Inductive charging (also known as wireless charging or cordless charging) uses

an electromagnetic field to transfer energy between two objects through electromagnetic induction.
This is usually done with a charging station. Energy is sent through an inductive coupling to an
electrical device, which can then use that energy to charge batteries or run the device.
Induction chargers use an induction coil to create an alternating electromagnetic field from within a
charging base, and a second induction coil in the portable device takes power from the
electromagnetic field and converts it back into electric current to charge the battery. The two
induction coils in proximity combine to form an electrical transformer.[1][2] Greater distances between
sender and receiver coils can be achieved when the inductive charging system uses resonant
inductive coupling.
Recent improvements to this resonant system include using a movable transmission coil (i.e.
mounted on an elevating platform or arm) and the use of other materials for the receiver coil made
of silver plated copper or sometimes aluminium to minimize weight and decrease resistance due to
the skin effect.

Application Areas[edit]
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Applications of inductive charging can be divided into to two broad categories: Low power and high
power:

 Low power applications are generally supportive of small consumer electronic devices such as
cell phones, handheld devices, some computers, and similar devices which normally charge at
power levels below 100 watts.
 High power inductive charging generally refers to inductive charging of batteries at power levels
above 1 kilowatt. The most prominent application area for high power inductive charging is in
support of electric vehicles, where inductive charging provides an automated and cordless
alternative to plug-in charging. Power levels of these devices can range from approximately 1
kilowatt to 300 kilowatts or higher. All high power inductive charging systems utilize resonated
primary and secondary coils.

Advantages[edit]
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 Protected connections – No corrosion when the electronics are all enclosed, away from water or
oxygen in the atmosphere. Less risk of electrical faults such as short circuit due to insulation
failure, especially where connections are made or broken frequently.
 Low infection risk – For embedded medical devices, transmission of power via a magnetic field
passing through the skin avoids the infection risks associated with wires penetrating the skin.
 Durability – Without the need to constantly plug and unplug the device, there is significantly less
wear and tear on the socket of the device and the attaching cable.
 Increased convenience and aesthetic quality – No need for cables.
 Automated high power inductive charging of electric vehicles allows for more frequent charging
events and consequential driving range extension.
 Inductive charging systems can be operated automatically without dependence on people to
plug and unplug. This results in higher reliability.
 Autonomous driving technology, when applied to electric vehicles, depends on autonomous
electric charging—automatic operation of inductive charging solves this problem.
 Inductive charging of electric vehicles at high power levels enables charging of electric vehicles
while in motion (also known as dynamic charging).

Disadvantages[edit]
The following disadvantages have been noted for low power (i.e., less than 100 watts) inductive
charging devices. These disadvantages may not be applicable to high power (i.e., greater than 5
kilowatts) electric vehicle inductive charging systems.

 Slower charging – Due to the lower efficiency, devices take longer to charge when supplied
power is the same amount.
 More expensive – Inductive charging also requires drive electronics and coils in both device and
charger, increasing the complexity and cost of manufacturing.[1][2]
 Inconvenience - When a mobile device is connected to a cable, it can be moved around (albeit
in a limited range) and operated while charging. In most implementations of inductive charging,
the mobile device must be left on a pad to charge, and thus can't be moved around or easily
operated while charging.
Newer approaches reduce transfer losses through the use of ultra thin coils, higher frequencies, and
optimized drive electronics. This results in more efficient and compact chargers and receivers,
facilitating their integration into mobile devices or batteries with minimal changes required.[3][4] These
technologies provide charging times comparable to wired approaches, and they are rapidly finding
their way into mobile devices.
For example, the Magne Charge vehicle recharger system employs high-frequency induction to
deliver high power at an efficiency of 86% (6.6 kW power delivery from a 7.68 kW power draw).[5]

