Energy Harvesting from the Biomechanical Movements of Human Body

Energy Harvesting from the Biomechanical Movements of Human Body

Kaptı, Akın Oğuz
Soydan, Yavuz

In this presentation, the subject of biomechanical energy harvesting, and the studies performed in this field are introduced. Currently used lower limb prostheses manufactured with modular components cannot properly provide the expected functions and the needs of daily living activities due to their passive structure. Although substantial effort has been made in the field of developing active prostheses, these devices have not adequately become widespread because of the necessity of carrying large and heavy batteries which must have been charged frequently. Therefore, some studies have been performed in order to generate energy by utilizing the biomechanical movements of the human body, such as a mechanism converting the mechanical energy from the vertical movement of carried suspended-load in backpack to electricity, and an energy harvester mounted at the knee joint which generates electricity, during human walking. To meet a portion of the energy requirement for amputees wearing the active lower limb prosthesis, and for individuals having high electricity demands in rural areas are aimed with the harvested energy.

Conference or Workshop Item
PeerReviewed

2010-06

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