Chapter 1
The Problem
Introduction
Electricity is one of the greatest wonders of science. Next to man, it is the most
important and revolutionary creation in this world. It has practically revolutionized the
world. The gradual but excessive use of electricity has come to bring about stupendous
changes in industry (Singh et al. 2013). Energy is one of the indispensable inputs for the
survival of human being in the earth (Halder et al. 2015). In today’s modern society, most
people just flip a switch or push a button, and everything we depend on is readily available.
Cell phones, computers, televisions, heated water, lights, and so much more, are all the
backbone of any modern society’s functionality (Hayes & Goguely 2011).
Nowadays, the usage of fossil fuels is very rampant especially in terms of the
production of electricity. Fossil fuels, are considered to be the main reason of some
environmental problems such as global warming, climate change, etc, and are being
replaced by alternative (renewable) energy sources in accordance with various agreements
and binding resolutions. Furthermore, electricity consumption and electricity generation
from renewable sources is one of the objectives of sustainable development in order to
satisfy consumption demand (Bayraktutan, Yilgor & UÇak 2011). Access to clean,
affordable and reliable energy has been a cornerstone of the world's increasing prosperity
and economic growth since the beginning of the industrial revolution. Our use of energy in
the twenty–first century must also be sustainable (Chu & Majumdar 2012). Thus, due to
1
the bothersome disproportionate usage of fossil fuels people started looking for alternative
power sources that is both sustainable and environmental friendly.
As energy usage across the world continues to rise, there is need to develop new
sources for electricity generation that have less environmental impacts. Human power can
become an alternative for energy generation and human power is easily available in human
exercise. Consequently, people use bicycles as the main medium of transportation in
villages. In addition, in cities, where most people use exercise bikes, the energy can be
productively used to power electronic gadgets, which require less power (Suhalka et al.
2014). Humans are able to generate approximately 150W of power while riding bicycle.
However, this power goes to waste without any use (Megalingam et al. 2012). Thus, energy
produced by pedaling can be used for driving small appliances. (Sneha & Reddy, 2015).
The modern challenge faced with the global energy situation is the growing energy demand
and the strong dependence on unsustainable fossil fuels. Another concurrent issue is the
adverse health and socio-economic implications of adult obesity. Human Power
Generation, which uses metabolized human energy to generate electrical power, could
potentially address both these challenges (Mankodi 2012).
With the energy and environmental problems becoming increasingly serious,
human power, as a pervasive, renewable, mobile and environment friendly energy, draws
more and more attention over the world. When selecting a suitable renewable generator,
consumers focus on low cost, easy installation, minimal limitation due to topography,
height and size, realizable and low maintenance rather than the volume of electricity
generated. Hence, bicycles become one of the best choices. Because of their mobility and
convenience, bicycles turn out to be a useful tool for people traveling in the city. Moreover,
2
bicycles do not require fossil fuel or generate any air pollution or noise. By combining
bicycles and generators, the public would be able to recycle the long ignored human energy
(Hsieh & Jair 2014). Prompted by the sight of the excessive usage of fossil fuels and the
need to find a sustainable and reliable alternative source of energy the researchers decided
to utilize and harness human power which can be later transformed into electricity through
the creation of a bicycle electricity generator in order to provide an alternative source of
power that could become a helpful solution in ongoing problems with regards to energy.
Statement of the Problem
The current study aims to determine whether the Prolific Electricity-generating
Device Acquiring source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L) can become an effective source of
power that can be utilized as an effective alternative source of energy for small appliances
such as cellphones.
Specifically, the study sought to answer the following questions
1. What are the components that are needed in order to create the device Prolific
Electricity-generating Device Acquiring source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L)?
2. How efficient is the electrical output of Prolific Electricity-generating Device
Acquiring source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L.) in terms of
a) 50 RPM
b) 80 RPM
c) 100 RPM
3
3. What is the level of acceptability of the respondents on the device Prolific
Electricity-generating Device Acquiring source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L.) in
terms of
a) Durability
b) Ease of Operation
c) Cost Effectiveness
Hypothesis
The Prolific Electricity-generating Device Acquiring source from Locomotion
(P.E.D.A.L.) can’t be utilized as an effective alternative source of energy for small
appliances such as cellphones.
Scope and Delimitation
The study was mainly focused on determining whether Prolific Electricitygenerating Device Acquiring source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L.) could become an
effective alternative source of power. The current study utilized the research design posttest only. Additionally, the present study discussed whether the concept of human power
can be effectively turned into electricity which can become an alternative source of energy
through taking advantage of the amount of energy that can be released through pedaling.
The proponents tested the efficiency of the device P.E.D.A.L through the usage of different
levels of rotation per minute (rpm) specifically 50 rpm, 80 rpm, and 100 rpm.
The study was limited to the assessment of the effectivity of the bicycle electricity
generator as an alternative source of power. The researchers only utilized freely moving
4
bicycles for the current study, stationary bikes such as the one typically found at homes
and gyms was not utilized.
Purpose of the Capstone Project
In today’s generation, the availability of electricity is much appreciated by the
humans due to its numerous advantages. But, in order to obtain vast capacity of electrical
energy the utilization of coal plant, nuclear plant, and other is needed. However, the
enormous usage of variety of fuels to generate electricity creates a huge impact to our
environment that is inevitable . It produces detrimental effects not just in the environment
also to humans; it may lead to destruction of hundreds of habitats, chaos due to the
dependency and many more.
The main purpose of this study was to create an alternative generating electricity
device to lessen the consumption of electricity sourced from fossil fuels. The researchers
incorporated the usage of bicycle due to the reason that a lot of people used it as their means
of transportation, hobby, for leisure, exercise and sport. With this concept, the cyclist or
bikers can fully maximize the potential of their bicycles by pedaling the bike.
It may generate two essential benefits to the users of this device, first, they can
improve their health by using the bicycle for their everyday exercise or whatsoever and
lastly, they can generate electricity by pedaling the bike (kinetic energy) to be converted to
electrical energy.
5
Service Learning Component
Due to the current situation that the world is facing whereas fossil fuels which
serves as the primary source of electricity is continuously depleting, the study at hand aims
to provide a simple solution that would contribute in solving the problems that arose with
the depletion of fossil fuels which sadly also causes more destructions to the environment.
Through the current research, the idea of generating an electrical output from a nonrenewable source of energy which is the fossil fuel was replaced with a more efficient,
sustainable, and innovative renewable source of energy that came from human power or
the energy being produced by humans through pedaling. Furthermore, the usage of a
bicycle to generate electricity would enable people to have an alternative way to charge
their phones, flashlights, radio, and other small appliances when there is a sudden need for
