A Circuit Model-Based Analysis of Magnetically Coupled Resonant Loops in Wireless Power Transfer Systems

Abstract

Magnetically coupled resonant loops can be represented by a lumped element circuit model. Each parameter in the lumped element model can be expressed as a function of loop geometry and the separation between the loops; therefore, the geometry can be systematically changed, and the power transfer efficiency of the coupled loops can be predicted. This paper presents a simulation-based efficiency analysis for wireless power transfer systems utilizing magnetically coupled resonant loops. The behavior of power transfer efficiency is studied for various loop geometry parameters, and the simulation results are presented in detail. These results clearly show that there is a trade-off between peak efficiency and critical coupling distance, both of which depend on the loop size, frequency of operation, and source-load impedances. To verify the accuracy model, two identical circular loops are fabricated and measured, and the measurement results agree well with the model.