CHARGE AS YOU WALK: PIEZOELECTRIC FOOTWEAR FOR MOBILE ENERGY GENERATION AND IOT CONNECTIVITY

Abstract

This research paper introduces the design and implementation of a pioneering Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting System (PEHS) engineered to efficiently transform mechanical energy originating from human foot movement into electrical power. The PEHS leverages piezoelectric sensors for electricity generation while integrating voltage and current sensors to oversee key electrical parameters. The harvested energy is harnessed to charge a 5V DC lithium-ion battery, offering a sustainable and portable energy source. An Arduino Nano microcontroller is harnessed for data acquisition and processing from the sensors. Real-time feedback regarding the battery's charging progress is made available through an OLED display. A distinguishing feature of this project is the integration of IoT (Internet of Things) technology, realized through the inclusion of a NodeMCU ESP8266 module. This IoT component enables wireless real-time monitoring of the system's performance and battery charging status via mobile devices, enhancing accessibility and enabling remote oversight of power generation and battery charging activities. The research delves into the pragmatic execution of the PEHS, encompassing the selection and configuration of system components, data acquisition processes, and IoT communication. It also assesses system performance and explores potential applications in the realms of wearable technology and portable energy solutions. The results underscore the viability of the proposed system for sustainable energy generation and monitoring, hinting at promising prospects for future innovations in the domain of wearable technology and portable power solutions.