A Novel Comb-Shaped Coupler for Hybrid Inductive and Capacitive Wireless Power Transfer System

In this letter, we introduce a novel hybrid wireless power transfer (HWPT) coupler that efficiently integrates magnetic and electric field transmission channels within a single structure using a comb-shaped design. For the first time, this design places electric field coupling plates between two magnetic field coils, while ensuring unobstructed magnetic flux passage and minimizing eddy current losses. This approach significantly enhances overall efficiency and power transfer capability. First, the design methodology of the coupler is elaborated, and a comprehensive analysis of its characteristics is provided. In addition, an equivalent model of the HWPT system with double-LC compensation is established, and the system's output power is derived. An experimental prototype with coupler dimensions of 600 mm x 600 mm and a transmission distance of 150 mm was constructed. The system successfully achieved an output power of 2.2 kW with a dc-dc efficiency of 92.6%, verifying the effectiveness of the proposed structure in reducing losses caused by the integration of magnetic and electric fields.