REPORT

ON
FUTURE WITH WIRELESS POWER TRANSFER
TECHNOLOGY

EEN-391: TECHNICAL COMMUNICATION

Submitted by

GAURAV (Enroll. No: 21115053)

GORRE ANANYA (Enroll. No: 21115054)
GUGULOTH RAMTEJA (Enroll. No: 21115055)

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY ROORKEE
ROORKEE - 247667, UK (INDIA)
Autumn, 2023-24
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page No.
Abstract 2
1. Introduction 3
1.1 General 3
1.2 Concept of Wireless Power Transfer 3
2. Historical Development 4
3. Wireless Power Transmission Techniques 5
3.1 Non-radiative / Near-field transfer 5
3.1.1 Inductive Method 5
3.2 Radiative / Far-field transfer 6
3.2.1 Microwave Power Transmission 6
3.2.2 Laser beam power Transmission 6
3.3.3 Orbiting Solar Panel 7
4. Potential Applications and Industries 8
5. Advantages and Disadvantages 11
5.1 Advantages 11
5.2 Disadvantages 11
6. Moving Forward 13
6.1 Current State of Wireless Power Transfer 13
6.2 Towards Realization 13
7. Conclusion 14
References 15

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 ABSTRACT

The rapid evolution of technology has led to innovative solutions that challenge traditional
power delivery methods. Wireless power transfer is the transmission of electrical energy
without wires as a physical connection.
Wireless power transmission can help connect those areas where people are unable to get a
suitable power source. Everyone can get clean and green wireless power. In future all the
devices will relate to the power supply source wirelessly.
In this report, we will explore the future of Wireless Power Transfer technology. We will
discuss the potential applications of Wireless Power Transfer, the challenges that need to be
addressed, and the progress that has been made in recent years.
We will also look at the impact that Wireless Power Transfer could have on our lives. How
could it make our homes, workplaces, and transportation systems more efficient and
sustainable?
The future of Wireless Power Transfer is bright. With continued research and development,
this technology has the potential to change the way we live and work.

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 CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION

1.1 General
Around the world, electricity is transferred from power stations to everywhere via wires.
Wireless power transfer technology can potentially reduce or eliminate the need for wires and
batteries. Wireless transmission is useful to power electrical devices where interconnecting
wires are inconvenient, hazardous, or are not possible.
It is particularly useful in the wireless functioning or re-charging of various products such
as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, transportation devices such as drones and electric
vehicles (EVs), wearable electronics, transmitter applications, and solar cells. The technology
has begun to find increasing acceptance in various domains such as consumer electronics,
transport, heating and ventilation, industrial engineering, and model engineering.
Wireless Power Transfer allows doing away with the limitation of a power cord while
keeping electrical devices charged continuously. Reliable, efficient, fast, and with a low
maintenance cost, it can also be used for short-range or long-range. At the same time, this
kind of charging gives a far lower risk of electrical shock as it is galvanically isolated.

1.2 Concept of Wireless Power Transfer

Wireless Power Transfer is a technology that allows the transfer of electric power without
wires. Based on technologies using electric, magnetic, or electromagnetic fields, it is capable
of supplying power from a standard AC source to the batteries and devices which are
compatible, without any physical connectors. This technology utilizes the electromagnetic
field generated by the charged particles to transfer energy through the air gap, which is
further converted into usable domestic current by the receiver. Wireless power involves the
exchange of energy by two objects having a similar resonant frequency while dissipating
relatively little energy to the extraneous off-resonant objects. [2]

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 CHAPTER 2
HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT

The concept of WPT started in the late 19th century when Nikola Tesla, a
Serbian-American inventor, best known for his contributions to the design of alternating
current (AC) power supply systems, proposed and worked on wireless power. Tesla displayed
wireless bulbs at World Columbian Exposition in the early 1890s.
He built a gigantic coil that was connected to a 200-ft high mast with a 3-ft diameter ball at
its top. The device was called the Tesla Tower. Tesla fed 300 kW of power to the coil, which
resonated at a frequency of 150 kHz. The radio frequency (RF) at the top sphere reached 100
MV. Unfortunately, the experiment failed because the transmitted power diffused in all
directions using 150-kHz radio waves with a wavelength of 21 km. It was a wide-beam WPT
similar to a broadcasting system.[5]

