Underwater Module Coil Layout for Aligned Wireless Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless power transfer systems face limitations in range and alignment requirements, particularly in underwater applications where traditional magnetic and electric induction methods are inefficient and prone to electrical damage.
Innovation Solution
A wireless power transfer system comprising a cylindrical housing with a receiver coil positioned adjacent to the inner surface, designed for underwater use, which extracts power from a field generated by a transmitter coil when aligned, and includes a metallic element for protection and a communication component for optimizing power transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If magnetic induction systems are used for wireless power transfer, then power transfer efficiency is improved through tight coupling, but the range is limited and alignment requirements are stringent
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the resonant frequency of both transmitter and receiver coils to match environmental conditions and maintain optimal power transfer. The resonant frequency can be tuned by adjusting capacitor values or inductor configurations, allowing the system to adapt to varying distances and alignment conditions while maintaining efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key parameters including operating frequency, coil geometry, and coupling factor to optimize power transfer. By operating at resonant frequencies and adjusting the coupling factor through variable capacitors or adjustable coil positions, the system achieves both extended range and maintained efficiency that traditional magnetic induction cannot provide.
2Length of stationary object
If resonant magnetic systems are used to increase power transfer range, then alignment issues are rectified, but the system complexity increases due to additional capacitors and resonance tuning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the coils, acts as a mounting structure for capacitors and tuning elements, and serves as the interface for wireless power transfer. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system design despite the added resonance capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses symmetric coil configurations and balanced capacitor arrangements to create equipotential regions that simplify the resonance tuning process. By ensuring symmetric placement of components, the system automatically achieves balanced resonance conditions, reducing the complexity of frequency matching and alignment procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional wireless power transfer systems are used underwater, then power transfer can occur, but electrical damage risks increase and efficiency decreases due to water conductivity
Solution Approach 1:
The housing acts as a flexible barrier that isolates the electrical components from the conductive water environment. By sealing all electrical connections within the housing and using non-conductive materials for the housing structure, the system prevents water ingress and eliminates the risk of electrical damage while maintaining wireless power transfer capability through the housing walls.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves as an intermediary barrier between the electrical components and the water environment. It allows magnetic field penetration for wireless power transfer while providing electrical isolation and protection, effectively mediating between the need for electromagnetic coupling and the need for electrical protection in the conductive water environment.
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 system enables efficient wireless power transfer underwater, overcoming alignment and range limitations, while protecting the transmitter from electrical damage and allowing for autonomous operation and data collection.
Implementation Method 1
Power transfer occurs due to coupling of magnetic fields between the coils or inductors of the transmitter and receiver
Implementation Method 2
the transmitter has a transmitter coil with a certain inductance that transfers electrical energy from the power source to the receiver
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided vehicle module adapted for underwater use comprising a housing enclosing a receiver of a wireless power transfer system. The receiver comprises a receiver coil positioned adjacent an inner surface of the housing and radially aligned with the housing. The receiver coil is for extracting power from a field generated by a transmitter coil of a transmitter of a wireless power transfer system when the transmitter coil at least partially surrounds the housing and is radially aligned with the receiver coil.