In Brief

The Challenge

The number of IoT (Internet of Things) devices has grown drastically over the last decade. Nowadays, such devices are mainly powered by batteries. In the context of IoT, the replacement of batteries is a huge undertaking as it involves expensive manual labour and the disposal of batteries that contain a number of heavy metals and toxic chemicals. Standard charging of such batteries is an equally arduous task, as certain IoT devices could be placed in hard-to-reach locations, implying that such IoT devices will first need to be located, accessed and batteries taken out for standard charging using charging mats, for example. The solution to the problem of battery replacement and standard battery recharging will positively impact IoT industry and the environment in general. 

The Solution

Our team-effort solution is based on in-situ wireless charging and powering of IoT devices instead of either regular batteries replacement or charging using charging mats which are intrinsically of a short range (several centimetres). Our solution will reduce the cost and energy needs required for battery production and future disposal. The proposed solution is based on magnetic coupling, implying that it is absolutely safe for humans and does not affect surrounding electronics. In addition, it will also provide a safe and uninterrupted source of wireless power to IoT devices without any downtime. In contrast to existing wireless chargers, our solution will allow charging devices over a distance of several metres. 

The Team 

  • Team Lead: Dr Dmitry Kozlov, Tyndall National Institute 
  • Team Co-Lead: Dr Senad Bulja, Tyndall National Institute 

Societal Impact Champion  

  • Dr Stephen Brennan, Digital Hub Development Agency