Enhanced Wireless Power Transfer via Multisource Thermophotovoltaic Systems

The objective of this research project is to design, fabricate and test a prototype wireless power transmission system that uses a thermophotovoltaic (TPV) system to receive the power beam. By using a TPV system as the receiver (instead of a photovoltaic cell) the electromagnetic radiation can have almost any wavelength. This opens a broad range of radiation that can be used to enhance power beaming applications. For example, by using radiation with wavelengths in the atmospheric window (the range of wavelengths from about 8-10 um wherein radiation is highly transmissive in the atmosphere) power can be beamed to a TPV receiver with minimal losses. Furthermore, the performance of TPV systems can be increased by enabling them to be powered by multiple sources. The goal of this research is to design and test TPV systems that are powered by two sources, wherein one of the sources is an object at high temperature and the other source is beamed power. The industrial partner will play an active role in the design and development of multisource TPV systems capable of functioning as receivers in wireless power transfer applications and will have a competitive advantage to market TPV receivers on a global scale.

Faculty Supervisor:

Paul O'Brien

Student:

Partner:

Columbiad Launch Services

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

York University

Program: