Body-Integrated Self-Powered System for Wearable and Implantable Applications

Human body has an abundant of available energy from the mechanical movements of walking, jumping and running. Many devices such as electromagnetic, piezoelectric and triboelectric energy harvesting devices have been demonstrated to convert body mechanical energy into electricity, which can be used to power various wearable and implantable electronics. However, complicated structure, high cost of production/maintenance and limitation of wearing and implantation sites, restrict the development and commercialization of the body energy harvesters. Here, we present a body integrated self-powered system (BISS), which is a succinct, high efficient and cost-effective method to scavenge energy from human motions. Biomechanical energy of moving human body can be harvested through a piece of electrode attached to skin. The basic principle of the BISS is inspired by comprehensive effect of triboelectrification between soles and floor, and electrification of the human body. We have proved the feasibility of powering e...