Non-contact magnetic coupled power and data transferring system for an electric vehicle

We have developed a system which transmits electric power and communication data simultaneously in a non- contact method using a magnetic coupling coil. Already, we are developing the fundamental technology of a non- contact charging system, and this is applied in electric shavers, electric toothbrushes, etc. Moreover, basic experiments are being conducted for applying this non- contact charging system to electric equipments such as an electric vehicle (EV), which is a zero emission vehicle and environmentally excellent and will be the transportation means of the next generation. The technology can also be applied in other electronic equipment, etc. However, since the power supply route for these individual devices is independent, the supply system is complicated. EV also has to perform the transmission of electric power and the transmission of information (data), such as the amount of the charge, in a separate system, and thus is quite complicated. In this study, by performing simultaneously the transmission of electric power and information (data) using magnetic coupling technology in which it does not contact, the basic experiment aimed at attaining and making uni. cation of a system simple was conducted, and the following good results were obtained: (1) Electric power required for load can be transmitted easily by non- contact. (2) A signal can easily be transmitted bidirectionally by non-contact. (3) This system is reliable, and is widely applicable. (C) 2006 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.