Wireless Power Foreign Object Detection Using Q-Factor and Resonance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless power transfer systems face challenges in accurately detecting foreign objects, as techniques relying solely on quality factor (Q-factor) measurements can be inaccurate due to variations in resonant frequency, leading to inefficient power transfer and potential overheating.

Innovation Solution

A method that measures both Q-factor and resonant frequency, calculates a figure of merit (FOM) based on these parameters, and compares it with a reference FOM to determine the presence of foreign objects, allowing for precise foreign object detection and adjusting power transfer accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If only Q-factor measurement is used for foreign object detection, then the detection method is simple, but the detection accuracy is low due to resonant frequency variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection method complexityVSAvoidforeign object detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the detection parameters from only Q-factor to a combination of Q-factor and resonant frequency measurements. By monitoring both parameters and comparing their changes against threshold values, the system achieves more accurate foreign object detection while accounting for resonant frequency variations that occur during wireless power transfer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If Q-factor measurement is used for foreign object detection, then the implementation is straightforward, but false detection occurs due to frequency variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection implementation easeVSAvoiddetection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors both Q-factor and resonant frequency, compares the changes against pre-determined threshold values, and adjusts power transfer accordingly. This feedback loop reduces false detections by distinguishing between normal frequency variations and actual foreign object presence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If foreign object detection is not performed, then power transfer continues without interruption, but power degradation and overheating occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower transfer continuityVSAvoidpower degradation and overheating
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary foreign object detection by measuring Q-factor and resonant frequency changes before allowing power transfer to continue or increase. By detecting foreign objects in advance through these parameter measurements and comparisons, the system prevents power degradation and overheating while minimizing interruptions to legitimate power transfer operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 approach enhances the accuracy of foreign object detection, improving the efficiency of wireless power transfer by differentiating between wireless power receivers and foreign objects, thereby preventing power degradation and overheating.

Implementation Method 1

magnetic induction (MI) systems

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

magnetic induction (MI) systems

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

measuring a first parameter corresponding to Q-factor and a second parameter corresponding to resonant frequency

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS11984736B2Detecting foreign objects in wireless power transfer systems
Publication Date: 2024.05.14 MEDIATEK SINGAPORE PTE LTD
  • US11984736B2 patent drawing
  • US11984736B2 patent drawing
  • US11984736B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Foreign object detection for a wireless power transmitter can be performed using a reference Q-factor and reference frequency for a wireless power receiver. A figure of merit may be calculated using the reference Q-factor and reference frequency. A Q-factor and resonant frequency may be measured, and a measurement figure of merit can be calculated. The figures of merit can be compared to determine where a foreign object is present.