1. A self-powered lighting system (100) for illuminating a bicycle lane, the system (100) comprising: a triboelectric nanogenerator (102) embedded within a surface of the bicycle lane and adapted to generate electrical energy in response to movement of a tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator (102); a circuit (104) configured to receive the electrical energy generated by the triboelectric nanogenerator (102); a light-emitting diode (106) operatively connected to the circuit (104) and adapted to be actuated using the electrical energy to produce visible illumination on the bicycle lane; and a processor (108), characterized in that the processor (108) is configured to: receive the electrical energy from the circuit (104), wherein the electrical energy is adapted to indicate a presence of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator (102); generate an actuation signal based on variation of the electrical energy, wherein the actuation signal is adapted to indicate movement pattern of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator (102); modulate illumination characteristics of the light-emitting diode (106), including pulse timing and illumination intensity, based on the generated actuation signal; and actuate the light-emitting diode (106) based on the modulated illumination characteristics.

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the triboelectric nanogenerator (102) comprises layered dielectric materials having micro-structured contact surfaces adapted to enhance charge generation.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (108) is configured to actuate the light-emitting diode (106) in a pulsed manner corresponding to discrete tire contact events.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the circuit (104) comprises a capacitor adapted to store the electrical energy prior to actuation of the light-emitting diode (106).

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (108) is configured to regulate release of stored electrical energy in controlled pulses to control illumination intensity of the light-emitting diode (106).

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the triboelectric nanogenerator (102) and the light-emitting diode (106) are encapsulated within a waterproof and abrasion-resistant layer.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (108) is configured to activate the light-emitting diode (106) only in response to movement of the tire to enable event-based activation.

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein multiple triboelectric nanogenerators (102) are arranged along a length of the bicycle lane to provide sequential illumination corresponding to motion of a cyclist.

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the triboelectric nanogenerator (102) and the light-emitting diode (106) are integrated within a modular strip configured for installation on the bicycle lane.

10. A method (300) for illuminating a bicycle lane or roadway using a self-powered lighting system (100), the method (300) is characterized by steps of: generating electrical energy using a triboelectric nanogenerator (102) embedded within a surface of the bicycle lane in response to movement of a tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator (102); receiving the electrical energy from the triboelectric nanogenerator (102), wherein the electrical energy is adapted to indicate a presence of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator (102); generating an actuation signal based on variation of the electrical energy, wherein the actuation signal is adapted to indicate movement pattern of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator (102); modulating illumination characteristics of a light-emitting diode (106), including pulse timing and illumination intensity, based on the generated actuation signal; and actuating the light-emitting diode (106) based on the modulated illumination characteristics. Date: May 13, 2026 Place: Noida Nainsi Rastogi Patent Agent (IN/PA-2372) Agent for the Applicant

Description:BACKGROUND
Field of Invention
[001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to sustainable transportation infrastructure and roadway safety and particularly to a system and method for illuminating a bicycle lane.
Description of Related Art
[002] Urban and suburban regions face a high rate of cyclist accidents during night hours due to poor visibility and delayed driver response. Many bicycle lanes lack adequate illumination, especially in developing areas and rural stretches, that results in unsafe travel conditions. Conventional reflective markings fail to provide sufficient visibility unless direct headlight exposure occurs, that limits early detection of cyclists. The absence of reliable illumination infrastructure in such lanes creates a critical safety concern and demands an effective solution that ensures consistent visibility under all conditions.
[003] Current solutions include reflective paints, solar-powered road studs, LED-lit bicycle paths, and inductive street lighting systems. Reflective paints offer a low-cost option but depend entirely on external light sources. Solar-powered studs and illuminated paths rely on solar energy storage and battery systems for operation. Inductive or wired lighting systems require extensive infrastructure with embedded electrical networks beneath the road surface. These approaches represent existing commercial practices for enhancing nighttime visibility in bicycle lanes.
