POWER GENERATOR UNTT FOR A PORTABLE

DEVICE HAVINGAMOηONBASED POWER

CONVERTER

CPOSS-PEFEPENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/744,791, filed April 13, 2006, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of Invention

[0002] The present invention is related generally to electrical power generation, and more particularly to a wearable mechanical power generator.

Description of the Related Art

[0003] Electrically powered devices that operate with internal to electrical power sources are known. Examples of such devices include portable battery-operated electronic consumer devices which are prevalent in modern society (e.g., mobile phones, personal data assistants, and portable music players (e.g., a CD player, iPod ^® ) . These devices may also include a micro-processor and other hardware and software configured to carry out various functions that require the use of electric power provided by the internal power source (i.e., the battery) in order to function. The internal power source may be in the form of a rechargeable power source such as, for example, a rechargeable battery. However, a rechargeable battery generally requires recharging by periodic connection to an external power source such as, for example an electrical socket. This often requires that the entire device be docked or otherwise operatively connected with a device-specific charging apparatus that is itself electrically connected to an external power source. This required periodic connection to dedicated electrical sources via device- specific chargers, however, can often be onerous on users of the devices who may not have access to power outlets (e.g. while commuting to work or traveling) or to the device-specific charging

apparatus. Moreover, given the huge number of such devices in use today, this periodic requirement to connect such devices to dedicated power sources results in a cumulatively significant use of electric power resources .

[0004] Another example of a device that requires a power source is a buoy placed in a body of water (e.g., ocean, lake, etc.) that carries a payload of electronic devices that require the use of electric current in order to function. Like portable electronic devices, buoys and similar devices are subject to external motions. For example, a buoy floating in a body of water is subjected to various forces from wave motion, currents, wind and the like that impart motion to the buoy in various forms including, but not limited to, bouncing, tipping, dipping, spinning or the like. External motions can be categorized as simple and complex motions. A complex motion can be a composite that results from several types of simple motions put together. More complex motions involve more moving parts or more different types of motion occurring concurrently. Exemplary simple motions are translational, traversal or rotational. Translational or traversal motions require passing or move over, along, or through an axis or a path. Rotational motion requires turning or revolving around or about an axis or center point. Each simple motion can occur and be described independently. For example, an object can move along or traverses a path without rotating, or it can rotate without moving along a path.

[0005] A reciprocating or oscillating motion is a complex motion involving a traversal movement along one path in one direction and another traversal motion in the reverse direction along substantially the same path. Bending, stretching, and twisting are somewhat more complicated types of motion. Elastic motions involve rotation and/or translation, with or without reciprocation. Each type of motion is controlled by a different type of force: translation by the net force acting on an object, rotation by torque produced by an off-center force, elastic motion by internal forces between different parts of

an object. The strength of the forces can be measured by their effect on the motion of an object.

[0006] Attempts to convert physical motion into a source of electrical power have been made. For example, it is desired to convert the energy created by the movement of an object that is subject to external motion into a source of electrical power. Under normal circumstances, energy created by movement of an object (i.e., kinetic energy) is lost to the surrounding environment. Attempts have been made to effectively harness such motion energy and convert it into electrical power by way of interactions with electromagnetic fields . Some common large scale examples of converting physical movement into electrical power include hydroelectric generated power (e.g., a hydroelectric dam), wind generated power (e.g., a wind turbine), and automotive alternators .

[0007] In terms of small scale power generators, attempts have been made to use magnetic transducers with power generating capability. For example, U.S. Patent No. 5,347,186 discloses a linear motion electric power generator that uses a rare earth magnet and a coil that are positioned to move linearly back and forth relative to each other. The movement of the coil in the field of the magnet generates a current in the coil by using the repelling forces of polarized magnets to maintain a quasi-neutral position about which the relative motion occurs. Another example is U.S. Patent No. 5,818,132 which discloses a linear motion electric power generator for generating electric current from motions caused by intermittent force or repetitive forces (e.g., the forces on the heel of a shoe during walking or running) . This can be accomplished by a moving magnet confined in such a manner that it can only move with bi-directional linear, or approximately linear, motion through two coils that are spaced apart from each other and connected electrically to produce current in the coils from lower power mechanical forces. The generated electrical current can be used for powering flashlights,

alarm systems and communication devices worn around a body or located at places where conventional electric power sources are unavailable. [0008] The above-described small scale power generators described above are commonly referred to as tubular type power generators. In a tubular type generator, a magnet is fit within a tube, with magnet poles being aligned along the long axis of the tube, which defines the path for the direction of magnet movement. A coil of wire, roughly positioned near the middle of the travel path of the magnet, is wound around the tube and about a coil axis that is in parallel to flux unidirectional path of the magnet as defined its North and South poles. Therefore when the magnet is directly within the coil, its loops are exposed to a substantial portion, if not, all of the available unidirectional flux being generated by the magnet. As the magnet is displaced from the center of the tube toward one end, the coil is exposed to a diminishing magnetic flux density either at the south pole or north pole. As the magnet reaches a rebound position and begins to return, the coil sees a building magnetic flux change that generates electric power or voltage. The same scenario is repeated as the magnet travels down the other end of the tube. It should be noted that the change in flux density produces the electric power in the coil, not the flux density by itself. Under this arrangement, the unidirectional magnetic flux axis is always in the same parallel direction to the coil axis and flux direction is fixed. In other words, a tubular type power generator presents a unidirectional magnetic flux to one or more coils having coil axes that are parallel to the movement axis of the magnet (s) . [0009] For all electro-motive force (EMF) type power generator units, such as the ones described above, the relevant governing equation of physics is the applied version of Faraday's law. According to Faraday's law , the EMF (i.e., voltage) developed in a coil of wire is equal to the number of turns of the wire in the coil multiplied by the change in the magnetic flux that each loop is exposed to. Therefore, one of the goals of EMF power generator design is to

maximize the power output of the generator by maximizing any or all of the terms of Faraday's law individually or in combination, subject to physical and material constraints. However, one of the disadvantages of tubular type power generators is that, due to their basic geometry, they are limited in their power generation potential . [00010] Other examples include U.S. Patent Nos. 6,768,230; 6,798,090; 6,809,427; 6,812,583; 6,812,598; 6,833,780; and 6,861,772. The foregoing patents describe systems of a related nature and are incorporated herein by reference to the extent permitted by law. In general, these patent documents disclose electromagnetic power generator systems wherein one or more magnets are moved relative to a conductor (e.g., one or more coils of wire) to induce electromotive forces (i.e., a flow of electrons) therein. More specifically, the magnets were moved relative to a stationary conductor so that the magnetic lines of flux radiating from the magnets intersect the conductor at right angles and induce the electromotive forces. An aspect of some of these designs is that the moving magnets can be disposed on an ultra-low friction ferrofluid bearing system. This allows construction of a power generator system wherein the magnets move in response to simple motions (low force - low input energy) . The addition of the ultra-low friction bearing fluid (ferrofluid) allowed the generators to become feasible, whereas prior to this, the inherent internal friction (s) of these devices prevented the starting movement of the system and, therefore, no action was subsequently possible .

[00011] As mentioned above, small electronic mobile devices (e.g., mobile phones, cell phones, mp3 players, portable computers, etc . ) require the use of various wall chargers connected to electrical sockets or other means of charging the mobile device, such as car battery chargers, that limit the mobility of the device when its battery is being charged. With the growing use of mobile devices in people's daily lives, it is more and more important that mobile devices be reliable and that the battery last through the day. A

wall charger or a car battery charger may not always be a convenient way to recharge the battery of a mobile device. Also, due to the increasing use of mobile devices, it is more likely that the device battery may run out of power during the day in a location where a wall charger may not be available. Therefore, there is a need for alternative means of providing charge power to mobile electronic devices. There is a further need to provide a kinetic energy power generator that is connectable to consumer electronic devices to constantly charge these devices . There is an additional need for a holder to house a kinetic energy power generator that is wearable or other attachable to a person, animal or other object capable of motion (e.g., passive motion, intended motion) or in motion.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[00012] Briefly, according to the present invention, a power generator that provides power to a portable device has a housing that is subject to external motion (e.g., linear motion, circumferential motion, radial motion or any combination thereof) . The power generator has a first member comprising an electrical component and a second member comprising a magnetic component movable relative to the electrical component such that an electromagnetic interaction between the electrical and magnetic components generates an electrical current in the electrical component. The electrical current can be used as a charge current, for example, for charging one or more batteries. A spring element coupled to at least one of the first and second members defines a spring-mass system that is responsive to the external motion for moving the first member and second member relative to each other along a movement axis. According to one of the features of the present invention, the electrical component comprises a coil having one or more windings around a coil axis that is substantially perpendicular to the movement axis .

