Researchers at the National University of Singapore have developed a new battery-free technology that can power devices using ambient radio frequency (RF) signals like Wi-Fi and cellular transmissions. This system utilizes a compact antenna and an innovative matching network to efficiently harvest RF energy and convert it to usable direct current power, capable of powering small electronics and sensors. This breakthrough has the potential to eliminate the need for batteries in various Internet of Things (IoT) devices, promoting sustainability and reducing electronic waste.
HD Hyundai plans to unveil its first commercial hydrogen-powered 14-ton wheeled excavator at Bauma 2025. This excavator utilizes a hydrogen fuel cell system developed by Hyundai Mobis, providing a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional diesel-powered machinery. Field testing is already underway with the goal of commercial availability in 2026 after the official debut. This excavator represents a significant step towards decarbonizing the construction industry.
Hacker News commenters express skepticism about the viability of hydrogen fuel cell excavators. Several question the overall efficiency of hydrogen as a fuel source, citing energy losses in production, storage, and transport compared to battery-electric alternatives. Some raise concerns about the practicality of hydrogen refueling infrastructure for construction sites. Others point to the successful adoption of battery-electric excavators and question the need for hydrogen in this application. A few commenters note the potential advantages of hydrogen for heavy-duty equipment needing longer run times or operating in extreme conditions, but acknowledge the current limitations in infrastructure and cost. The overall sentiment leans towards favoring battery-electric technology as the more mature and efficient option for excavators.
Summary of Comments ( 31 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43232724
Hacker News commenters discuss the potential and limitations of the battery-free technology. Some express skepticism about the practicality of powering larger devices, highlighting the low power output and the dependence on strong ambient RF signals. Others are more optimistic, suggesting niche applications like sensors and IoT devices, especially in environments with consistent RF sources. The discussion also touches on the security implications of devices relying on potentially manipulable RF signals, as well as the possibility of interference with existing radio communication. Several users question the novelty of the technology, pointing to existing energy harvesting techniques. Finally, some commenters raise concerns about the accuracy and hype often surrounding university press releases on scientific breakthroughs.
The Hacker News thread discussing the NUS battery-free technology powered by ambient RF signals contains several interesting comments, mostly focusing on the practicality and potential applications of the technology.
Several commenters express skepticism about the actual power output and its applicability to real-world scenarios. One commenter questions how much power can realistically be harvested from ambient RF, pointing out the limitations imposed by physics and the inverse square law. They suggest the power harvested would be minuscule and only suitable for extremely low-power devices. This sentiment is echoed by others who doubt the feasibility of powering anything beyond very simple sensors with this technology. They raise concerns about the efficiency of the energy harvesting process and the variability of ambient RF signals.
Another line of discussion revolves around the specific use cases where this technology might be advantageous. Some commenters propose niche applications like powering small sensors in remote or hard-to-reach locations where battery replacement is difficult or impossible, such as inside walls or within concrete structures. One commenter specifically mentions environmental monitoring as a potential application. Others suggest potential uses in medical implants, eliminating the need for batteries and the associated risks of surgery for replacement.
A few comments also delve into the technical aspects of the technology. One commenter inquires about the frequency range the device operates on and speculates about the potential impact of 5G rollout on the availability of ambient RF energy. Another asks about the size of the antenna required for efficient energy harvesting, highlighting the potential trade-off between device size and power output.
Some users raise concerns about the potential security implications of devices powered by ambient RF. They suggest the possibility of malicious actors manipulating RF signals to disrupt the operation of these devices or even potentially using them for surveillance purposes.
Finally, some comments simply express general interest in the technology and its potential future development, while others link to related research and projects in the field of energy harvesting. Overall, the discussion reflects a mixture of excitement and cautious skepticism, acknowledging the potential of the technology while also highlighting the significant challenges that need to be addressed before it can become widely applicable.