[004] However, present solutions exhibit several limitations. Most systems depend on external power sources such as solar energy or grid electricity, that reduces reliability under adverse weather or power failure conditions. Many systems operate continuously or on fixed schedules without response to actual cyclist presence, that leads to energy inefficiency. High installation cost, complex infrastructure requirements, and maintenance challenges further restrict widespread adoption. In addition, performance degradation occurs in fog, rain, or overcast conditions, that limits effectiveness in real-world environments.
[005] There is thus a need for an improved and advanced system and method for illuminating bicycle lane that can administer the aforementioned limitations in a more efficient manner.
SUMMARY
[006] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a system for illuminating a bicycle lane. The system comprising a triboelectric nanogenerator embedded within a surface of the bicycle lane and adapted to generate electrical energy in response to movement of a tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator. The system further comprising a circuit to receive the electrical energy generated by the triboelectric nanogenerator. The system further comprising a light-emitting diode operatively connected to the circuit and adapted to be actuated using the electrical energy to produce visible illumination on the bicycle lane. The system further comprising a processor. The processor is configured to receive the electrical energy from the circuit. The electrical energy is adapted to indicate a presence of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator; generate an actuation signal based on variation of the electrical energy. The actuation signal is adapted to indicate movement pattern of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator; modulate illumination characteristics of the light-emitting diode, including pulse timing and illumination intensity, based on the generated actuation signal; and actuate the light-emitting diode based on the modulated illumination characteristics.
[007] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention further provide a method for illuminating a bicycle lane. The method comprising steps of generating electrical energy using a triboelectric nanogenerator embedded within a surface of the bicycle lane in response to movement of a tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator; receiving the electrical energy from the triboelectric nanogenerator. The electrical energy is adapted to indicate a presence of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator; generating an actuation signal based on variation of the electrical energy. The actuation signal is adapted to indicate movement pattern of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator; modulating illumination characteristics of a light-emitting diode, including pulse timing and illumination intensity, based on the generated actuation signal; and actuating the light-emitting diode based on the modulated illumination characteristics.
[008] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a number of advantages depending on their particular configuration. First, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for illuminating a bicycle lane.
[009] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for illuminating a bicycle lane that enhances nighttime visibility of bicycle lanes without reliance on external power sources.
[0010] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for illuminating a bicycle lane that reduces installation complexity and cost by eliminating the need for extensive wiring or grid connectivity.
[0011] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for illuminating a bicycle lane that provides event-based illumination that activates in response to actual cyclist or vehicle movement.
[0012] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for illuminating a bicycle lane that ensures reliable operation under diverse environmental conditions including low sunlight, rain, or fog.
[0013] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for illuminating a bicycle lane that minimizes maintenance requirements through elimination of battery-dependent components and associated degradation.
[0014] These and other advantages will be apparent from the present application of the embodiments described herein.
[0015] The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The above and still further features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:
[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system for illuminating a bicycle lane, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates components of a processor of the system for illuminating the bicycle lane, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0019] FIG. 3 depicts a flowchart of a method for illuminating the bicycle lane, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. Optional portions of the figures may be illustrated using dashed or dotted lines, unless the context of usage indicates otherwise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[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 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] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a self-powered lighting system 100 (hereinafter referred to as the system 100) for illuminating a bicycle lane, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 may provide a self-powered, adaptive, and event-responsive illumination mechanism. The system 100 may generate electrical energy from tire interaction, condition the generated energy, and deliver controlled illumination output suitable for enhancing visibility of the bicycle lane with minimal external dependency.
[0025] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the system 100 may incorporate non-limiting hardware components to enhance the processing speed and efficiency such as the system 100 may comprise a triboelectric nanogenerator 102, a circuit 104, a light-emitting diode 106, and a processor 108. In an embodiment of the present invention, the hardware components of the system 100 may be integrated with computer-executable instructions for overcoming the challenges and the limitations of the existing systems.
