Self-Oscillating H-Bridge Circuit for Wireless Power Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional wireless power transfer devices require a separate dedicated microcontroller to control switching states for optimal efficiency and cannot operate in both wireless power transmission and reception modes effectively.

Innovation Solution

An H-bridge circuitry arrangement that self-oscillates, eliminating the need for external control by using a feedback loop and resonance circuit to generate a self-oscillating alternating current for wireless power transmission and rectifying induced voltage for wireless power reception.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If conventional wireless power transfer devices use an array of electrical switches/transistors with a separate dedicated microcontroller to control switching states, then optimal power transfer efficiency can be achieved, but device complexity increases due to additional controlling hardware

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower transfer efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The H-bridge circuitry arrangement is configured to self-oscillate, eliminating the need for external microcontroller control. The circuit automatically generates the oscillating current needed for wireless power transfer through its own internal feedback mechanisms, making it self-sufficient and removing the complexity of separate controlling hardware while maintaining optimal efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the functions of the H-bridge circuitry, oscillator, and control logic into a single integrated self-oscillating unit. This merging of previously separate components (switching circuitry, microcontroller, and oscillation generation) into one unified system reduces overall device complexity while preserving the ability to achieve optimal power transfer efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional wireless power transmission devices are designed for transmission mode, then they can provide wireless power transmission, but they are unable to operate in wireless power reception mode

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational mode versatilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The H-bridge circuitry arrangement is designed with universal functionality that allows it to operate in both wireless power transmission and reception modes. The same circuitry that generates oscillating current for transmission can also rectify induced voltage from received electromagnetic signals, enabling bidirectional operation without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each mode

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs the same H-bridge circuitry arrangement for both transmission and reception functions, essentially inverting its role between modes. During transmission, it generates and emits electromagnetic energy; during reception, it receives and rectifies electromagnetic energy. This inversion approach allows dual-mode operation using identical hardware, reducing complexity compared to having separate systems for each mode

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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 wireless power transfer and reception without the need for additional controlling hardware, allowing the same circuitry to function in both modes with high efficiency and reduced complexity.

Implementation Method 1

Some conventional devices may utilise an array of electrical switches/transistors to provide an alternating current through a coil to generate a wireless power transmission signal, e.g. time varying magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

to be received by a further coil of a receiving device to induce a voltage therein

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP3113314B1Apparatus and method for wireless power transfer
Publication Date: 2020.07.01 NOKIA TECHNOLOGIES OY
  • EP3113314B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3113314B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3113314B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

Examples of the present disclosure relate to an apparatus and method for wireless power transfer. According to an example of the present disclosure, there is provided a means configured to provide wireless power transmission in a wireless power transmission mode, wherein the means comprises an H bridge circuitry arrangement configured such that, in use during the wireless power transmission mode, the H bridge circuitry arrangement self-oscillates.