What is the story about?
What's Happening?
NTT Inc. and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. have successfully conducted an optical wireless power transmission experiment using laser beams, achieving the world's highest efficiency in this technology. The experiment involved transmitting energy over a distance of one kilometer, with a laser beam delivering 152 W of electric power. This breakthrough demonstrates the potential for delivering power to remote locations, such as islands and disaster-stricken areas, where traditional power cables are impractical. The technology leverages beam-shaping and output leveling techniques to maintain efficiency despite atmospheric turbulence.
Why It's Important?
This advancement in laser wireless power transmission could transform energy delivery in remote and inaccessible areas, providing a reliable power source during emergencies or in regions lacking infrastructure. The technology's high directivity and efficiency make it suitable for applications like powering drones, enhancing disaster monitoring, and expanding communication networks. The ability to deliver power wirelessly over long distances without cables represents a significant leap forward in energy technology, potentially reducing dependency on traditional power grids and fostering innovation in energy distribution.
What's Next?
Future applications of this technology include powering mobile platforms such as drones and high-altitude stations, as well as potential space applications like lunar rovers and space solar power systems. The collaboration between NTT and MHI aims to further develop this technology, exploring new use cases and expanding its market potential. As the technology matures, it could lead to the creation of next-generation infrastructure capable of addressing diverse societal needs, from disaster response to space exploration.
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