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PowerViews
A Wireless World
Ran Poliakine, CEO, Powermat Technologies
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Powermat technology provides wire-free power to electronic devices so that they can be used in nearly any venue without the need for socket-based or battery-based power. As a result, lighting fixtures, kitchen appliances, computers, TVs, and children’s toys receive power directly through the wall, the countertop or any other surface that has been Powermat-enabled. And since Powermat transfers energy by means of magnetic induction, rather than electrical current, it negates the potential for electrical sparking while at the same time eliminating the potential for overloading sockets and extension cords.
In fact, in the not-too-distant future Powermat envisions a world where wireless power delivery is as prevalent as WiFi availability. By eliminating the transfer of electricity in favor or magnetic energy we open ourselves to an entirely new world where wireless power distribution is accomplished directly through surfaces like walls and tabletops. Where there is no potential for smoke (i.e. the elimination of electrical conductivity) there is also no potential for fire.
It is entirely safe to embed Powermat technology into surfaces (walls, ceilings, tabletops, countertops, dashboards, etc.) since there is no potential for electrical sparking.
As part of New York launch of Duracell Powermat (the joint venture formed between Procter & Gamble’s Duracell brand and Powermat Technologies) we recently announced the ‘Wireless Power Nation’ initiative, an ambitious undertaking to provide access to wireless power is places and settings frequented by consumers throughout their day. Our initial list of partners includes:
- Barclays Center
- Madison Square Garden
- The 40/40 Club
- Delta Airlines
- Westfield Garden State Plaza; and
- General Motors
Each of these partners will have a dedicated built-in wireless charging solution that will enable Duracell Powermat users to simply ‘drop and charge’ their iPhone and other smartphones on a wireless charging ‘hotspot’ in order to power up. It’s a reality whose time has come and a science that has evolved to the next level…by necessity. We need our smartphones to be powered and ready to go all day and battery power simply isn’t keeping up with the functionality of our devices.
In the short term, we are solving for a real need but the long-term implications for power delivery are far greater.
In just a few short years from now, I believe that you can realistically expect to live in a ‘house without wires’ where traditional electrical cords are eliminated by introducing an alternative, wireless power distribution system based on magnetic energy in key environments, including:
- Bathrooms: Lighting fixtures, heaters, and countertops will incorporate device-charging capabilities to power hair dryers, electric tooth brushes, etc. An entire “wet” environment will exist and it will be free of the current dangers associated with the hazardous combination of wet environments and electricity.
- Kitchens: We will facilitate the easy and safe use of kitchen appliances on wet countertop spaces.
- Home office: Traditionally these are small spaces but with the elimination of “spaghetti wires” – which keeps the room uncluttered – there can be enormous space-related gains to more easily accommodate multiple office appliances such as computers, printers/fax machines, cell phones, and desk lamps among other appliances.
- Living/Entertainment rooms: Allowing for flexible and cost-effective positioning and repositioning of home theatres and entertainment elements (no sockets!)
- Child/Playrooms: Socket-free equals child-friendly!
- Outdoor areas: Weather-sensitive recreation areas such as rooftops, pools, balconies, and BBQ pits can get a steady and safe power supply regardless of inclement weather.
- Multi-purpose areas: Unique areas like garages, storage rooms and other non-traditional spaces will now have a solution for adjusting and retrofitting their specific power-related needs.
The future of power delivery is here and now. And, as is the case with all technologies, evolution is inevitable.
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About the Author
Ran Poliakine is the Chairman of the Board & CEO of Powermat Technologies. Mr. Poliakine founded Powermat in response to the need to power an array of mobile devices to ensure that they keep pace with our increasingly mobile lifestyles. He has founded several successful companies in the past including Magink Display Technologies, inventors of reflective digital ink. He has a background in industrial design and holds positions on the executive boards of several lifestyle and technology companies. Most recently, he founded Wellsense Technologies, a venture advancing innovative health/wellness devices.
Mr. Poliakine resides in Israel, with his wife and five children. His personal blog address is www.ranpoliakine.com
We welcome the opportunity to publish your opinions. Please email us at editorial@darnell.com.
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