California-based company GuRu Wireless has recently developed and showcased a scalable and modular wireless power transfer system that is capable of delivering power to a high-power device up to several kilowatts, such as a drone, from up to 30 feet away (a little over 9 meters). They also mention that the system can power low-power devices, like LEDs and consumer electronics, over distances of several kilometers. It’s quite an extension to the GuRu’s desk-range wireless power evaluation kit we covered in 2020.
The system uses 24 GHz high-frequency millimeter-wave radio signals to deliver energy over long distances without needing batteries or tethered systems. GuRu’s system uses a phased array transmitter with proprietary RFICs, to precisely deliver power to the receiver called the Recovery Unit (RU).
In a recent demonstration video, GuRu Wireless showcased their wireless power transfer system by powering a drone from 30 feet away, operating it continuously for 96 hours without recharging. For the demo, the company attached a recovery unit (receiver) to the drone, and a customized transmitter was specifically designed to deliver the required power. GuRu explains that their product utilizes proprietary, custom-designed advanced millimeter-wave ICs with an integrated design, intelligent algorithms, and custom software to transfer power directly and efficiently to the drone. They also mention that the transmitter uses beam shaping and smart lensing technologies to focus and concentrate RF energy, enabling precise steering and tracking of multiple devices.
The 24GHz phased transmitter array is assembled into tiles for efficient energy direction. A recovery unit (receiver) on the receiving device communicates its location and power needs, ensuring precise and efficient power delivery.
GuRu’s compact and modular system can be scaled to meet various power and range needs by adding or configuring tiles. Unlike older wireless power systems requiring precise coil alignment, GuRu’s solution minimizes energy loss and heat generation. The system supports large-scale applications like powering IoT networks or automotive charging stations and is also suitable for compact devices like satellites or wearables.
All in all, the claims sound good, but the system uses the 24 GHz frequency, which is the same as 5G high-band mmWave technology and comes with challenges. These include limited range, the need for a clear line of sight, high signal attenuation from weather, and interference with other devices operating in the same spectrum. To overcome this shortcoming. I have to assume they are also using other frequency ranges to transfer the power.
More information about the modular wireless power transfer module and other details can be found in the press release. You can also check out the company website for more information.
Debashis Das is a technical content writer and embedded engineer with over five years of experience in the industry. With expertise in Embedded C, PCB Design, and SEO optimization, he effectively blends difficult technical topics with clear communication
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