| A way of
wirelessly recharging mobile phones could make integrating consumer electronics
easier for engineers and designers. Drivers are bringing more and more
gadgets with them into their vehicles, prompting OEMs to install more
power outlets.
"All of a sudden, power outlets are the new cup holders," said
GM product development chief Bob Lutz. "It's what customers want.
Whoever has the most wins."
In the US, demand for extra power outlets from commuters and families
is particularly high. It's a drain on the electrical architecture and
plays havoc with interior design.
Visteon has a wireless technology that makes sure batteries for mobile
phones, MP3 players and PDAs are always fully charged. The technology
eliminates the need to have dedicated power cords for each portable device
in the vehicle.
"Consumer studies in several countries suggest people are willing
to invest in the convenience of not having to deal with charging cords
in a vehicle," said Steve Meszaros, vice president of Visteon electronics.
The user simply places the device on Visteon's charger, and power is wirelessly
transferred by electromagnetic induction from the charger to the user's
portable device at a rate comparable to a plug-in power cord. The charger
is able to determine if an object is in close proximity to the charger,
and whether the object can be charged.
Visteon is working with companies Motorola, Mobility Electronics and Herman
Miller to develop the technology further.
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