Underwater wireless power transfer for maritime applications

Abstract

This paper presents the development and implementation of an inductive, underwater wireless power transfer system for use with unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). Specifically, the design and fabrication of power transfer coils and power electronics is provided for a system capable of providing 75W to a load. At small standoff distances (<;2 inches) and frequencies below 300kHz, it is shown that there is little difference between inductive power transfer in air and seawater. Measured data shows that at power levels of 75W, the system efficiency from the transmitter to a rectifier and resistive load is above 85%.