Small Footprint Inductive Power Transfer Based on Split-Transformer: Design and Experimental Validation

Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) allows the transmission of electricity from a power source to a receiving device without the need for physical cables or direct contact. For autonomous mobile robots, this allows to automate the charging process while avoiding exposed contacts and charging port wear. The present work details the design, numerical simulation and test of an inductively coupled WPT system for battery charging of autonomous mobile robots. In order to transfer power, the system exploits a Split Transformer topology based on commercially available E-shape ferrite cores.A 600W rated power prototype has been manufactured and experimentally characterized. The experimental results obtained are in agreement with the simulation ones.