WO2025224763A1 - Smart ring with flexible thermo-electric generator for energy harvesting and battery augmentation - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention discloses a smart ring equipped with a flexible thermo-electric generator (TEG) designed to efficiently harvest energy from temperature differentials and augment the battery capacity of the device Unlike traditional energy harvesting mechanisms, the flexible TEG integrated into the smart ring adapts to various ring sizes (hence finger sizes), ensuring optimal contact and enhanced energy conversion regardless of the user's finger circumference.

Description

SMART RING WITH FLEXIBLE THERMO-ELECTRIC GENERATOR FOR ENERGY HARVESTING AND BATTERY AUGMENTATION

FIELD OF INVENTION

[1] The present disclosure generally relates to smart rings with energy harvesting mechanism. Particularly, the present disclosure provides a flexible thermo-electric generator (TEG) integrated with the wearable ring for generating energy for battery augmentation.

BACKGROUND

[2] The subject matter discussed in the background section should not be assumed to be prior art merely as a result of its mention in the background section. Similarly, a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with the subject matter of the background section should not be assumed to have been previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the background section merely represents different approaches, which in and of themselves may also correspond to implementations of the claimed technology.

[3] As technology continues to advance, there is an increasing demand for portable and wearable devices. In general, wearable devices are predominantly used by the customer and one such wearable device includes wearable ring which provides the users with one or more physiological measurement and vital parameters for continuous monitoring and analysis. Such wearable rings are powered by an inbuilt battery for powering various functions of the rings. Alternatively, such wearable rings are also provided with charging ports which can be connected to an external charger. Also, wireless chargers are available to power such wearable devices.

[4] However, powering these devices remains a challenge, often relying on batteries that require frequent recharging or replacement. Due to continuous use of wearable rings, there is a need to provide a charging mechanism so that such wearable rings can be used for longer duration. Currently, there are no mechanisms available which can continue to charge the wearable rings while worn by the user and hence, there is a need for a technology which can harvest energy while the user is wearing the rings so that the charge of the wearable rings can be augmented. [5] Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) have emerged as a promising solution for harvesting energy from waste heat, such as body heat, and converting it into electrical power. Integrating TEGs into wearable accessories like rings provides a convenient and unobtrusive way to continuously power small electronic devices. There is a need for an integrated energy harvesting mechanism which can be flexible, integrated with the wearable rings and can produce electrical energy so that the battery life of the wearable ring can be increased.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[6] A general objective of the invention is to provide a wearable ring with a thermoelectric generator (TEG) module for harvesting energy to augment battery life of the wearable rings.

[7] Another objective of the invention is to provide a flexible thermoelectric generator (TEG) module which can be accommodated in rings of difference sizes.

[8] Yet another objective of the invention is to provide a thermoelectric generator (TEG) integrated with the wearable ring so as to be flexible and accommodate to the size of the ring of the user to efficiency harvest the energy.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[9] This summary is provided to introduce aspects related to a smart ring for harvesting electrical energy and the aspects are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended for use in determining or limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[10] In an embodiment, the present invention provides a smart ring for harvesting electrical energy, comprising a flexible thermoelectric generator (TEG) coupled to the smart ring, wherein the flexible TEG is configured to harvest energy based on a temperature gradient methodology. A printed circuit board (PCB) operatively connected to the flexible TEG to regulate and transfer generated electrical power, and a battery connected to the PCB is configured to store the generated electrical power.

[11] In an embodiment, the flexible TEG includes bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3), lead telluride (PbTe), or silicon germanium (SiGe) to enhance thermoelectric efficiency. [12] In an embodiment, the flexible TEG is embedded within a flexible substrate, allowing it to conform to a curvature of the smart ring for durability and integration.

[13] In an embodiment, the flexible TEG is C-shaped and adaptable to different ring sizes, ensuring optimal contact with a user’s skin for energy conversion.

[14] In an embodiment, the PCB is designed to fit within compact wearable rings, provides structural flexibility for integration with rings of variable sizes.

