Review of Load-Independent Constant-Current and Constant-Voltage Topologies for Domino-Type Multiple-Load Inductive Power Relay System

The ability to concurrently power multiple loads has been a new feature for the inductive power transfer (IPT) system in more applications, such as the gate driver powering in the modular multilevel converter. As one of the applicable configurations, the domino-type IPT system cannot only transfer power over a longer distance but also achieves load-independent outputs. This article reviews the existing multiple-load IPT systems and aims to provide a methodology to systematically construct suitable domino-type IPT topologies with multiple load-independent constant-current (CC) or constant-voltage (CV) outputs. There are three innovative contributions. First, three kinds of resonant circuits are summarized to achieve the compensation network, including the series–series, T-type, and Π-type topologies. Second, nine CC and nine CV topologies are proposed, analyzed, and evaluated as candidates for various applications. The optimal CC and CV topologies are identified, and the integrated magnetic coupler designs are provided accordingly. Third, the power transfer capability is investigated, considering the parasitic resistances of passive components. The attenuation of load currents/voltages and the system efficiency relationship with load resistance, coupling coefficient
k
, quality factor
Q
, and load number
N
are analyzed, providing the guideline to design the load-independent domino system with high system efficiency. A single-input-four-output domino-type IPT system is implemented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed design methodology. Experimental results have shown consistency with the analysis results, and the efficiency can reach 89.79% when
k
= 0.193,
Q
= 320, and
N
= 4.