The goal of this project is to research, design, and construct a prototype of a device that can harness bio-mechanical energy from human motion and store it as electricity. This will take the shape of a small generator powered by the repetitive, angular motion of the bending knee joint. The generator will be wired to a rechargeable battery that can be clipped to a belt, placed in a pocket, etc. This is so the operator of the device has access to power when not in motion. Also, the alternating, start-and-stop motion of the knee does not provide a steady a current, so it is both safer and more reliable, albeit marginally less efficient, to use the motion to charge to charge a battery first.
The motivation behind this project is the desire for a cheap, efficient way to charge electronic devices while on the move. The vast majority of chargers are adapters that must be plugged into a wall outlet, restricting mobility and preventing outdoor use. Solar chargers have been explored, but these take up a large amount of space and are inconvenient to transport. Through brainstorming, we arrived at the concept of using energy created by human motion.
We believe this project will be applicable to everyday life for the common person. By generating clean energy with a cheap device, we will bring sustainable power to urban and rural environments, potentially giving access to disadvantaged people.
