| abstract |
The invention is directed to elements implantable in a human body, such as sensors, that receive power from an implantable motion-powered energy source. The motion-powered energy source generates electrical energy by converting mechanical energy in the form of motion into electrical energy. The electrical energy, which may be stored in a storage element, powers the element. The motion-powered energy source may include a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) accelerometer that generates electrical energy in response to motion. In one embodiment of the invention, a motion-powered energy source disposed proximate to a heart may convert some of the mechanical energy of the heart to electrical energy, which powers the element. |