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Mobile phones could in future be powered by their owner’s beating heart thanks to a micro-generator unveiled by computer scientists. Although initially designed to power wireless sensors that monitor the condition of industrial plants, the device could spawn a line of self-powered medical and consumer technologies. That’s because it generates electrical energy from the vibrations and movements within its immediate environment, say experts at Southampton University, which created the device. This means the technology has the potential to form self-powered pace makers, or let mobile users charge their phone by simply keeping it in their breast pocket near their heart. The generator, which is less than 1 cubic cm in size, could alter traditional use of any wireless device, including MP3 players, as it has the power to potentially replace or augment batteries. It works on the same principles as a kinetic powered watch, which uses the movement of a coil between magnets to produce an electrical current. “This is the most successful generator of its kind and generates energy much more efficiently than any similar device of its size,” said Dr Steve Beeby, of Southampton University’s School of Electronics & Computer Science. He added: “Vibration energy harvesting is receiving a considerable amount of interest as a means for powering wireless sensor nodes. “The big advantage of wireless sensor systems is that by removing wires and batteries, there is the potential for embedding sensors in previously inaccessible locations.” In the future, mobile phone users will be able to switch to a new network within two hours without having to change their number, according to fresh proposals tabled by Ofcom. Within the next two years, the telecoms regulator wants to eradicate the “lengthy” process of switching network providers, which currently places the onus on users to complete the transfer. The process will begin immediately, however, as operators have been told to now complete a switchover within two working days, compared to five days, as is the industry norm. The intention is to ensure that consumers are able to select a new mobile provider, purchase a new SIM card and receive calls using their old number as quickly as possible. This will give them more choice and encourage industry competition. To achieve the smarter switchover, Ofcom wants to see the creation of a central e-database containing transferred numbers, which should be built by both fixed and mobile providers. Ed Richards, the chief executive of Ofcom, said: “The UK was one of the first countries to introduce number portability and this has helped create a competitive mobile market in the UK. “However, the original process is now out-of-date. We believe that the industry should introduce a new system which will stimulate competition and encourage consumers to exercise choice between competing suppliers with a minimum of inconvenience.” Jul 23, 2007 Email this article Printer friendly page Previous Page
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