Wireless Power Mesh Relay Nodes for Non-Line-of-Sight Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless power transmission systems are limited by range and require line-of-sight transmission, restricting their applicability in complex environments.
Innovation Solution
A wireless power networking system utilizing nodes with adaptive antenna arrays and metasurfaces to form a mesh network, enabling efficient power transfer and modulation between nodes, including transmit, receive, and relay nodes, with tunable electromagnetic properties to overcome range limitations and obstacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If point-to-point wireless power links are used, then power transmission efficiency is improved, but transmission range is limited and line-of-sight is required
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless power transmission system is divided into multiple relay nodes that segment the transmission path into multiple hops. Each relay node receives power wirelessly and retransmits it to the next node, enabling power delivery over extended distances without requiring direct line-of-sight between source and destination.
Solution Approach 2:
Relay nodes serve as intermediary elements between the power source and the final destination. These intermediate nodes receive electromagnetic energy and forward it along the transmission path, effectively extending the range while maintaining transmission efficiency through localized point-to-point links.
2Loss of energy
If point-to-point wireless power links are used, then transmission efficiency is improved, but adaptability to complex environments deteriorates due to line-of-sight requirements
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the transmission into multiple relay nodes, the system can navigate around obstacles and adapt to complex environments. Each segment maintains efficient point-to-point transmission while the overall path can be routed through available channels, improving environmental adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay node configuration is dynamic and can be reconfigured based on environmental conditions. Nodes can be activated or deactivated, and transmission paths can be adjusted in real-time to adapt to changing environmental constraints while maintaining transmission efficiency.
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
The system facilitates efficient wireless power transfer in complex environments by forming a mesh network with adaptive nodes and metasurfaces, enhancing range and flexibility in power transmission.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting, at a transmit node, RF power to a relay node
Implementation Method 2
controlling the relay node to modulate the incident RF power to define a beam-like mode directed toward a downstream node
Implementation Method 3
receiving, at a receive node, the RF power relayed through the mesh network of nodes
Data Source
AI summary
A system for wireless power networking, preferably including one or more nodes, such as transmit nodes, receive nodes, relay nodes, and/or hybrid nodes. The system may function to form a power network (e.g., mesh network) configured to transfer power wirelessly between nodes of the system. A method for wireless power networking, preferably including transmitting power, controlling relay nodes, and/or receiving power, and optionally including optimizing power network operation. The method is preferably performed at (e.g., by one or more nodes of) the system, but can additionally or alternatively be performed by any other suitable system(s).