Implantable Microfluidic Energy Harvester for Skiing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for generating electrical energy on skis and snowboards are prone to breakage due to additional parts, which are not efficient in converting mechanical energy into electrical energy effectively.
Innovation Solution
An implantable microfluidic device is integrated into the ski or snowboard core, utilizing the mechanical energy from muscle expansion and contraction or vibrations to convert into electrical energy through a system of immiscible liquids and electrodes, allowing for direct power to portable devices or battery charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a generator assembly with rotor is mounted on the ski, then electrical energy can be generated through frictional contact with the ground, but the additional parts are prone to breakage and reduce reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the power generation function directly into the ski core structure by embedding a generator within the core, eliminating separate mounted generator assemblies. This merging of functions reduces the number of external parts that could break while maintaining electrical energy generation capability through the ski's structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical friction-based rotor system with a piezoelectric or electromagnetic generator embedded in the core that converts mechanical energy from skiing movements directly into electrical energy. This substitution eliminates the need for frictional contact with the ground and external rotor assemblies, improving reliability while maintaining power generation
2Power
If traditional generator assemblies are mounted on skis, then electrical energy can be produced, but the conversion efficiency of mechanical energy to electrical energy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs piezoelectric materials or electromagnetic generators embedded in the ski core that directly convert mechanical energy from bending and vibration during skiing into electrical energy with higher efficiency. This replaces the inefficient friction-based mechanical systems with more advanced energy conversion mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the generator's operational parameters by designing it to respond to the specific range of motions and forces experienced during skiing. The embedded generator is positioned and configured to maximize energy capture from the ski's natural bending and vibration patterns, improving conversion efficiency
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides a durable and efficient method to generate electrical energy, enabling prolonged battery life for portable electronics and heating devices without the drawbacks of previous systems, by leveraging the mechanical energy from skiing or snowboarding.
Implementation Method 1
The implantable power supply converting mechanical energy of the body, such as the expansion and contraction of muscles into electrical energy using microfluidics or mechanical strain
Implementation Method 2
utilizing the mechanical energy from muscle expansion and contraction or vibrations to convert into electrical energy through a system of immiscible liquids and electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
A ski or snowboard having an interface power source is provided. The power source uses reverse electrowetting technology to generate a charge to power devices connected to the interface. The power source includes a flexible, non-conductive substrate having a first side and a second side opposite the first side with a channel between the first and second sides. Electrodes are arranged about the channel in a predefined pattern. A liquid is contained in the channel. The liquid includes a dielectric liquid and a conductive liquid that do not mix. The electric change is generated by moving the liquid back and forth across the electrodes. The force to pump or move the liquid is provided by motion of the ski or snowboard.