What is RETHINK POWER SUPPLY?
RETHINK POWER SUPPLY is a groundbreaking sustainable power solution for IoT devices—no batteries, no wires, just clean, direct conversion of process heat into electricity. This innovative project transforms challenging industrial environments by converting the temperature difference between a machine or a pipe and its surrounding environment into a regulated output voltage. With decades of expected lifespan and resilience to vibrations, moisture, explosive gases, and machine cleaning processes, the technology offers an almost maintenance-free alternative to traditional battery-driven systems. It is designed to reliably power sensors in industrial settings, enabling smarter, self-sustaining IIoT applications.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
The system provides an array of benefits that set it apart from conventional approaches. The underlying advantages combine the latest thermal energy harvesting technology with practical features well-suited for challenging industrial applications. Here are some key facts and figures:
- Sustainable power supply and no dependency on batteries.
- No wires are required; installation is simple and quick.
- Converts process heat directly into a constant output voltage (adjustable from 1.5–9 V).
- Offers a self-sustaining, maintenance-free alternative to traditional sensor power sources.
- Endures vibrations, moisture, explosive gases, and even harsh cleaning processes.
- Decades-long expected lifespan, ensuring reliability over time.
Versatile Applications for IoT Devices
The thermal energy harvesting approach is ideal for a wide range of applications in industrial environments. It is used extensively to sustainably power IoT devices, not only enhancing data collection but also contributing to the overall efficiency and safety of production sites. The project’s design supports sensors that monitor temperatures, thus preventing injuries caused by overheated pipes or components. The versatility in its product line means that this technology easily adapts to different configurations and sizes of machines or pipes, offering custom solutions for various IIoT deployments… an approach that is both forward-thinking and practical.
Introducing SensEver® HSI and SensEver® ALFA Solutions
Two critical products in this product line are SensEver® HSI and SensEver® ALFA. SensEver® HSI serves as a self-powered hot surface indicator, ensuring that any potential hazards related to high temperatures on pipes or machine surfaces are quickly flagged. A visual signal is emitted once the pipe temperature exceeds a pre-set threshold, enhancing onsite safety. Meanwhile, SensEver® ALFA stands as an autonomous power supply that converts temperature differences into a regulated, constant output voltage. The output voltage, adjustable from 1.5 to 9 V, is specifically designed to power a variety of standard Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) sensors so that data collection never misses a beat.
Future Innovations in Thermal Energy Harvesting
Beyond the current product lineup lies FLEXteg, a novel thermoelectric generator (TEG) under development. With its patented design, FLEXteg is poised to work more efficiently at higher temperatures than existing generators. This forward-looking solution is expected to not only boost the efficiency of thermal energy harvesting but also expand the range of applications where the technology can be applied. In a dynamic industrial landscape, the ability to continually innovate and improve is crucial—and FLEXteg represents a significant step in that ongoing journey toward smarter, cleaner industrial practices.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development
- SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13 – Climate Action
Integrating Clean Energy into Industry
This cutting-edge initiative is a prime example of how thermal energy harvesting can revolutionize industrial power solutions. By reducing the complexity associated with powering sensors—transforming it into a simple plug-and-play experience—the project opens up new frontiers for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) deployments. Processes that once relied on cumbersome batteries or extensive wiring now benefit from a streamlined, self-sustaining alternative. The use of natural process heat, harvested directly from operational machines and pipes, offers an environmentally friendly solution that is as dynamic as it is reliable… promoting a net-zero future while enhancing everyday industrial operations. In a world eager for sustainable innovation, this approach not only meets today’s needs but also paves the way for tomorrow’s smarter and cleaner industrial environments.
