Optimal design of the compensation networks of an inductive wireless power transfer system

Purpose This paper aims to present an approach to the design of the compensation networks (CNs) based on a genetic optimization algorithm. The algorithm is applied to CNs with T-topology and considers the effects of the parasitic series resistances of their inductive components. The effectiveness of the algorithm is verified using Bode diagrams and simulation results. Design/methodology/approach The paper at first describes the problem and the approach followed to reach a set of optimal solutions, then explains the optimization algorithm, reports the obtained solutions and selects the optimal CNs. Finally, the actual performance of the wireless power transfer system (WPTS) when the selected CNs are used are checked. Findings This approach gave interesting results and made available a number of different sizing solutions of complex networks in a very short time. Most of the obtained solutions outperform the widely used series-series compensation. An accurate post processing of the obtained result is mandatory to discriminate the solutions that could be implemented from those that in a real system would originate uncontrolled high frequency current oscillation. Originality/value This paper offers a rather new approach to solve the problem of sizing the CNs of a dynamic WPTS. This approach makes available a large number of optimal solutions to the problem in a short time, without solving complex system of equations.