Simply put, you step on a Pavegen tile and it powers a small lithium battery. The energy stored can then be distributed to nearby city-owned infrastructure like street lamps or traffic lights. At least that’s the setup Pavegen is aiming to transform. This might be in a sidewalk near you sooner than you think.
Helmed by this guy named Laurence-Kembell Cook, Pavegen Systems are a small company who want to bring sustainable solutions to a crowded sidewalk somewhere. Thanks to the abundance of (mostly wasted) kinetic energy produced by purposeful everyday footwork, Pavegen tiles absorb countless steps and convert these into a viable power source. Problem is, when pedestrian traffic vanishes at certain hours—like night time for example—what then?
Turns out Pavegen is also designed to store energy. Each tile is made of recycled materials and stainless steel, engineered to be weatherproof as well. They’re also tough enough to withstand lots of pressure. Probably the best place for Pavegen are large metropolitan areas. London and Tokyo come to mind. In fact, Pavegen’s biggest client to date is the upcoming London Olympics. Woah.
How Pavegen Works
The technology behind Pavegen is both innovative and practical. When a person steps on a Pavegen tile, the pressure from their footstep causes the tile to depress slightly. This mechanical movement is then converted into electrical energy through electromagnetic induction. The energy generated is stored in a small lithium battery embedded within the tile. This stored energy can then be used to power various types of city infrastructure, such as street lamps, traffic lights, and even public information displays.
The tiles are designed to be highly durable and can withstand the wear and tear of constant foot traffic. They are also weather-resistant, making them suitable for outdoor use in various climates. The use of recycled materials in the construction of the tiles further enhances their sustainability credentials.
Potential Applications and Future Prospects
The potential applications for Pavegen technology are vast. In addition to powering street lamps and traffic lights, the energy generated by Pavegen tiles could be used to charge electric vehicles, power public Wi-Fi networks, and even provide energy for small businesses. The technology could also be integrated into public transportation systems, such as train stations and bus stops, to provide additional power for lighting and electronic displays.
One of the most exciting prospects for Pavegen is its potential to be used in developing countries. In areas where access to reliable electricity is limited, Pavegen tiles could provide a much-needed source of power. For example, they could be installed in schools and community centers to provide lighting and power for electronic devices. This could have a significant impact on education and quality of life in these areas.
Pavegen has already been installed in several high-profile locations around the world. In addition to the London Olympics, the technology has been used in a number of other projects, including a shopping mall in Australia, a train station in France, and a public square in Washington, D.C. These installations have demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of the technology, paving the way for wider adoption in the future.
Alright, a video!
Okay, let’s have fun. Try naming five walking-intensive, pedestrian-clogged cities where the Pavegen could harvest tons of kinetic energy.
Source Gizmag
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