KASOONE ASHIRAF

2022/A/KME/0963/G/F
MEC3206: RESEARCH METHODS
PROJECT PROPOSAL
ABSTRACT

As the demand of energy is increasing day by day, so the ultimate solution to deal with these
sorts of problems is just to implement the renewable sources of energy Humans are using the
renewable energy which are solar, wind etc. but we still could not satisfy our power needs,
because of that we have to generate electricity through each and every possible ways. The
objective of this work is to produce power through footsteps as a source of renewable energy that
we can obtained while walking or standing on to the certain arrangements like footpaths, stairs,
plate forms and these systems can be install specially in the more populated areas. In this project
the force energy is produced by human foot step and force energy is converted into mechanical
energy by the rack and pinion mechanism. Electricity is produced by DC generator. We are
supposed to study existing methods of foot step power generation that are rack and pinion
arrangement and piezoelectric crystals and supposed to modify the existing system. Keywords:
Footpaths, Stairs, Plate forms, and Footstep power generation system

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

The usefulness of highest technology devices such as cell phones, computers, and sensors is
limited by the storage capacity of batteries. In the future, these limitations will become more
pronounced as the demand for wireless power outpaces battery development which is already
nearly optimized [3]. Thus, new power generation techniques are required for the next generation
of wearable computers, wireless sensors, and autonomous systems to be feasible. Piezoelectric
materials are excellent power generation devices because of their ability to couple mechanical
and electrical properties. Consequently, when a piezoelectric is strained it produces an electric
field; therefore, piezoelectric materials can convert ambient vibration into electrical power.
Piezoelectric materials have long been used as sensors and actuators; however, their use as
electrical generators is less established. A piezoelectric power generator has great potential for
some remote applications such as in vivo sensors, embedded MEMS devices, and distributed
networking. Developing piezoelectric generators is challenging because of their poor source
characteristics (high voltage, low current, high impedance) and relatively low power output. In
this project the first step was to generate electrical power as non- conventional method by simply
walking or running on the foot step. Non- conventional energy system using foot step is very
essential because it convert mechanical energy into the electrical energy. As much as possible, I
tried to avoid using dynamos which produce more electricity but the idea is to use one of human
generated power source to generate an electrical signal or voltage, don’t forget mentioning the
dynamos will create a lot of noise. Thus during looking for information and browsing the
scientific research papers and online scientific paper I found that I can use a piezoelectricity.
This is just a thesis science experiment that will show you the concept of producing electricity
using piezoelectric element. Electricity to power mobile technologies must be available at all
times and the source of that must come on the individual scale to allow for freedom from being
corded to an outlet. The solution lies in using piezoelectric materials to generate electricity
through harvesting the energy expended through walking [1]. Based on information gathered
through researching previous work in the field of regenerative electricity it can be determined
that electricity conversion through the usage of piezoelectric materials seems to be the most
practical for implementation on a large scale. The goals for the project include constructing a
system which can harvest energy that is expended through walking in order to power low
consumption mobile electronics. By replacing the conventional soles of a shoe with PZT material
1 it is then possible to convert the mechanical energy in the form of heal strikes into electrical
energy that can be stored through a linear low power collection unit. This power can then be used
to provide electricity for devices that would otherwise rely on other primary and secondary
batteries.

1.2 Problem Statement

Electricity is one of the daily requirements of life. It is required to increase as much as sources of
renewable energy. This system can be used for utilization of waste energy of foot step to provide
electricity during the cut-off of electricity in some places like gym or any crowded places. For
example, there is cut-off of electricity because of that , gym members are not able to measure
their weight on weighting scale and in the night , visibility is disappear due to cut-off of
electricity. This system can be used with different techniques like use with weighting scale etc.

1.3. Research Questions.

 How to generate the electricity through the human foot

 . How to provide electricity in rural area
 . How to promote the non-conventional energy source
 . How to save conventional energy sources
 . How to store the electricity for further use
 How to produce electricity at cheapest cost

1.4: Research Objectives

 To Design and Implementation of AC/DC Power Harvesting using Human Foot Step
 To generate the electricity through the human foot
 To provide electricity in rural area
 To promote the non-conventional energy source
 To save conventional energy sources
 To store the electricity for further use
 To produce electricity at cheapest cost

1.5. Scope of study

This project focuses on the design and implementation of a small scale prototype for
harvesting electrical energy from human footsteps. The key areas covered in the study
include:
 Mechanical design; development of a footstep platform capable of capturing
forceexerted by human weight
 Energy conversion; utilizing piezoelectric material or electromagnetic generator to
convertor mechanical energy into electric energy.
 Power conditioning ; rectification and regulation of thr generated electrical output in
bot AC and DC forms suitable for storage or direct usage.
 Energy storage ; implementation of storage components such as rechargeable
batteries or capacitors to store harvested energy
 Load management; demonstration of powering small load such as LED lights
 Prototype testing performance testing of the system under different load conditions
and footstep frequencies.

