Tubular Electronics

Introduction As the demand for smaller and more portable consumer electronics increases, new designs and fabrication techniques must constantly be developed in order to accommodate and take advantage of the changes. Power supplies and adapters, for instance, are now often larger than the devices for which they service. These components must also evolve, and one way is to utilize the unused space in the insulating wire coating on power cords. This coating is relatively thick and this space could be better utilized for packing electronics. Technology Description Professor Parviz at the University of Washington has developed the methodology to utilize the bulk of space taken up by power cord insulating coatings. Using radial fabrication techniques, the necessary components—thin-film insulators, capacitors, diodes, and a transformer—are incorporated directly around the wire within the power cord. The wall plug interface also provides additional unused space that can house required electronics. This component arrangement is more efficient at distributing heat and facilitates its own cooling. Business Opportunity The ability to make increasingly compact and portable devices by transferring essential electronics into the unused space of the power cord presents opportunities for all consumer electronic products. This technology removes the need for conventional power supplies and recharging units entirely. Those functions could become entirely selfcontained within the main unit for many devices. Stage of Development A working methodology for this technology is in development. Intellectual Property Position The UW is currently reviewing this technology for worldwide patent protection.

Type of Offer: Licensing



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