Imagine charging your laptop while typing or powering your smartphone just by jogging.
A groundbreaking new device from researchers at the University of Waterloo can generate electricity from vibrations or small body movements, offering a clean, sustainable energy source.
This tiny, wearable generator is not just limited to personal devices—it can also be scaled up for larger machines.
The innovative technology was described in the paper, “Breaking Dielectric Dilemma: Polymer Functionalized Perovskite Piezocomposite with Large Current Density Output,” recently published in Nature Communications.
“This is a real game changer,” said Dr. Asif Khan, the lead researcher and a postdoctoral fellow in Waterloo’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. “We’ve created the first device of its kind that provides efficient and low-cost power for electronics.”
The device works using the piezoelectric effect, which converts mechanical pressure into electrical energy.
Materials like crystals and certain ceramics already use this effect in technologies like ultrasound imaging, sonar, and microwave devices. However, those traditional materials have significant drawbacks: they’re brittle, expensive, and not very efficient.
The new materials developed by the team are flexible, cost-effective, and much more energy-efficient. This advancement could open up many possibilities for sustainable energy in everyday life.
“This innovation overcomes the limitations of older piezoelectric materials,” explained Dr. Dayan Ban, a professor at the Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology. “Our new materials are a big leap forward—they’re not only cheaper and more flexible but also generate much more power.”
The research team included experts from the University of Waterloo and the University of Toronto. Together, they have filed a patent for their technology and are collaborating with a Canadian company to bring the device to market. One of the first potential uses is in aviation, where the generator could power systems that monitor safety equipment on airplanes.
With this technology, everyday movements—like typing, walking, or running—could become sources of renewable energy. This innovation isn’t just about convenience; it represents a significant step toward reducing reliance on traditional energy sources, making it a win for both people and the planet.
From wearable tech to aviation safety, this motion-powered generator could revolutionize how we think about powering devices in the future.
