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Miniature thermopiles that could be fabricated by using modern thin- and thick-film technologies are discussed as a power supply to wearable devices. The maximum power that can be produced by a thermopile of a medium-to-small size was simulated in case of typical thermal properties of humans and their living environment. The local thermal resistances of human being required for the simulation were obtained experimentally. The designs of wearable thermoelectric generators are discussed. The general design optimization of wearable thermoelectric energy harvester with a miniature thermopile was performed in case of near-maximum power generated per unit volume of thermoelectric generator. The obtained performance characteristics allow prediction of the application area for wearable energy harvesters of human body heat and the perspectives of their market success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

In this paper, we present our vision of what kind of wearable devices and how they can be powered by the heat of human beings and by using ambient light. The basic principles of designing body-powered devices and ways of their hybridizing with photovoltaic cells are discussed. The mechanisms of thermoregulation in humans and the laws of thermodynamics enable placing a distinct boarder between realistic targets and the science fiction. These allow prediction of application areas for wearable energy harvesters accounting for competitive batteries with long service life. The existing family of body-powered wearable devices and new technologies for thermopiles are discussed. The theory and practice point at the necessity of using microelectronic and microelectromechanical system technologies for the target application area. These technologies for thermopiles offer the possibility of reduced production cost. Therefore, autonomous systems powered thermoelectrically could be successfully marketed. The related aspects of design and fabrication are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...