power but when electricity can nowhere be found.
The product of this project would not only be a contributing factor for prevention
of the continuous usage of fossil fuels, but it would also lead to an innovative and a much
needed change in a world where the generation of electricity primarily depended mostly
on the continuous usage of fossils fuels. Additionally, various communities where there is
no access in grid power and the scarcity of electricity is very rampant, would be given an
alternative and sustainable source of electricity through the usage of the bicycle which is a
common tool for transportation and recreation in a lot of communities.
Significance of the Study
The excessive use of fossils fuel in order to generate electricity poses a major
problem that different countries are aiming to control. The effects of the continuous usage
6
of fossil fuel innately destroys the environment and ecosystems along it. Thus, due to the
troublesome problems that scientists and governments alike are scrambling to find
solutions, alternative sources of power or electricity that is both sustainable and ecofriendly are posing as a replacement for conventional electricity.
The current study will benefit the following:
Community. Bicycles are common staples in some rural areas thus with the usage
of Prolific Electricity-generating Device Acquiring source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L)
communities will be able to generate an alternative source power or electricity through the
usage of their common means of transportation.
Electric Consumers. The usage of Prolific Electricity-generating Device
Acquiring source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L) can help consumers lessen their electrical
bill through the usage of an alternative source of power for small gadgets such as
cellphones.
Mobile Phone Users. Prolific Electricity-generating Device Acquiring source from
Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L) can promote a healthier option for users to charge their phone by
forcing them to exercise with the promise of a charged phone.
Cyclist. The usage of Prolific Electricity-generating Device Acquiring source from
Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L) can help reduce the worries of cyclist who are cycling through
long routes by enabling a source of power for probably the only means of communication
in distant places which is a cellphone and as well as small devices such as flashlights.
Future Researcher. The usage of Prolific Electricity-generating Device Acquiring
source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L) can help create a basis and enable future researchers
7
to delve deeper into different kinds of alternatives that can be used as a source of electricity
like human power.
Definition of Terms
Bicycle. Your dictionary (2019) defined bicycle as a human-powered or motor-powered,
pedal-driven, single-track vehicle, having two wheels attached to a frame, one behind the
other. On the other hand, bicycle will be defined in the study as the mechanism that will be
used in order to gather human power.
Electricity Generator. Petropedia (2019) definition for electricity generator is a device
used to generate electricity by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy to be
used in external circuit. It is an essential device used to supply the electrical power at the
time
of power outage
and
offers
continuity
of
daily
activities
or
various
business operations, the current study will also utilize the same definition
Human Power. the website brainly defined human power as a work or energy. It can also
refer to the power (rate of work per time) of a human. Consequently, the same definition
will also be utilized by the current study.
RPM. Collins dictionary (2019) defined rpm as something that is used to indicate the speed
of something by saying how many times per minute it will go round in a circle. rpm is an
abbreviation for 'revolutions per minute’ the same definition will be used by the current
study.
8
Notes
Singh, A. et al. (2013). Generation of electricity through speed breaker
mechanism. International Journal of Innovations in Engineering and
Technology (IJIET, 2 (2), 2013, 20-24.
Halder, P. K., et al. (2015). Energy scarcity and potential of renewable energy in
Bangladesh. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 51, 1636-1649.
Bayraktutan, Y., Yilgor, M., & UÇak, S. (2011). Renewable electricity generation and
economic growth: Panel-data analysis for OECD members. International
Research Journal of Finance and Economics, 66, 59-66.
Hayes, B., & Goguely, L. (2011). Bicycle power generator design for dc house: off grid
energy solutions. Senior Project, California Polytechnic State University,
San Luis Obispo, CA.
Chu, S., & Majumdar, A. (2012). Opportunities and challenges for a sustainable energy
future. nature, 488(7411), 294.
Bidwai, M. S., et al. (2017). Gym Power Station: Turning Workout into
Electricity. International Research Journal of Engineering and
Technology (IRJET), 4(03), 424-426.
Megalingam, R. K., et al. (2012). Pedal power generation. International Journal of
Applied Engineering Research, 7(11), 699-704.
Suhalka, R., et al. (2014). Generation of Electrical Power using Bicycle
Pedal. International Journal of Recent Research and Review, 7(2), 63-67.
Sneha, B., & Reddy, D. M. D. (2015). Generation of Power from Bicycle
Pedal. International Journal of Advanced Reseach in Electrical,
Electronics and Instrumentation Engineering, 4.
Mankodi, H. (2012). Analysis of a treadmill based human power electricity generator.
Hsieh, M. C., & Jair, D. K. (2014). Design and Realization of a 300 W Human Power
Energy Generator System on a Bicycle. Energy and Environment
Research, 4(2), 73.
9
CHAPTER 2
Review of Related Literature and Study
This chapter present the related literature and studies after a comprehensive and
thorough in-depth analysis of related concepts and principles about the study. Furthermore,
this chapter will also contain the synthesis of the state of the art, bridging the gap,
theoretical framework, and lastly the conceptual framework in order to better understand
the topic that is at hand.
Related Literature
A study by Bakari 2016 revealed that mobile phones is an important device in
communication, but frequently not all communities have access to grid power and the lack
of electricity results into the villagers having the lack of access to charge mobile phones.
The system that was developed by Bakari aimed to help rural people to charge their phones.
The system was also mentioned to have lessened cost and permit continuous
communication. The project is consist of two existing systems. The first is charging by
using generator and the second existing system is charging by solar. The mentioned
existing systems are very expensive thus the proposed system aims to help rural people to
minimize the cost of charging by the means of the usage of dynamo.
The study of Khan, A. et al. (2015) concluded that the main aimed of the study
which is to design and implement a human exercise power system using gymnasium
bicycles was effective due to the reason that the previously set goal was accomplished
within the constraints of a low production cost and high safety. The conversion efficiency
was less than 50% due to huge loss in alternator but by changing this alternator the
10
efficiency can be increased. In short, the research was a success in proving the concept that
electrical energy can be harnessed from human power, specifically in the gymnasiums.
This prototype was successfully able to meet most of the requirements established at the
beginning of the research and therefore proves the concept of generating electrical power
from a stationary exercise bike. This method may also be implemented by trade mill in
gymnasiums.
Free Energy means “Zero cost Energy”. It is obtained from the blowing force of
wind which drives the windmill (Mechanical Energy) or solar energy in solar cell which is
converts it into electrical energy and stored in batteries. Other energies are water power
and telluric power. A Dynamo is commonly used to generate these types of energy. This is
how we can try to make an energy efficient system to offer benefits and to make the
environment comfortable for a common man to breathe (Palit, I., et al. 2019)
One of the most useful forms of conventional energy is the pedal power generator.
Bicycles can be converted into pedal generators that are simpler, cheaper and more
