IIT Indore has made a significant breakthrough with the development of shoes that generate electricity with every step this innovation utilizes Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) technology, marking a major leap in wearable tech.
Ten pairs of these TENG-powered shoes have already been delivered to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). These shoes offer several advantages for soldiers:
- Real-time location tracking: Incorporated GPS and RFID technology ensure the safety and coordination of military personnel.
- Self-powered operation: TENG technology eliminates the need for replaceable batteries, providing a reliable power source for essential equipment.
Beyond the Battlefield
The applications of these shoes extend far beyond military use. Here are some exciting possibilities:
- Increase Safety for Vulnerable Individuals: Families with elderly members or those with Alzheimer’s can benefit from real-time location tracking features.
- Peace of Mind for Parents: Keep an eye on your children’s whereabouts throughout the day.
- Streamlined Attendance Management: Schools and workplaces can leverage RFID technology for efficient attendance tracking.
- Athletics: Analyze athletes’ foot movements to improve performance and training techniques.
- Safe and Efficient Expeditions: Self-powered GPS in the shoes ensures safety and navigation for trekkers and mountaineers.
This innovation by IIT Indore paves the way for a sustainable future, offering a reliable and eco-friendly power source with diverse applications across various sectors.
What is a Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG)?
A Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) is a device that harnesses the power of everyday mechanical energy and converts it into electricity. It operates on the principle of triboelectrification, which is the generation of static electricity through contact and separation of materials.
How it works:
- When two different materials come into contact, electrons transfer from one material to another, creating an electrical charge imbalance.
- The accumulated charges generate an electric field when the materials separate.
- Electrodes and an external circuit convert this electric field into usable electrical energy.
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