Integration of Piezoelectric and Light-Dependent-Resistor Sensors for Efficient Generation

and Utilization of Electricity for Pathways

Dr.S.Pavithra Gaganya Mohan (20MIS1126) Porshia Joan .W (20MIS1017)

Assistant Professor Sr
School of Computer Science and Engineering
Vellore Institute of Technology,
Chennai, TamilNadu
pavithra.sekar@vit.ac.in
Integrated M.Tech
(Software Engineering Student )
School of Computer Science and Engineering
Vellore Institute of Technology Chennai,
Tamil Nadu
gaganya.mohan2020@vitstudent.ac.in
Integrated M.Tech
(Software Engineering Student )
School of Computer Science and Engineering
Vellore Institute of Technology
Chennai,TamilNadu
porshiajoan.w2020@vitstudent.ac.in

Abstract— The ever-increasing demand for energy in I. INTRODUCTION

our modern world necessitates exploration of innovative
and sustainable solutions. This paper investigates the
potential of piezoelectric materials for harvesting energy
from everyday human movement. We look into
costeffective system utilizing piezoelectric sensors
embedded under flooring to capture the energy generated
by footsteps. This harvested energy can be stored in and
boosted for powering devices. This paper explores the
utilization of piezoelectric energy harvesting technology
to create electricity-generating pathways, offering a
sustainable solution for powering pathway lights in urban
environments. Piezoelectric sensors strategically placed
along the pathway surface capture kinetic energy from
pedestrian movement, converting it into electrical energy.
This energy is stored in rechargeable batteries and
undergoes voltage conversion to power pathway lights
effectively. A light-dependent resistor (LDR) sensor
ensures lights only activate when necessary, optimizing
energy usage. An Arduino Uno microcontroller
orchestrates light operation based on ambient light
conditions. The methodology focuses on efficient energy
utilization and provides a practical solution for
sustainable pathway lighting. Several prototypes and
studies are discussed, highlighting the potential and
limitations of piezoelectric energy harvesting technology.
The results demonstrate consistent power generation,
high energy conversion efficiency, and cost-effectiveness,
underscoring the feasibility and effectiveness of the
proposed approach.
Keywords --- Piezoelectric, Energy harvesting, Footsteps,
Sensors, Flooring, Electricity generation, Pathway lights,
Urban environments, Rechargeable batteries,
Sustainable solution
Energy harvesting has been a topic of extensive discussion
and analysis among researchers, particularly over the past
decade with the rapid developments in low power
electronics, especially in the realm of wireless sensor
networks. This surge in interest is largely due to the
increasing demand for energy, driving the exploration and
utilization of various energy sources. Presently, there is a
notable surge in global power generation and consumption,
with India significantly contributing to the rise in energy
demand since 2000 [1]. Over this period, India's energy
consumption has nearly doubled, elevating its share of the
global demand [2]. Electricity production remains a
primary source of pollution worldwide [3], underscoring
the critical need for exploring alternative energy sources
and their practical applications [4]. Scientists and inventors
in the field of energy harvesting are actively researching
sustainable alternatives to non-renewable sources like
steam and diesel power plants, which are major
contributors to irreversible environmental changes [5].
Energy harvesting involves the extraction of energy from
external sources, which can then be used to power
machines directly or stored for future use. Traditional
methods of energy
The output voltage of piezoelectric generators is influenced
by several parameters, including the type of piezoelectric
element used, its packing density, the strain applied, the
associated electronic circuitry, the storage device, and the
connected load. Piezoelectric energy harvesting is
particularly suitable for micro-power generation, offering
substantial power to run low-power electronic devices such
as smart wireless sensors that consume minimal energy.
This deployment holds promise for reducing the cost of
power consumption in various applications.
 Despite numerous models being developed to date, most
produce a low power rate, limiting their practicality.
Therefore, there is a need for methodologies that increase
output power while ensuring reliability and simplifying the
power conversion process also the need for energy
generating pathways comes from a few reasons. Firstly, the
