Buckle-Integrated Power Generation Device for Walking Energy Harvesting

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional human power generation devices have complex structures and require deliberate movements, making them cumbersome and inefficient for generating electrical power, while also contributing to environmental pollution due to battery usage.

Innovation Solution

A bag/pack power generation device with a power generation module and a generator, utilizing the natural up-and-down rhythm of a user's walking to operate the generator, featuring speed-up gear shafts and a rack mechanism integrated into a strap buckle system, allowing effortless and continuous power generation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If a conventional human power generation device is used, then electrical power can be generated through user activity, but the device structure becomes complicated with many constituent parts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical power generationVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the power generation function with the existing bag/pack structure by integrating the generator into the buckle mechanism. The buckle's natural opening and closing movements during walking are directly converted into rotational motion of the generator rotor, eliminating the need for separate activation mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The buckle mechanism serves dual purposes: it functions as both the fastening mechanism for the bag/pack and as the activation mechanism for power generation. The same mechanical components that secure the bag also drive the generator through their natural opening/closing cycles during user movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Power

If a conventional human power generation device is used, then power generation is achieved, but deliberate purposed movement such as swing, contact, and gripping is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical power generationVSAvoidoperation effort
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically generates power through the natural walking rhythm of the user. The generator is positioned and configured so that the normal opening and closing of the buckle during walking automatically rotates the rotor, eliminating the need for the user to perform any deliberate movements or exert additional effort beyond normal walking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanism adapts to the user's natural walking dynamics by converting the rhythmic opening and closing of the buckle into continuous rotational motion. The system is designed to work with the dynamic movements of walking rather than requiring static or deliberate actions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Use of energy by moving object

If batteries or cells are used to power electronic devices, then portable power is provided, but environmental pollution is caused

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveportable power supplyVSAvoidenvironmental pollution
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces chemical energy storage systems (batteries and cells) with a mechanical energy conversion system. The generator converts mechanical energy from walking movements into electrical energy, providing a renewable power source that eliminates the need for disposable or rechargeable batteries, thereby reducing environmental pollution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables continuous, effortless, and resistance-free electrical power generation, charging portable devices or secondary cells, reducing environmental impact by eliminating the need for disposable batteries.

Implementation Method 1

an electromagnetic induction device in which time-variable voltage d is induced by an external time-variable magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

Each speed-up gear shaft comprises a pinion and a gear mounted thereto. The pinion of the first speed-up gear shaft mates the rack. The gear of the first speed-up gear shaft mates the pinion of the second speed-up gear shaft.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGear mechanism: Gear

Data Source

PatentUS7638889B2Bag/pack power generation device
Publication Date: 2009.12.29 YEH MING HSIANG
  • US7638889B2 patent drawing
  • US7638889B2 patent drawing
  • US7638889B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bag/pack power generation device includes a power generation module, a generator, and a bag/pack. The power generation module includes first and second speed-up gear shafts and a rack. Each speed-up gear shaft includes a pinion and a gear mounted thereto. The pinion of the first speed-up gear shaft mates the rack. The gear of the first speed-up gear shaft mates the pinion of the second speed-up gear shaft. The gear of the second speed-up gear shaft is in operative coupling with the generator. The bag/pack has at least one strap comprised of strap segments and a buckle connecting between the strap segments. The buckle includes an outer frame and a central portion. The outer frame has an inner edge forming a toothed section. The central portion is coupled to the first and second speed-up gear shafts and the generator. As such, the power generation device is arranged on the strap and when the bag/pack is subjected to natural moving rhythm, the generator is operated to generate electrical power.