Work

StaticDrive: A solid-state mechano-electro-mechanic power transmission

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Triboelectric nanogenerators offer promising energy-harvesting capabilities for powering sensors and electronics but face challenges in powering actuation as the generated power relies on high-frequency mechanical movement with high impedance, and low power output. We introduce StaticDrive, a mechano-electro-mechanic power transmission system that directly powers electrostatic actuators using triboelectric energy. Its high-performance flexible magnetic structure converts arbitrary sliding motion—driven by a joystick— into enhanced electrical output, achieving an open circuit voltage greater than 3.5 kV and a short-circuit current exceeding 90uA. When directly connected to dielectrophoretically amplified Liquid Zipping actuators, the generated energy is sufficient to drive actuation. We demonstrate its potential applications in distant manipulation such as precise catheter tip deflection and gripping. StaticDrive provides a compact, adaptable, lightweight and multifunctional solution for mechanical power transmission for low-force manipulation in hard-to-reach environments.

Source: Nano Energy

DOI: 10.1016/j.nanoen.2025.111475

Authors: Jian Wen, Yuejun Xu, Ali Sadeghi, Majid Taghavi

Institutions: Imperial College London, University of Twente, Queen Mary University of London

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,210