Patent Publication Number: US-2019173315-A1

Title: Power coupling device

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a national phase entry under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of International Patent Application PCT/US2016/045250, filed Aug. 3, 2016, designating the United States of America and published in English as International Patent Publication WO 2018/026359 A1 on Feb. 8, 2018, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The present application relates to a power coupling device configured to transfer power between a rotating unit (e.g., a rotor) and a stationary unit (e.g., a stator) and/or between two rotating units. It finds particular application in the context of computed tomography (CT) scanners, such as might be used in medical, security, and/or industrial applications. For example, the power coupling device may be configured to transfer power from a stationary unit to a rotating unit that houses a radiation source and a detector array. However, the features described herein are not intended to be limited to CT applications and/or other imaging applications. 
     Systems that comprise electronic components within a rotating unit often require power to be provided to the rotating unit via a power coupling apparatus. For example, in CT scanners, power is supplied to electronics on a rotating unit of the CT scanner using a power coupling device. Traditionally, these power coupling devices have been slip-ring/brush assemblies. Slip-rings transfer power between a stationary unit and a rotating unit (e.g., or between two rotating units), through the contact of two materials (e.g., via a sliding contact). Slip-ring assemblies typically comprise two or more continuous conducting rings and one or more brushes on respective rings for delivering current to and from the rings. 
     While the use of brushes and slip-rings has proven effective for supplying power to electronics comprised in a rotating unit, conventional brush and slip-ring mechanisms tend to be dirty, unreliable, and/or noisy. For example, the brushes can break down to create metallic dust overtime, which may cause problems with ultra-sensitive electronics. Moreover, in some applications, such as where sensitive diagnostic/imaging procedures are being performed (e.g., such as in CT imaging), the electric noise inherent in the power being transferred and/or generated by the brushes can cause interference with the procedures. Other drawbacks of slip-ring assemblies include the cost and complexity of manufacture due to the special materials and/or the mechanical precision that is generally required. 
     More recently, contactless assemblies have been proposed for transferring power between a stationary unit and a rotating unit in the context of radiation imaging. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 8,350,655, assigned to Analogic Corporation and incorporated herein by reference, describes one such contactless power coupling device for CT scanners and other radiation imaging devices. While these contactless power devices have solved many of the aforementioned drawbacks of slip-ring assemblies, these contactless power coupling devices are often costly to manufacture due to, among other things, their size requirements. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     Aspects of the present application address the above matters, and others. According to one aspect, a power coupling device is configured to transfer power between a stator and a rotor. The power coupling device comprises a support structure defining an opening. The power coupling device comprises a core element comprising a ferrite material. The core element is configured to be received within the opening of the support structure. The core element defines a core channel. The power coupling device comprises an inductive element configured to be received within the core channel. The power coupling device comprises an attachment structure removably attached to the support structure. The attachment structure is configured to attach the core element to the support structure. The core element is disposed between the support structure and the attachment structure. 
     According to another aspect, a segmented power coupling device comprising a plurality of segments configured to transfer power between a stator and a rotor. The segmented power coupling device comprises a segment comprising a support structure defining an opening. The segment comprises a core element comprising a ferrite material and defining a first side and a second side. The core element is configured to be received within the opening of the support structure. The core element defines a core channel defined along the first side. The segment comprises an inductive element configured to be at least partially received within the core channel and wound around the core element from the first side to the second side. 
     According to yet another aspect, a power coupling device is configured to transfer power between a stator and a rotor. The power coupling device comprises a support structure defining a support member and an opening. The power coupling device comprises a core element comprising a ferrite material and configured to be received within the opening of the support structure. The core element defines a core channel and the support member of the support structure configured to be received within the core channel. The power coupling device comprises an inductive element configured to be received within the core channel. The support member of the support structure is disposed between the inductive element and the core element along a back face of the core element. 
     According to yet another aspect, a segmented power coupling device comprises a plurality of segments configured to transfer power between a stator and a rotor. The segmented power coupling device comprises a first subset of the plurality of segments arranged to define a ring. The first subset of the plurality of segments comprises a plurality of first inductive elements defining a first winding of a transformer. The segmented power coupling device comprises a second subset of the plurality of segments arranged to define a partial ring. The second subset of the plurality of segments comprises one or more second inductive elements arranged to define one or more additional windings of the transformer. 
     Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate still other aspects of the present application upon reading and understanding the appended description. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The application is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like references indicate similar elements and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example environment for using a power coupling device such as described herein; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an example power coupling device; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an example segment for a power coupling device; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an example core element for a segment; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates an example segment for a power coupling device; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a cross-section of a segment for a power coupling device illustrating a core element; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a cross-section of a segment for a power coupling device illustrating a location between neighboring core elements; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a second example segment for a power coupling device; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a cross-section of a segment for a power coupling device illustrating a core element; and 
         FIG. 10  illustrates example segments arranged to form a first winding and a second winding of a transformer. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are generally used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. It may be evident, however, that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are illustrated in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the claimed subject matter. 
     The present disclosure relates to a power coupling device that is configured to transfer power between a stator and a rotor. The power coupling device comprises a support structure that defines an opening. A core element, comprising a ferrite material, can be received within the opening of the support structure. The core element can define a core channel. An inductive element (e.g., a winding) can be received within the core channel. The inductive element may comprise electrically conductive wires, for example. An attachment structure may be removably attached to the support structure. 
     Accordingly, as described herein, the attachment structure can attach the core element to the support structure, such that the core element is maintained in a substantially fixed position with respect to the support structure. In this fixed position, the core element may be disposed between the support structure and the attachment structure. In an example, the attachment structure can be detached from the support structure, such that the core element can be separated and detached from the support structure. 
