F3: Cutting the last wire — Advances in wireless power

Abstract

In recent years the availability of products for wireless charging of mobile devices has increased rapidly. The introduction of the Qi standard for wireless power transfer has marked the beginning of what could be a revolution in the way we charge our smartphones and tablets. Wireless power transfer is considered for use in applications ranging from biomedicai implants that require a couple of milliwatts to electrical vehicles that require kiloWatts. The vision of a future where we can conveniently, efficiently and safely charge our devices and vehicles anywhere without having to drag adapters and cables with us is gradually starting to become more realistic. This forum aims to give an overview of the state-of-the art in wireless power transfer. The fundamentals of different wireless power transfer techniques will be discussed, including not only inductive and resonant magnetic, but also capacitive power transfer and RF energy harvesting.