This is a proposal to exploit an innovative piezoelectric generator invented by the program manager, Glen A. Robertson, to generate several watts of electrical power under the conditions of interest. A proof-of-concept piezoelectric generator was demonstrated by the principle investigator, Gene Young, in 2000. The proof-of-concept generator was not efficiently designed, but clearly demonstrated its technical merit by powering a nine (9) volt radio. Modifying the proof-of-concept design to exploit the oscillating forces between human and backpack that occur naturally during walking will provide the incremental step needed toward the "Harvesting of Electrical Power from Walking." It is also believed that an overall system design can be developed that will optimize backpack suspension for human load carrying efficiency using reported methods modified as found beneficial during this investigation. Dr. James Blackmon, who has experience with a "wearable computer" developed under a multi-year DARPA contract, will work to best integrate the generator system into the backpack harness. It is believed that the total generator parasitic weight will be a modest fraction of the common 50 lb backpack harness worn by personnel in combat. This can be accomplished though the use of a few pounds of piezoelectric material, together with a small amount of fiber reinforced plastic, in lieu of, the heavier metallic components required for magnetic generator systems. Cecil Stokes will guide structural design based on his experience in developing lightweight low-cost composites for tactical weapons applications as well as manufacturing management and quality control pertinent to later phases.
Benefits: At completion of this effort, we will have developed a preliminary piezoelectric generator system design and conducted a breadboard level demonstration with representative components for electrical power generation, power conditioning and energy storage. Further, the design of an oscillation mechanism to bend the piezoelectric elements will be demonstrated with a backpack harness layout. Together these will determine the piezoelectric generator's useable power output after power conditioning and energy storage and the feasibility of integrating this into a 50 lb backpack configuration. The potential government applications involve the use of the generator/backpack harness system by personnel (such as combat units) operating on foot in remote regions, where they are highly dependent on electrical energy for communications (cell phones), navigation (GPS) and sensing (telemetry systems). The potential commercial applications involve such groups as hikers, surveyors, foresters, and other groups involved in remote outdoor activities where general (or emergency) electrical power for cell phones, GPS and other telemetry devices are needed. Other commercial markets for the piezoelectric generator could include the auto industry for the creation of electrical power from road vibrations and the power industry for the creation of electrical power from wind or water vibrations. Mr. Stokes' business education and industrial experience, together with Dr. Blackmon's considerable background in executive management of advanced products for McDonnell Douglas and Boeing provide a foundation for success in commercialization of this device