[00013] According to some of the more detailed features of the invention, the second element comprises a first and a second support

surface defining a gap. In one embodiment, the second support surface is substantially parallel to the first support surface and arranged opposite the second surface across the gap. The magnetic component comprises a first and a second array of magnets disposed on the first and second support surfaces, respectively, such that the first and the second arrays are aligned opposite one another, separated by the gap, and the magnetic axis of each magnet of the first and second arrays is substantially perpendicular to the first and second support surfaces . Each magnet of the first and second arrays is disposed with a magnetic polarity opposite to that of an immediately adjacent magnet in the same array. Each magnet of the first array and an opposing magnet on the second array face each other through the gap with opposing polarities. A magnetic yoke comprising material with high magnetic permeability covers and magnetically links outer poles of the respective magnets of the first and second arrays, leaving inner poles of the magnets substantially exposed in the gap with opposing polarities . In this way, a concentrated magnetic field is generated by the magnetic component with alternating magnetic flux directions that are substantially perpendicular to the movement axis along the movement path of the coil.

[00014] According to other more detailed features of the invention, a fluid-bearing containing ferromagnetic particles, such as ferrofluid, facilitates the movement of the first and second members relative to each other. The coil can also be disposed with ferrofluid to increase the magnetic permeability of the coil . In another embodiment, the magnetic permeability of the coil is increased by including nano-ferrite particles therein. The spring element can be a linear spring (e.g., a mechanical coil) or a nonlinear spring. A linear mechanical spring can have a first end attached to the housing and a second end attached to at least one of the first or second elements .

[00015] According to yet other more detailed features of the invention, the power generator further includes a first repellant magnet and a second repellant magnet arranged opposite the first repellant magnet and across the second member along the movement axis. In this way, the first and second repellant magnets facilitate the movement of the second member within the housing by repelling the second member toward the opposing repellant magnet, thereby forming a non-linear spring mass system having an exponential spring coefficient .

[00016] According to other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the housing can be coupled to the first member such that the first member is fixed or stationary relative to the housing and the second member is movable relative to the housing. Alternatively, the housing can be coupled to the second member such that the second member is fixed or stationary relative to the housing and first member is movable relative to the housing. In another embodiment, the housing encloses both the first and the second members . The housing can also defines a housing gap such that either the first or the second member can be sized and disposed to fit within the housing gap and movable therein. An attachment unit, such as a belt clip, can attach the housing to an external body. The housing can also comprise a charging compartment for receiving a portable device and charging a rechargeable battery by the generated electrical current of the power generator. Alternatively, the power generator can be electromechanically connected to the portable device to be charged via an electrical wire, cable or the like. The power generator can also provide power to the portable device to be charged via an electromagnetic/RF coupling.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00017] Examples for some embodiments of the invention will be described with respect to the following drawings, in which like

reference numerals represent like features throughout the figures, and in which:

[00018] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view of an exemplary power generator unit according to an embodiment of the invention;

[00019] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a yoked magnet array of the power generator unit of FIG. 1 taken generally along line 2-2;

[00020] FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the power generator unit of FIG. 1 taken generally along line 3-3;

[00021] FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic top view of the yoked magnet array of the power generator unit of FIG. 2;

[00022] FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the power generator unit of FIG. 1 taken generally along line 5-5 illustrating the use of ferrofluid bearings;

[00023] FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic side view of an example power generator unit with a fixed second member according to an embodiment of the invention;

[00024] FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic side view of an example power generator unit with a fixed first member according to an embodiment of the invention;

[00025] FIGS . 8A-B show an exemplary wearable power generator having a clip and a port compartment according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[00026] FIG. 9 depicts a sectional view of the wearable power generator of FIGS. 8A-B, showing the movable member and the back plate of the housing;

[00027] FIG. 10 shows a view of the wearable power generator of

FIG. 9, wherein the front support plate has been removed;

[00028] FIG. 11 show an exemplary power generator for charging portable devices, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention;

[00029] FIG. 12 shows a view of the support plate of FIG. 11, including two coils;

[00030] FIG. 13 shows an inner view of the magnetic element of

FIG. 11, having an array of two magnets;

[00031] FIG. 14 shows an exemplary power generator according various embodiments of the invention, where the power generator is insertable into or otherwise embedded in a mobile device and capable of providing electric power to the mobile device;

[00032] FIG. 15 shows measured power generation results obtained in an experiment involving attaching a power generator according to one embodiment of the invention to different parts of the wearer' s body or apparel;

[00033] FIG. 16 illustrates an exploded view of a simplified power generator according to another embodiment;

[00034] FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate views of an embodiment of a first member;

[00035] FIG. 19 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a first member;

[00036] FIGS. 20A-C illustrate various views of yet another embodiment of a first member;

[00037] FIGS. 21A-C illustrate various views of a further embodiment of a first member;

[00038] FIGS. 22A-C illustrate various views of an embodiment of a second member;

[00039] FIG. 23 illustrates another embodiment of a second member;

[00040] FIGS. 24A-B illustrate views of an additional embodiment of a second member;

[00041] FIGS. 25A-B illustrate views of yet another embodiment of a second member;

[00042] FIG. 26 illustrates still another embodiment of a second member;

[00043] FIG. 27 illustrates a further embodiment of a power generator; and

[00044] FIGS. 28A-C illustrate views of shielding used for improved flux capture/transfer.

DETMLESD DESCRIPTION

[00045] In describing the example embodiments illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology is employed for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology so selected. It is to be understood that each specific element includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose.

[00046] In the following description of some of the example embodiments of the invention, directional words such as "top, " "bottom, " "upwardly, " and "downwardly" are employed by way of description and not limitation with respect to the orientation of the power generator unit and its various components as illustrated in the drawings . Similarly, directional words such as "axial" and "radial" are also employed by way of description and not limitation.

DKKINITICNS

[00047] The term "couple" (and variations thereof) , as used herein, means something that relates or links two things together. [00048] The term "electrical component, " as used herein, means an element or member relating to, producing, or operated by electricity. [00049] The term "external, " as used herein, means acting or coming from the outside.

[00050] The term "frequency, " as used herein, means the number of occurrences of a repeated motion per unit of time. Non-limiting examples of frequency include .5 Hz, 1 Hz, 2 Hz, 5 Hz, etc. [00051] The term "magnetic component, " as used herein, means any of one or more elements or members having magnetic properties or relating to magnetism or magnets, such as, for example, permanent magnets of any shape.

[00052] The term "motion" means any simple or complex movement from a first position to a second position. Non-limiting examples of motion may include those caused by walking, running, ocean waves, and the like.

[00053] The term "oscillate" (and variations thereof) , as used herein, means to move back and forth or to cause to move back and forth .

[00054] The term "oscillator, " as used herein, means an apparatus establishing and maintaining oscillations of a frequency determined by its physical constants .

[00055] The term "power generator unit, " as used herein, means any unit that generates electrical power. Non-limiting examples of a power generator unit may include battery chargers and power supplies.

[00056] The term "predetermined, " as used herein, means to settle or decide in advance.

[00057] The term "property" (and variations thereof) , as used herein, means any attribute or characteristic.

