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Tiny Generator Runs Off Vibrations

Posted by kdawson on from the shaken-not-stirred dept.

Warbothong writes "Researchers at Southampton University in the UK have developed a tiny generator that uses local vibrations to output microwatts of power. The device is smaller than one cubic centimeter. It shows promise as an alternative to batteries for applications where frequent battery replacement would not be feasible. The devices are currently being used in industry where 'there is the potential for embedding sensors in previously inaccessible locations,' but its creators imagine it could be used in devices such as pacemakers, where the beating of the heart would produce ample movement to power the magnetic mechanism."

3 of 182 comments (clear)

  1. Profit by EinZweiDrei · · Score: 0, Redundant

    1. Researchers slave night and day to create vibration-powered generator, forsaking house and home in the process.
    2. Researchers' wives, frustrated, generate a harnessable amount of localized vibrations.
    3. ????????
    4. Profit!

    --
    Perhaps life really is full of possibilities.
  2. Heart powered pacemaker by aicrules · · Score: 1, Redundant

    wouldn't that be some sort of paradox...

  3. Contrary to physical law? by rehtonAesoohC · · Score: 0, Redundant

    but its creators imagine it could be used in devices such as pacemakers, where the beating of the heart would produce ample movement to power the magnetic mechanism

    Wouldn't this be contrary to the law of conservation of energy that states that energy cannot be created? IE- The heart beats, producing enough energy to power the pacemaker, which in turn produces enough energy to power the heart, which in turn produces enough energy to power the pacemaker... etc?