Draft 1: Research Project (Team KElectric)
Title
Generating renewable energy through kinetic footfall from human traffic, to provide off-grid power for indoor ceiling lights
Background Information
“(Climate change) is one of the gravest challenges facing humankind.” According to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, global warming is a severe problem in Singapore. Approximately 95% of Singapore’s electricity is generated from natural gasses, coal and petroleum. (Electrify 2017) However, these forms of electricity generation produce heat-trapping emissions as a by-product, contributing to the effects of global warming. Therefore it is critical for Singapore government agencies to move towards using alternative sustainable electricity generation methods for their power consumption. This will spearhead the usage of off-grid power sources to meet individual electricity needs, helping wane off usage of conventional power generation. These alternative sustainable energy sources will help in reducing the emission of greenhouse gasses into our atmosphere, and create a better living environment for the future.
Solar power is currently the main source of clean energy in Singapore as there is an average of 2064 hours of sunlight per year. The Singapore government is aiming to increase the solar capacity by more than 7 times by 2030, helping to power 4% of Singapore’s total energy needs (Audrey 2019). However, other forms of common alternative sustainable energy sources have not been as successful in Singapore. One tidal turbine system has been built off Sentosa but the potential of hydroelectricity is not large due to limited coastal spaces. Geothermal energy, although research is being done to harvest its energy from underground, is still far from being implemented in Singapore, while wind energy is difficult to be implemented due to scarcity of land and low wind speeds in Singapore.
However, kinetic footfall is an underutilised energy generation source in Singapore. Kinetic footfall uses the piezoelectric effect to generate electricity. When integrated with a foot tile, pressure applied onto the foot tile from passing pedestrians will create an electric charge, which is then converted into an electric current. The electricity generated can then be stored and used to power low-power electronics such as lights. According to Balch (2012), kinetic footfall tiles were installed along a walkway to the Olympic Park during the 2012 London Olympic. A total of 72 million joules of energy were generated during the two weeks of the Games. The electricity generated was used to power street lamps along the walkway throughout the day and the excess stored as back-up. According to Laris (2016), 194 kinetic footfall tiles have been installed in the Dupont Circle sidewalk and is used to power the lights in the newly constructed miniature park. Energy captured from the footfall of an estimated 10,000 pedestrians daily is able to power lights installed under nearby benches for 6 hours as well as an interactive installation that lights up when the tiles are stepped on.
For kinetic footfall to work efficiently and to its maximum potential, it should be implemented in place where the traffic is very high. This makes it sound like it is a perfect match with Singapore, which is one of the densest countries in the world, having nearly 8000 people per km2, 320 times denser than the average population density in the world. (ourworlddata). Therefore, this can be implemented in the busiest areas of Singapore, such as Changi Airport and the city area. If it succeeds, this can be more widely implemented in Singapore
-Has shown success in previous examples, biggest scale being at the walking route to the Olympic Park in 2012.
-Examples also include a hallway in Heathrow airport and office & shopping centres in London, and all of this were successful, even with less efficient technology. (wired.com). And lastly, this is proven to work, with over 200 places having implemented this technology. (theswitch uk)
-Singapore, being one of the most dense cities in the world, seems like the perfect solution
-Our decision to place it at the checkpoint is because it is consistently one of the most busiest areas in Singapore, with a lot of traffic daily, and most importantly, all of them going through the same area
-Another place where we thought of was the airport, but traffic there is widespread, meaning they are not concentrated in one area like the Singapore-Malaysia checkpoint.
Problem Statement
The ideal situation is where power generation from piezoelectric footsteps technology is implemented in Singapore, through the installation of kinetic footfall tiles in areas with high human traffic. This is to demonstrate the Singapore government’s dedication to work towards implementing sustainable green energy generation methods in Singapore. However, despite the benefits of implementing piezoelectric technology, little effort has been made to bring this technology into Singapore. The goal is for government agencies in Singapore to demonstrate their commitment towards generating green energy by promoting the implementation of piezoelectric technology and kinetic footfall tiles in Singapore.
Purpose Statement
The purpose of this report is to propose to Building and Construction Authority (BCA) on the use of kinetic footfall tiles to power lights in areas and buildings with high human footfall.