[15] In an embodiment, the smart ring further comprises a dual-surface configuration a hot side of the flexible TEG is in direct contact with the user's skin, and a cold side is exposed to ambient air, optimizing the temperature difference for efficient power generation.

[16] In an embodiment, the smart ring further comprises an intelligent power management system connected to the PCB, wherein the intelligent power management system is configured to optimize energy harvesting and regulate power distribution based on user activity and environmental conditions.

[17] In an embodiment, the power management system dynamically adjusts energy harvesting based on real-time temperature variations and the user movement patterns.

[18] In an embodiment, the power management system includes a machine-learning algorithm to predict the user activity patterns and optimize energy harvesting accordingly.

[19] In an embodiment, the PCB includes a microcontroller unit (MCU) configured to monitor and control energy flow between the flexible TEG and the battery.

[20] In an embodiment, a super capacitor bank arranged on the PCB, wherein the super capacitor bank is configured to charge based on a variation in the harvested energy to store the generated electrical power.

[21] In an embodiment, the flexible TEG of different sizes are arranged to occupy within the smart ring of different dimensions.

[22] In an embodiment, a plurality of smaller flexible TEGs are arranged to occupy within the smart ring of different dimensions by connecting the plurality of smaller flexible TEGs in series. [23] In an embodiment, the present invention provides a method for harvesting electrical energy in a smart ring, the method comprises, detecting a temperature differential between a user's skin and ambient surroundings using a flexible thermoelectric generator (TEG) coupled to the smart ring. The method comprises, converting the detected temperature differential into electrical energy via the flexible TEG. The method further comprises, transmitting the generated electrical energy to a printed circuit board (PCB) for power regulation. The method further comprises, storing the regulated electrical energy in an integrated battery for augmenting power supply to the smart ring.

[24] Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrating by way of example the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[25] The accompanying drawings constitute a part of the description and are used to provide further understanding of the present disclosure. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[26] Fig. 1 illustrates a thermoelectric generator (TEG), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[27] Fig. 2 illustrates the thermoelectric generator (TEG) assembly with a printed circuit board (PCB), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[28] Fig. 3 illustrates an exploded view of the thermoelectric generator (TEG), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[29] Fig. 4 illustrates an assembled view of the thermoelectric generator (TEG) indicating a cold side, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[30] Fig. 5 illustrates an assembled view of the thermoelectric generator (TEG) indicating a hot side, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

[31] Fig. 6 illustrates a flow chart for a method for harvesting energy in a smart ring, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [32] The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to represent the only embodiments in which the present disclosure may be practiced. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided merely as an example or illustration of the present disclosure, and should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details.

[33] Exemplary embodiments now will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey its scope to those skilled in the art. The terminology used in the detailed description of the particular exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings is not intended to be limiting. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements.

[34] It is to be noted, however, that the reference numerals used herein illustrate only typical embodiments of the present subject matter, and are therefore, not to be considered for limiting its scope, for the subject matter may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

[35] The specification may refer to “an”, “another”, “one” or “some” embodiment(s) in several locations.

[36] This does not necessarily imply that each such reference is to the same embodiment(s), or that the feature only applies to a single embodiment. Single features of different embodiments may also be combined to provide other embodiments.

[37] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless expressly stated otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes”, “comprises”, “including” and/or “comprising” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected” or “coupled” to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may be present. Furthermore, “connected” or “coupled” as used herein may include operatively connected or coupled. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations and arrangements of one or more of the associated listed items.

[38] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skills in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[39] The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details.

[40] Wearable devices are well known in the art which are predominantly used by users in measuring their physiological parameters in day to day life. One such wearable devices include wearable ring which provides measurement of physiological parameters for monitoring vital parameters. The wearable rings are typically powered either by an in-built battery or the rings have charging point to be charged with external power sources. The wearable rings may be worn by the users for a longer duration and it is necessary to provide a mechanism which can harvest energy on continuous basis. A thermoelectric generator (TEG) typically utilises a temperature difference occurring between a hot (warm) object, i.e. a heat source, and its colder surroundings, i.e. a heat sink, and can be used to transform a consequent heat flow into useful electrical power. There is a need for integrating the TEG to the wearable rings to harvest electrical energy.

