Startup aims to replace power connectors with magnetic module
The ultra-small power and sense modules were created for engineers looking to reduce connector field failures in traditionally high-use, harsh environments or in new designs which were not previously possible without a physical power connection. The new connectors, launched at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this week, allow power transfer of 165mW at 3.3V across a gap of up to 1.5mm (and 132mW across 2mm), and can validate the presence of a mating receiver through non-metallic materials.
Already designed into demanding medical applications, these power and data expandable devices provide greater orientation / offset freedom, infinite mating cycles, and environment flexibility within an ultra-small, rectangular package measuring 11mm x 4mm x 4.5mm. Each receiver and transmitter uses NuCurrent’s PCB coils and proprietary electronics in a single block which can be surface mounted for automated manufacturing. The Chicago-based company has 17 patents for its ‘CoolSkin Technologies’ and proprietary design methodologies which ensure high efficiency, shape flexibility, tight tolerance and repeatable performance.
“This new category of cost-sensitive power and sense products delivers solutions to real issues for applications such as portable medical, IOT sensors, robotics, lighting and security. NuCurrent’s practical R&D-to-production focus delivered a reliable family of solutions where others could not,” said Michael Gotlieb, Vice President of Business Development at NuCurrent. “This technology complements our broad range of existing antennas and consumer focused ‘drop-in’ 1 watt to 5 watt receiver modules for wearables, hearables and other portable applications.”
NuCurrent also announced a range of medium power, wireless power coils for Qi low frequency applications at CES. Joining NuCurrent’s single substrate multimode (Qi, AirFuel) medium power coil, four newly created coil designs are now available. Easily customizable, yet production-ready, the new 10 watt to 15 watt receiver coils deliver the highest performance of any other market offering targeting mobile and consumer accessory OEMs.
Connector maker Molex has invested in the company and last November launched a range of wireless power coils with NuCurrent technology support low, high and proprietary frequencies, in standard and custom sizes. A high Q-factor results in lower heat generation and faster charging in a range of applications, including mobile phones, tablets, gaming systems, wearables and other consumer electronics, medical devices, furniture, and in-vehicle transmitters. The PowerLife wireless power coils with NuCurrent technology withstand vibration, heat and humidity, and excel in transmitting power through air, wood, or any non-metallic surface.
“A logical next-step in connectivity, wireless power requires the right technologies to achieve optimal device charging,” said Steve Zeilinger, product manager at Molex. “Compact PowerLife wireless power coils provide an extremely tight electrical tolerance and low rate of field failures for a better product design, performance and end-user experience.”
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