ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the principle of wireless power transfer using strongly coupled magnetic resonance, the relay effect for flexible and distant power transmission, and the extension of the relay effect to a network of resonators. It discusses the theoretical treatments and experimental studies that this scheme succeeds beyond the limit of mid-range, allowing much longer and more flexible power transmission without sacrificing efficiency. Additionally, in the latter part of this chapter, an extended concept to a network architecture involving a number of resonators is discussed, and a spectral method to assist in the design and evaluation of wireless power transfer network is described. Theoretical analysis is performed based on a set of coupled-mode equations. Flexible film resonators are designed and prototyped. Experiments are carried out to confirm the theoretical results and demonstrate the effectiveness of the new mechanisms of wireless power transfer.
