AN OBJECT DETECTION APPARATUS FOR AN INDUCTIVE CHARGING SYSTEM

In an inductive charging system energy is transferred via a magnetic field. An object detection apparatus for an inductive charging system comprises a transmitter for transmitting a signal and a receiver having a field of view including a substantial portion of the magnetic field for receiving reflections of the signal within the field of view. A signal processor examines characteristics of the received signal to identify a hazard condition in relation to the magnetic field. By converting the received signal into a frequency domain signal hazard conditions may be identified depending on the form of the frequency domain signal. The object detection apparatus is suitable for use in a charging apparatus for electric vehicle.