HTS- 110 Ltd. and Long Electromagnetics Incorporated are combining efforts to create a compact five megawatt generator. This advancement lowers weight from a traditional five tons all the way down to only 1.5 tons. This increases mobility drastically. At only 1.5 tons, this machine can be airlifted, shipped, or moved in a truck. An increase in mobility, allows this generator to be applicable in more scenarios especially emergency and disaster areas.

This new technology utilizes a four-pole superconducting rotor, air-cooled copper stator, and a BSCCO wire to produce its high output. This BSCCO wire is patented by HTS-110 for its unique ceramic structure which enables superconductivity. The use of superconductive materials in generators is a new advancement with a high potential to increase efficiency. Its five megawatt output is enough electricity to serve about 2500 homes.

In addition to its impressive output, it is up to five times faster than traditional 5MW generators. The same advancements in superconductivity to increase speed and output also largely contribute to its decrease in weight. These parts weigh less than the many more traditional hefty parts required to produce the same output, but at a lower speed.

LEI and HTS-110 are looking to make this machine readily available quickly. Early expectations shoot for 2008. It is intended to be used first by military and NASA; however, versions applicable for businesses and the general public are not far away. Commercial models are already being developed. 

While this generator has a variety of uses, it is excellent for providing high power in emergency situations. Often only smaller generators can be transported to confined disaster areas which are usually blanketed in debris. This is insufficient for many situations. However; now there is an answer. With a variety of transport options and a high power output, this will offer tremendous aid in much needed situations.

References:
“Lightweight generator a world first for emergency power.”
http://www.hts-110.com/news/coverage/lightweight-generator.html

GA Tech has devised a nanogenerator that derives energy from the environment to produce a direct stream of electricity. This is a breakthrough in technology with a vast range of uses.

Researchers used zinc oxide in combination with mechanical energy to create an electrical current with the potential to power electronics. First an array consisting of vertically aligned zinc oxide nanowires is constructed on a substrate. Then silicon “zig-zag” electrodes with platinum coating are used to make the nanowires flex. The nanowires are moved by mechanical energy which thereby causes an electrical current. The mechanical energy required can come from a variety of courses including vibration and possibly blood flow.

The zinc oxide used does not cause any harmful side effects or health risks. This means the nanogenerator could be used to power devices in the body. Biosensors that monitor things such as blood flow need a constant and reliable energy supply and batteries are insufficient. The integration of this technology to power medical devices is a large and much needed advancement. However, its uses extend well beyond biomedical devices. Dreams of using nanogenerators to power a variety of small, common electronic applications are in the realm of possibilities.

Current advancements are being made to optimize both the length of each nanowire and the amount of nanowires in the arrays. This will increase both efficiency and output. However, studies and research have indicated that this method is extremely reliable with consistencies similar to those of ultrasonic generators.
Specifics cited from John Toon and GA Tech at:

Toon, John. 2007. “Nanogenerator Provides Continuous Electrical Power.” GA Tech News Release.

Diesel generators are now the powerhouses behind a breakthrough in technology that will provide water in abundance for varies scenarios in society, especially for those suffering in disaster situations and military purposes. The developers, Aqua Sciences, Inc., also embody further ambitions of integrating its use into the current water systems to increase supply and efficiency.

The process involves implementing water technology to extract H2O from the atmosphere. After the water is extracted, it is also projected through purification processes to enabling it for safe human consumption.

These machines have several advantages. The process consumes minimal energy. Their portability is a well-designed asset meant to maximize its effectiveness in disastrous or undeveloped areas. They are relatively small and produce an impressive amount of vital water.

The “off the grid” system is powered by a diesel generator and the 40 foot emergency station can remarkably supply up to 1,200 gallons each day for a seven day period without being refueled. This provides enough water to satisfy 3,000 people per day. The 40 foot station is also equipped with the option to integrate a reverse osmosis module to increase production resulting in an additional 8,000 gallons per day.

In addition to the 40 foot system, there is also a smaller 20 foot station that is able to produce 500 gallons per day.

The overall output may vary depending on environmental conditions.

Consumers note that these machines also come with smaller containers for convenient distribution.

Aqua Sciences Advanced Water Technologies:
http://www.aquasciences.com/about.html