[0026] In an embodiment of the present invention, the triboelectric nanogenerator 102 may be embedded within a surface of the bicycle lane and adapted to generate electrical energy in response to movement of a tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator 102. In an embodiment of the present invention, the movement of the tire may correspond to a bicycle tire and a vehicle tire. The triboelectric nanogenerator 102 may be adapted to generate electrical energy in response to varying load conditions associated with different tire types. The system 100 may be configured for deployment across bicycle lanes and shared roadways.
[0027] The electrical energy may comprise transient electrical pulses corresponding to discrete tire contact events. The triboelectric nanogenerator 102 may comprise layered dielectric materials having micro-structured contact surfaces adapted to enhance charge generation efficiency. In an embodiment of the present invention, the layered dielectric materials of the triboelectric nanogenerator 102 may be adapted to include micro-structured contact surfaces configured to increase effective contact area and enhance charge generation during tire interaction.
[0028] The triboelectric nanogenerator 102 and the light-emitting diode 106 may be encapsulated within a protective layer configured to provide resistance against water ingress, mechanical abrasion, and environmental degradation. In an embodiment of the present invention, the triboelectric nanogenerator 102 and the light-emitting diode 106 may be encapsulated within a waterproof and abrasion-resistant layer adapted to protect against environmental exposure and mechanical loading. In an embodiment of the present invention, the protective layer may comprise a hydrophobic layer, a UV-resistant layer, and an abrasion-resistant layer arranged in a multi-layer configuration. The protective layer may be adapted to prevent water ingress, resist ultraviolet exposure, and withstand repeated mechanical loading from tire interaction. The system 100 may further be configured in a modular form factor to facilitate installation on existing bicycle lanes without extensive structural modification. In an embodiment of the present invention, the triboelectric nanogenerator 102 and the light-emitting diode 106 may be integrated within a modular strip adapted for installation onto the surface of the bicycle lane.
[0029] In an embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 may be adapted to operate independent of external light conditions and atmospheric conditions. The triboelectric nanogenerator 102 may be configured to generate electrical energy based on mechanical interaction independent of sunlight availability. The protective layer may be adapted to maintain operational integrity during rain and surface moisture conditions.
[0030] In an embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 may be adapted for deployment in prefabricated formats including surface strips, embedded pavers, and lane divider units. The triboelectric nanogenerator 102, the circuit 104, and the light-emitting diode 106 may be integrated within a unified structural unit configured for direct installation onto the surface of the bicycle lane. The modular configuration may be adapted to enable rapid installation and replacement without structural modification of the bicycle lane.
[0031] The surface of the bicycle lane may be indicative of a physical deployment region where the triboelectric nanogenerator 102 may be embedded and operated. The surface may include, but is not limited to, urban bicycle lanes, suburban pathways, rural road segments, dedicated cycling tracks, shared roadways, or any other region where cyclist movement occurs. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of deployment surface, including known, related art, and/or later developed configurations.
[0032] The triboelectric nanogenerator 102 may be, but not limited to, a contact-mode triboelectric nanogenerator, a sliding-mode triboelectric nanogenerator, a single-electrode triboelectric nanogenerator, a freestanding triboelectric nanogenerator, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the triboelectric nanogenerator 102, including known, related art, and later developed technologies.
[0033] In an embodiment of the present invention, the circuit 104 may be adapted to receive the electrical energy generated by the triboelectric nanogenerator 102 and condition the electrical energy for downstream utilization. The circuit 104 may be configured to perform energy rectification, storage, and regulation. In an embodiment of the present invention, the circuit 104 may comprise a capacitor adapted to store the electrical energy generated by the triboelectric nanogenerator 102 prior to actuation of the light-emitting diode 106.
[0034] In an embodiment of the present invention, the circuit 104 may be adapted to selectively bypass energy storage and directly transmit electrical energy generated by the triboelectric nanogenerator 102 to the light-emitting diode 106. The circuit 104 may be configured to enable immediate actuation of the light-emitting diode 106 in response to transient electrical pulses generated during tire interaction. The processor 108 may be configured to detect availability of sufficient instantaneous electrical energy and control direct activation of the light-emitting diode 106 without utilization of stored energy. In an embodiment of the present invention, the processor 108 may be configured to regulate release of stored electrical energy from the circuit 104 in controlled pulses to control illumination intensity of the light-emitting diode 106.
