Product Inspiration

A big problem with conventional wind-based power generation is that it requires a relatively high average wind speed in a particular area. This unusual design boasts much better efficiency in low winds by exploiting wind’s ability to vibrate a ribbon (or bridge). The vibrating ribbon moves a small magnet rapidly back and forth between a set of electromagnetic coils, which comprise one of the simplest generator designs possible.

This appears to be a terrific design with lots of potential today for niche applications such as remote self-powered equipment. While it will probably not compete with full size wind turbines in the forseeable future, maybe a much larger version of this design (or an array of these modules) could provide useable power for some home applications.

http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/industry/4224763.html?serie s=37 via ecogeek

Microbial Fuel Cells use organic matter and special bacteria to produce power. The bacteria consume whatever trash or biological byproducts they are fed, and in turn they produce small amounts of electricity. While the amounts of power don’t seem that large when compared to batteries and more conventional generators, you have to remember that it is being produced from trash. Even further, the bacteria also process the matter, breaking it down for safer and less toxic disposal at a later time. This kind of win-win technology is definitely worth keeping an eye on.http://technology.newscientist.com/article/dn12731-grassmunching-bu gs-could-charge-rural-phones.html

Piezoelectric materials generate small amounts of electricity whenever they are pushed or pulled. This new discovery shows that certain nanowires exhibit piezoelectric properties, providing micro amounts of current when they are twisted or otherwise stressed. While this is obviously many years away from seeing any practical application, maybe the small size could lead to a large array of these wires that could generate a useable amount of power.

http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/09/nanowires_twist.php