Leggett & Platt Announces Development of Innovative Uses for Wireless Technology
Leggett's first application of the technology debuted at the 2008 Work Truck Show in February. The Leggett & Platt Commercial Vehicle Products group showcased eCoupled technology that was integrated into interior shelving systems, rugged docking stations and vehicle mounts of commercial vehicles such as work trucks, emergency response vehicles and vans. Out of nearly 80 new product introductions at the Work Truck Show, Leggett received the New Product Innovation award.
"Leggett's use of wireless power technology demonstrates our commitment to develop innovative products through the use of new and advanced technologies with applications across many markets," said David S. Haffner, Leggett & Platt President and Chief Executive Officer.
Leggett identified eCoupled technology for potential applications when it was unveiled by Fulton Innovation at the Consumer Electronics Show in 2007. Within ten months, Leggett had entered into its agreement with Fulton Innovation and developed the first working prototype, which was unveiled at the 2008 Work Truck Show. Leggett anticipates its commercial and emergency vehicle products equipped with eCoupled technology will be in the market by early 2009.
Leggett's partnership with Fulton Innovation allows it to extend the use of eCoupled technology across multiple markets including retail store fixtures and point-of-purchase displays; commercial/industrial storage, shelving systems, work surfaces and food service preparation equipment; specialized commercial and emergency response vehicle power delivery applications; residential and bedroom furniture; and mattresses, mattress support and bedroom furniture.
How eCoupled Technology Works
Fulton Innovation's eCoupled technology is wireless power that uses an inductively coupled circuit to transfer power from surfaces to eCoupled-compatible devices. Secondary coils strategically placed in the surface areas adapt eCoupled technology's operation to match the needs of the devices it powers.
The eCoupled surface communicates with devices to determine not only its power needs, but also battery life and charging lifecycles. This two-way communication keeps devices running at peak efficiency.
Once placed on an eCoupled-enabled surface, devices charge at a rate comparable to traditional power sources. Additionally, eCoupled technology can charge multiple devices regardless of varying voltage requirements.
In terms of energy costs, eCoupled wireless power maximizes energy transfer efficiency at nearly 98 percent. This rate of efficiency makes eCoupled technology comparable to traditional hardwired power sources.
"At Leggett, we embrace new technology like eCoupled as an opportunity to grow in today's competitive global market," said Vincent Lyons, Leggett's Vice President of Engineering and Product Development and President of the Machinery and Technology Group. "The versatility of eCoupled technology offers Leggett the potential for new product development across multiple company sectors."
COMPANY DESCRIPTION: Leggett & Platt (NYSE: LEG) is a FORTUNE 500 diversified manufacturer that conceives, designs and produces a broad variety of engineered components and products that can be found in virtually every home, office, retail store, and automobile. The company serves a broad suite of customers that comprise a "Who's Who" of U.S. manufacturers and retailers. The 125-year-old firm's continuing operations are composed of 22 business units, 24,000 employee-partners, and more than 250 facilities located in 20 countries.
Leggett & Platt is North America's leading independent manufacturer of: a) components for residential furniture and bedding; b) retail store fixtures and point of purchase displays; c) components for office furniture; d) drawn steel wire; e) automotive seat support and lumbar systems; f) carpet underlay; g) adjustable beds; and h) bedding industry machinery for wire forming, sewing and quilting.
SOURCE Leggett & Platt