demand for electricity is rising rapidly due to more people
living in cities, population growth, and advances in
technology. This puts a lot of pressure on current energy
systems, which are based on limited resources and cause
environmental problems. Secondly, there's a push to reduce
carbon emissions and fight climate change by using cleaner,
renewable energy sources. Energy generating pathways
offer a solution by tapping into renewable energy from
human activity and natural movements, avoiding the
harmful effects of traditional energy production. Despite
their promise, current methods of generating energy from
pathways have some drawbacks. Traditional energy sources
like fossil fuels and hydroelectric dams harm the
environment and are limited in how much energy they can
produce. Even renewable sources like solar and wind power
have challenges like being intermittent and needing storage
solutions. This calls for new ways to harvest energy that are
reliable, scalable, and environmentally friendly.
Enter the piezoelectric sensor, an exciting technology that
can change the game in energy harvesting. Piezoelectric
materials can produce electricity when they're squeezed or
stressed, making them perfect for capturing energy from
people walking or vehicles moving. Piezoelectric sensors
have many other uses too, from monitoring structures to
tracking health metrics. The project aims to harness the
power of piezoelectric sensors to create energy-generating
pathways. By placing these sensors under sidewalks or
busy streets, we can capture the energy from footsteps and
traffic and turn it into electricity. This energy will be stored
in batteries and used to power pathway lights, making
urban areas safer and reducing the need for electricity from
the grid. The system harnesses piezoelectric sensors placed
strategically on pathway surfaces to capture kinetic energy
from pedestrian movement and convert it into electrical
energy. This energy is stored in a rechargeable battery,
ensuring a continuous power supply, while a voltage
conversion process optimizes energy usage for illuminating
pathway lights. These lights, positioned strategically along
the route, enhance safety by illuminating the pathway.
Integral to the system is a lightdependent resistor (LDR)
sensor, enabling lights to switch on only when necessary,
minimizing energy wastage. The operation of pathway
lights is orchestrated by an Arduino Uno microcontroller,
which monitors ambient light conditions in real-time and
automatically switches the lights on and off as needed.
Through seamless integration of piezoelectric sensors,
energy storage mechanisms, voltage conversion processes,
light sensing functionalities, and microcontroller-based
control, the project aims to create an energy-efficient and
sustainable lighting solution for pathways, enhancing
safety and usability in urban environments.
II. RELATED WORK
Several studies have explored the potential of piezoelectric
energy harvesting technologies for various applications,
including road energy harvesting and footstep power
generation. One notable contribution is the introduction of
stacked piezoelectric energy harvesters specifically
designed for road energy harvesting applications. This
research addresses the limitations of existing road
piezoelectric power technology by enhancing electrical
output and energy efficiency [6]. Additionally, the
optimization of cantilever piezoelectric energy harvesters
for road infrastructure has been investigated. Through finite
element modelling and stress distribution analysis,
researchers have improved the structural characteristics of
energy harvesters to overcome issues related to low
electrical output levels and poor matching with road traffic
[7]
Moreover, the utilization of piezoelectric materials for
harvesting energy from human footsteps has garnered
significant attention. A study proposing a piezoelectric
generator system installed beneath flooring to capture
energy from vibrations generated by walking exemplifies
this effort [8] Furthermore, the concept of generating power
from footsteps using piezoelectric sensors has been
explored extensively. This research underscores the
potential of utilizing piezoelectric technology to capture
wasted mechanical energy from human mobility,
particularly in densely populated areas [9] Lastly, the
importance of harnessing waste energy from human foot
power as reusable energy has been emphasized. Practical
implementations of piezoelectric transducers in circuit
designs have been proposed to generate electrical force
from foot movement, offering cost-effective solutions for