1.6 Significance of the study

To convert one of the forms of human generated power which is walking, using
piezoelectric principle to generate power for mobile electronics and the design can eventually
create clean, renewable electricity to charge portable devices like sensors, GPS units and cell
phones.
2. 0: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1: Review of related work and research on the topic

According to T.R. Deshmukh paper deals with design and modeling of parts of the model of the
foot step power generation system using 3d modeling software. This process consist number of
simple setup that is installed under the walking or standing platform. Project system works on the
principle of converting the linear motion because to pressure of foot steps into rotating motion by
rack and pinion arrangement. This mechanism fails if there is any occurrence of variable load
leads to balancing type problems Power is not generated during return movement of rack.

Sasank shekhar Panda’s paper is based on crank shaft; fly wheel, and gear arrangement .This
type of footsteps power generation system are eligible to be installed in crowded places and rural
areas. Thus this is a very good technology to provide effective solution to power related
problems to affordable extent. This will be the most acceptable means of providing power to the
places that involves difficulties of transmission. Maintenance and lubrication is required time to
time.

Miss. Mathane, state that piezoelectric materials are having crystalline structure. They can
convert mechanical energy in the electrical energy and vice versa. The produced electrical
energy from piezoelectric crystal is very low in the order of 2-3 volts and is stored in battery to
charge controller, since it is not possible to charge 12v battery through crystal output. To
increase the voltage, the boost converter circuit is used. Comparison between various
piezoelectric material shows that PZT is superior in characteristics. Also, by comparison it was
found that series- parallel combination connection is more suitable. The weight applied on the
tile and corresponding voltage generated is studied and they are found to have linear relation. It
is especially suited for implementation in crowded areas.

2.2 : Gaps in existing research

Existing research has demonstrated the potential of energy harvesting technologies, particularly
those utilizing piezoelectric and electromagnetic materials, to convert mechanical energy into
electrical energy. Several studies have focused on the development of piezoelectric floor tiles
and similar systems to harness energy from human motion. However, despite these
advancements, significant gaps remain that hinder the widespread adoption and practical
implementation of these technologies.

 Limited Energy Conversion Efficiency:

One major challenge highlighted in previous studies is the relatively low energy
conversion efficiency of piezoelectric systems. While the concept of converting footsteps
into electricity is well-established, the amount of energy generated per footstep is often
insufficient for practical applications. This limitation calls for further research into
 optimizing the material properties, system design, and energy storage mechanisms to
enhance efficiency.
 Integration into Existing Infrastructure:
Research has often focused on the development of standalone energy harvesting
prototypes, with limited attention given to the challenges of integrating these systems into
existing infrastructures, such as flooring in urban or commercial environments. Factors
such as durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with various flooring materials
need to be addressed to enable seamless adoption.
 Cost-Effectiveness:
The economic feasibility of energy harvesting systems is a critical factor that has been
underexplored in existing research. Many prototypes rely on advanced materials and
complex designs, which may drive up costs. Comprehensive cost-benefit analyses and
exploration of alternative materials are needed to ensure that the proposed solutions are
affordable and scalable.
 AC/DC Output Challenges:
While previous research has predominantly focused on generating either AC or DC
electricity, the dual-output capability remains underexplored. Systems capable of
producing both AC and DC electricity would offer greater flexibility and broader
applicability, but achieving this requires innovative circuit designs and efficient energy
conversion processes.
 Performance in Real-World Conditions:
A significant gap in current research is the lack of real-world testing and validation. Most
studies are conducted under controlled laboratory conditions, which may not accurately
reflect the challenges faced in high-footfall areas. Factors such as varying weight loads,
uneven walking patterns, and environmental conditions (e.g., temperature and humidity)
can impact the performance and reliability of the system.
 Scalability and Long-Term Sustainability:
Few studies have explored the long-term sustainability and scalability of energy
harvesting systems. For widespread adoption, it is essential to understand how these
systems perform over extended periods and under continuous usage. Additionally, the
environmental impact of producing and disposing of these systems remains an open
question.

This research aims to address these gaps by developing a dual-output AC/DC power
harvesting system with improved efficiency and adaptability. By focusing on real-world
implementation, cost-effectiveness, and long-term sustainability, this study seeks to
overcome the limitations of existing technologies and contribute to the advancement of
renewable energy solutions.

