Self-charging smartwatches and health trackers could be a step closer following the development of tiny mechanical devices powered by movement, a study suggests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The new mechanisms \u2013 which are twice as powerful as similar existing devices \u2013 could offer an energy-efficient and sustainable alternative to batteries used in wearable technologies, researchers say.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Engineers from the University of Edinburgh have developed a technique to create versatile materials that generate electricity by harnessing energy produced by movement of the human body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The method \u2013 devised by a team of three PhD students \u2013 creates so-called piezoelectric materials more quickly and efficiently than previous techniques, potentially making it easier to scale up production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The team devised this new approach by tweaking the chemistry used in the production of ultrafine fibres of a material called PVDF, a versatile substance that generates electricity when pressure is applied to it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
By using a high-voltage power supply the researchers can make 3D sponge-like materials from the fibres, which are then cut into 1cm2 pieces, fitted with electrodes and wires, and encased in silicon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tests of the devices\u2019 power output show they can produce 40 microwatts of electricity per square centimetre \u2013 twice as much as the most powerful type of existing piezoelectric generator.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Further development of the structures could extend the life of \u2013 or even replace \u2013 conventional batteries in wearable technologies, helping to reduce electronic waste and energy consumption, researchers say.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The materials could also have applications in the next generation of smart textiles and be woven into products such as motion-sensing clothes and t-shirts that monitor breathing and heart rate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n