low-power applications [10]. Collectively, these studies
highlight the growing interest in piezoelectric energy
harvesting technologies and their potential to address
2
energy needs in various contexts, from road infrastructure
to human movement.
Amat A. Basari et al. proposed a system for energy
harvesting using a piezoelectric ceramic disc, which was
tested on a hydraulic pressing machine. Their study focused
on analysing the performance of a single piezo cell, which
produced a relatively low output power of 14.5 𝜇W for a
force of 0.75 kN [9].N. Kong and D.S. Ha's research
introduced a low-power energy harvesting device that
utilized discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) flyback
conversion for power extraction. Although the system
achieved a maximum power output of 8.4 mW using four
parallel piezoelectric cantilevers, its complexity and low
output power limit its practical applications [11]. Zhang et
al. conducted a numerical simulation on energy harvesting
from asphalt pavements, highlighting the impact of critical
parameters such as pavement type and vehicle speed on
electrical output. While the study provided valuable
insights, the output power obtained from this method was
insufficient for practical applications [12]. Hongbing Wang
and Chunhua Sun proposed a unique square canister energy
harvester for extracting energy from asphalt pavement.
Their parametric study showed that the optimal buried
depth for the harvester ranged between 30 and 50 mm.
Although the system yielded a voltage output of
approximately 64.442 V and generated 0.705 m W of
power at a 15 Hz vehicle load, the output power was still
relatively low [13].
At Virginia Tech, Xiong investigated a piezoelectric
harvesting system that utilized cylindrical piezo materials
squeezed by road tires to capture energy lost by vehicles on
highways. While the system generated voltages ranging
from 400 V to 700 V and currents ranging from 0.2 to 0.35
mA, resulting in a power output range of 0.08 to 2.1 Watts
per unit, the average power output of 3.106 m W indicated
limitations in fully exploiting the applied load [14].
Several energy harvesting devices based on Lead Zirconate
(PZT) piezoelectric ceramic transducers have been
proposed in literature. These devices utilize various
configurations such as cantilever beams, springs, or
patches, with some prototypes incorporating PZT-5X
material composed of hardened steel and ceramic.
Installations of these devices have been deployed in diverse
environments including offshore buoys, asphalt pavements,
tank pipes, buildings, and even within the human body.
They serve a range of applications, from powering
implantable medical electronic devices to LED lights and
portable sensors. Innovative designs have demonstrated
output power ranging from 4.91 μ W to 2.09 kW/day, with
potential differentials between 400 mV and 20 V/s
[1518].Other prototypes feature piezoelectric material in
Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) configurations, such as
folded sheets, cantilevers, or patches, commonly used as
nanogenerators. These devices have been installed in
various settings including local roads, vehicle bridges,
tires, fluid flow pipes, and as battery replacements. They
aim to power wireless sensors, LED diodes, and
microelectronic systems, achieving electrical powers
between 1.2 μW and 16.5 W, with voltage outputs ranging
from 29 mV to 7 V Additionally, some designs utilize
piezoelectric macro fibre material (MFC), comprising
rectangular PZT 5A fibres embedded with copper
electrodes. These prototypes, often in the form of
cantilevers or patches, have been deployed in wind
generators, airflow pipes, and even within the human body.
They aim to provide constant power to wireless sensors and
portable electronic devices, generating output power
between 700 μW and 13.6 mW[22,23] .
Furthermore, high-performance piezoelectric elastic
nanogenerators composed of piezoelectric nanowires (NW)
with Zinc Oxide (ZnO) have been developed. These
nanogenerators, along with AC/DC and DC/DC converters,
are implanted in the human body to generate electrical
energy upon movement, powering self-powered touch
sensors. They exhibit excellent performance with a
maximum output power of 35 μ W [20] Other devices
include prototypes in the form of tiles, composed of
flexible, thin film piezoelectric material of Group III
Nitride (III-N), and based on the use of Perovskite Oxide in
sheet form. These devices, implanted in the human body or
used to power implantable biomedical devices,
demonstrate electrical power generation capabilities, albeit