[00058] The term "range, " as used herein, means an amount or extent of variation between two values such as, for example, the difference or interval between the smallest and largest values in a frequency distribution.

[00059] The term "reciprocative, " (and variations thereof) , as used herein, means to oscillate.

[00060] The term "spring element, " as used herein, means any element that exhibits resilience or elasticity. A spring element can be a linear spring element or non-linear spring element. Examples of a linear spring elements are a coiled wire or any mechanical spring that has a constant spring coefficient. Nonlinear spring element have non-linear, e.g., exponential spring constants.

Examples include repelling magnets, e.g., rebound magnets, that have exponential spring coefficients .

[00061] A "spring-mass system," as used herein, means any system which, when displaced from its equilibrium position, experiences a

restoring force proportional to the displacement. Non-limiting examples of a spring-mass system may include a simple harmonic oscillator, a driven harmonic oscillator, a damped harmonic oscillator, and a driven damped harmonic oscillator.

[00062] The term "yoke" (and variations thereof) , as used herein, means something that binds, unites, couples, or connects at least two physical objects.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY F^BCDWENIS

[00063] FIG. 1 illustrates a power generator unit 1 having first and second members 10, 18. The first member 10 defines a longitudinal axis A and has a pair of parallel spaced opposing sides 11, 13 defining an internal gap 12 between the sides 11, 13 (see FIG. 2) . The first member 10 also includes a magnetic component defined by two spaced arrays of magnets 20, 30 respectively disposed on opposing surfaces of the sides 11, 13. Due to the presence of the magnet arrays 20, 30, the first member 10 is also referred to as the magnet rack or mag rack. Each array 20, 30 includes, respectively, one or more magnets 20a-20e, 30a-30e. For purposes of illustration, only five magnets are shown in each array 20, 30 but the number of magnets in each array 20, 30 can be as few as a single magnet to as many magnets as can be arranged on the array 20, 30. Magnets can be arranged on each array linearly (e.g., single, in pairs, etc.). Where a plurality of magnets 20a-e, 30a-e are provided in the magnet array 20, 30, a high permeability magnetic yoke 16 (discussed further below) may serve to couple and link together the magnets disposed in the same magnet array 20, 30. The second member 18 includes an electrical component 24 that may come in various forms including, but not limited to, one or more electrical coils 24a-e. For purposes of illustration, only five coils 24a-e are shown associated with the second member 18, but the number of coils in each second member 18 can be as few as a coil to as many coils as can be arranged on the second member 18. The first and second members 10, 18 are moveably

disposed relative to one another. In one exemplary embodiment, the second member 18 comprises a generally flat elongated coil carrier 22 having two opposing surfaces that face, respectively, the sides 11, 13 of the first member 10. The electrical component 24 is embedded within, laminated on, potted within, extends through and/or is otherwise disposed on the carrier 22. For example, one more coils (e.g., coils 24a-24e) are inserted within the carrier 22. The first member 10 is structured to define a rectangular gap 12 sized to allow the flat carrier 22 to slideably move within the gap 12 in a reciprocal manner along a reciprocal longitudinal movement axis that is generally co-axial with the longitudinal axis A.

[00064] As shown in FIG. 1, the first member 10 includes a number of support posts 14 extending across the gap 12 through a pair of guide slots 26 in the carrier 22 (i.e., the second member 18) that extend longitudinally along the carrier 22. The guide slots 26 extend substantially parallel to and offset from the longitudinal axis A (i.e., the reciprocal movement axis) and, in conjunction with at least the support posts 14, serve to guide the longitudinal movement of the first and second members 10, 18 relative to one another. The posts 14 may also serve to provide support to the opposing sides 11, 13 of the first member 10 in resisting magnetic forces spanning the gap 12 (see, e.g., FIG. 2). The guide slots 26 and/or support posts 14 reduce rattle and extraneous vibration. An electromagnetic interaction is created between the magnetic and electrical components 20, 30, 24 that serves to produce an electrical current in the electrical component 24 when the magnetic and electrical components 20, 30, 24 are moved relative to one another. A similar device is disclosed in U.S. Application No. 11/359,671, filed February 21, 2006, (published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007-0052302 on March 8, 2007), the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[00065] At least one of the first and second members 10, 18 may be arranged to be subjected to a simple or complex motion or motions

of one or more external objects (not shown) either directly or indirectly through a housing (see FIGS. 8A, 8B and 14) . Furthermore, a spring element (not shown in FIG. 1; see FIGS. 6-7) may be provided in the power generator unit 1 and disposed to reciprocatively move the first and second members 10, 18 relative to one another in response to simple or complex external motions . The spring element will be discussed in more detail below. The first and second members 10, 18, either alone or in combination, define a longitudinal movement axis along which the reciprocative movement of the electrical and magnetic components 20, 30, 24 relative to each other can take place. As mentioned above, the reciprocal longitudinal movement axis is generally co-axial with the longitudinal axis A. [00066] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the two yoked magnet arrays 20, 30 of the first member 10 of the power generator unit 1 include the first magnet array 20 having, for example, magnets 20a, 20b, 20c, 2Od, and 2Oe, which are spaced apart from, and respectively correspond with, magnets 30a, 30b, 30c, 3Od, and 3Oe, of the second magnet array 30. Although each magnet array 20, 30 is shown as having five magnets 20a-e, 30a-e, the number of magnets in each array 20, 30 may vary depending on space requirements and based on particular applications of the power generator unit 1. The magnets in each array 20, 30 may be made from various types of magnetic materials including, but not limited to grade 38 NdFeB (neodymium iron boron), rare earth magnets or the like.

[00067] As can be seen in FIG. 2, the polarity of each respective magnet 20a-e in the first magnet array 20 is arranged such that it is attracted to the corresponding magnets 30a-e in the second magnet array 30 across gap 12. The pole-indication arrows shown in FIG. 2 for each respective magnet point towards the north-seeking pole of the respective magnet (hereinafter north pole or north magnetic pole) . For example, the pole indication arrow for magnet 20a indicates that the magnet's north pole is adjacent to the gap 12 and facing the south pole of magnet 30a. Furthermore, each magnet 20a-e,

30a-e in a given array 20, 30 is oriented to have a polarity orientation opposite to that of any immediately adjacent magnets in the same given magnet array 20, 30. That is, the polarities of magnets in a given magnet array alternate. Additionally, a respective magnet 20a-e, 30a-e in a given magnet array 20, 30 may have a magnetic strength that is the same as or different from each other magnet 20a-e, 30a-e in the same magnet array 20, 30. [00068] The first array 20 of magnets is disposed on the first side 11 of the first member 10 and the second array 30 of magnets is disposed on the second side 13 of the first member 10 such that the magnets 20a-e, 30a-e of the two arrays 20, 30 face each other across the gap 12. In this configuration, the magnetic flux generated by the magnetic component 20, 30 is substantially perpendicular to the reciprocal movement path of the one or more electric components 24. Each magnet 20a-e, 30a-e in each of the first and second arrays 20, 30 has a magnetic polarity facing the movement path. Adjacent magnets 20a-e, 30a-e in each array 20, 30 are oriented to have sides with opposite polarities (N or S) sequentially facing the movement path within the gap 12 of the one or more coils 24a-e forming the electrical component 24. Each pair of opposing magnets 20a-e, 30a-e on the first and second sides 11, 13 are also oriented to have opposite polarities with respect to each other facing the movement path within the gap 12. The first and second sides 11, 13 of the first member 10 must be made of a sufficiently strong material so as not to buckle or bow in response to the attractive forces of the magnets 20a-e, 30a-e across the gap 12. Given that the attractive forces between the magnets 20a-e, 30a-e are related exponentially to the distance of the gap 12, a slightly larger gap 12 can be used to reduce the attractive forces and reduce the tendency for the sides 11, 13 to distort. It may be desirable to use a light-weight material for the first member 10 including, but not limited to, strong organic polymers (e.g., plastic including, but not limited to, polycarbonate, polysulfone or the like) ; high strength, lightweight

metallic alloys; and ceramics or other more dense materials (e.g., glass, brass, tungsten, etc.). As discussed below, it is also possible to construct the power generator unit 1 with support posts 14 spanning the gap 12 through slots 26 in the carrier 22 of the second member 18 to ensure structural rigidity.

