Electrical Engineering and Construction Scenario Examples
- Smart Grids and Energy Management
Problem
The management of the electricity transmission network, the mix of energy from different suppliers is a serious problem for every country and electricity distribution company.
Potential Solutions
- Smart Grids
- Real-time analysis, forecasting and planning of electricity production and delivery
Example
Schneider Electric Smart Grid Solution
Companies like Schneider Electric and Siemens are advancing smart grid technology, enabling real-time energy flow optimization, improved load management, and integration of renewable energy sources.
- Wireless Power Transfer (WPT)
Problem
Wireless power transfer
Potential Solutions
- Inductive Coupling (Near-Field WPT) used for wireless charging of smartphones and electric vehicles (EVs)
- Resonant Inductive Coupling used in mid-range WPT for charging electric buses or medical implants (e.g. pacemakers)
- Radio Frequency (RF) or Microwave Power Transfer (Far-Field WPT) used in satellite power stations, RFID tags, and IoT sensors
Examples
Innovations in wireless charging, such as WiTricity and Ossia, allow devices like electric vehicles (EVs) and home appliances to charge without physical connections.
- Solid-State Batteries
Problem
Production of Solid-State Batteries (SSB). Solid-State Batteries use a solid electrolyte instead of the liquid and gel electrolyte found in traditional lithium-ion batteries. This makes them safer, more energetic and long-lasting.
Potential solutions
- Creation of solid electrolytes based on solid materials such as ceramics, sulfides or polymers
- Research and Development of new kinds of solid electrolytes
Example
Startups like QuantumScape are working on solid-state batteries with higher energy densities, faster charging, and improved safety, ideal for EVs and portable electronics.
- Advanced Electric Motors
Problem
It is necessary to meet the increased demand for ultra-efficient and lightweight electric motors for drones, robots, EVs, and many other applications.
Potential Solutions
- Using ultralight materials to create lightweight electric motors
Example
Companies are creating ultra-efficient, lightweight electric motors for applications like drones, EVs, and robotics, using materials like carbon fiber or axial flux designs (e.g., YASA Motors).
- IoT-Enabled Devices
Problem
The Internet of Things (IoT) and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) are important elements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. IoT and IIoT play an essential role in managing electrical endpoints in homes, offices, and industries.
Potential Solutions
- Development and production of smart electrical terminal devices that can be remotely controlled via IoT and IioT
- Creating an IoT platform in the cloud to manage multiple electrical endpoints
Example
Nest thermostats
Smart electrical devices, like Nest thermostats or IoT-connected circuit breakers, enable real-time energy monitoring and control, improving efficiency and user experience.