with varying voltage outputs [21]. Another study
investigated the impact of mass positioning on the
performance of a flexible piezoelectric energy harvester
[24]. The experiment revealed notable findings: when the
proof mass is positioned 8 cm from the clamping point, the
harvester exhibits a resonance frequency of 9.9 Hz and
achieves a maximum power output of 127 μ W. In contrast,
with the mass positioned at 4 cm, the resonance frequency
increases to 16 Hz, and the maximum power output
decreases to 72 μ W. These results indicate that the
maximum power extracted varies inversely with the
resonance frequency (approximately 1/f R) for a constant
3
acceleration of 1 g (9.81 m/s^2), aligning with theoretical piezoelectric sensors embedded under flooring. This
expectations. These promising outcomes suggest that the harvested energy is stored and distributed to power
prototype has potential for low-power applications as an pathway lights effectively, utilizing light-dependent
energy harvesting-based micro-generator. The study resistor sensors and an Arduino Uno microcontroller to
underscores the importance of optimizing mass positioning optimize energy usage based on ambient light conditions.
to enhance the performance and efficiency of flexible By evaluating the system's performance in terms of energy
piezoelectric energy harvesters, opening doors for practical generation, conversion efficiency, and cost-effectiveness
applications in energy harvesting technologies[25]. through prototypes and studies, this project aims to offer a
Piezoelectric sensors have emerged as versatile devices practical and eco-friendly solution for sustainable pathway
with diverse applications, particularly when integrated with lighting in urban environments, thereby contributing to
other sensor technologies like LDR sensors. Hosen et energy conservation and environmental sustainability.
al.[26] proposed a "Footstep power generation with auto
light control system" where piezoelectric sensors
embedded in the flooring capture pressure-induced III. METHODOLOGY
electrical energy, which is then monitored by a
microcontroller-based circuit for charging batteries.
In this research project proposes a approach to
Similarly, Mittal et al[27]. introduced an "Intelligent Street
powering pathway lights using piezoelectric
Lighting System" utilizing piezoelectric sensors and LDR
energy harvesting technology. The methodology
sensors to compute light intensity based on traffic
encompasses several key components aimed at
conditions and occupancy, thus optimizing energy usage
efficiently utilizing harvested energy to provide
through sustainable power systems like solar panels and
illumination along pathways, thereby enhancing
battery storage.[28] Pasaribu and Bukit conducted
visibility and safety, particularly during lowlight
experiments to analyse the effects of loading, walking
conditions.
speed, and piezoelectric sensor placement on output
voltage, highlighting the significance of sensor positioning
for maximizing energy generation. Moreover, Shobana et
al[29]. proposed an IoT-based Smart Traffic Lights and
Streetlight System, integrating piezoelectric sensors to
modify signal timings based on traffic densities, coupled
with LDR sensors for efficient energy utilization and traffic
management. Additionally, Safian et al[30]. developed an
embedded piezoelectric transducer for bearing fault
detection, showcasing the versatility of piezoelectric
sensors in diverse applications beyond energy harvesting,
such as fault detection in mechanical systems. These
studies collectively demonstrate the multifaceted
Fig1. Block diagram
capabilities of piezoelectric sensors when combined with
LDR sensors, ranging from energy harvesting and smart
lighting systems to traffic management and mechanical A. Piezoelectric Sensor Integration
fault detection, paving the way for innovative solutions in
various domains. The foundation of the system lies in the utilization of
piezoelectric sensors, strategically placed along the
pathway surface. These sensors are designed to generate
PROBLEM STATEMENT
electricity in response to mechanical pressure, such as that
This project addresses the escalating energy demand by
induced by footsteps. By harnessing this piezoelectric
exploring piezoelectric materials as a sustainable solution
effect, we aim to capture the kinetic energy from pedestrian
for harvesting energy from everyday human movement.
movement and convert it into electrical energy. The
The objective is to design and implement an efficient
electricity generated by a piezoelectric sensor can be
system that captures kinetic energy from footsteps using

