Pervasive Power: A Radioisotope-Powered Piezoelectric Generator

Abstract

A long-lasting radioisotope micropower generator for self-powered sensor microsystems promises to make pervasive computing systems more reliable. Its higher energy conversion efficiency enables microsystems with small amounts of radioactivity to realize sensor and basic computation operations. The goal is to achieve power sources that operate over a wide temperature range and for extended time periods with high reliability. To reach this goal, researchers have investigated technologies for miniature micropower applications and developed radioisotope power generators. We've created a power source employing radioactive thin films and piezoelectric unimorphs, using a nonthermal energy conversion cycle that enables much higher energy conversion efficiency.