Adjustable coupler for inductive contactless power transfer system to improve lateral misalignment tolerance

摘要

Coil misalignment is a critical issue in practical inductive contactless power transfer (ICPT) systems, which may decrease transfer efficiency and system instability. This paper proposes an adjustable coupler for ICPT systems in order to improve the lateral misalignment tolerance. Multiple coils are included in the adjustable coupler, which are inspired by the texture of tortoise-shell, can provide three different powering areas under the cooperation of switches groups and adjustable coupler. Larger misalignment tolerance can be achieved by switching the powering areas. This method does not require mechanical movements of any part of the system and is suitable for EVs wireless charging. With the lateral misalignment of 16 cm in ICPT experimental prototype, results show that the transfer efficiency is increased and the misalignment tolerance is also improved.