Smart Energy Harvesting System Converts Human Footsteps into Electrical Power

Students Shripada Rao, Sathwik, Shreesha, and Shrikrishna Hebbar from the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering at Shri Madhwa Vadiraja Institute of Technology and Management (SMVITM), Bantakal, under the guidance of Ms. Akshatha Rao L and Dr. Ganesh Srinivasa Shetty, have successfully developed an innovative Smart Footstep-Based Energy Harvesting System that generates electrical power from human footsteps.

The project aims to utilize everyday human movement as a renewable energy source, contributing to sustainable energy solutions and the development of smart infrastructure. The project received sponsorship from the Karnataka State Council for Science and Technology (KSCST) and was successfully demonstrated as part of the students’ research and innovation activities.

The developed system converts the mechanical pressure generated during walking into electrical energy, which can be stored and utilized for various low-power applications. To enhance energy generation efficiency, the system incorporates piezoelectric sensors that produce additional electrical power when subjected to pressure.

The technology offers significant potential for deployment in high-footfall areas such as railway stations, bus terminals, shopping malls, educational institutions, staircases, and pedestrian walkways. The harvested energy can be utilized to power IoT devices, smart sensors, emergency lighting systems, and other low-power electronic equipment, thereby improving energy efficiency in public spaces.

This project highlights the innovative capabilities of SMVITM students in developing sustainable and practical engineering solutions that address contemporary energy challenges while promoting the adoption of renewable energy technologies.