The system converts shortwaves such as Wi-Fi signals, satellites into electricity

Researchers at Duke University have recently invented a low-cost device that can collect microwave signals and convert them into energy to recharge batteries.

The said energy collector works similarly to solar panels used to convert light energy into electricity. However, Duke researchers say their converters can collect signals scattered from every second source, including satellite, audio or Wi-Fi signals.

Steven Cummer, computer and electrical engineering professor at Duke said: "Our invention has proven a simple and cheap method to harvest electromagnetic energy. The device has a simple design with a only blocks and can be added.You only need to add one more block to increase the energy harvest ".

Alexander Kaito (left) and Allen Hawkes with waveguides containing energy gathering parts

In addition, the device can become part of the phone, allowing the phone to recharge itself. It can also be used in rural areas, where access to the regular grid is not possible to get energy from mobile or satellite broadcast columns, the team said.

For example, a series of energy collection devices can be fitted together to receive signals from satellites flying in orbit. In a few minutes, the small amount of energy harvested from satellites could operate a sensor network at a remote location, allowing data collection for long-term research to make measurable measurements. regularly.

The device was built by engineering student Allen Hawkes with the help of graduate student Alexander Katko and professor Steven Cummer. The group used glass fiber and copper conductive materials to collect a variety of different wave energies and refine them for many useful applications.

5 conductors on a Wi-Fi shortwave converter board into V power source with conversion efficiency of up to 36.8%

On one board, the group designed five fiberglass and copper conductors with the ability to convert ultra-short waves into a 7.3V power source. By comparison, a USB charging port for electronic devices can only generate 5V electricity.

"We are aiming for the highest energy efficiency possible. We have achieved energy efficiency of 6 to 10% but this design can improve conversion efficiency by up to 37%, and can be compared. Compared to solar cell performance , " Hawks explained.

The device can be customized for multiple frequencies to collect various types of energy including vibrational energy and sound. Kaito said: "Until now, studies on metamaterials still appear in theory. We have shown that with such a small study, these materials may become useful to application for consumers ".