[NLRS] Proposal for 24 GHz wireless power transfer

[Jon Platt]

A cut and paste from the recent ARRL weekly newsletter below. 73, JonW0ZQ  New Tech: FCC Invites Comments on Waiver Request for 24 GHz Wireless Power Transfer Device The FCC Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) is seeking comments in ET Docket 19-83 on a request by Auspion USA, Inc. to waive the Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) rules' "local use" requirement (FCC Part 2 and Part 18 rules) for a 24 GHz wireless power transfer device over distance. On January 3, Auspion requested a waiver of FCC rules to allow it to obtain a grant of equipment authorization for the marketing and operation of a non‑consumer system using transmission of wireless power over distance. Auspion's "WiPod" system would provide power to, and/or charge, receivers located at various distances from the transmitter.   §18.107(c) of the rules defines ISM devices as "[e]quipment or appliances designed to generate and use [local] RF energy for industrial, scientific, medical, domestic or similar purposes, excluding applications in the field of telecommunication." Auspion requests that the Commission waive the "local use" condition, as specified in ISM Part 18 rules to allow its system to operate at distances greater than 1 meter between the transmitter and receivers, as long as the transmitted power is directed to very precise locations (called "power spots") where the receivers are sited. Auspion plans to market its system exclusively for industrial, retail, and enterprise applications, such as charging industrial robots, warehouse-based drones, and smartphones in conference rooms.Parties should file all comments and reply comments in ET Docket 19-83 using the Commission's Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS). Comments are due by April 25, and reply comments are due by May 10.