Misconceptions[edit]
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 Efficiency: While low power inductive charging technology can be considerably less efficient in
power transfer than comparable power conductive systems, this is generally not true for high
power inductive chargers. High power inductive chargers with power transfer efficiencies well in
excess of 90% are in commercial use today for electric vehicle charging. By comparison, most
SAE J-1772 and CHAdeMO plug-in chargers operate with efficiencies ranging from 88% to 94%.
In inductive charging, as power levels tend to increase, efficiencies tend to increase as well. It is
a misconception that inductive charging technology loses energy due to radiative losses as
energy passes through the air gap.
 Cost: The cost of high power inductive charging systems is comparable to plug in charging
systems of the same power level. The power electronic subcomponents required to fabricate
high power inductive chargers are similar to those required in plug-in chargers, with some parts
that are not required (such as heavy insulted cables and heavy duty plugs) are offset by the coil
sets that are used in inductive chargers. However, the total cost of ownership of high power
inductive chargers is expected to be lower than comparable power plug-in chargers due to the
elimination of hand-held cables and plugs, reduced wear and tear, and reduced susceptibility to
vandalism. The cost of installation of inductive electric vehicle chargers is comparable to plug in
chargers.

Standards[edit]
 Magne Charge, a largely obsolete inductive charging system, also known as J1773, used to
charge battery electric vehicles (BEV) formerly made by General Motors.
 Qi, an interface standard developed by the Wireless Power Consortium for inductive electrical
power transfer. At the time of July 2017, it is the most famous standard in the world, more than
200 million devices supporting this interface.
 AirFuel Alliance:
 In January 2012, the IEEE announced the initiation of the Power Matters Alliance (PMA)
under the IEEE Standards Association (IEEE-SA) Industry Connections. The alliance is
formed to publish set of standards for inductive power that are safe and energy efficient, and
have smart power management. The PMA will also focus on the creation of an inductive
power ecosystem[6]
 Rezence was an interface standard developed by the Alliance for Wireless Power (A4WP).
 A4WP and PMA merged into the AirFuel Alliance in 2015.

Examples[edit]
Portable electronics and devices[edit]
 Oral-B rechargeable toothbrushes by the Braun company have used inductive charging since
the early 1990s.
 At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January 2007, Visteon unveiled their inductive
charging system for in vehicle use that could charge only specially made cell phones to MP3
players with compatible receivers.[7]
 April 28, 2009: An Energizer inductive charging station for the Wii remote was reported on IGN.[8]

 At CES in January 2009, Palm, Inc. announced their new Pre smartphone would be available
with an optional inductive charger accessory, the "Touchstone". The charger came with a
required special backplate that became standard on the subsequent Pre Plus model announced
at CES 2010. This was also featured on later Pixi, Pixi Plus, and Veer 4G smartphones. Upon
launch in 2011, the ill-fated HP Touchpad tablet (after HP's acquisition of Palm Inc.) had a built
in touchstone coil that doubled as an antenna for their NFC-like Touch to Share feature .[3][9][10]

 March 15, 2013 Samsung launched the Samsung Galaxy S4, which supports inductive charging
with an accessory back.
 July 26, 2013 Google and ASUS launched the Nexus 7 2013 Edition with integrated inductive
charging.
 September 9, 2014 Apple announced Apple Watch (released on April 24, 2015), which uses
wireless inductive charging.
 September 12, 2017 Apple announced the AirPower wireless charging mat. It is capable of
charging an iPhone, an Apple Watch and AirPods simultaneously.
Qi devices

 Nokia launched two smartphones (the Lumia 820 and Lumia 920) on 5 September 2012, which
feature Qi inductive charging.[11]

 Google and LG launched the Nexus 4 in October 2012 which supports inductive charging using
the Qi standard.
 Motorola Mobility launched their Droid 3 and Droid 4, both optionally support the Qi standard.
 On November 21, 2012 HTC launched the Droid DNA, which also supports the Qi standard.
 October 31, 2013 Google and LG launched the Nexus 5, which supports inductive charging
with Qi.
 April 14, 2014 Samsung made the Galaxy s5 that supports Qi wireless charging with either a
wireless charging back or receiver.
 November 20, 2015 Microsoft launched the Lumia 950 XL and Lumia 950 which support
charging with the Qi standard.
 February 22, 2016 Samsung electronic announces the new flagship S7 & S7 Edge which are
using interface that is almost the same as Qi.
 September 12, 2017 Apple announced that the iPhone 8 and iPhone X would feature
wireless Qi standard charging.
Dual standard

 March 3, 2015 Samsung announced the new flagships S6 & S6 Edge with wireless inductive
charging through both Qi and PMA compatible chargers.
 November 6, 2015 BlackBerry released the new flagship BlackBerry Priv, the first BlackBerry
phone to support wireless inductive charging through both Qi and PMA compatible chargers.
Research and other[edit]
 Transcutaneous Energy Transfer (TET) systems in artificial hearts and other surgically implanted
devices.
 In 2006, researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology reported that they had
discovered an efficient way to transfer power between coils separated by a few meters. The
team, led by Marin Soljačić, theorized that they could extend the distance between the coils by
adding resonance to the equation. The MIT inductive power project, called WiTricity, uses a
curved coil and capacitive plates.[12][13]

 In 2012 a Russian private museum Grand Maket Rossiya opened featuring inductive charging
on their model car exhibits.