     It may be appreciated that in accordance with the aforementioned design, the inductive element and the core element may be secured or fixed in place by the attachment structure. Accordingly, little to no epoxy may be used in the manufacturing of the power coupling device. Moreover, as will be described in more detail below, the support structure may be manufactured using conductive or non-conductive materials. By manufacturing the support structure out of low cost materials, such as a polymer-based material, the cost of manufacturing (e.g., material costs, labor costs, etc.) may be reduced. 
     In some embodiments, the power coupling device may be divided into a plurality of segments that can transfer power between a stator and a rotor. Respective segments may comprise a support structure and a core element. Division of the power coupling device into segments may further reduce the cost of manufacturing due to the reduced size of the manufactured piece. In addition, one or more segments can be selectively removed and/or attached so as to allow for service to be provided to the segments. 
     Although the singular may be used herein for convenience in introducing terms such as “body,” “object,” “stator,” “rotor,” “airgap,” “shield,” “core,” “winding,” “center,” “axis,” etc., a similar situation will of course exist, and the present disclosure and/or claimed subject matter should be understood to, in general, be applicable where plurality or pluralities of one or more of such features is or are present. Conversely, where plurality or pluralities are discussed, this is not to necessarily exclude the singular. Also, with regard to usage of prepositions “between” and “among,” except where otherwise clear from context, use of “between” is not intended to necessarily imply limitation to two objects, and use of “among” is not intended to necessarily imply limitation to more than two objects. 
     Note that the term “noncontact” is used herein to refer to the ability to transfer power in inductive fashion between or among bodies configured for relative rotation, and should not be understood to necessarily preclude possible contact between or among such bodies for other purposes, including, for example, electrostatic discharge, exchange or transmission of data, mechanical drive or support, braking and safety mechanisms, low-voltage power transfer, and/or high-voltage power transfer, etc. such as might be desired in addition to power transferred inductively by the types of power coupling devices disclosed herein. 
     It should also be noted that in the present specification, except where otherwise clear from context, the terms “gap” and “airgap” are used more or less interchangeably; although the term “airgap” may be used herein, as this should be understood to be mere deference to convention, it should be understood that such gaps are not limited to air, it being possible for vacuum, oil, and/or other fluid and/or gas, and/or sliding and/or roller bearings or other such contrivances permitting relative movement to completely or partially fill such spaces. 
       FIG. 1  is an illustration of an example environment  100  in which a power coupling device as described herein may be useful. More particularly,  FIG. 1  illustrates an example computed tomography (CT) apparatus that can be configured to acquire volumetric information regarding an object  102  under examination and generate two-dimensional and/or three-dimensional images therefrom. 
     It will be appreciated that while a CT apparatus is described herein, the instant application is not intended to be so limited. That is, to the extent practical, the instant application, including the scope of the claimed subject matter, is intended to be applicable to other apparatuses that comprise a rotor (e.g., a rotating unit) and a stator (e.g., a stationary unit) and/or two rotating units over which power is transferred. Moreover, the example environment  100  merely illustrates an example schematic and is not intended to be interpreted in a limiting manner, such as necessarily specifying the location, inclusion, and/or relative arrangement of the components described herein. For example, a data acquisition component  122  as illustrated in  FIG. 1  may be part of a rotor  104  portion of the examination apparatus, or more particularly may be part of a detector array  106 , for example. 
     In the example environment  100 , an object examination apparatus  108  is configured to examine one or more objects  102  (e.g., a series of suitcases at an airport, a human patient, etc.). The object examination apparatus  108  can comprise a rotor  104  and a stator  110 . During an examination of the object(s)  102 , the object(s)  102  can be placed on a support article  112 , such as a bed or conveyor belt, and selectively positioned in an examination region  114  (e.g., a hollow bore in the rotor  104 ) by the support article  112 . While the object(s)  102  are in the examination region  114 , the rotor  104  can be rotated about the object(s)  102  by a rotator  116  (e.g., motor, drive shaft, chain, etc.). 
     The rotor  104  may surround a portion of the examination region  114  and may comprise one or more radiation sources  118  (e.g., an ionizing x-ray source, gamma source, etc.) and a detector array  106  that is mounted on a substantially diametrically opposite side of the rotor  104  relative to the radiation source(s)  118 . 
     During an examination of the object(s)  102 , the radiation source(s)  118  emits fan, cone, wedge, and/or other shaped radiation  120  configurations into the examination region  114  of the object examination apparatus  108 . It will be appreciated to those skilled in the art that such radiation may be emitted substantially continuously and/or may be emitted intermittently (e.g., a short pulse of radiation  120  is emitted followed by a resting period during which the radiation source(s)  118  is not activated). 
     As the emitted radiation  120  traverses the object(s)  102 , the radiation  120  may be attenuated differently by different aspects of the object(s)  102 . Because different aspects attenuate different percentages of the radiation  120 , an image(s) may be generated based upon the attenuation, or variations in the number of radiation photons that are detected by the detector array  106 . For example, more dense aspects of the object(s)  102 , such as a bone or metal plate, may attenuate more of the radiation  120  (e.g., causing fewer photons to strike the detector array  106 ) than less dense aspects, such as skin or clothing. 
     The detector array  106  is configured to directly convert (e.g., using amorphous selenium and/or other direct conversion materials) and/or indirectly convert (e.g., using photodetectors and/or other indirect conversion materials) detected radiation into signals that can be transmitted from the detector array  106  to a data acquisition component  122  configured to compile signals that were transmitted within a predetermined time interval, or measurement interval, using techniques known to those skilled in the art (e.g., binning, integration, etc.). It will be appreciated that such a measurement interval may be referred to by those skilled in the art as a “view” and generally reflects signals generated from radiation  120  that was emitted while the radiation source  118  was at a particular angular range relative to the object  102 . Based upon the compiled signals, the data acquisition component  122  can generate projection data indicative of the compiled signals, for example. 
