ARLINGTON,
Texas -
Scientists at the University of Texas – Arlington believe tiny windmills may
someday charge smart phones.
They designed the devices that are so small about 50 could fit on a penny.
Hundreds could easily fit on a case.
Wind created by waiving the phone or holding it up on a windy day would
create electricity to recharge the battery.
"So the strategy for manufacturing this is they are going to be very cost
effective and you can mass produce them. And in the future I believe this can be
produced very cheaply and in mass quantities," said Dr. JC Chaio, a professor of
electrical engineering at UT – Arlington.
Dr. Chaio said many designers have run into problems because the
micro-windmills are just too brittle, but his are made from a durable nickel
alloy.
A company in Taiwan is currently showcasing the work on its website and
in public presentations.
