Bidirectional energy harvesting floor with magnetic suspension for self-powered traffic management

Harvesting energy from roads, plazas and other urban spaces to power devices in these regions offers significant environmental benefits, particularly for low-power applications. This study presents a novel bidirectional energy harvesting floor with magnetic suspension (BEHF-MS), designed to maximize mechanical impact energy capture and enhance electrical output for immediate usage. The system converts pedestrian excitation into a steady, unidirectional rotation of a magnetically suspended wheel, while its resetting mechanism ensures continuous motion in the same direction. Rotational kinetic energy is then converted into electricity via electromagnetic induction, using permanent magnets and stationary coils. A dynamic model was developed and experimentally validated, incorporating the dynamic equation of the end gear in the energy conversion module, the rotational dynamics of the flywheel disc in the energy harvesting module, and electromagnetic induction principles. The voltage frequency increases with the number of permanent magnets on the flywheel disc. Higher spring stiffness reduces the BEHF-MS's maximum harvested voltage and power, while increased excitation stroke length enhances both. Under single excitation, the BEHF-MS achieves a peak output of 23.60 V, with output duration rising alongside stroke length and pedestrian body weight. Prototype testing demonstrated that a single individual could power 20 LED bulbs (1 W each) for approximately 14 s. Real-world scenario applications, including a self-powered pedestrian crosswalk warning system, highlight the system's potential to enhance urban safety and sustainability. The results indicate that the BEHF-MS is a promising, eco-friendly energy solution for smart cities and transportation infrastructure.