At the annual Intel Developer Forum (IDF) on Thursday, Intel demonstrated a prototype system that was able to transmit power wirelessly. By means of "resonant induction," a light bulb connected to a receiver coil was lighted up from a transmitting pair located 2 to 3 feet away. The bulb remained lit, even as the coils used to wirelessly transmit and receive the power were moved around.
While the distance might be too short at the moment for most practical purposes, the fact that the demonstration managed to transmit 60 watts--a non trivial amount of power--is certainly exciting news. And yes, no direct line of sight is required to broadcast power using this technology.
All that is needed now is for Intel to increase the range to say, at least fifteen feet, and reduce the size of both the receiving and transmitting coils. It will certainly result in a paradigm shift in the way we approach electronics and gadgets.
Indeed, laptops and cell phones may no longer require bulky batteries, and instead could leverage on wireless power pumped out from adapters located in various areas throughout a home or office, instead. Outdoor portability could come from a wireless battery or two that one can stow in a backpack.
What other applications of wireless power can you think of? Why not write in and share your thoughts with me. - Paul [1]
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[1] mailto:paulmah@techatplay.com?subject=Feedback%20on%20TechWatch