Human Powered Systems

Human kinetic energy can be transfered in a number of ways. Human energy is most commonly used to propel bicycles, but can also be used to generate electricity and power hand-crank tools. Some third world organizations are implementing human powered technologies to generate electricity to power computers and other appliances. The articles on this page are about human kinetic energy and its many uses.

FreePlay: Pedal Generator

has released a human-powered electricity generator for commercial sale. Power is generated by pushing up and down with your foot on a step-action treadle. The

FreeCharge

can be re-charged by any 110v to 240v wall sockets and power input from other sources such as solar and wind. FreeCharge uses a lead acid gel battery which has enough power to jump-start vehicles, boats and many other electric appliances and gadgets. The unit comes with a 7Ah sealed lead acid battery, charge indicator, 3V-12V variable DC output adapter, jumper cables and a 12V cigaretter lighter adapter.

Freeplay Energy’s line of self-sufficient power products.

The green-conscious manufacturer creates gadgets powered by solar, rechargeable and wind-up energy. The net result is guilt-free consumer power consumption and bottom line profit for a company with a noble mandate.

The newly released Weza Portable Energy Source is a foot-powered device that allows individuals to pump out power at a 40-watt clip to charge its own internal battery, which is capable of providing a powerful jolt to car batteries and AC and DC devices. An LED display bar gauges battery and input effort levels, while individuals too lazy to pump can benefit from the device’s ability to work with a wind turbine. Still, part of the fun here is the foot-pumping workout.

And, while it might feel stupid doing such at the side of the road when your car runs out of juice, it beats waiting for roadside assistance.

MEET THE ELF: A PEDAL-POWERED, SOLAR-ELECTRIC HYBRID

Described as the “most efficient vehicle on the planet”, The ELF is a solar and pedal-poweredhybrid tricycle hand-built in the United States by Organic Transit. It is available in one, two and three seater models, and according to their website it gets the equivalent of 1800 miles per gallon! It is legally considered a bicycle, so it can be used on bike paths, parks and sidewalks and requires no gas, license, registration or insurance.

The solar-charged electric motor does not power the vehicle, but rather “assists” your pedalling with a boost of power whenever you need it. The ELF can travel at speeds over 25 mph, and the motor is geared low enough to handle climbing hills with ease. The battery has a range of 16 miles with no pedalling, and 30 miles with pedalling. It takes about 2-3 hours to charge using a normal standard wall outlet. Obviously solar charging times depend on the availability of sunlight. In direct sunlight it can be completely recharged in about 8 hours.

The standard ELF can handle a payload of 350 lbs, including rider. The trike itself weighs between 160-180 lbs depending on accessories. The trikes start at $5495 and a variety of models and accessories are also available. You can even build your own! Obviously at that price, they aren’t for everyone, but for some this could be a very smart transportation solution for those looking to reduce transportation costs in an Eco-friendly way.

SUSTAINABLE DANCE FLOOR

The Sustainable Dance Floor is the world’s first energy dance floor that converts kinetic energy of dancing people to electricity. It’s an innovative experiential marketing tool that engages and energizes people.

This dance floor uses human movement as source of energy. This kinetic energy is converted to electricity which powers the floor’s LED lights. The floor interacts with the public and involves them in an interactive energy experience. The generated electricity can be used to power one of our Energy Plugins, like our digital energy meter, photo application or LED battery. Another possibility is to power your own customized brand experience with the generated electricity on the dance floor.

The Sustainable Dance Floor can be installed in different shapes and for various occasions, worldwide. Projects range from major sports events, festivals, product launches, corporate events and pavilions, to club tours, trade fairs, science centre exhibitions and auto shows. We have a track record of producing brand activations worldwide and worked with many different creative agencies to activate campaigns for many well-known agencies and brands.

How does it work?

The Sustainable Dance Floor modules flex slightly when stepped on. Inside each tile is an electromechanical system, which transforms the small vertical movement produced by dancing people into a rotating movement that drives a generator. Each module by the size of 75x75x20 cm can produce up to 35 watt of sustained output. Between 5-20 Watt per person.