Wireless Power Transmission: Theories and Applications

B Tech Seminar Report

Submitted in partial fulfilment for the award of the Degree of Bachelor of

Technology in Electrical and Electronics Engineering

By

LALAM SAI DATHU

(Roll No.B200290EE)

Under the guidance of

Dr. Sathiya S

Department of Electrical Engineering

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY CALICUT
NIT Campus P.O., Calicut - 673601, India
2023

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 CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the seminar entitled “Wireless power

Transmission” is a bonafide record of the work done by LALAM SAI
DATHU (Roll No.B200290EE), under my supervision and guidance,
in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the Degree of
Bachelor of Technology in Electrical & Electronic Engineering from
National Institute of Technology Calicut for the year 2023.

Dr. SATHIYA S
Ass. Professor
Dept. of Electrical Engineering

Place: Kozhikode
Date: 07-09-2023

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Contents

CHAPTER - 0

ABSTRACT

Wireless power transmission is a groundbreaking technology that has the

potential to redefine the way we transmit and access electrical energy.
Wireless power transmission is an updated fashion without using any
cables in the medium. A wireless transmission transfers power from the
generation station to the consumer without using halls and transmission
lines. Wireless Power Transfer( WPT) transmits electrical energy from a
power source to an electrical cargo across an air gap using induction
coils. These coils produce an electromagnetic field that sends energy
from a charging base station( transmitter) to a coil on a movable device.
(receiver) with complete galvanic insulation. The receiver coil takes
power from the electromagnetic field and converts it into electrical
power.
This seminar report comprehensively overviews wireless power
transmission's principles, applications, challenges, and prospects.
The historical context of wireless power transmission traces back to the
visionary work of Nikola Tesla, whose experiments laid the foundation
for this technology. Wireless power transmission encompasses various
techniques, including resonant inductive coupling, electromagnetic
radiation, and radio frequency energy harvesting. These methods
leverage electromagnetic fields to transmit energy across air gaps,
eliminating the need for physical wires.
This report delves into the diverse applications of wireless power
transmission across industries. Consumer electronics stand to benefit
from cordless charging solutions, enhancing convenience and
eliminating cable clutter. Electric vehicles could be charged dynamically
through road-embedded systems, extending their range and reducing the
need for large onboard batteries. Remote and off-grid areas could receive

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clean energy without requiring extensive infrastructure, addressing
energy poverty. Furthermore, medical implants, Internet of Things (IoT)
devices, and industrial automation could gain significant advantages
from wireless power transmission.
Despite its potential, wireless power transmission faces several
challenges that must be addressed for widespread adoption. Efficiency is
critical, as energy losses occur during transmission and conversion.
Ensuring the safety of human exposure to electromagnetic fields and
mitigating potential interference with existing electronic devices is
paramount. Standardising protocols and regulatory frameworks are
essential to ensure compatibility and security across different
implementations.
Looking ahead, ongoing research and development efforts are actively
addressing these challenges. Innovations in resonance-based systems,
beamforming techniques, and advanced materials enhance efficiency and
range. Strides in regulatory standards are made to establish guidelines
for safe deployment. Economic viability and public acceptance are
critical determinants of the technology's progression.
In conclusion, wireless power transmission holds immense promise in
transforming our energy landscape. This seminar report illuminates the
fundamental concepts, diverse applications, and persistent challenges
surrounding this technology. By fostering collaboration between
academia, industry, and regulatory bodies, we can pave the way for a
future where wireless power transmission contributes to a more
connected, efficient, and sustainable world.

