A Review on Mechanisms and Challenges of Mechanical Footstep Power Generators

Abstract

As human population is increasing, so is the demand for electricity. Human locomotion is a potential source of renewable energy. A mechanical footstep power generator is used to tap waste energy from human locomotion and convert it into usable form such as electricity. Research shows that large amount of power is generated from non-renewable energy resource compared to that of renewable energy resource. The conventional methods of generating power are greatly inadequate and tend not to be eco-friendly. This review is aimed at analyzing the various methods of generating electricity through mechanical footstep power generator. Data from previous and trending works were collected through the review of relevant literatures. The mechanisms highlighted in this paper include piezo-electric mechanism, rack and pinion mechanism, fuel-piston mechanism. The selection of suitable transducers and low power capacity are challenges present in the use of piezo-electric mechanism. Rack and pinion mechanism also suffers from low power output and high maintenance cost. The fuel-piston mechanism with pulley arrangement is more efficient and requires less maintenance. This mechanism can be further improved upon to achieve greater efficiency by adopting a crankshaft flywheel mechanism with multiple pulley arrangement.