Energy harvesting is what could be described as the Vodka of the tech world. Energy harvesting, by name alone, is crystal clear like traditional vodka. In other words, the term “energy harvesting” requires little explanation: harvesting electrical energy from some source.
Traditional Russian vodka is usually harvested and distilled from fermented grains (wheat, etc.); however it can actually be harvested from almost any fermentable food source such as fruits, berries, etc. In certain boutique libation outlets, one can see (and drink) vodkas touted as being distilled from cabbage, soy, and, believe it or not, a variety of tone woods.
Traditional energy, for the majority of the world, comes from either a wall outlet (ac voltage), or a battery (dc voltage). However, with the proliferation of sensors and other tech gear that requires power in remote locations where traditional power sources are unavailable (wall outlets) or difficult and impractical to maintain (changing batteries), another approach is necessary. Enter energy harvesting, the technique of extracting and using electrical energy from, like vodka, a plethora of sources.
According to Randy Frank, a respected and quoted expert in the field of energy technologies, energy harvesting (EH) or converting renewable or existing sources of energy to electrical power can be derived from several sources including light, heat, motion, and others. Although somewhat still in its infancy, energy harvesting shows great potential, especially in the current wave of remote applications that range from consumer/commercial through medical and aerospace.
Anyone involved with any form of sensor technology, which does cover everything, needs to have a solid, working knowledge of energy harvesting techniques and what’s currently making the grade. Although most current applications are of the low-power variety, energy harvesting shows great promise in the industrial and manufacturing sectors. To learn all about these advances and what’s in store down the pike, it’s highly recommended you read Randy Frank’s article, “How can energy harvesting be used in industrial applications?”
Then the next important step is to hear Mr. Frank and noted energy-harvesting experts in person at Sensors Expo West, Tuesday, June 27, 2017 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. To keep your energy levels up, be sure to attend the session titled “Energy Harvesting and Energy-Efficient Power Solutions for Sensor Applications.” ~MD