4
calculated using the formula:
𝐸=12×𝑑𝑒𝑓𝑓×𝐴×𝐹E=21×deff×A×F Where:
• 𝐸E is the electricity generated (in volts),
• deff is the effective piezoelectric coefficient (in
m/V),
• A is the effective area of the sensor (in m²), • F
is the applied force or pressure (in Newtons).
Firstly, the selection of suitable piezoelectric materials and
sensors is crucial, considering factors such as sensitivity,
durability, and size. These sensors are strategically placed
in high-traffic areas where foot pressure is frequent,
ensuring optimal energy harvesting. Next, the sensors are
connected to a power conditioning unit, which converts the
mechanical energy generated by footsteps into usable
electrical energy.
This unit may include components such as voltage
regulators and amplifiers to optimize energy output.
Additionally, careful consideration is given to the
placement and arrangement of sensors to maximize energy
capture while minimizing interference with foot traffic.
Finally, the harvested energy is stored in batteries or
capacitors for later use or directly utilized to power various
applications, contributing to sustainable and efficient
energy utilization.
Fig2. Working of a piezo electric sensor
Voltage Generated in Series Connection When
piezoelectric tiles are connected in series, the total voltage
(𝑉𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙) can be calculated by summing up the voltages
generated by each tile: 𝑉𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙=𝑉1+𝑉2+𝑉3+…+𝑉𝑛 Where:
• Vtotal is the total voltage,
• 𝑉1,𝑉2,𝑉3,…,𝑉𝑛 are the voltages
generated by each piezoelectric tile.
Voltage Generated in Parallel Connection When
piezoelectric tiles are connected in parallel, the total
voltage remains the same as the voltage generated by a
single tile. Therefore, the total voltage (𝑉𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙Vtotal) in
parallel connection is equal to the voltage generated by a
single tile:
𝑉𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙=𝑉1=𝑉2=𝑉3=…=𝑉𝑛 Where:
• Vtotal is the total voltage, which is equal
to the voltage generated by a single tile
(𝑉1=𝑉2=𝑉3=…=𝑉𝑛V1=V2=V3=…=Vn).
In series connection, the voltage generated by each
piezoelectric sensor adds up. This means that the total
voltage output of the series connection is the sum of the
voltages generated by each individual sensor. Therefore,
multiple sensors connected in series, the total voltage
output will be higher compared to a single sensor.
B. Energy Storage Mechanism
To ensure a continuous and reliable power supply, the
electricity generated by the piezoelectric sensors is stored
in a rechargeable battery. This energy storage mechanism
serves as a buffer, allowing us to accumulate surplus energy
during periods of high foot traffic and utilize it during
periods of low or no activity.
C. Voltage Conversion Process
The stored electrical energy undergoes voltage conversion
using a 12V to 220V converter. This conversion process is
essential for transforming the low-voltage electricity from
the battery into a higher voltage suitable for powering
pathway lights. By stepping up the voltage, we optimize the
efficiency of energy utilization for illumination purposes.
For a sinusoidal AC waveform, the voltage can be
represented as:
𝑉(𝑡)=𝑉peak×sin(𝜔𝑡+𝜙) Where:
• V(t) is the instantaneous voltage at time 𝑡t,
• Vpeak is the peak voltage of the AC waveform,
• ω is the angular frequency (radians per second),
• t is time, • ϕ is the phase angle.
In an inverter, the DC input voltage is converted into an AC
output voltage. To generate the AC waveform, the DC
voltage is typically converted into a square wave or a
modified sine wave. Let's consider the case of a modified
sine wave.
The formula for a modified sine wave can be represented
as a piecewise function: 𝑉out(𝑡)={𝑉peakif 0≤ ≤ 2
5
 { −𝑉peakif 𝑇2< ≤𝑇
Where:
• 𝑉out(𝑡) is the output voltage at time 𝑡t,
• T is the period of the waveform. This formula
describes how the DC input voltage is converted
into an AC output voltage with a modified sine
wave shape.