     The example environment  100  further comprises an image reconstructor  124  configured to receive the projection data that is output by the data acquisition component  122 . The image reconstructor  124  is configured to generate image data from the projection data using a suitable analytical, iterative, and/or other reconstruction technique (e.g., backprojection reconstruction, tomosynthesis reconstruction, iterative reconstruction, etc.). In this way, the data is converted from projection space to image space, a domain that may be more understandable by a user  130  viewing the image(s), for example. 
     The example environment  100  also includes a terminal  126 , or workstation (e.g., a computer), configured to receive the image(s), which can be displayed on a monitor  128  to the user  130  (e.g., security personnel, medical personnel, etc.). In this way, a user  130  can inspect the image(s) to identify areas of interest within the object(s)  102 . The terminal  126  can also be configured to receive user input which can direct operations of the object examination apparatus  108  (e.g., a speed to rotate, a speed of a conveyor belt, etc.). 
     In the example environment  100 , a controller  132  is operably coupled to the terminal  126 . In one example, the controller  132  is configured to receive user input from the terminal  126  and generate instructions for the object examination apparatus  108  indicative of operations to be performed. For example, the user  130  may want to reexamine the object(s)  102 , and the controller  132  may issue a command instructing the support article  112  to reverse direction (e.g., bringing the object(s)  102  back into an examination region  114  of the object examination apparatus  102 ). 
       FIG. 2  illustrates a high-level, cross-sectional view (e.g., taken along line  2 - 2  in  FIG. 1 ) of an example power coupling device  200  comprising the rotor  104  and the stator  110 . As illustrated herein, the rotor  104  and the stator  110  are respectively half circles separated from one another via a planar airgap  206 , and as will be described below, power is configured to be transferred between the stator  110  to the rotor  104 . In this way, in an example, power may be supplied to electrical components comprised within the rotor or the stator, such as a radiation source (e.g.,  118  in  FIG. 1 ) and/or detector array (e.g.,  106  in  FIG. 1 ) without using slip-rings and/or brushes, for example. 
     In an example, the rotor  104  and the stator  110  respectively may comprise three coaxial half-shells or layers. For example, the rotor  104  comprises, being in order from the airgap  206 , a winding  208 , a core  210 , and a shell  212 , and the stator  110  comprises, being in order from the airgap  206 , a winding  214 , a core  216 , and a support structure  218 . It will be appreciated that between the respective layers, there may be gaps of indeterminate thickness (e.g., intended to include the possibility of zero gap). 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , the rotor  104  and/or the stator  110  may be segmented into a plurality of interlocking segments, which may be assembled to form the ring-shape shown in  FIG. 2 .  FIG. 3  illustrates an enlarged, exploded view of an example segment  300 . While only one segment  300  is illustrated in  FIG. 3 , it will be appreciated that rotor  104  and/or the stator  110  may comprise a plurality of similarly configured segments. 
     The segment  300  comprises a support structure  302  (e.g., shell  212  in  FIG. 2 ). The support structure  302  can extend non-linearly (e.g., along a non-linear axis) between a first support end  304  and a second support end  306 . The support structure  302  may comprise any number of materials. In a possible example, the support structure  302  may comprise metal or non-metal materials and may be electrically conductive or non-conductive. For example, the support structure  302  may comprise a plastic material, such as a plastic material that is formed via an injection molding process. 
     The support structure  302  can define one or more openings  312  extending between a first support side  308  and a second support side  310 . In an example, the openings  312  of the support structure  302  can be arranged as a first row of openings  314  and a second row of openings  316 . The first row of openings  314  can be spaced apart from each other so as to be arranged to extend non-linearly between the first support end  304  and the second support end  306 . In such an example, the first row of openings  314  can define openings through the support structure  302  between the first support side  308  and the second support side  310 . The openings  312  of the first row of openings  314  are illustrated as having a substantially rectangular shape, though any number of shapes (e.g., quadrilateral, square, rounded, oval, etc.) are envisioned. In an example, as is illustrated in  FIG. 10 , the first row of openings  314  can be spaced apart from each other so as to be arranged to extend circularly about an axis. 
     The second row of openings  316  can be spaced apart from each other so as to be arranged to extend non-linearly between the first support end  304  and the second support end  306 . For example, in some embodiments, the second row of openings  316  and the first row of openings  314  each form an arc-shaped structure, where the arc-shaped structure formed by the second row of openings  316  and the arc-shaped structure formed by the first row of openings  314  are substantially coaxial. Moreover, while the openings  312  of the second row of openings  316  are illustrated as having a substantially rectangular shape, any number of shapes (e.g., quadrilateral, square, rounded, oval, etc.) are envisioned. In an example, as is illustrated in  FIG. 10 , the second row of openings  316  can be spaced apart from each other so as to be arranged to extend circularly about an axis. 
     In an example, the first row of openings  314  can extend substantially parallel to the second row of openings  316 . For example, the first row of openings  314  can be positioned in closer proximity to an outer side  320  of the support structure  302 . The second row of openings  316  can be positioned in closer proximity to an inner side  322  of the support structure  302 . As such, the first row of openings  314  may be spaced apart from the second row of openings  316 , with the space having a substantially constant distance between the first support end  304  and the second support end  306 . 
     In the illustrated example, the support structure  302  can extend partially about a central axis, such that the support structure  302  comprises a portion of a ring or circle. As such, in an example, the outer side  320  may define an outer radial side of the support structure  302 . In an example, the inner side  322  may define an inner radial side of the support structure  302 . In this way, the inner side  322  may be located in closer proximity to the central axis than the outer side  320 . Likewise, in an example, the second row of openings  316  may be located in closer proximity to the central axis than the first row of openings  314 . 
     The support structure  302  may comprise an outer support wall  326  that extends along the outer side  320 . The support structure  302  may comprise an inner support wall  328  that extends along the inner side  322 . The outer support wall  326  can extend substantially parallel to the inner support wall  328 . In an example, the outer support wall  326  and the inner support wall  328  extend non-linearly between the first support end  304  and the second support end  306 . The outer support wall  326  can be located at an outer radial side of the first row of openings  314 . The inner support wall  328  can be located at an inner radial side of the second row of openings  316 . 
