Nextreme Thermal
Solutions has developed two new energy harvesting subsystems for the plumbing
and HVAC industries. The subsystems are the latest additions to Nextreme's
Thermobility energy harvesting platform that uses thin-film thermoelectric
technology to convert available thermal energy into electric power for a
variety of autonomous self-powered applications.
Thermobility uses
differences in temperature to enable power where there is an adequate heat
source. The technology eliminates the need to use traditional wired
power sources or replaceable batteries. When paired with wireless transmitters,
the Thermobility solution can provide electric power for years of maintenance-free
operation, expanding the possibilities for new wireless sensor applications in plumbing,
HVAC, industrial control, transportation, automotive, and building management.
Nextreme is applying
Thermobility energy harvesting in the development of plumbing subsystems. Water
in plumbing fixtures provides a source of thermal energy for a variety of
"green plumbing" applications. Thermal energy from water supply lines
under a sink and during flush valve operations can be converted to electricity
as a source of power for LED status indicators, hands-free faucets, soap dispenser
solenoids, and wireless transmitters for data acquisition applications. Harvested
power can help reduce the size of batteries or eliminate them entirely depending
on the application.
The HVAC industry can employ
Thermobility wireless power generators in applications for sensing of
temperature, humidity, and airflow in HVAC systems. Wireless Thermobility
sensor subsystems can harvest thermal energy from the hot or cold temperature
differences found in air plenums, eliminating the need to provide wires to these devices.
Nextreme Thermal
Solutions, www.nextreme.com
