Power boundaries in resonant electrodynamic wireless power transfer systems

Abstract

This article focuses on deriving the maximum power that can be transmitted using recent wireless power transfer technology based on an electrodynamic receiver. Analytical derivations reveal two main constraints that can limit transmitted power: the magnetic field safety limit and the maximum stress before breaking the receiver. From these limits, expressions of maximum magnetic forces and power are derived, providing physical insights on how to optimize the transmitted power. Interestingly, the optimal electrical condition and the optimal electromechanical efficiency differ when maximizing the transmitted power under each constraint. In the final section of the paper, the proposed theoretical boundaries are applied to two types of receivers, based on either electromagnetic or piezoelectric transducers. The results demonstrate that the maximum power density achievable with both receivers is inherently limited (<10 mW/cm3) under realistic assumptions regarding electromechanical coupling and electrical circuitry. This value is smaller than some previously reported results involving rotating or magnetoelectric solutions, indicating that clamped-free beams are not the optimal solution for electrodynamic wireless power transfer. This analysis can be extended to other types of receivers and will be useful for optimizing, sizing, and assessing any technological solution for wireless power transfer.