Scientists a way to turn the human body into a “biological battery” through a low-cost, wearable device. Using a small thermoelectric generator that can be worn as a ring or bracelet, researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder were able to convert body heat into enough electricity to power an electronic device. The scientists’ findings were published in the scientific journal “Science Advances,” which is managed by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).
This invention is somewhat reminiscent of "The Matrix," where robots have enslaved humanity, using people's bodies as batteries, drawing their energy.
The device can generate about 1 volt of energy per square centimeter of skin — less energy per area than most existing batteries. Still, it's enough to power electronic devices like watches or fitness trackers. The wearable device could be adapted to power and eliminate the need for batteries in pacemakers, drug delivery pumps and other medical devices, the researchers said.
The technology in question combines a flexible material called polyimine, thermoelectric chips , and liquid metal wires that can be worn either on your wrist or as a ring on your finger.
Jianliang Xiao, senior author of the paper and associate professor in the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering at UC Boulder, said: “In the future, we want to be able to power wearable electronic deviceswithout needing a battery. Whenever you use a battery, you use it up and eventually you have to replace it. The great thing about our thermoelectric device is that you can wear it and it provides you with constant power.”
Its flexibility and strength mean that all it needs is close contact with the skin to convert a person's body heat into electricity.
"Our design makes the whole system stretchable without putting too much stress on the thermoelectric material, which can be really fragile," Xiao said, adding that any extra heat generated through exercise could also be captured and converted into electricity.
Also, the material from which the wearable device is made makes it recyclable, while also giving it the ability to self-heal, which means that if it tears, it can stick together on its own within minutes.
Researchers predict that the device that turns the body into a "biological battery" could be on the market in 5-10 years.
