Researchers have learned how to charge your smartphone by walking

In search of alternative energy, researchers sometimes come up with amazing technologies. Chinese researchers have managed to develop a device that can generate electricity from bending the knee when walking. The created sensor can be an excellent feed for wearable electronics and other devices.

Engineers of the Chinese University of Hong Kong solved the issue of energy generation from the knee joint. The designed portable sensor is installed on three points of the leg: calf, Knee, and Shin. A rod is attached to a special bandage, which is held on the human thigh. Another bandage is fixed on the calf. While walking, a special slider makes translational movements.

Strips of polymer and carbon fiber placed on the ends of the rod allow generating energy. During the tests, the researchers managed to achieve a power of 1.6 microbats. To achieve it, the speed from 2 to 6.5 km/h is enough — that is, such a current and voltage will be generated during a regular measured walk.

The resulting energy can be accumulated, and then charge the wearable electronics or smartphone. The weight of the sensor is 307 grams. The plans of the developers — the creation of a mass product, which may well be an alternative to portable batteries, because to recharge the gadget user will be enough to walk a little.