PowerStride

Inspiration

Our inspiration for PowerStride came from the desire to merge health with sustainability. We wanted to create a device that not only encourages physical activity but also contributes positively to the environment by generating clean energy.

What it does

PowerStride is a wearable device that converts the kinetic energy from walking or running into electrical power. This energy can then be used to charge mobile devices or even be sold back, providing a financial incentive for staying active and eco-friendly.

How I built it

I built PowerStride using an Arduino for the central control unit, integrating it with a kinetic energy generator and a boost converter for voltage regulation. The energy is stored in a battery unit, with the Arduino managing the charging process and monitoring the battery's voltage to ensure optimal charging conditions.

Challenges I ran into

The biggest challenges were ensuring consistent energy conversion from variable kinetic motion and designing a user-friendly interface that accurately reflects energy generation and storage data. Achieving a balance between a compact design and efficient energy storage also posed a significant challenge.

Accomplishments that I'm proud of

I am proud of developing a fully functional prototype that not only works as intended but also won the second prize at the MakeHarvard Makeathon 2024. It was gratifying to see our concept of sustainable energy generation through human activity come to fruition.

What I learned

This project deepened my knowledge of energy systems, embedded programming, and electronic circuit design. I learned the intricacies of power management and the importance of user experience in the design of wearable technology.

What's next for PowerStride

The next steps for PowerStride include refining the design for mass production, enhancing the efficiency of the energy harvesting process, and developing a companion app for users to track their energy production and consumption in real-time.

Built With

• arduino
• battery
• connectingwires
• kneepad
• wires