Space Zoo Patrol – Energy Transmission – Lasers

By:  Powerlight Technologies

Tom Nugent (CTO),

Mitchell A. Kirby (Knowledge Engineer)

May 2023

1. Background

• What is this technology called?
  • This technology is commonly known as laser power beaming, but it may also be referred to as optical wireless power, free space power, or power over fiber.
• How does it work?
  • Laser power beaming works by converting electricity into high-intensity light using a laser. This light is then sent through the air or an optical fiber to a receiver equipped with special solar cells called “photovoltaic cells.” These cells convert the light back into electricity.
• Who invented it? And when and where?
  • The idea of wireless power has been around since the late 1800s when Nikola Tesla first explored it. In the 1960s, researchers started using microwaves to beam power from space to Earth. As lasers were being developed, the concept of using lasers for power beaming emerged. In the early 1990s, Jordin Kare, the late co-founder of PowerLight Technologies, conducted experiments with early diode lasers, proving the possibility of laser power beaming. In 2019, Jordin’s co-founder Tom Nugent and the team at PowerLight Technologies demonstrated the ability to safely send kilowatt-scale power over kilometer distances in the Port of Seattle, paving the road for practical power beaming applications.

2. Advantages (How is it better than the old technology?)

• General Advantages?
  • Laser power beaming offers several advantages compared to traditional transmission networks. For example, laser power beaming eliminates the need for physical power lines, reducing hazards and potential risks associated with copper wires. It prioritizes safety and reduces the impact on the environment and wildlife. Laser power beaming is an innovative technology that combines science, engineering, and creativity.
• What are the environmental advantages?

By directly powering devices that are currently powered by batteries that need to be recharged and replaced, laser power beaming can reduce the need for batteries, which reduces the need to mine minerals for batteries. The same is true for devices that use sunlight during the day but use batteries to keep powering them at night. Because renewable energy sources such as the sun or the wind are not always generating power, energy storage solutions or backup power sources are required to ensure a consistent supply of energy. By sending power from the renewable source to a distribution center as it becomes available, laser power beaming can significantly reduce the number of batteries that are thrown out.

Laser power beaming also has the potential to transmit energy efficiently and sustainably over long distances without the need for traditional methods like electrical cables. Laser power beaming also promotes the use of clean and renewable energy sources. Imagine a future where vast wind or solar power farms in remote locations can efficiently transmit clean energy to cities using laser power beaming. Laser power transmission networks do not require cutting down of trees or mining large amounts of copper in environmentally harmful practices. This also protects wildlife, and their habitats.

• What are the life cycle financial advantages?
  • Laser power beaming brings some awesome financial advantages throughout its life cycle, making it a better choice than old technology.

For example, laser power beaming can be done in a cost effective manner. Compared to old technologies that may require expensive cables, wires, or batteries, laser power beaming uses light to transfer energy. This means fewer materials and infrastructure are needed, resulting in lower costs for installation and maintenance. Additionally, old technologies such as copper wires can be damaged due to bad weather. which require repairs after wind and thunder storms, and costs money, in addition to being unsightly. As such, traditional wiring may have shorter lifespans and require more frequent maintenance, leading to higher expenses, compare to laser power beaming. Because laser power beaming systems are designed to be durable and long-lasting, they require less frequent replacements or repairs, saving money in the long run.

• What jobs are created?
  • The growth of laser power beaming brings exciting job opportunities in various fields. In engineering, there will be many openings for design engineers that play a crucial role in creating laser power beaming systems. These engineers use their STEM knowledge to design and develop efficient systems that transfer energy using laser beams. Design engineers use their creativity and problem-solving skills to make laser power beaming safer and more effective. Some examples of specific engineers include applied physicists and materials engineers, engineers that develop lasers, photovoltaic cells, optical fibers, system engineers, mechanical, electrical, and thermal engineers, as well as software engineers.

Growing use of laser power beaming will also lead to increased technician jobs for both manufacturing and installation. Manufacturing technicians are responsible for building and assembling the components of laser power beaming systems. They work with advanced machinery and tools to fabricate and test the equipment. These technicians ensure that the systems are built accurately, meeting quality standards and safety regulations. Installation specialists work on-site to set up the equipment and ensure the systems are functioning optimally. They play a vital role in implementing the technology and ensuring its successful operation.

3. Energy Production

• How efficient is this technology?
  • In the 20^th century, lasers had very low efficiencies, and photovoltaic cells had not been optimized for laser-to-electrical conversion. But in the last 20 years, great improvements have been made, increasing the top efficiencies for both components above 60% and resulting in end-to-end efficiencies greater than 20%, a significant improvement that has made laser power beaming useful for a growing number of applications. With further improvements, the end-to-end efficiency of laser power beaming systems can reasonably get higher than 30%.
• How many units are needed for 1 house, 1 school, 1 community?
  • Laser power beaming typically requires a single unit for power delivery to a specific location, making it efficient and straightforward. In contrast, microwave beaming and copper cabling require multiple units or extensive networks for power transmission.
• What percentage of total energy usage (US) does this technology provide today?
  • At present, laser power beaming is an emerging technology that is not yet widely implemented for large-scale energy transmission in the United States. Therefore, it currently represents a small fraction of the total energy transmission in the country.
• What percentage of total energy usage (US) could this technology provide in the future?
  • The future potential of laser power beaming is quite exciting. As scientists, engineers, and researchers continue to improve the technology, it has the potential to become an important part of our energy infrastructure. While it’s challenging to predict exact percentages, laser power beaming could significantly contribute to the energy distribution mix in the future.
• What is the current status of laser power beaming?
  • Currently, laser power beaming is primarily used in research and experimental projects to explore its capabilities and refine the technology. It is still in the development and optimization phase for practical applications, particularly for use by mobile telecom companies to power 5G radios. Demonstrations have been done, and we expect products to be deployed by industrial customers starting by 2025.
• In what geographical areas can laser power beaming be used?
  • Laser power beaming has the potential to be used in various geographical areas around the world. Its versatility allows for efficient energy transmission in both urban and rural areas, regardless of population density or geographical features. Whether it’s powering homes, schools, or even communities in remote regions, laser power beaming can be adapted to suit different needs and environments.

4. Engineering

• How is it manufactured?
  • Manufacturing laser power beaming systems involves a combination of engineering, technology, and scientific principles. The process includes designing and developing system components, manufacturing those components using specialized techniques, integrating them into a functional system, and conducting thorough testing.
• What maintenance is required?
  • Laser power beaming systems require regular maintenance, including cleaning, inspection, calibration, and potential system upgrades. However, they have advantages over older technologies, such as reduced wear and tear, and lower maintenance costs.

5. Education

• What classes should I take in school to work on this technology?
  • To pursue a career in laser power beaming, consider taking the following classes to build a strong STEM foundation:

Physics: Learn about laser technology, optics, and energy transmission.

Mathematics: Develop problem-solving and analytical skills for system optimization.

Engineering: Gain knowledge in electrical, mechanical, or photonics engineering for system design.

Robotics: Understand automation and control aspects applicable to laser power beaming systems.

Computer Science: Develop programming skills for controlling laser systems and analyzing data.

Remember, these classes provide a starting point, and you can explore more advanced subjects in high school and college to specialize in laser power beaming.

6. Pictures

7. Links

Power Light Technologies www.powerlighttech.com