Scientists in Kazakhstan are working on a new device designed to transform everyday noise and motion into electricity. The project, led by researchers at Satbayev University in Almaty, focuses on building a compact device capable of capturing mechanical vibrations from the surrounding environment and converting them into electrical energy.
The innovation could offer a new way to power small electronic devices in locations where traditional power sources are unreliable or difficult to maintain. Researchers say the technology may be particularly useful for remote monitoring systems and sensors that currently rely on batteries or wired electricity.
Mechanical vibrations occur when objects move back and forth around a stable position. These vibrations are generated by many common activities, including sound waves, wind movement, transportation systems, and industrial machinery. Despite being present almost everywhere, this form of energy has remained largely untapped.
Scientists involved in the project believe these constant environmental vibrations could provide a steady source of energy for low-power electronics. By capturing this motion and converting it into electricity, the device could allow sensors and monitoring equipment to operate independently for long periods without frequent maintenance.
Device designed to capture energy from environmental vibrations
The experimental system is designed to collect energy from vibrations within a frequency range of several tens to a few hundred hertz. Such frequencies are commonly produced in both natural and industrial environments where constant sound and movement generate mechanical motion.
To convert these vibrations into usable electricity, the device uses an electromagnetic converter. When external vibrations cause components inside the system to move, small electrical currents are produced. These currents can then be stored or directly used to power low-energy electronic devices.
Scientists at Satbayev University are developing device that can generate electricity from noise and environmental vibrations. The technology converts everyday mechanical vibrations into power for IoT sensors, potentially enabling self-powered monitoring systems in remote areas. pic.twitter.com/3GUwIMwFzs
— Tom Marvolo Riddle (@tom_riddle2025) March 9, 2026
Project leader Albanbay Nurtay said the goal is to create an independent power source for remote technologies. According to Nurtay, the system is intended to efficiently transform mechanical vibrations into electricity, allowing monitoring devices to operate continuously without relying on batteries.
Researchers say the approach could support Internet of Things (IoT) sensors placed in distant or difficult-to-reach areas, where replacing batteries regularly can be costly and time-consuming.
The electromagnetic principle converts motion into electricity
The technology relies on the scientific principle known as electromagnetic induction. This law states that electricity can be generated when a magnetic field moves relative to an electrical conductor.
Inside the prototype device, magnets and coils shift when exposed to external vibrations. This motion produces a small electrical signal that can be captured and used to power nearby electronic systems.
Engineers are focusing on improving the system’s efficiency under varying vibration levels. Natural vibrations rarely occur at a single, constant frequency, meaning the device must function effectively across different motion patterns.
The research project is currently moving through design and testing phases. Scientists have already developed digital models to simulate how the device responds to different vibration conditions. The next stage will involve building experimental prototypes and testing them using a specialized platform designed to reproduce various environmental vibrations.
Researchers say the device that produces electricity from noise could eventually support monitoring systems in industries, environmental research stations, and agricultural operations. If successful, vibration-powered devices may help reduce dependence on disposable batteries while enabling long-term monitoring in remote areas.