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 CHAPTER-1

INTRODUCTION

Wireless communication has revolutionised how we connect and share

information, eliminating the need for physical wires and cables.
Similarly, wireless power transmission represents a groundbreaking
technology that enables the conveyance of energy over short and long
distances without the constraints of traditional wired systems. This
innovation has unlocked new possibilities for long-range
communications and energy distribution, making it possible to power
devices and machinery in locations where wiring would be impractical,
hazardous, or simply impossible.
Unlike wireless telecommunications, where the primary concern is often
signal strength and clarity amid background noise, wireless power
transmission focuses primarily on efficiency. The goal is to ensure that a
significant portion of the energy generated by a power source reaches its
intended electrical load. This efficiency is crucial for the system's
economic viability, ensuring that the energy losses during transmission
are minimised.
Wireless power transmission methods have evolved, with various
techniques developed for efficient energy transfer. Among the most
popular methods are direct induction and resonant magnetic induction.
These methods utilise electromagnetic fields to transmit power from a
source to a receiver, enabling wireless charging devices such as
smartphones and electric vehicles.
Additionally, cutting-edge technologies such as beam-of-light
transmission and radio waves, particularly microwaves, are being
explored for wireless power transmission applications. These
technologies offer the potential for even greater efficiency and

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longer-distance power delivery, opening up possibilities for remote
energy harvesting and transmission.

CHAPTER-2

Wireless power transmission

2.1. Advantages of wireless transmission:

● Convenience:
Wireless power transmission reduces the need for unorganised and
inconvenient wires. This makes it excellent for charging
cellphones and other portable devices when wires are not possible
or desirable.
● Safety:
Traditional cable power sources are safer than wireless power
transmission. Because an electromagnetic field transmits
electricity, electric shock or fire is not dangerous.
● Efficiency:
Wireless power transmission can be more efficient than traditional
wired, especially over long distances. This is because no energy is
lost in heat as the power travels through wires.
● Scalability:
A wireless power transmission can transmit Large amounts of
power across vast distances. As a result, it might be used to power
electric automobiles and other huge devices.
● Environmental Benefits:
● A wireless power transmission can transmit Large amounts of
power across vast distances. As a result, it might be used to power
electric automobiles and other huge devices.

Overall, wireless power transmission offers several advantages over

traditional wired power transmission. As the technology develops, it will
become more widely used in various applications.

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2.2. Here are some examples of where wireless power
transmission is used today:

● Wireless charging:
Wireless charging is becoming increasingly popular for
smartphones, tablets, and other portable devices. It is also being
used in some electric vehicles.
● Powering sensors:
Wireless power transmission is used to power sensors in various
applications, such as medical implants and industrial equipment.
● Solar power transmission:
Wireless transmission is being explored to transmit solar power
from satellites to Earth.
● Military applications:
Wireless power transmission is used in military applications, such
as powering drones and other uncrewed vehicles.

CHAPTER 3

THEORIES OF WPT

3.1. NEAR FIELD THEORY

Wireless power transmission methods at distances up to around

one-quarter of the wavelengths employed and comparable to, or a few
times, the diameter of the device are referred to as near field. Although
near-field energy is not inherently radiative, some radiative losses will
occur. Additionally, resistive losses are typically present. Although
electric (capacitive) energy transmission is less standard than magnetic
(inductive) energy transfer, it is nonetheless possible.

3.1.1 Electrical Conduction Principle

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The high atmosphere, which starts at roughly 35,000 feet (11,000
metres), is a natural medium that may be made conducting if the
breakdown voltage is reached and the component gas gets ionised.
Electrical currents induced in naturally occurring conductors, such as the
ground, lakes, and seas, can convey electrical energy. For instance, a
neon tube experiences ionisation when a high voltage is put across it,
causing a current to flow between the two internal electrodes. This
method might be utilised to create vertical ionised channels in the air
right above the transmitter-receiver stations in a wireless energy
transmission system. The laser, electroshock weapon, virtual lightning
rods, and proposals for disabling vehicles all employ the same principle.
As early as 1904, Nikola Tesla envisaged a worldwide system for "the
transport of electrical energy without wires". "The earth has a radius of
4,000 miles. There is an atmosphere around this conducting earth. Only
a little insulating layer lies between the conducting atmosphere and the
conducting earth. The ground and the atmosphere above it are both
conductors. You immediately see that if you build up potential
differences in one place, you will produce comparable potential
oscillations in the medium. But since the distance from the earth's
surface to the conducting atmosphere is so tiny compared to, say, the
receiver's location at 4,000 miles away. The energy cannot follow this
curve and arrive there instead but instead will be converted into
conduction currents that will instead travel like currents over a wire with
a return. Conduction will transport the energy and recover it in the
circuit rather than a beam that travels along this curve and is reflected
and absorbed.
Induction Principle: The simplest example of wireless energy
transmission is the operation of an electrical transformer. A
transformer's primary and secondary circuits are not electrically coupled.
Through a technique called mutual induction, electromagnetic coupling
is used to transmit energy. Examples of how this idea might be applied
include transformers on the street and mobile phone battery chargers.

