Abstract: In one aspect, thermoelectric generators are described herein. A thermoelectric generator, in some embodiments, comprises a multilayer ribbon including an electrically insulating flexible substrate comprising a first side having a p-type material deposited thereon and a second side having an n-type material deposited thereon, wherein the p-type material and the n-type material are electrical communication. In another aspect, electronic systems for incorporation into apparel articles are described herein, which employ one or more energy harvesting mechanisms for powering various electronic functionalities. In some embodiments, for example, systems for monitoring apparel wear and/or use are provided. A system for monitoring apparel wear or use can comprise an energy harvesting component and a signaling component partially or fully powered by electrical energy generated by the energy harvesting component from wear or use of the apparel.

Abstract: The automobile entry detector for garages is a signaling system designed to assist a motorist with properly positioning a vehicle upon pulling into a parking structure, such as a household garage. This device could be offered in various embodiments, including as an aftermarket accessory for existing garage door openers or as an integral part of a new garage door opener design. The preferred embodiment of the device includes a garage door opener motor and controller, a garage door opener control switch, a light transmitter that transmits a beam of light to a light receptor with an LED indicator, a photocell, and an indicator lamp located on the rear wall of the garage. The LED indicator is extinguished when the beam of light is unbroken, and the photocell relays this information to activate the lamp at the same time as the LED.