Wireless charging is becoming more accessible for consumer devices. It keeps workspaces clear and provides an efficient method for charging. In industrial settings, it can save time and create new workflows.
WiTricity, a United States-based manufacturer of magnetic wireless power systems, announced earlier in April that they would partner with Daihen, a Japanese company focusing on power electronics and industrial robotics.
Among other segments, Daihen serves the Automatic Guided Vehicle market – vehicles which autonomously carry materials and parts through factories or warehouses using pre-set markers or pathways. WiTricity’s magnetic resonance technology can be used in wireless charging systems which Daihen developed for its vehicles.
WiTricity has licensed the intellectual property and technology involved in making the wireless chargers to Daihen, and from there, Daihen will offer the charging systems to other AGV and mobile robotics developers and industrial end users on an OEM basis.
The wireless system charges quickly and automatically at 3kW, and allows for charging spots along an AGV’s route in a factory without the vehicle having to be removed from its route for charging or battery replacement. Ideally, this will make for faster routes and more efficient workflows.
“The industrial robotics market is primed to take advantage of wireless charging technology, and WiTricity is pleased to be working with a leader in the space like Daihen,” said David Schatz, WiTricity vice president of business development. “Companies across the industry will have access to WiTricity technology in turn-key products and systems delivered by Daihen.”
“Daihen sees wireless power transfer as a foundational technology for the factory of the future, and we expect wireless charging to be a growth engine for DAIHEN’s business,” said Yoshinori Tsuruda, general manager of wireless power transfer system development at Daihen. “Working with WiTricity allows us to enter the market for AGV wireless charging, while providing Daihen with a technology platform to bring wireless charging to a broader range of industrial applications.”
Filed Under: Industrial automation