environmentally friendly than other conventional methods. Not only are pedal generators
cheap and easy to build, our experimentation and research reveals that pedal generators are
capable of quickly charging batteries. The pedal generator battery charger promises to
benefit power requirement applications across the world and meet the remote power
requirements with simplicity (Siddarameshwara, N., Anup, Y. & Zeel, M. 2010).
Natural fuel use is increased due to industrial development and these sources oil,
coal and natural gas reservoirs are limited. Energy crises need to search for alternate source
of energy that is specifically renewable energy. Human power credit is more because of
health benefit as a source of energy. More effective use of human power could be achieved
11
through properly designed mechanisms. Human power as prime mover used to operate
working unit is termed as human powered machine. Design considerations for bicycle
mechanism are discussed in this paper. Owing to appropriate and most effective technology
to use human power efficiently is bicycle technology. In bicycle technology operator uses
mostly pedal to operate machine and transmits power through crank, chain and freewheels
to the working unit. This machine is widely used to generate electric power, to operate
various home appliances, to drive water pump, harvesting activities in agriculture sector
and simultaneously useful for physical fitness of operator (Mohurle, M., Deshmukh D., &
Patil P. 2016)
Ikechukwu A. & Anthony A. (2016) once stated that using human powered
generation gives a power source that is not directly derived from natural sources. An
example is that a human powered generator can be operated if there is no sun for solar
generation, no wind for wind generation, and no water for hydro generation. The power
generated from pedal is perfect for remote areas, hilly regions, strategic location, Islands
etc., where electricity generation is scanty if not nil. In these situations, a small portable
power generating unit would be of great help to provide power supply to charge batteryoperated gadgets like mobile phones, lamps, radio, communication devices, etc. It is
important to visualize new ways to bring power to the people as population continues to
grow and power shortages continue to occur. Much of the power that is provided to people
today is done in very un-sustainable ways; new ideas are needed to transit into a post cheappetroleum era.
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Pedal power works under three main principles, power levels, pedaling rate and
gear ratios. Power levels depend on capacity of human to pedal. Power level depends on
how strong the peddler is and how long he can pedal. It is considered that a healthy nonathlete can easily generate up to 75 watts of mechanical power while an athletic person can
give twice to this value. A smaller and weaker person can probably produce 50 watts in
same time period. This analysis shows that power level varies with health of peddler.
Pedaling rate is another principle that influences pedal power. It counts the number of
pedals a person made with pedaling speed. But some persons can produce more power at
slow but consistent count of pedal. Therefore, we can say that this rate varies from person
to person because of physical conditions. A research shows that if a person pedal at range
of 50 to 70 revolutions per minute then he can give most efficient results (Jawahar M.,
Venkanna, G. & Sandeep, B. 2014).
In modern life, humans have become dependent on portable electronics, such as
cell phones, most of which are powered by batteries. Although the performance of batteries
is continuously being improved, their limited energy storage constrains the lasting use of
these mobile electronics. Therefore, it is necessary to find alternative or supplementary
methods to solve the energy shortage for portable electronics. According to the literature,
there are a number of methods to power mobile electronic devices. One way to overcome
the power limitations is to extract energy from the environment, such as vibration, light,
either to recharge a battery or to directly power the electronic devices. The other way is to
harvest the energy from the human body. As we know, there is a huge amount of kinetic
energy generated when the human body is in motion, which can be up to 200W (Xie L. &
Duru R. 2012).
13
Related Studies
Energy conservation is a topical issue and this design preferred an efficient method
of doing so. The design was originally conceived to meet the energy needs of those living
in rural areas, due to poor access to electricity and also as a model for gym centers and
cycle workout studios. Most persons living in these rural areas possess at least a cell phone
but lack the means to charge them. This study focused on the design and fabrication of a
pedal operated power generator, for the intents of burning fats while yet generating
electricity. The power generator was designed to be simple, cheap, durable and easily
maintained. It was design using locally sourced materials and is intended to encourage local
ingenuity and empower aspiring entrepreneurs especially in developing countries. Its
purpose is to efficiently transfer human foot motion less than 60 rpm via a treadle and
sprocket-chain step-up to drive a 24V DC permanent magnet generator. The inverter
converts the direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC) which is needed to charge
low voltage devices like mobile phones, laptops etc. Upon completion, it was found to
produce a voltage of 15V and 2.5A at a speed of 483rpm generator speed. The overall
efficiency of the system was about 66.6% (Naik, B. V., Kumar, N. G., & Madhuranthaka,
T. 2016).
A previous study by Singh & Sharma (2014) entitled “Home Automation by
Bicycle Pedal Power Using of Different Sprocket” states that attempts to measure the
optimal pedaling rates for given power output levels as well as design the optimal number
of gears and the corresponding gear ratios. With respect to human performance and power
efficiency, the gear system in typical multi-speed bicycles is often biased and redundant.
The efficiency is increased by using of five different sprockets with having various teeth.
14
A bicycle gear system is frequently designed without ergonomic expertise in terms of
performance and efficiency. The optimal performance during bicycle riding, thereby
facilitating the efficiency and effectiveness of human exercise using a bicycle.
Mobile charging circuit which would give the appropriate voltage and current
required for charging the mobile. Here, the difference will be the input to charging circuit.
In normal chargers, the input is from ac main 230V. However, in our case the voltage will
be of lower value. Correspondingly, some changes are required to be made in the mobile
charging circuit. Here two types of chargers are possible:
• The first, in which the mobile phone battery is charged by connecting the charger output
to mobile phone directly.
• The second in which battery of the mobile phone is charged separately.
In the case of connecting charger to the mobile directly, the battery level indicator
is not required, as the battery level will be shown on the mobile screen itself. However, if
we are charging the battery separately then a battery level indicator will be required.
Battery level indicator is necessary as it avoids overcharging of the batteries, which may
lead to battery damage. Even if there a village is un-electrified, people there use mobile
phones. At such places, our design will be of great use. B.Pedal powered laptops Laptops
powered using solar energy is available, but not everyone can afford to buy it. A simpler
way will be to pedal and charge it. This already exists in Afghanistan and they claim that
even a third grader will be able to use it without any difficulty. Here the pedal is fitted to
the laptop table so that while using the laptop one could charge it (Megalingam, R. K., et
al. 2012).
15
The skills of a mechanical engineer are needed to design an alternate source of
power to supply energy for our mobile phones. The use of mobile phones is evidently
considered a prime necessity used for various functions. The utilization of human power is
taken into consideration as the foundation of this study; wherein it was focused on the
design of a cellphone charger through the use of a pedal assembly to generate a 5V DC
output through a USB port. The design utilized a four bar rocker – crank linkage to convert
pedaling motion into rotary motion, which is then transmitted to a roller assembly having
