High-Efficiency WPT Systems for Potable Electronics Based on DC-Bias-Voltage- Controlled Variable Capacitor

Abstract

The power density of wireless power transfer (WPT) systems employed in portable electronics can be enhanced by increasing the operating frequency, but at the expense of lower efficiency due to increased switching and parasitic losses. This paper proposes a method, based on the DC-bias-voltage-controlled variable capacitor (VC) and variable frequency (VF) regulation, to improve the overall efficiency of the WPT system for portable electronics. The method uses VC on the primary side to detune the resonant tank and dynamically regulate the output power, while VF is employed to improve the system efficiency using a look-up table based on a power loss model. A DC bias voltage control module with self-supply ability is employed to control the equivalent capacitance of the VC. A control strategy is proposed to regulate both VC and VF. Experimental results of a 150W prototype are presented to demonstrate that constant output voltage can be maintained despite a wide load range, with an overall efficiency range of 82.1% (@25W) and 92.2% (@150W).