In early 1961s, William C Brown proposed possibilities of microwave power transmission

by publishing an article exploring possibilities of microwave power transmission. By
improving devices to transmit and receive high power microwave energy, Brown was able to
demonstrate a model of an electric helicopter in 1964, which was powered by a microwave
beam transmitted from the ground. [4]

In 2007, a team from MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) successfully lighted a

60W bulb at a distance of 2 meters with ~40% efficiency. In 2009, Sony came up with a
wireless electrodynamics induction powered TV set. In recent years, so many experiments
and advancements have happened, leading to the advent of different wireless mobile
chargers. [2]

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 CHAPTER 3
WIRELESS POWER TRANSMISSION TECHNIQUES

3.1 Non-radiative / Near-field transfer

3.1.1 Inductive Method
In this type of transfer, coupling of two coils is needed to transfer power. The same
principle is used in both wireless charging and transformer, where there is no direct
connection between primary and secondary coils. Mutual induction leads to energy transfer
between primary and secondary circuits. In this method, the induction coil on the charger acts
as a primary coil and makes an alternating electromagnetic field when power is supplied to it.
The portable device (which needs to be charged) contains the secondary coil that receives
power from this electromagnetic field when it is placed on the charger and converts it to
electrical current and charges the battery. This fantastic principle is applied to charge devices
within a minimal range.

Fig1: Electromagnetic induction

It is advantageous, convenient, and safe as no hazardous conductors are exposed, entailing

no risk of electrical shock. For example, most electric toothbrushes use wireless chargers,
which are much safer than cable chargers in a wet environment. The same principle with
resonant inductive coupling can be used for power transmission. Resonant inductive coupling
increases the transmission range. Here, primary and secondary coils resonate at the same
frequency. Electricity given to the primary coil generates an oscillating magnetic field and is
picked up by a secondary coil, which is converted into electricity for the load.

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Another type of coupling is capacitive coupling or electrostatic induction. The principle
involves capacitive coupling between two or more electrodes or plates with high frequency,
high potential AC current.
All the above principles are limited to small distances, and can’t be implemented for more
considerable distances.
Induction charging is used to manufacture wireless charges for toothbrushes, mobiles,
shavers, and portable devices. [1], [2]

3.2 Radiative / Far-field transfer

3.2.1 Microwave Power Transmission
In this type of transfer, radiative electromagnetic waves within different wave bands are
used. It was William C Brown who first demonstrated wireless power transmission over
greater distances through this method using Rectenna, an antenna with rectifier device, in
1964. This method provides the feasibility of directional power transmission by a microwave
transmitter, which generates microwaves utilizing an antenna. The receiver has a Rectenna
that converts microwaves back to electricity. One of the major obstacles with this method is
that it needs very large scale antennas.

Fig2: Microwave transmission antennae

3.2.2 Laser beam Power Transmission

In this method, power can be transferred by converting electricity into a laser beam and
transmitted from the source. Photovoltaic cells are used as a receiver, and they convert the
laser beam back to electricity. Special photovoltaic laser power converters are optimized for
monochromatic light conversion that are applied at the receiver. In the case the power is
beamed at a receiver that can convert it to electrical energy, so this mechanism is generally

6
known as ‘power beaming’ technology. The laser beam’s cross-section is small, and it is
advantageous for transmitting over more considerable distances, but laser beams are harmful
to human beings and animals. Also, it is highly directional as photovoltaic cells should be
exposed to the transmitted laser beam; otherwise, complete loss of power could happen.
Other difficulties that could affect the efficiency of this system include atmospheric
absorption, environmental scattering effects, and weather difficulties. [1], [2]

3.2.3 Orbiting Solar Panel

In this proposed method of transmitting solar energy from space to Earth, a large solar
panel would be positioned thousands of kilometers above the Earth in a geostationary orbit,
where it would transmit power back to Earth via microwave or laser beams. The beams
would then be focused on a rectenna, which will convert the laser energy into electricity. The
rectenna would be located on Earth and would be connected to the power grid.
The orbiting solar panel method of wireless power transfer has several potential advantages
over traditional solar power generation methods. If launched, the system will benefit from
never passing out of sunlight, generating 24x7 continuous electricity. Furthermore, with no
atmosphere to transition through and no interference, solar panels in space are eight to ten
times more efficient at converting solar power into electricity then Earth-based systems. This
is often seen as the ‘ultimate goal’ in wireless power.

Fig3: Wireless power transmission through solar power satellite

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 CHAPTER 4
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRIES

1. Consumer Electronics:
Wireless power transfer is already being used in some consumer electronics devices,
such as smartphones and electric toothbrushes. In the future, it is likely to become the
standard way to charge these devices.

