Wireless Power Transfer Coil Array for Flexible Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wireless power transfer systems require precise alignment of transmitter and receiver coils, limiting the freedom of placement for devices or batteries being charged, and are not efficient for charging multiple devices with different power and voltage requirements or protocols.
Innovation Solution
The development of systems and methods that enable wireless power transfer with freedom of placement in one, two, or three dimensions, using inductive or magnetic charging, and allowing for charging of various devices with different power and voltage needs, through the use of flexible coil designs, communication protocols, and resonant coupling techniques, including the use of ferrite materials for shielding and power transfer optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional wireless power transfer systems use aligned transmitter and receiver coils of comparable size, then power transfer efficiency is maintained, but the freedom of placement for devices or batteries is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitter is divided into multiple independently controllable coil segments arranged in an array. Each coil can be individually activated or deactivated based on the position and requirements of the receiver, allowing flexible power transfer to devices placed at various locations without requiring precise alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single-point power transfer approach to a distributed array of coils covering a two-dimensional surface. This dimensional expansion allows receivers to be placed freely within the coverage area while maintaining efficient power transfer by selecting the optimal coil or combination of coils for each position.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional wireless power systems use fixed alignment requirements, then system complexity is reduced, but the ability to charge multiple devices with different power and voltage requirements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless power system is designed to support multiple power levels, voltage requirements, and communication protocols simultaneously through a single transmitter array. Different coil segments can be configured to serve different device types, and the system can adapt to various wireless power standards without requiring separate charging systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts which coils are activated, their power levels, and their operational parameters based on real-time detection of receiver positions and requirements. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt to different device needs while maintaining a relatively simple physical structure.
3Ease of operation
If wireless power transfer enables freedom of placement across larger surfaces, then ease of operation improves, but electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of activating the entire transmitter array at full power, the system selectively activates only the local coil segments needed for current charging operations. This localized activation reduces overall electromagnetic emissions while maintaining efficient power transfer to devices within the active zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous monitoring of the charging environment and dynamically adjusts coil activation to ensure that power is transferred efficiently only where needed. This continuous adaptation minimizes unnecessary electromagnetic emissions from inactive coils while maintaining uninterrupted charging for active devices.
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 efficient and flexible wireless power transfer across larger surfaces, allowing for charging of multiple devices with varying requirements without precise alignment, while minimizing electromagnetic interference and maximizing power transfer efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first charger or transmitter part (102) and a second receiver part (104). The charger and receiver can each comprise, include or consist of a coil or antenna for transfer of power wirelessly from the charger to the receiver by inductive or magnetic means
Implementation Method 2
The charger can also include a shield or flux guide comprising one or more layers of ferromagnetic, ferrite, conductive or other material or layer
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for enabling efficient wireless power transfer, and charging of devices and batteries, in a manner that allows freedom of placement of the devices or batteries in one or multiple (e.g., one, two or three) dimensions. In accordance with various embodiments, applications include inductive or magnetic charging and power, and wireless powering or charging of, e.g., mobile, electronic, electric, lighting, batteries, power tools, kitchen, military, medical or dental, industrial applications, vehicles, trains, or other devices or products. In accordance with various embodiments, the systems and methods can also be generally applied, e.g., to power supplies or other power sources or charging systems, such as systems for transfer of wireless power to a mobile, electronic or electric device, vehicle, or other product.