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This method also powers many electric toothbrushes and induction
stoves.

Fig 3.1 Mobile Charging through Wireless Power Transmission

3.1.2 Electrostatic Induction Principle

The principle of electrostatic induction plays a crucial role in wireless

energy transmission through high-frequency alternating current potential
differences. This phenomenon, often called the "Tesla effect," relies on
creating an electric field gradient or differential capacitance between two
elevated electrodes positioned over a conducting ground plane. This
differential capacitance forms the foundation for capacitive coupling, a
process through which energy can be efficiently transferred.
In this innovative approach, energy is not transmitted through traditional
electrical conductors but through electrostatic forces acting via natural
media. This involves the dynamic interaction of electric fields between
the transmitting and receiving nodes. The alternating current generates A
changing magnetic flux as the electric field changes. This changing
magnetic flux, in turn, induces electric currents in a conductor near the
electric field. The receiving device can then harness this induced current
to power various applications, reminiscent of the pioneering work of
Nikola Tesla with his wireless lighting experiments.
What sets the "Tesla effect" apart from conventional electrical
transmission is its ability to enable the flow of electrical energy across

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space and matter without the need for physical wires or direct contact.
This revolutionary concept opens up exciting possibilities for wirelessly
powering devices and systems, heralding a new era of energy
transmission that extends beyond the confines of traditional electrical
conductors. By harnessing the principles of electrostatic induction and
capacitive coupling, we can envision a future where energy is
transmitted seamlessly and efficiently across vast distances, unlocking a
world of innovative applications and technological advancements.

Fig 3.2 Electrostatic Induction Principle

3.1.3 Electro-dynamic Induction Principle

The electro-dynamic induction principle is pivotal in transmitting

electrical energy, particularly at frequencies up to the mid-kilohertz
range. This principle is most notably employed in transformers, devices
designed to facilitate the wireless transfer of electrical energy from one
circuit to another. At the core of this process lies the remarkable concept
of electromagnetic induction.
In a typical transformer setup, a primary coil generates a time-varying
magnetic flux due to alternating current passing through it. This
fluctuating magnetic field then interacts with a secondary coil placed
nearby, inducing a voltage in the secondary coil. What sets this
technology apart is that the primary and secondary coils are not
physically connected, making it a wireless method of energy transfer.

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Transformers are celebrated for their high efficiency in energy
transmission. However, they have a notable limitation – their
effectiveness significantly diminishes when the distance between the
coils exceeds a few times the size of the coils themselves. This close coil
spacing requirement can be a limiting factor in some applications.
The concept of resonance is fundamental to many wireless energy
transfer techniques. Resonance refers to the intrinsic tendency of certain
physical systems to oscillate with maximum amplitudes at specific
frequencies. This resonance phenomenon is central to the physics
underlying wireless power transmission.
Consider the analogy of 100 glasses of wine, each filled to a different
level, to illustrate the concept of resonance at various frequencies. If an
electric guitar player were to produce a very distinct tone, only the glass
that resonates precisely at that frequency would respond to the
stimulation. The other glasses would remain unaffected. This selective
response illustrates the principle of resonance – only when the excitation
frequency matches the natural resonance frequency of a system can
energy transfer occur efficiently.
Similarly, when tuning a radio, we adjust the length of the
electromagnetic antenna to resonate with the desired frequency of the
station we wish to listen to. This synchronisation allows the antenna to
efficiently capture and convert electromagnetic waves into electrical
signals, demonstrating the practical application of resonance in everyday
technology.

