In an effort to move towards completely wireless power systems, a new technology can deliver energy to multiple devices from as far away as 30 feet and without line of sight. Developed behind closed doors by Ossia Inc., the Cota technology can charge or power a wide range of devices including smartphones, remote controls, cameras, video game controllers, flashlights, smoke detectors, and more.
Unveiled at TechCrunch Disrupt San Francisco, Cota uses a smart phased-array antenna to transfer power without the use of inductive coils, ultrasonic waves, magnetic resonance, charging pads, or mats. Cota consists of two parts: a charger and a receiver. Signals are delivered omnidirectionally, hitting the charger and then following the same path back to the receiver, focusing energy at the location of the device to be powered. The magnetic charge is sent over the same 2.4 GHz spectrum used by Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and delivers 1 W of power.
Cota can then continuously stream power to multiple devices, even as they move around the room. The 30 feet of coverage spans the distance of the average two-story home and can automatically locate Cota receivers built into devices or batteries. Consumer electronics OEMs and ODMs can include Cota receivers in new products under license while building their own branded Cota transmitters. Existing battery-powered devices can be retrofitted with the receivers even if they are already equipped for pad-based charging systems.