Inductively Coupled Power Transfer Research Articles

A Multilevel Inverter Topology for Inductively Coupled Power Transfer

This paper describes a multilevel inverter that can synthesize quantized approximations of arbitrary ac waveforms. This converter could be used to deliver power over multiple frequencies simultaneously. Unlike traditional multilevel inverters, this topology does not require an external voltage balancing circuit, a complicated control scheme, or isolated dc sources to maintain its voltage levels while delivering sustained real power. In this paper, we use this circuit for heating frequency selectable induction targets designed to stimulate temperature sensitive polymer gel actuators. For this application our multilevel inverter offers higher efficiency than a pulse width modulated full-bridge inverter (a more conventional power supply solution) at comparable levels of total harmonic distortion

Controlling Inrush Currents in Inductively Coupled Power Systems

In an Inductively Coupled Power Transfer (ICPT) system, a multiplicity of (moving) loads take power from an elongated conductive loop (track) excited by a current in the range of 15-125A by magnetic induction at a VLF frequency of between 5-50kHz. In this application, the track performs the same function as a distribution line in a power system. However, frequency deviations cannot be tolerated in ICPT systems and therefore there are difficulties with inrush power surges as loads switch on. In severe cases, the inrush surge may compromise the security of the whole system.This paper proposes a solution to this problem using an ICPT pickup controller with input shaping where the poles that can cause an inrush are not excited. The paper is supported by theoretical analysis and experimental measurements and is applicable across a wide range of ICPT sizes and applications. The solution reduces the inrush effects to 10% of an uncontrolled system.

Improved Power Flow Control for Contactless Moving Sensor Applications

An improved power flow control method for contactless moving sensor applications is proposed. The method allows the design of a system where sensors with different power ratings or a wide range of load variations can be implemented. A phase-controlled variable inductor is used to tune the resonant circuit of the power pickups of an inductively coupled power transfer (ICPT) system according to the actual power requirements of the sensors, thereby, helping to reduce the power losses without affecting the maximum power transfer capacity. Soft switching is achieved in the variable inductor control, and the effect of the equivalent tuning parameters on the power flow is analyzed theoretically. Simulation results show that a significant improvement of the existing controllers is achieved at no load or very lightly loaded conditions.

Power Transfer Capability and Bifurcation Phenomena of Loosely Coupled Inductive Power Transfer Systems

Loosely coupled inductive power transfer (LCIPT) systems are designed to deliver power efficiently from a stationary primary source to one or more movable secondary loads over relatively large air gaps via magnetic coupling. In this paper, a general approach is presented to identify the power transfer capability and bifurcation phenomena (multiple operating modes) for such systems. This is achieved using a high order mathematical model consisting of both primary and secondary resonant circuits. The primary compensation is deliberately designed to make the primary zero phase angle frequency equal the secondary resonant frequency to achieve maximum power with minimum VA rating of the supply. A contactless electric vehicle battery charger was used to validate the theory by comparing the measured and calculated operational frequency and power transfer. For bifurcation-free operation, the power transfer capability and controllability are assured by following the proposed bifurcation criteria. Where controllable operation within the bifurcation region is achievable, a significant increase in power is possible.

DC analysis technique for inductive power transfer pick-ups

Inductively coupled power transfer (ICPT) systems are now being used in applications where their efficiency and stability are critically important. In this paper, an ICPT pick-up is analyzed under conditions where the pick-up tuning is assumed to be essentially perfect, and all diodes are assumed to have continuous current flow in them. The analysis proceeds by replacing the existing parallel resonant tank and rectifier circuit with a DC source and transformer equivalent, thereby reducing the complexity of the circuit, and eliminating the diodes. The DC equivalent is shown to have the same energy storage and power capability as the original circuit and is accurate under all loadings for both transient and steady-state conditions. With this simplification, analytic transfer functions for the pick-up with respect to its excitation current and its control switch duty cycle are developed. The ICPT system model is shown to have multiple poles, with complex zeroes on the right half plane. The model allows a sophisticated controller to be designed to give the ICPT system the required stability at high efficiency.

Critical Q analysis of a current-fed resonant converter for ICPT applications

Power electronic resonant converters designed for inductively coupled power transfer (ICPT) applications are normally controlled to switch at zero voltage switching (ZVS) frequencies and operate with minimal quality factor Q for economic and practical reasons. This Letter analyses various resonant frequencies and defines a new minimum bound on Q that ensures ZVS operation.