Variable Form Factor Transmitter for Wireless Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless power transfer technologies face challenges in efficiently transmitting RF power across varying wireless power transfer areas without energy loss, particularly due to the dependence of characteristic frequencies on the adapted form factor, leading to inefficiencies and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A variable form factor transmitter is developed, comprising a string of distributed capacitors and wire segments, which adapts its form factor based on the power transfer area while maintaining a characteristic frequency independent of the adapted form factor, using RF power sourced within the ISM band to transmit power via a near electromagnetic field, reducing stray electric fields and energy loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the transmitter form factor is adapted to different power transfer areas, then the coverage area and versatility are improved, but the characteristic frequency becomes dependent on the form factor leading to energy loss and inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitter employs variable inductance that can be dynamically adjusted based on the operating conditions and power transfer area. This dynamic adjustment allows the transmitter to maintain optimal characteristic frequency across different form factors, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and energy efficiency. The variable inductance mechanism enables the system to adapt its electrical characteristics without sacrificing frequency stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the electrical characteristics of the transmitter, specifically adjusting inductance values, to maintain constant characteristic frequency while adapting to different power transfer areas. By changing the inductance parameter dynamically, the system achieves both versatility in coverage area and efficiency in power transfer, eliminating the energy loss associated with frequency drift.
2Reliability
If the transmitter is designed for a specific form factor, then the characteristic frequency remains stable, but the system cannot efficiently serve variable-sized power transfer areas
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitter incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through variable inductance that can be modified in real-time based on the required power transfer area. This dynamic feature allows the system to maintain frequency stability for each specific configuration while simultaneously being adaptable to serve various sized areas, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the transmitter with multi-functionality, enabling it to operate effectively across different power transfer areas by adjusting its inductance. This universal design allows a single transmitter to perform the function of multiple fixed-form-factor transmitters, maintaining frequency stability for each operating mode while providing versatility across variable-sized areas.
3Power
If conventional wireless power transfer methods are used, then power can be transmitted, but stray electric fields cause safety concerns and energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs resonant oscillation at the characteristic frequency of the transmitter to enhance power transfer efficiency. By operating at resonance, the system maximizes the coupling between transmitter and receiver, reducing the need for high power levels that would generate harmful stray electric fields. This resonant approach allows effective power transmission with minimized safety concerns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harmful effect of electric fields into a beneficial resonant coupling mechanism. By utilizing the natural resonant frequency of the system, the electric fields are confined and constructive interfered, enhancing power transfer rather than creating stray fields. This approach transforms what could be a safety hazard into the core mechanism for efficient and safe power transmission.
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 enables efficient and safe wireless power transfer across diverse areas by maintaining the characteristic frequency within the ISM band, reducing energy loss and improving safety by confining electrical fields, thus enhancing the reliability and efficiency of power transmission.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting, from a radio frequency (RF) power source and based at least in part on the characteristic frequency, RF power across the pre-determined wireless power transfer area via a near electromagnetic field of the variable form factor transmitter
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2A~2C
AI summary
A method for wireless power transfer. The method includes adapting a variable form factor transmitter into an adapted form factor based on a pre-determined wireless power transfer area, wherein the variable form factor transmitter in the adapted form factor comprises a characteristic frequency, maintaining the characteristic frequency to be substantially independent of the adapted form factor, and transmitting, from a radio frequency (RF) power source and based at least in part on the characteristic frequency, RF power across the pre-determined wireless power transfer area via a near electromagnetic field of the variable form factor transmitter.