Futures

University of Texas Team Develops Wireless Charging Tech for Drones and Beyond, (from page 20240616.)

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Summary

A team at the University of Texas at Dallas, led by Dr. Ifana Mahbub, has received a DARPA fellowship to develop far-field wireless power transfer technology for recharging drones in flight. This technology allows drones to refuel mid-air without landing, representing a significant advancement over current short-distance wireless charging methods. The project aims to create a practical beamforming network to minimize power loss and ensure real-time tracking of drones. Beyond drones, this wireless charging concept could extend to electric vehicles, mobile devices, and even medical implants, with the goal of enhancing power solutions for various applications.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Wireless Power Transfer for Drones Development of wireless technology to recharge drones in flight without landing. Shifting from short-distance charging to long-distance wireless power transfer for UAVs. In ten years, drones may operate continuously without the need for frequent landings to recharge. Growing demand for autonomous drones and efficiency in operations. 4
Integration of Wireless Charging in Infrastructure Facilitating long-distance wireless charging by placing transmitters in buildings and infrastructure. Transitioning from personal charging devices to a networked infrastructure for wireless power delivery. In a decade, urban environments may include wireless charging systems integrated into public infrastructure. The push for convenient charging solutions and the proliferation of electric vehicles. 4
Wireless Charging for Medical Devices Development of wireless charging technology for implanted medical devices using low-frequency waves. Moving from wired power sources to wireless solutions for implanted devices. In ten years, medical implants may operate wirelessly, enhancing patient comfort and mobility. Advances in medical technology and the need for patient-friendly solutions. 5
Dynamic Beamforming for Power Transfer Using telemetry and phased-array antennas to direct power beams to moving UAVs. Advancing from static power sources to dynamic, real-time power transfer systems. In a decade, power transfer systems may adapt to moving targets across various applications. The evolution of autonomous vehicles and the need for continuous power supply. 5

Concerns

name description relevancy
Electromagnetic Wave Scattering The challenge of electromagnetic wave scattering during power beaming may hinder effective power transfer over long distances. 4
Theoretical vs Practical Implementation Much of the current research on far-field wireless power transfer is theoretical; practical applications and safety measures are still unproven. 4
Interference with Existing Technologies The introduction of far-field wireless charging could interfere with existing wireless technologies and communication systems. 3
Health Concerns of Electromagnetic Waves Long-term exposure to electromagnetic waves, even at mandated low frequencies, raises concerns about their impact on health. 5
Privacy and Security of UAVs Tracking and powering UAVs in real time may pose privacy and security risks for sensitive operations and data. 4
Unintended Consequences of Neural Implants The development of wireless power transfer for brain implants may lead to unexpected ethical and health implications. 5

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Wireless Power Transfer for Drones Development of technology for recharging drones in flight using far-field wireless power transfer, reducing the need for landing. 5
Beamforming Technology Use of phased-array antennas to direct electromagnetic waves efficiently for long-distance power transfer. 4
Telemetry for UAV Tracking Integration of real-time telemetry systems to track UAV movements and adjust power beam direction accordingly. 4
Cross-Technology Wireless Charging Extending far-field wireless charging concepts to electric vehicles, mobile phones, and wearable devices. 3
Wireless Charging for Medical Devices Development of wireless charging systems for implanted medical devices, focusing on safety and reconfigurability. 4
Neural Signal Integration Creating systems for recording and stimulating neural signals wirelessly, with applications in medical research. 5

Technologies

description relevancy src
A technology that enables drones to recharge in flight using electromagnetic waves over long distances. 5 442dee7d7ffa984ba157b0d7bce3add0
A method that directs electromagnetic waves to minimize path loss and efficiently deliver power to moving drones. 4 442dee7d7ffa984ba157b0d7bce3add0
Development of wireless charging technology for implanted medical devices using safe low-frequency electromagnetic waves. 4 442dee7d7ffa984ba157b0d7bce3add0
A system that tracks UAV movements in real-time for accurate power delivery during flight. 4 442dee7d7ffa984ba157b0d7bce3add0
Integration of wireless power systems to provide energy for neural signal recording and stimulation in animal models. 5 442dee7d7ffa984ba157b0d7bce3add0

Issues

name description relevancy
Wireless Power Transfer for Drones Development of far-field wireless technology to recharge drones in flight, potentially transforming UAV operations. 5
Theoretical Research in Power Beaming Current research on radiative wireless power transfer is mostly theoretical, with a need for practical applications. 4
Dynamic Signal Tracking for UAVs Innovations in telemetry and beam steering to maintain consistent power supply to moving drones. 4
Long-Distance Wireless Charging Infrastructure The potential for infrastructure-based long-distance wireless charging for vehicles and devices. 4
Wireless Charging for Medical Implants Development of wireless charging solutions for implanted medical devices, focusing on safety and efficacy. 5
Neural Signal Monitoring and Stimulation Integration of wireless power systems for neural chips in animal models to address medical conditions. 5