A SYSTEM FOR POWER GENERATION FROM FOOT STEPS

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Title: A system for power generation from foot steps Foot step power.generation using piezoelectric sensors is a pioneering technology that harnesses the kinetic energy generated by human footsteps and converts it into electrical energy, providing a sustainable, renewable, and eco-friendly source of power. This technology has the potential to reduce energy consumption and . greenhouse gas emissions, and offers a reliable and efficient solution for powering devices and systems, while also promoting energy independence and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. By leveraging the piezoelectric effect, this technology can generate electricity from foot traffic, providing a new source of renewable energy that can be used to power a wide range of applications.

Specification

TITLE: A system for power generation from foot steps
5 FIELD OF THE INVENTION
10
The present invention relates to power generation. More particularly, it pertains to
the technology of harnessing kinetic energy from human footsteps into electrical
energy. Also, the present invention aims to develop and optimize footstep energyharvesting
technologies, addressing technical, scalability and practical challenges.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The increasing global demand for energy, combined with the need to reduce
carbon emissions and mitigate climate change, has driven innovation in renewable
energy sources. Footstep power generation emerges as a novel solution,
15 leveraging the kinetic energy generated by human footsteps to produce electricity.
This project builds upon existing research in piezoelectric materials, energy
harvesting, and sustainable infrastructure.
In a .prior art patent number US20150162803Al titled "Foot-powered energy
20 generator" discloses a foot-powered energy generation device includes a step plate
that moves between an upper position and a lower position in response to the step
action of a user. The device also includes an electrical generator, and a gear train
that will cause a rotor of the generator to rotate in response to movement of the
step plate up and down. A carriage is mechanically interconnected to the step
25 plate and the gear train to cause the rotation of the gear train in response to the
step plate motion.
In another prior art patent number CN207830045U titled "Foot steps on power
generator" discloses a kind of feet to step on power generator, include bottom
plate and pedal, pedal is located above bottom plate, one end of pedal is hingedly
30 fixed on bottom plate, the spring for promoting the pedal other end to be upturned
is additionally provided between pedal and bottom plate, the side plate upwardly
extended is provided on the bottom plate, and the side plate is corresponded to
positioned at the outside of the pedal other end, it is installed with generator and
gear-box on the side plate, gear of output end links with generator in gear-box
shaft is connected in gear-box on input end gear, two groups of linking arms are
provided· between the shaft and the pedal other end, power generator is stepped on
using foot provided by the utility model, it not only operates more easily
laborsaving, and power generation stabilization.
40 In another pnor art titled "High Study on footstep power generation usmg
piezoelectric tile" authored by Anis Maisarah Mohd Asry et al., discloses an
alternative way to generate electricity by using a population of human had been
discovered When walking, the vibration that generates between the surface and
the footstep is wasted. By utilizing this wasted energy, the electrical energy can be
45 generated and fulfill the demand. The transducer that use to detect the vibration is
a piezoelectric transducer. This transducer converts the mechanical energy into
electrical energy. When the pressure from the footstep is applied to the
piezoelectric transducer, it will convert the pressure or the force into the electrical
energy. The piezoelectric transducer is connected in series-parallel coonection.
50 Then, it is placed on the tile that been made from wood as a model for footstep tile
to give pressure to the piezoelectric transducers. This tile can be placed in the
crowded area, walking pavement or exercise instruments. The electric energy that
generates from this piezoelectric tile can be power up low power appliances.
55 In another pnor art titled "Footstep Power Generation usmg Piezoelectric
Material" authored by Vinodpuri Goswan1i et al., discloses harvesting energy with
the help of piezoelectric material. we use piezoelectric materials in order to
harvest energy from people walking and generating vibration in piezoelectric so
that energy can be generated. This system can be installed at homes, schools,
60 colleges, where population density is more. When people walk on the steps,
power is generated by using the weight of the person. It can produce energy from
vibration and pressure Like people walking (footstep pressure). It can be used to
charge devices such as mobile phones, laptops, etc.
65 The present invention has overcome the drawbacks in the prior art where the
present invention involves in the convergence of technology, sustainability, and
urban planning, with the potential to contribute to a more energy-efficient and
environmentally friendly future.
70 OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION
75
I. It is an object of the present invention to obtain a system to develop and
optimize footstep energy-harvesting technologies, addressing technical,
scalability and practical challenges.
2. It is another object of the present invention to obtain a system promote
sustainable practices and contribute to a decentralized energy landscape,
ultimately mitigating climate change and energy scarcity.
3. It is another object of the present invention to design and develop a foot
step power generation system using piezo electric sensors that is efficient,
cost-effective, and. reliable.
80 4. It is another object of the present invention to evaluate the performance of
the system in terms of energy conversion efficiency, power output, and
durability
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
85 The present invention relates to a system for power generation from foot steps.
It is another aspect of the present invention to obtain a footstep-energy harvesting
system, comprising an energy harvesting units plurality for converting kinetic
energy from steps into electrical energy, energy storage components adapted ·to
store the electricity produced and a control unit adapted to control and distribute
90 the energy.
It is another aspect of the present invention to obtain the units convert electrical
energy through the piezoelectric property owing to stress due to foot-steps .
It is another aspect of the present invention to obtain user interface which displays
real time data of energy generation to help increase user interest.
95 It is another aspect of the present invention to obtain the system with the energy
storage component could be any rechargeable battery or super-capacitor so that
energy generated electrically is properly stored with high efficiency.
It is another aspect of the present invention to obtain the system has control unit
that monitors and optimizes the flow of distributed energy based.on real-time foot
100 traffic information.
It is another aspect of the present invention to obtain the system with the energy
harvesting units are incorporated in flooring materials, which would not be
conspicuous with the existing infrastructure.
It is another aspect of the present invention to obtain the system with the design of
105 the energy harvesting units is scalable, and can be easily deployed in public
transport stations, sidewalks, or recreational areas.
It is another aspect of the present invention to obtain the system with the control
unit has data analytics features to provide insights on foot traffic patterns and
energy generation efficiency.
110 It is another aspect of the present invention to obtain the system with the produced
power is utilized to feed local appliances, such as lighting, signage, or electronic
information boards.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:
l
115 For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference IS now
120
made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawing, in which:
