Inverter using loosely coupled inductors for wireless power transfer

This paper introduces the integration of Class DE inverter with loosely coupled inductors for near-field wireless power transfer (WPT) applications. The benefits of using Class DE inverter in the inverter stage of the WPT system are the low transistor voltage stress and zero-voltage switching (ZVS) of the transistors. The step-by-step integration of circuits using Class DE inverter, tuned loosely coupled planar inductors, and the rectifier are given. The planar inductors are embedded into furniture-like wooden structures to simulate real-world applications. A detailed procedure to design a Class DE inverter-based WPT system using loosely coupled inductors is given. The design is illustrated with an example for low power application. Simulation and experimental results are given for the Class DE inverter operating at 300 kHz.