WiPo Wireless Power
Resonant Capacitive Coupling
Unlike induction coupling used for magnetic induction wireless power systems, Capacitive Coupling (CC) offers a few advantages and is distinctly different in the way it functions. Capacitive coupling also referred to as electric coupling, makes use of electric fields for the transmission of power between two electrodes (an anode and cathode) forming a capacitance for the transfer of power. Capacitive coupling has the advantage of efficiency by not losing additional energy in the heating of metallic components or equipment. In addition, CC makes use of thin and light plates rather than heavy induction coils, which is an advantage for the use in drones. CC also provides three dimensional (3D) spatial freedom in which the perfect alignment of electrodes are not required for the power system to operate. As a result of the 3D spatial freedom, the electrodes can be created and integrated into the design of the drone itself.
In traditional wireless power systems CC is not suitable for high powered applications, as very high voltages on the electrodes are required to transmit significant power, which in other applications can be hazardous. However these conditions are exactly what is required for powering drones from high voltage power lines. In addition to using capacitive coupling, adding a resonating factor increases the efficiency as well as the available power to operate a drone.