This project uses the movement of trees to generate electricity!

I’m pretty sure that most of us are familiar with the fact that ‘energy can not be created nor be destroyed; it can only be changed from one form to another’. But did you ever think that explorers will be able to use the oscillatory movements of tree branches to generate electricity? Neither did we!

Moscow-based artist and designer, Alexander Altenkov, has shared his study that explores this potential using repetitive movements of tree branches. Dubbed Anemokinetics, the first stage of this research involved a detailed analysis of how tree branches move. The average deflection was determined, depending on the type of branch, tree length, location, and wind speed.

The next challenge was to find a mechanism to convert these movements into electricity. Alexander decided to go with the reliable piezoelectric method, in which a piezo disc is placed between a rod and when the branch moves, this piezoelectric disc deforms generating mechanical stress resulting in the formation of electricity.

The prototype developed was able to deliver a charge of 3.6 volts with a current of 0.1 amperes with each branch movement. Alexander proposed that this project can be used for off-grid navigation in urbanized spaces. Moreover, he proposed that it can also be useful in recreating poorly maintained parks, gardens, and courtyards.

The most interesting idea proposed by Alexander was IoF (Internet of Forest) in which a pool of these sensors on various trees will help in eco monitoring of green areas, and can also be used in creating a network of small power plants.

Check out the project here.