While we've seen many notable wireless charging innovations of late, sometimes a little elegance can be all it takes to stand out from the crowd. Slovenian-based Lutman Design has developed Swich, a functional wireless charging stand made from sustainable materials, with a stylish design inspired by crashing ocean waves.
Lutman says that its main objective in the development of Swich was to create something easy on the eyes, but equally usable for the app-dependent, hyper-connected smartphone users of today. The stand consists of an American walnut stem atop a ceramic base, with an acrylic foam sheet with in micro-suction caps covering the resting pad up top. The company says this will serve to hold the smooth, flat surface of the majority of phone cases in place and enable easy access while the device charges.
The stand itself is 12 cm (4.7 in) tall and measures 6.5 x 10.5 cm (2.6 x 4.1 in) at its base. The charging pad holds the phone at a 45 degree angle and is adjustable, with a 180 degree rotation enabling users to easily change between vertical and horizontal use.
The company says the 5V charger can deliver 1,000 mA with a charging efficiency of 73 percent within a range of 5-7 mm (0.2-0.27 in).
While some smartphones have wireless charging capabilities out of the box, others, such as the iPhone, will require a receiver in the form of either a patch or a case. With Swich currently the subject of a Kickstarter campaign, Lutman is looking to make the transition smooth for those charging their phone via more conventional means – by pledging an additional US$10, the packege will include a patch or a case depending on your phone type (providing the campaign runs as planned).
Swich is available in black and white, and if the campaign is successful, an early pledge of $140 will have one of the wireless charging stands sent your way. Shipping slated for November 2014.
You can hear from the team in the pitch video below.
Source: Lutman Design