a speed ratio of 9.23 to increase the angular velocity causing the rotation of a 12V DC
generator. A circuit is designed with a step- up module and voltage regulator for the
purpose of managing the power output to the needed voltage. To generate the required
output of 5V, the recommended speed of operation of the pedal ranges from 90 – 110 RPM.
Performance testing of the pedal powered generator was carried out charging 15 percent of
the battery capacity of a 3.8 V, 1700 mAh cellphone battery in 30 minutes test. In
comparison with the standard charging, a deficit of 12 percent is observed in using the
pedal powered charger. Using the Analysis of Variance by the two-tailed t-test method, a
value of t = -3.8819 was computed. This value was higher than the critical value of 2.5524,
meaning the null hypothesis, stating that there is no significant difference between the
pedal powered charger and the standard charger, is rejected. The statistical treatment result
showed that it confirmed to the relevance of comparison between the pedal powered
charger, and the standard charger (Bravo, R. 2017).
In a previous study by Hossain, M. A., & Tanveer, A.(2013) it was stated that
human power generation can be an attractive renewable source as far as small-scale
production of electricity is concerned. Although, initially it may not be popular to city-
16
dwellers where electricity is available at a much cheaper rate and consumption is huge, the
prospect of using human power generation in rural areas is brighter, where electricity is
scarce and often completely unavailable. This system can, under such circumstances, help
produce enough electricity for lighting individual homes at a village. Also, the concept of
multiple pedaling can reduce the physical effort needed and charging time, which are vital
in rural areas where agrarian life often demands human energy for other uses, such as
farming. Other fields of application of this pedal powered generator may include supplying
necessary amount of electricity during long term load-shedding, charging small electronic
equipment and so on. Another interesting use can be powering and charging portable
research equipment in isolated and inhospitable places, such as in the arctic region or the
jungle.
The bicycle powered generator that we have designed and constructed here
represents the culmination of the electrical engineering and business education the
University provides. Both of the engineers of this project have significant experience in
business and were, thus, able to apply their hands-on technical experience to an actual
useable product. The results far exceed our expectations with a power source that could
provide ample amounts of energy beyond just lights and music. Using our diverse
backgrounds in education, we were able to blend form and function together to create an
easy-to-use and unified system here that meets the specifications originally set forth by the
Burning Kumquat. Our generator is capable of outputting about 60 watts total, but with our
gear ratio and average human pedaling speeds, we were able to achieve about half of this
power output, which is still well over the 20 watt load (16 watts for lighting and 4 watts
17
for the amplifier; the iPod charger uses a minimal amount of power) (Pelz, B., & Feiereisen,
J. 2010).
With the decrease in energy consumption of portable electronic devices, the
concept of harvesting renewable energy in human surrounding arouses a renewed interest.
In this context, we have developed a piezoelectric generator that harvests mechanical
vibrations energy available on a bicycle. Embarked piezoelectric transducer, which is an
electromechanical converter, undergoes mechanical vibrations therefore produce
electricity. A static converter transforms the electrical energy in a suitable form to the
targeted portable application. Values of generated electrical power are reported and
commented (Minazara, E., Vasic, D., & Costa, F. 2008)
There has been a growing interest in applying sustainable energy solutions to the
needs of people living in developing countries. In remote areas, where there exists no
electrical grid due to its great expense, small energy harvesting systems are desired. One
example of such a system is a small scale hydro generation system. The main constrain
faced by small scale hydro generation is the low rpm requirement of 200rpm – 600 rpm.
Unfortunately, the generators that are designed to operate at these low rpms are relatively
expensive. The price of these generators is usually no lower than 100 dollars. The proposed
solution to this problem is to retrofit a car alternator into a low rpm generator in a costeffective manner. The problem faced by current retrofitting methods is that they require
that a car alternator’s electro magnet rotor is replaced with a permanent magnet rotor
Carrillo, E. (2012).
18
Bicycles in general, are known to be the most efficient form of transportation with
a mechanical efficiency ranging between 80% and 99%. The bike used in this experimental
set up had an average efficiency of (51 ±4.3)%. Friction and heat within the gears and belt
of the bike impacted the results, and can be reduced to help improve the overall efficiency
of the set up. Lubricating the gears and fitting a tighter belt (to prevent slip) can help
accomplish this goal. The conversion of mechanical energy to electrical energy through the
DC motor can also be made more efficient by better optimizing the size of the DC motor
to the power output being generated by the bike (Hindi, B. et al. 2010).
Synthesis of the State of the Art
Nowadays, people have become dependent on portable electronics, such as
cellphones, most of which are powered by batteries. As years passed by the improvement
of batteries was continuously improving, but at some point, there are still energy storage
constraints on using these mobile electronics. According to (Xie L. & Duru R. 2012) there
are two ways on how to overcome the power limitations; the extraction of energy from the
environment and to harvest the energy from the human body.
In the article of Siddarameshwara, N., Anup Y. & Zeel, M. (2010) they made a
design and fabrication of a pedal operated power generator for the reason to burn fats while
generating electricity. On the same page, Ikechukwu A. & Anthony A. agreed that using
human powered generator gives a power source that is not directly derived from natural
resources which is a great help to provide power supply to charge battery-operated gadgets.
Subsequently, pedal power works under three main principles, power levels,
pedaling rate and gear ratios. These principle is very cost – efficient, good to our body and
19
at the same time can generate electricity (Naik., B. V., Kumar, N. G., & Madhhuranthaka,
T. (2016). On the other hand, Jawahar M., Venkanna, G. & Sandeep, B. (2014) seconded
that pedal power generator bicycle is one of the most useful forms of conventional energy
that are simple, cheap and environmental friendly.
The following literature of Khan A. et al (2015), aimed to design and implement a
human exercise power system using gymnasium bicycles was effective due to the reason
that previously set goal was accomplished within the constraints of a low production cost
and high safety. Furthermore, Barik (2016) also developed a system generating electricity
by the used of dynamo to help the rural people to minimize the cost of charging. In
connection to this, Palit, I., et al (2019) emphasized the usage of dynamo as an energy
generator system that offer a lot of benefits and making the environment comfortable for a
common man to live.
Moreover, the study of Megalingam, R. K., et al (2012), claimed that the simpler
way to charge an electronic gadget is to pedal it. They even stated that even a third grader
will be able to use it without any difficulty.
Futhermore, Yang, Yeo, & Priya (2012) and Hindi, B. et al (2010) discussed that
bicycles are known to be a source of kinetic energy and to be the most efficient form of
transportation. Making a conventional dyanamo attached to the rim can generate a large
amount of output power at an expense of extra energy input from the user. In the same
manner, the study of Singh & Sharma (2014) attempts to measure the optimal pedaling rate
for given power outputs level as well as design the optimal number of gears and the
20
corresponding gear ratios and concluded that the efficiency increased by using of five
different sprockets.
Both studies of Bravo, R. (2017) and Pelz, B., & Feiereisen, J. (2010) constructed
