Man and machine have been developing a symbiotic relationship for a long time now and the knee dynamo has just given it an added fillip. Researchers behind this unique device claim that it would be possible to power up most of todays portable devices just by taking a casual stroll for a minute. Apparently a minute’s walk could power your cellphone for 30 minutes. Quite a treat indeed!
It works primarily on the dynamo principle. However it aims to extract power that is usually wasted in everyday movements like walking. While people go about their daily chores, energy is spent in trying to bring a moving limb(arm or leg) to rest. This is precisely the energy which is being tapped out by the knee dynamo. Currently attached only to prosthetics, it helps the amputee to slow down just before the foot hits the ground, thus making it easier for the person to carry out movements like walking.
Prosthetic devices in some cases need power sources and therefore require the wearer to carry small power devices to help them. This invention could alter the situation by making it a permanent solution to the typical problem of charging or worrying about when the battery is going to give way.
What would be interesting to see is whether this device can be readily attached to any type of prosthetic or would it be required of the person to go in for a complete replacement. Should the latter case hold true, then it may prove to be a very expensive solution. Extending its benefits to all people would also be a challenge to the inventors.
Source : BBC
