Wireless Power Transmitter Control Under Changing Transfer Conditions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless power transfer systems, such as those adhering to the Qi specification, often adopt a conservative approach to power control, resulting in unnecessarily low power levels due to worst-case scenario considerations, which can lead to inefficient energy transfer and potential malfunctions when operating conditions improve.
Innovation Solution
Implement a power transmitter that dynamically determines a maximum acceptable available power level based on current operating parameters, allowing the power level to be increased above the guaranteed minimum during the power transfer phase when conditions permit, while reducing the power level if it exceeds this maximum, without requiring complex re-negotiation or additional communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conservative power control approach is used based on worst-case scenario considerations, then reliability is improved, but power transfer efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static guaranteed minimum power level to a dynamic maximum acceptable available power level that adapts in real-time to current operating conditions. The power transmitter continuously monitors parameters such as temperature, input power availability, and coupling conditions, and adjusts the maximum acceptable available power level accordingly. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to operate at higher power levels when conditions permit, improving power transfer efficiency while maintaining reliability through continuous monitoring and adjustment.
2Loss of energy
If the power level is increased above the guaranteed minimum when conditions permit, then power transfer efficiency is improved, but system stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring operating parameters (temperature, input power, coupling conditions) and using this information to adjust the maximum acceptable available power level. The power transmitter receives feedback from the power receiver about actual power transfer conditions and adjusts its output accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism maintains system stability while allowing power levels to be optimized based on real-time conditions, preventing malfunctions that could arise from excessive power levels.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic adjustment of power level is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the maximum acceptable available power level based on varying operating parameters such as temperature, input power availability, and coupling conditions. Rather than changing the physical structure or adding complex hardware, the system adapts by modifying operational parameters (power level settings) in response to environmental and operational conditions. This approach achieves high adaptability with relatively simple implementation, as it relies on parameter adjustment rather than structural complexity.
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 enables more flexible and efficient power management, allowing higher power transfer when possible, optimizing performance, and ensuring reliable operation by adapting to changing conditions while maintaining safety.
Implementation Method 1
power is inductively transferred from a transmitter inductor in a power transmitter device to a receiver coil in the individual devices
Data Source
AI summary
The power transmitter (101) providing power to a power receiver (105) comprises a communicator (309) communicating with the power receiver (105) and a negotiator (305) negotiating a guaranteed power level with the power receiver (105) prior to a power transfer phase. The guaranteed power level is a minimum power level guaranteed by the power transmitter (101) throughout the power transfer phase. During the power transfer phase, a determiner (307) dynamically determines an available power level based on the prevailing operating parameters. The available power level is one that can currently be provided but is not guaranteed. The power controller (309) is arranged to, during the power transfer phase, increase the power level above the guaranteed minimum level in response to power control messages, and to reduce the power level regardless of the power control messages in response to a detection that the power level exceeds the available power level.