an alternative source of electricity by using bicycle as the power generator. On Bravo
(2017) study, it was found out that there is no significant difference between the pedals
powered charger and the standard charge. While on Pelz, B., & Feiereisen, J. (2010) they
were able blend form and function together to create an easy-to use and unified system.
Gap Bridged by the Study
Based from the related literatures and studies that was gathered, a critical
observation was concluded by the researchers. Almost all of the collected studies and
literature uses stationary bikes or treadmills that can be commonly found on gyms. As for
the current study, the researchers will utilize moving bicycles that are commonly used by
people as a mode of transportation or sometimes even a tool for recreation. The
implementation of the usage of moving bicycles will replace the utilization of stationary
bicycles that can be frequently seen in previous studies.
The present study also focuses on providing an alternative source of electricity by
harnessing human power which will mainly come from the generated energy of a person
when cycling. The usage of alternative sources of power can aid the environment by
providing an alternative, sustainable and eco-friendly source which will not come from
fossil fuels that gives off harmful byproducts that can be harmful for the environment.
21
Theoretical Framework
The current study utilizes three existing theories that serves as a basis of the
different concepts that is being used in the study namely the three theories are theory
biomechanical energy harvesting from human motion, theory of renewable energy, and
lastly the theory of conservation of energy.
The theory of biochemical energy harvesting from human motion states that
harvesting from human motion presents a promising clean alternative to electrical power
supplied by batteries for portable electronic devices and for computerized and motorized
prosthetics. The theory of energy harvesting from the human body describes the amount
of energy that can be harvested from body heat and from motions of various parts of the
body during walking, such as heel strike; ankle, knee, hip, shoulder, and elbow joint
motion; and center of mass vertical motion
Faraday’s law states that the induced voltage in a circuit is proportional to the rate
of change over time of the magnetic flux through that circuit. In other words, the faster
the magnetic field changes, the greater will be the voltage in the circuit. The direction of
the change in the magnetic field determines the direction of the current.
In theory, motors and generators are the same. If you turn a motor, it will generate
electricity, and applying voltage to a generator, it will cause it to turn. However, most
real motors and generators are optimized for only one function.
The law of conservation of energy is a law of science that states that energy
cannot be created or destroyed, but only changed from one form into another or
transferred from one object to another.
22
Theory
Biomechanical
Energy
Harvesting From
Human Motion
Faraday's
Law
Theory of
Conservation
of Energy
PEDAL: Prolific
Electricity
Generating
Device Acquiring
source from
Locomotion
Figure 1. Theoretical Paradigm
23
Conceptual Framework
Human Power or human kinetic energy is a dispatchable energy source, just like
fossil fuels which can be transferred in a number of ways. The supply muscle power can
be utilized and can be converted into mechanical energy or even electricity. Human energy
is commonly used to propel bicycles, but nowadays human energy can also be used to
generate electricity and power hand-crank tools. Currently, some third world organizations
are implementing human powered technologies to generate electricity to power computers
and different kinds of small appliances. The usage of an alternator is necessary to be
implemented in order to convert direct current electrical energy from human power into
electricity. Alternator which came from cars is a readymade generator that can generate
electricity from using a mechanical outside source of energy like human power and due to
a dispatchable quality energy source of human power, the energy that is being produced by
everyday activities will have the capacity to be converted into electricity with the aid of an
alternator which will have the capacity to support different electronic devices and small
appliances that most of the people rely on such as mobile phones.
24
Human
Power
Alternator
Electricity
Figure 2. Conceptual Paradigm
25
Notes
BAKARI, F. S., & BAKARI, F. S. (2016). DYNAMO BASED CHARGING SYSTEM IN
RURAL AREA (Doctoral dissertation). Retrieved from
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C5&q=BAKARI%2C+F.+
S.%2C+%26+BAKARI%2C+F.+S.+%282016%29.+DYNAMO+BASED+CHA
RGING+SYSTEM+IN+RURAL+AREA+%28Doctoral+dissertation%29.&btnG
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.com%2F%26output%3Dcite%26scirp%3D0%26hl%3Den
Khan, A. A. S., Alam, T., Abir, M. R., & Ullah, M. T. (2015). Harvesting Human
Exercise Power Using Gymnasium Bicycle. Resistor, 1(1N4007),
1N4007.Retrieved from
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C5&q=Khan%2C+A.+et+
al.+%282015%29+human++exercise++power++system+&btnG=
Palit, I., et al. (2019). Review on Energy Generation Using Dynamo. Retrived from
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y+Generation+Using+Dynamo++&btnG=#d=gs_cit&u=%2Fscholar%3Fq%3Din
fo%3AhV4ZSRgxcqAJ%3Ascholar.google.com%2F%26output%3Dcite%26scirp
%3D0%26hl%3Den
Siddarameshwara, H., Anup Y. & Zeel M. (2010). Pedal Power Generation International
Journal of Electrical Engineering.Volume 3, Number 3 (2010), pp. 169—174.
Retrieved from
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M.+Zeel&oq=H.N.+Siddarameshwara%2C+Y.+Anup+and+M.+Zeel&aqs=chro
me..69i57.1772j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
Mohurle, M., Deshmukh D., & Patil P. (2016). Human Power Using Bicycle Mechanism
as an Alternative Energy Source: A Critical Review, International Conference on
Global Trends in Engineering, Technology and Management. Retrieved from
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%29.+Human+Power+Using+Bicycle+Mechanism+as+an+Alternative+Energy+
Source%3A+A+Critical+Review%2C&oq=Mohurle%2C+M.%2C+Deshmukh+D
.%2C+%26+Patil+P.+%282016%29.+Human+Power+Using+Bicycle+Mechanis
m+as+an+Alternative+Energy+Source%3A+A+Critical+Review%2C&gs_l=psyab.3...26702.27182..27791...0.0..0.0.0.......0....1j2..gwswiz.ubnFZvIrJ6k&ved=0ahUKEwiogrGw1ZbnAhWUyosBHRfzCOoQ4dUDCA
s&uact=5
Ikechukwu, A. & Anthony A. (2016). Design and Fabrication of a Pedal Operated Power
Generator, Innovative Systems Design and Engineering, Vol.7, No.3. Retrieved
from https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Design-and-Fabrication-of-a-Pedal26
Operated-Power-AnyanwuAnthony/dd7e8c0cbf12efa791bfc724d3059ca90f9543f9
Jawahar M., Venkanna, G. & Sandeep, B. (2014). Experimental Setup of Pedal Operated
Centrifugal Pump for Low-lift Applications, International Journal Of Modern
Engineering Research Vol. 4 Iss.12. Retrieved from
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andeep%2C+B.+2014&oq=Jawahar+M.%2C+Venkanna%2C+G.+%26+Sandeep
%2C+B.+2014&aqs=chrome..69i57.915j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
Xie L. & Duru R. (2012). Harvest human kinetic energy to power portable electronics.
Journal of Mechanical Science and Technology. Retrieved from
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onghan+Xie1%2C*+and+Ruxu+Du2&aqs=chrome..69i57.1063j0j9&sourceid=ch
rome&ie=UTF-8
Naik, B. V., Kumar, N. G., & Madhuranthaka, T. (2016). Design and Fabrication of a
Pedal Operated Power Generator, Innovative Systems Design and Engineering,
Vol.7, No.3, 2016. Retrieved from
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er+Generator&oq=Design+and+Fabrication+of+a+Pedal+Operated+Power+Generator&a
qs=chrome..69i57.1789j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
Singh, R., & Sharma, D. C. (2014). Experimental Study of Home Automation by Bicycle
Pedal Power Using of Different Sprocket. International Journal of Engineering
Trends and Technology (IJETT), 8(2), 77-81. Retrieved from
https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/d8bf/cafbe7d2021c967744fd43633cc7e992f475.
pdf
Megalingam, R. K., Veliyara, P. S., Prabhu, R. M., & Katoch, R. (2012). Pedal power
generation. International Journal of Applied Engineering Research, 7(11), 699704. Retrieved from
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rajesh_Kannan_Megalingam2/publication/2
