There are a plethora of different flashlights and lanterns out there with various methods of power. More often than not, you have to rely on an outside source such as a batteries, being charged through an outlet, or solar power. All are fine options, but what if you could power your flashlight through your own body heat?

Google Science Fair got Ann Makosinski, a 15 year old, excited about showing off a hand-powered flashlight which she dubbed “The Hollow”. Obviously she made it to the finals because let’s face it, a very few amount of us were worrying about alternative energy at that age. Wouldn’t it be nice not having to worry about your flashlight giving out on you? The design of this light source is very simple, and costs only about $26 to make. If these were made in mass quantities, you bet it would be far cheaper. She explains what issues she came across during her development of this project, and how everything works in the video below. You have to wonder what she’s going to come up with in the years to follow. With any luck we’ll start seeing these crop up on the market in the next few years.

via [CBC]