Fig3. Working of a LDR sensor

D. Pathway Lighting Implementation

The converted electricity is then directed towards powering F. Arduino Uno Control Mechanism
pathway lights strategically positioned along the
designated route. These lights serve the crucial function of To orchestrate the operation of the pathway lights based on
illuminating the pathway, thereby enhancing visibility and input from the LDR sensor, we employ an Arduino Uno
safety for pedestrians, cyclists, or other users, especially microcontroller. This control mechanism enables real-time
during nighttime or in dimly lit environments. monitoring of ambient light conditions and facilitates the
automatic switching on and off of the lights as needed. By
E. Light Sensing Functionality leveraging microcontroller-based control, we enhance the
efficiency and effectiveness of the lighting system.
An integral part of the system is the incorporation of a light-
dependent resistor (LDR) sensor. This sensor is designed to IV. PROPOSED ARCHITECTURE
detect ambient light levels and serves as a trigger
mechanism for the pathway lights. By monitoring natural
light levels, the system ensures that the lights only switch
on when illumination is required, optimizing energy usage
and minimizing wastage. The LDR sensors serve to
modulate the power generation system based on ambient
light conditions. LDR sensors detect changes in light
intensity, enabling the system to adjust its power output
accordingly.
During periods of low ambient light, such as at night or in
shaded areas, the power generation system may prioritize Fig4. System Architecture diagram
energy storage over immediate consumption, ensuring
ample energy reserves for later use. Conversely, in well-lit
environments, the system can optimize energy utilization,
directing more power towards immediate consumption or
charging external devices. By integrating LDR sensors, the
footstep power generation system enhances its efficiency
and adaptability to varying light conditions, ultimately
maximizing its overall effectiveness and usability.

Fig5. Hardware Architecture diagram

6
The methodology of the project revolves around harnessing Practically, this translates to powering low-power devices
piezoelectric energy to power pathway lights efficiently. It like wireless sensors or hallway lighting, especially in
begins with the installation of piezoelectric sensors along populated areas with high foot traffic. Looking ahead, we'll
the pathway to capture mechanical pressure, such as explore scaling the system for larger spaces and identify
footsteps, and convert it into electrical energy. This energy future research avenues, potentially focusing on improved
is then stored in a rechargeable battery for later use. Unlike material properties or integrating energy storage solutions.
traditional energy sources, such as grid electricity or By achieving these results, this project has the potential to
batteries, this approach utilizes renewable energy generated pave the way for a sustainable and cost-effective method of
from human movement, making it sustainable and harvesting lowpower energy.
environmentally friendly. A key aspect that sets this project
apart from others is its integration of a voltage conversion
mechanism. The harvested electrical energy undergoes
voltage conversion from 12V to 220V, enabling it to power
pathway lights effectively. Additionally, the system
incorporates a light dependent resistor (LDR) sensor to
detect ambient light levels. This sensor ensures that the
pathway lights only activate when natural light levels are
low, optimizing energy usage and enhancing safety during
dimly lit conditions.

Furthermore, the project employs an Arduino Uno

microcontroller for control and automation. The Fig6. Accuracy of LDR sensor
microcontroller monitors the input from the LDR sensor
and regulates the switching on and off of the pathway lights In this project, the accuracy of the LDR (Light Dependent
accordingly. This automation enhances the system's Resistor) sensor was rigorously evaluated to ensure its reliability
efficiency and reliability, ensuring that the lights operate in capturing ambient light levels for the pathway lighting system.
precisely when needed while minimizing energy waste. In Through a series of experiments, the project team compared LDR
summary, the project's methodology offers a sensor readings with known reference values, obtained either
through calibration or controlled light source simulations. The
comprehensive approach to sustainable pathway lighting
accuracy assessment was quantified using the Root Mean Squared
by utilizing piezoelectric energy harvesting, voltage
Error (RMSE) metric, which measures the average deviation
conversion, light sensing, and microcontroller-based between sensor readings and reference values. By meticulously
control. It addresses the need for efficient energy utilization following steps to calculate RMSE, including simulating sensor
and provides a practical solution for illuminating pathways readings, adding noise, and analyzing discrepancies, the team
in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner. gauged the LDR sensor's precision in capturing light intensity
variations. This meticulous evaluation of accuracy was essential
to ensure that the pathway lighting system could adapt effectively
IV. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION to changing light conditions, thereby enhancing safety and
usability in urban environments while minimizing energy
consumption.
This research on piezoelectric sensors for energy
generation aims to achieve : increased power output,
improved efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. We expect a
significant boost in electricity generation compared to
existing systems, analyzing factors like sensor quantity and
walking patterns to optimize power capture. Efficiency
will be a key focus, measuring how well mechanical energy
from footsteps translates into usable electricity. Here, cost
comes into play – our goal is to demonstrate a more
affordable approach through a simpler system design.

