Power Electronic Converters in Inductive Wireless Charging Applications for Electric Transportation

Wireless charging system (WCS) for electric vehicles (EVs) has the potential to revolutionize traditional plug-in charging methods. This technology employs different methods. Among these, resonant inductive power transfer (R-IPT) stands out in EV applications for its high efficiency and lower operating frequencies compared to others. The role of power electronic converters (PECs) in achieving high frequency and resonance operation is vital, with switches and compensators playing crucial roles in resonant converter design. This article emphasizes the significance of PECs, explores the factors influencing converters selection and their classifications, and provides an overview of various PECs at different stages of wireless power transfer (WPT) systems, along with their characteristics. Additionally, it delves into wide bandgap (WBG) devices and different semiconductor switches, discussing their roles in R-IPT systems, as well as their advantages and disadvantages. This article also outlines the characteristics, features, and limitations of various overview compensation topologies, serving as a valuable resource for researchers seeking to develop new topologies for wireless charging applications. A comprehensive discussion on future challenges, development trends, and prospects is provided.