Single-stage 6.78 MHz power-amplifier design using high-voltage GaN power ICs for wireless charging applications

Abstract

Traditional power amplifiers for wireless power transfer require a low voltage dc power supply generated by a power adapter. This multi-stage power conversion solution reduces the overall efficiency. A single-stage “AC-RF” power amplifier architecture using a phase-modulated full-bridge topology and high voltage GaN Power ICs is proposed to directly generate 6.78 MHz wireless power from a rectified ac source. A 50W power amplifier is built and achieves 90% ac-to-coil efficiency, which reduces overall power loss by half, comparing to existing multi-stage solutions. The operating principle of a phase-shifted full bridge power amplifier is discussed, and analytical equations are provided for the passive filter network design. A coupled ZVS-tank scheme is also proposed to improve efficiency.