[41] Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a thermoelectric generator, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment, a thermoelectric generator (TEG) (100) are solid-state device designed to convert temperature differences into electrical energy through the Seebeck effect. This effect occurs when two different conductive materials are exposed to a temperature gradient, causing a movement of charge carriers (electrons or holes), which generates a voltage difference. This voltage then drives an electrical current, producing useful power. Unlike conventional power generation methods that rely on moving parts or chemical reactions, TEG (100) operate silently, reliably, and with minimal maintenance, making them highly suitable for applications in wearable electronics, remote sensors, and even space exploration.

[42] The efficiency and performance of the TEG (100) depend largely on the materials used for its thermoelectric junctions. Bismuth telluride (Bi2Tes) is the most commonly used material for room-temperature applications, such as wearable devices, because it has a high thermoelectric conversion efficiency under small temperature differences. Lead telluride (PbTe) is preferred for higher-temperature environments, such as industrial waste heat recovery, due to its stability at elevated temperatures. Silicon-germanium (SiGe) is often used in extreme environments, such as space missions, where high-temperature gradients are present. The choice of material depends on the characteristics of the heat source, the cold sink, and the design requirements of the thermoelectric system.

[43] For instance, in a smart ring integrated with a flexible Bi2Tes-based TEG (100), energy harvesting occurs as follows: The hot side of the TEG (100), embedded in the inner surface of the ring, is in direct contact with the user’s skin, typically around 37°C. The cold side, which faces outward, is exposed to ambient air at approximately 22°C. This temperature differential of 15°C is sufficient to generate a small DC voltage, typically in the range of 10-50 millivolts per junction. Since this raw voltage is relatively low, a power management circuit is used to step up the voltage and store the harvested energy in the ring’s internal battery. This continuous energy harvesting process extends the battery life of the smart ring, reducing the need for frequent recharging and enhancing the overall usability of the device.

[44] By integrating advanced thermoelectric materials and optimizing the thermal contact between the ring and the user’s skin, the energy harvesting efficiency can be maximized. Additionally, incorporating intelligent power management algorithms can further improve energy utilization by dynamically adjusting harvesting parameters based on external conditions, such as ambient temperature fluctuations or user activity levels. This approach ensures that wearable devices powered by TEG (100) remain functional for extended periods, providing a sustainable and maintenance-free power solution for the next generation of smart wearables.

[45] Fig. 2 illustrates the TEG (100) module assembly with a printed circuit board (PCB), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment, a printed circuit board (PCB) (200) connects the TEG (100) and the battery (202) in the smart ring. The PCB (200) is configured to regulate the low-voltage energy harvested by the TEG (100), converting it into usable power, and ensuring efficient storage in the battery (202). Given the compact nature of the smart ring, the PCB (200) is designed to be miniaturized, flexible, and powerefficient, integrating various circuit components while maintaining a small form factor. The use of high-density interconnects (HDI), flexible substrates like polyimide or FR4, and optimized power routing ensures that the PCB (200) can withstand the mechanical stress associated with daily wear.

[46] The electrical connection between the TEG (100) and the PCB (200) is established through low-resistance conductive pathways, such as gold-plated contact pads or wire bonding, to minimize power loss. Since the raw voltage generated by the TEG (100) is relatively low typically in the range of 10-50 millivolts per junction a boost converter circuit is incorporated into the PCB (200) to step up the voltage to a usable level, such as 3.3V or 5V, depending on the battery (202) and device requirements. The boost converter consists of key components including inductors, capacitors, and a switching regulator, which work together to amplify the low voltage while maintaining energy efficiency. Additionally, a rectifier circuit is integrated to convert the AC-like voltage fluctuations from the TEG (100) into a stable DC output, which is then directed towards a supercapacitor (204) which may charges the battery (202).