     The support structure  302  comprises a support member  330  that extends non-linearly between the first support end  304  and the second support end  306 . The support member  330  can extend substantially parallel to the outer support wall  326  and/or to the inner support wall  328 . In an example, the support member  330  may be disposed between the outer support wall  326  and the inner support wall  328 . For example, the outer support wall  326  may be located on a first side of and spaced apart from the support member  330 . The inner support wall  328  may be located on a second side of and spaced apart from the support member  330 . In an example, the support member  330  may be spaced a substantially equal distance from the outer support wall  326  and the inner support wall  328 . In an example, the first row of openings  314  may be defined between the support member  330  and the outer support wall  326 . In an example, the second row of openings  316  may be defined between the support member  330  and the inner support wall  328 . 
     The support structure  302  comprises one or more intermediate support walls  332 . In an example, the intermediate support walls  332  can extend between the outer support wall  326  and the inner support wall  328 . In such an example, the intermediate support walls  332  may extend substantially perpendicular to the outer support wall  326 , the inner support wall  328 , and/or the support member  330 . The intermediate support walls  332  can extend substantially linearly between the inner support wall  328  at one end, and the outer support wall  326  at an opposing end. 
     The outer support wall  326 , the inner support wall  328 , the support member  330 , and the intermediate support walls  332  can define at least some of the openings  312 . For example, the outer support wall  326 , the support member  330 , and the intermediate support walls  332  can define the first row of openings  314 . The inner support wall  328 , the support member  330 , and the intermediate support walls  332  can define the second row of openings  316 . 
     In an example, the support structure  302  can be removably or non-removably attached to an adjacent support structure of an adjacent segment. For example, the support structure  302  may comprise a first attachment portion  336  and a second attachment portion  338 . The first attachment portion  336  comprises an outer attachment extension  340  and an inner attachment extension  342 . The outer attachment extension  340  projects from an end of the outer support wall  326  while the inner attachment extension  342  projects from an end of the inner support wall  328 . In an example, the outer attachment extension  340  extends substantially parallel to the inner attachment extension  342 . The outer attachment extension  340  and the inner attachment extension  342  may be radially spaced apart to define a gap, a space, an opening, etc. therebetween. In an example, the outer attachment extension  340  and the inner attachment extension  342  may define openings through which a fastener is configured to be received. 
     The second attachment portion  338  may comprise an outer attachment channel  344  and an inner attachment channel  346 . The outer attachment channel  344  may be defined at an end of the outer support wall  326  opposite the outer attachment extension  340 . The inner attachment channel  346  may be defined at an end of the inner support wall  328  opposite the inner attachment extension  342 . The outer attachment channel  344  and the inner attachment channel  346  define a recess, an opening, etc. formed within the outer support wall  326  and the inner support wall  328 . In an example, a length of the outer attachment channel  344  may be substantially similar to a length of the outer attachment extension  340 . In an example, a length of the inner attachment channel  346  may be substantially similar to a length of the inner attachment extension  342 . In some examples, an opening can be defined in the outer support wall  326  and the inner support wall  328  adjacent to the outer attachment channel  344  and the inner attachment channel  346  so as to receive a fastener, or the like. 
     In an example, the outer attachment extension  340  is configured to be received within an outer attachment channel of an adjacent support structure. Likewise, the inner attachment extension  342  is configured to be received within an inner attachment channel of the adjacent support structure. In such an example, the outer attachment extension  340  and the inner attachment extension  342  can receive fasteners through the openings for attaching the support structure  302  to the adjacent support structure. 
     The segment  300  comprises a core element  350 . It will be appreciated that  FIG. 3  illustrates a plurality of the core elements attached to the support structure  302 . One core element  350  is not attached to and spaced apart from the support structure  302  for illustrative purposes. In operation, however, the core element  350  may be attached to the support structure  302 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the core element  350  may comprise any number of materials, such as a ferrite material. The core element  350  may be configured to be received within one or more of the openings  312  of the support structure  302 . In an example, the core element  350  defines a first side  352  and a second side  354 . The first side  352  of the core element  350  may face the support structure  302  while the second side  354  of the core element  350  may face away from the support structure  302 . 
     The core element  350  can define a core channel  356  along the first side  352 . In an example, the core channel  356  can extend along a first axis  358  between a first end  360  and a second end  362  of the core element  350 . The core channel  356  defines an opening, a groove, a furrow, or the like formed along the first side  352  of the core element  350 . 
     In an example, the core channel  356  can have a non-constant cross-sectional size from the first side  352  towards the second side  354  as measured along a second axis  364  that is substantially perpendicular to the first axis  358 . For example, the core channel  356  can have a first channel portion  366  that has a first channel width  368  measured along the second axis  364 . In such an example, the first channel width  368  may be large enough such that the first channel portion  366  can receive the support member  330 . 
     The core channel  356  can have a second channel portion  370  that has a second channel width  372  measured along the second axis  364 . In an example, the first channel width  368  may be different than the second channel width  372 . For example, the first channel width  368  may be less than the second channel width  372 . In this way, the cross-sectional size of the core channel  356  can decrease from the first side  352  towards the second side  354 . Indeed, the second channel portion  370  has a larger cross-sectional size (e.g., the second channel width  372 ) than a cross-sectional size of the first channel portion  366  (e.g., the first channel width  368 ). 
     The core channel  356  can be at least partially defined by a back face  376  and an intermediate face  378 . The intermediate face  378  can extend substantially parallel to the back face  376 . In an example, the intermediate face  378  can define an intermediate plane  380 . The first side  352  of the core element  350  can be defined by a front face  382  that defines a plane  384 . In an example, the front face  382  extends substantially parallel to the intermediate face  378  and/or the back face  376 . 
