Tunable Power Repeaters for Wireless Charging Lateral Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless power transmission systems, including inductive charging and magnetic resonance techniques, are limited in their lateral range, and commercially available solutions primarily focus on increasing the vertical range using passive repeaters, without effectively expanding the horizontal range for efficient power transfer.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that employs tunable power repeaters configured to operate at frequencies compatible with or distinct from the power transmitter, positioned optimally to enhance lateral power transmission range, using multiple repeaters and frequency control to manage power transfer efficiently, allowing for increased lateral and vertical range expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If passive repeaters are used to increase vertical range, then power transmission distance is improved, but lateral working range remains limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power transmission path into multiple segments by introducing repeaters at intermediate positions. Each repeater acts as an independent power transmission node, creating segmented transmission channels that collectively extend both vertical and lateral coverage areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from primarily vertical range extension to three-dimensional coverage by strategically positioning repeaters in spatial arrangements that simultaneously expand vertical height and lateral area, creating volumetric power transmission coverage rather than linear extension.
2Area of stationary object
If repeaters are positioned farther from transmitter, then lateral range is improved, but power transmission efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Repeaters function as intermediary power transmission nodes between the main transmitter and distant receivers. Each repeater receives power from its nearest transmitter or repeater and re-transmits it, creating intermediate power sources that maintain high efficiency over extended lateral distances by avoiding direct long-range transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically optimizes power transmission by allowing repeaters to operate at optimal power levels based on their position and load requirements. Frequency tuning and power adjustment capabilities enable each repeater to maintain efficient operation across varying distances and conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple repeaters operate at different frequencies, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes frequency as a variable parameter to enhance adaptability. Repeaters can be tuned to different frequencies based on their specific transmission requirements, receiver compatibility needs, and interference conditions, allowing flexible optimization of each transmission channel while maintaining overall system coordination.
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
The solution significantly increases the lateral range of wireless power transmission, enabling devices to be charged over a larger area without the need for precise alignment, while also potentially extending the vertical range, and can be integrated with existing infrastructure with minimal adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic field is generated at a transmitting coil with a compatible receiving coil that is configured for the generated field
Implementation Method 2
The magnetically induced current in the repeater creates a magnetic field of its own, such that this magnetic field of the repeater can be utilized to induce current in the receiving coil
Data Source
AI summary
A system for wireless power transmission to an electronic receiver placed in the vicinity of the system comprises a power transmitter and at least one power repeater coupled to the power transmitter. The power repeater is configured to repeat power between the power transmitter and the receiver, wherein the power repeater is tunable to a predetermined frequency, and wherein the power repeater is configured to allow operation at a frequency substantially equal to the frequency of the power transmitter.