Purdue University researchers have discovered that the acoustic waves from rap music have the potential to power a new type of miniature medical sensor that stores energy to power medical devices, according to a university news release.
At the center of the sensor is a vibrating cantilever, a thin beam attached at one end. Music within the frequency range of 200-500 hertz causes the lever to vibrate, which generates electricity that a capacitor stores. Researchers experimented with four types of music: rap, blues, jazz and rock. They found rap worked the best because it contains a lot of low frequency sound like the bass.
Researchers say the sensor could be used in a system for treating incontinence in people with paralysis by checking bladder pressure and stimulating the spinal cord to close the sphincter that controls urine flow from the bladder.
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At the center of the sensor is a vibrating cantilever, a thin beam attached at one end. Music within the frequency range of 200-500 hertz causes the lever to vibrate, which generates electricity that a capacitor stores. Researchers experimented with four types of music: rap, blues, jazz and rock. They found rap worked the best because it contains a lot of low frequency sound like the bass.
Researchers say the sensor could be used in a system for treating incontinence in people with paralysis by checking bladder pressure and stimulating the spinal cord to close the sphincter that controls urine flow from the bladder.
Related Articles on Medical Devices:
Center for Devices and Radiological Health Releases 2011 Ombudsman Report
Stanford Partners with FDA to Improve Medical Device Approval Process
FDA Announces 2012 Medical Device Strategic Priorities