Laser-based Wireless Power Transfer

The objective of this SBIR proposal is to develop a highly reliable and safe laser-based wireless power transmission (LBWPT) system capable of beaming laser power at wavelengths from the near to the mid-infrared over several kilometers to a moving platform from ground, fixed or mobile platforms, or from a moving platform to ground. Successful development of the LBWPT system will provide urgently needed capability to significantly extend the operational time of a variety of autonomously operating devices and sensors for military and commercial applications, including robotic systems, unmanned aerial systems (UASs), surveillance systems, devices for remote chemical and biological detection, as well as free-space communications systems. The proposed innovative development will reduce warfighters exposure to enemy forces, as well as reduce the risk of uncovering the location of emplaced powered devices and sensors. LBWPT development will also significantly reduce the on-board battery weight of electrically-powered systems, and will increase the useful payload of the systems. In addition, the LBWPT system provides a unique capability of remotely supplying power to contaminated sites or inaccessible areas that pose a significant personnel threat, such as nuclear stations and chemical plants destroyed by natural disasters, such as the earthquakes or tsunami.