U-M researchers develop new, tiny energy sensor system
The University of Michigan may have developed the most sustainable sensor to date.Researchers have created a 9-cubic millimeter solar-powered sensor that can theoretically run for the foreseeable future on renewable energy. The sensor is so small it’s practically dwarfed by a penny, making it 1,000 times smaller than comparable commercial counterparts, allowing it to use 2,000 times less power.Part of what makes the sensor so significant is that it spends most of its time in sleep mode. It wakes up occasionally to take measurements, allowing it to conserve energy and only expend what it generates from its minuscule solar panels. The sensor’s processor requires about half a volt to operate.Commercial uses range from bio-medical devices to bridge and building sensors. The technology was recently demonstrated by Greg Chen, a computer science and engineering doctoral student at U-M.Source: University of MichiganWriter: Jon Zemke
The University of Michigan may have developed the most sustainable sensor to date.
Researchers have created a 9-cubic millimeter solar-powered sensor that can theoretically run for the foreseeable future on renewable energy. The sensor is so small it’s practically dwarfed by a penny, making it 1,000 times smaller than comparable commercial counterparts, allowing it to use 2,000 times less power.
Part of what makes the sensor so significant is that it spends most of its time in sleep mode. It wakes up occasionally to take measurements, allowing it to conserve energy and only expend what it generates from its minuscule solar panels. The sensor’s processor requires about half a volt to operate.
Commercial uses range from bio-medical devices to bridge and building sensors. The technology was recently demonstrated by Greg Chen, a computer science and engineering doctoral student at U-M.
Source: University of Michigan
Writer: Jon Zemke
Related Articles
Washtenaw County residents invited to contribute to new 10-year tourism plan
Destination Ann Arbor is inviting residents and local stakeholders to help directly shape the future of tourism in Washtenaw County from 2027-2036.
Recast Leaders aim to revitalize local economies
Ypsilanti and six other Michigan communities are working on building their local economies in the Recast Leaders program. Here’s a look at how the program works.
AI’s impact in Washtenaw County, from tech boom to data centers
Our new three-part series digs into AI’s impacts in Ann Arbor’s tech industry, its utilization in Washtenaw County’s educational world, and the ongoing debate about data centers in several Washtenaw County communities.