Figure I illustrates the block diagram of the present invention explaining the
connections of harnessing electricity from foot-steps.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION:
DATA ANALYSIS TECHNIQUES :
Quantitative Data Analysis:
• Descriptive statistics (mean, median, mode, standard deviation) to
125 summarize data
• Inferential statistics (t-tests, AN OVA, regression) to test hypotheses and
relationships
• Data visualization (charts, graphs, plots) to illustrate findings
Qualitative Data Analysis:
• Content analysis to identity themes and patterns in text data
• Coding and categorization to label and group data
• Thematic analysis to identify and interpret themes
Data Analysis Tools:
135 • Statistical software (SPSS, R, Python) for quantitative analysis
• Qualitative analysis software (NVivo, Atlas.ti, MaxQDA) for coding and
theme identification
• Data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI, D3.js) for creating interactive
visualizations
140 • Spreadsheet software (Excel, Google Sheets) for data organization and
calculation
TOOLS USED:
Software Tools:
• Programming languages (C++, Python, Java)
145 • IDEs (Integrated Development Environments) like Arduino IDE, Eclipse
• Simulation software (SPICE, Simulink) for circuit design and testing
• CAD software (Computer-Aided Design) for mechanical design
• 3D printing software for prototyping
150 Hardware Tools:
• Arduino boards (microcontrollers)
• Sensors (piezoelectric, pressure, vibration)
• Power harvesting modules (voltage regulators, converters)
• Energy storage devices (batteries, supercapacitors)
155 • Power management ICs (PMICs)
• PCB design software (Eagle, KiCad)
Arduino Uno
• Read sensor data from piezoelectric sensors
• Process data and convert footsteps into electrical energy
160 • Control output to charge batteries or power devices
• Monitor and optimize energy harvesting
It's connected to:
• Piezoelectric sensors under footsteps
• Energy harvesting modules
• Batteries or supercapacitors
• Output devices (LEDs, motors, etc.)
Arduino Uno's microcontroller processes sensor data, generating electricity from
footsteps. It's a compact, efficient, and cost-effective solution for harnessing
kinetic energy and powering small devices or charging batteries.
170 A piezoelectric sensor for fo·otstep power generation is specifically designed to:
• Capture the mechanical stress from footsteps
• Convert it into electrical energy
• Withstand repeated stress and vibrations
• Operate in a wide range of environments
175
Key characteristics:
• High sensitivity to pressure and vibration
• Low power consumption
• Small size and lightweight
180 • Durable and reliable
185
190
195
• Ability to withstand repeated stress and vibrations
Types of piezoelectric sensors used for footstep power generation:
• Piezoelectric disks (e.g., PZT, PVDF)
• Piezoelectric cables (e.g., piezoelectric fibers)
• Piezoelectric patches (e.g., flexible piezoelectric sheets)
When selecting a piezoelectric sensor for footstep power generation. consider:
• Sensitivity and output voltage
• Power consumption and energy harvesting capabilities
• Durability and reliability
• Size and weight constraints
• Environmental factors (temperature, humidity, etc.)
12 V RECHARGABLE BATTERY :
The 1 2V rechargeable battery, specifically the 19380 battery, is a type of
lead-acid battery designed for deep cycle applications. Here are some key
characteristics:
• Nominal Voltage: 12V
• Capacity: 38Ah (Ampere-hours)
• Type: Lead-Acid, Deep Cycle
• Dimensions: Approximately 7.7 x 5.1 x 6.5 inches (195 x 130 x 165 mm)
• Weight: Around 23-25 pounds (10.4-11.3 kg)
• Terminals: Threaded post terminals
• Rechargeable: Yes, can be recharged up to 500-800 cycles
• Applications: Suitable for footstep power generation, renewable energy
systems, backup power, and other deep cycle applications.
A voltage booster module:
• Increases output voltage from a lower input voltage
• Boosts voltage to a higher level (5V, 12V, 24V)
Used in:
• Solar panels and renewable energy
Footstep power generation
Io T devices and sensors
Types of voltage booster modules:
• DC-DC boost converters
• Switching regulators
• Transformer-based boosters
Key specifications:
• Input voltage range
• Output voltage and current
• Efficiency and power loss
Presentation and Analysis of Collected Data
• Detailed analysis of survey responses and interview transcripts
• Identification of key themes and trends in the data
• Comparison of results to baseline data and project targets
• Calculation of metrics and indicators to measure project success
Discussion of Findings Related to Project Objectives
• Empowerment of rural women through sustainable agriculture and
230 footstep power generation
• Improvement in livelihoods of rural women, including mcome, food
security, and environmental sustainability
• Alignment with project objectives and expected outcomes
• Identification of areas for improvement and potential scalability
Interpretation of Results in the Context of Socially Relevant Engineering
Projects
• Demonstration of the potential of socially relevant engineering projects to
drive positive change in rural communities
• Addressing critical issues of food security, environmental sustainability,
and climate change
• Emphasis on women's empowerment and community-led development for
equitable and sustainable benefits
• Replicable model for other rural communities, promoting widespread
impact and sustainability
• Highlighting the importance of socially relevant engineering projects m
driving positive change and promoting sustainable. development
• Contribution to the field of sustainable development and socially relevant
engineering
Recommendations for Future Projects
• Scaling up the project to reach more communities
• Integrating new technologies and innovations
• Strengthening partnerships and collaborations
• Expanding to new regions and contexts
• Continuously monitoring and evaluating project impact.
Key Findings:
• Footstep power generation is a viable source of renewable energy: The
project demonstrated that footstep power generation can be a reliable and
260 sustainable source of energy for rural communities.
• Improved access to energy: The project improved access to energy for
rural communities, powering essential services such as lights, computers,
and healthcare equipment.
• Reduced reliance on fossil fuels: The project reduced reliance on fossil
265 fuels, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.
• Empowerment of rural communities: The project empowered rural
communities to generate their own energy,
independence and self-sufficiency.
. .
1mprovmg energy
• Improved energy efficiency: The project improved energy efficiency,
reducing energy costs for rural communities.
Implications:
• Scalability: The project's success implies that footstep power generation
can be scaled up to power larger communities and even urban areas.
• Replicability: The project's findings can be replicated in other rural
communities, improving access to energy and reducing reliance on fossil
fuels.
• Policy implications: The project's success implies that policymakers
should consider footstep power generation as a viable source of renewable
energy.
• Community development: The project's findings imply that footstep
power generation can be a tool for community development, improving
access to energy and essential services.
• Environmental sustainability: The project's success implies that footstep
power generation can contribute to environmental sustainability, reducing
greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.
Evaluation of the project's success in achieving its objectives:
The project was highly successful m achieving its objectives,
demonstrating the potential of footstep power generation as a viable source
of renewable energy.
290 • The project improved access to energy, reduced reliance on fossil fuels,
empowered rural communities, and improved energy efficiency.
• The project's success has implications for scalability, replicability, policy,
community development, and environmental sustainability.
295 Challenges and Areas for Improvement:
• Technical challenges: The project faced technical challenges, including
maintenance and repair of equipment.
• Community engagement: The project could have benefited from
increased community engagement and participation.
300 • Scalability: The project's scalability could be improved through the use of
more efficient equipment and better energy storage solutions.

