A General Model of T-Compensation Networks in Inductive Power Transfer Systems

Compensation networks are commonly employed by inductive power transfer (IPT) systems to reduce VA ratings of the converters used. The majority of current systems utilise fully tuned compensation networks on both the primary and secondary such as the LCL-LCL. In response, this paper provides a detailed analysis of the under-explored area of detuned compensation networks. To this end, a general model of IPT compensation is presented and validated in simulation. The model is applied to several special cases of IPT compensation to demonstrate the former’s value in predicting the effects on system performance of both deliberate and non-deliberate detuning. Finally, a 7kW detuned IPT system is compared to a similar 7 kW LCL-LCL system. Simulation results show the detuned system can transfer the rated power with near-unity power factor and high efficiency despite a near two-fold change in coupling factor.