Nonlinear effects in high-intensity focused ultrasound power transfer systems

TL;DR

This paper investigates how nonlinear wave propagation affects the efficiency and focal point of high-intensity focused ultrasound systems used for wireless power transfer, revealing that nonlinear effects reduce efficiency and shift the optimal energy focus.

Contribution

It provides experimental insights and analysis on nonlinear effects in ultrasonic power transfer, informing the design of more efficient focused ultrasound devices.

Findings

Nonlinear effects reduce energy transfer efficiency.

Maximum voltage output shifts away from the focal point with increased source strength.

Nonlinear wave propagation impacts the spatial resonance conditions.

Abstract

In the context of wireless acoustic power transfer, high intensity focused ultrasound technology aims at the reduction of spreading losses by concentrating the acoustic energy at a specific location. Experiments are performed to determine the impact of nonlinear wave propagation on the spatially resonant conditions in a focused ultrasonic power transfer system. An in-depth analysis is performed to explain the experimental observations. The results show that the efficiency of the energy transfer is reduced as nonlinear effects become more prominent. Furthermore, the position of the maximum voltage output position shifts away from the focal point and closer to the transducer as the source strength is increased. The results and analysis are relevant to the development of novel efficient ultrasonic power transfer devices when using focused sources.