[00069] As shown in FIGS. 1-2, each magnet 20a-e, 30a-e in a given magnet array 20, 30 is coupled and linked to the other magnets 20a-e, 30a-e in the same magnet array 20, 30 by a yoke 16 having a high magnetic permeability. The yoke 16 may be made of any high magnetic permeability material including, but not limited to mu (μ) metal, various nanomagnetic materials, Permalloy, steel (e.g., 1010 iron steel), Back Iron, or the like. Mu metal is a special iron nickel alloy that has extremely high magnetic permeability and is often used to provide magnetic shielding. Ideally, the yoke 16 would be configured to effect complete magnetic shielding so that the strong magnet fields of the magnet arrays 20, 30 will not exist outside of the power generator unit 1. Furthermore, due to the high magnetic permeability of the yoke 16 and the fact that adjacent magnets 20a-e, 30a-e in each magnet array 20, 30 are arranged in alternating orientations, magnetic lines of flux from each magnet 20a-e, 30a-e can be very efficiently conducted to neighboring magnets 20a-e, 30a-e in the same given magnet array 20, 30.

[00070] As shown in FIGS. 1-2, the magnets 20a-e, 30a-e are depicted as being cylindrical. However, the magnets 20a-e, 30a-e may come in various shapes including, but not limited to, cubed (i.e., square sides), bar-shaped (i.e., rectangular sides) or other geometric shape. Furthermore, the size of the gap 12 between the parallel opposing sides 11, 13 of the first member 10 is exaggerated in the figures for illustration purposes.

[00071] FIG. 3 illustrates the carrier 22 of the second member 18 movably disposed in the gap 12. Attached to, or embedded within, the carrier 22 includes the electrical component 24 comprising one or more conductive coils 24a-e (i.e., coils 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d, and/or

24e) . Any one of the coils 24a-e can be formed from conductors wound about a respective coil axis 28a-e. As illustrated, the conductors forming, respectively, the coils 24a-e are wound about their respective coil axes 28a-e. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the coil axis 28a-e is perpendicular to the movement axis or path taken by the first and second members 10, 18 as the first and second members 10, 18 move relative to each other. Although each electrical component 24 is shown as having five coils 24a-e, the number of coils in the electrical component 24 may vary depending on space requirements and based on particular applications of the power generator unit 1. As stated above, each coil 24a-e defines a coil axis 28a-e about which the turns of the respective coil 24a-e are disposed. Each coil axis 28a-e is oriented substantially parallel with the magnetic flux lines of the magnets 20a-e and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A.

[00072] During movement between the first and second members 10, 18, any given coil 24n will be intersected by magnetic flux lines of the opposite polarity as compared to the immediately adjacent coil 24a-e because of the alternating polarity orientations of respective adjacent magnets 20a-e, 30a-e in the magnet arrays 20, 30. Thus, the direction of current flow in one coil 24a-e will be opposite to the direction of current flow in an adjacent coil 24a-e. The additional benefits of wiring of the coils either in parallel or series versus wiring each coil independently of the other coils, is usually dictated by the respective geometry of the placement of the coils with respect to the magnets. In some cases, wiring of the coils 24a- e independently has the most advantage, as when a magnet pair is not interacting with a coil (end stroke) that coil is essentially providing no benefit while if connected in any way directly to the other coils, provides a loss path. Independent connection of the coils, at least the end coils, eliminates this downfall. Parallel and series wiring of the coils 24a-e are most useful when the coils 24a-e are experiencing magnetic flux from the magnets 20a-e, 30a-e

and/or when the pitch of the coils 24a-e and magnets 20a-e, 30a-e are equal. If the coils 24a-e are wired in parallel or series, and if a coil 24a-e becomes exposed (i.e., is not covered by the arrays 20,30), the coil 24a-e is non-energized and acts as a resistor to the system since the voltages from the coils 24a-e are combined. However, if the coils 24a-e are independently wired, this issue is eliminated. One of the benefits of series wiring is that higher voltages can be generated. Alternatively, diodes and other semiconductor devices known in the art can be used to effectively condition the power outputs of the coils 24a-e. As seen in FIG. 1, the coils 24a-e are connected electrically and/or mechanically to an electrical conductor 31, such as a wire, cable or the like, that can be operatively connected (mechanically and/or electrically) to an electronic device (and, by extension, to the rechargeable power source of the electronic device) .

[00073] In one exemplary embodiment, the coils 24a-e are immersed in a ferrofluid and force is applied (for example, mild centrifugation or evacuation) to facilitate infiltration. The point of the infiltration is to allow the coil 24a-e to exhibit some properties like that found in a coil wrapped around a ferrite core. A "doughnut hole" formed in the center of the coil 24a-e allows ferrofluid to flow through the center of the coil 24a-e (i.e., through the hole) . Once the fluid has evenly penetrated the coil' s intricacies the ferrofluid liquid can be evaporated to leave the nano-ferrite particles (approximately 5-10 nm in diameter) within the coil 24a-e. In another embodiment, the particles are suspended in super critical carbon dioxide which can readily evaporate following infiltration. In one embodiment, the ferromagnetic particles are fixed on the one or more electric components 24 (e.g., the coil) according to a desired direction. The ferromagnetic particles can be oriented by exposure to magnetic fields, for example, via external magnets or by energizing the coil 24a-e with electricity during evaporation. In order to prevent movement or orientation of the

ferrite particles, a trace of a soluble resin can be added to the ferrofluid so that the nano-ferrite particles are "glued down. " Alternatively, a dense solution of nano-ferrite particles in a polymerizable matrix can be used so that after the coil has been completely infiltrated, the matrix can be polymerized to leave the particles "frozen" in place. The addition of ferrofluid to the coil 24a-e or any slightly ferro-magnetic material provides improved flux transmission. In the alternative, another way of impregnating coils 24a-e is accomplished by mixing the nano-particles in epoxy resin, then using the resulting slurry to encapsulate the conductor used to form the coil 24a-e as the conductor is wound to form the coil 24a-e. The conductor used to form the coil 24a-e may come in various forms, including, but not limited to, an iron-clad wire.

[00074] FIG. 4 illustrates a diagrammatic top view of the yoked magnet array 20 of the first member 10 of the power generator unit 1 and shows two magnetic bearing arrays 32, 34 having bearing magnets 32a-d and 34a-d, respectively, which may be employed in the power generator unit 1 to reduce friction resulting from relative movement between the first and second members 10, 18. The magnets 20a-e associated with the side 11 are indicated in phantom to show their position beneath the yoke 16. FIG. 5 illustrates the power generator unit 1 as seen in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A and illustrating the use of magnetic ferrofluid bearings (as shown in FIG. 4) . The spaced apart magnetic bearing arrays 32 and 34 are aligned with narrow side edges of the carrier 22 of the second member 18. Small drops 36 of ferrofluid placed proximate each of the bearing magnets 32a-d, 34a-d allow the first and second members 10, 18 to move relative to one another in an essentially friction-free manner. The use of ferrofluid bearings is described in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,768,230; 6,809,427; and 6,812,583, which are hereby incorporated by reference. Alternatively, or in combination with the foregoing side-positioned ferrofluid-based magnetic bearing arrays 32, 34, each of the magnets 2On, 3On of the magnet arrays 20, 30 may

be provided with ferrofluid 42 which forms a meniscus 43 at a surface interface between the first and second members 10, 18. The ferrofluid meniscus 43 tends to center the carrier 22 within the gap 12 which reduces the chance of any possible friction that could result from contact of the carrier 22 with any side 11, 13 of the first member 10 that defines the gap 12. The self centering phenomena also is evident in the cross wise direction, though in this example of lesser degree due to the lesser sized edge magnets . Additionally, the meniscus 43 acts as a lens and further focuses the magnetic lines of flux from magnets 20a-e, 30a-e on the coil 24a-e.