7

Fig7. Hardware component with piezo electric sensors
on the amount of pressure applied ,resistance and condition
of the sensor.
Fig.8 Voltage generated by piezoelectric
sensor
One 27mm disc produces a voltage of 3V depending on
the pressure applied, and when arranged in series, they
produce 10.366V, we can calculate the voltage produced
When 12 sensors are connected in series, the total voltage
produced would be
Vtotal=Vsingle×12
𝑉𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙=10.366 V×12Vtotal=10.366V×12
𝑉𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙=124.392 VVtotal=124.392V
This value varies depending on the amount of mechanical
pressure applied on the tile ,When this voltage is sent into
an electronic 12V DC to 220V AC 100 Watt converter, the
output voltage would be stepped up from 12V DC to 220V
AC. This specific converter would be able to handle the
input voltage of 124.392V and step it up to 220V AC. To
calculate the duration the 220V bulb would emit light, the
energy generated by the sensors over 50 steps, with each
step producing 124.392V of electricity. This resulted in a
total energy output of 6219.6V·steps. Assuming the bulb
consumes 100 watts of power, we determined that it
consumes 100W of energy per hour. By dividing the total
energy generated by the bulb's power consumption per
hour, we found that the bulb could emit light for
approximately 62.196 hours before running out of
electricity. Therefore, based on these calculations, the 220V
bulb would illuminate for roughly 62.196 hours before
losing electricity. The presenc e of resistance in an energy
harvesting system significantly impacts its overall
performance and efficiency. In scenarios where resistance
is not adequately minimized, the voltage drop across the
system can be substantial, leading to a significant reduction
in the effective voltage available to power devices such as
Fig9. Usage waves of piezoelectric sensor and LDR sensor
The usage waves of the piezoelectric sensor and LDR sensor serve
as representations of their respective outputs over time. The
piezoelectric sensor's usage wave, depicting power generation
variations, could have been derived from empirical data collected
in real-world settings or theoretical models considering factors
like mechanical pressure, material properties, and environmental
influences such as foot traffic. Similarly, the LDR sensor's usage
wave, reflecting changes in ambient light intensity and
corresponding light usage, might have been determined through
calibrated light sensors or simulated data based on known light
patterns. By establishing thresholds for light activation, the LDR
sensor's behaviour in controlling pathway lights could be
accurately depicted. Calculating these usage waves would entail a
comprehensive approach integrating empirical observations,
sensor calibrations, and predictive modelling to faithfully capture
the behaviours of both sensors under realistic conditions.
8
Piezoelectric sensors and conventional pathway lights, the
initial cost outlay for the former is estimated at ₹7,30,000,
while the latter stands at ₹5,11,000. Operational costs,
including electricity consumption and maintenance, are
also factored in. For the energy generating lights, annual
electricity costs are estimated at
₹36,500, with maintenance expenses amounting to
₹14,600. In contrast, conventional lights would incur
higher electricity expenses of ₹58,400 annually, coupled
with maintenance costs of ₹21,900. Despite the higher
initial investment, the energy-generating pathway lights
offer tangible long-term benefits, including significant
energy savings estimated at ₹21,900 annually and a
reduced carbon footprint of 2 tons per year compared to
conventional lights. Additionally, the energy-generating
lights contribute to enhanced safety and visibility, along
with fostering a positive perception of sustainability
initiatives. While the payback period for the energy
generating lights is estimated at around 10 years, the
decision ultimately hinges on the specific needs, budget,
and priorities of stakeholders involved in the project.
Overall, the experimental results demonstrate the feasibility
and effectiveness of utilizing piezoelectric sensors for
generating electricity to power pathway lights. The system
showed consistent power generation, high energy
conversion efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. These
findings underscore the potential of piezoelectric energy
harvesting as a sustainable and efficient solution for urban
pathway lighting, offering benefits such as reduced
environmental impact, energy savings, and enhanced safety