[0035] The circuit 104 may be, but not limited to, an energy rectification circuit, an energy storage circuit, an energy conditioning circuit, a voltage regulation circuit, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the circuit 104, including known, related art, and later developed technologies.
[0036] In an embodiment of the present invention, the light-emitting diode 106 may be operatively coupled to the circuit 104 and may be adapted to actuate using the electrical energy to produce visible illumination on the bicycle lane. The light-emitting diode 106 may be configured to emit light in response to conditioned electrical energy received from the circuit 104. The illumination may comprise pulsed light patterns corresponding to discrete tire contact events. In an embodiment of the present invention, the processor 108 may be configured to actuate the light-emitting diode 106 in a pulsed manner based on discrete electrical pulses generated by the triboelectric nanogenerator 102 during tire contact events. The light-emitting diode 106 may be positioned along edges or predefined regions of the bicycle lane to provide enhanced visual guidance.
[0037] In an embodiment of the present invention, the light-emitting diode 106 may be positioned along boundary edges of the bicycle lane to define a visible lane structure. The processor 108 may be configured to control illumination of edge-aligned light-emitting diodes 106 to enhance directional guidance for a cyclist.
[0038] The light-emitting diode 106 may be, but not limited to, a surface-mounted light-emitting diode, a high-intensity light-emitting diode, a low-power light-emitting diode, a pulsed light-emitting diode, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the light-emitting diode 106, including known, related art, and later developed technologies.
[0039] In an embodiment of the present invention, the processor 108 may be operatively coupled to the circuit 104 and the light-emitting diode 106. The processor 108 may be configured to receive the electrical energy from the circuit 104. The electrical energy may be adapted to indicate a presence of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator 102. The processor 108 may generate an actuation signal based on variation of the electrical energy. The actuation signal may be adapted to indicate movement pattern of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator 102. The processor 108 may modulate illumination characteristics of the light-emitting diode 106, including pulse timing and illumination intensity, based on the generated actuation signal.
[0040] In an embodiment of the present invention, the processor 108 may enable event-based activation wherein illumination occurs only upon detection of tire interaction, thereby ensuring efficient utilization of generated energy. In certain embodiments, the processor 108 may actuate the light-emitting diode 106 based on the modulated illumination characteristics and coordinate sequential activation of multiple light-emitting diodes 106 corresponding to arrangement of multiple triboelectric nanogenerators 102 along a length of the bicycle lane to provide a dynamic illumination effect aligned with cyclist movement.
[0041] In an embodiment of the present invention, the processor 108 may be configured to adapt operation based on frequency of actuation signals received from the circuit 104. The processor 108 may be adapted to enable direct actuation of the light-emitting diode 106 during high-frequency tire interaction events. The processor 108 may be further configured to utilize stored electrical energy from the circuit 104 during low-frequency tire interaction events to ensure consistent illumination.
[0042] In an embodiment of the present invention, the processor 108 may be adapted to maintain a zero-standby operational state in absence of tire interaction. The processor 108 may be configured to initiate signal processing and illumination control only upon receipt of actuation signal from the circuit 104. The system 100 may be adapted to eliminate idle energy consumption by restricting operation of the processor 108 and the light-emitting diode 106 to active energy generation events.
[0043] In an embodiment of the present invention, the processor 108 may enable event-based activation wherein illumination occurs only upon detection of tire interaction, thereby ensuring efficient utilization of generated energy.
[0044] In an embodiment of the present invention, the processor 108 may coordinate sequential activation of multiple light-emitting diodes 106 corresponding to arrangement of multiple triboelectric nanogenerators 102 along a length of the bicycle lane to provide dynamic illumination aligned with cyclist movement. In an embodiment of the present invention, multiple triboelectric nanogenerators 102 may be arranged along the length of the bicycle lane and adapted to provide sequential illumination through coordinated actuation of the light-emitting diode 106.
