Dutch designer Marjan Van Aubel developed a photosynthesis-based table that is able to harvest energy to power electronic devices.
The table has a glass surface that contains a dye-synthesized solar cell. Much like photosynthesis, the solar cell uses the properties of color to generate an electrical current. However, unlike regular solar cells, these dye-synthesized cells do not require direct sunlight to generate power -- they can do so using artificial diffused light. The table comes with a harvesting shelf. When the glass table-top is placed in the harvesting shelf, the energy it has collected is transferred to a central power repository, which can be used to power devices.
The table also includes hidden USB ports which can be used to charge USB devices using the harvested energy. Essentially, this photosynthesis-based table functions as an independent source of energy as it is able to gather and harvest energy and use it to charge a range of devices such as lamps, computers and phones.
Eco-Friendly Furniture
This Photosynthesis Table Can Harvest Energy and Power Electric Devices
Trend Themes
1. Photosynthesis-based Furniture - Designing furniture that incorporates photosynthesis technology for energy-harvesting capabilities.
2. Dye-synthesized Solar Cells - Exploring the potential of dye-synthesized solar cells as an alternative energy source for household and office furniture.
3. Independent Energy Sources - Developing energy-harvesting furniture as an independent power source for electronic devices.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture - Integrating eco-friendly and self-sufficient furniture into households and offices for energy efficiency.
2. Renewable Energy - Exploring the use of renewable energy in furniture and interior design.
3. Technology - Merging furniture and technology by incorporating devices and charging ports that utilize photosynthesis-based energy harvesting.