Wireless Power Transfer Control Using In-Band and BLE Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless power transmission systems using the WPC standard rely on in-band communication for control signals, which limits communication range and efficiency, with no effective control over communication between power transmission and reception apparatuses that can execute both in-band and out-band communication.
Innovation Solution
A power transmission apparatus is configured with both in-band and out-band communication capabilities, utilizing a first communication unit for in-band communication and a second communication unit for out-band communication, allowing seamless transition and higher-speed control communication via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for enhanced connectivity and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If in-band communication is used for control signals in wireless power transmission, then communication can be performed using the same frequency as power transmission, but the communication range is limited and errors occur more frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The communication function is segmented into two independent parts: in-band communication unit for power transmission control and out-band communication unit for extended range communication. This allows each communication method to operate independently on different frequencies, resolving the contradiction between using the same frequency for power and control while limiting communication range.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless power transmission system is enhanced with multi-functionality by incorporating both in-band and out-band communication capabilities. The system can selectively use in-band communication for standard operations and out-band communication for extended range applications, making the system universally applicable to various communication range requirements.
2Productivity
If only in-band communication is used, then the system structure remains simple, but communication efficiency and speed are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system is divided into separate in-band and out-band communication units, each handling specific communication tasks. This segmentation allows the system to achieve higher communication efficiency through out-band communication while maintaining a modular structure that manages complexity through clear functional separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the communication parameter (frequency band) based on operational requirements. By switching between in-band and out-band communication modes, the system optimizes communication efficiency for different scenarios without requiring a complete system redesign, thus managing complexity through parameter variation rather than structural overhaul.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the transmission unit stops power transmission while maintaining in-band communication connection, then power is saved, but out-band communication connection may be lost requiring reconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The out-band communication unit acts as an intermediary that maintains communication connection independently of the power transmission state. While the in-band communication can be stopped to save power, the out-band connection persists and can quickly re-establish in-band communication when needed, eliminating reconnection delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by establishing and maintaining out-band communication connection in advance before power transmission stops. This pre-established connection serves as a backup pathway that prevents communication loss and enables rapid resumption of power transmission without reconnection time penalties.
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
Enables appropriate control and higher-speed communication between power transmission and reception apparatuses, improving the range and efficiency of wireless power transmission by supporting both in-band and out-band communication methods, specifically through BLE for out-band communication.
Implementation Method 1
According to the WPC standard, power transmission/reception and control communication therefor are performed via magnetic induction
Implementation Method 2
power transmission apparatus and a power reception apparatus complying with the WPC standard perform control communication using the same frequency as that used for power transmission/reception
Data Source
AI summary
A power transmission apparatus comprises: transmission unit configured to perform wireless power transmission to a power reception apparatus; first communication unit configured to perform communication via a first communication method; and second communication unit configured to perform communication via a second communication method, wherein, in a case where the transmission unit stops wireless power transmission to the power reception apparatus in a state in which the second communication unit and the power reception apparatus are connected based on information transmitted and received between the first communication unit and the power reception apparatus, the second communication unit performs communication to connect the second communication unit and the power reception apparatus.