Abstract

As demand for sustainable energy continues to rise globally, alternative alternative sources like piezoelectric systems are attracting interest. The study aimed to optimize the performance of piezoelectric kinetic energy harvesting pads (KEHP) by examining the effects of sensor placement, user weight, and sitting duration on voltage output. Recognizing the increasing need for sustainable energy solutions, the research explored how human mechanical pressure during sitting could be converted into electrical energy. A quantitative experimental design was employed, using piezoelectric sensors embedded in the pad, configured in both centered and scattered placements, and tested with two weight categories (51 kg and 82 kg) over sitting durations of 10 and 30 minutes. Data were analyzed using independent samples t-test and correlation analysis via Jamovi software. The results showed that sensor placement and user weight produced observable differences in voltage output, but these were not statistically significant. However, sitting duration emerged as a critical factor, with the 30-minute sitting duration yielding significantly higher voltage outputs compared to the 10-minute duration. Correlation analysis further supported these findings, revealing a strong positive correlation between sitting duration and voltage output, while sensor placement and weight displayed weak, non-significant relationships. These findings suggest that sustained mechanical pressure significantly enhances the energy harvesting capability of KEHP systems, while factors such as weight and sensor configuration have lesser impacts within the tested conditions. The study concludes that for practical applications, KEHP systems should prioritize longer durations of mechanical stress to maximize efficiency, with future research recommended to refine sensor layouts and integrate energy storage components for improved performance.

Keywords: Piezoelectric energy harvesting, kinetic energy pads, sensor placement, movement, voltage generation