Self sufficient wireless transmitter powered by foot-pumped urine operating wearable MFC

Bioinspir Biomim. 2015 Dec 10;11(1):016001. doi: 10.1088/1748-3190/11/1/016001.

Abstract

The first self-sufficient system, powered by a wearable energy generator based on microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology is introduced. MFCs made from compliant material were developed in the frame of a pair of socks, which was fed by urine via a manual gaiting pump. The simple and single loop cardiovascular fish circulatory system was used as the inspiration for the design of the manual pump. A wireless programmable communication module, engineered to operate within the range of the generated electricity, was employed, which opens a new avenue for research in the utilisation of waste products for powering portable as well as wearable electronics.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bioelectric Energy Sources*
  • Biomimetics / instrumentation*
  • Clothing
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Fishes / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Micro-Electrical-Mechanical Systems / instrumentation*
  • Rheology / instrumentation
  • Urine / chemistry*
  • Wireless Technology / instrumentation*