Design and analysis of the road energy harvester with an elastic element

This study introduces the integration of an elastic component into a speed bump-type energy harvester designed to generate power from the pressure exerted by passing vehicles. The research begins by presenting a passively actuated speed bump design, which serves as the input mechanism for the harvester and fully lowers when vehicles travel below a specific speed. Subsequently, a design equation integrating the elastic element into the energy harvester is formulated. Numerical simulations and experimental testing were conducted to evaluate the effects of the elastic element on the harvester's performance. The results demonstrate that the elastic component can extend the duration of power generation, although it may reduce the peak power output. Additionally, the elastic element was found to reduce stress on the harvester's transmission components, thereby improving its durability. These enhancements suggest that the elastic element could increase the viability of speed bump energy harvesters, particularly those employing electromagnetic induction, for practical road applications.