[47] According to an embodiment, the PCB (200) includes an intelligent power management system that adjusts energy harvesting based on real-time temperature differentials, battery (202) charge levels, and user activity patterns. The PCB (200) may include a microcontroller unit (MCU) embedded in the PCB (200) continuously monitors the thermal gradient across the TEG (100), the energy conversion rate, and battery (202) status, optimizing power flow accordingly. For instance, if the ambient temperature drops significantly, reducing the temperature differential between the skin and the surrounding air, the power management system may prioritize energy conservation to prevent excessive drain on the battery (202).

[48] In an embodiment, the super capacitor (204) is operatively coupled to the TEG (100) module and the PCB (200). The super capacitor (204) is a high-speed energy buffer to manage low, intermittent power output generated by the TEG (100) and to deliver rapid bursts of power to the battery (202). The super capacitor (204) is arranged on the PCB (200), forming part of the intelligent power management system. The super capacitor (204) is electrically connected to the output of the TEG (100) via the power regulation circuitry, which includes a boost converter and voltage stabilizer. The super capacitor (204) bank is configured to get charge based on a variation in the harvested energy. During operation, the super capacitor (204) stores the electrical power generated by the TEG (100) when the temperature differential between the user’s skin and the ambient environment is adequate. This stored energy is held temporarily in the super capacitor (204) and is transferred to the battery (202) in a controlled manner.

[49] In an embodiment, when the TEG (100) output fluctuates due to changing environmental conditions or the user activity, the super capacitor (204) acts as a voltage stabilizer, mitigating spikes and drops in power supply and ensuring stable operation of the smart ring. In one example, the super capacitor (204) may have a capacitance value in the range of 0.1 to 1 Farad and a voltage rating between 2.7V and 5.5V, depending on the specific design requirements. Furthermore, the inclusion of the super capacitor (204) reduces strain on the rechargeable battery by absorbing high-frequency charge/discharge cycles, thereby extending the battery’s operational life. This hybrid energy storage configuration enhances the reliability, responsiveness, and sustainability of the energy harvesting system within the smart ring.

[50] The battery (202) integration within the PCB (200) is designed to ensure energy storage and distribution. In an exemplary embodiment, a small rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) or lithium-polymer (Li-Po) battery (202) is typically used due to its high energy density and long cycle life. The PCB (200) incorporates battery (202) protection circuits, including overcharge, over-discharge, and short-circuit protection, to enhance battery (202) longevity and user safety. Further, the PCB (200) includes the supercapacitor (204) bank configured to accommodate the fluctuations in the voltage produced by the TEG (100) module.

[51] Given that smart ring is often exposed to various environmental conditions, the PCB (200) is designed to be waterproof and dust-resistant through the use of conformal coatings and sealed encapsulation. This protects the circuit components from moisture, sweat, and accidental spills, ensuring long-term durability. Furthermore, wireless communication modules, such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), can be integrated into the PCB (200), enabling the smart ring to transmit battery (202) status, energy harvesting performance, and user data to a companion mobile application.

[52] Fig. 3 illustrates an exploded view of the TEG (100) module with a smart ring, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The smart ring (300) equipped with the TEG (100), designed to efficiently harvest energy from temperature differentials and augment the battery (202) capacity of the smart ring (300). The smart ring (300) integrates the flexible TEG (100) that conforms to various ring (300) sizes, ensuring optimal thermal contact with the user’s skin and enhancing energy conversion efficiency regardless of the wearer’s finger circumference. The TEG (100) module may be of different sizes are arranged to occupy within the smart ring of different dimensions. In an embodiment, a plurality smaller TEG module may be arranged to occupy within the smart ring of different dimensions by connecting the plurality of smaller flexible TEGs in series.

