Wireless Charging Pad Alignment via Induced Current Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless charging systems for electric vehicles face inefficiencies due to alignment errors between the wireless power transmission and reception pads, leading to reduced charging efficiency and increased charging time, particularly because drivers struggle to manually align these pads accurately.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for automatically aligning wireless power transmission and reception pads using a mechanical device with a manipulator structure and ultrasonic sensors, allowing for fine adjustments and maximizing current induction during vehicle stops, thereby optimizing charging efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the size of the wireless power transmission pad is increased to minimize alignment errors, then wireless charging efficiency is improved, but cost and power consumption increase excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the induced current itself as the feedback signal for alignment control. The wireless power transmission pad automatically adjusts its position based on the induced current magnitude, eliminating the need for external alignment assistance and enabling self-optimization of charging efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system measures the induced current generated in the wireless power reception pad and uses this measurement as feedback to control the position of the wireless power transmission pad. The alignment control unit continuously adjusts the transmission pad position based on induced current variations to maximize charging efficiency
2Adaptability or versatility
If the wireless power reception pad is mounted on the lower part of the vehicle for wireless charging, then wireless charging functionality is enabled, but visual alignment becomes difficult for drivers
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment process is automated through the alignment control unit that uses induced current measurements to automatically position the transmission pad. The driver does not need to manually align the pads visually; the system performs self-alignment during the charging process
Solution Approach 2:
The manual visual alignment process is replaced with an automated electromagnetic-based alignment system. Instead of relying on visual cues and manual positioning, the system uses induced current measurement and automatic control to achieve precise alignment
3Ease of operation
If manual alignment by driver is used, then alignment process is simple, but alignment accuracy is insufficient leading to power waste
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automatic feedback control by measuring the induced current and using this information to continuously adjust the transmission pad position. This closed-loop control ensures high alignment accuracy without requiring manual intervention or complex driver operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-alignment automatically using the induced current as a guide. The alignment control unit independently adjusts the transmission pad position to maximize induced current, eliminating the need for driver involvement while achieving precise alignment
4Ease of operation
If wireless power transmission pad is installed at the center of the lane, then accessibility is improved, but alignment errors occur due to vehicle position variations
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static fixed-position transmission pad to a dynamic adjustable position system. The transmission pad can move and adjust its position automatically based on real-time induced current measurements, adapting to vehicle position variations while maintaining high alignment precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses induced current measurement as feedback to continuously monitor and adjust the transmission pad position. This feedback mechanism compensates for vehicle position variations, maintaining precise alignment even when the vehicle is not perfectly centered in the lane
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 automatic alignment method minimizes alignment errors, enhances charging efficiency, reduces power waste, and simplifies the charging process by ensuring precise alignment without driver intervention, thereby improving the overall efficiency and convenience of wireless charging for electric vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
electric energy is transmitted to the wireless charging reception pad of the vehicle through electromagnetic induction or electromagnetic resonance to charge the battery provided in the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
electric energy is transmitted to the wireless charging reception pad of the vehicle through electromagnetic induction or electromagnetic resonance to charge the battery provided in the vehicle
Implementation Method 3
making a request to the electric vehicle for generation of an induced current, measuring the induced current received through a wireless power transmission pad
Data Source
AI summary
A microscopic alignment method for wireless charging of an electric vehicle, and an apparatus and system therefor. The microscopic alignment method includes determining whether the electric vehicle is stopped, based on the electric vehicle being stopped, making a request to the electric vehicle for generation of an induced current, measuring the induced current received through a wireless power transmission pad, performing fine alignment of the wireless power transmission pad based on the induced current, and based on the fine alignment being completed, transmitting wireless power via the wireless power transmission pad.