Power generation systems and methods for wheeled objects

摘要

A power generation system for wheeled objects comprises a generator mechanically coupled to one or more of the object's wheels to convert wheel rotational energy into electrical energy. The power generation system may comprise an electrical storage device configured to store the electrical power produced by the generator. Power from the generator and/or the electrical storage device can be used to provide power to other electrical systems in or on the object. In certain embodiments, the electrical storage device comprises a bank of high-capacity capacitors connected in series. Some embodiments use a control circuit, for example, to regulate the charging and discharging of the capacitor bank and to provide suitable voltages for other systems. The power generation system may be disposed within an object's wheel, such as a wheel of a shopping cart.

主权项

1. A power generator configured for use on a non-self-powered, wheeled vehicle, the power generator comprising:
a housing comprising windings; a magnetized element disposed within the housing and operable to rotate about an axis; a drive mechanism configured to cause the magnetized element to rotate in response to rotation of the wheel, wherein the rotation of the magnetized element produces electrical power in the windings so as to enable the generator to supply electrical power; and a control circuit configured to provide the electrical power at two or more voltages, wherein the housing, the magnetized element, and the drive mechanism are disposed within a wheel of the non-self-powered vehicle.