[0045] In an embodiment of the present invention, the processor 108 may be configured to synchronize activation timing of the light-emitting diode 106 across multiple triboelectric nanogenerators 102. The processor 108 may be adapted to regulate timing intervals between successive illumination events based on propagation of actuation signals along the bicycle lane. The synchronized illumination may be configured to produce a continuous visual guidance pattern aligned with movement of a cyclist.
[0046] The processor 108 may be, but not limited to, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, a signal processing unit, an embedded control unit, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the processor 108, including known, related art, and later developed technologies. The processor 108 may further be explained in detail in conjunction with FIG. 2.
[0047] FIG. 2 illustrates components of the processor 108 of the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The processor 108 may comprise an energy reception module 200, an actuation signal generation module 202, an illumination modulation module 204, and a light actuation control module 206. The modules may collectively enable reception, analysis, modulation, and controlled utilization of electrical energy generated by the triboelectric nanogenerator 102 for adaptive illumination of the bicycle lane.
[0048] In an embodiment of the present invention, the energy reception module 200 may be configured to receive the electrical energy from the circuit 104 wherein the electrical energy is adapted to indicate the presence of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator 102. The energy reception module 200 may be further configured to process the received electrical energy to obtain conditioned electrical parameters. The processing may include, but not limited to, signal filtering, pulse conditioning, normalization, waveform stabilization, and threshold adjustment. Further, the energy reception module 200 may be configured to transmit the conditioned electrical parameters to the actuation signal generation module 202.
[0049] In an embodiment of the present invention, the actuation signal generation module 202 may be configured to receive the conditioned electrical parameters from the energy reception module 200. In an embodiment of the present invention, the actuation signal generation module 202 may be configured to generate the actuation signal based on variation of the electrical energy. The variation of the electrical energy may include, but not limited to, fluctuation in signal amplitude, pulse interval, waveform pattern, frequency variation, and temporal changes. The generated actuation signal may indicate a movement pattern of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator 102. In an exemplary scenario, if the actuation signal generation module 202 determines a predefined variation pattern in the conditioned electrical parameters, then the actuation signal generation module 202 may be configured to generate the actuation signal corresponding to the detected tire movement pattern. Further, the actuation signal generation module 202 may be configured to transmit the generated actuation signal to the illumination modulation module 204.
[0050] In an embodiment of the present invention, the illumination modulation module 204 may be configured to receive the generated actuation signal from the actuation signal generation module 202. In an embodiment of the present invention, the illumination modulation module 204 may be configured to modulate illumination characteristics of the light-emitting diode 106 based on the generated actuation signal. The illumination characteristics may include, but not limited to, pulse timing, illumination intensity, pulse duration, flashing sequence, illumination frequency, and so forth. In an exemplary scenario, if the illumination modulation module 204 determines that the generated actuation signal corresponds to continuous tire movement, then the illumination modulation module 204 may be configured to increase illumination intensity or adjust pulse timing for enhanced visibility. In another exemplary scenario, if the generated actuation signal corresponds to intermittent tire movement, then the illumination modulation module 204 may be configured to reduce illumination intensity or alter flashing intervals to optimize energy utilization. Further, the illumination modulation module 204 may be configured to transmit modulated illumination parameters to the light actuation control module 206.
[0051] In an embodiment of the present invention, the light actuation control module 206 may be configured to receive the modulated illumination parameters from the illumination modulation module 204. In an embodiment of the present invention, the light actuation control module 206 may be configured to actuate the light-emitting diode 106 based on the modulated illumination characteristics. The light actuation control module 206 may generate control signals corresponding to the modulated illumination parameters and transmit the control signals to the light-emitting diode 106 for producing visible illumination on the bicycle lane. In certain embodiments, the light actuation control module 206 may be configured to coordinate actuation of multiple light-emitting diodes 106 arranged along a length of the bicycle lane to provide sequential illumination corresponding to the detected movement pattern of the tire.
