EcoPulse

Ce qu'il fait

EcoPulse is a modular flooring system that harnesses kinetic energy to illuminate the streets using strategically placed piezoelectric pads beneath its surface.

Votre source d'inspiration

The idea for the modular power-generating tiles came when we chanced upon temporary square mesh tiles to bypass road works on pedestrian side paths. These tiles had tessellating edges and could cover an area of any shape, limited only by the dimension of an individual tile.

Comment ça marche

The EcoPulse system is designed as a modular, footstep-powered energy-harvesting platform that converts kinetic energy into usable electrical power for LED illumination in urban environments. Each tile integrates strategically positioned piezoelectric pads beneath a durable anti-slip surface, capable of withstanding static loads of up to 12,000 N based on FEA analysis, with a maximum deformation of 6 mm to ensure user safety. The system demonstrated high durability, withstanding the equivalent of 1.4 million footsteps during fatigue testing. Mechanically, the design emphasizes a replaceable and scalable tile format to facilitate installation and maintenance across construction walkways and public infrastructure. Electrically, each tile outputs approximately 12V after 700 footfalls, with energy converted and regulated via an onboard rectifier and capacitor circuit.

Processus de conception

The first prototype was created as a proof of concept of the “butterfly” mechanical keyboard key mechanism for use in this application. The mechanism allows simultaneous depression of the tile regardless of the point of contact on the tile. In the prototype, rubber bands were used instead of metal springs. The number of rubber bands and the rubber bands of different tensions can be varied in combination to find the ideal springiness experimentally. Once we verified that it worked, we proceeded to create a larger version of the design. Through research, we ensured that the 2nd iteration of the prototype had a depression height of less than 6mm to prevent tripping. The 3rd prototype was modelled in SolidWorks. It is a virtual prototype to understand the capabilities and limitations of the material at hand and the layout for the field testing prototype. The framework is made of aluminum profiles and an acrylic board salvaged from FYP scraps. The 4th prototype, shown in Figure 4, was constructed to showcase the mechanism and electronics using a transparent tile piece. This prototype was also used to demonstrate the piezoelectric energy harvesting technology. The 5th prototype was created as a demo unit for walking.

En quoi est-il différent ?

EcoPulse uses a butterfly style switch system which allows for simultaneous depression of the tile surface even when only a small section of the tile is being pushed down. This heightens safety and reduces a tripping hazard when the tile is being depressed on only one side. It is also modular, and scalable when compared to other piezoelectric tiles and roads currently in the market today. EcoPulse can be manufactured entirely by additive manufacturing technology, allowing it to be manufactured using greener materials.

Plans pour l'avenir

Scalability and Deployment in Urban Environments: EcoPulse is designed with modularity in mind. The next phase will explore large-scale deployment scenarios, such as: Covered walkways in construction sites, MRT station exits, Public plazas and school entrances, Car park gantries and speed bumps and Central business district Smart City and IoT Integration; To align with Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative, EcoPulse will explore the integration of IoT connectivity to: Monitor energy production in real time, Display interactive dashboards for public awareness and Track environmental performance indicators (e.g., CO₂ offset)

Récompenses