Tiny Generator Runs Off Vibrations

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."

Comments

Erm..

[Rob T Firefly]

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. Ladies and gentlemen, presenting the heart-powered pacemaker! From the same geniuses that brought you solar-powered flashlights, pedal-powered crutches, and a voice-controlled version of Stephen Hawking's talk box.

Re:Erm..

[achilles777033]

A pacemaker doesn't beat a heart. It sends a signal (sets a pace) to cause a heart to beat of it's own accord. It is possible that the vibrations from that much moving flesh/blood could translate into an useful amount of energy back into the battery.

The solution to the global energy crisis!

[cubicle_cowboy]

Attach a few of these to Shakira's rear end and play "Hey Ya!" on repeat.

Now where's my Nobel prize?

Re:Old tech

[AKAImBatman]

Couple this with a nice, but small capacitor, with a capacity for 2-3 shocks (probably 5-15mA per discharge will be sufficient), and you've got a nice little pacemaker that recharges itself.

Amusingly, self-charging pacemakers have existed for the better part of 40 years. Pacemakers used to be powered by radioisotopes which had a power-producing lifespan far in excess of the patient's remaining expected lifespan. The only catch with such pacemakers was that they had to be removed after death to recover the valuable Pu-238 materials for remanufacturing and reuse.

According to this article by a Dr. David Prutchi PhD, the devices fell out of favor due to the availability of lithium batteries capable of lasting a decade before replacement. However, one does have to wonder if the public fear of all things nuclear didn't contribute to the downfall of such devices.

Re:Old tech

[geekoid]

Also, sometime they would leak and create 40 foot people that would rampage around the desert; which is a good thing, because someone had to stamp on those giant ants.

Re:Old tech

[red_dragon]

I distinctly remember being told about "psycho-kinetic" watches...

What you actually heard was the phrase "Seiko Kinetic"; their advertisements clearly showed the mechanical parts of the charging mechanism, and made no reference to "psycho" power, whatever that might be. There's more info on it on Seiko's website.