WIRELESS CHARGING
Wireless Charging provides a convenient, safe, and reliable way to charge and power
millions of electrical devices at home, in the workplace and in industry.

By eliminating the use of physical connectors and cables, wireless charging provides a
number of efficiency, cost and safety advantages over the traditional charging cable.

From smartphones, to hand-held industrial devices and heavy-duty equipment

applications, wireless power maintains safe, continuous, and reliable transfer of power to
ensure all varieties of devices and equipment are charged and ready to go at a moment’s
notice.

QUICK LINKS:

 What is wireless charging?

 How does wireless charging work? (+ infographic)
 What is ‘Resonant’ wireless charging?
 The future of wireless charging
 Current and future applications of Wireless Charging
 Wireless charging for Smartphones & Tablets
 Wireless charging for Wearables
 Wireless charging for AA Battery Powered Devices
 Wireless charging for commercial applications
 Medical Devices & Equipment
 Vehicles & Transport
 FAQ’s

WHAT IS WIRELESS CHARGING?

Essentially wireless charging (a.k.a wireless power transfer or charging by induction) uses
electromagnetic fields to safely transfer power from a transmitting source to a receiving
device for the purposes of wirelessly charging (or recharging) a battery. As the name
suggests, it does so without the use of a physical connection.

HOW DOES WIRELESS CHARGING WORK?

Wireless charging is based on the principle of magnetic resonance, or Inductive Power
Transfer (IPT). This is the process of transferring an electrical current between two objects
through the use of coils to induce an electromagnetic field.

The diagram below simplifies the process of wireless charging and power transfer into 5 key
steps.
TRANSCRIPT OF WIRELESS CHARGING STEPS

 Mains voltage is converted into high frequency alternating current (AC).

 The alternating current (AC) is sent to the transmitter coil by the transmitter circuit. The
alternating current then induces a time varying magnetic field in the transmitter coil.
 Alternating current flowing within the transmitter coil induces a magnetic field which extends to
the receiver coil (when within a specified distance).
 The magnetic field generates current within the receiver coil of the device. The process whereby
energy is transmitted between the transmitter and receiver coil is also referred to as magnetic or
resonant coupling and is achieved by both coils resonating at the same frequency.
 Current flowing within the receiver coil is converted into direct current (DC) by the receiver
circuit, which can then be used to wirelessly charge the battery.

It’s through this process that power is safely transferred over an air gap. As well as any non -
metal object that might exist between the coils. Such as wood, plastic or granite.

WHAT IS ‘RESONANT’ WIRELESS CHARGING?

You will often hear people talk about inductive and resonant technology in regards to
wireless power. From a technical point of view, they are essentially one in the
same. Inductive power transfer (as the overriding principle) uses resonance in order to
achieve coupling of the transmitter and recover coil – achieved when the transmitter and
receiver coils both oscillate – or ‘resonate’ – at the same frequency. This resonant
frequency refers to the frequency at which an object naturally vibrates or rings. This is most
commonly seen in the way a tuning fork can cause another to vibrate when both are tuned to
the same pitch.

However in recent times, the term ‘resonant’ has taken on a slightly different
meaning. What is now commonly referred to as Resonant wireless charging, is seen as an
advancement on inductive capabilities in that it allows a number of advantages in relation to
performance and convenience.

