Project Outline

1
Biodynamic Energy Generators
Student Charles Meaney Supervisor Brian Lovell
Fixed
Reciprocating
Project Outline The scope of this thesis is the
investigation of the field of biodynamic energy
generators and the ultimate use of the most
promising technique as the basis for a prototype
portable electronic device charger.
Selected Design and Analysis The design selected
for prototyping is a linear reciprocating
electromagnetic device designed to extract
passive biodynamic energy from walking and to
extract more substantial active energy from
hand and arm movement shaking. A large portion of
the thesis is the design and analysis of the
prototype. The mechanical, electrical, and
magnetic systems are all designed and analysed. A
theoretical model is produced with the The
Mathworkss Simulink program.
Copper
Magnet
Biodynamic Energy Survey and Generator
Potential The survey of biodynamic energy sources
conducted concludes that the most abundant
passive sources are everyday leg movement and
body heat, and that the active sources of
Steel
Plastic
Prototype Results and Conclusions Construction of
the prototype is the final exercise of the
thesis. Mild steel is used for the reciprocating
magnetic circuit. Plastic housing holds the fixed
coil, and this housing and the electric circuit
attach to the mobile telephone. The resulting
greatest potential are arm and leg power. An
investigation into energy extraction methods
concludes that mechanical motion is easier to
utilise than heat, and that electromagnetic
induction is the most promising basis for a
biodynamic energy generator.
prototype is heavy, and the level of sustained
active shaking required to partially recharge the
portable electronic is considered excessive.
However, the thesis concludes with some
suggestions to improve the device in terms of
both miniaturisation and power output.