IEEE 125th Anniversary Media Event: Wireless Power

Wireless power transfer is in its infancy.  Inductive systems that utilize "charging mats" or "charging cradles" are starting to appear on the market.  Although these systems do eliminate the need for a power cord, they require that the device being charged be in close proximity or even touching, the power source.  WiTricity technology, based on resonant magnetic coupling, has the distinct advantage that it can operate over a broad range of distances--centimeters to meters, and over a broad range of power levels.  A team led by Katie Hall at WiTricity Corp. is now actively developing the core technology and additional intellectual property that will take wireless power transfer and turn it into commercially available products.  The goal is to develop a family of wireless power components that will enable designers and manufacturers in a broad range of industries to make products truly "wireless."  

Typical product configurations will consist of a compact wireless power source, which will be plugged into an AC outlet, USB power port, or automobile "cigarette lighter." This power source will wirelessly transfer power to a device, for example, a mobile phone or laptop computer that has a wireless power capture device built into it and tightly integrated with its rechargeable battery. In addition, Hall and her team are working on higher power applications such as wireless charging of electric vehicles, and wireless powering of lighting fixtures.  Products with WiTricity wireless power technology are expected to reach consumers in 12-24 months.