     The back face  376  of the core element  350  may extend substantially parallel to the plane  384 , and may be spaced a first distance  386  from the plane  384 . The intermediate face  378  may be spaced a second distance  388  from the plane  384 . In the illustrated example, the first distance  386  may be different than the second distance  388 . For example, the first distance  386  may be greater than the second distance  388 . As such, the back face  376  may be located a greater distance from the front face  382  than the intermediate face  378 . 
     In an example, the back face  376  may be bounded on opposing sides (e.g., upper side and lower side) by back walls  390 . The back walls  390 , which extend between the back face  376  and the intermediate face  378 , may be substantially parallel to each other. The back walls  390  may be separated by the first channel width  368 . In an example, the back walls  390  may be substantially perpendicular to the back face  376  and/or to the intermediate face  378 . 
     The intermediate face  378  may be bounded on opposing sides (e.g., upper side and lower sides) by intermediate walls  392 . The intermediate walls  392 , which extend between the intermediate face  378  and the front face  382 , may be substantially parallel to each other. The intermediate walls  392  may be separated by the second channel width  372 . In an example, the intermediate walls  392  may be substantially perpendicular to the back face  376  and/or to the intermediate face  378  and/or to the front face  382 . 
     The core element  350  can therefore define a first extension portion  393  and a second extension portion  394 . In an example, the first extension portion  393  and the second extension portion  394  can have a substantially matching length between the first side  352  and the second side  354 . In an example, this length may be greater than a length of the core element  350  (e.g., between the first side  352  and the second side  354 ) as measured at a central location between the first extension portion  393  and the second extension portion  394 . In the illustrated example, the core element  350  can be substantially U-shaped, though, other possible shapes are envisioned. 
     With continuing reference to  FIG. 3 , the segment  300  comprises an attachment structure  396 . The attachment structure  396  can be removably attached to the support structure  302 . In an example, the attachment structure  396  is configured to attach the core element  350  to the support structure  302 . For example, the attachment structure  396  can be positioned to face the second side  354  of the core element  350 . The attachment structure  396  can be moved into contact with the support structure  302  and the second side  354  of the core element  350 . 
     The attachment structure  396  comprises one or more attachment portions  398  that facilitate attachment of the attachment structure  396  to the support structure  302 . In a possible example, the attachment portions  398  comprise openings into which fasteners can be received. The fasteners can pass through the attachment portions  398  and into openings in the second support side  310  of the support structure  302 , so as to attach the attachment structure  396  to the support structure  302 . In other examples, the attachment portions  398  may comprise locking structures such as locking clips, locking tabs, or the like that can removably engage and lock with the support structure  302 . In the aforementioned examples, the attachment portions  398  can allow for removable attachment of the attachment structure  396  to the support structure  302 . 
     The core element  350  can be sandwiched between the attachment structure  396  and the support member  330  of the support structure  302 . In this way, the attachment structure  396  can be attached to the support structure  302 , such as with the attachment portions  398 . As such, the core element  350  can be held in place and in a substantially fixed position with respect to the support structure  302  when the attachment structure  396  is attached to the support structure  302 . In an example, the attachment structure  396  can be selectively detached from the support structure  302 , thus allowing for detachment and removal of the core element  350  from the support structure  302 . 
     The segment  300  comprises one or more inductive elements  3000 . The inductive elements  3000  are comprised of coils comprising electrically conductive wires (e.g., copper wire) or the like. In this way, electric current can pass through the inductive elements  3000 . In an example, the inductive elements  3000  may face the first side  352  of the core element  350 . The inductive elements  3000  are configured to be received within the core channel  356  of the core element  350 . For example, the inductive elements  3000  may be received within the second channel portion  370  of the core channel  356 . As such, the inductive elements  3000  can border and/or be positioned adjacent to the support member  330  of the support structure  302 . In this way, the support member  330  can be received within the first channel portion  366  of the core channel  356  while the inductive elements  3000  may be received within the second channel portion  370 . 
     The segment  300  comprises a front attachment structure  3002  that may be removably attached to the support structure  302  diametrically opposed to the attachment structure  396 . The front attachment structure  3002  comprises an attachment body  3004  that extends between a first end  3006  and a second end  3008 . The front attachment structure  3002  can have a length that is substantially similar to the length of the support structure  302 . In some examples, the front attachment structure  3002  can extend non-linearly between the first end  3006  and the second end  3008 . As such, the front attachment structure  3002  can extend along an arc that substantially matches an arc along which the support structure  302  extends. 
     The attachment body  3004  comprises a central attachment portion  3010 . The central attachment portion  3010  extends non-linearly between the first end  3006  and the second end  3008  along the arc. In an example, when the front attachment structure  3002  is attached to the support structure  302 , the central attachment portion  3010  can be positioned adjacent to the inductive elements  3000 . The central attachment portion  3010  can extend substantially parallel to the support member  330 , with the inductive elements  3000  positioned between the support member  330  on one side and the central attachment portion  3010  on an opposing side. In some examples, the central attachment portion  3010  can be received within the second channel portion  370  of the core channel  356 . 
     The attachment body  3004  comprises one or more outer attachment portions  3012 . The outer attachment portions  3012  project and/or extend from the central attachment portion  3010 . In an example, the outer attachment portions  3012  may be located on an outer side  3014  of the central attachment portion  3010 . The outer attachment portions  3012  may be spaced apart to define outer spaces  3016  between neighboring outer attachment portions  3012 . In an example, the outer attachment portions  3012  can extend substantially parallel to the intermediate support walls  332  of the support structure  302 . In this example, a size of the outer spaces  3016  can substantially match a size of the first row of openings  314 . As such, the outer spaces  3016  can be aligned with the first row of openings  314  while the outer attachment portions  3012  can be aligned with the intermediate support walls  332 . 
