Optimization of Magnetic Core Structures for Enhanced Magnetic Coupling in Helical Coil Inductive Power Transmission

Abstract

Inductive power transfer (IPT) systems often encounter limitations in efficiency and transmission distance due to near-field magnetic coupling characteristics. Increasing the inductance can enhance the transmission distance, but it also raises the system’s Q factor, leading to several issues. This study aimed to optimize the magnetic core design of helical coils to enhance magnetic coupling in IPT systems while minimizing the increase in self-inductance. Through finite element analysis, various core placements were evaluated, leading to a proposed core design process that integrates inner and lower cores at optimal angles. The proposed design was compared with conventional cores, and its performance was validated in an IPT system. The results demonstrate that the proposed core design significantly enhances the coupling coefficient (k) and extends power transmission distance compared with conventional planar and U-shaped core structures without substantially increasing self-inductance (L). This design effectively balances the trade-off between increasing inductance and maintaining system stability, thereby improving transmission efficiency while minimizing frequency instability and voltage stress.