Single Source Tuning Network for Dual Coil Wireless Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless power transfer systems for remote systems like electric vehicles require multiple power sources and tuning networks, increasing size, cost, and complexity, due to the need for separate sources to control multiple coils and adjust magnetic field strength and phase.
Innovation Solution
A wireless power transmitter that uses a single drive signal to selectively energize or disable primary coils, allowing the tuning network to route the signal to either one or both coils, maintaining resonance and adjusting the magnetic field for efficient power transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power sources and tuning networks are used to control multiple coils and adjust magnetic field strength and phase, then the magnetic field control and power transfer efficiency are improved, but the physical size, monetary cost, and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple coil control functions into a single power source and tuning network. The first and second conductive structures (coils) are both driven by the same power source through a switching circuit that selectively connects the power source to different coils based on operational requirements, eliminating the need for separate power sources for each coil.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching between different coil configurations using a switching circuit. The circuit can dynamically connect the power source to the first conductive structure, the second conductive structure, or both in series, allowing adaptive magnetic field control without requiring multiple static power sources.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power sources are used to drive multiple coils, then the power transfer flexibility and magnetic field shaping capability are improved, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single power source is designed to perform multiple functions by driving different coil configurations. The same power source can energize the first coil alone, the second coil alone, or both coils in series, providing universal control capability that replaces multiple specialized power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
A switching circuit acts as an intermediary between the single power source and the multiple conductive structures. This switching circuit simplifies control by providing a centralized control mechanism that routes power to appropriate coils based on system requirements, reducing the complexity of direct multi-source control.
3Reliability
If each coil is driven by a separate power source rated for full transmitter power, then the reliability and independent control of each coil are improved, but the physical size and monetary cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power supply function into a single source that serves all coils, reducing the total component count and physical size. The switching circuit enables this single power source to independently control each coil when needed, maintaining reliability while reducing transmitter size and cost.
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
This solution reduces the physical size and monetary cost of the transmitter while simplifying control, enhancing the efficiency and flexibility of wireless power transfer by dynamically shaping the magnetic field for improved coupling with secondary coils.
Implementation Method 1
a first conductive structure configured to generate a first field in response to being energized by a drive signal
Implementation Method 2
a second conductive structure in series with the first conductive structure and configured to generate a second field in response to being energized by the drive signal
Implementation Method 3
maintaining a tuning of the one or both of the first and second conductive structures driven by the drive signal
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for connecting and operating an AC source to a load. In one aspect a power supply topology is provided which may be of particular use in the area of wireless power transfer. The topology allows for a single source to energize one or more conductive structures configured to generate a field, improving power transfer to a power receiver.