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 Fig 3.3 Electro-Dynamic Induction Principle
3.2 FAR-FIELD THEORY

Far-field technologies excel in achieving extended transmission ranges,

often spanning multiple kilometres. This becomes particularly feasible
when the distance significantly surpasses the dimensions of the
transmitting device. To accomplish this, electromagnetic radiation in the
far field can be carefully shaped to match the geometry of the receiving
area. This can be achieved using high-directivity antennas or
precision-focused laser beams.
By employing radio waves and optical devices, it becomes possible to
deliver nearly all radiated power over substantial distances. The essential
advantage of these far-field technologies lies in their ability to efficiently
direct electromagnetic energy to specific target locations, even when
those locations are pretty distant.
However, it's important to note that there are physical limitations.
Diffraction, for example, restricts the maximum directivity an antenna
can attain. Despite this limitation, far-field technologies have
revolutionised long-range wireless communications and energy
transmission, enabling applications ranging from high-speed internet
connections to remote power delivery, thus transforming how we
connect and power our world.
3.2.1 Microwave Power Transmission

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Electricity must be converted into an appropriate energy form before it
can be transported. This has to be a form that can move through air for
wireless transmission. This capability exists for microwave frequencies.
Older use covers lower frequencies. The microwave spectrum is the
electromagnetic spectrum with frequencies between 1 and 1000 GHz.
The 1 to 40 GHz band covers the majority of applications.
The following three components are necessary for a comprehensive
microwave transmission system:
● Electrical Power to Microwave Power Conversion
● Absorption antenna that captures the waves
● (Re)Conversion to electrical power
The parts comprise a microwave source, a transmitting antenna, and a
receiving antenna. Electron tubes or solid-state components with
electronics to regulate power output make up the microwave source. The
most common varieties are the parabolic dish, microstrip patch, and
slotted waveguide antenna. The slotted waveguide antenna is ideal for
power transmission due to its high efficiency (>95%) and excellent
power handling capability.

Fig 3.4 Microwave, Transmitter and Retenna

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Rectenna is the name given to the receiving and converting units
together. Rectennas are rectifying antennas that transform microwave
radiation directly into direct current (DC) power. This antenna uses a
network of dipoles and diodes to capture microwave energy from a
transmitter and transform it into electrical power. Its elements are often
organised in a multi-element phased array with a mesh pattern reflector
element to make it directed. Microwaves have long wavelengths and
moderate amounts of diffraction across long distances, which is one of
its drawbacks. According to the Rayleigh criteria, any beam must spread
(microwave or laser), weaken, and dissipate over distance. The narrower
the beam and the less it will spread as a distance function, the greater the
transmitter antenna or laser aperture (and vice versa). The system,
therefore, needs substantial transmitters and receivers. The microwave
beam's power density is typically in the range of 100 W/m m. This was
done for safety considerations, even though it is very modest compared
to the power density of solar radiation on Earth (1000 W/m*m).

Fig 3.5 Microwave wireless energy transfer system

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 Fig 3.6 Test Layout of Microwave Wireless Energy Transmission System

Block Description

The system consists of a transmitter and a receiver, "1 Pad, 1 Plug,

Various Devices." The transmitter is a platform where electricity is
transferred to the devices via one socket. It may concurrently power
many devices whose receiver modules are positioned around the surface
protuberance of the pad. Whatever their location or orientation, the
gadgets are electrically charged and plugged into a standard adaptor.
Differently, the receiver allows an electrical device to receive charge
from the transmitter and is incorporated into gadgets like mobile phones
or PDAs. As a result, magnetic fields are produced by electrical current,
and vice versa. The fact that magnetic fields may move across space is
used in this technique. The power is wirelessly sent to the receiver by an
electrical current in the base station, which generates a magnetic field
that transforms the power back into an electrical current. This coupling
offers a safe charging environment because it is electrically insulated
from the powered transmitter and users.

CHAPTER - 4

APPLICATIONS OF WIRELESS POWER

TRANSMISSION

4.1 Battery Charging Of Car

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Electron Israel Company proposes this. It proposed an innovative way to
charge electric vehicles. The new technology option will be placed
directly on the road on a kilometre stretch between Milan and Brescia in
Italy. With its help, charging electric cars without connecting to charging
stations during parking or riding will be possible. Electrical vehicle
charging highways run through a copper coil system embedded in
asphalt. The energy from these coils is transferred to the vehicle's
batteries through magnetic induction.