[00075] FIG. 6 illustrates a power generator unit 100 having a first member 110 and a second member 118 arranged to move relative to one another, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The first member 110 defines longitudinal axis A and includes a magnetic component having a first magnet arrays 120 and a second magnet array (not shown) on an opposite side of the first member 110 from the first magnet array 120. The first member 110 is "stationary" relative to the second member 118 in that fasteners 112 connect the first member 110 to a housing (not shown) or other object (not shown) to which the power generator unit 100 is affixed and does not move relative to that housing or object. The second member 118 includes an electrical component 124 that may come in various forms including, but not limited to, one or more electrical coils, movable relative to one or more magnetic components (i.e., the magnet arrays 120) such that an interaction between the one or more electrical and magnetic components (124,120) generates an electrical current in the electrical component 124. In FIG. 6, a spring element 128 moveably couples the first member 110 to a carrier 122 of the second member 118 to define a spring-mass system such that when the first member 110 is subjected to external motion M, the spring element 128 causes the second element 118 to reciprocatively move relative to the first member 110 and thereby generate an electrical current in the coils 124. The embodiment depicted in FIG. 7 is substantially the same as

that depicted in FIG. 6 except that a second member 218 of a power generator unit 200 is subjected to the external motion M such that the spring element 228 causes a first member 210 to reciprocatively move relative to the second member 118 and thereby generate an electrical current in the coils 224. The second member 118 is "stationary" relative to the first member 110 in that the second member 118 is connected to a housing (not shown) or other object (not shown) to which the power generator unit 100 is affixed and does not move relative to that housing or object. In both FIGS. 6 and 7, the spring element (128, 228) may be a mechanical coil spring or other spring elements or, alternatively, a system of rebound magnets, springs or other spring elements forming a non-linear spring mass system arranged to reciprocatively move the magnet array 120, 220 away from respective ends of the second member 118, 218 as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007-0052302, published March 8, 2007, hereby incorporated by reference. Furthermore, assuming the power generator units 100 and 200 are oriented vertically, a spring element (not shown) attached between a bottom of the second member 118, 218 and a bottom edge of the first member 110, 210 could provide a similar effect (likewise if a spring element was attached on both the bottom and top sides of the second member 118, 128 and respective bottom and top sides of the first member 110, 210) . In one embodiment, the power generator unit 1, 100, 200 may contain rebound springs, magnets, or elastomeric bumpers (not shown) for over travel protection. In FIGS. 6 and 7, at least one of the first and second members 110, 210, 118, 218 is generally fixed in position relative to the other member 118, 128, 110, 210. [00076] The external motion can comprises any type of simple or complex motion or a plurality of external motions each having a predetermined frequency range and the spring element can have a plurality of spring elements that define a plurality of spring-mass systems configured to reciprocatively move the electrical and magnetic components relative to each other. Each spring element can

be a linear spring element or non-linear spring element. Examples of a linear spring elements are coiled wire or mechanical springs having constant spring coefficients . Nonlinear spring elements can be repelling magnets, e.g., rebound magnets, that have exponential spring coefficients.

[00077] The magnetic component of the power generating unit described above thus generates a concentrated magnetic field with alternating magnetic flux directions that are substantially perpendicular to the movement axis of the coils of the electrical component. As the magnets move and magnetic flux crosses each coil, an electrical current is induced in the coil. The faster the magnet moves in relation to the coil, the more electric energy is generated. The magnetic component in the first member comprises an array of opposing magnet pairs that with alternating flux paths or reversing direction from one opposing magnet pair to another. The electrical component of the second member comprises a number of coils positioned between the array of opposing magnets with their respective coil axis perpendicular to their movement axis.

[00078] Unlike a tubular type power generator, which presents a unidirectional flux to a coil, the one or more coils of the electrical element 24 of the second member 18 are exposed to alternating and bidirectional magnetic flux paths. From one end, as each opposing magnet pair (e.g., magnet pairs 20a/30a, 20b/30b, 20c/30c, 20d/30d, 20e/30e, etc.) of the arrays 20, 30 approaches a respective coil, the coil is subjected to an increasing magnetic flux in one direction as a first opposing magnet pair (e.g., a magnet pair comprising magnets 20b, 30b) approaches the coil. The magnetic flux appears at an instantaneous maximum when the first pair of magnets is directly over a center of the coil. The flux experienced by the coil then abruptly drops off as the first magnet pair departs. Then, as the second opposing magnet pair approaches the coil, the coil experiences an abruptly building flux in the opposite direction as was from the first magnet pair. Again, there exists an instantaneous

maximum flux in the opposite direction experienced by the coil, as the second pair of magnets is substantially over center of the coil . This flux reversal repeats for as many pairs of magnets are made to be within the first member 18 (i.e., the mag rack) . As the last pair of magnets departs the coil, the coil experiences a diminishing magnetic flux. It should be noted that the coils are exposed to an increasing and diminishing magnetic flux as the magnetic component approaches or departs from the electrical component 24 during movement. However, the exemplary embodiment of the present invention exposes the electrical component 24 to alternating reversals of magnetic flux direction within short distances of travel resulting in rapid flux changes experienced by the coil which substantially increases its power generation capability.

[00079] In another exemplary embodiment, for each opposing magnet pair, only one magnet can be positioned somewhere in the flux circuit and the flux could be directed to the coil with shaped ferro-magnetic materials, such as iron, where the magnet exposes the coil to magnetic flux and the ferro-magnetic material forms a conduit for alternatingly reversing magnetic flux direction. Such magnetic flux direction reversal comprises the change in flux with respect to time as a parameter for maximizing generated voltage under Faraday's law. Any physical, electrical or magnetic parameters can be selected and adjusted for tuning the resonant coupling of the power generating unit to external motion in order to maximize power generation efficiency.

[00080] As illustration of the above, FIG. 16 shows a power generator unit 160 that is simplified and/or modified from the power generator unit 1 shown in FIG. 1. The power generator unit 160 includes a first member 162, a second member 164 and a pair of bumper plates 166 (the housing surrounded the preceding elements has been omitted for clarity) . The first member 162 is shaped to define an inner gap 163 through which the second member 164 can pass. There are many configurations to which the inner surfaces that define the

gap 163 of the first member 162 (i.e., the mag rack) can be made to direct magnetic flux toward the face(s) of the second member 164. The second member 164 comprises a coil carrier 168 having at least one coil 168a. The coil 168a is connected electrically and/or mechanically to an electrical conductor 169, such as a wire, cable or the like, that can be operatively connected (mechanically and/or electrically) to an electronic device (and, by extension, to the rechargeable power source of the electronic device) . As seen in FIG. 17, in one embodiment of the first member 162, a single magnet 162a can be disposed on one of the inner surfaces of the gap 163 with a highly permeable material disposed on the opposing inner surface of the gap 163. A spacer 165 can be used to hold the magnet 162a in position on the inner surface of the gap 163. The magnet 162a is held within a central inner space 167 of the spacer 165. A highly permeable material can be placed on the external faces of these components of the first member 162, thus forming a yoke 170 for the flow of the magnetic flux. One of the poles (either N or S) of the magnet 162a faces inwardly to the gap 163 and the other pole faces outwardly to the yoke 170. In this arrangement, the path of the magnetic flux (convention is from N to S) is firstly from the N pole face of the magnet 162a, jumping the gap 163, then returning through the yoke 170 back to the S pole of the magnet 162a. Within known magnetic engineering, this is known as an example of a magnetic circuit. The mechanical analogy to this is of a pump feeding a liquid through a pipe in a closed circuit where the magnet is the pump and the yoke is the pipe. Also, a larger or stronger magnet is analogous to a more powerful pump. The gap 163 that the flux must jump is analogous to a restriction placed within the pipe. In order to aid the "flow" of the flux across the gap 163, a portion 162b of the first member 162 is shaped to extend across the gap 163 towards the magnet 162. This extension portion 162b comprises a portion of the yoke 170. It should be noted that the surface of the extension portion 162b facing the carrier 168 is generally flat. A ferrofluid

(not shown) may be disposed between the first and second members 162, 164, on either side of the gap 163, in a manner similar to that described above.