2. Electric Vehicles:
Wireless power transfer could be used to charge electric vehicles without the need
for plugs or cables. This would make it much more convenient to charge electric
vehicles and could help to reduce the range anxiety that is currently a barrier to their
adoption.

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3. Healthcare and Medical Devices:
Wireless power transfer technology holds significant potential to revolutionize the
field of healthcare and medical devices. Its ability to provide consistent and reliable
power to medical implants and wearable devices addresses some of the key challenges
associated with traditional battery-powered solutions.
Cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators, as well as neurostimulators, are crucial
devices that require long-term power. Wireless power transfer can eliminate the need
for invasive procedures to replace batteries by enabling remote charging of these
implants. Wearable health devices, such as continuous glucose monitors and smart
insulin pumps for diabetes management, can greatly benefit from wireless power
transfer.
4. Smart Homes and Appliances:
Wireless power transfer technology can redefine how we interact with everyday
devices and appliances within the context of smart homes. By eliminating the need for
physical power cords and cables, wireless charging enhances the convenience and
aesthetic appeal of modern living spaces. Devices like smartphones, tablets,
smartwatches, and even rechargeable batteries can seamlessly charge without
requiring specific charging ports or cables.

Fig6: Wireless power transmission from transmitting

device into the home appliances

5. Infrastructure:
The infrastructure sector is responsible for maintaining and operating essential
services, such as streetlights and traffic lights. Wireless power transfer could be a

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 valuable tool for this sector, as it can help to reduce the cost of maintaining these
services and could make these systems more reliable.

6. Space exploration:
Wireless power transfer could be used to enable remote charging of spacecraft and
rovers without the need for solar panels or fuel cells. This could make it possible to
explore more distant planets and could also help to reduce the cost of space
exploration.

7. Environmental benefits:
Whether it is charging a handheld device, or changing the effect of global warming
on this planet, wireless power transfer has an answer. The most commercially viable
application arising to counter the effects of global warming and the increasing
demand for electricity is Wireless Power Transfer through microwave transmission
from space. This application will supply limitless power to earth and also open up
many new opportunities for space exploration. With global warming having a
significant impact on this earth by 2050, alternatives to high polluting fossil fuel
plants need to be created. Earth’s future could be dependent entirely on wireless
power transfer. Even though the actual process does not produce any energy, the
improvements it can make to this earth are staggering. A few examples include
pollutant free electricity, reduction of fossil fuel demand, a solution to the oil crisis,
increased safety for medical procedures, and the mobility of having power anywhere
at any time.

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 CHAPTER 5
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

5.1 Advantages
Wireless power transmission and distribution has distinct advantages over wired connections
and may achieve higher efficiency in the times to come.
1. Convenience and Simplicity: Wireless power transfer eliminates the need for
physical cables and connectors, providing a seamless and hassle-free charging
experience. Users can simply place their devices on charging surfaces without dealing
with tangled cords.
2. Safety: Wireless charging can eliminate the need for exposed conductors, eliminating
the risk of electric shock and the risk of water or dust damage to devices.
3. Potential Energy Efficiency: Losses occurring during the transmission of electrical
power constitute a significant problem in power systems. The loss of power during the
transmission is estimated to be 26%. The prime reason for this loss during
transmission can be attributed to the resistance of wires used in the grid.
According to WRI (World Resource Institute), India’s electricity grid incurs the
highest percentage (27-40%) of power transmission losses in the world. In this
context, electricity transmission using an electromagnetic induction method can be
highly useful. [2]
4. Scalability: Wireless power transfer can be scaled to meet the needs of different
applications providing much flexibility to the system.
5. Enhanced Durability: Traditional charging cables are prone to wear and tear over
time, leading to decreased efficiency. Wireless charging eliminates this issue,
potentially increasing the longevity of devices.

5.2 Disadvantages
Wireless power transfer has its downside too.
1. Efficiency and Energy Loss: Wireless power transfer is still relatively inefficient,
especially over long distances. It suffers from energy loss due to electromagnetic
interference and inefficiencies in the transfer process, resulting in lower charging
speeds and a lot of wasted energy.