[53] The TEG (100) may be designed to be flexible and modular, allowing for custom integration within smart rings that vary in diameter, width, and thickness based on the user’s finger size. In another embodiment, for smaller or uniquely shaped rings where a single, large TEG module may not be feasible or efficient, the plurality of smaller flexible TEG may be used. The plurality of smaller flexible TEG are strategically arranged to fill available internal space of the smart ring. Each of the smaller TEGs may be configured with dimensions optimized for local curvature and thermal contact within the smart ring.

[54] For instance, when the user wears the smart ring (300), the inner surface maintains a temperature of approximately 37°C, corresponding to the typical human body temperature, while the outer surface is exposed to an ambient temperature of approximately 22°C indoors or lower in outdoor conditions. This temperature differential results in the flow of charge carriers within the thermoelectric material, thereby generating electrical energy. The higher the temperature difference, the greater the energy output from the TEG (100).

[55] In an exemplary embodiment, the smart ring (300) includes the TEG (100) positioned along the inner surface of the ring (300), making direct contact with the user's skin. The outer surface of the ring (300) remains exposed to ambient air, thereby creating a temperature differential between the user's body heat and the external environment. The TEG (100) utilizes the Seebeck effect to convert this temperature gradient into an electrical potential, generating a continuous DC power source.

[56] The flexible thermoelectric generator is composed of advanced thermoelectric materials such as bismuth telluride (Bi2Tes), lead telluride (PbTe), or silicon-germanium (SiGe), which are known for their high thermoelectric efficiency and stability in wearable applications. The TEG (100) is embedded within a flexible substrate, allowing it to maintain continuous contact with the user's skin, thereby optimizing heat absorption and energy conversion. The electrical energy generated by the TEG (100) is transferred to the power management circuit housed within the ring’s (300) the PCB (200) for voltage regulation and battery (202) augmentation.

[57] In an embodiment, the smart ring (300) incorporates an intelligent power management system that dynamically adjusts energy harvesting and battery (202) augmentation based on real-time temperature variations, user activity levels, and environmental conditions. The microcontroller unit (MCU) embedded within the PCB (200) continuously monitors the temperature gradient across the TEG (100), the energy conversion rate, and battery (202) charge levels to optimize power flow.

[58] For instance, if the user engages in physical activity, their body temperature increases, thereby creating a larger temperature differential between the inner and outer surfaces of the ring (300). In another exemplary scenario, when the user moves from a warm room to a cold environment, such as a snow-covered environment, creating a larger temperature differential between the inner surface and outer surface of the ring (300). The power management system detects this increase and prioritizes energy harvesting, directing more power toward battery (202) augmentation. Conversely, if the external temperature rises, reducing the thermal gradient, the system adjusts energy distribution to optimize efficiency and minimize power losses.

[59] The power management module also ensures that the harvested energy is efficiently stored in the internal rechargeable lithium-ion or lithium-polymer battery (202). Furthermore, the power management system may include machine learning algorithms that analyze historical temperature variations and predict user activity patterns, allowing for proactive adjustments to the energy harvesting process. This feature enhances the overall battery (202) lifespan and ensures that the smart ring (300) remains powered for extended durations without the need for frequent external charging.

[60] By integrating the flexible TEG (100), advanced thermoelectric materials, and an intelligent power management system, the present invention provides a highly efficient, self- sustaining energy harvesting solution for wearable electronics. The compact and unobtrusive form factor of the smart ring (300) ensures seamless energy generation, thereby enhancing user convenience and reducing dependency on external power sources.

[61] Fig. 4 illustrates an assembled view of the TEG (100) module indicating a cold side (400), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5 illustrates an assembled view of the TEG (100) module indicating a hot side (500), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment, FIG. 4 is explained in conjunction with FIG. 5. The TEG (100) is embedded along the inner surface of the smart ring (300), ensuring direct contact with the user’s finger. This inner surface functions as the hot side (500) of the thermoelectric generator, absorbing body heat (typically around 37°C). Meanwhile, the outer surface of the ring (300) is exposed to ambient air, which generally remains cooler (e.g., 22°C indoors or lower in outdoor conditions). This temperature difference creates the thermal gradient, enabling the TEG (100) to generate electrical energy through the Seebeck effect. The flexible nature of the TEG (100) ensures continuous and optimal skin contact, which maximizes energy harvesting efficiency.

