Power beaming is the process of transmitting power wirelessly from one location to another. The spelling of "power beaming" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as /ˈpaʊər ˌbiːmɪŋ/. The first syllable "pow-" is pronounced with a diphthong sound of /aʊ/, while the second syllable "-er" is pronounced with a schwa sound of /ə/. The stress is on the first syllable. The second word "beaming" is pronounced with a long "e" sound of /iː/ and stress on the second syllable. The entire word is commonly used in the field of wireless power technology.
Power beaming is a method of wireless energy transfer where electrical power is transmitted over a distance to a target destination, using various means such as microwaves, lasers, or radio waves. This technology aims to efficiently deliver electrical energy to devices or systems that are not connected to a traditional power source.
In power beaming, a source, often referred to as the power transmitter or the power beamer, generates and emits electromagnetic waves carrying the electric power. These waves are then received by a target device, called the power receiver or the power harvester, which converts the received energy back into usable electrical power. This process is achieved through the utilization of antennas, transmitters, and receivers.
One of the most common forms of power beaming is through microwave transmission. In this approach, a large microwave transmitter emits a beam of microwaves which are focused, directed, and then collected by a receiver device. The receiver converts the microwave energy back into electricity through rectifying circuits. Similarly, laser-based power beaming utilizes high-powered lasers to transfer energy through laser beams.
Power beaming has the potential to revolutionize various industries and applications, including space exploration, wireless charging of electronic devices, and remote power supply for inaccessible locations. It offers the flexibility to provide energy on demand without the need for physical connections or extensive energy storage. However, the efficiency of power beaming systems, as well as safety concerns associated with the transmission of high-powered energy beams, are areas of ongoing research and development.
The term "power beaming" originated from the combination of two words: "power" and "beaming".
The word "power" comes from the Old French word "povoir" which means "to be able" or "to have the ability". It entered English through the Anglo-Norman language and has roots in the Latin word "potere", which carries a similar meaning of having the ability, authority, or capacity to do something.
The term "beaming" is derived from the Old English word "bēm" which means "a ray of light" or "a shining light". It is related to the Old High German word "beam", meaning "a beam or ray".
In the context of "power beaming", the term refers to the transmission of power through beams or rays of light.