Energy-efficient military uniforms to make solar-powered necktie so last season

This definitely isn’t the first time we’ve heard of wearable solar cells , but a new development underway in the UK could certainly have a greater impact than, say, an iPod-charging denim jacket . By combining photovoltaic cells with thermoelectric devices , a team of researchers is working to create new, more efficient uniforms for British troops. The solar-powered outfits could cut the weight of traditional battery packs in half, allow for significantly longer military missions, and actually absorb energy across the electromagnetic spectrum, decreasing the possibility of detection by infrared technology. To ensure 24-hour power, the solar cells will collect energy in daylight, with thermoelectric devices taking on the task at night. A prototype is set for 2013, but we wonder how long it will take to hit the catwalk. Energy-efficient military uniforms to make solar-powered necktie so last season originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 03:03:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds . Permalink

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