Citation

Thong, Li Wah and Tan, Robin and Lim, Sin Ting (2024) Optimizing Energy Harvesting in Footwear: an Analysis Into Foot Pressure Distribution Mechanisms. In: 2024 Multimedia University Engineering Conference (MECON), 23-25 July 2024, Cyberjaya, Malaysia.

Text Optimizing Energy Harvesting in Footwear_ an Analysis Into Foot Pressure Distribution Mechanisms.pdf - Published Version Restricted to Repository staff only Download (500kB)

Abstract

The core of designing effective piezoelectric footwear hinges on a thorough understanding and identification of the zones within the shoe that experience the highest pressure during the act of walking or running. These high-pressure areas are where the piezoelectric materials can be most effective, as the increased mechanical stress translates to greater electrical charge generation. Consequently, the focus of this research is to perform analysis and pinpoint the foot regions that are instrumental in generating the maximum amount of electricity upon the application of pressure to the shoe's insoles. Our investigative study methodically explores various foot regions for their potential in electricity generation, with a keen emphasis on understanding the dynamics of pressure distribution across the foot. In this research, participants were instructed to step on the shoe insoles equipped with piezoelectric disks, performing three distinct steps on each disk segment to ensure comprehensive data collection. Following each step, voltage readings were precisely recorded, capturing the electrical output generated by the piezoelectric material in response to the applied pressure. The results of this comprehensive analysis reveal that the metatarsal and heel regions of the foot stand out as the primary contributors to high voltage production within the shoe. These findings are instrumental in guiding the future design of piezoelectric shoe insoles. By concentrating the placement of piezoelectric materials in these identified regions, the design aims to optimize the energy harvesting capabilities of the footwear. This targeted approach ensures that the energy conversion mechanism within the shoe is not only more efficient but also tailored to harness the natural biomechanical energy of the user, maximizing the potential for electrical energy generation with every step taken.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Piezoelectric
Subjects:	T Technology > TK Electrical engineering. Electronics Nuclear engineering > TK7800-8360 Electronics > TK7871 Electronics--Materials
Divisions:	Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET)
Depositing User:	Ms Nurul Iqtiani Ahmad
Date Deposited:	12 Feb 2025 01:35
Last Modified:	12 Feb 2025 01:35
URII:	http://shdl.mmu.edu.my/id/eprint/13422

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