Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

Wireless power transmission (WPT) is an emerging area of power electronics that seeks to process and transmit electrical energy from a power source to an electrical load, such as the charging of cell phones, tablets, wearable devices, implantable medical devices, electric vehicles and aerial autonomous vehicles, without the use of connecting cables. WPT can be achieved through inductive coupling or capacitive coupling between the transmitter side and receiver side. The small and simple structure at the receiver end, make wireless transmission by capacitive coupling more attractive for power delivery in moving systems, such as drones. However, there are technical challenges that need to be overcome in order to achieve greater flexibility, versatility, and range of applicability. For example, there is a need to develop technical solutions to address the challenge of misalignment between the capacitive coupling resonators for moving systems applications. This proposal will develop innovative solutions in switching networks, converter structures, power control strategies, and sensing and control schemes that will address the technical challenges and lead to improved performance in transmission efficiency and versatility. Technically, the proposed research is timely and important. First, it is at the leading edge of research in the area of resonant capacitive coupling WPT technology and it addresses important issues that currently limit the application of the technology. Second, it provides the possibility of developing innovative solutions that will make significant contributions in advancing research in the area. Third, it supports the training of highly qualified personnel and the development of the next generation of innovators and leaders in this sector. Fourth, the research will provide opportunities to establish stronger relationship with Solace Power Inc., a local Rs talent, maintaining Canada's leadership in knowledge in emerging technology, growing innovative firms and improving access to global markets.