Claims
We Claim:
305 I. A footstep-energy harvesting system (100), comprising:
a. an energy harvesting units plurality for converting kinetic energy from
steps into electrical energy;
b. energy storage components adapted to store the electricity produced; and
c. a control unit adapted to control and distribute the energy.
310 2. The system as claimed in claim I, wherein the units convert electrical energy
through the piezoelectric property owing to stress due to foot-steps.
3. The system as claimed in claim I, further includes user interface which displays
real time data of energy generation to help increase user interest.
4. The system as claimed in claim I, wherein the energy storage component could
315 be any rechargeable battery or super-capacitor so that energy generated
- electrically is properly stored with high efficiency.

5. The system as claimed in claim I, wherein the system has control unit that
Cll monitors and optimizes the flow of distributed energy based on real-time foot
traffic information.
320 6. The system as claimed m claim I wherein the energy harvesting units are
incorporated in flooring materials, which would not be conspicuous with the
existing infrastructure.
7. The system as claimed in claim I wherein the system includes a communication
module through which the energy generation system can be monitored and
325 managed remotely.
8. The system as claimed in claim I, wherein the design of the energy harvesting
units is scalable, and can be easily deployed in public transport stations,
sidewalks, or recreational areas
9. The system as claimed in claim I, wherein the control unit has data analytics
330 features to provide insights on foot traffic patterns and energy generation
efficiency.
The system as claimed in claim I, wherein the produced power is utilized to
feed local appliances, such as lighting, signage, or electronic information boards.

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