Wireless Power for Battlefield Airmen Operation

ABSTRACT: The continually expanding role technology plays on the modern battlefield is resulting in Warfighters having to carry more batteries. This increased battery weight puts additional strain on the Warfighter and increases logistical burden. In response to these issues, the Air Force has created a power generation and management system (PG & M) that acts as a central power source that can be used to recharge multiple devices. Currently, devices are attached to the PG & M system via conventional cables and connectors. These cables and connectors represent the weak points in the system in that connectors can become damaged or fouled to the point of not being useable, and cables represent snag hazards and hard points. Infoscitex (IST) proposes to develop a system that will integrate wireless power transmission capabilities into the user"s gear and will negate the issues associated with the conventional connectors currently in use. The system will integrate the required coils and conditioning electronics into a cradle or docking station configuration that will serve to maintain coil alignment and spacing, ensuring the most efficient wireless transmission possible. BENEFIT: The benefits of the proposed system will include improved system reliability by replacing cables and connectors, with minimal additional system weight. The proposed solution will be adaptable to virtually any electronic device that can be worn by the battlefield airman. The commercial applications for the proposed technology include use by law enforcement and first responders, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, for powering or recharging multiple body-worn electronic devices from a central power supply, therefore saving on battery weight and storage space.