Development and Characterization of Energy Harvester using Electromagnetic Linear Generators in Bicycle Shock Absorbers

With the promise of having the least carbon footprint, as well as the capability to reach remote places. Several technologies offer ways to harness energy for supplementing the need of energy in some auxiliary devices of bicycles such as lights and horns, however several points where force is applied, having the potential of generating energy, is left untapped. The researchers proposed the characterization and fabrication of an energy harvesting device using a linear electromagnetic generator attached inside the suspension system of a mountain bicycle. The generators were placed on the shock absorber supporting the frame from the rear end, and another one attached on the fork of the steering sector of the bicycle. Experimentation was conducted within 10 kilometers of travel through a smooth and a rough pavement, maintained with a 20kph speed, 0.091Wh – 1.039Wh of energy in smooth terrain and 0.477Wh – 1.241 Wh in rough terrain respectively, The suspension system was also validated to withstand rider weights of up to 77kg within the recommended sag percentage – proving its proposition to be a prospect of supplying electricity to power banks while being utilized as a suspension system within the rider’s comfort. The prototype is anticipated to bring an impact as an effective power source for charging or supplying devices such as lights, horns, as well as GPS devices and cellular devices.