Resonant Frequency Modulation for Regulation and Security in Wireless Power Transfer

This technology regulates and secures power transfer between compliant wireless chargers and devices. Through public authentication key protocol and resonant frequency modulation, this technology can provide wireless power to multiple devices at once, such as in Internet of Things (IOT) applications.

Researchers

Nachiket Desai / Chiraag Juvekar / Anantha Chandrakasan

Departments: Dept of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science
Technology Areas: Energy & Distribution: Energy Storage
Impact Areas: Sustainable Future

  • detuning for a resonant wireless power transfer system including cooperative power sharing
    United States of America | Granted | 11,018,526
  • resonant frequency modulation for regulation and security in wireless power transfer
    Patent Cooperation Treaty | Published application

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Technology

This technology employs a secure and cooperative power sharing method. It comprises of wireless resonant inductive power receivers that use a public authentication key protocol. Each receiver includes a public key that securely pairs with a private key only owned by a compliant charger, allowing for multiple devices to connect to one charger. The receivers also have a wireless detuning function to control the amount of power received from a charger based on different operating conditions (i.e., proximity and orientation of devices to the charger). This detuning functionality is possible through resonant frequency modulation between the two coupled coils in a receiver.

Problem Addressed

Coupled inductors enable wireless recharging of personal electronics, wearable technologies, and IOT devices. Counterfeit wireless chargers that do not fulfil power specs of a device can send harsh transient signals, causing damage in the device’s battery and surrounding hardware. Secure hash algorithm (SHA) authentication protocols have been used to avoid charging problems between a charger-device pair. Unfortunately, these security protocols are not suitable for IOT systems, where a charger supplies power to multiple devices.

Advantages

  • Secure wireless power transfer
  • Detuning functionality for IOT devices through resonant frequency modulation
  • Wirelessly charge multiple devices using one charger

 

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