Wireless Charging Pad Thermal Management via Interdependent Sensor Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless power delivery systems for information handling systems face challenges in efficiently managing power distribution and cooling, leading to potential overheating and reduced efficiency in charging processes.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a wireless charging pad with convection cooling and thermal control mechanisms, including inclined surfaces for natural airflow and thermally conductive magnetic shields, along with heat pipes for efficient heat dissipation, and a method for dynamically adjusting power transfer based on temperature and usage demands.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If wireless power delivery is increased to improve charging speed, then power transfer efficiency is improved, but heat generation increases causing overheating

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging speedVSAvoidheat generation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the harmful heat generated during wireless power delivery into a useful indicator for controlling the charging process. Temperature sensors detect heat generation, and this information is fed back to dynamically adjust power transfer levels, transforming the harmful thermal effect into a beneficial control mechanism that prevents overheating while maintaining optimal charging speed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes the power transfer parameter based on real-time temperature conditions. When temperature exceeds thresholds, the system reduces power delivery levels; when temperature is acceptable, it increases power delivery. This dynamic parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction between maintaining high charging speed and preventing excessive heat generation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Temperature

If thermal management components are added to control heat, then temperature control is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature controlVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
TemperatureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless charging pad performs thermal management autonomously through embedded temperature sensors and controller logic that automatically monitor temperature conditions and adjust power delivery without user intervention. The system self-regulates by detecting temperature changes and independently modifying charging parameters, eliminating the need for complex external thermal management systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The controller integrates multiple functions into a single component: it manages power delivery, monitors temperature through integrated sensors, processes feedback signals, and adjusts charging parameters. This multi-functional integration reduces overall system complexity by consolidating thermal management and power control functions into one unified system rather than requiring separate dedicated components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Temperature

If dynamic power adjustment is implemented to manage heat, then temperature control is improved, but power distribution efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature controlVSAvoidpower distribution efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
TemperatureVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements a closed-loop feedback mechanism where temperature sensors continuously monitor thermal conditions and relay this information to the controller. The controller uses this feedback to make real-time adjustments to power delivery levels, ensuring optimal efficiency at each moment. This feedback-driven approach prevents energy waste from both overheating and excessive cooling cycles

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs periodic temperature monitoring and power adjustment cycles rather than continuous modulation. Temperature is checked at regular intervals, and power delivery is adjusted in discrete steps based on these periodic measurements. This periodic action maintains adequate temperature control while minimizing the energy loss associated with constant system adjustments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 power distribution, reduces overheating, and enhances the overall performance and reliability of wireless charging by utilizing natural convection cooling and advanced thermal management techniques.

Implementation Method 1

a heat pipe thermally coupled to the charging antenna and in communication with the controller

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat pipe: Heat Pipe

Implementation Method 2

the heat pipe thermally coupled to the charging antenna

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 3

an inclined surface promoting natural convection airflow

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectConvection: Convection

Data Source

PatentUS9954387B2Wireless charging pad with interdependent temperature control and method therefor
Publication Date: 2018.04.24 DELL PROD LP
  • US9954387B2 patent drawing
  • US9954387B2 patent drawing
  • US9954387B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A wireless power transmission antenna is disposed at a wireless charging mat. Another second wireless power transmission antenna is disposed at another location at the wireless charging mat. A temperature sensor is disposed at a location between the antennas. The temperature sensor is responsive to heat propagated from both of the antennas. A controller regulates charging power at each antenna based on information provided by the temperature sensor.