59980152_Pedal_Power_Generation/links/5a2bb51baca2728e05dea52f/PedalPower-Generation.pdf
Bravo, R. (2017). Utilization of Pedal Power to Produce Sufficient Back-up Electrical
Energy in Charging Electrical Device in Times of Power Crisis. Retrieved from
http://udr.slu.edu.ph:8080/jspui/bitstream/123456789/2183/1/Bravo_1%20et%20a
l.pdf
Hossain, M. A., & Tanveer, A.(2013) INNOVATIVE TECNIQUE OF POWER
GENERATION BY MULTIPLE PEDALING. Retrieved from
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C5&as_ylo=2010&q=Mo
hammad+A.+Hossain1%2C+Asif+Tanveer2&btnG=#d=gs_cit&u=%2Fscholar%
3Fq%3Dinfo%3Ahg36wbj902oJ%3Ascholar.google.com%2F%26output%3Dcite
%26scirp%3D0%26hl%3Den
27
Pelz, B., & Feiereisen, J. (2010). Bicycle Powered Generator for the University
Farm (Doctoral dissertation). Retrieved from
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elz+j+feiereisen&btnG=
Carrillo, E. (2012). Equating a Car Alternator with the Generated Voltage Equation.
Retrived from
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1145&context=ee
sp`
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Sustainable Exercise: Using Stationary Bicycles to Power a Green Gym.
Retrieved from
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+Road+to+Sustainable+Exercise%3A+Using+Stationary+Bicycles+to+Power+a+
Green+Gym+&btnG=
Riemer, R., Shapiro, A. (2011) Biomechanical energy harvesting from human motion:
theory, state of the art, design guidelines, and future directions. J
NeuroEngineering Rehabil. Retrieved from doi:10.1186/1743-0003-8-22
Lucas, J. (2016) What Is Faraday’s Law of Induction? Retrieved from
https://www.livescience.com/53509-faradays-law-induction.html
Law of Conservation of Energy Examples (nd). Retrieved from
https://examples.yourdictionary.com/law-of-conservation-of-energy-examples.html
Human Power (nd.) retrieved from
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.lowtech
magazine.com/2017/05/could-we-run-modern-society-on-human-poweralone.html&ved=2ahUKEwiq08eY1ZbnAhVqxYsBHTUlAvcQFjACegQIERAJ
&usg=AOvVaw1W2GaybsZqMkBjZZiP-Af6
Kiran Deware, 2018, Working Principle of a DC Motor retrieved from
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.electrical
easy.com/2014/01/basic-working-of-dcmotor.html%3Fm%3D1&ved=2ahUKEwjY9b3_0JbnAhVuxosBHcbvCOEQFjAa
egQIBxAB&usg=AOvVaw0Rm85tM656Se_wwxls2JdJ&cshid=1579677121264
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hAB&usg=AOvVaw3GgiTmSDAaIMM7TDBW5tNH&cshid=1579677360701
28
CHAPTER 3
Methodology
This chapter presents the research design, data gathering procedure, and statistical
test. The researchers described the research design that was chosen for the purpose of the
current study and the reasons for the said choice. The instrument that was used for data
collection is also described along with the procedures that were followed to carry out the
study. Lastly, the statistical test that was used in the process was also discussed.
Research Design
For the present study, the researchers decided to utilize a research design that is
deemed appropriate for the study at hand, due to that reason the researchers decided to
utilize the Post Test only design since the posttest only design enabled the proponents to
properly determine the effectiveness of the device P.E.D.A.L which was being tested in the
current study.
Respondents of the Study
The target respondents of P.E.D.A.L. was the cyclist from Labo - Daet, Camarines
Norte. The central objective of this study was to determine the necessity, practicability and
most especially the acceptability of implementing the device P.E.D.A.L. It also aimed to
provide an alternative source of energy for small appliances that can aid the aforementioned
respondents. Thus, it may reduce accidents and misfortunes with regards to energy, while
also benefiting the cyclist in Labo - Daet, Camarines Norte. Thus, due to declared reasons
it was determined that persons who can best justify the accpetability of using this device
was the cyclist from Labo - Daet, Camarines Norte.
29
Sources of Data
For the current study two sources of data was utilized which namely are the primary
source and secondary source. The primary source contained experimentation and
observations while on the other hand the secondary source of data is from reliable sources
such as journals, books, and others studies from the internet. The experimental and
observation processes was employed in order to determine whether the device Prolific
Energy-generating Device Acquiring source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L) could become
an effective alternative source of power that can be utilized as an effective source of energy
for cellphones and other small appliances.
Sampling Design
For the current study, the researchers decided to utilize the purposive sampling
design in order to choose the most appropriate respondents that could properly determine
the rate of acceptability of the device P.E.D.A.L. Due to the reason mentioned the
researchers specifically chose cyclists as the respondents since bicycles served as a major
component in the creation of the whole device.
Data Gathering Procedure
This part included all the steps done in the preparation and testing of the samples
needed in the study. To start the experimentation process, the bicycle that was used
undergone a cleaning process with special regards to the most essential or important parts
that will be utilized in the device P.E.D.A.L. Afterwards, the researchers gathered all of
the materials and parts such the main components which are the alternator, 1000 watts’
inverter, two pieces of six volts lead acid batteries, number fourteen American gauge wire,
30
sprocket, bicycle chain and as well as the secondary components that was needed for the
construction of the device P.E.D.A.L. namely the electrical tape, bolts, screw, and angle
flat bar aluminum. After the collection of all the needed materials and ensuring the essential
parts were well cleaned, the alternator which has the role to generate the power was
attached to the first gear of the mountain bicycle, the process could only be completed by
the mounting of brackets which would generally support the weight of the alternator. Take
note that a number sixteen sprocket was needed to be attached to the alternator. After the
sprocket has been attached, the alternator should be fixed to the previously mounted
brackets, afterwards a bicycle chain was utilized in order to connect the alternator to the
first gear of the bike through the usage of the sprocket which directly gathered the energy
that was generated while pedaling. Next, after the process of collecting energy two pieces
of six-volt lead acid battery should be provided which would serve as the storage of the
electricity. The proponents must attach the battery at the back portion of the bicycle in
order to store the electricity that was being produced by the alternator. For the next step,
an inverter was installed to the bicycle due to the reason that, with the use of inverter the
relatively large voltage would be converted which would later result in the lowering of the
previous voltage into the desired electrical output which was five volts. After the
attachment all necessary parts that would produce and store electricity, the electrical output
of the device can be gathered through the usage of an outlet located in the back portion of
the inverter which was be specifically created for mobile phones and small appliances to
be charged. To determine if any electrical output was being produced the researchers
included a voltmeter.
31
To determine whether the device P.E.D.A.L produces effective electrical output the
researchers determined the electrical output that will be produced in terms of the rpm or
the rotation per minute specifically 50 rpm, 80 rpm, and 100 rpm.
After, gathering the data through the process of experimentation the researchers
subjected the previously collected data into a statistical treatment which is the mean test.
Statistical Tool
The proponents utilized mean as a statistical tool to see how the individual data are
related and different from one another. The main purpose of the statistical tool was to make
a comparison which will discern the efficiency between the different electrical outputs of
the device derived from the different levels of rotation per minute (rpm). Moreover,
weighted mean was utilized by the proponents in order to determine the level of
acceptability of the device Prolific Energy-generating Device Acquiring source from
Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L.)
Materials, Tools, and Equipment
A.
Materials