     The attachment body  3004  comprises one or more inner attachment portions  3018 . The inner attachment portions  3018  project and/or extend from the central attachment portion  3010 . In an example, the inner attachment portions  3018  may be located on an inner side  3020  of the central attachment portion  3010 . As such, the inner attachment portions  3018  may be positioned on an opposite side of the central attachment portion  3010  from the outer attachment portions  3012 . The inner attachment portions  3018  may be spaced apart to define inner spaces  3022  between neighboring inner attachment portions  3018 . In an example, the inner attachment portions  3018  can extend substantially parallel to the intermediate support walls  332  of the support structure  302 . In this example, a size of the inner spaces  3022  can substantially match a size of the first row of openings  314 . As such, the outer spaces  3016  can be aligned with the second row of openings  316  while the inner attachment portions  3018  can be aligned with the intermediate support walls  332 . 
     The outer attachment portions  3012  and the inner attachment portions  3018  can facilitate attachment of the front attachment structure  3002  to the support structure  302 . In an example, the outer attachment portions  3012  and the inner attachment portions  3018  comprise openings into which fasteners can be received. The fasteners can pass through the outer attachment portions  3012  and the inner attachment portions  3018  and into openings in one or more of the outer support wall  326 , inner support wall  328 , support member  330 , or intermediate support wall  332  of the support structure  302 . As such, the fasteners can function to attach the front attachment structure  3002  to the first support side  308  of the support structure  302 . In other examples, the outer attachment portions  3012  and the inner attachment portions  3018  may comprise structures such as locking clips, locking tabs, or the like that can removably engage and lock with the support structure  302 . In the aforementioned examples, the fasteners that pass through the outer attachment portions  3012  and the inner attachment portions  3018  can allow for removable attachment of the front attachment structure  3002  to the support structure  302 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 5 , an example of the assembled segment  300  is illustrated. In this example, the core elements  350  can be at least partially received within the first row of openings  314  and the second row of openings  316  of the support structure  302 . For example, a portion of the first extension portion  393  of the core elements  350  can be received within the first row of openings  314 . In an example, a portion of the second extension portion  394  of the core elements  350  can be received within the second row of openings  314 . 
     With the core element  350  received within the openings  314 ,  316 , the attachment structure  396  (e.g., illustrated in  FIG. 3 ) can be attached to the second support side  310  of the support structure  302 . By attaching the attachment structure  396  to the support structure  302 , the core element  350  can be held in a substantially fixed position with respect to the support structure  302 . The core element  350  may be substantially limited from being inadvertently removed from the support structure  302 . 
     In an example, the front attachment structure  3002  can be attached to the first support side  308  of the support structure  302 . The front attachment structure  3002  can hold the inductive elements  3000  in place with respect to the support structure  302  and the core element  350  in a substantially fixed position. As such, the inductive elements  3000  may be substantially limited from being inadvertently removed from the core channel  356  of the core element  350 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a cross-sectional view  600  (e.g., taken along line  6 - 6  in  FIG. 5 ) of the segment  300 . In the illustrated example, the core element  350  can be disposed between the support structure  302  and the attachment structure  396 . For example, the support member  330  of the support structure  302  may be received within the first channel portion  366  of the core channel  356  of the core element  350 . The support member  330  can be disposed between the back walls  390  and adjacent to the back face  376  of the core element  350 . In some examples, when the support member  330  is received within the first channel portion  366 , a face of the support member  330  and the intermediate face  378  may be substantially planar (e.g., such as by both extending along the intermediate plane  380 ). As such, a central portion of the core element  350  may be disposed between the support member  330  of the support structure  302  and the attachment structure  396 . 
     The inductive elements  3000  can be received within the second channel portion  370  of the core channel  356 . In an example, the inductive elements  3000  may be spaced apart and positioned to extend adjacent to and/or in contact with the support member  330  of the support structure  302 . The inductive elements  3000  can be positioned between the intermediate walls  392 . In the illustrated example, the inductive elements  3000  may be spaced apart from the intermediate walls  392 . In some examples, the inductive elements  3000  may be disposed on a first side of the intermediate plane  380  while the support member  330  of the support structure  302  may be disposed at least partially on a second side of the intermediate plane  380 . The support member  330  of the support structure  302  may therefore be disposed between the core element  350  (e.g., a central portion of the core element defined, in part, by the back face  376 ) and the inductive elements  3000 . 
     In an example, the front attachment structure  3002  can be disposed at least partially within the second channel portion  370  of the core channel  356  between the intermediate walls  392 . In an example, the length of the front attachment structure  3002  (e.g., as measured up/down in  FIG. 6 ) may be less than the second channel width  372  of the second channel portion  370 . As such, the front attachment structure  3002  can be selectively inserted into the second channel portion  370  and removed from the second channel portion  370 . In an example, a face of the front attachment structure  3002  and the front face  382  may be substantially planar (e.g., such as by both extending along the plane  384 ). In this example, inductive elements  3000  may be disposed between the front attachment structure  3002  and the inner support member  330  of the support structure  302 . 
     The core elements  350  can be received within the first openings  314  and the second openings  316 . For example, the first extension portion  393  may be received within the first opening  314 . In the illustrated example, the front face  382  of the first extension portion  393  may be substantially planar to a front support face  502  defined along the outer support wall  326 . The second extension portion  394  may be received within the second opening  316 . In the illustrated example, the front face  382  of the second extension portion  394  may be substantially planar to a front support face  504  defined along the inner support wall  328 . As such, in an example, front faces of the outer support wall  326 , the first extension portion  393 , the front attachment structure  3002 , the second extension portion  394 , and the inner support wall  328  may be substantially planar. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates a cross-sectional view  700  (e.g., taken along line  7 - 7  in  FIG. 5 ) of the segment  300 . In the illustrated example, the cross-sectional view  700  is taken between neighboring core elements  350 . The front attachment structure  3002  can assist in maintaining the inductive elements  3000  in a fixed position relative to the support structure  302 . For example, the inductive elements  3000  can be positioned between the front attachment structure  3002  and the support structure  302 . 
