Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a piezoelectric energy harvesting system for roads that converts kinetic energy from vehicular movement into electrical power for operating road infrastructure, in view of collecting and transmitting traffic and road condition data for city and transportation management applications.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The increasing global demand for energy, coupled with the growing need for sustainable infrastructure, has led to the exploration of alternative sources of energy. Piezoelectric materials have the ability to generate electricity when subjected to pressure or vibrations, making them suitable for embedding in road surfaces where vehicle-induced loads are frequent and consistent. However, conventional approaches often fail to integrate real-time monitoring of road conditions or efficient energy storage, limiting their usefulness for infrastructure applications.

[0003] Traditional methods for powering road infrastructure, such as traffic lights, streetlamps, and monitoring devices, primarily rely on grid electricity or standalone solar systems. These setups often require extensive cabling, regular maintenance, and are vulnerable to power outages or weather-related inefficiencies. However, many existing solutions rely on external power sources or centralized control, making them less suitable for scalable deployment.

[0004] CA2715129A1 discloses a device, apparatus, system, and method for power harvesting from roads, highways and airport runways using piezoelectric generator. Preferably, the power generators comprise a plurality of piezoelectric rods embedded in a matrix such as a binder.
Preferably, electric power is produced when piezoelectric rods within the piezoelectric devices are compressed due to the weight of the passing vehicle. The invention provides a system for power harvesting comprising a plurality of piezoelectric devices embedded in a road or a runway and configured to produce electrical power when a vehicle traverses their locations. The system includes a power conditioning unit and electrical conductors connecting said piezoelectric devices to the power conditioning unit. Harvested energy may be used locally in proximity to the energy generation location, stored for later use, or transferred to be used in remote location.

[0005] US20050127677A1 discloses a process for generating electricity from vehicular traffic includes distributing a plurality of piezoelectric elements no higher than an adjacent surface of a roadway. Electric current is generated as traffic passes over the roadway, and the electric current conducted away from the piezoelectric elements to provide the electrical current for consumption.

[0006] Conventionally, many systems designed for road-based energy harvesting lack modularity, adaptability to existing infrastructure, and real-time data communication. However, these existing systems often do not optimize the energy output or efficiently manage the distribution of harvested power to road infrastructure components such as streetlights, traffic signals, and sensors.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that requires to be capable for roads that not only converts vehicular pressure into electrical energy but also integrates real-time communication, energy storage and distribution to enhance the sustainability and intelligence of urban road networks.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of harvesting energy from road traffic, thereby enabling sustainable power generation for road infrastructure.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of collecting real-time traffic and road condition data to enhance traffic monitoring and urban planning.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of optimizing traffic flow and reducing congestion.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of ensuring uninterrupted operation regarding road systems even during low-traffic periods.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of supporting predictive maintenance and improve roadway safety.

[0014] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of maximizing energy efficiency based on real-time traffic flow and infrastructure demand.

[0015] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The present invention relates to a piezoelectric energy harvesting system for roads that automatically generates electrical energy from vehicular movement, stores and distributes this energy to road infrastructure, thereby enabling sustainable energy use, intelligent traffic management, and proactive road maintenance in city applications.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a piezoelectric energy harvesting system for roads comprises of a plurality of piezoelectric sensors embedded in a road surface, connected to an energy harvesting unit, which converts mechanical pressure from vehicle traffic into electrical power to supply streetlights and includes high-efficiency piezoelectric nanomaterials, connected to a power converter, to increase electrical output from vehicle pressure, an IoT-based communication module linked to road-embedded sensors and sensing module and wirelessly connected to a central traffic management unit, to wirelessly send traffic and road condition data to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the system further includes a vibration detector, connected to the IoT-based communication module, to predict road maintenance needs, wireless protocols connected to a cloud-based processing unit, to analyze traffic data to adjust traffic signals, a local energy storage unit with connected to piezoelectric sensors, to store and distribute electrical power to operate road infrastructure equipment, an AI-driven power distribution module, connected to road infrastructure, to optimize power allocation and modular units to enable integration into current infrastructure.

[0019] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates a flow chart of a piezoelectric energy harvesting system for roads.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0022] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0023] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0024] The present invention relates to a piezoelectric energy harvesting system for roads, while projecting real-time data to connected infrastructure for adjusting traffic signals and predicting maintenance needs, thereby enhancing operational safety, minimizing infrastructure degradation, and ensuring timely interventions.

[0025] Referring to Figure 1, a flow chart of a piezoelectric energy harvesting system for roads is illustrated.

[0026] The system disclosed herein includes an energy harvesting unit that includes piezoelectric nanomaterials that are embedded within or integrated with the road surface. These nanomaterials are engineered to exhibit improved electromechanical conversion efficiency compared to traditional piezoelectric materials. When vehicle wheels apply pressure to the road, the nanomaterials experience mechanical deformation, producing an electrical charge due to the piezoelectric effect.

