Researchers create fabric that converts body heat Into electricity
We've all heard of solar power and wind power, but researchers at Wake Forest are developing another alternative form of power: thermoelectrics. They've created a fabric -- comprised of tiny carbon nanotubes -- that can convert body heat into an electric charge.
[More from Mashable: What to Do When Your Social Media Strategy Is Successful [VIDEO]]
The device, called Power Felt, uses temperature differences to create electricity.
“We waste a lot of energy in the form of heat. For example, recapturing a car’s energy waste could help improve fuel mileage and power the radio, air conditioning or navigation system,” graduate student Corey Hewitt Hewitt says. “Generally thermoelectrics are an underdeveloped technology for harvesting energy, yet there is so much opportunity.”
[More from Mashable: Researchers Use 3D Printing to Create Robotic Dinosaurs [VIDEO]]
How might we see Power Felt used in practical applications? The researchers say it could line car seats for a battery boost or line clothing garments to power devices that monitor performance or your iPod -- among other uses.
“Imagine it in an emergency kit, wrapped around a flashlight, powering a weather radio, charging a prepaid cellphone,” says David Carroll, director of the Center for Nanotechnology and Molecular Materials and head of the team leading this research. “Literally, just by sitting on your phone, Power Felt could provide relief during power outages or accidents.”
The researchers are still looking for ways to improve the device, but the university is also in talks with investors to bring Power Felt to the market. end quote.
I think this is a great idea for charging cell phones from body heat and something the size of IPads as well. We'll see what the future brings.
OK. I figured out how to reach the video. First you click on the large "Mashable" near the top of the article. Then you feed into the search window there "
OK. I figured out how to reach the video. First you click on the large "Mashable" near the top of the article. Then you feed into the search window there "
No comments:
Post a Comment