[00081] Furthermore, as seen in FIG. 19, because of the mature of the ferromagnetic properties of the yoke 170, the magnet 162a need not be placed where the face of the magnet 162a is coincident with the inner mag rack surface (i.e., the inner surfaces of the first member 162 forming the gap 163) as the magnet 162a can be placed anywhere in the circuit. For example, as seen in FIG. 19, the magnet 162a could be placed mid way along the return path in the yoke 170, between each of the "faces" (i.e., the extension portions) that extend towards each other across the gap 163. The point being to maximize the flow of the flux across the gap 163 (i.e., to minimize the flux restrictions in the yoke 170 and to configure the yoke 170 so as to maximize the concentration of flux jumping across the gap 163) . As see in FIGS. 20A-C, expounding on this basic topology, more than one magnet 162a can be placed in the magnetic circuit (i.e., more than one "pump" element) . In this configuration, the yoke 170 comprises two identical sub-yokes 170a,b that face each other. The extension portions 162b are formed along the side of each sub-yoke 170a,b that defines the gap 143 when each magnet 162a is positioned between one of the ends of the sub-yokes 170a,b; thereby defining the gap 163.

[00082] In another embodiment of the first member 162, as illustrated in FIGS. 21A-C, another convenient arrangement of magnets 162a within a yoke 170 is where the magnets 162a (two each) are disposed closely to the surfaces of the carrier 168, and the yoke 170 is contacted to the outwardly facing faces of the magnet pair where the yoke 170 is made to be roughly in a rectangular hoop, thus connecting the path of the flux, half around one side of the carrier 168 in the "C" section of the yoke 170, and half around the opposite "C". The two magnets 162a are arranged such that their poles are oppositely facing (i.e., N-S, N-S). This arrangement produces a

concentrated flux between the inwardly facing faces of the magnets 162a while providing a very low loss (reluctance) path to the outwardly facing poles. This arrangement, allows for fairly thin magnets 162a and outward yoke elements to be utilized. This is in many cases an advantage where the packaging requirements of the intended usage, demand a generally flat, rectangular configuration (something un-achievable with the tubular devices) . Also, because the flux is trapped within the yoke 170, very little or no residual flux is allowed to leak from the yoke 170, whereas in the tubular devices, the return path of the magnet is simply the surrounding air. Because of the high magnetic field present, sensitive equipment and or magnetically sensitive objects (credit cards) would be compromised by the tubular device. In the above mag rack (i.e., first member 162) arrangement, the hoop is made to "ring" the carrier 168, thus providing for a flux return path from one side of the carrier 168, around the edge of the carrier 168, to the opposite outward side. It should be noted that, for this arrangement, the path of the return flux is roughly perpendicular to the travel axis. With this simple magnet arrangement, noting the reciprocating linear motion of the mag rack (i.e., the first member 162) relative to the carrier 168 (i.e., the second member 164) , from one end, as the first member 162 approaches the coil 168a, the coil 168a experiences a building magnetic flux, until such time that the magnets are directly over center of the coil 168a. Continuing, as the first member 162 departs from the coil 168a, the coil 168a experiences a diminishing magnetic flux. From physics (Faraday's Law) the building and diminishing flux within the coil 168a generates an electric voltage in the coil (power) . The reciprocating motion of the first member 162 relative to the second member 164 thus allows for repetitive power events to occur (two events per cycle) . This building and diminishing of flux within the coil 168a is also present in the tubular devices as well as the similar power events, but notice that the direction of the

flux in this example is oriented perpendicular to the travel path, not parallel .

[00083] The above-described single pair magnet arrangement provides improvement over the tubular devices, but further improvement is possible. For example, taking two each of the previous hoop yoke assemblies and connecting them in close proximity along the carrier 168 (with the magnet orientations for the first pair of magnets 162 being "downward", N-S and "upward: N-S), the yokes 170 for the flux return paths are essentially identical, but the actual flow of the flux is dramatically different and improved. Due to the close proximity of the return poles of each magnet 162a, the flux tends to flow directly along the travel direction axis, to the next magnet 162a. This arrangement allows for greater flux within the circuit (i.e., there are four "pumps") while, at the same time, lessening the reluctance of the return path (shorter "pipe") and provides for two jumps of the flux across the gap 163. Further, the need for the highly permeable material around the sides of the hoop is diminished and/or eliminated, thus a simple flat plate (sheet metal) connecting the back faces of the magnets 162a is sufficient to comprise the yoke 170. When the dual pair magnet arrangement (i.e., N-S-Down, N-S-Up) is placed to surround the carrier 168, the power pulse from the previous example is different and improved. Similarly as before, starting form one end, as the first member 162 (i.e., the mag rack) approaches the coil 168a, the coil 168a experiences a building magnetic flux. As the first member 162 continues over the coil 168a, the flux from the first pair of magnets 162a diminishes rapidly, then the flux of the second pair of magnets 162a builds rapidly, combining, the flux within the coil 168a diminishes as the first member 162 departs the coil 168a. The process repeats on the return trip. From this, it is clear that the beginning and exiting flux transitions are similar to those in the previous example, but inserted in the middle is a very large and abrupt dual flux transition. It is this strong transition that makes for improved

voltage (power) generated in the coil. It is clear that, the faster the magnet 162a moves in relation to the coil 168a, the more electric energy is generated and or the faster the frequency of reciprocation. This inverted pair magnet train can be repeated as much as physical volume will allow, gaining as many flux reversals as possible. Realize though, that filling the available travel distance with more magnet pairs, reduces the reciprocation distance of the first member 162. Thus, an optimal sizing is needed for the specific situation. This optimization is usually found empirically, but the rule of thumb is that the overall travel distance should be roughly 2/3 the distance if the first member 162 (i.e., the mag rack) itself. [00084] The second member 164 of FIG. 16 can come in various forms, as described in more detail below. The features relating to the construction of the second member 164 are equally adaptable to the second members 18, 118, 218 described above and any second member described herein.

[00085] Coils may be secured to the second member 164 using various methods including, but not limited to, lamination, potting, and/or encapsulation with epoxy. The second member 164/carrier 168 comes in various body types including, but not limited to, a symmetrical body, a non-symmetrical body, a two-piece body or the like. The second member 164/carrier 168 may be made from a variety of materials including, but not limited to, plastic, nonmagnetic/non-conductive materials, glass, fiberglass or the like. The coils are formed, in general, by looping a conductor, such as a wire (the number of turns in the coil depends on the gauge of the wire) . For example, for a coil of any given size, a thick wire provides a low number of turns and has a shorter length as compared to a thin wire which has a higher number of turns and is substantially longer. The conductor, usually in the form of a wire, used to form the coils 24a-e, or any other coil described herein, can be made from a variety of conductive materials including, but not limited to copper, gold, platinum or the like. The wire gauge of the

conductor used to form the coils needs to be selected in view of the "downstream" components (i.e., "impedance matching" in view of the devices that the power generator unit is intended to recharge) . As seen in FIGS. 22A, the coil 168a of the second member 164 is encapsulated within the carrier 168 using adhesive (not shown) and fixtured between two plates 172 (i.e., potting). FIG. 23 illustrates the coil 168a (in this instance, a bobbin-less coil) of the second member 164 being inserted into a through-bore 174 in the carrier 168 and then held in place by a pair of lamination sheets 176 placed on opposite sides of the carrier 168. FIGS. 24A-B illustrate a second member 164 formed by a combination of molding and laminating. The coil 168a (in this instance, a bobbin-less coil) of the second member 164 being inserted into recess or pocket 178 in the carrier 168 and then held in place by a lamination sheet 176 placed over the coil 168a on the open side of the pocket 178 of the carrier 168. The pocket 178 may be formed in the carrier 168 during molding of the second member 164. As seen in FIGS. 25A-B, a second member 164 formed by a sandwiching the coil 168a between two sub-carriers 180 which are bonded, welded or otherwise joined together. Each sub- carrier 180 includes a pocket 182 that is formed during molding of the sub-carrier 180. The coil 168a (in this instance, a bobbin-less coil) is inserted into recess or pocket 178 in the carrier 168 and then held in place by a lamination sheet 176 placed over the coil 168a on the open side of the pocket 178 of the carrier 168. The pocket 178 may be formed in the carrier 168 during molding of the second member 164. FIG. 26 illustrates a second member 164 formed by insert molding where the carrier 168 is molded around the coil 168a during the molding process (i.e., the coil 168a is molded into the carrier 164 at the time of injection molding) .