Some of the key advantages include:

 Greater spatial freedom: This refers to the ability to achieve coupling/power transfer with
greater mis-alignment for the receiver and transmitter coil along the x, y and z axis. In a real-life
scenario, this means not having to precisely align your smartphone or device on top of the
transmitter in order for it to begin charging.
 Charging multiple devices simultaneously: Resonance promises the ability to charging more
than one device at a time. How this is achieved from a technical point of view will depend on
the coil geometry of the respective system, but nonetheless it provides an added convenience for
larger transmitter surfaces such as table tops or work benches.
 Charging speeds: Charging speeds for devices will continue to be a major factor in the
adoption of wireless charging. Charging by induction solutions currently produce slower charge
times compared to a wired charger. In the future, resonant promises improved efficiency for
power transfer between the transmitter and receiver coils, which in turn increase the rate at
which power is delivered to the battery for re-charging.
For a more in-depth look into the advantages of resonant wireless charging and a discussion
on the current options being developed in the marketplace – check out our blog from
2015: What’s the big deal about Resonant?

THE FUTURE OF WIRELESS CHARGING

No matter the device, industry, or application, the removal of the physical connection
required for powering or charging devices delivers a number of benefits over traditional
cable connectors – some of which aren’t immediately obvious.

The video below takes a glimpse into the future and examines just some of the possible
applications using wireless power.
View and comment on this video on YouTube

CURRENT AND FUTURE APPLICATIONS FOR

WIRELESS CHARGING
WIRELESS CHARGING FOR SMARTPHONES & TABLETS

Perhaps the most well known application of wireless charging is for smartphones.

In recent years, the number of phone manufacturers who have offered wireless charging
capabilities have steadily grown, and for even those brands which do not have wireless
charging functionality, you can acquire a myriad of external charging cases and sleeves
which can enable wireless charging of these devices.

The current technology enables consistent, safe charging of single devices when placed
accurately on a wireless charging pad – characteristic of ‘charging by induction‘
systems. The leading wireless standard worldwide for this technology is Qi, which is
developed by the Wireless Power Consortium and is used by over 900 products worldwide.
As advancements continue to be made, wireless charging will likely become more
ubiquitous and convenient. The development of resonant capabilities will continue to
increase the appeal of wireless charging for consumers, while integrated transmitters into
tables and bench tops will make it easier than ever to recharge our phones.

PowerbyProxi doesn’t manufacture wireless charging pads, wireless smartphone chargers,

or integrated receiver solutions like sleeves and cases for public purchase. Instead our focus
is on developing the next generation of solutions for wireless charging for smartphones
including greater capability for free placement of devices, foreign object detection and
multi-device charging.

Customers have the opportunity to purchase our development kit and patent licenses to
develop and manufacture their own product. For more information, check out our Proxi-2D
EVK page.

WIRELESS CHARGING FOR WEARABLES

There is no question that wearable technology is becoming increasingly integrated and

available in our daily lives.

The size and form factor of such devices are integral to making them more ubiquitous and
convenient from a consumer perspective. At the same time, the miniaturised nature of
wearables provide unique challenges around recharging and ensuring power is suppl ied in a
manner that is equally as convenient as the device itself.

Wireless power is potential solution for this problem by removing the requirement for
cables and h being connected directly to the device itself.

PowerbyProxi began investigating several means to provide a convenient, cable free

solution for recharging multiple wearable devices simultaneously as part of our Proxi-
3D project – established within our Proxi Labs innovation centre.
WIRELESS CHARGING FOR AA BATTERY POWERED DEVICES
Millions of everyday electronic devices – including video game controllers, remotes,
torches, toys etc, use AA batteries. However whenever these batteries run out of charge, the
means to replace or recharge them, isn’t exactly convenient. Non-rechargeable batteries
cost a lot to continually replace, and are a significant biological hazard when disposed
of. Rechargeable AA batteries however, can be time consuming and a hassle to recharge,
while being that much more expensive.

Wireless power technology offers another solution through in-device charging, whereby AA
batteries are fitted with a wireless receiver which can recharge the battery when placed
inside a transmitter device. The beauty of this solution is that the battery can be recharged
without being removed from the device, so that it never needs to be replaced. PowerbyProxi
prototyped a solution for AA batteries as part of our Proxi Labs innovation centre which
allowed for safe wireless charging of numerous types of devices using specially designed
AA batteries.

WIRELESS CHARGING FOR

COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS
The advantages of wireless charging is not only restricted to consumer device
applications. Wireless charging offers real benefits in terms of productivity, efficiency and
safety for industrial applications where cables and connectors can become unreliable,
dangerous or incur high maintenance costs.