Problem Statement
The ideal situation is where power generation from piezoelectric footsteps technology is implemented in Singapore, through the installation of kinetic footfall tiles in areas with high human traffic. This is to demonstrate the Singapore government’s dedication to work towards implementing sustainable green energy generation methods in Singapore. However, despite the benefits of implementing piezoelectric technology, little effort has been made to bring this technology into Singapore. The goal is for government agencies in Singapore to demonstrate their commitment towards generating green energy by promoting the implementation of piezoelectric technology and kinetic footfall tiles in Singapore.
Purpose Statement
The purpose of this report is to propose to Building and Construction Authority (BCA) on the use of kinetic footfall tiles to power lights in areas and buildings with high human footfall.
Proposed solution
What is piezoelectricity and how does it work?
What is piezoelectricity and how does it work?
According to an article, “How Piezoelectricity works” (2016), Piezoelectricity is the process of using crystals to convert mechanical energy (or stress) into electrical energy. These crystals are not symmetrical but exist in an electrically neutral balance. When placed in between two metal plates, the material is in balance and does not generate any electric current. When mechanical pressure is applied , it forces the electric charges out of balance. The excess negative and positive charges will then appear on opposite sides of the crystal face while the metal conducts these charges to produce a voltage and send electrical current through a circuit.
Based on an article, “Piezoelectric Flooring: Harvesting Energy Using Footsteps” (2015), a kinetic footfall tile is made of two metal plates with the piezoelectric crystal in between the two metal plates. When a person steps onto the tile, it will convert the kinetic energy of human movement into mechanical pressure, compressing the crystal material to conduct electricity. This electricity is linked by wires to either capacitors or batteries to store the electrical energy which would later be used for other purposes such as powering the lights and charging phones with a flip of a switch. The amount of energy generated depends upon the weight of the person, maximum deflection and type of movement.
The electrical energy produced by the crystals is alternating. To use this alternating energy in our applications, it will have to be converted into direct current (DC) by using rectifiers. Although some electrical energy will be lost in the process of converting this into DC power, it could be alleviated by using voltage boosters or rectifier bridges.
The tile (about 30 by 30 cm long and 5cm thick) will be installed on the floor in an alternating pattern. This is to cut the number of tiles needed while ensuring the maximum output could be derived. The wiring of the kinetic foot tile will be connected to the main circuit board that controls the power which with a flick of a switch, will use the electricity generated from the tiles over a period of time instead of the main power supply line. This, however, means that there would be additional cost in removing existing floor tiles, and installing and wiring the kinetic foot tile to the main circuit board. These tiles could be implemented into future infrastructures and contribute to the building’s energy consumption and generation.
Case Study
A possible location to implement kinetic footfall tiles in Singapore is at the Woodlands departure immigration building between Singapore and Malaysia.
Every day, an average of 295,731 people walk between Malaysia and Singapore (Puteri 2016). By installing kinetic footfall tiles within the facility, the pressure generated from commuters walking over these tiles, located in the immigration building, will be converted into electrical energy to power the compound’s ceiling lights. This kinetic footfall tile will not only serve as a comfortable surface for travellers to walk upon, it will also convert the otherwise wasted energy generated from walking, into a viable source of green energy to power the surrounding environment.
Kinetic footfall tile can be implemented at two locations within the building:
Case Study
A possible location to implement kinetic footfall tiles in Singapore is at the Woodlands departure immigration building between Singapore and Malaysia.
Every day, an average of 295,731 people walk between Malaysia and Singapore (Puteri 2016). By installing kinetic footfall tiles within the facility, the pressure generated from commuters walking over these tiles, located in the immigration building, will be converted into electrical energy to power the compound’s ceiling lights. This kinetic footfall tile will not only serve as a comfortable surface for travellers to walk upon, it will also convert the otherwise wasted energy generated from walking, into a viable source of green energy to power the surrounding environment.
Kinetic footfall tile can be implemented at two locations within the building:
Entry of Singapore - Malaysia Departure Immigration Building
As there is only one entrance door leading into the building, all commuters are funnelled through the doorway in order to enter the facility. Therefore, installing kinetic footfall tiles down the length of the doorway will allow for maximised efficiency in capturing the kinetic energy generated from human footfall.
Exit of Singapore - Malaysia Departure Immigration Building
Tiles can be placed at the exit of the departure hall in the ICA building. It is after the area where the passports are stamped, where people are funneled to walk through a snaky pathway towards the exit door.
