University of Southampton - No batteries required

Scientists are developing technology that could enable people to power MP3 players and other devices through clothes and carpets. A team at the University of Southampton's School of Electronics and Computer Science is researching how energy can be generated through movement, eliminating the need for batteries. The research, funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, will use special "energy harvesting film" to convert movement into power - although one of the biggest challenges is creating material that can survive washing.