Inductive charging and its advantages for industry

Inductive charging is widely used in the automotive, telecommunications, and logistics industries. This technology enables wireless recharging of electrical devices safely, automatically, and without human intervention. It’s gaining ground thanks to its ability to streamline processes and minimize downtime.

In this post, we explain what inductive charging is, how it works, its advantages over traditional charging systems, and its main applications in the industrial sector.

What is inductive charging?

Inductive charging — also known as induction, wireless, or cordless charging — is a technology based on inductive coupling through coils. Instead of using the cables found in traditional charging systems, energy is transferred via alternating magnetic fields generated between an aligned transmitter and receiver. When an alternating current flows through the transmitter, it creates a magnetic field that induces voltage in the receiver, charging a device’s battery. Some advanced systems combine inductive charging with supercapacitors — devices that store large amounts of energy and allow even more efficient, faster recharging.

Inductive charging can be used to power vehicles such as electric forklifts and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). Because no cables are required, the machine can automatically position itself at a dedicated station and begin recharging on its own. This significantly increases operational productivity, as workers don’t have to interrupt their tasks to manage battery charging.

Difference between inductive and wired charging

Wired and inductive charging differ in how they interact with electric current. This considerably affects the design of electrical systems in homes and industrial environments.

Benefits of inductive charging

Inductive charging offers several advantages over traditional wired methods:

• Simplicity. No cables are required. Simply placing the device on the charging pad initiates the process automatically. This eliminates connector wear and shortens handling time, making everyday use easier.
• Improved safety. It’s ideal for environments with moisture, dust, or chemicals that could compromise traditional systems. With no exposed connection points, risks are minimized.
• Seamless integration with automated solutions. Inductive charging enables robots and autonomous vehicles to recharge without human intervention.
• Cleaner, more durable designs. A lack of wires means more organized spaces and fewer tangles. Doing away with friction-prone and moving parts reduces mechanical wear, extending equipment service life.

Inductive charging not only improves convenience — it also enhances process efficiency and equipment reliability across multiple industries.

Inductive charging applications in warehousing

In facilities with automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), efficiency and uninterrupted operations are essential. AGV robots, AMRs, and the 3D Automated Pallet Shuttle are now key tools for optimizing internal goods transport due to their ability to move autonomously, safely, and precisely. Advanced and automated charging systems are critical to ensure continuous performance.

Interlake Mecalux’s AMRs are a prime example of inductive charging in action. They incorporate this technology to transfer energy without cables or mechanical connectors. The AMRs charge wirelessly between operations or while waiting at designated stations. This eliminates the need for manual connections in traditional charging zones and enables quick battery recovery, maximizing uptime.

Interlake Mecalux’s AMR 1500 and 100 models come equipped with lithium batteries and inductive charging systems. Charging is managed by fleet management software, which monitors each unit’s battery level in real time. When a robot reaches a minimum energy threshold, the system instructs it to head to a charging station, preventing unexpected downtime. This entire process is carried out autonomously, with no need for additional systems.

Beyond robotic solutions, inductive charging is also being introduced progressively in other warehouse devices. Some electric forklift models now feature wireless charging to reduce component wear and enhance operational safety. Similarly, certain robotic cleaning systems automatically recharge themselves after completing their work cycles.

Wireless charging accelerates industrial automation

Wireless charging, combined with automated energy management, ensures continuous equipment performance without disrupting factory or warehouse operations. Additionally, integrating advanced technologies such as supercapacitors speeds up charging cycles and maximizes device availability, further boosting productivity.