Wireless Power Transfer Thermal Mitigation via Dynamic Frequency
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
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 harsh environments and multi-device charging applications.
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 without excessive temperature rise, using components like magnetic cores and multi-layer coils with advanced firmware for control and foreign object detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If transmitter inductance and receiver inductance are increased to counteract coupling decrease at larger distances, then power transfer capability is improved, but equivalent series resistance increases leading to more heat and greater energy losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the operating frequency of the wireless power transfer system based on the distance between transmitter and receiver. As distance increases, the system shifts frequency to maintain optimal coupling and power transfer efficiency without requiring excessive inductance increases that would cause harmful ESR and energy losses.
2Power
If transmitter inductance and receiver inductance are increased to counteract coupling decrease at larger distances, then power transfer capability is improved, but electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes the operating frequency parameter to maintain effective power transfer at larger distances without requiring excessive inductance increases. This frequency adaptation prevents the generation of excessive electromagnetic interference while preserving power transfer capability across varying distances.
3Temperature
If heat dissipation components such as heatsinks, ridges, fans are used for thermal mitigation, then heat management is improved, but device complexity increases and product requirements make them difficult or impossible to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical heat dissipation components (heatsinks, fans, ridges) with an electrical solution - dynamic frequency adjustment. By changing the operating frequency, the system inherently manages thermal conditions without requiring additional mechanical thermal mitigation components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining effective heat management.
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 more efficient wireless power transfer over distances of up to 25 mm with wattage ranging from 1 nW to 30 W, while maintaining low EMI and heat management, supporting multiple devices and operating in demanding conditions without active cooling.
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
This system comprises features which allow the transfer of more power wirelessly at longer ranges, extended distances and larger volumes than present-day systems operating in the same or similar frequency or frequency range.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to an apparatus which comprises a wireless power transfer (WPT) system. This system comprises features which allow it to transfer more power wirelessly at extended distances than other systems operating in the same frequency range. The system possesses heat dissipation features; these features allow it 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 might include design features to withstand mechanical shocks, stresses, and impacts for use in a rugged environment. The system can also comprise adaptations to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI), and can comprise 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. Other features might include integration of an antenna and a battery within one module.