12 finalists to develop wireless power solutions in element14 design competition

CHICAGO, USA: The award winning and first-of-its-kind element14 Community has selected 12 finalists in the "Beyond the Phone" Wireless Power Challenge. The finalists were chosen from hundreds of submissions around the world to build wireless power solutions for everyday devices.

The competition aims to liberate design engineers from the tether of traditional power supplies, and ultimately bring wirelessly controlled devices to consumers. Following a challenge in 2013, this is element14's second wireless power competition, and the proposed projects are have evolved significantly.

"The quality of the submissions we received was incredible," said Dianne Kibbey, global head of community at element14. "Some of the proposed builds will provide modern conveniences in the home or office, while others could actually help save lives. The element14 Community was there during the early stages of wireless power development, and we're proud to help it reach its full potential by sponsoring these 12 unique design projects from around the world."

Competitors will have from March 24 until June 27, 2014 to complete their projects using the Wireless Power Solution Transfer Kit, which is produced by both Texas Instruments (TI) and Wurth Electronics. Participants will also receive a budget of $275 for additional components, courtesy of TI, and a 12-month CadSoft Pro License.

"Wurth's Wireless Power kit provides Qi-compliant contact-less charging, a plug-and-play 5W wireless power transfer, complete development boards for easy integration and much more," said Simon Leuz, distribution sales manager EMEA, Wurth Electronics. "We are excited to partner with element14 to bring wireless power solutions to engineers everywhere."