The University of Texas is working on a cutting-edge technology that will allow drones to be charged in mid-air using electric discharge and electromagnetic waves. Funded by the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), this innovative technology aims to ensure that drones can continue their missions without interruption for recharging.
Dr. Ifana Mahbub, an associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Texas, has received funding from DARPA to further develop this electric discharge technology. This funding will enable the continuation of research into long-range wireless power transfer for drones.
Mahbub and her team are working on far-field technology that will enable the transmission of electromagnetic waves over much greater distances. One of the challenges they face is ensuring that the electromagnetic beams do not scatter or lose energy over large distances. Mahbub has devised a system using phased antenna arrays to direct the electromagnetic beam along a specific path, ensuring efficient charging of the drones.
The technology being developed by Mahbub and her team has significant applications beyond charging drones in mid-air. It could also be used to charge electric cars while driving on highways or medical implants in humans using low frequencies. This innovative technology is set to revolutionize the way drones are powered and will have a significant impact on various industries.
Military drones such as Medium Altitude, High Endurance (MALE) and high-altitude, high-endurance (HALE) types fly at varying altitudes. The technology being developed by Mahbub and her team will ensure that drones can be charged while in flight at these high altitudes.
In conclusion, this cutting-edge technology being developed at the University of Texas has significant potential applications beyond just charging drones in mid-air. It could also have a significant impact on various industries such as transportation and healthcare.
