Wireless Energy Distribution via Tunable Resonator Arrays

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless energy transfer systems face challenges in efficiently distributing power over large areas without wired connections, particularly when devices are moving or repositioned, due to issues like wire tangles and tripping hazards, and large mismatches between source and device wireless energy capture modules lead to inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

The use of resonators positioned around a source to generate and extend an oscillating magnetic field, with repeater resonators to distribute energy over a defined area, and tunable resonators that can adjust frequency and parameters dynamically to optimize energy distribution, integrated into flooring materials and using network routing algorithms for efficient energy routing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If wired connections are used for energy distribution, then power delivery is reliable, but wire tangles and tripping hazards occur when devices are moving

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower delivery reliabilityVSAvoidwire tangles and tripping hazards

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with a wireless electromagnetic field-based energy transfer system. Source resonators generate oscillating magnetic fields that couple with device resonators, eliminating physical wires and their associated hazards while maintaining reliable power delivery to moving devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses periodic oscillating magnetic fields at resonant frequencies to transfer energy wirelessly. The source resonators generate continuous oscillating fields that periodically couple with device resonators, enabling sustained wireless power delivery without mechanical connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

2Device complexity

If single source resonator is used, then system is simple, but energy distribution over large areas is inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem complexityVSAvoidenergy distribution efficiency over large area

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the energy distribution system into multiple source resonators positioned around the coverage area. Each source resonator serves a local zone, and their combined coverage provides efficient energy distribution over large areas. This segmentation reduces the energy loss that would occur with a single distant source.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a single-point source to a distributed array of sources arranged in two-dimensional spatial configuration. This dimensional expansion allows energy to be delivered from multiple directions and locations, improving overall distribution efficiency across the coverage area.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of manufacture

If fixed frequency resonators are used, then manufacturing is simple, but energy distribution cannot be optimized for different devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresonator manufacturing simplicityVSAvoidenergy distribution optimization for different devices

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements tunable resonators with adjustable resonant frequencies that can be dynamically optimized for different devices and conditions. The resonant frequency, quality factor, and coupling strength of each source resonator can be independently tuned to match the specific requirements of nearby devices, maximizing energy transfer efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows dynamic adjustment of key resonator parameters including resonant frequency, quality factor (Q), and coupling strength. These parameter changes enable the resonators to adapt to different devices, distances, and environmental conditions, optimizing energy distribution while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 practical wireless energy distribution over areas of up to 10 cm² or 2 m², ensuring reliable power delivery to multiple devices while minimizing deployment complexity and maximizing efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

The one or more source may be coupled to an energy source and generate an oscillating magnetic field which may be transferred to the repeater resonators around the sources

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

Resonators and resonator assemblies may be positioned to distribute wireless energy over a larger area

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS9065423B2Wireless energy distribution system

Publication Date: 2015.06.23 WITRICITY AI TECH LLC

AI summary

Described herein are systems for wireless energy transfer distribution over a defined area. Energy may be distributed over the area via a plurality of repeater, source, and device resonators. The resonators within the area may be tunable and the distribution of energy or magnetic fields within the area may be configured depending on device position and power needs.