KIST Unveils Innovative Ultrasonic Wireless Battery Charging Technology

In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, the realm of biomedical devices faces unique challenges, particularly when it comes to powering implantable electronics. Traditional methods of wireless charging, such as electromagnetic induction and radio frequency-based approaches, are limited in their scope of application due to a number of factors, including ineffective energy transfer efficiency through biological tissues and susceptibility to electromagnetic interference. As technology progresses, researchers are increasingly turning towards ultrasonic power transfer as a promising alternative. This innovative approach not only offers improvements over preceding technologies but also presents an exciting frontier for medical device functionality.

Recent developments in ultrasonic wireless charging systems have made it clear that this technology is poised to transform the ways in which medical devices can be powered. A collaborative research endeavor led by a team from the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), under the guidance of Dr. Sunghoon Hur, alongside Professor Hyun-Cheol Song from Korea University, has paved the way for significant breakthroughs in this field. The focus has been on creating a biocompatible ultrasonic receiver capable of maintaining performance through mechanical deformation, which is a significant advancement given the complex environments in which medical devices operate.

Conventional wireless power transmissions are often plagued by restrictions that limit their effectiveness—short transmission distances and low efficiency when interacting with biological tissues are prominent among these issues. In contrast, ultrasonic technology leverages sound waves to transfer energy, with the advantage of minimal tissue absorption, thereby allowing for enhanced energy transfer capabilities in not only implantable devices but also skin-adherent technologies.

This pioneering work culminated in the design of a state-of-the-art ultrasonic receiver. The research emphasized high power conversion efficiency through the adoption of advanced piezoelectric materials, paired with an innovative structural design that allows for flexibility and biocompatibility. This new design philosophy enables the receiver to conform to the unique contours of the human body, producing stable power conversion even under bending and deformation.

By successfully transmitting power underwater and through human tissue, the researchers have demonstrated that it is viable to transmit 20 mW of energy at a distance of 3 cm in water and approximately 7 mW at a depth of 3 cm from the skin’s surface. This level of power output is significant—it is sufficient to continuously power various low-energy wearable devices as well as essential medical implants, effectively eliminating the need for invasive surgeries or frequent battery replacements.

The implications of this research extend far beyond simple battery charging; they herald a new era for medical technology. The ability to provide consistent, reliable power to devices such as pacemakers, neurostimulators, and other wearable sensors without the need for physical connections or bulky batteries opens up endless possibilities for medical applications. Moreover, the technology is equally poised to influence the field of underwater electronics, enhancing the operational capabilities of underwater drones and marine sensors that require long-term energy solutions.

Dr. Sunghoon Hur’s insights into the research highlight the transformative potential of ultrasonic wireless power transmissions. He expressed optimism regarding the future applications of their research, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to miniaturization and commercialization, which will significantly contribute to practical applications of this technology in everyday life. The ability to safely and efficiently harness energy through ultrasound could redefine the standards for implantable health technologies and their integration into patient care.

With support from the Ministry of Science and ICT and the National Research Foundation of Korea, this innovative research has been well-received within the scientific community. The findings were published in the prestigious journal Advanced Materials—a nod to their significance within the materials science sector. Such recognition underscores both the novelty and importance of this work, marking it as a potential key player in shaping the future of biomedical engineering.

As we look to the horizon, it is clear that the transition from traditional power sources to innovative wireless solutions like ultrasound technology is already in motion. The advancements in biocompatible materials designed for ultrasonic energy transfer not only assure ongoing patient safety but also provide unprecedented design flexibility for creating more effective medical devices. The future seems promising, and the continuous pursuit of innovation will undoubtedly lead to profound changes in how we approach medical technology and patient wellness on a global scale.

In conclusion, with healthcare increasingly moving towards more advanced and personalized solutions, the implications of efficient wireless power systems such as those demonstrated by KIST cannot be overstated. As researchers push the boundaries of what’s possible, the prospects for ultrasonic power transfer technology in enhancing the capabilities of implantable medical devices and beyond remain boundless.

Through these advancements, we stand on the brink of an energy revolution within medicine, one that will enable machines to operate autonomously and seamlessly integrate into the lives of patients without the burdens of traditional energy limitations. This research, by breaking ground in ultrasonic wireless power, represents a considerable step towards not only making medical devices more effective but also significantly enhancing the quality of care provided to patients in need.

Subject of Research: Ultrasonic Wireless Charging for Medical Devices
Article Title: A Body Conformal Ultrasound Receiver for Efficient and Stable Wireless Power Transfer in Deep Percutaneous Charging
News Publication Date: March 26, 2025
Web References: KIST Website
References: Advanced Materials (IF: 27.4, top 1.9% in JCR materials)
Image Credits: Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST)

Keywords

Ultrasonic power transfer, Wireless charging, Medical devices, Biocompatibility, Piezoelectric materials, Energy efficiency, Implantable electronics, Wearable technology, KIST, Advanced Materials.