Power plant in backpack

US scientists have invented a kind of backpack that produces electricity, helping lifeguards, adventurers and soldiers always have enough electricity for equipment while on duty.

Structure of backpacks

According to researcher Lawrence Rome of the University of Pennsylvania, who led the study, the idea of ​​inventing this type of backpack stems from a requirement of the US Naval Research Office: to produce electricity from body movements. At that time, American soldiers in Afghanistan had to carry 36kg backpacks containing global satellite navigation devices, night vision goggles and other equipment that needed a 9kg battery.

Weighing from 20 to 38kg, the backpack can generate more than 7 watts, enough to power a group of electronic devices at the same time, including cell phones, MP3 players, and computers. portable, night vision goggles and water filter device. When a person walks and carries a backpack full of goods, their hips move up and down about 5-7cm by foot. At the same time, the backpack also moved up and down in the same distance. The movement of the goods in the backpack turns a device connected to the tiny generator at the top of the backpack, generating electricity.

The amount of electricity generated depends on the weight of the goods in the backpack and the speed at which the user walks. Experimental results show that the maximum amount of electricity that a backpack can generate is 7.4 watts. Meanwhile devices such as mobile phones need less than 1 watt. According to mechanical engineer Arthur Kuo of the University of Michigan, backpacks are easier to carry and more convenient than regular backpacks.

Minh Son (According to National Geographic)