U.K.-based SplashPower is currently developing a technology for wireless recharging of devices by electromagnetic induction. SplashPower’s wireless rechargers comprise two sorts of ‘SplashPads’ – an electromagnetic induction pad that recharges a single device atop it, such as a digital camera, PDA, MP3 player, or cell phone, as well as a multi-device pad that simultaneously charges several gadgets sitting upon it. One of the major obstacles to the potential widespread use of this technology is the requirement for an integrated special receiver module (‘SplashModule’) inside consumer devices. SplashPower is hoping that by partnering with mobile phone and camera manufacturers, it will create a market for its technology and sell its SplashPads for a few tens of dollars while adding just a few cents to the price of each SplashPower-enabled consumer product equipped with a tiny integrated receiver.
Power transfer by electromagnetic induction is the same process used to recharge some electric toothbrushes. A magnetic field is generated by the SplashPad and transfers energy into the SplashModule-equipped gadget. That energy is then transformed into direct current used by the battery to recharge. The company claims its technology is safe and will not even wipe a credit card placed accidentally on the pad. SplashPower is planning to release its first products, expected to range from $25 – $50, in 2007 through its partners, signaling the beginning of the end of wire clutter and turning the house upside down for the right power cord.
More information on the SplashPad can be found on SplashPower’s website.
