A team of researchers at the University of Washington (UW) has created a flexible electronic prototype capable of generating electricity using only body heat. This elastic prototype can power small electronic devices, such as LEDs, and is resistant to punctures and stretching, maintaining its functionality even after being stretched more than 2,000 times.
The breakthrough, presented in the journal Advanced Materialsemploys thermoelectric technology that efficiently converts body heat into electricity. Traditionally, devices that use thermal energy have been rigid and fragile, making them impractical for use on the skin. However, this new UW prototype is highly flexible and adaptable, allowing it to adhere comfortably to the skin, making it ideal for wearable applications.
Design of the flexible electronic prototype
The team led by Mohammad Malakooti, assistant professor of mechanical engineering at the UW, designed this device using simulations to find the best materials and structures to optimize energy conversion. The device consists of three main layers. At the center, there are thermoelectric semiconductors that convert heat into electricity. These layers are surrounded by 3D printed composites that enhance energy conversion. energy conversion and reduce the weight of the device. In addition, the layers are connected by traces of liquid metal, which provides elasticity and self-healing.
A key feature of this device is the integration of liquid metal droplets in the outer layers, which increases heat transfer and helps maintain flexibility. This entire design was developed in Malakootiti’s Malakooti’s laboratorywith the exception of the semiconductors.
This device harnesses energy from body heat and converts it into electricity. Source: University of Washington
New technology harnesses heat to save energy
While this device has great potential for improving wearable devices such as fitness trackers, the team also sees its use in other areas. It could be applied to heat-generating electronic systems, such as servers in data centers. These devices could capture excess heat generated and convert it into energy to power temperature and humidity sensors, which would help reduce overall energy consumption and create more sustainable autonomous systems.
In addition, the researchers hope that in the future, the technology could be used to heat or cool surfaces, which would open up possibilities for its application in virtual reality systems. virtual reality or other portable accessories that can simulate thermal sensations on the skin.
This work has been made possible through the collaboration of researchers such as Youngshang Han, a doctoral student at the UW, and Halil Tetik, now an assistant professor at the Izmir Institute of Technology. The research has been funded by the National Science Foundation, Meta and The Boeing Company, among other sponsors, highlighting the commitment to the development of sustainable and state-of-the-art and state-of-the-art technologies.
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Source and photo: University of Washington
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