[62] The integration of a flexible TEG (100), intelligent power management, and an optimized PCB (200) layout results in a highly efficient energy-harvesting wearable that continuously generates and stores power without external charging. The combination of thermoelectric materials, advanced circuit design, and dynamic energy management ensures that the smart ring (300) remains operational for extended periods, offering (300) users enhanced convenience, sustainability, and functionality in a compact and unobtrusive form factor.

[63] Fig. 6 illustrates a flow chart for a method for harvesting energy in a smart ring, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The method (600) is implemented in the smart ring (300) of FIG. 3. Further, steps of the method (600) are explained in detail through FIGs 1 to 5, therefore for the sake of brevity, the detailed explanation has been omitted here.

[64] In an embodiment, the method (600), at step (602) includes detecting a temperature differential between a user's skin and ambient surroundings using a flexible thermoelectric generator (TEG) coupled to the smart ring. The TEG integrated into the smart ring continuously detects the temperature differential between the user's skin and ambient surroundings. The inner surface of the ring is in direct contact with the skin, absorbs body heat (~37°C), while the outer surface, exposed to the air, remains cooler (~22°C).

[65] According to an embodiment, the method (600), at step (604) includes converting the detected temperature differential into electrical energy via the flexible TEG. The temperature difference creates a thermal gradient, enabling the Seebeck effect, where charge carriers in the thermoelectric material generate a voltage. [66] According to an embodiment, the method (600), at step (606) includes transmitting via the TEG the generated electrical energy to a printed circuit board (PCB) for power regulation. In an embodiment, the electrical energy generated by the TEG is transmitted to the PCB through low-resistance conductive pathways, such as gold-plated contact pads, micro-vias, or flexible ribbon connectors.

[67] According to an embodiment, the method (600), at step (608) includes storing via the PCB the regulated electrical energy in an integrated battery for augmenting power supply to the smart ring. In an embodiment, the smart ring adjusts energy harvesting parameters using an intelligent power management system based on real-time temperature variations and user activity. The smart ring analyzes user activity patterns through a machine-learning algorithm to predict energy harvesting efficiency. The intelligent power management system prioritizes energy distribution based on predefined usage requirements of the smart ring.

[68] The disclosed invention introduces significant advancements in wearable energy harvesting technology by integrating a flexible thermoelectric generator (TEG) with a printed circuit board (PCB) and intelligent power management system. Unlike conventional wearables that rely solely on battery power, this smart ring continuously converts body heat into electrical energy using the Seebeck effect, reducing the need for frequent charging. The flexible TEG module ensures optimal skin contact, maximizing heat absorption and energy conversion efficiency. The PCB ensures efficient power regulation and extended device functionality.

[69] Aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented as computer program products that comprise articles of manufacture. Such computer program products may include one or more software components which are implementable by a processor or group of processors and said software components may include, for example, applications, software objects, methods, data structure, and/or the like. In some embodiments, a software component may be stored on one or more non-transitory computer-readable media, which computer program product may comprise the computer-readable media with software component, comprising computer executable instructions, included thereon.

[70] The figures of the disclosure are provided to illustrate some examples of the disclosure described. The figures are not to limit the scope of the depicted embodiments or the appended claims. Aspects of the disclosure are described herein with reference to the disclosure to example embodiments for illustration. It should be understood that specific details, relationships, and method are set forth to provide a full understanding of the example embodiments. One of ordinary skill in the art recognize the example embodiments can be practiced without one or more specific details and/or with other methods.

[71] Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the embodiments described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[72] It is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation, unless described otherwise.

