Reconfigurable Distributed Wireless Charging Coil Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wireless charging systems use large, non-configurable inductive coils, which limit efficiency and flexibility in charging multiple devices with varying coil types and orientations.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable distributed active wireless charging system utilizing an array of unit coils, including eccentric coils, that can be configured to provide multiple magnetic fields and adapt to different devices by connecting coils in series or parallel, allowing for efficient energy transfer and near-field communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If large fixed inductive coils are used in conventional wireless chargers, then the charging function is provided, but the system lacks flexibility and cannot efficiently charge multiple devices with varying coil types and orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a large fixed coil into multiple smaller unit coils arranged in an array. Each unit coil can be independently controlled and configured, allowing the system to adapt to different device sizes, coil types, and orientations by selectively activating appropriate subsets of unit coils, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of the coil array through switching mechanisms that can connect unit coils in series or parallel based on real-time detection of device characteristics. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to optimize power transfer efficiency for various devices without requiring multiple fixed configurations, balancing versatility with manageable complexity
2Loss of energy
If conventional fixed coils are used, then the system structure is simple, but power transfer efficiency is limited when charging devices with different coil orientations and types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different subsets of unit coils to be activated based on the specific device being charged. Each unit coil can be independently controlled to optimize the magnetic field distribution for the particular device characteristics, thereby maximizing power transfer efficiency for each local charging scenario while maintaining overall system versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes electrical parameters (series/parallel connections) of the unit coils based on detected device characteristics such as coil orientation, size, and type. By dynamically adjusting these parameters, the system optimizes power transfer efficiency for each specific device configuration, resolving the contradiction between energy efficiency and adaptability
3Productivity
If an array of reconfigurable unit coils is implemented, then flexibility and power transfer efficiency are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated device detection and configuration selection. The system automatically detects device characteristics and selects the optimal coil configuration without requiring manual intervention or complex user input, thereby achieving high charging efficiency while keeping the control system manageable through rule-based automation
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 system achieves higher power transfer efficiency and flexibility in charging multiple devices with varying coil types and orientations, enabling efficient energy transfer and near-field communication.
Implementation Method 1
Wireless charging (also known as 'inductive charging') uses inductive coils to provide an electromagnetic field that transfers energy from a charging source to a consuming device
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic induction device includes an array of unit coils configured for coupling separately to a power source
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method utilizes an array of unit coils for wireless charging and/or near field communication. The array of unit coils can be configured to provide magnetic fields of various shapes to accommodate consuming devices and/or to accommodate types of devices. The array of unit coils can be any type of coils (e.g., eccentric coils that provide a concentrated current field and a strong magnetic field). The array of unit coils can be powered by one or more power sources.