SunCubes uses invisible laser beams to transfer electrical energy wirelessly, and thanks to its advanced design, it ensures safe transmission while minimizing losses from diffraction and weather conditions. The potential applications are vast: from charging drones in mid-flight to powering sensors and cameras in remote locations.
Alberto, in 2022, SunCubes earned third place at #T-TeC. How did that experience help evolve the project, and where are you now?
#T-TeC was a game-changer for SunCubes. It was our first chance to present our idea to a panel of space industry experts, giving us invaluable feedback and helping us build strategic connections. That recognition gave us credibility and visibility, pushing us to turn our ambitious idea into a working prototype. Today, thanks to that experience, we've made great strides, including successful tests with Leonardo in 2023.
This refers to the Test-It Award, a proof of concept from Leonardo. Can you tell us how it went, what challenges you faced, and what milestones you've reached?
The Test-It Award from Leonardo was a pivotal moment for validating our technology in a real-world setting. We carried out tests at the Venegono site, successfully transmitting energy over 600 meters with incredible precision—under 1mm. The main challenges were fine-tuning the pointing system and integrating the optics to minimize energy losses. This achievement not only proved the technical viability of our solution but also highlighted its potential for future applications.
In March 2024, you took another big step by joining the ESA BIC incubator in Milan. What advantages has this brought, and how is it affecting your project’s development?
Being part of the ESA BIC in Milan has provided the perfect environment to grow. The integrated support we’ve received—funding, access to cutting-edge labs, and technical mentoring—has allowed us to speed up our product development, refine our system’s design, and strengthen our market strategy. Plus, being connected to an international network like ESA has significantly boosted our visibility and opened up new collaboration opportunities.
What practical applications do you see for SunCubes, especially in areas like sustainability and energy supply in remote locations?
SunCubes has the potential to transform energy management across many industries. For example, our technology can enable continuous monitoring of critical infrastructure or sensitive areas using drones, reducing the need for batteries and cutting emissions related to logistics. In remote locations, we can provide power to sensors and cameras, ensuring uninterrupted operation without the need for frequent maintenance. This solution is especially valuable in fields like environmental protection, surveillance, and industrial monitoring.
Looking ahead, what are your medium- and long-term goals for SunCubes?
In the medium term, our goal is to complete the development of our system for industrial and commercial applications, with a focus on in-flight drone charging. In the long term, we aim to expand into strategic sectors like defense and space, developing even more advanced power-beaming solutions. Ultimately, we want to become a global leader in wireless energy transmission, contributing to both sustainability and technological innovation.
What advice would you give to young innovators who want to present their ideas at #T-TeC?
#T-TeC is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to take their idea to the next level. Our advice is to prepare thoroughly, presenting a clear, well-structured proposal that not only highlights the technological innovation but also demonstrates its practical applications and market potential. It’s also important to be open to feedback and use it to refine your idea. Engaging with the experts involved in #T-TeC is a unique opportunity to grow and develop a solid, impactful project.