With the application of embedded modems, remote information processing devices, and wireless connections, more and more cars are becoming equipped with wireless networking capabilities. But currently, sensors, cameras, computing control units, and other in-car facilities are still connected through complex cable wiring. The use of wireless power systems can greatly simplify the use of cables, optimize car design, and make more in car functions possible.
Fewer car cables
On board information processing equipment, sensors, and other types of in car instruments typically require two power cables and two data cables each.
The use of wireless power systems will greatly reduce the cables required for connecting on-board equipment. Only one cable that combines data and power functions and runs through the vehicle body can connect all on-board equipment. The wireless transmission of electrical energy mainly relies on resonant electromagnetic induction, which can transmit power and data information with frequencies ranging from 50mW to 1kW.
General Motors recently announced that it will provide wireless charging devices in its models to charge mobile devices in the vehicle.
In addition to simplifying the use of cables, wireless power systems will also bring other improvements, such as reducing material production and assembly costs, and making more flexible and effective car design possible.
More flexible design
The single vehicle cable system brought by wireless power will allow car manufacturers greater flexibility in designing vehicle power facilities and body construction, and will make more in vehicle functions possible.
For example, with the support of this system, the car doors can be exempted from the obligation to support complex cables, while the rear seat display screen does not need to be connected to the vehicle operation interface. Movable positions such as the front seat or headrest can also be moved more flexibly. In addition, in the case of trailer service, cars equipped with wireless power no longer need to rely on cables with signal plugs to connect to the trailer.
Possible challenges
There are some unavoidable challenges in applying onboard wireless power sources. For example, it is necessary for car manufacturers to modify some components and equipment of their cars to make them suitable for wireless power systems, and this process may take several years.
Before wireless power is fully promoted, car manufacturers may first try independent subsystems such as parking assist systems that are more suitable for wireless power connection.