(editor's note: Vibrations of energy have made scientists take note of some new uses for this power- to possibly replace low power batteries!
In my daily treks through the news files of the world I'm amazed at the depth and scope of emerging science technologies! In the bigger picture of our changing world, we understand that these are stepping stones towards joining our Galactic community of scientists.
~All my Love, Boo)
Can Minor Vibrations Replaces Batteries in Power Sensors, Radio Transmitters and GPS Modules?
The freight train races through the landscape at high speed, the train cars clattering along the tracks. The cars are rudely shaken, back and forth. The rougher the tracks, the more severe the shaking. This vibration delivers enough energy to charge small electronic equipment: this is how the sensors that monitor temperatures in refrigerator cars, or GPS receivers, can receive the current they need to run.
Experts refer to this underlying technology as "energy harvesting," where energy is derived from everyday sources such as temperature or pressure differences, air currents, mechanical movements or vibrations.
But is this really enough to supply electronic microsystems? The answer is provided by a data logger that is also installed on board, a product by the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits. This compact system analyzes and characterizes the potential of usable energy -- in this case, the oscillations created during the ride.
