Energies (Jul 2018)

Coupling-Independent Capacitive Wireless Power Transfer Using Frequency Bifurcation

  • Ben Minnaert,
  • Franco Mastri,
  • Nobby Stevens,
  • Alessandra Costanzo,
  • Mauro Mongiardo

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/en11071912
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11, no. 7
p. 1912

Abstract

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Capacitive wireless power transfer can be realized by mutually coupled capacitors operating at a common resonant frequency. An optimal load exists that maximizes either the efficiency or the power transfer to the load. In this work, we utilize the frequency bifurcation effect to propose a frequency agile mode that allows for a nearly coupling-independent regime. We analytically determine the operating conditions of the coupling-independent mode based on the different system gains. In this way, we obtain a solution that achieves nearly constant efficiency and power transfer, even at varying coupling. We compare our results to inductive wireless power transfer where a perfect coupling-independent mode is achievable.

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