Transcutaneous Energy Transfer Positioning via DC Link Voltage Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optimizing the positioning of a transmitter unit relative to a receiver unit for efficient transcutaneous energy transfer is challenging, especially when the receiver unit is implanted under the skin, as precise alignment is difficult to achieve due to invisibility and detection issues.
Innovation Solution
An energy transfer system that determines the DC link voltage on the receiver unit's capacitor, calculates the coupling factor, and provides feedback through acoustic signals to guide optimal positioning, ensuring efficient energy transfer by controlling the charging process based on threshold voltage values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the receiver unit is implanted under the skin for transcutaneous energy transfer, then the wireless energy transfer advantage is achieved without permanent skin wounds, but the positioning of the transmitter unit becomes difficult due to invisibility and detection issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the receiver unit detects the DC link voltage and communicates positioning information back to the user through acoustic signals. The system continuously monitors the coupling factor and provides real-time feedback to guide the user in achieving optimal transmitter-receiver alignment, thereby resolving the positioning difficulty caused by the implanted receiver's invisibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical visualization methods (such as visible markers or external indicators on the receiver) with an acoustic feedback system. Instead of relying on mechanical or visual cues that would require physical modifications to the implanted device, the system uses electromagnetic field detection (DC link voltage measurement) and converts it into audible signals for positioning guidance.
2Productivity
If the transmitter unit and receiver unit are positioned optimally for efficient energy transfer, then the voltage induced in the secondary coil is maximized, but achieving precise positioning is difficult when the receiver is implanted under the skin
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses DC link voltage detection as a feedback mechanism to measure positioning accuracy. By monitoring the voltage level on the DC link capacitor, the system can determine the coupling factor and provide feedback to guide the user in achieving precise positioning, thereby maximizing energy transfer efficiency without requiring visible or easily detectable external markers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement parameter (DC link voltage) that indirectly reflects the positioning quality between transmitter and receiver. Instead of directly measuring the physical distance or alignment, the system uses the electrical parameter (voltage) as an intermediary to assess and optimize the magnetic coupling, simplifying the measurement process while maintaining precision.
3Ease of operation
If acoustic signals are used to provide positioning feedback, then real-time positioning guidance is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by using the same receiver unit and control circuitry for both energy reception and positioning feedback. The DC link voltage detection mechanism serves dual purposes: monitoring energy transfer efficiency and providing positioning guidance through acoustic signals. This approach adds positioning functionality without requiring separate dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own operational parameter (DC link voltage) to provide positioning feedback, rather than requiring external sensing components. The receiver unit leverages its inherent electrical measurements to generate positioning information, making the system self-sufficient and avoiding the need for additional sensors or external guidance equipment.
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 accurate and efficient wireless energy transfer by providing real-time positioning feedback, ensuring optimal alignment and preventing inefficient energy transfer until precise positioning is achieved.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic alternating field can thus be generated by means of the transmitter unit
Implementation Method 2
the magnetic field inducing a voltage and thus a current flow in a receiver unit with a secondary coil
Data Source
AI summary
An energy transfer system for wireless energy transfer includes a transmitter unit having a primary coil supplied with a supply voltage and a receiver unit separate from the transmitter unit having a secondary coil to which a DC link capacitor is connected by a rectifier. The energy transfer system further includes a first device configured to determine a value of a DC link voltage applied on the DC link capacitor when the supply voltage is applied on the primary coil, and a second device configured to perform at least one function based on the determined value of the DC link voltage or a variable derived therefrom. A receiver unit is configured to interact for wireless energy transfer with a transmitter unit separate from the receiver unit.