Rotatable Wireless Power Paddle for Non-Binding Disconnects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Warfighters face challenges in maintaining optimal battery power levels during missions due to limited access to charging infrastructure, especially in combat situations, and traditional electro-mechanical connectors are unreliable and cumbersome, particularly in extreme environments like underwater or space applications.
Innovation Solution
A wireless power transfer system using a paddle and retainer design with inductive power transfer and RF data capabilities, allowing for one-handed operation and secure, efficient power and data transfer without physical connectors, suitable for various environments including underwater and space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional electro-mechanical connectors are used for power transfer, then physical connection is established, but the system becomes unreliable and cumbersome in extreme environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional electro-mechanical connectors with a wireless power transfer system using electromagnetic induction. The transmitter paddle and receiver paddle enable power transfer without physical contact, eliminating the reliability issues and operational difficulties associated with mechanical connectors in extreme environments such as underwater or space applications.
2Ease of operation
If wireless power transfer is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but connection security and power transfer reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs circular paddles with curved geometries that enable rotational freedom while maintaining secure engagement. The circular shape allows the paddles to be inserted at various angles and automatically self-align, providing both ease of operation and secure connection without the fragility of mechanical connectors.
3Productivity
If rapid power transfer is achieved, then charging time is reduced, but power transfer speed and safety control become critical
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless power transfer system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor and control the power transfer process in real-time, enabling rapid charging while maintaining safety through continuous adjustment of power levels based on system conditions.
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 rapid and reliable power transfer and data communication, maintaining battery levels and device functionality in harsh environments, with enhanced safety and reduced maintenance needs, and supports high-capacity charging and multiple power levels up to 400 W.
Implementation Method 1
A wireless power transfer system is defined as any system where electrical power is transmitted from a power source to an electrical load without interconnecting wires. The power can be transferred across a gap such as an air-filled gap
Data Source
AI summary
A rotatable paddle wireless power transfer system provides a robust electric power and data connection between a user and a support vehicle or structure adapted for use in harsh environments. A paddle retention clamp such as a pair of sprung circumferential fingers coupled on either side of a gap into a paddle retainer allows the paddle to be easily removably inserted by a user into the retainer, for example with only a single heavily gloved hand. When the paddle is docked in the paddle retainer, the paddle may be easily rotated relative to the retainer, with up to 90 degrees of rotational freedom so as to provide a non-binding disconnect of the paddle from the paddle retainer during normal or emergency disconnects through 360 degrees of force applied by the user to an electrical umbilical cable affixed to the paddle.