New Ultrasonic Wireless Charging Technology Promises Revolution in Medical Devices
Seoul, South Korea — A research team from the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) and Korea University has made significant strides in developing a groundbreaking wireless charging technology using ultrasound. This innovation addresses the limitations of conventional systems, which suffer from short transmission distances and inefficiencies in biological tissues, crucial for the growing market of implantable and underwater medical electronics.
The team, led by Dr. Sunghoon Hur, created a biocompatible ultrasonic receiver that remains efficient even when bent, suitable for integration into wearable and implantable devices. This new technology capitalizes on ultrasound’s human-friendly characteristics, allowing for more reliable energy transmission through the human body.
Importantly, their research has demonstrated wireless battery charging via ultrasonic waves, achieving remarkable power conversion efficiency. By utilizing advanced piezoelectric materials and a unique structural design, the team successfully transmitted 20 mW of power at a distance of 3 cm underwater and 7 mW through 3 cm of skin. This capability is sufficient to power various low-power implants and wearable devices continually.
The implications of this technology are vast, potentially transforming the way low-power medical devices like pacemakers and neurostimulators are powered. It also holds promise for applications beyond healthcare, such as underwater drones and marine sensors that necessitate extended power supplies.
"We have shown that ultrasound-based wireless power transmission can be practically applied," said Dr. Hur. The next steps for the researchers involve miniaturization and commercialization efforts to further enhance the technology’s practical applications.
This research, recently published in Advanced Materials, illustrates KIST’s commitment to pioneering innovative solutions for societal challenges since its founding in 1966.
For more information, visit KIST’s website.
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