As of my last update in September 2021, power electronics for wireless charging of electric buses and urban transit networks were already advancing, and there might have been further developments since then. Here are some key advancements up until that point:
Higher Power Levels: Power electronics technologies have been improved to handle higher power levels efficiently. This means faster charging times and more powerful charging infrastructure to support larger electric buses and high-capacity urban transit networks.
Resonant Inductive Coupling: One of the primary wireless charging technologies used for electric buses is resonant inductive coupling. Advancements in this area have led to increased efficiency in power transfer over larger air gaps, making it more convenient for buses to align with charging pads without the need for precise positioning.
Dynamic Charging: Dynamic wireless charging systems have been developed for electric buses and trams, enabling continuous charging while the vehicles are in motion. This technology allows buses to charge at specific points along their route, extending their range and reducing the need for large batteries.
Bi-Directional Charging: Advancements in power electronics have enabled bidirectional charging capabilities. This means that electric buses and urban transit vehicles can not only charge from the grid but also feed energy back into it when they have excess power, contributing to grid stabilization and energy management.
Efficiency Improvements: Power electronics systems have been optimized to reduce energy losses during wireless charging. Efficiency improvements result in less wasted energy and better overall energy utilization, making the charging process more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Standardization Efforts: There have been ongoing efforts to establish international standards for wireless charging systems in public transport, including buses and urban transit networks. Standardization helps ensure interoperability between different systems and increases market adoption.
Integration with Infrastructure: Power electronics for wireless charging have been integrated more seamlessly into existing urban infrastructure, such as bus stops and depots. This integration allows for more efficient use of space and better urban planning for electric public transportation.
Smart Grid Integration: Advancements in power electronics have facilitated better integration of wireless charging infrastructure with smart grids. This integration enables demand-response mechanisms, load balancing, and optimized charging schedules based on grid conditions and energy availability.
Automated Charging Systems: Power electronics advancements have made it possible to develop automated charging systems for electric buses and urban transit vehicles. Automated systems can align charging pads with vehicles and manage the charging process without the need for human intervention, further improving efficiency and convenience.
Keep in mind that research and development in the field of power electronics for wireless charging are ongoing, and there may have been further advancements since my last update. It's essential to refer to the latest sources and research papers to get the most up-to-date information on this topic.