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A smart ring for harvesting electrical energy, comprises: a flexible thermoelectric generator (TEG) coupled to the smart ring, wherein the flexible TEG is configured to harvest energy from a temperature gradient; a printed circuit board (PCB) operatively connected to the flexible TEG to regulate and transfer generated electrical power; and a battery connected to the PCB is configured to store the generated electrical power.

2. The smart ring of claim 1, wherein the flexible TEG includes bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3), lead telluride (PbTe), or silicon germanium (SiGe) to enhance thermoelectric efficiency.

3. The smart ring of claim 1, wherein the flexible TEG is embedded within a flexible substrate, allowing it to conform to a curvature of the smart ring for durability and integration.

4. The smart ring of claim 3, wherein the flexible TEG is C-shaped and adaptable to different ring sizes, ensuring optimal contact with a user’s skin for energy conversion.

5. The smart ring of claim 1, wherein the PCB is designed to fit within compact wearable rings, provides structural flexibility for integration with rings of variable sizes.

6. The smart ring of claim 1, further comprising a dual-surface configuration, wherein: a hot side of the flexible TEG is in direct contact with the user's skin; and a cold side is exposed to ambient air, optimizing the temperature difference for efficient power generation.

7. The smart ring of claim 1, further comprises an intelligent power management system connected to the PCB, wherein the intelligent power management system is configured to optimize energy harvesting and regulate power distribution based on user activity and environmental conditions.

8. The smart ring of claim 7, wherein the power management system dynamically adjusts energy harvesting based on real-time temperature variations and the user movement patterns.

9. The smart ring of claim 7, wherein the power management system includes a machinelearning algorithm to predict the user activity patterns and optimize energy harvesting accordingly.

10. The smart ring of claim 1, wherein the PCB includes a microcontroller unit (MCU) configured to monitor and control energy flow between the flexible TEG and the battery.

11. The smart ring of claim 1, further include a super capacitor bank arranged on the PCB, wherein the super capacitor bank is configured to charge based on a variation in the harvested energy to store the generated electrical power.

12. The smart ring of claim 1, wherein the flexible TEG of different sizes are arranged to occupy within the smart ring of different dimensions.

13. The smart ring of claim 1, wherein a plurality of smaller flexible TEGs are arranged to occupy within the smart ring of different dimensions by connecting the plurality of smaller flexible TEGs in series.

14. A method for harvesting energy in a smart ring, the method comprising: detecting a temperature differential between a user's skin and ambient surroundings using a flexible thermoelectric generator (TEG) coupled to the smart ring; converting the detected temperature differential into electrical energy via the flexible TEG; transmitting the generated electrical energy to a printed circuit board (PCB) for power regulation; and storing the regulated electrical energy in an integrated battery for augmenting power supply to the smart ring.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising: adjusting energy harvesting parameters using an intelligent power management system based on real-time temperature variations and user activity.

16. The method of claim 14, further comprising optimizing thermal contact between the flexible TEG and the user’s skin to maximize energy conversion efficiency.

17. The method of claim 14, further comprising detecting changes in ambient temperature and adjusting energy harvesting parameters accordingly.

18. The method of claim 15, further comprising analyzing user activity patterns through a machine-learning algorithm to predict energy harvesting efficiency.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein the intelligent power management system prioritizes energy distribution based on predefined usage requirements of the smart ring.

20. The method of claim 14, further comprising utilizing a dual-surface configuration, wherein: the hot side of the flexible TEG module remains in contact with the user's skin; and the cold side is exposed to ambient air to maintain the temperature differential required for energy generation.

21. The method of claim 14, wherein a super capacitor bank arranged on the PCB, wherein the super capacitor bank is configured to charge based on a variation in the harvested energy to store the generated electrical power.

22. The method of claim 14, wherein the flexible TEG of different sizes are arranged to occupy within the smart ring of different dimensions.

23. The method of claim 14, wherein a plurality of smaller flexible TEGs are arranged to occupy within the smart ring of different dimensions by connecting the plurality of smaller flexible TEGs in series.