Background
Current power bank technology includes portable batteries designed to provide charge to electronic devices when there is no access to power outlets. Power banks and portable generators are currently used for outdoor activities including camping, and emergency situations including power outages. However, current designs for power banks are not able to power larger electronics for longer periods of time, and current portable generators typically use gasoline which can be difficult to come by during an emergency situation.
Invention Description
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed the Mobile Power Station, which is a tool to enable users to charge a battery pack using a human-pedaled self-excited generator design. This technology can be used in situations of extended outdoor activities or during emergency power outages. This invention removes the need for using gasoline to power generators, which can be difficult to find during natural disaster situations. This technology is mobile and can be transported easily, while also enabling a larger power capacity.
Potential Applications:
- Camping equipment
- Consumer generators
- Portable power electronics
Benefits and Advantages:
- Lightweight as compared to traditional gasoline generators
- Reduces noise of generator design
- Does not require the use of gasoline
- Improved sustainability by removing carbon dioxide emissions
- User-friendly interface to see how much power is being used and generated