[00086] FIGS. 8A-B illustrate a wearable power generator unit 301 for charging portable devices, according to another embodiment of the invention. The wearable power generator unit 301 includes a housing 302, a movable member 304, an attachment unit 306 (e.g., a clip/hook,

hook and loops fasteners or the like) for attaching the power generator unit 301 to a person, animal or other object, and a charging compartment 308 for holding a rechargeable electronic device. As seen in FIG. 8B, the housing 302 attaches to the clothing of a person (e.g. the person's belt line, around the neck, hip, thigh, etc.) via the clip/hook 306. The movable member 304 can freely move up and down in a reciprocating motion through a gap 310 of the housing 302. The moveable member 304 is attached to the housing 302 inside the gap 310 through a mass spring system (not shown) which captures the external motion asserted on the housing 302 and facilitates the reciprocating movement of the moveable member 304 through the gap 310. The moveable member 304 is similar in structure and/or function to the second members 18, 118, 218 described above while the housing 302 is similar in structure and/or function to the first members 10, 110, 210 described above. The external motion may include any unintentional or inadvertent human movement such as jogging, running, etc., which transfers through the spring mass system to the movable member 304. The external motion can be simple or complex, including shaking, bending, stretching, rotating the power generator such that the movable member 304 reciprocates within the gap 310.

[00087] The movable member 304 also includes a gap (not shown) , inside of which a coil is located. The reciprocating movement of the movable member 304 inside the gap 310 of the housing 302 creates electric power within a coil, as is explained further with reference to FIG. 9 below. In the alternative, the rechargeable electronic device can be worn separately from and/or elsewhere on the body of user but electrically connected to the power generator unit by an electric conductor such as a cord, wire, cable or the like. In another alternative, electromagnetic/RF coupling can also be used to transfer power to the electronic device from the power generator unit in a conventional manner.

[00088] FIG. 9 depicts a sectional view of the wearable power generator unit 301 of FIGS. 8A-B, showing the movable member 304 and the back plate of the housing 302. The movable member 104 includes a gap 312, dividing the movable member 304 into two separate support plates 304a, 304b. Arranged inside the gap 312 is a coil plate 316, attached to the housing 302 via pins 322a, 322b. As the movable member 304 reciprocates inside the gap 310 of the housing 302, the coil plate 316 is stationary relative to the housing 302. The "stationary" coil plate 316 thus limits movement of the moveable member 304 relative to the housing 302 to the length of the gap 312. [00089] FIG. 10 shows the wearable power generator unit 301 wherein the front support plate 304b has been removed. As can be seen in FIG. 10, a coil 318 positioned in the centered of the coil plate 316, such that the coil 318 is wrapped by the support plates 304a, 304b of the movable member 304. Two springs 332a, 332b are attached to the coil plate 116 via pins 328a, 328b. The other end of the springs 332a,b are attached to the lower end of the moveable member 304. The springs 232a, 328b, in combination with the moveable member 304, provides a mass spring system that facilitates the reciprocating movement of the moveable member 304 within the gap 310 of the housing 302.

[00090] The basic relationship between the spring and the mass is direct suspension of the mass by the spring allowing the mass to oscillate with the spring so that there is only one degree of freedom in the system. This spring mass system is tuned such that the inherent natural, or "resonant", frequency of vibration of the suspended mass equals, or nearly equals, one or several common frequencies of the device' s motion. As the housing of the device moves, the kinetic energy of the housing is transferred to the spring and mass system. The energy stored in the system oscillates between kinetic energy of motion and spring potential energy. At the upper and lower most extent of the mass travel, the energy is stored in the spring only.

[00091] The support plate 304a of the moveable member 304 includes a plurality of magnets 330 arranged as a linear array in the direction of the movement 342 of the movable member 304. The arrangement of the magnets 330 within the array was discussed with reference to FIGs. 1-6. The support plate 304b of the moveable member 304 also includes an array of magnets aligned opposite the array of magnets 330. As the moveable member 304 reciprocates inside the gap 310 of the housing 302, the array of magnets 330 move up and down relative to the coil 318. Since the array of magnets 330 are arranged in a way that the polarity of adjacent magnets are opposite to one another, each upward or downward movement of the moveable member 304 creates a plurality of changes in the magnetic flux, inducing electric current through the coil 318. The coil 318, in turn, is electrically coupled to a power port (not shown) to supply the generated power, including electric power to a mobile device connected to the power port or integrated therein. The coil 318 comprises a conductor wound around a point 338 on an axis 340 which is substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement 342 of the moveable member 304.

[00092] FIG. 11 show an exemplary power generator unit 401 for charging portable devices, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. The wearable power generator unit 401 includes a housing 402, a moveable member 404, and a stationary plate 416. The moveable member 404 includes a gap (not shown) , through which the stationary plate 416 is fitted such that two support plates of the moveable member 404 wrap the stationary plate 416. The moveable member 404 is coupled to the housing 402 via two springs 432a, 432b, together constituting a spring mass system that allows the moveable member 404 to reciprocate along the stationary plate 416, inside the housing 402. The moveable member 404 includes a magnetic element 430 and the stationary plate 416 includes two coils 418 (one of which is visible in FIG. 14) . As the moveable member 404 reciprocates inside the housing 402, the magnetic element 430 slides up and down along

the stationary plate 416, inducing electric current through the coils 418. The coils 418 are in turn connected to power ports 454a, 454b, providing electric power for a mobile device connected to one of the power ports 454a, 454b.

[00093] In order to facilitate the reciprocating movement of the moveable member 430 along the stationary plate 416, the stationary plate 416 is provided with two repellant magnets 452a, 452b, on its two ends. The polarity of the two repellant magnets depends on the polarity of the magnets included in an array of magnets inside the magnetic element 430. For example, in FIG. 11, the polarity of the repellant magnet 452a is opposite the polarity of the upper-most magnet in the array of magnets of the magnetic element 430 (the array of magnets not shown in FIG. 11) . Similarly, the polarity of the repellant magnet 452b is opposite the polarity of the lower-most magnet in the array of magnets of the magnetic element 430. Accordingly, the two repellant magnets 452a, 452b push away the magnetic element 430 as the moveable member 404 reciprocates along the stationary plate 416, providing additional rebound for the moveable member 404 during each upward or downward movement. FIG. 12 shows a view of the support plate 416, including the two coils 418. FIG. 13 shows an inner view of the magnetic element 430, having an array of two magnets 434a, 434b.

[00094] As amplitude increases, the moveable member of the power generator unit will come into contact with the ends of the housing (i.e., the moveable member will strike the housing) and lose energy of motion. However, as bumper or rebounding elements (e.g., magnets, springs or the like) are incorporated into the housing, the energy of motion of the mass of the moveable member is stored briefly by the rebound magnet and imparted back to the mass when oppositely moving (e.g., a mini-spring mass system operable at the ends of the housing) . The spring rate of the rebound spring elements is usually selected to be very high. Therefore, as the mass of the moveable member is engaged with the rebound element, the spring restorative

force is much greater than the main support (suspension) spring that connects the moveable member to the, relatively, stationary housing. In this instant, the natural frequency of the spring mass system is much greater than it was when the moveable member (i.e., the mass) was in it' s mid-travel position.

