Wireless RF Power Transmission Network with Overlapping Coverage

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current power transmission networks require hardwired connections for devices like motion sensors, which is impractical and inefficient, especially in applications where energy conservation is key, as each sensor needs power and a way to control operations.

Innovation Solution

A wireless power transmission network using RF power transmission nodes with overlapping coverage areas, allowing devices to receive power wirelessly and eliminating the need for hardwired connections, with a controller managing power transmission to prevent interference and dead spots.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If devices are hardwired to the AC power network, then reliable power supply is achieved, but installation complexity and practicality deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation practicality
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical hardwired connection system with an electromagnetic field-based wireless power transmission system. RF transmitters generate electromagnetic fields that couple with receivers to transfer power without physical connections, eliminating the need for electrical wiring while maintaining power supply reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces RF electromagnetic fields as an intermediary medium to transfer power between transmitter and receiver. This intermediary enables power transmission through space without direct physical contact, solving the contradiction between reliable power delivery and installation practicality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If wireless sensors are implemented, then ease of installation is improved, but power supply reliability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidpower supply stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces battery-based or AC-adapted power systems with a dedicated wireless RF power transmission system. This provides sensors with stable, continuous power delivery through electromagnetic coupling, matching the reliability of hardwired systems while maintaining wireless installation ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If overlapping coverage areas are created, then power transmission reliability is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower transmission reliabilityVSAvoidnetwork configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the coverage area into multiple overlapping zones, each served by a separate RF transmitter. This segmentation provides redundancy and ensures continuous power delivery even when individual transmitters experience interference or signal degradation, while the modular structure manages system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adjusts RF transmission parameters such as frequency, power level, and beam direction across overlapping coverage areas. By dynamically changing these parameters, the system optimizes power delivery reliability while managing the complexity of coordinating multiple transmitters through intelligent parameter management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 efficient power delivery to devices in both communication and power senses, reducing energy consumption and practicality issues by providing continuous coverage with minimized dead spots and shadowing effects.

Implementation Method 1

transmitting power wirelessly from a first node in a first area, the first area having a minimum electric or magnetic field strength

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a receiver that converts the power into current

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8380255B2Power transmission network
Publication Date: 2013.02.19 POWERCAST CORP
  • US8380255B2 patent drawing
  • US8380255B2 patent drawing
  • US8380255B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A network for power transmission to a receiver that converts the power into current includes a first node for transmitting power wirelessly in a first area. The first area has a minimum electric or magnetic field strength. The network includes a second node for transmitting power wirelessly in a second area. The second area has a minimum electric or magnetic field strength and overlaps the first area to define an overlap area. In another embodiment, the network includes a source in communication with the first and second nodes which provides power to them. Also disclosed are methods for power transmission to a receiver that converts the power into current.