The landscape of electric vehicle (EV) technology is on the verge of a significant shift, primarily due to recent advancements in wireless power supply systems. Researchers from UNIST, under the direction of Professor Franklin Bien, have unveiled a pioneering system that facilitates the seamless charging of moving electric vehicles. This innovation aims to alleviate one of the substantial burdens of EV ownership—the quest for accessible charging stations. Published in the journal *Applied Energy*, this research holds the promise for a new era in electric transportation.
The core of this innovative system is a wireless charging track that generates a powerful magnetic field. This is achieved through a strategic arrangement of wires that create a wide-ranging magnetic field, allowing vehicles to receive power while in motion. Unlike many existing solutions that require expensive ferromagnetic materials, this system’s design is touted for allowing greater flexibility and maneuverability, enabling vehicles to navigate both forwards and backwards easily.
Central to this operation is an electromagnetic generator that produces a circular magnetic field. This method not only enhances the efficiency of power transfer but also allows for a more user-friendly charging process. By expanding the magnetic field across multiple wires, the system ensures stable energy delivery even when vehicles are in motion, drastically improving the convenience of the EV experience.
One of the standout features of this wireless charging system is its enhanced power transfer efficiency, which can reach up to 90%. The research team has devised algorithms aimed at optimizing the design of both the power supply tracks and the vehicles’ power receivers. This optimization signifies a critical leap forward, as it addresses the efficiency issues that have hampered earlier wireless charging technologies. In contrast to traditional methods reliant on ferromagnetic materials, this new approach promises reduced costs and improved durability—an essential factor for widespread adoption of EV technology.
Safety and Practical Implementation
A thorough evaluation of safety standards has been a priority for Bien’s research team. They have ensured that their wireless charging system complies with the regulations set by respected organizations, such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). This commitment to safety not only builds credibility for the technology but also paves the way for its integration into public infrastructure.
The implications of this technology extend far beyond merely charging vehicles. Professor Bien envisions a transportation system where electric vehicles can operate flexibly, navigating both horizontally and vertically. Such advancements could fundamentally reshape the urban transport infrastructure, allowing for more dynamic and efficient EV operations. Hyunkyeong Jo, the first author of the study, reinforces this vision by addressing the common concerns of charging times and driving ranges, suggesting that this technology may provide viable solutions to these pressing issues.
The work conducted by Professor Bien and his team at UNIST heralds a substantial advancement in electric vehicle technology. With ongoing research and potential commercial applications, this wireless power supply system could redefine charging paradigms and foster a greener, more efficient future for transportation.