Wireless power transfer is not exactly a new concept - the visionary scientist/engineer Nikola Tesla conceived of such technologies almost 100 years ago. In more recent times, Fulton Innovation has been making such a concept come true in nearby Ada, Michigan. Fulton Innovation gave quite a performance at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show as evidenced by their video demonstrating the wirelessly powered vehicle. Some videos relating to Fulton Innovation's eCoupled (TM) technology at the 2011 CES can be linked to here. This all relates to the transmission of electricity through a wireless medium. Not to be confused with WiFi, this technology is sometimes referred to as wireless energy transfer.
Imagine being able to lay your electronic device down on just about any flat surface (not necessarily a charging pad) and it is charged almost instantly. This could be your cell phone, your laptop or even your e-reader. Using the eCoupled (TM) technology it is just that easy. And, as their fun and interactive website demonstrates, you can recharge your devices just about anywhere. The technology seems to be adaptable to the home, the office, restaurants and even air travel. If you have access to your device and any of these eCoupled (TM) surfaces you should never have to worry about running low on battery power. In some cases, batteries might even be rendered obsolete.
The other thing about your new eCoupled (TM) charged device is that it can tell the difference between your cell phone and some unpowered object - like an oven mitt. Your surface will automatically recognize the device and charge it without a care. This is also called 'intelligent power' run by sensors in the recharging system. Intelligent power will also change the way you run your kitchen or galley - perhaps even your restaurant. By connecting your cookware with the same wireless technology, you can then interface it with a recipe database. In theory and practice, your food will literally cook itself and the cookware will remain cool to the touch.
Driving and parking will fundamentally change too. Your parking garage will automatically re-charge your vehicle and bill it to you through your payment ID and Bluetooth. Of course, all this will require operational and safety standards. Intercommunication between your devices and chargers will be covered under the Qi standard. Safety requirements will have to be met with government approval as well.