     In an example, the inductive elements  3000  may extend adjacent to a central support face  701  of the support structure  302 . The central support face  701  may be substantially planar and extend between an outer side (e.g., upper side) and an inner side (e.g., lower side) of the support structure  302 . The central support face  701  can extend substantially parallel to the front attachment structure  3002 , with the front attachment structure  3002  spaced apart from the central support face  701  to define an opening therebetween. The inductive elements  3000  may be received within the opening so as to be maintained in place between the front attachment structure  3002  and the central support face  701 . 
     In the illustrated example, the inductive elements  3000  may be substantially supported along a length of the support structure  302  between the first support end  304  and the second support end  306 . For example, at locations between neighboring core elements  350  (e.g., as illustrated in  FIG. 7 ), the inductive elements  3000  may be held in place between the front attachment structure  3002  and the central support face  701  of the support structure  302 . When the inductive elements  3000  are received within the core channel  356  of the core element  350  (e.g., as illustrated in  FIG. 6 ), the inductive elements  3000  may be held in place between the front attachment structure  3002  and the support member  330  of the support structure  302 . In this way, the inductive elements  3000  may be held in place and substantially limited from becoming inadvertently removed from the core channel  356  of the core element  350 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 8 , a second example segment  800  is illustrated. As with the previous examples, the inductive elements  3000  may be at least partially received within the core channels  356  of the core elements  350 . It will be appreciated that the inductive elements  3000  are illustrated at least partially with dashed lines because the inductive elements  3000  are obstructed from view by the front attachment structure  3002 . 
     The inductive elements  3000  can be wound around the core element  350  from the first side  352  to the second side  354  (e.g., first side  352  and second side  354  illustrated in  FIG. 4 ). For example, the inductive elements  3000  can exit the support structure  302  at the first support end  304  and the second support end  306 . The inductive elements  3000  can be wound around the support structure  302  at a first winding location  802  and a second winding location  804 . At the first winding location  802  and the second winding location  804 , the inductive elements  3000  can be wound around the support structure  302  so as to extend along the second support side  310  of the support structure  302 . The inductive elements  3000  can therefore define a substantially closed loop that extends along the first support side  308  and the second support side  310  of the support structure  302 . 
     In this example, the inductive elements  3000  may comprise first inductive portions  806  and second inductive portions  808 . The first inductive portions  806  may be received within the core channel  356  of the core element  350  while the second inductive portions  808  may not be received within the core channel  356 . In still other embodiments, the support structure  302  may comprised a notched portion in which the second inductive portions  808  are received. Moreover, a cap may be disposed over the support structure  302  to at least partially cover the second inductive portions  808  while seated within the notched portion of the support structure  302 . 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a cross-sectional view  900  (e.g., taken along line  9 - 9  in  FIG. 8 ) of the segment  800 . In the illustrated example, a sectional view of the first inductive portion  806  and the second inductive portion  808  of the inductive elements  3000  is illustrated. The first inductive portion  806  may be received within the core channel  356 , such that the first inductive portion  806  extends along the first side  352  of the core element  350 . The second inductive portion  808  may not be received within the core channel  356 . Rather, the second inductive portion  808  can extend along the second side  354  of the core element  350 . As such, in this example, the core element  350  may be disposed between the first inductive portion  806  and the second inductive portion  808 . 
     It will be appreciated that the second inductive portion  808  is not limited to extending along the second side  354  of the core element  350 . Rather, the second inductive portion  808  may extend along a different side of the core element  350  while still not being received within the core channel  356 . For example, the second inductive portion  808  may extend along an upper surface of the support structure  302 , along a lower surface of the support structure  302 , etc. In these examples, the first inductive portions  806  may be connected to the second inductive portion  808  such that the inductive elements  3000  define a substantially continuous loop. 
     Turning to  FIG. 10 , the power coupling device  200  is illustrated. In an example, the power coupling device  200  comprises a plurality of segments  1000  that are configured to transfer power between the stator  110  and the rotor  104 . It will be appreciated that one of the plurality of segments  1000  is illustrated in a partially disassembled state for the purposes of illustration so as to show the relationship between portions of the segment. In operation, however, the plurality of segments  1000  may be in a fully assembled state. 
     In an example, the segments  1000  comprise a first subset  1002  of one or more segments, such as a plurality of segments having a configuration similar to the configuration illustrated in  FIGS. 3-7  (e.g., where the inductive elements  3000  is nearly disposed on one side of the core element  350 ). The first subset  1002  of the plurality of segments  1000  can be arranged to define a ring. The segments  1000  may comprise the segment  300  (e.g., illustrated in  FIG. 3 ), with the other segments substantially similar to the segment  300 . For example, the segment  300 , and the plurality of segments  1000 , may comprise the support structure  302 , the core element  350 , the attachment structure  396 , the front attachment structure  3002 , etc. 
     The first subset  1002  may comprise first inductive elements  1004 . In the illustrated example, the first inductive elements  1004  may be substantially similar to the inductive elements  3000  illustrated in  FIG. 3 . Any number of first inductive elements  1004  (e.g., one or more) are envisioned, though in the illustrated example of  FIG. 10 , the first inductive elements  1004  comprise two inductive elements. The first inductive elements  1004  may extend through the support structures of the plurality of segments  1000 , such that the first inductive elements  1004  can be arranged to form a ring. The first inductive elements  1004  can be maintained in place with respect to the support structures and core elements of the segments  1000  in a similar manner as described with respect to  FIGS. 3 to 7 . 
     The first inductive elements  1004  of the first subset  1002  may be coupled in parallel to define a first winding  906  of a transformer. In some examples, the first winding  906  may comprise a primary winding, which generates a magnetic field in response to an input voltage, or a secondary winding, which has an output voltage induced as a result of the magnetic field generated by the primary winding. 
