That is an old farmall steering wheel for my international A that I am rebuilding.
The tubes are my modified tesla coils for doing wireless power transfer experiments. And yes it does really work!
Tesla was not blowing smoke on that one!
I have been able to transmit and recieve about 40 watts at 15 feet or so. The receiver coil uses a second drop down ( not pictured) coil that allows it to produce a lower frequency and lower voltage with much higher current. That can then be rectified using regular high speed swithing diodes and then filtered to give smooth 12 volt DC at around 3 amps. Shunt regulation is still needed though.
And the transmitter coil power source does actualy show a loading effect as the reciever is drawn on. (watt meter confirmed too)
Its not inductive coupling. With the right size and shape antenie the reciever will still pick up the power at a 90 degree angle to the transmitter.
And no I cant explain it either. I am just as bewildered as you!