Energous WattUp: the router charging devices from a distance
WattUp is a technology that can recharge a compatible device from a distance, delivering up to a maximum of 4W. Although it is available in time on a discrete list of mobile devices, the technology of wireless charging electromagnetic induction is not yet widespread in large scale. This is an innovation introduced by Palm in the CES 2009, very interesting on paper but which, to date, still requires essential the use of a pad on which to rest the device to be charged. Limitation that wants to eliminate Energous, with its WattUp.
WattUp in a nutshell is a technology that allows you to charge a remote compatible device, be it, a smartphone or a wearable, up to a maximum of 15 feet away (equivalent to just over 4 feet). The system mixes the use of various ” old ” technologies, including radio frequency and Bluetooth, and other new pending patent grant. We explain briefly the operation of the new properties Energous.
The transmitter detects the devices within range using Bluetooth LE and carried out the pairing, begins sending radio signals on the same frequencies of Wi-Fi. These are absorbed and converted to DC by a small chip on the device, an operation that can be monitored and managed also by software. Additionally, the transmitters can be integrated into everyday appliances, televisions, speakers, but also in stand-alone products that Energous called ” energy router “.
The proprietary technology Energous is capable of delivering up to 4W to a maximum of 1.5 meters, which become 1W 2W to 3 meters and a little more than 4.6 meters. With these powers, WattUp may be able to enable the wireless charging of small devices such as smartphones and smartwatch. The concept at its base is certainly not new: it is a proprietary implementation of the ” rectification of alternating current. ”
Energous argues that the peculiarity of its technology is inherent in the transmitters: the chips used to make it possible to have an efficiency of 70%, only slightly lower than the induction charging devices commonly used today. Before spreading into the mass market the company needs the collaboration with a strong brand: Energous has already started contacting various third-party manufacturers, with the goal of bringing the homes WattUp end user worldwide.
The technology has been shown to function at CES in Las Vegas with an interface made ad-hoc (currently there are naturally compatible devices). More information here, on the official website.