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2. Limited Range: Wireless charging typically requires devices to be placed close to the
charging source, limiting the freedom of movement during charging. Longer-range
wireless charging is still under development and faces technical challenges.
3. High Capital Cost: Wireless power transfer is still a relatively expensive technology.
Developing and implementing wireless charging technology can be costly, which
might translate to higher device prices for consumers. Additionally, upgrading
existing infrastructure to support wireless charging can also be expensive.
4. Regulatory Concerns: Electromagnetic fields used in wireless charging could
potentially raise health and safety concerns, necessitating strict regulations and
standards.

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 CHAPTER 6
MOVING FORWARD

6.1 Current State of Wireless Power Transfer

Wireless power transfer technology is being used to develop dynamic wireless charging
systems for electric buses. In these systems, every bus has a wireless charging receiver.
Wireless chargers are embedded in the hard surface of a road or under the road surface at
regular intervals. When the bus stops, there is no need to plug in or no need to connect with
wireless chargers. It will automatically get charged. It’s a motion bus. These kinds of buses
have already been tested in several countries, including the UK, Italy, the Netherlands, and
South Korea. [1]
The Japanese government is prepared to spend $21 billion with the aim of placing one
gigawatt of solar generating capacity into space within the next thirty years. [3]
Global key manufacturers of Wireless Power Transfer include Renesas Electronics, Texas
Instruments, NXP, Analog Devices, Samsung Electronics, etc. Global top five manufacturers
hold a share of about 30%. Asia-Pacific is the largest market of Wireless Power Transfer
(WPT), holding a share over 40%. In terms of product, the Near-Field Power Transfer holds a
larger segment, with a share over 90%. And in terms of application, the largest application is
Smart Phones and Tablets, with a share of over 75%. [6]

6.2 Towards Realization

Wireless power has the potential to assist in various situations where wires would be
impractical. On an individual level it would assist with decluttering, since multiple devices
could be powered through a single induction transmitter. Furthermore, battery life would no
longer be such an issue and so devices could be made smaller and lighter. As the technology
progresses, power cables could be removed from buildings all together. This would have the
benefit of every device behaving as if it had infinite battery life, and additional lighting could
be installed without the need for an electrician.
The main issue facing wireless energy transfer is its efficiency, which deteriorates rapidly
as the distance between the transmitter and receiver increases. Low levels of efficiency
results in increased cost and slower charging. Optimists however predict that over time this
technology will catch-up with current copper wires, becoming just as – if not more –
efficient. [3]

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 CHAPTER 7
CONCLUSION

In the realm of power distribution and technological innovation, wireless power transfer
stands as a transformative force with the potential to reshape industries and the way we live
our daily lives. As we've journeyed through this report, several key insights have emerged.
Wireless power transfer's adaptability, ranging from small-scale personal devices to
large-scale infrastructure, underscores its profound versatility. From the convenience of
wirelessly charging smartphones to the game-changing impact on electric vehicles and
medical implants, this technology unlocks new possibilities that transcend traditional power
delivery methods.
Moreover, the global landscape is already witnessing the fruits of this evolution. Wireless
charging pads integrated into smart homes, electric buses effortlessly charging while on the
move, and medical implants operating without the need for battery replacements are tangible
indicators of its real-world potential.
However, with innovation comes challenges. Issues like efficiency optimization,
standardization, and regulatory considerations demand our attention. As this technology
matures, addressing these challenges will be vital for its continued growth and successful
integration into society.
In the journey towards a future powered by wireless energy, collaboration among
stakeholders, including governments, industries, and innovators, is key. With continued
research, development, and collective efforts, the dream of a world where power is
transmitted seamlessly through the air is within our grasp.
In conclusion, the future with wireless power transfer technology is one brimming with
possibilities. It offers convenience, efficiency, and environmental benefits while sparking
innovations across a multitude of sectors. Embracing this technology and overcoming its
challenges can pave the way for a more connected, sustainable, and empowered world. The
future is wireless, and it holds promise for a brighter tomorrow.

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 REFERENCES

[1]_https://www.researchgate.net/publication/333245589_Future_with_Wireless_Power_Tran
sfer_Technology
[2]_https://www.engineersgarage.com/wireless-power-fuel-of-the-future/
[3]_https://rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/commentary/cutting-cable-future-wirele
ss-power
[4]_ https://ethw.org/William_C._Brown
[5]_https://www.researchgate.net/publication/348442297_History_and_Innovation_of_Wirel
ess_Power_Transfer_via_Microwaves
[6]_https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/wireless-power-transfer-wpt-market-know-faster-growin
g-hussain/

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PLAGIARISM CHECK

9% on Grammarly

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