BENEFITS OF WIRELESS CHARGING:

 Reduced cost associated with maintaining mechanical connectors. For example: Rotating
electrical connectors like Slip Rings
 Safe powering or charging devices that need to remain sterile or hermetically sealed (waterproof)
 Prevent corrosion due to elements such as oxygen and water
 Eliminate sparks and debris associated with wired contacts

PowerbyProxi have been pioneering the application of inductive power for industrial
applications since 2007. Enabling equipment suppliers to deliver mission-critical wireless
power systems in wet, dirty and moving environments the world over.

With a range of wireless power transfer solutions for different power requirements, we are
able to deliver unique advantages for the transmission of power for a range of applications,
some of which are highlighted below:

MEDICAL DEVICES & EQUIPMENT

WIRELESS CHARGING OF MEDICAL DEVICES & EQUIPMENT

Wireless charging has a vital role to play in the future of medicine and medical care.

Nowadays, even the most basic of medical procedures requiresa range of advanced medical
equipment. Equipment that’s powered largely via battery packs or mains power
supplies. Wireless power provides real benefit in such sterile and high traffic environments
where traditional connectors become not only source of contamination, but are also a
physical hazard as room configurations are constantly changing.

VEHICLES & TRANSPORT

WIRELESS CHARGING OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Wireless charging of electric vehicles continue to be one of the most researched areas of
wireless power transfer. By reducing the reliance on fossil fuels, electric vehicles provide a
sustainable and environmentally safe means for fuelling our vehicles well into the future.

However today’s electric cars are limited to an average travel distance of between just 10
and 40 miles before they require charging. Initiating a convoluted charging process that
requires access to a charging point, charging cables, and a multiple-hour wait before the
vehicle is sufficiently charged.

With the introduction of wireless charging, the charging experience is set to become a
seamless one. Allowing for the convenient charging of electric cars whether parked or on
the move.

It won’t be long before this dream becomes a reality. In fact, a number of car manufact urers
are already putting test vehicles through their paces. Including the Formula E’s wirelessly
chargeable safety car.

This inclusion of wireless charging capabilities won’t just drive an increased adoption of
electric vehicles. It will also play a crucial role in supporting the environmental
sustainability of future transport. Helping to rid the environment of harmful f ossil fuels,
cutting down on air pollution emissions and providing not just a more convenient future, but
a healthier one too.

Wireless charging for electric vehicles could be carried out in a number of ways, including:

 Parking Spots & Charging Pads

Like our smartphones and tablets, charging pads will provide one of the most convenient
 methods of charging electric vehicles. With these pads built into specially designed parking
spots, you’ll be able to charge your car while you’re grabbing your shopping or catching a
movie.
 Electrically Charged Highways Of The Future
In time, you may not even need to stop to charge your electric car. Highway England is just one
body currently testing the viability of charging lanes that charge vehicles while they’re driving.
With the charging devices built into the very asphalt itself.

FAQ’S

IS THERE A WIRELESS CHARGING STANDARD?

An industry standard is required to ensure interoperability between transmitters and
receivers made by different manufacturers. There are currently two key groups looking to
put forward a specification for wireless charging: the Wireless Power Consortium
(WPC) and the Airfuel Alliance.

Of these two, the Wireless Power Consortium is the leading standard for wireless charging
through its Qi standard. Qi (pronounced ‘chee’) is the most widely used and commercially
available wireless charging standard (used by over 200 companies). The Qi wireless
charging and power standard ensures that any device carrying its logo will work, in turn,
with any charging surface that also carries the logo, regardless of brand or manufacturer.

This cross-compatibility allows manufacturers like PowerByProxi complete design freedom,

as the Qi standard ensures that wireless charging interoperability is guaranteed from
conception through to completion. This page on wireless power standards provides further
information.
WHY DO WE NEED A STANDARD & WHAT WILL IT GOVERN?

Industry standards are crucial to ensuring interoperability between transmitters and

receivers produced by different manufacturers. Once a specification emerges as the standard
for the industry, then manufacturers have a blueprint from which to work to create wireless
charging technology in the future, thus ensuring that no matter what the device, it can be
charged on any charging pad or transmitter.
https://powerbyproxi.com/wireless-charging/

http://www.androidauthority.com/wireless-charging-qi-pad-technology-580015/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inductive_charging