The Emergence of Wireles Technology

Wireless power was never something new. In fact, the concept of wireless power transmission has been around since the 20th century. It was thought of by electrical and mechanical engineer, Nikola Tesla. His concept involved using an “electrostatic induction, using a Tesla coil-like device” (Biaggi, Gaddy, Lu), inventing the first alternating current (AC) motor and developed AC generation and transmission technology (Nikola Tesla, 2018). Years later, engineers are motivated to adapt on this idea of wireless power. Tesla paved the wave of new wireless technology concepts, and how it can be used in our society.

Imagine never having to seek out an outlet or carry backup battery chargers for your array of devices. Companies are exploring this alternative, with plans to move into public and private sector businesses. One of the more popular ideas is WiTricity, a startup branded by Eric Giler, in which wireless electricity beam from a base station to an electrical device. He knew that society was so reliant on electricity and batteries.

“There are trillions of dollars that have been invested in infrastructure around the world, putting up wires to get power from where it’s created to where it’s used” (Giler, 2009). However, the concept was actually developed by MIT theoretical physicists, of transferring power over distance. “They were able to light a 60 watt light bulb at a distance of about two meters. It got about 50% of the efficiency…a couple thousand times more efficient than a battery would be, to do the same thing” (Giler, 2009). WiTricity technology is the idea of resonant energy transfer.

Get quality help now

Prof. Finch

Verified

Proficient in: Nikola Tesla

4.7 (346)

“ This writer never make an mistake for me always deliver long before due date. Am telling you man this writer is absolutely the best. ”

+84 relevant experts are online

Hire writer

The coils and wires in these two energies, induces a magnetic field captured in these coils. If induced at the same frequency, over a short distance, it can actually transfer magnetic energy between them, hence being wireless. Eric Giler even shows a live demonstration of a souce, turning on the TV, which then started up phones. This innovation of wireless power byproduct can go in floors, ceilings, or other infrastructures, activating not only our devices, but can also manage health implications and credit cards.

With the implementation of this new technology, battery production and usage will lessen, helping the environment. Batteries are one of the most toxic contributors to landfills. Wireless power can inhibit the production, use, and accumulation of batteries and dramatically reduce the leaching of lead and acid into the soil (Biaggi, Gaddy, Lu). This will also indirectly reduce the dependence on fossil fuels. There are many accidental incidents caused by wires or batteries including electric shock, fires, burns, and explosions. Switching to wireless power, it can potentially save thousands of lives by reducing the number of deaths associated with electrical and wiring problems. Many have heard of wireless power with the invention of technology like Tesla. Not only is it used in cars, it can help in health-related professions. It can help reduce the risk of infection and improving a patient’s quality life. It can reinvent medical implants, hospitals, home care operation, and reduce the risk of invasive surgeries and risks like infections or diseases (Biaggi, Gaddy, Lu).

Although wireless power can revision the way we use our devices to be more efficient, this concept is still rather new in terms of design and widespread use. The exposure to this wave of energy is still being researched and needs to be further developed. And to get this enforced, it would have to change the infrastructure game. It can eliminate further use of wires, cords, and batteries, but the production of these products now would still go to landfills. These large quantities of waste and chemicals into the soil would not be suitable for not only our health but also not helping the world become more sustainable. In addition, with the wireless tech we have now, like wireless charging device stations, there are still limitations. “The need for very close contact between the device and the charging pad, as well as proper alignment of the induction coils, for power to be transmitted” (Kumar, 2018). These are the questions that need to be solved before actually carrying out wireless power products everywhere.

Although there are currently limitations to wireless power, businesses and citizens are starting to recognizing the concept. WiTricity has public licensees that include Intel, Mediatek, Delphi, IHI, TDK, and Toyota, and is currently on the rise. “The total market for wireless power systems of all kinds will reach $8.5 billion in 2018… those using magnetic resonance technology will need a WiTricity license” (Bender, 2014). Especially with the immense reliance on technology today, the market recognizes the vitality wireless power has. Standard licensing agreements are to be made as soon as possible to put these new technological products to practice and use. “IMS Research estimated last year that it will be a $4.5 billion market by 2016. Pike Research projected a few weeks ago that wireless power products will triple in the next eight years to a $15 billion market” (Ferries, 2012). Emerging wireless power products are seeing a positive future.

Society is progressively moving towards a more heavy reliant technology-based consumerism. It is no wonder wireless power products are emerging and we are listening. No more batteries and cords means a more sustainable alternative to charing devices. Not only can consumers benefit from it, the market will also advance. Marin Solijaic, MIT physicist who helped create WiTricity, predicts “that people will expect wireless electricity no matter where they go, and where society goes, state and local government will follow” (Collins, 2014). Although wireless power has already been invented, the emerging byproducts, is something to look forward to.

References:

1. Biaggi, Taylor & Gaddy, Jarrett & Lu, Howard. (n.d). “Ethical Implications of Wireless Power.”
2. Retrieved from https://sites.google.com/a/uw.edu/ethical-implications-of-wireless-power/entire-paper
3. Bender, Eric. (2014, October 28). “A World of Wireless Power.” Retrieved from http://news.mit.edu/2014/world-wireless-power-witricity-1028
4. Collins, Hilton. (2014, May 1). “How Will Wireless Electricity Affect the Public and Private Sectors?” Retrieved from http://www.govtech.com/products/How-Will-Wireless-Electricity-Affect-the-Public-and-Private-Sectors.html
5. Ferries, David. (2012, July 24). “How Wireless Charging Will Make Life Simpler (And Grenner).” Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidferris/2012/07/24/how-wireless-charging-will-make-life-simpler-and-greener/#36cbdc03c35e
6. Giler, Eric. (2009). “A Demo of Wireless Electricity.” [Video]. Retrieved from https://www.ted.com/talks/eric_giler_demos_wireless_electricity/up-next?language=en#t-561091
7. Kumar, Alan. (2018, June 8). “Wireless Power is Coming.” Retrieved from https://www.pcmag.com/article/361628/wireless-power-is-coming
8. “Nikola Tesla.” (2018, October 3). Retrieved from https://www.history.com/topics/inventions/nikola-tesla