The tiles should be placed in a checkered manner, so it is cost saving, as it doesn't have to be installed at the whole pathway. Even with thus, it will still be able to capture the kinetic footfall of most of the people. The sides can also be saved from installing the tiles too, as the majority of people walking will walk through the middle. However, the gap at the sides should not be too big to not capture some people’s footsteps.This will help to save maximum costs on spaces where people might not be step on as much, such as the sides.
Benefits
Reputation
Kinetic floor tiles are presently not used as one of Singapore’s alternative source of energy. According to “CNN travel”, Senthilingam (2016) quoted that Singapore is the greenest city in Asia. Implementing this kinetic footfall technology in Singapore will not only benefit the environment, it will also suggest that Singapore is living up to its reputation. The action of utilizing it leaves an impression on the world that Singapore is taking efforts to reduce carbon footprint, hence boosting the reputation of Singapore. Places that are partially powered by kinetic floor tiles will gain popularity too as it is a new technology in Singapore. The business around the locations that have kinetic floor tiles will benefit as locals or tourists will be attracted by the new features.
Cost saving & Energy Saving
According to the article “Energy Harvesting: Pavegen and the Rise of Kinetic Tile Tech”, kinetic floor tiles generate between 2 and 8 watts over the duration of the footstep. By implementing this technology in locations that are crowded, it can generate a tremendous amount of energy that can be used to power street lights, sensors or any other off-grid appliances. The idea of using energies generated by human movements aim to reduce energy that produces from earth’s natural resources. The location is an important factor in ensuring that the technology is fully utilized and performing at its utmost potential. Users will certainly benefit from kinetic foot floor tiles as some of the energy is supplied by it, reducing the reliance of energy from SPgroup (Singapore Power group) and when users rely less energy from SPgroup, the cost of the electricity bill reduces. Although the difference may appear to be insignificant during the first few months, users will see a huge difference in long-term run. According to the website “Ovo energy”, (Author) claims that during the London 2012 Summer Olympics, Pavegen installed 12 tiles along the walking route to Olympic Park and the tiles generated 72 million joules of energy during the whole course of event. The generated energy was used to power the lights in the streets for 5 hours each night.
Provides Real-time data for the target location
According to the website Pavegen, the installation of the tiles provides communities with anonymous footfall and movement data, with the built-in Bluetooth beacon. Through the movement data, operators can estimate the crowd numbers and provide better service for travelers. Travelers can also utilize the data to plan their journey to prevent congestion. This would also be useful for places such as shopping malls and entertainment services, (example where they could track the busiest times and the routes mostly used), and this can help them to make smarter business decisions.
Provides Real-time data for the target location
According to the website Pavegen, the installation of the tiles provides communities with anonymous footfall and movement data, with the built-in Bluetooth beacon. Through the movement data, operators can estimate the crowd numbers and provide better service for travelers. Travelers can also utilize the data to plan their journey to prevent congestion. This would also be useful for places such as shopping malls and entertainment services, (example where they could track the busiest times and the routes mostly used), and this can help them to make smarter business decisions.
A feasible new source of energy in Singapore
According to the article “Energy Harvesting Technology : Kinetic Footfall”, (Author) states that the process of harnessing and generating energy from kinetic footfall emits no pollutants. The device does not require an external source of energy to run the system as 5% of the energy generated will power the device itself and the remaining 95% is stored in a battery for other purposes. According to National Geographic, Grose (2012) claims that the rubber on the surface of the tiles are made of recycled truck tires, and 80% of the polymers used for other components can be recycled. Unlike conventional tiles, kinetic footfall tiles not only serve the purpose as a walkway for pedestrians, it also produces sustainable energy from these pedestrians. Compared to other forms of energy harvesting technology, for example, solar energy and wind energy, kinetic footfall converts energy input from external factors more efficiently into clean and usable energy because this energy generating system does not depend on uncontrollable factors such as weather to produce energy. It also requires less operational area for electricity generation compared to solar and wind energy. On the other hand, it is another energy source which humans can depend on rather than continuing to deplete earth’s natural resources. Although the impact may be insignificant but with advancement of technologies, who knows this technology would be the answer to a sustainable future.
For existing buildings
-It is definitely viable because there are areas in Singapore where traffic is very high and concentrated. Singapore is also not short on money, so they have room to invest in this technology to see if it would work. Also, the space and storage for energy required is very little and in a land-scarce country, where everything is very compact, this is a great option.
