Wireless Power Transfer Path Switching for Multi-Power Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless power transfer (WPT) systems face inefficiencies that limit power transfer rates and compatibility with both low-power and high-power sources, leading to heating issues and suboptimal charging performance in various environments.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a dynamically reconfigurable WPT system with separate transmitter and receiver paths optimized for different power levels, utilizing controller circuitry to select the appropriate path based on the power source level, and dynamic adjustment of WPT characteristics based on load measurements to enhance efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single WPT system configuration is used for both low-power and high-power modes, then device complexity is reduced, but power transfer efficiency deteriorates at non-optimized power levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of the WPT system by switching between different transmitter path circuitries based on the power level detected from the power source. The controller circuitry dynamically selects between first and second TX path circuitries to optimize efficiency for either low-power or high-power modes, making the system adaptable rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The WPT system is segmented into multiple independent transmitter path circuitries, each optimized for specific power levels. The first TX path circuitry handles low-power operations while the second TX path circuitry handles high-power operations, allowing each segment to operate at peak efficiency for its designated power range.
2Productivity
If higher power levels are used for rapid charging, then charging speed is improved, but heating increases due to WPT system inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes operational parameters by selecting different transmitter path circuitries based on the required power level. When high power is needed for rapid charging, the second TX path circuitry is activated which is optimized to minimize inefficiencies and reduce heat generation at high power levels, rather than operating a low-power optimized system at its limit.
3Loss of energy
If WPT system properties are optimized for a specific power level, then efficiency is improved at that power level, but adaptability to different power sources deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The WPT system achieves multi-functionality by incorporating multiple transmitter path circuitries that can handle different power levels. The controller circuitry universally interfaces with various power sources (USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB-C, wall adapters) and automatically selects the appropriate TX path circuitry based on the detected power source capabilities, making the system both efficient and universally compatible.
4Temperature
If low power levels are used, then heating is reduced, but charging rate is limited by WPT system inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational mode based on the power source available. When a low-power source is detected, the first TX path circuitry is activated to operate efficiently at low power levels. When a high-power source is available, the system switches to the second TX path circuitry to enable rapid charging, thus dynamically adapting the charging rate to match the power source capabilities while maintaining 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
This approach improves power-transfer efficiency across a wide range of power levels, optimizing performance for both low-power and high-power modes, thereby addressing heating issues and ensuring efficient charging while maintaining compatibility with various power sources.
Implementation Method 1
WPT uses a non-contact technique to deliver energy from a base station to a power-recipient device. Most typically, WPT applications utilize inductive coupling arrangements in which coil antennas at the base station and power-recipient device are placed into close proximity to form a transformer through which power may be transferred.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless power transfer (WPT) system is operative to dynamically make power-transfer efficiency optimizations based on supply power, load characteristics, or a combination thereof. In various embodiments, optimizations include power-level-specific path selection, loading-based WPT voltage adjustments, and other techniques in various combinations.