Electricity Generation Using Spring-Powered Floor Pad

Abstract

Walking is the most common activity in our daily life. When we walk, we lose energy to the floor surface. Vibration is one form of energy that is transferred from our weight on to the floor surface during every step. This energy can be harvested and converted into electrical energy. This research addressed the design and construction of a power generating floor pad which can be used to harvest electricity from human footsteps. The electric generating floor pad features springs mounted on its four corners. When somebody walks though the surface of the floor pad, the springs will be compressed because of the weight of the person causing it to dip down slightly. The shaft of the permanent magnet generator will rotate then rotate, thus voltage is generated. The generator can be connected to a battery so as to store electrical energy. Test performed on the device indicates that it is capable of converting human footsteps to a useful electrical energy to power small electrical devices. The magnitude of the generated voltage can be maximized by applying more force on the floor pad. The discharging time of the battery is longer when there are more footsteps applied to the floor pad. The device can be conveniently installed in the doorways of buildings or other heavy traffic areas. Through this research project, a new option for harnessing green electricity by footsteps is made available focusing on the use of springs and permanent magnet generators.