Brain-wracking researches from scientists across the globe in harnessing solar, tidal and geo-thermal energy in producing energy is not new as evidenced from the invention of diversified “green gadgets” to keep our environment clean and green. Nobody has ever thought of harnessing noise, the distorted form of sound energy as a renewable resource of energy. The credit goes to four students of American University of Sharjah for inventing a brilliant device for producing power from noise. Still, at the initial stages of experimentation and application, this unique device can pave way for an alternative source of energy production, especially in those countries, where a considerable amount of noise can be harnessed for this purpose.
Although the students have not succeeded in mass power production through big power producing plants, still this device has high potentialities to be used through a number of applications due to its ability in tapping the ultrasonic waves. This harnessing of sound energy has been possible through the use of piezoelectric technology that transforms noise and other forms of sound energy into power, resulting in a much cleaner and greener environment. Based on the simple concept of energy conservation, the students have devised this extraordinary application, though the path of transformation may not be so simple.
Peizoelectric technology involves the harnessing of any mechanical vibration or strain in certain types of ceramics, quartz, crystals or in any tourmaline crystals. Peizoelectric materials generate electricity in response to any mechanical vibrations or force. It can even generate power from the sound waves inaudible to human ears.
This groundbreaking device can convert noise created by simple movements, thundering stadium or that from footsteps into power. There is enough scope to install the device in speed bumps to trap the mechanical vibrations and sound waves produced by fast moving vehicles, and convert them into electrical energy that can be used for street lighting connecting with the supply grid. Smaller versions of this device can also be used to charge common electronic appliance like cell phone or iPod. The next step will obviously remain focused in creating affordable noise trapping devices for commercial and domestic applications.
Trapping the alternate natural energy sources is not new but looking beyond the conventional sources has fetched them the recognition from the prestigious Institute for Engineering and Technology (IET).
Via: GreenProphet
