In the future we may be able to use our own bodies to power our wearable devices.
Futurism explains:
“A team of researchers at the University of Colorado at Boulder have developed a wearable that can tap into its wearer’s natural body heat to virtually turn the human body into a battery, no lithium-ion battery required.
The bendy device can shape itself to be in contact with the contours of the skin and can be worn like a ring or bracelet.
So far, the small device can generate a single volt of energy. While that doesn’t sound like a lot, it’s already enough to power small-scale electronics including watches or fitness trackers.
The device works thanks to a series of thin thermoelectric chips being inserted into a base made out of a stretchy composite called polyimine. Liquid metal wires connect these chips to allow for a current to flow.
The concept is simple. As the skin heats up, the thermal energy radiates outwards. The device takes advantage of this flow rather than letting the radiated heat go to waste.”
Considering how likely it is that we’ll be adorned in the future with electronic skin, smart clothing, AR infused glasses, and multiple kinds of wearable devices it makes sense to start thinking about how we’ll power it all. A device that takes advantage of our own body heat and can be worn as a ring or bracelet will definitely come in handy.
Leave a comment