Finally a creative use for wasted energy. Scientists are figuring out a way to utilize the bio mechanical energy emitted as people exercise or perform daily tasks. To research this ability, hamsters are being monitored for what they do best – running in a wheel. Devices are strapped to the animals as they run in their wheel and the bio mechanical energy is captured as they exercise. “Dr Zhong Lin Wang of Georgia University’s Nano Research Group developed the flexible jackets, which are fitted with wires plugged into a nanogenerator that produces energy when they are bent and stretched.” One test result from a hamster produced a small amount of AC power. Dr. Zhong believes in 5 years that this technology could be outfitted in clothes for people and then used to charge cell phones or other devices. Or maybe your pet hamster will be powering your iPod? Read more here.