[0027] To generate electrical charge a plurality of piezoelectric sensors is configured with the energy harvesting unit embedded beneath the road surface at regular intervals. These piezoelectric sensors are made of piezoelectric materials, which have the inherent property of generating an electrical charge in response to mechanical stress. As vehicles pass over the road, the weight and motion apply pressure to the surface, which is transferred to the underlying piezoelectric sensors. This mechanical pressure causes the crystal structure within the piezoelectric material to deform slightly, generating an electric charge through the piezoelectric effect.

[0028] This electrical output is harvested and routed to a connected energy harvesting unit, which converts the raw electrical energy into usable power. The converted electrical energy is then used to power nearby infrastructure components such as streetlights, traffic signals, or road signage, thereby enabling localized energy self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on the central power grid.

[0029] The electrical charge generated is often in the form of low-voltage, irregular pulses. To make this energy usable, the output from the nanomaterials is fed into a power converter connected to the energy harvesting unit. The power converter disclosed herein functions by transforming electrical power from one form to another, such as converting AC to DC or DC to AC, or changing the voltage or frequency, converting it into a consistent voltage level suitable for storage or direct usage.

[0030] A sensing module is integrated into the road surface serving the purpose of collecting real-time data related to traffic activity and pavement conditions. The collected signals from these sensors are transmitted to a local processing unit where the data is converted into digital form and filtered to remove noise or outliers. The processed data is then used to evaluate traffic density, detect anomalies such as potholes or surface wear, and monitor traffic flow trends.

[0031] The sensing module, which includes but is not limited to radar guns, magnetic sensors, and accelerometers, functions as a comprehensive data acquisition unit embedded within the road infrastructure. Each sensor type performs a specific role to capture dynamic traffic and structural parameters. Radar guns emit microwave signals and measure the frequency shift caused by moving vehicles (Doppler effect) which is directly proportional to the speed of the vehicles, allowing the module to continuously calculate traffic speed in real-time.

[0032] Magnetic sensors detect disturbances in the earth’s magnetic field caused by the presence of metal objects like vehicles. As a vehicle passes over, the magnetic sensor registers its presence, enabling vehicle counting, classification (based on size and magnetic signature), and estimation of traffic density.

[0033] Accelerometers measure vertical vibrations and dynamic forces on the road surface induced by moving vehicles. These readings help in assessing vehicle load impact and in identifying surface irregularities or potential road degradation.

[0034] The output generated from all the above mentioned sensors are fed to an embedded processing unit that digitizes, and analyzes these signals. The combined data is relayed to traffic control centers or cloud-based platforms via an IoT-based communication module.

[0035] The IoT-based communication module, linked to the road-embedded sensors and the sensing module, serves as a wireless data transmission interface that enables real-time communication between the road infrastructure and a central traffic management unit. The IoT communication module receives continuous streams of data from the radar guns, magnetic sensors, accelerometers, and other embedded sensing devices. This data also includes metrics such as vehicle count, speed, type, road surface vibration, and detected anomalies.

[0036] Once the data collected, the module packages this information into structured packets and transmits them wirelessly using standardized communication protocols such as LoRaWAN, NB-IoT, ZigBee, or 5G, depending on deployment conditions. These protocols are chosen for their low power consumption and high data reliability.

[0037] The transmitted data is received by a central traffic management unit, which is a cloud-based system capable of analyzing the incoming information in real time. Based on the analysis, the central traffic management unit make decisions to optimize traffic flow, by adjusting the timing of traffic lights, diverting traffic in high-density areas, or issuing alerts about hazardous road conditions.

[0038] A vibration detector, connected to the IoT-based communication module is embedded within or just below the road surface and is configured to sense ground motion caused by passing vehicles. These vibrations vary based on vehicle weight, speed, suspension, and the condition of the pavement. As vehicles pass over, the vibration detector records high-resolution vibration signatures. When the pavement is in good condition, vibrations fall within predictable thresholds. The vibration detector transmits these vibration readings to the IoT-based communication module, which is further transferred to the central traffic or infrastructure management unit.

[0039] The IoT communication module employs wireless protocols such as Wi-Fi, to establish reliable connectivity between the road-embedded sensors, sensing modules, and cloud-based processing unit. Data collected from various sensors is transmitted wirelessly by the IoT communication module to the cloud-based processing unit.

[0040] Machine learning models running on the cloud platform analyze the incoming data to detect traffic patterns, congestion, and potential hazards. Based on this analysis, the system determines optimal timings and sequences for traffic signals to improve traffic flow and enhance road safety. The IoT communication module then sends these optimized traffic signal commands back to the respective traffic light controllers through wireless communication channels, allowing adjustment of signal phases in real time.