-There is also definitely desirability. This can potentially be a new clean source of energy which Singapore could use if it turns out to be successful. The Singapore government has also been trying to cut down the country’s carbon emissions, and this can be a valuable asset in helping them.
-This is a sustainable option. There are no carbon emissions and use of natural resources, It is made from 95% recycled tyres. And extra clean energy is made out of entirely just kinetic footfall.
For future buildings
-They are more feasible. No demolition works , which will incur costs, have to be done. Plans can be made to even accommodate the tiles, such as even changing the floorplan, which is impossible for an existing building without having to go through a complete renovation. Kinetic floor tiles require only a small operational area for it to generate electricity, which make it an ideal technology to be implemented in Singapore.
-In terms of viability, the tiles are durable and are made to withstand human footfall. It also requires low maintenance.
-There will also be desirability in the long term as the price of tiles have been dropping and are soon capable of reaching a very affordable price. Managements in areas with very high human flow will be more interested in implementing these tiles due to the costs they may save by generating their own clean energy.
-For sustainability, the materials of the tiles can mostly be recycled. The building will also be able to cut down their carbon footprint by generating their own clean electricity.
- It is also very durable. It should be able to withstand a lot of traffic and not have to go through as much maintenance compared to if it was flimsy.
- It is sustainable as the materials used in kinetic floor tiles can be recycled
Evaluation
Challenges logically anticipated, and response to it
-Maintenance: If maintenance was to be done, it will cause a disruption to the flow of traffic. There should be another way for commuters to walk through when one area is needed to be maintained. Creator also says that they have tiles currently running nonstop for 4 years too, which shows they are very durable and hence, maintenance will not be a common occurrence.
-Cost: They definitely cost more than normal floor tiles, and more expensive than solar panels, so this is an investment . Therefore, in the long run, it will save ICA on the cost of electricity, as the energy is planned to be used to mainly power the lights in that area of the ICA building. Previous examples done in the world have shown that power generated from it is able to power the area in which it is installed, and still have plenty of spare energy to be used elsewhere. Although it is going to cost more than the money made from energy savings, it being placed in a very high traffic area should be possible.
Complains : Stepping on these special tiles will not feel exactly the same as if you were walking on normal tiles. These might result in some complaints from fussy commuters. However, the creator says it just feels like walking in a children’s play-area or an athletic track , and maybe commuters should know that these tiles can create clean energy from them just walking on it, so they know the benefits to it.
-(existing building)It is not very feasible because the flooring would have to be changed, and wiring of the tiles have to be done, and depending on how many special tiles are to be placed, it might seriously affect the workflow and environment. Extra money is also used to demolish the current tiles, making it a more costly process overall.
-(future building)However, they might not be as viable either. For new buildings, there are no records or information of human traffic in the building which can definitely be a problem. It would be a waste if an area installed with the special tiles did not have the same projected human traffic as expected.
Methodology
Secondary research
(Background info, Case Study)
https://www.itproportal.com/2012/07/20/power-generating-tiles-light-olympic-walkway-using-footsteps/
(Proposed Solution)
(Evaluation)
(Benefits)
https://www.engineering.pitt.edu/First-Year/First-Year-Conference/_Library/Viduya-Xue-Carpe/
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/news/energy/2012/05/120518-floor-tiles-turn-footfalls-to-electricity/
Concluding statement
The aim of this is to help the consumer to reduce their electric consumption by generating their own source of clean energy with kinetic footfall, and cut down on their carbon emissions. This will also help to test out this technology in Singapore to see if it is a feasible solution to implement in other parts of Singapore, which would help complement Singapore’s efforts to tackle global warming.
The limitations of this, firstly, has been the cost. However, the cost has been decreasing at a rate where very soon, it should have gone down enough for it to be a feasible idea to be implemented. Maintaining the tiles is another problem. For existing buildings, tiles have to be replaced which would give them the additional task of maintaining their new tiles when it was once not a problem. However, this would benefit them in the long term as it will help to test run this technology to see if it is feasible for more areas in Singapore, while it will help to save energy costs
For significance and usefulness of the work, we hope that this will be successfully implemented in an area where it is deemed to be ideal. With this, more areas will definitely follow suite and implement this technology. Hopefully, the government will find this as a good idea and implement it at more ideal areas with their own funding so it will help them in mitigating the risks of Global warming to Singapore.
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