3.0: METHODOLOGY

3.1 Design and fabrication process

The research will be conducted in several phases:
 1. System Design: Develop the theoretical framework and specifications for the power
harvesting system using piezoelectric and electromagnetic technologies.
2. Prototype Development: Construct a prototype system with integrated sensors and
converters to transform mechanical energy into usable electrical energy.
3. Testing and Analysis: Test the prototype in controlled environments to measure energy
conversion efficiency and output. Analyze performance under varying conditions of foot
traffic density and load.
4. Implementation Feasibility: Assess the practical aspects of implementing the system in
real-world settings, including cost analysis and integration challenges.

3.2 Tools and Equipment

3.2.1 Design Tools:

 CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks): Mechanical and structural modeling of

harvesting units.
 MATLAB/Simulink: Electrical simulations and circuit analysis.
 COMSOL Multiphysics: Simulation of stress and strain effects on materials.

3.2.2 Equipment:

 Piezoelectric elements (PZT-based materials).

 Electromagnetic coils and permanent magnets for inductive energy harvesting.
 Energy storage components (supercapacitors, Li-ion batteries).
 Oscilloscopes and multimeters for voltage and current measurement.
 Microcontrollers (Arduino, Raspberry Pi) for data acquisition and system monitoring.

3.3 Project Timeline

Phase Task Duration

Phase 1 Literature Review & System Design 2 months
Phase 2 Component Selection & Prototyping 3 months
Phase 3 System Testing & Performance Evaluation 2 months
Phase 4 Optimization, Documentation, and Final Report 1 month

4.0 PLAN AND SCHEDULE (GANTT CHART)

Below is a Gantt Chart outlining the schedule:

Task Month 1 Month 2 Month 3 Month 4 Month 5 Month 6 Month 7

Literature Review ████ ████
System Design ████ ████
Task Month 1 Month 2 Month 3 Month 4 Month 5 Month 6 Month 7
Component Selection ████ ████
Prototyping ████ ████
Testing ████ ████
Performance Analysis ████ ████
Documentation ████

5.0 EXPECTED OUTCOMES

5.10 What a project aims to bring

 A working prototype capable of harvesting and converting footstep energy into usable
AC/DC power.
 Comparative analysis of piezoelectric vs electromagnetic harvesting efficiency.
 Optimization of storage modules for practical deployment.
 Performance evaluation under different load and footstep frequency conditions.

5.20 Potential Implementation

 Smart flooring systems in commercial spaces, subway stations, and airports.

 Wearable energy harvesting applications for mobile charging.
 Powering embedded sensors in smart cities for IoT applications.
 Sustainable lighting solutions for public spaces.

6.0 Budget Estimate

Item Quantity Unit Cost ($) Total Cost ($)

Piezoelectric elements 50 10 500
Electromagnetic coils 20 15 300
& magnets
Microcontrollers 2 50 100
Supercapacitors 5 30 150
Li-ion Batteries 5 40 200
Structural Materials Various 300 300
Testing & Sensors Various 250 250
Miscellaneous - - 200
Expenses
7.0. CONCLUSION

By harnessing human footsteps for energy generation, this project contributes to sustainable
development and alternative energy solutions. The findings from this research will help improve
kinetic energy harvesting technologies and expand their applications in urban environments.

8.0: REFERENCES

[1] Ramsay M J and ClarrkW W Piezoelectric energy harvesting for bio MEMS applications
Proc. SPIE 4332 429–38, 2001

[2] Starner, T.,“Human-Powered Wearable Computing,” IBM Systems Journal, Vol. 35,
pp.618,1996.

[3] Stephen R. Platt, Shane Farritor, and Hani Haider “On Low- Frequency Electric Power
Generation with PZT Ceramics.

[4] V. Hugo Schmidt, “Piezoelectric energy conversion in windmills,” in Proc. Ultrasonic

Symp., pp. 897–904, 1992.

[5] Mishanga Bao, analysis and design principles of MEMS devices, pp 247 -253.

[6] Starner T Low-Power Electronics Design (Boca Raton: CRC Press) ch 45, 2005.

[7] Niu P, Chapman P, Riemer R and Zhang X Evaluation of motions and actuation methods for
biomechanical energy harvesting IEEE 35th Annual Power Electronics Specialists Conf. 2100 6,
2004.

[8] Kymissis J, Kendall C, Paradiso J and Gershenfeld N 1998 2nd Int. Symp. Wearable
Computers