12 Volts Lead Acid Battery

Voltmeter

American Wire Gauge

Car Alternator

1,000 W Inverter

Bicycle Chain

Sprocket
32

Electrical Tape

Screws and Bolts

Angle Flat Bar Aluminum

Switch
B. Tools

Pliers

Screw Driver

Metal Saw

Wire Cutter

Wrench

Scissors
C. Equipment

Multi – tester

Welding Machine
Project Design
This part of research showed the different view and perspective of the device
P.E.D.A.L. It includes the features and parts of the components such as, 12 V lead acid
battery, 1,000 W inverter, alternator, sprocket, bicycle chain, voltmeter, American wire
gauge and switch.
33
Figure 3. Right Side View of P.E.D.A.L
34
Figure 4. Batteries and Inverter
Figure 5. Left Side View of P.E.D.A.L
35
Figure 6. Overview of P.E.D.A.L
Figure 7. Top View of P.E.D.A.L
36
Figure 8. Inverter
Figure 9. Back View of P.E.D.A.L
37
Figure 10. Placement of Batteries and Inverter
Figure 11. Voltmeter
38
Data Analysis and Interpretation
In this study, showed the results of the observation and experiment conducted by
the researchers. It further explained the data and information gathered in testing the
P.E.D.A.L. Moreover, it distinguished the efficiency of the electrical output of the device
depending on the given revolution per minute (rpm) and its level of acceptability.
TABLE 1
Efficiency of P.E.D.A.L
TRIALS
Levels of rpm
1
2
3
MEAN
50 rpm
7.56
7.60
7.44
7.53
80 rpm
5.80
5.78
5.60
5.73
100 rpm
4.63
4.70
4.52
4.62
Table 1 shows the result of the electrical output acquired from different levels of
rpm. The researchers conducted three trials to test the device efficiency. The result shows
that after conducting three trials in different levels of rpm in the first level, which was 50
rpm the mean was 7.53, on 80 rpm the mean that was gathered was 5.73, and the last level
of rpm, which was 100 rpm the mean was 4.62.
According to the result showed in the Table 1 it can be inferred that the higher the
rpm, the lesser the electrical output.
Higher revolutions per minute equate to more fuel burnt in the same amount of time
and more power produced. Because of this, most consider higher RPMs racing RPMs.
39
Running at lower RPMs equates to higher torque and thus lower horsepower, while
making higher RPM power outputs less torque and higher top horsepower. (Mazlan R.
et.al. 2017)
Table 2
Summary of the Weighted Mean Computation of the survey on the Rate of
Satisfied (3)
Less
Satisfied (1)
Highly
Satisfied (4)
1. Durability
3
4
3
4.0
Highly
Accepted
2. Ease of
Operation
3
5
2
4.1
Very Highly
Accepted
3. Cost
Effectiveness
3
4
3
4.0
Highly
Accepted
4.0
Highly
Accepted
A. Rate of
Satisfaction to
the following:
Moderately
Satisfied (2)
Very
Highly
Satisfied (5)
Acceptability
Grand
Weighted
Mean:
Legend: Rating
4.1 - 5.0
=
Interpretation
Very Highly Satisfied
3.1 - 4.0
=
Highly Satisfied
2.1 - 3.0
=
Satisfied
1.1 - 2.0
=
Moderately Satisfied
0.1 -1.0
=
Less Satisfied
Weighted
Mean(x)
Interpretati
on
40
Table 2 shows the ratings of satisfaction in which it has three divisions, the durability,
ease of operation, and cost effectiveness. There were ten respondents and three of them
rate the durability, ease of operation and cost effectiveness, very highly satisfied. Four of
the ten respondents rate the durability and cost effectiveness highly satisfied, and five
respondents’ rate ease of operation highly satisfied. Three of the respondents rate the
durability and cost effectiveness satisfied, while two of the respondents’ rate the ease of
operation satisfied. The weighted mean for durability was 4.0 means it is highly accepted,
for the ease of operation the weighted mean was 4.1 means it is very highly accepted, and
for the cost effectiveness the weighted mean was 4.0 means it is highly accepted. All in all,
the grand weighted mean was 4.0 means it is highly accepted.
41
Notes
Rozdman et al. (2017) Experimental study on the effect of alternator speed to the car
charging system, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka Retrieved from:
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.matecconferences.org/articles/matecconf/pdf/2017/04/matecconf_aigev2017_01076.pdf
&ved=2ahUKEwjM6uOog43oAhWbdXAKHfsJCgAQFjAAegQIAxAB&usg=A
OvVaw3Wy8qMOosbTYt7ksXZwLws
42
Chapter 4
Results and Reflection
In this chapter, summary, findings and conclusions were laid out to deliberate the
outcome of this study. Furthermore, the researchers included their recommendation and
reflection on the capstone project for the improvisation of the study.
Summary
The primary aim of the study is to determine whether the use of the device
Prolific Energy generating Device Acquiring source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L) can
become an effective alternative source of power for small appliances and cellphones.
Specifically, the current study aims to answer the following questions: (1) What are the
components that are needed in order to create the device Prolific Energy-generating Device
Acquiring source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L)? (2) How efficient is the electrical output
of Prolific Energy-generating Device Acquiring source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L.) in
terms of (a) 50 rpm, (b) 80 rpm, (c) 100 rpm. (3) What is the level of acceptability of the
respondents on the device Prolific Energy-generating Device Acquiring source from
Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L.) in terms of (a) durability, (b) ease of operation, (c) cost
effectiveness. Based on the research questions the researchers formulated the hypothesis
of, the Prolific Energy-generating Device Acquiring source from Locomotion (P.E.D.A.L.)
can’t be utilized as an effective alternative source of energy for small appliances such as
cellphones.
In the present study the researchers decided to utilized the research design post-test
only which best suited the general purpose of the study at hand. Furthermore, the
43
researchers employed the observation and experimentation processes that served as the
data gathering technique. The experimental process was composed of a test that determined
the efficiency of the device (P.E.D.A.L) through the usage of different levels of rotation
per minute (rpm). After all data were gathered through the use of the two data gathering
technique the previously gathered data were subjected into statistical treatments namely
mean and weighted mean for better analysis.
Findings
In order to create the device, P.E.D.A.L. the components that served as main
components were alternator, two pieces of six volts lead acid battery, 1000 watts’ inverter,
no. 14 American gauge wire (AWG), sprocket, bicycle chain, and alternator while on the
other hand the secondary materials were screws, bolts and nuts, electrical tape, and angle
flat bar aluminum.