Fig 4.1 Battery Charging of a Car

4.2 Wireless Power Transmission by Emrod Startup

Emrod, a New Zealand startup, has come closest to fulfilling Nicholas

Tesla's dream. It began with the idea of a cheap and reliable way to
provide electricity that would bypass complicated electrical network
infrastructure. They developed a prototype device for wireless power
transmission. The system uses a transmitting antenna, a series of relays
and a receiving rectenna. Although such several devices seem
impressive, each of them is, in fact, square mounted on a pole. The
spectrum of waves used in these generators intersects with frequencies.
The energy passes directly between specific points. A special protector

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also turns off the energy transmission when it detects any object
approaching.

Fig 4.2 Wireless Power Transmission by Emrod Startup

4.3 Medical Devices

Wireless power can charge implantable medical devices like

pacemakers, insulin pumps, or neurostimulators, reducing invasive
surgeries to replace batteries.

4.3.1 Tissue Regeneration

Emerging therapies in tissue regeneration and electroceuticals may
involve implanted devices that stimulate tissue growth or modulate nerve
signals. Wireless power can enable these devices to operate for extended
periods within the body.

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 Fig 4.3 Implanted Biomedical Devices
4.3.2 Wearable Medical Devices
Wearable medical devices like smartwatches with health monitoring
features can benefit from wireless power transmission. It ensures these
devices have continuous power for tracking vital signs, physical activity,
and health metrics.

Fig 4.4 Wearable Medical Devices

CHAPTER - 5

FUTURE WITH WIRELESS POWER TRANSMISSION

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Tesla predicted that there would be "a great many uses of electricity
shortly. We can remove fog by using electric force and strong,
penetrating beams. The installation of wireless plants will be done to
illuminate the waters. Soon, visual transmission using standard
telegraphic techniques will be possible. A voice-activated electronic
typewriter will be a valued novelty, and We'll have dust absorbers, water,
air, food, garment sterilisers, and smoke annihilators. People will travel
to cities to rest and recover because catching diseases there will be
nearly impossible."
In the macroscopic world, the system may supply energy to electric
buses on a highway or robots or computers in a manufacturing room (the
source-cavity in this scenario would be a "pipe" flowing above the
roadway) without worrying too much about the relative alignment
between the sources and the devices in the microscopic world. Where
much smaller wavelengths would be used, and more minor powers are
needed, it could be used to implement optical inter- connects for CMOS
electronics or to transfer energy to autonomous nano-objects (like
MEMS or nano-robots).

CHAPTER - 6

CONCLUSION

To further the development of the technology, extensive study has been

done on the technical indices and test procedures for microwave wireless
energy transfer systems. This study involved the examination of the
topology of these systems, developing test and assessment procedures,
and producing technical indicators of important system performance
factors. Even though several noteworthy advancements have been made,
other areas still require additional study. Research on signal generators,
power amplifiers, transceiver antennae, and other technologies is
necessary to improve the system's core components' conversion
efficiency and the system's miniaturisation, electromagnetic

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compatibility, lightness and other types of performance. The evaluation
index method should be improved as a testing framework for the entire
microwave wireless energy transmission system chain.

References:

1. Tesla, N. "Apparatus for transmitting electrical energy." U.S. patent

number 1,119,732, issued in December 1914.
2. Fernandez, J. M. and Borras, J. A. "Contactless battery charger with
wireless control link." U.S. patent number 6,184,651, issued in February
2001.
3. Ka-Lai, L., Hay, J. W. and Beart, P. G. W. "Contact-less power
transfer." The U.S. Patent number 7,042,196 was issued in May 2006.
(SplashPower Ltd., www.splashpower.com)
4. Esser, A. and Skudelny, H.-C. "A new approach to power supplies for
robots." IEEE Trans. on industry applications 27,872 (1991).
5. Hirai, J., Kim, T.-W. and Kawamura, A. "Wireless transmission of
power and information and information for cableless linear motor drive."
IEEE Trans. on power electronics 15, 21 (2000).
6. www.witricity.com
7.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJ0a9Yz8QS0&t=205s&ab_chann
el=InnovativeTechs

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