16-05-2012, 04:27 PM
POWER GENERATED BY COMMON FOOTWEAR
POWER GENERATED BY COMMAN FOOTWEA1.docx (Size: 206.53 KB / Downloads: 85)
Abstract:
A power generating system was designed to passively harness some of the kinetic energy available during walking the system included a rotary arm extending down from the sole, which ultimately drove a pair of small electrical generators through a stepped-up gearbox.
A one-way clutch mechanism was used to transmit torque to the gearbox. This allowed for additional spin following the initial impact of a step, also preventing lockup due to rotary inertia in the gears. The entire generator system was designed to fit in the heel of a standard running shoe, with the rotary arm compressing once during each heel strike.
Introduction:
Background Information:
In today’s world, computers, as well as electronic devices, are becoming more and more integrated into everyday life. These seamless integrations focus on mobility, but at the same time strive to be self-effacing to the end user. With the introduction of personal data assistants (PDA’s) and advanced cellular phones capable of searching the web, true mobile computing is closer than ever.
Design and Methodology:
Initial Concepts:
In order to narrow down the possible means of generating power through a heel strike, one method of power conversion was picked. This entailed a permanent magnet – coil setup, whether it is through rotary or linear means. Various concepts that were explored also included adding mechanical energy storage, such as springs or flywheels. the following methods are existed to obtained electrical power from common footwear.
. Linear Vibration System:
This system simply entails a magnet suspended by springs, surrounded by a voice coil. Here, the method of power generation is essentially the opposite of power consumption by conventional speakers. Audio drivers take in various frequency signals representing music, and convert them to linear motion in the cone. This method of generation takes linear motion, via a heel strike, and converts it to electrical power.
Two-Way Rotary:
A rotary generator is thus used in a system that converts a linear heel strike into rotary motion through the use of a rotating arm. The arm compresses by a centimeter, which has little effect on the gait of the user. The converted rotary motion is miniscule however, and must be stepped up mechanically with a gearbox in order to turn a generator at normal operating speeds. This method is termed “Two-Way,” because it utilizes a spring, also compressed during the heel strike, to produce power on the return stroke of rotating arm.