The application of electromagnetic surface waves to wireless energy transfer

The use of guided electromagnetic waves for the wireless transmission of electrical energy has long been the subject of scientific investigation. While attention is presently focused on the near-field inductive and far-field radiative techniques there is ongoing interest, as well, in the possibility of using a terrestrial transmission line mode for wireless power transfer. A history of surface wave theory development is provided, along with comments about the basic functionality of Tesla's original designs.