Multi-Device Wireless Power Transfer With Magnetic Flux Shaping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless power transfer systems face challenges in efficiently transferring power over longer distances due to decreased mutual inductance and increased electromagnetic interference (EMI) and heat generation, which limits their effectiveness in multi-device charging applications, especially in harsh environments or when foreign objects are present.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates custom-shaped magnetic materials and heat dissipation features to concentrate magnetic fields, reduce EMI, and manage heat effectively, allowing for efficient power transfer at extended distances and volumes, while also detecting foreign objects and optimizing power delivery across multiple devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If transmitter inductance and/or receiver inductance are increased to counteract coupling decrease at larger distances, then wireless power transfer capability at larger distances is improved, but equivalent series resistance increases leading to more heat and greater energy losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the transmitting and receiving coils, specifically operating at resonant frequencies to achieve high Q-factors. This allows effective power transfer at larger distances without requiring excessive inductance values that would cause high energy losses. The resonant coupling mechanism enables the system to overcome the coupling decrease at distance while maintaining efficient energy transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a multi-functional approach where the transmitting and receiving coils serve both as inductive coupling elements and as resonant oscillators. This dual functionality allows the system to achieve both the necessary coupling for distance transmission and the efficiency of resonant energy transfer, avoiding the trade-off between distance and energy loss.
2Length of stationary object
If transmitter inductance and/or receiver inductance are increased to counteract coupling decrease at larger distances, then wireless power transfer capability at larger distances is improved, but heat generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
By operating at resonant frequencies with high Q-factors, the patent reduces the current requirements for power transfer at larger distances. This parameter change minimizes I²R heating in the coils and associated components, thereby controlling heat generation while maintaining effective transmission distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor and adjust operating parameters in real-time, optimizing the balance between transmission distance and heat generation. This allows the system to maintain efficient power transfer while preventing excessive heat buildup through dynamic parameter adjustment.
3Length of stationary object
If designs transmit power effectively at larger distances, then wireless power transfer capability is improved, but electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes resonant frequencies and high Q-factor operation to concentrate electromagnetic energy in specific frequency bands, reducing broadband electromagnetic interference. The resonant coupling mechanism creates a more focused and directed energy transfer path, minimizing stray electromagnetic fields that could cause interference to other 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
This solution enables wireless power transfer at distances up to 5 mm to 25 mm with wattage ranging from 1 nW to 30 W, reducing EMI and heat buildup, and ensuring reliable operation in demanding applications without the need for active cooling, thus enhancing the efficiency and reliability of wireless power transmission.
Implementation Method 1
Inductive wireless power transfer occurs when magnetic fields created by a transmitting element induce an electric field, and hence electric current, in a receiving element
Implementation Method 2
custom-shaped magnetic materials and heat dissipation features to concentrate magnetic fields
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to an apparatus which comprises a wireless power transmission system. This system comprises features which allow it to transfer more power wirelessly to multiple devices simultaneously, each at extended distances than other systems operating in the same frequency range. The system including heat dissipation features, allowing the system to operate effectively in elevated-temperature environments and to transfer power at higher levels and/or greater distances than a typical power-transfer system. The system also may include design features to withstand mechanical shocks, stresses, and impacts for use in a rugged environment. The system may include features to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and/or specially shaped components with magnetic/ferrimagnetic properties that enhance performance. Other potential features include power conditioning by combining, within one circuit or one board, multiple elements that protect against excessive current, over-voltage, and/or reverse voltage.