What is near field magnetic induction?
For the sake of brevity—and for the sake of addressing the white elephant as soon as possible—near field magnetic induction (NFMI) is the use of magnetic fields to allow two nearby devices to communicate and share information with each other.
Through the use of a transmitted coil generating a magnetic field, devices implanted with a receiver coil can receive the transmitted information wirelessly.
How does near field magnetic induction work?
Well before the human species had any meaningful mathematical framework to explain the phenomena surrounding electromagnetism, self-taught physicist Michael Faraday discovered that it was possible to induce an electromotive force by simply running a current through a magnetic substance.
His law of induction, therefore, is not only evidence that it’s possible to contribute to science without an understanding of either math or science, but is also integral to understanding electromagnetism.
The application of Faraday’s law—and the mathematical model as explained by James Clerk Maxwell’s equations—suggests an understanding of electromagnetism as a far-field force. Near field induction, however, is specifically effective for a typical range of approximately less than two metres.
Why is near field magnetic induction important?
The ultimate question then becomes: why bother utilizing near-field technology, when it simply makes more sense to induce more energy in order to utilize far field communication? The simply answer becomes: when it’s more logical to utilize near field communication. Certain hearing aids, for instance, utilize NFMI technology in order to deliver sound through the inner ear—instead of simply acting as a microphone to direct sound into one’s ear.
What is the future of near field magnetic induction?
According to a number of trustworthy and untrustworthy sources, history buffs and conspiracy theorists, as well as those generally interested in his life, Nikolai Tesla was mere moments away from not only discovering wireless energy transmission, but also patenting it and challenging Thomas Edison’s dominance in the electric generation industry. History shows that Edison won that alleged battle, and the human race was relegated to antiquated and dangerous modes of electricity transmission due to Edison’s arrogance and ego. The story of Tesla and Edison, however, is not one of David against Goliath, but an opportunity to dream about the possibilities. Those who dream of the wireless transmission of electricity envision a world not reliant on alternating or direct current, but a world capable of utilizing wireless energy transmission to maximize energy output, and also minimize the overall cost of electricity.
NFMI might not necessarily be anything more than a scientific quirk used to sell hearing aids and wireless listening devices, but the implications of such a technology hint at a great understanding and appreciation of science as a whole.
Today, mobile phone enthusiasts are capable of transmitting energy utilizing near field communication (NFC) and charging devices using wireless charging pads. Intricate wireless charging pads utilize the principles of inductive charging, where a coil in a charging plate and device interact to create an electromagnetic field to transmit energy. I look to a wireless tomorrow where we are no longer hindered by cords and cables to connect us to our energy needs. I look to a world where, through the power of electromagnetism, we are no longer held back by the electric standards of the past.
As always, I’m excited for the truly absurd possibilities.