Student Ramon Marc Zolliker created a kinetic charger that doesn't necessitate any electricity or battery power. The simple wooden device looks like a rolling pin with a smaller wooden cylinder sticking out of the center. Much like the rubbing and twirling needed to start a fire with two sticks, the same energy is harnessed by this device to power a cell phone.
Zolliker's project titled, 'IMTI: The Act of Charging as a Ritual of the Digital Nomad' serves as a reminder of humans' daily dependence on electricity. This wooden device is meant to transform individuals into "digital nomads," able to remain connected to the technological world with nothing more than physical friction made from their own hands.
A kinetic charger to join the likes of other similar hand-cranked mechanical devices, the IMTI reduces peoples' all-consuming dependence on electricity.
Mechanical Phone Chargers
This Kinetic Charger Uses the Same Friction Energy Used to Start a Fire
Trend Themes
1. Kinetic Charging - Opportunity for innovators to develop new and sustainable ways of charging electronic devices through kinetic energy.
2. Sustainable Energy Alternatives - Opportunity to shift towards self-powered and environmentally-friendly solutions for everyday charging needs.
3. Digital Nomadism - Opportunity to cater to the increasing trend of individuals living and working remotely, who may require alternative charging methods while on-the-go.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Electronics - Opportunity for companies in the electronic industry to incorporate kinetic charging into their devices and expand their eco-friendly offerings.
2. Fitness Equipment - Opportunity for fitness companies to develop workout equipment that can also generate kinetic energy to power electronic devices.
3. Sustainable Lifestyle - Opportunity for companies in the sustainable lifestyle industry to create products that cater to the growing trend of eco-friendly and self-powered solutions for daily tech use.