Arbitrary Wireless Energy Distribution within an Epsilon Near-zero Environment

Efficient power distribution to multiple receivers with controlled amounts is critical for wireless communication and sensing systems. Previous efforts have attempted to improve power transfer efficiency through strong coupling and parity-time (PT) symmetry, providing attractive opportunities for flexible energy flow control. In this study, a novel method for achieving arbitrary power distribution is proposed and numerically demonstrated by leveraging the unique properties inside an epsilon near-zero (ENZ) environment. Specifically, it shows that the power from a single source can be transferred to multiple receivers inside an ENZ medium with negligible loss by modifying optical properties of receivers rather than introducing sophisticated active control modules. Importantly, full power transfer is independent of the size and shape of the ENZ medium, as well as the positions of the receivers and source. A realizable system is further designed with effective zero index at microwave frequencies to confirm the high efficiency of energy transfer. The innovative approach, employing photonic doping for advanced and efficient wireless power transfer, may shed light on the new generation of energy efficient communication/sensing systems with versatile control functionalities. The distinctive characteristics of an Epsilon Near Zero (ENZ) environment enable the arbitrary distribution of energy among the source (S) and receivers (R) in wireless power transfer, eliminating the need for complex configurations and communications.image