[0041] A local energy storage unit, comprising batteries, is connected to the piezoelectric sensors embedded in the road surface. The local energy storage unit is designed to store the electrical energy generated by these sensors when mechanical pressure from passing vehicles is converted into electrical power. The local energy storage unit disclosed herein works by the continuous collection of electrical charge produced by the piezoelectric sensors during vehicle traffic. The harvested energy is directed to the storage unit, where it is accumulated and maintained at an optimal level.

[0042] Batteries in the local energy storage unit provide a steady and reliable power source over longer durations, while super capacitors enable rapid charge and discharge cycles, making them suitable for handling short bursts of energy demand. The stored energy is then efficiently distributed to operate various road infrastructure components, such as streetlights, traffic signals, and sensors, ensuring their continuous functioning even during periods of low traffic or when immediate energy generation is insufficient.

[0043] Further the local energy storage unit is linked to an AI-driven power distribution module that manages the allocation of stored electrical energy to various road infrastructure components such as streetlights, traffic signals, and sensors. The AI-driven power distribution module continuously monitors real-time data on vehicle flow and overall energy demand collected from embedded sensors and the sensing module.

[0044] Using several protocols, the AI-driven module analyzes traffic patterns and energy consumption trends to predict power requirements. Based on this analysis, the AI-driven power distribution module optimizes power distribution by prioritizing infrastructure needs during peak traffic periods and reducing power supply during low-demand times to conserve energy.

[0045] A modular unit is embedded with the system that includes retrofitting kits designed to be easily installed onto existing road surfaces without requiring reconstruction or disruption. During installation, the retrofitting kits connect to the existing road’s electrical and communication networks, enabling integration with the overall energy harvesting and traffic management system. The sensors within the kits capture mechanical pressure and traffic data just like newly installed systems, while the communication modules transmit real-time information to central management units.

[0046] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the plurality of piezoelectric sensors is embedded across selected segments of the road surface subjected to vehicular movement. As vehicles pass over these segments, the pressure exerted deforms the piezoelectric materials, generating electric charge. The electric charge is transferred to the energy harvesting unit composed of high-efficiency piezoelectric nanomaterials and the power converter, which regulates and amplifies the electrical output. The converted power is then routed to the local energy storage unit equipped with batteries that store the generated energy for consistent supply to nearby road infrastructure such as streetlights, traffic signals, and surveillance cameras. Simultaneously, the sensing module captures real-time traffic data and includes radar guns to detect vehicle speed, magnetic sensors to estimate traffic density, and accelerometers to assess surface conditions. All gathered data is forwarded to the IoT-based communication module embedded nearby, which is wirelessly connected to the central traffic management unit via established wireless protocols.

[0047] In continuation, vibration detectors within the pavement detect subtle changes in surface, transmitting such data to the cloud-based processing system to predict maintenance requirements. The AI-driven power distribution module receives input from both the storage unit and traffic data analysis module to allocate stored energy based on usage priority. The modular retrofitting kits installed on existing roads without requiring complete reconstruction, integrate into current infrastructure, making the invention suitable for city upgrades with minimal disruption.

[0048] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A piezoelectric energy harvesting system for roads, comprising:

i) a plurality of piezoelectric sensors embedded in a road surface, connected to an energy harvesting unit, which converts mechanical pressure from vehicle traffic into electrical power to supply streetlights and traffic signals;
ii) a sensing module integrated into a road surface to collects real-time data on vehicle speed, traffic density, and road conditions;
iii) an IoT-based communication module, linked to road-embedded sensors and sensing module, and wirelessly connected to a central traffic management unit, which wirelessly sends traffic and road condition data to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion; and
iv) a local energy storage unit with batteries or super capacitors, connected to piezoelectric sensors, which stores and distributes electrical power to operate road infrastructure equipment efficiently.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the energy harvesting unit includes high-efficiency piezoelectric nanomaterials, connected to a power converter, which increases electrical output from vehicle pressure for enhanced energy efficiency.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensing module, includes but not limited to radar guns, magnetic sensors and accelerometers.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a vibration detector, connected to the IoT-based communication module, which provide data on pavement conditions to predict road maintenance needs.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the IoT communication module uses wireless protocols, connected to a cloud-based processing unit, which analyzes traffic data to adjust traffic signals in real time for improved safety.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the local energy storage unit is linked to an AI-driven power distribution module, connected to road infrastructure, which optimizes power allocation based on vehicle flow and energy demand.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a modular units include retrofitting kits, connected to existing road surfaces, which enable integration into current infrastructure with minimal modifications for city applications.