Leggett & Platt Commercial Vehicle Products has just introduced eCoupled technology to wirelessly power its mobile workspace surfaces and storage areas. With eCoupled technology, workspace efficiency is increased because its wireless power eliminates power cords and battery chargers on the jobsite.
The company’s new eCoupled-equipped products made their debut at the 2008 Work Truck Show in Atlanta, where Leggett & Platt CVP was awarded the "new product spotlight" award for this innovative product by show attendees.
Leggett’s use of eCoupled technology transforms ordinary work and storage surfaces into wireless charging centers.
“Wireless power simplifies on-the-road charging maintenance for the commercial truck industry by eliminating the need for portable charging devices and electrical outlets,” said Ross Haith, group vice president sales and marketing for Leggett & Platt Commercial Vehicle Products. “Our vehicles with eCoupled technology enhance the mobile workspace so our customers can work more efficiently at the jobsite.”
As part of an exclusive partnership with Fulton Innovation, the creators of eCoupled, Leggett will integrate this ground-breaking technology into its vehicle interior shelving systems, rugged docking stations and vehicle mounts.
Leggett commercial and specialized vehicles equipped with eCoupled technology will hit the market by 2009.
Harnessing eCoupled Technology
Wireless power uses inductive coupling to transfer energy from Leggett’s commercial charging surfaces to any eCoupled-compatible device. Coils strategically placed in the surface areas adapt eCoupled technology’s operation to match the needs of the devices it powers.
The eCoupled surface communicates with devices to determine not only its power needs, but also battery life and charging lifecycles. This two-way communication keeps devices running at peak efficiency.
Once placed on an eCoupled-enabled surface, devices charge at a rate comparable to traditional power sources. Additionally, Leggett’s commercial surfaces with eCoupled technology can charge multiple devices regardless of varying voltage requirements.
In terms of energy costs, eCoupled wireless power maximizes energy transfer efficiency at nearly 98 percent. This rate of efficiency makes eCoupled technology comparable to traditional power sources.
A Safer Form of Power
“Because eCoupled technology is wireless power, it does not rely on electrical outlets to supply energy,” said Haith. “This offers devices protection from electrical surges and greatly reduces the risk of electrical shock since there is no need for exposed metal connectors.”
“Advancements in technology have made a tremendous impact on our world and in our lives,” said Haith. “There is no doubt that bringing wireless power to the commercial vehicle industry can transform the mobile worksite and the lives of those who work within it.”
For more information on Leggett & Platt Commercial Vehicle Products equipped with eCoupled technology, visit www.leggettcvp-ecoupled.com.