Eco Factor: Prototype device to harvest renewable energy.
Researchers at the Cornell University have created an energy-harvesting tree that uses the flittering of leaves to produce electricity. Dubbed the “Piezo-tree”, the system carries synthetic leaves that are connected to a piezoelectric stem.
As the leaves move in the wind energy is generated, this is then converted into electric energy. The flapping motion of the leaves is attributed to instability of the aero-elastic system. The “Piezo-tree” has been made using flexible piezoelectric material Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF).
Via: Energy Harvesting Journal