for pedestrians.
REAL-WORLD APPLICABILITY
The proposed project, which focuses on utilizing
piezoelectric energy harvesting technology for sustainable
pathway lighting in urban environments, holds significant
real-world applicability across various domains. By
harnessing the kinetic energy generated from everyday
human movement, such as footsteps along pathways and
sidewalks, the system offers a practical solution to address
the increasing demand for energy while promoting
sustainability. In urban settings, where energy consumption
is high and space is limited, integrating piezoelectric
sensors into flooring materials presents an innovative
approach to enhance infrastructure.
The implementation of this technology not only improves
safety by providing illumination during low-light
conditions but also contributes to energy conservation
efforts and reduces reliance on traditional power sources.
Moreover, the cost-effectiveness and scalability of the
system make it suitable for deployment in diverse urban
environments, ranging from public parks and recreational
areas to commercial complexes and city centers. Beyond its
immediate benefits, the project fosters public engagement
and awareness about sustainable practices, encouraging
communities to actively participate in initiatives aimed at
mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, through
research and development endeavors, this project
contributes valuable insights to the advancement of energy
harvesting technology, paving the way for future
innovations in sustainable urban infrastructure.
Overall, the real-world applicability of this project lies in
its capacity to transform urban landscapes into more
resilient, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly
spaces, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for urban
residents.
CHALLENGES
The implementation of piezoelectric energy harvesting
technology for pathway lighting in urban environments
presents several challenges that must be addressed for
successful deployment. Firstly, the technical intricacies
involved in integrating piezoelectric sensors into flooring
materials and designing an efficient energy storage and
distribution system require expertise in diverse fields such
as materials science and electrical engineering.
Overcoming issues related to sensor sensitivity, energy
conversion efficiency, and system reliability demands
meticulous planning and execution.
Additionally, adapting the system to function effectively
under diverse environmental conditions prevalent in urban
settings, including varying weather patterns and pedestrian
traffic volumes, poses significant hurdles. Moreover, while
piezoelectric energy harvesting offers long-term energy
savings, the initial installation costs can be substantial,
necessitating careful cost-benefit analysis to ensure
economic viability.
Furthermore, ensuring the durability and longevity of the
infrastructure, navigating regulatory and permitting
requirements, gaining public acceptance, and seamlessly
integrating the system with existing urban infrastructure are
critical challenges that must be addressed. Addressing these
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challenges requires a collaborative approach involving
stakeholders from government, academia, industry, and the
community to develop innovative solutions and ensure the
successful implementation and sustainability of the project.
V. CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the utilization of piezoelectric sensors for
highly efficient electricity generating pathways presents a
promising solution for addressing the ever-increasing
demand for energy in urban environments. By harnessing
the kinetic energy from everyday human movement, these
pathways offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly
approach to electricity generation. The integration of
piezoelectric sensors, coupled with energy storage
mechanisms and voltage conversion processes, enables the
efficient capture and utilization of mechanical energy for
powering low-power devices such as pathway lights.
Furthermore, the experimental results demonstrate the
feasibility and effectiveness of this approach, showcasing
consistent power generation, high energy conversion
efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Overall, the
implementation of energy-generating pathways with
piezoelectric sensors holds significant potential for
enhancing urban sustainability, reducing carbon emissions,
and improving safety and usability in densely populated
areas.
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