DAIHEN Leverages WiTricity Wireless Charging Technology for Solar Powered Mobility Demonstration in Japan

WiTricity technology powers DAIHEN’s D-Broad system for enhanced productivity of factory and industrial automation systems

WATERTOWN, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–WiTricity, technology for wireless power transfer over distance, was central to a next-generation electric mobility demonstration in Osaka, Japan, led by DAIHEN Corporation, a global leader in electric power transmission.

Partners since 2016, DAIHEN licensed WiTricity’s technology to commercialize wireless charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs) and for automatic guided vehicles (AGVs) in factory and industrial settings. DAIHEN has been using WiTricity’s DRIVE 11 wireless charging system as a reference design for its own line of standards-compliant wireless chargers for battery electric and hybrid electric vehicles.

Cable-free Electric Mobility Demonstrated in Osaka, Japan

DAIHEN recently launched a demonstration with Kansai Electric Power Co. at Expo Park in Osaka, Japan, to showcase next-generation mobility services using a small electric vehicle, similar in size and functionality to a golf cart, and a solar-powered wireless charging system, provided by DAIHEN. The February demonstration took place in Expo Park, a park and recreational facility with gardens and museums, nearly the size of Manhattan’s Central Park.

The demonstration integrated electric mobility, DAIHEN’s wireless charging system, on-demand vehicle reservation systems, location information and data utilization (e.g., human flow analysis) to create a next-generation mobility service. As part of the demonstration, Expo Park visitors were able to use their smartphones to call up electric carts, which were charged by a solar-powered wireless charging system. This system made car-sharing operations more convenient for both park managers and visitors.

Wireless Charging Drives 24/7 Productivity and Streamlines Factory Automation

The DAIHEN D-Broad system is a wireless charging solution for factory automation based on WiTricity’s patented magnetic resonance technology. D-Broad streamlines factory automation by enabling fast, automatic charging at multiple locations along an AGV route through a factory as it transports materials and parts. The D-Broad system has been shipping since 2016 and continues to see strong momentum in the market.

In contrast to conventional plug-in charging systems that require human operators to take AGVs out of service to recharge, AGVs equipped with DAIHEN’s D-Broad can autonomously re-charge and work around the clock. DAIHEN supplies the system on an OEM basis to AGV and mobile robotics manufacturers, and directly to advanced manufacturing engineers for custom factory automation projects. In addition to streamlining the AGV charging process, the D-Broad system also improves system reliability and reduces total cost of ownership by eliminating trouble-prone charging connectors and cables.

“Wireless charging is essential to the future of mobility, whether that mobility happens on city streets or in factories. The future of mobility is autonomous, and in order to reach full autonomy, the charging cable has to be completely removed,” said Ryohei Tanaka, Vice President, Operating Officer and General Manager of Wireless Power Transfer Division, DAIHEN. “Our demonstration in Osaka proved that renewable energy coupled with autonomy creates a smart mobility future.”

For more information, visit www.witricity.com.

About WiTricity

WiTricity develops wireless power solutions using its patented magnetic resonance technology. WiTricity works with top global automakers and Tier 1 suppliers to deploy EV wireless charging, helping realize a future of transportation that is electrified, shared and autonomous. See how WiTricity makes EV charging easy, transparent and hands-free. Get to know WiTricity.

Following its recent acquisition of the Qualcomm Halo IP portfolio and technology, WiTricity has solidified its position as the “go-to” provider of EV wireless charging technology to automakers and Tier 1 suppliers. Licenses already have been announced with Toyota, Aptiv (formerly Delphi), Mahle, TDK, IHI, Shindengen, DAIHEN, BRUSA, Anjie Wireless, Yura and VIE. Global corporate investors now include Qualcomm, Toyota, Intel Capital, Delta Electronics Capital, Foxconn, and Schlumberger. WiTricity is also collaborating directly with leading carmakers to drive global standards for wireless charging systems. Standards initiatives include the SAE International, International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), STILLE, China Automotive Technology & Research Center (CATARC), China Electricity Council and the Chinese Electric Power Research Institute (CEPRI).

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Contacts

Allison Webster, PR for WiTricity

witricity@v2comms.com