SolarBotanic is a company which researches and specializes in an emerging tech dubbed biomimicry -- which seeks to mimic nature, and use nature-inspired methods to solve human problems. SolarBotanic is focusing on energy production, and, to that end, they've developed what they call Energy Harvesting Trees. The
trees aren't "real," (they're just modeled on real ones); these are composed of Nanoleafs, which use
nanotechnology designed to capture the "sun's energy in photovoltaic and thermovoltaic cells, then convert the radiation into electricity." They also have stems and twigs which house nano-piezovoltaic material which act as generators producing electricity from movement or kinetic energy caused by wind or rain. The company has several patents on the technology already, and are currently seeking partners for funding and development. We don't really have any details about what these
fake trees look like -- but Thom Yorke's probably going to write a song about them.
posted February 24th 2009 5:24PM
They are already cutting Amazon forest to make space for artificial one.What about the grass ?? Imagine the whole planet grass only,what a beautiful sight would that be.If you're an greedy capitalist you must have erection right now just reading about this prospects.
The word "Powerplant" taken to the next level!
Technology certainly has come a long way and in the process made some daily tasks somewhat easier. While this completely unique approach to harvesting wind and solar power from an artificial tree is quite fascinating but there are a couple of basic requirements that would have to to be met before it can be successful.
> Will it be affordable? This is very advanced technology and I can't imagine that it will be cheap!
> Will it be reliable? I think this will be the most important factor. High tech does not automatically translate into durability.
Those questions will answered a very affirmative YES before it wil ever make it to the production line. But even if it does and the price is right I would still lean toward the traditional solar panels and horizontal axis wind turbines. Why? Simplicity! I'm all about new innovative ideas but some things are just better off if left simple.
If you would like to read about simple wind turbines and and other forms of alternative energy check out this website. http://www.power-talk.net