     The segments  1000  comprise a second subset  1010  of one or more segments, such as one or more segments having a configuration similar to the configuration illustrated in  FIGS. 8 and 9  (e.g., where the inductive elements  3000  can be wound around the core element  350  from the first side  352  to the second side). The second subset  1010  of the plurality of segments  1000  can be arranged to define a partial ring. That is, in an example, the second subset  1010  of the plurality of segments  1000  can extend partially about a center axis (e.g., the z-axis) and may define a non-closed shape (e.g., less than a full ring). As such, the second subset  1010  can have a first end and an opposing second end, with the second subset  1010  extending about the center axis (e.g., the z-axis) between the first end and the second end. In an example, the second subset  1010  of the plurality of segments  1000  that defines a partial ring can form one of the stator  110  or the rotor  104 . 
     It will be appreciated that in the example of  FIG. 10 , the second subset  1010  comprises a single segment. However, in other examples, the second subset  1010  is not so limited, and may comprise a plurality of segments arranged adjacent to each other so as to extend at least partially about the center axis (e.g., the z-axis). In some examples, the first subset  1002  and the second subset  1010  can extend about a common center axis (e.g., the z-axis), such that the first subset  1002  and the second subset  1010  may be substantially co-axial. In the illustrated example, the second subset  1010  can be located adjacent to and may extend substantially parallel to the first subset  1002 . In a possible example, the second subset  1010  may form a complete ring, similar to the first subset  1002 , such that the first subset  1002  and the second subset  1010  may be substantially similar. In an example, a first winding of the one or more additional windings of the second subset  1010  may be wound around a second center axis (e.g., the y-axis). In some examples, the second center axis may be substantially perpendicular to the center axis. 
     The segments of the second subset  1010  may be substantially similar to the segments of the first subset  1002 . For example, the segments of the second subset  1010  may comprise a support structure (e.g., support structure  302 ), a core element (e.g., core element  350 ), an attachment structure (e.g., the attachment structure  396 ), a front attachment structure (e.g., the front attachment structure  3002 ), etc. 
     The second subset  1010  may comprise second inductive elements  1012 . In the illustrated example, the second inductive elements  1012  may be substantially similar to the inductive elements  3000  illustrated with respect to  FIGS. 8 and 9 . For example, the second inductive elements  1012  may comprise the first inductive portions  806 , which can be received within a core channel of a core element, and the second inductive portions  808 , which may not be received within the core channel. In this way, the second inductive elements  1012  can be wound around the segment of the second subset  1010  in a similar manner as illustrated with respect to  FIGS. 8 and 9 . 
     It will be appreciated that any number of second inductive elements  1012  (e.g., one or more) are envisioned, though in the illustrated example of  FIG. 10 , the second inductive elements  1012  comprise two inductive elements. The second inductive elements  1012  may extend through the support structures of the second subset  1010  of segments  1000 , such that the second inductive elements  1012  can be arranged to form a partial ring. The second inductive elements  1012  can be maintained in place with respect to the support structures and core elements of the second subset  1010  of segments  1000  in a similar manner as described with respect to  FIGS. 3 to 8 . 
     The second inductive elements  1012  of the second subset  1010  can define a second winding  1014  of the transformer. In an example, the second winding  1014  may comprise a primary winding or a secondary winding. For example, when the first winding  906  of the first subset  1002  comprises the primary winding, the second winding  1014  of the second subset  1010  may comprise the secondary winding. In another example, when the first winding  906  of the first subset  1002  comprises the secondary winding, the second winding  1014  of the second subset  1010  may comprise the primary winding. In an example, the second subset  1010  may comprise a first segment having a first inductive element that defines a first additional winding. The second subset  1010  may comprise a second segment having a second inductive element defining a second additional winding. In some examples, the first additional winding and the second additional winding may be inductively coupled with the first winding  906 . 
     In operation, power may be applied to one of the inductive elements. For example, when power is applied to the first inductive elements  1004 , an inductive field may be generated. This inductive field can induce a current in the second inductive elements  1012 . In another example, when power is applied to the second inductive elements  1012 , an inductive field may be generated. This inductive field can induce a current in the first inductive elements  1004 . It will be appreciated that this transfer of power between the first inductive elements  1004  and the second inductive elements  1012  will generate magnetic fields, or magnetic flux, that may be shunted by (e.g., confined within) the core element  350 . The magnetic flux may escape the core element  350  in the vicinity of a core airgap (e.g., the airgap that separates the rotor from the stator and allows the rotor to rotate relative to the stator). 
     Assembly and/or disassembly of portions of the power coupling device  200  may be relatively easy due to the segments  1000 . For example, the segments  1000  can be assembled by inserting the core element  350  into the openings of the support structure  302 , and inserting the inductive elements into the core channel  356  of the core element  350 . The inductive elements and the core element  350  may be held in place with respect to the support structure  302  by attaching the attachment structure  396  and the front attachment structure  3002  to the support structure. With a segment  1000  partially or fully assembled, the segment can be attached to neighboring segments by way of the first attachment portions  336  and the second attachment portions  338 . Segments  1000  can likewise be readily disassembled and taken apart, for reasons due to maintenance, replacement, etc. 
     The words “example” and/or “exemplary” are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect, design, etc. described herein as “example” and/or “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as advantageous over other aspects, designs, etc. Rather, use of these terms is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or”. That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims may generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Also, at least one of A and B or the like generally means A or B or both A and B. 
     Although the disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the herein illustrated example implementations of the disclosure. Similarly, illustrated ordering(s) of acts is not meant to be limiting, such that different orderings comprising the same of different (e.g., numbers) of acts are intended to fall within the scope of the instant disclosure. In addition, while a particular feature of the disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “having,” “has,” “with,” or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”