Traffic-Actuated Hydraulic Generator Pad
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for harnessing energy from passing vehicles often require modification or damage to road surfaces and lack efficiency in converting kinetic energy into usable electrical power.
Innovation Solution
A traffic-actuated power generating apparatus that includes a low-pressure fluid supply reservoir, a high-pressure fluid accumulator, and energy collection devices in the form of cylinders with pistons, housed in a pad that can be placed on roadways to convert kinetic energy into pressurized fluid, which drives an electrical generator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If existing technologies are used to harness energy from passing vehicles, then kinetic energy can be converted into usable power, but road surfaces require modification or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a fluid accumulator as an intermediary energy storage device between the vehicle-actuated pump and the electrical generator. The pump converts kinetic energy from passing vehicles into pressurized fluid, which is stored in the accumulator. This intermediary fluid storage system allows energy accumulation over time without requiring continuous vehicle passage, enabling the generator to operate smoothly while eliminating the need for road surface modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs hydraulic principles by using a fluid-based pumping system actuated by vehicle weight. The pump mechanism utilizes the downward force of passing vehicles to pressurize fluid, which is then stored in the accumulator. This hydraulic approach converts mechanical kinetic energy into fluid pressure energy, providing an efficient energy conversion pathway that does not damage road surfaces.
2Use of energy by moving object
If existing pump systems are used, then kinetic energy can be captured, but the conversion efficiency into electrical power is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-pressurizing fluid in the accumulator before electrical generation is needed. The pump system continuously or periodically pressurizes fluid and stores it in the accumulator during periods of vehicle traffic, preparing energy in advance. This allows the electrical generator to operate at optimal efficiency when needed, rather than waiting for vehicle passage to provide immediate power.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid accumulator enables continuous useful action by maintaining a steady supply of pressurized fluid to the electrical generator. Instead of intermittent power generation dependent on vehicle passage frequency, the accumulator ensures continuous fluid flow to the generator, maximizing electrical power output and conversion efficiency throughout operation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If road surface modification is avoided, then minimal disruption to road surfaces is achieved, but energy collection capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing the pump actuator to be directly engaged by passing vehicle wheels without requiring road surface modification. The actuator's contact surface is positioned to be struck by vehicle tires, allowing the vehicle's own weight and motion to automatically activate the pumping mechanism. This self-actuating design eliminates the need for embedded road infrastructure while maintaining effective energy collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional road surface embedding to a three-dimensional above-surface mounting approach. The pump and actuator assembly is positioned above the road surface rather than being embedded within it, allowing vehicle wheels to strike the actuator from above. This dimensional change enables energy collection without road modification, as the energy collection device occupies vertical space rather than horizontal road area.
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
The apparatus efficiently converts kinetic energy from passing vehicles into electrical power with minimal disruption to road surfaces, providing a sustainable and efficient method for generating electricity.
Implementation Method 1
pump fluid from the reservoir to the accumulator upon actuation
Implementation Method 2
the weight of a vehicle in passing thereof affects a displacement of the fluid therein
Implementation Method 3
an electrical power generator driven by fluid from the accumulator
Data Source
AI summary
A traffic-actuated power generating apparatus includes a low pressure fluid supply reservoir, a high pressure fluid accumulator, and at least one energy collection device positioned in the path of oncoming traffic to be actuated thereby and pump fluid from the reservoir to the accumulator upon actuation. The energy collection device can be housed in a pad adapted to rest on a traffic-conveying surface, and fluid from the accumulator can be used to drive an electrical power generator.