Based on the results that were gathered during the experimental process it was
inferred that among all other level of revolution per minutes (rpm), the lowest rpm which
was 50 rpm generated the most efficient amount of electricity with a mean of 7.53 volts.
While the fastest rpm which was 100 rpm generated the lowest amount of electricity with
an average 4.62 volts. Lastly, the level of rpm which was 80 rpm performed fairly
generating an estimated 5.37 volts.
Centered on the data that was gathered through the survey process the rate of
acceptability of the device P.E.D.A.L was interpreted to be highly accepted with a general
weighted mean of 4.0. While in terms of durability the interpretation was highly accepted
with a weighted mean of 4.0. Additionally, in terms of the ease of operation the device was
44
rated as Very Highly Accepted with a weighted mean of 4.1. Lastly, in terms of cost
effectiveness the device P.E.D.A.L was rated as highly accepted with a mean of 4.0.
Conclusion
Based on the facts revealed in the findings of the experiment, the researcher were
able to conclude these statements to further explain the results garnered during the
experimentation and observation of the researchers. With this, it is easy to see the outcome
happened along the process of making the device P.E.D.A.L.
The P.E.D.A.L. has been found out that it can be an alternative source of energy
through the usage of 12 V Lead Acid Battery, 1,000 W Inverter, Car Alternator, Voltmeter,
Sprocket and chain. With these components, the researchers were able to produce an
efficient device producing electricity.
During the calculation of the efficiency of electrical output it has been found out
that the most efficient in producing electricity was the 50 revolution per minute (rpm)
compared to other level of revolution per minute (rpm). Due to the reason, that it acquired
the highest mean of 7.53 V.
After conducting the survey process, the researchers found out that the level of
acceptability in durability acquired a mean of 4.0, while on the other hand, ease of operation
and cost – effectiveness acquired a mean of 4.1 and 4.0 respectively. Overall the general
weighted mean on the rate of acceptability of the device P.E.D.A.L was 4.0 which
interpreted the data as highly accepted.
45
Recommendation
In the light of the conclusions derived from the study, the following are recommended for
future researchers:
1. The usage of materials with a higher quality is highly recommended in order to
ensure a highly efficient device.
2. A longer time should be spent during the experimental process in order to ensure
a more in-depth analysis in the uses and capabilities of the device.
3. Other variety of bicycles should also be utilized in order to broaden the scope of
the test to in order to determine if the device is really efficient.
4. Addition of different variety of test is highly recommended in order to ensure the
measurements of the different parameters of the device.
For Stakeholders
1. In order to address the scarcity of the materials the device the stakeholders are
encourage to lend a hand in order to better improve the quality of the study.
2. The researchers encourage the stakeholders to utilize the devices such as
alternators in order to create alternative sources of energy.
Reflection on the Capstone Study
The primary goal of the current capstone project was to create a beneficial device
that will exploit the use of derived human kinetic energy in order to generate electricity
with the aid of bicycles. With all honesty, during the first phase of the study the researchers
doubted that the selected topic might somehow end up as a failure, but after a lengthy
background research about the concepts of the study at hand, it was determined that a lot
46
of researchers and fellow students alike utilized the same ideas and concepts that the
researchers aims to give life unto, but the related study sadly only on treadmill and
stationary bikes not on moving ones. However, the proponents decided to develop a new
concept which integrated the already established ideas to the novel innovations that the
researchers had in mind. So in pursuit of an innovation, and the willingness to finish the
study at hand, reading useful theories and related studies were highly practiced.
Nowadays, the usage of fossil fuels is boundless which sadly served as a
contributing factor to global warming, thus the usage of a more sustainable and clean
renewable energy sources is continuously capturing the attention of not only governments
but also consumers. Furthermore, due to the continuous depletion of fossil fuel which are
non-renewable sources of energy triggers the demand of sustainable renewable source of
energy. The main objective of the current study is to determine whether human energy
could be potentially utilized as workable and useful source of alternative energy. The
researchers believed that through the extensive knowledge that was acquired through the
continuous understanding and researchers regarding the concepts behind the topic at hand
became sufficient in order to understand the study during the undertaking of the whole
research and the testing proper.
During the realization of the device P.E.D.A.L the researchers faced several
challenges and trials which includes the identification of the proper materials will be
utilized in order to create the device that would bring out the best result possible. Despite
of all the misunderstanding, inconveniences that every member have faced as well as the
different problems that arise due to the availability of one another, anxiety and even
financial status struggles during the whole creation of the device and paper works, team
47
work served as the main weapon that enable the researchers to overcome every difficulty
and challenges that came along. While on the other hand, the proponents analyzed and
scrutinized every detail of the results of the testing proper in order to provide the best
possible answer.
Generally, after every hard-work, every mishap, every misunderstandings and
sleepless nights during the creation of the device and papers were all worth it at the end,
because after the testing proper, the results of the study indicated that human kinetic energy
is a good alternative and reliable source of energy since the experiment gave out positive
results, results that are generally better than what the researchers were expecting.
Nevertheless, the current study gave the proponents enormous amounts knowledge and
functional experiences in the knowledge that can be imparted through the usage of science
further enabling the researchers to understand that there is a whole new world out there
waiting to be discovered.
48
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