[00095] The net effect is that as the amplitude of the mass (i.e., the moveable member) reaches the rebound elements, the system begins to respond at a higher natural frequency. If energy is continued to be input from the external environment (e.g., strong walking or the like) at the, originally, tuned "main spring" frequency, the system vibrates faster for a period of time and then continues to vibrate at its home natural frequency until the amplitude of the mass (i.e., the moveable member) interacts with the rebound elements. Then, the cycle repeats.

[00096] If, on the other hand, the amplitude is great and the external vibration is greater (e.g., someone is producing input (i.e., energy from vibrations) from the external environment by running or by direct shaking) , then the system will vibrate at a higher frequency, thus producing more power (i.e., the combined interaction of all the spring elements produces a higher apparent natural frequency of the system) .

[00097] FIG. 14 shows an exemplary power generator unit in accordance with various embodiments discussed above, where the power generator unit is insertable into a mobile device and capable of providing electric power to the mobile device. The mobile device includes a receptacle for receiving the power generator or is electrically connected to an adapter having a receptacle for receiving the power generator. According to this embodiment, a mobile device is designed to be incorporate the power generator such that the mobile device is recharged as the power generator captures any motion, intended or unintended, of the mobile device to create electric power for recharging the battery of the mobile device.

[00098] FIG. 27 illustrates a further embodiment of a power generator unit 260 having a housing 262 and a carrier 264 which moves within the housing 262 along a track 266 that defines a longitudinal reciprocal movement axis (not shown) . The housing 262 includes a pair of tubular, electrically conductive rails 268 on opposite sides of the housing 262 that engage slots 270 formed on opposite sides of the carrier 264 to comprise a portion of the track 266. [00099] The housing 262 also includes a magnetic component defined by two spaced arrays of magnets 272, 274 respectively disposed on opposing internal surfaces on opposite sides of the housing 262. Each array 272, 274 includes, respectively, one or more magnets 272a-272e, 274a-274e. For purposes of illustration, only five magnets are shown in each array 272, 274 but the number of magnets in each array 272, 274 can be as few as a single magnet to as many magnets as can be arranged on the array 272, 274. Magnets can be arranged on each array linearly (e.g., single, in pairs, etc.). Where a plurality of magnets 272a-e, 274a-e are provided in the magnet array 272, 274, a high permeability magnetic yoke 280 (comprised of Back Iron , mu metal or the like) may serve to couple and link together the magnets disposed in the same magnet array 272, 274. The housing 262 further includes a cover 276 containing slots into which the magnets 272a-e of the array 272 may be inserted. The carrier 264 includes an electrical component 278 that may come in various forms including, but not limited to, at least one electrical coil.

[000100] The electrical component 278 (i.e., the coil) is disposed within a pocket of the carrier 264 and may be held in place via lamination, potting, epoxy or the like. The housing 262 is structured to define an internal rectangular gap (not shown) sized to allow the relatively flat, thin, rectangular carrier 264 to slideably move along the track 266 within the gap in a reciprocal manner along the longitudinal reciprocal movement axis .

[000101] The housing 262 is subjected to a simple or complex motion or motions of one or more external objects (not shown) either directly or indirectly. Furthermore, bumper elements may be disposed on ends of the carrier 264 that come into contact with the housing 262 at either end of the track 266.

[000102] The coil 278 is electrically connected to a pair of brush bars 282 (each brush bar 282 being disposed within a respective on of the slots 270) that engage the rails 268. In this manner, electric current generated in the coil 278 can be conducted to the rails 268. [000103] The two yoked magnet arrays 272, 274 are spaced apart and positioned such that magnets 272a, 272b, 272c, 272d, and 272e respectively correspond with magnets 274a, 274b, 274c, 274d, and 274e. The magnets in each array 272, 274 may be made from various types of magnetic materials including, but not limited to grade 38 NdFeB (neodymium iron boron), rare earth magnets or the like. [000104] The polarity of each respective magnet 272a-e in the first magnet array 272 is arranged such that it is attracted to the corresponding magnets 274a-e in the second magnet array 274 across the gap 276. Each magnet 272a-e, 274a-e in a given array 272, 274 is oriented to have a polarity orientation opposite to that of any immediately adjacent magnets in the same given magnet array 272, 274. That is, the polarities of magnets in a given magnet array alternate. Additionally, a respective magnet 272a-e, 274a-e in a given magnet array 272, 274 may have a magnetic strength that is the same as or different from each other magnet 272a-e, 274a-e in the same magnet array 272, 274.

[000105] As described above, external movement/force on the housing 262 (e.g., shaking) moves the carrier 264 along the track 266. As the coil 278 passes under each pair of magnets (272a/274a, 272b/274b, etc.), the coil 278 experiences magnetic flux and an electric current is generated. This electric current is then conducted to the brush bars 282 and to the rails 268 which are connected electrically and/or mechanically to an electrical conductor

(not shown) , such as a wire, cable or the like, that exits the housing 262 and can be operatively connected (mechanically and/or electrically) to an electronic device (and, by extension, to the rechargeable power source of the electronic device) . Alternatively, diodes and other semiconductor devices known in the art can be used to effectively condition the power output of the coil 278. [000106] FIGS. 28A-C illustrate views of shielding used for improved flux capture/transfer. A magnet member 290 includes a gap 292, through which an electrical member (not shown) having a coil or the like may pass. The magnet member 290 includes a number of magnets 294. The magnet member 290 includes a yoke 296 that has two plates 298 of high saturation material (e.g., iron such as Back Iron) positioned on opposite sides of the magnet member 290,adjacent to the magnets 294. A plate of shielding 300 comprised of a low intensity highly permeable material (e.g., mu metal) is positioned adjacent to each plate 298. The use of the shielding plates 300 on the back iron 410 improves magnetic flux capture/transfer.

[000107] FIG. 15 shows measured power generation results obtained in an experiment involving attaching a power generator according to one embodiment of the invention to different parts of the wearer' s body or apparel. For most locations the approximate power generation is shown with both fast and slow walking motions . According to the experiment, wearing the device attached to a cord suspended around the wearer' s neck (not unlike a locket) is surprisingly effective, most likely because the power generator tends to bounce on the wearer' s upper chest or breastbone. The hip location and outer thigh locations are also quite effective.

[000108] From the foregoing description it would be appreciated that the present invention involves a power generator that provides electricity in response to external motion. The power generator according to an embodiment of the present invention can be attached to a variety of different locations on the human body or other moving objects such as a person's belt line, around the neck, hip, thigh,

car, purse, or other carrying devices, to provide power to external mobile devices . The power generator can also be worn by livestock, pets or other domesticated or wild animals (e.g., dogs, cats, cattle, horses, wolves, bears or the like) . Alternatively, the power generator can be incorporated into and become an integral part of the mobile device. The power generator captures and harvests the energy from bodily movement or motion and transforms that energy into electrical power that can be used to power a recharge the battery of mobile devices. Such bodily movement or motion may be unintended, such as walking, jogging, running, etc., or intended, such as shaking the device to generate power more rapidly.

[000109] In one embodiment, the present invention selects and adjusts one or more properties of the first member, the second member, and the spring element based on the predetermined frequency range of the motion to maximize the relative movement between the electrical component and the magnetic component. In this way, the present invention efficiently generates electric power by capturing lost kinetic energy by tuning the power generator unit to one, or several, common frequencies of motion. The advantage of this approach is that the power generator may generate electricity from a small amplitude input motion.

[000110] The following claims are thus to be understood to include what is specifically illustrated and described above, what is conceptually equivalent, what can be obviously substituted and also what essentially incorporates the essential idea of the invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various adaptations and modifications of the just-described preferred embodiment can be configured without departing from the scope of the invention. The illustrated embodiment has been set forth only for the purposes of example and that should not be taken as limiting the invention. Therefore, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced other than as specifically described herein.