user convenience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment capabilities through extension and retraction mechanisms that allow the charging device to move vertically. This dynamic positioning, potentially controlled by sensors and feedback systems, maintains optimal charging efficiency while accommodating variations in vehicle placement, eliminating the need for precise user positioning
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
Provides efficient and convenient charging without ground-based installations, reducing interference and trip hazards, and allowing for flexible vehicle placement, enhancing charging efficiency and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
An alternating current in the primary inductor (the electromagnetic power transmitting device) produces a fluctuating electromagnetic field. When the secondary inductor (electromagnetic power receiving device) is placed in proximity to the primary inductor (the electromagnetic power transmitting device), the fluctuating electromagnetic field induces an electromotive force (EMF) in the secondary inductor, thereby transferring power to the electromagnetic power receiving device.
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, an apparatus for charging an electric vehicle, can include a receptacle mountable to a structure above the electric vehicle. The receptacle can maintain a charge transmitting device, which can be automatically moveable and directable from the receptacle toward a target area on the electric vehicle associated with a receiving coil mounted on the electric vehicle for the charging of an electric vehicle when the one receiving coil engages with the charge transmitting device when the electric vehicle is located below the receptacle. One or more optical sensors can be utilized to direct the charge transmitting device toward the target.