Wireless Power Transfer Across Barriers in Fluid Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Installing new or additional components in fluid delivery apparatuses, such as faucets, is complicated by the lack of access to electrical power outlets for components located underneath countertops or behind barriers, requiring the running of separate power lines.
Innovation Solution
A wireless power transfer device using inductive power transfer, where a primary coil above the barrier supplies power to a secondary coil located below, eliminating the need for hardwired connections and allowing power to be transmitted across barriers, such as under countertops or within cabinets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If components are installed underneath countertops or behind barriers, then functionality of fluid delivery apparatus is improved, but access to electrical power outlets becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical connection system (hardwired power lines) with an electromagnetic field-based wireless power transfer system. A primary coil in the power supply circuit generates a magnetic field that couples with a secondary coil in the barrier, enabling power transfer without physical electrical connections through the barrier.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a barrier (such as a countertop or wall) as an intermediary medium that allows electromagnetic coupling between the primary and secondary coils. The barrier itself becomes part of the power transfer pathway, eliminating the need to route power lines through or around it.
2Reliability
If separate power lines are run to provide power to components, then electrical power is delivered reliably, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for physical power line installation by using electromagnetic induction. The primary coil generates a magnetic field that transfers power wirelessly to the secondary coil, replacing the complex task of running electrical conduits through barriers with a simple electromagnetic coupling system.
3Device complexity
If wireless power transfer is implemented, then installation complexity is reduced, but electrical isolation between power supply and load is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses electromagnetic induction to create galvanic isolation between the power supply circuit and the load circuit. The magnetic field coupling between primary and secondary coils provides electrical isolation while maintaining power transfer, ensuring safety and reliability without direct electrical connections.
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 isolated power delivery to electrically powered components, simplifying installation and operation by providing power and control signals wirelessly, reducing the complexity of accessing power outlets and enhancing the functionality of fluid delivery systems.
Implementation Method 1
In inductive power transfer, power is wirelessly transferred from a primary coil in a power supply circuit to a secondary coil in a secondary circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid delivery apparatus includes a fluid outlet located on a first side of a barrier and at least one electrically powered component located on a second side of the barrier. The apparatus also includes a wireless power transfer device to supply power to the electrically powered component.