Method and apparatus for conversion of movement to electrical energy

Abstract

A method for converting useful movement into electrical energy includes moving a structure against a surface thereby generating a force against a material integrated into the structure, deforming the material in response to the force to thereby generate electrical energy from the material, and harvesting the electrical energy. An apparatus for converting useful movement into electrical energy includes a smart material adapted to produce electrical energy when a force against the smart material is applied, and a plurality of coils in contact with the smart material for harvesting the electrical energy.

Description

PRIORITY STATEMENT [0001] This application is a Continuation-in-part of and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 736,352 filed Dec. 15, 2003, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to energy conversion. More specifically, although not exclusively, the present invention relates to a converting movement associated with a structure, such as a tire or boot, into electrical energy. The electrical energy can then be stored or otherwise used. [0003] Although not the only application to the present invention, one aspect of the invention relates to problems associated with electric powered cars. Different approaches to the problem have been attempted, but significant problems remain, including lack of suitable light for solar cars, lack of cost effectiveness, and lack of efficiency. [0004] Another problem addressed by the present invention relates to the use of piezoelectric sensors. Although piezoel...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0005] Therefore, it is a primary objective, feature, or advantage of the present invention to provide a method and apparatus for converting useful movement of a structure into electrical energy.

[0006] It is further objective, feature, or advantage of the present invention to provide a method and apparatus for converting useful movement of a structure into electrical energy that is economical and efficient.

[0007] It is a still further objective, feature, or advantage of the present invention to provide a method and apparatus for converting movement of a structure into electrical energy that does not require piezoelectric elements.

[0008] These and / or other objectives, features, or advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the specification and claims that follow. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The present invention relates to the generation of electrical energy from mechanical movement. According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for providing movement of a structure is disclosed. The method includes moving a structure to generate a force against a material. In one embodiment, the material includes one or more layers and one or more voids between the layers. The force causes a reduction of the thickness of the material and generates a resulting charge. The charge is then used to power subsequent movement of the structure. The material is preferably made of a polyolefin layered material or other appropriate electromechanical film. The material can be a fabric material. According to another aspect of the present invention, the structure can be a tire. The tire can be made of radial plys and the material can be integrated between the radial plys.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for converting movement against a surface into electrical energy is disclosed. The apparatus includes a tire body, the tire body having an outer wall for contact with the surface and opposite side walls. The tire body includes a plurality of radial plys. There is at least one pad integrated between the radial plys.

Problems solved by technology

Different approaches to the problem have been attempted, but significant problems remain, including lack of suitable light for solar cars, lack of cost effectiveness, and lack of efficiency.

Although piezoelectric sensors have been used in various applications to convert strain into a voltage, there are difficulties in using piezoelectrics in producing electrical energy.

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