[0052] FIG. 3 depicts a flowchart of a method 300 for illuminating the bicycle lane, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0053] At step 302, the system 100 may generate the electrical energy using the triboelectric nanogenerator 102 embedded within the surface of the bicycle lane in response to movement of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator 102.
[0054] At step 304, the system 100 may receive the electrical energy from the triboelectric nanogenerator 102. The electrical energy may be adapted to indicate the presence of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator 102.
[0055] At step 306, the system 100 may determine variation of the electrical energy. Upon detection of the variation of the electrical energy, the method 300 may proceed to a step 308. Else, the method 300 may revert to the step 302.
[0056] At step 308, the system 100 may generate the actuation signal based on the variation of the electrical energy. The actuation signal may be adapted to indicate movement pattern of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator 102.
[0057] At step 310, the system 100 may modulate illumination characteristics of the light-emitting diode 106, including the pulse timing and the illumination intensity, based on the generated actuation signal.
[0058] At step 312, the system 100 may actuate the light-emitting diode 106 based on the modulated illumination characteristics.
[0059] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0060] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined in the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements within substantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. , C , Claims:CLAIMS
I/We Claim:
1. A self-powered lighting system (100) for illuminating a bicycle lane, the system (100) comprising:
a triboelectric nanogenerator (102) embedded within a surface of the bicycle lane and adapted to generate electrical energy in response to movement of a tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator (102);
a circuit (104) configured to receive the electrical energy generated by the triboelectric nanogenerator (102);
a light-emitting diode (106) operatively connected to the circuit (104) and adapted to be actuated using the electrical energy to produce visible illumination on the bicycle lane; and
a processor (108), characterized in that the processor (108) is configured to:
receive the electrical energy from the circuit (104), wherein the electrical energy is adapted to indicate a presence of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator (102);
generate an actuation signal based on variation of the electrical energy, wherein the actuation signal is adapted to indicate movement pattern of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator (102);
modulate illumination characteristics of the light-emitting diode (106), including pulse timing and illumination intensity, based on the generated actuation signal; and
actuate the light-emitting diode (106) based on the modulated illumination characteristics.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the triboelectric nanogenerator (102) comprises layered dielectric materials having micro-structured contact surfaces adapted to enhance charge generation.
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (108) is configured to actuate the light-emitting diode (106) in a pulsed manner corresponding to discrete tire contact events.
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the circuit (104) comprises a capacitor adapted to store the electrical energy prior to actuation of the light-emitting diode (106).
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (108) is configured to regulate release of stored electrical energy in controlled pulses to control illumination intensity of the light-emitting diode (106).
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the triboelectric nanogenerator (102) and the light-emitting diode (106) are encapsulated within a waterproof and abrasion-resistant layer.
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (108) is configured to activate the light-emitting diode (106) only in response to movement of the tire to enable event-based activation.
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein multiple triboelectric nanogenerators (102) are arranged along a length of the bicycle lane to provide sequential illumination corresponding to motion of a cyclist.
9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the triboelectric nanogenerator (102) and the light-emitting diode (106) are integrated within a modular strip configured for installation on the bicycle lane.
10. A method (300) for illuminating a bicycle lane or roadway using a self-powered lighting system (100), the method (300) is characterized by steps of:
generating electrical energy using a triboelectric nanogenerator (102) embedded within a surface of the bicycle lane in response to movement of a tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator (102);
receiving the electrical energy from the triboelectric nanogenerator (102), wherein the electrical energy is adapted to indicate a presence of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator (102);
generating an actuation signal based on variation of the electrical energy, wherein the actuation signal is adapted to indicate movement pattern of the tire over the triboelectric nanogenerator (102);
modulating illumination characteristics of a light-emitting diode (106), including pulse timing and illumination intensity, based on the generated actuation signal; and
actuating the light-emitting diode (106) based on the modulated illumination characteristics.

Date: May 13, 2026
Place: Noida

Nainsi Rastogi
Patent Agent (IN/PA-2372)
Agent for the Applicant