A Self-Powered Trailer

Purdue University researchers are in collaboration with trailer manufacturer Wabash on an experimental tractor-trailer that recaptures its own electricity from vibrations, heat, and airflow. The work could make enormous strides in the name of sustainability. Watch this video to learn more.

“We’re investigating several ways to harvest electricity from a trailer’s normal operation,” said James Gibert , associate professor of mechanical engineering and one of the project’s principal investigators. “These modalities could be the vibration of the suspension system, aeroelastic vibrations of the composite panels, or harvesting the air used in the braking system.”