Abstract
Microwave power transmission (MPT) involves the usage of microwaves to
transmit power through outer space or the atmosphere without the need for
wires. It is a sub-type of the more general wireless energy transfer methods,
and is the most interesting because microwave devices offer the highest
efficiency of conversion between DC-electricity and microwave radiative power.
Following World War II, which saw the development of high-power microwave
emitters known as cavity magnetrons, the idea of using microwaves to transmit
power was researched. In 1964, William C. Brown demonstrated a miniature
helicopter equipped with a combination antenna and rectifier device called a
rectenna. The rectenna converted microwave power into electricity, allowing
the helicopter to fly. In principle, the rectenna is capable of very high
conversion efficiencies - over 90% in optimal circumstances.
Most proposed MPT systems now usually include a phased array microwave
transmitter. While these have lower efficiency levels they have the advantage
of being electrically steered using no moving parts, and are easier to scale
to the necessary levels that a practical MPT system requires.
Aruvians Rsearch presents a complete analysis of the myriad uses of Microwave
Power Transmission, and one of its biggest application - Solar Power Satellite
Systems. In its report, Analyzing Microwave Power Transmission & Solar Power
Satellite Systems, Aruvians Rsearch puts forth an analytical view of wireless
transmission systems, the basics of microwave power transmission systems, its
uses, benefits, challenges facing the technology, global activities going on
in the field of MPT, and its applications.
One of the biggest applications of microwave power transmission at the moment
is its utility in solar power satellite systems, or SPS. The report takes an
in-depth view on the basics of the system, how microwave power transmission is
used in SPS, the challenges facing SPS, environmental and health impact of the
SPS and much more. The report further also analyzes the Space Solar Power
System (SSPS), delving into the vast amount of research conducted on this
topic by NASA.
The leading industry contributors to the field of microwave power transmission
is also looked at in the report.
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