At Techno Frontier 2010, Omron exhibited a compact vibration-powered generator, which can utilize tiny environmental vibrations as an energy source.
This device can effectively utilize the tiny vibrations from factory machinery, vehicles, and bridges as a source of energy.
By combining this generator with a sensor and wireless module, it can be used to transmit sensor data, such as temperature and pressure, without needing cables or batteries.
"Our system uses an electret material, enabling power to be obtained by varying the amount of static electricity. If the vibration frequency is 30 Hz, this generator delivers 100 microwatts. An acceleration of 0.15G is enough, so this device can generate power even if the object doesn't appear to be moving very much."
This compact device weighs less than 4 g, so it can be mounted on a board like ordinary components. One feature is that its structure prevents vibration from causing stress on the generating part. So the generating performance doesn't deteriorate, even with continuous vibration.
This device has been used successfully to run actual sensor modules.
"There's been talk of using this generator in systems for detecting motor malfunction, or monitoring the deterioration of highways. So we're using it on a trial basis in those kinds of applications."
"We're developing this device with the aim of releasing it two years from now, in 2012. From now on, we'll do reliability testing, to check how durable it is and how long it lasts. Then, we'll make sure it can be mass-produced easily, and release it as a commercial product."
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Techno-Frontier 2010
