WIRELESS POWER TRANSFER USING OPEN-WIRE TRANSMISSION LINE COUPLING

This dissertation presents and develops a novel method of wireless power transfer that relies on electromagnetic coupling from open-wire transmission lines instead of tra- ditional methods. Wireless power transfer techniques are being rapidly pursued in re- search currently due to the potential utility of powering devices over the air instead of with direct electrical connections. Uses for such techniques include an array of ap- plications from consumer electronics, to medical devices, to cars and UAVs. While con- ventional wireless power transfer techniques exist, it is shown here that open-wire trans- mission line methods present distinct advantages for certain applications. In particular, wireless power transfer using Goubau and twin-lead line architectures will be conceptual- ized and investigated in terms of their theory, design, and efficiency performance. Fur- ther, a circuit model theory will be developed in this work to provide a generalized for- mulation for open-wire-line wireless power transfer analysis. Additionally, receiver de- sign techniques will be outlined and geometries based on metamaterial principles will be pursued in order to achieve receiver miniaturization and access the applications this af- fords.