High-Tech Knee Straps Could Power GPS Tracker Devices

19 Jun 2012

How would you like to charge your mobile devices, such as your GPS tracker, simply by taking an after-dinner stroll or walk with Fido? Well, soon you may be able to.

That’s because British researchers have figured out a way to power small electronic gadgets simply by extracting energy from a person’s knees through the use of a high-tech knee strap. The researchers from a trio of UK Universities have built an innovative device that is capable of converting body movement into electricity, which is able to power small electronic devices.

Referred to as the “pizzicato knee-joint energy harvester”, the user wears the circular strap around her knees. The strap’s outer ring is fitted with four protruding arms and over 70 plectra, which pluck the arms when the knee is bent. Similar to a guitar string, the arms then vibrate generating energy, which can in turn charge mobile devices.

Currently, the knee contraption can harvest only about two milliwatts of power, but researchers from the University of Salford, Cranfield University, and the University of Liverpool say that with a few realistic changes, the power generated could exceed 30 milliwatts. The researchers tested the device on a knee motion simulator that reproduces the walking gait of a human.

Long used in ultrasound scanners and sonar sensors, the “energy harvester” mechanism is built on the piezolectric materials.

The researchers believe that this gadget could propel a new generation of GPS tracking, thanks to longer and more frequent wireless transmissions and more advanced processing.

Its implication is far-reaching, including powering heart-rate monitors or other medical devices people rely on to survive. Other applications include decreasing the amount of heavy batteries solders need to carry when on foot patrol.

The UK researchers are looking for ways to make the device more portable, wearable, and cheaper. “There is an on-going project looking at manufacturing a more compact and truly wearable harvester,” said lead author of the study Dr Michele Pozzi. “At the moment we are using precise but cost-effective manufacturing techniques for the plectra and casing and anticipate that remaining parts will be moulded industrially, slashing the cost,” Pozzi commented.

Once improvements to the device are made, the final production model could cost about $15.

The research is published in the July issue of IOP Science journal Smart Materials and Structures.

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About George Karonis

George Karonis is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of LiveViewGPS Inc., a company he established in 2008 with the vision of making real-time GPS tracking more reliable, affordable, and accessible for businesses of all sizes. Over the past two decades, he has built a reputation as an innovator in GPS tracking, fleet management, asset monitoring, and Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PTToC) communications. Under George's leadership, LiveViewGPS has grown into a nationally recognized provider of GPS tracking solutions, serving businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, law enforcement organizations, and public works departments throughout the United States. The company's technology helps organizations improve operational efficiency, protect valuable assets, increase driver safety, and reduce operating costs through real-time location intelligence. Before founding LiveViewGPS, George developed a background in security, surveillance, and emerging location technologies. His passion for innovation and practical problem solving has driven the development of products that combine dependable hardware with easy-to-use cloud software, giving customers actionable information when it matters most. In 2018, George expanded into nationwide Push-to-Talk over Cellular communications by launching PeakPTT, providing businesses with rugged, instant communication solutions that operate over LTE and Wi-Fi networks. His focus has remained the same throughout his career: delivering dependable technology backed by exceptional customer service and long-term customer relationships. George regularly writes about GPS tracking, fleet management, asset protection, business technology, and communication systems. Through this blog, he shares industry insights, practical advice, and emerging trends to help organizations make informed decisions about tracking technology and connected operations.