Power transfer system and method

A method of transferring power comprising:

• transmitting power from a power source coupled to a primary loop onto a secondary receiving coil while focusing a magnetic field from the primary loop onto the secondary receiving coil,
• wherein the secondary receiving coil is disposed on a mobile asset and coupled to one or more traction motors for propelling the mobile asset, and converting the transmitted power into mechanical energy to propel the mobile asset;
• and
• converting mechanical energy to electrical energy and storing that electrical energy, transmitting that electrical energy, or both transmitting a portion of the electrical energy and storing a portion of the electrical energy wherein the stored energy can be transferred back to the power source.

A system, comprising:

• a primary loop that is disposed on a mobile asset, that is coupled to a power source secured to the mobile asset, and that is capable of transmitting power from the power source;
• a secondary receiving coil that is disposed at a distance from the primary loop, and that is operable to receive power that the primary loop transmits;
• and
• a field-focusing element comprising a plurality of resonators arranged in an array that can focus a magnetic field from the primary loop onto the secondary receiving coil, wherein the field-focusing element has a non-linear current distribution.

A locomotive configured to receive power wirelessly comprising:

• a wireless power transfer system comprising a secondary coil disposed on the locomotive to receive high frequency power from a primary loop disposed adjacent to a stationary track;
• and
• a field focusing element comprising a plurality of resonators arranged in an array, interposed between the primary loop and the secondary coil and configured to focus a magnetic field from the primary loop to the secondary coil, the field focusing element having a non-linear current distribution;
• a converter coupled to the secondary coil and configured to convert high frequency power to low frequency power suitable for driving one or more traction motors coupled to the locomotive and configured as a prime mover;
• and
• a storage module configured for storing and supplying power back to the power source.