Hardware

Zytronic introduces transparent power delivery capability

Image courtesy of Zytronic.

March 5, 2021

Zytronic PLC has introduced a method of delivering power through glass invisibly, according to a press release. Called ElectroglaZ, this patent-pending technology creates opportunities for low power devices and applications without using wires.

"ElectroglaZ is completely transparent and can be used to 'magically' power a near limitless variety of low power, electronic and electrotechnical devices embedded within a glass panel," Ian Crosby, sales and marketing director at Zytronic, said in the press release. "Potential applications include LED lit display cases and shelving units for museums, art galleries and high-end retail stores."

ElectroglaZ can also deliver low power, (sub 50V / 3A), to USB sockets, induction charging pads, motors, fans, security cameras, sensors, air monitoring units in HVAC systems and small displays. Furthermore, industrial designers can combine it with Zytronic's patented multitouch projected capacitive technology to add multi-user touch interactivity and tangible object recognition in "smart" tables and other design-led furniture.

To bring a third dimension to touch, Zytronic's ZyBrid contactless sensing technology offers another option, which detects user interactions up to 30mm away from the surface of the glass.

Zytronic's ElectroglaZ technology is a lamination of two or more conductive yet completely transparent glass panels. This arrangement allows the transfer of power across the inner conductive coatings within the insulated surfaces of the laminate.

To tap into the power, small apertures, typically 30 to 100mm, are machined into the laminated glass where the customer's connection and electrical device or assembly fits and connects to the positive and negatively charged inner coatings. A 1mm wide printed conductive busbar around the perimeter of the glass is applied to supply the external power into the laminate.

The maximum number of mounting holes machined into the glass depends upon the size of both the panel and apertures themselves. However, as a design guide, there should be a minimum of double the aperture diameter between each hole and from the glass edges.