WO2023248189A1

WO2023248189A1 - Sub-surface energy system

Info

Publication number: WO2023248189A1
Application number: PCT/IB2023/056481
Authority: WO
Inventors: Idan DINOVETSKY; Benjamin SAKOUN
Original assignee: Smart Roads Ltd
Priority date: 2022-06-23
Filing date: 2023-06-23
Publication date: 2023-12-28

Abstract

A system for installation under a surface including an enclosure including an interface layer configured for attachment to the surface, and an energy generation device configured for removeable insertion into the enclosure, wherein the energy generation device is further configured to generate energy according to pressure applied to the surface.

Description

SUB-SURFACE ENERGY SYSTEM

FIELD

Embodiments disclosed herein relate to systems and methods for energy generation and more specifically sub-surface energy generation.

BACKGROUND

“Smart” roadways and pavements have already been deployed worldwide and may incorporate sub-surface components such as energy generators, heat harvesting systems, electromagnetic vehicle chargers, and so forth. These sub-surface components are typically buried under the surface of a roadway or pavement.

In cases where a buried component fails or stops working as expected, the current solution is typically to dig up the surrounding surface, replace or repair the defective component, and then reconstruct the surface. This component maintenance process may be costly, time-consuming, and difficult due to the disruption caused to operating roadways and pavements. These associated difficulties may actually discourage deployment of such subsurface components.

It would therefore be desirable to be able to provide smart roadway or pavement components that can be more easily maintained.

SUMMARY

This disclosure describes systems and methods for sub-surface energy generation. Energy generation may be provided under surfaces. The system as disclosed herein may be configured to enable maintenance of the sub-surface energy generation components without requiring destruction and reconstruction of the surface.

Energy generation may be provided using energy generating modular layered piezoelectric transducer assemblies/devices provided under roads and walking surfaces to recapture expelled kinetic energy and convert this into electrical energy. Enclosures formed of hollow steel profiles may be buried under the surface and may include rails, a pulley mechanism, and hydraulic mechanisms to support the surface while enabling insertion and removal of energy generating and supplementary devices.

Energy generating and supplementary devices may be linked together by hinged links and service hatches on the side of the roadway or pavement may enable safe and economical removal/insertion and maintenance of the sub-surface assemblies without requiring demolishing and/or reconstructing of the roadway/pavement.

Linked energy generating and supplementary devices may be folded or rolled for removal/transportation from an under-surface enclosure and unrolled/unfolded into an undersurface enclosure at an installation site. Where maintenance is required, the transportation unit’s pulley mechanism may extract the linked energy generating and supplementary devices from the buried enclosures.

The sub-surface assembly as disclosed herein may accommodate energy generating and supplementary devices in single or multiple layers. Supplementary devices may include energy transmitters, loT systems, sensor arrays, communication systems, heat capture systems and other systems, thus transforming the roadway/pavement into loT and energy generation infrastructure. Energy generated by the energy generating modules may be converted into electricity for immediate use by local electricity grids or converted and stored using energy storage.

The sub-surface system as disclosed herein may be installed under a range of surfaces where the surface user (vehicle/pedestrian) traffic/activity on the surface in the form of vibrations and stress may be converted into electricity, the surfaces including but not limited to a roadway, pavement, flooring, dance floor, train rails, and so forth. The term “surface” as used herein may refer to any of these or other surface types having pedestrian and/or vehicular traffic thereon.

Consistent with disclosed embodiments, a system for installation under a surface includes: an enclosure including an interface layer configured for attachment to the surface; and an energy generation device configured for removable insertion into the enclosure, wherein the energy generation device is further configured to generate energy corresponding to a force applied to the surface. In some embodiments, the system further includes a hydraulic system supporting the interface layer.

In some embodiments, the system further includes a sub-enclosure, wherein the enclosure includes an opening cut into an upper surface of the enclosure for moveable installation of the sub-enclosure therein. In some embodiments, the sub-enclosure is in contact with the interface layer. In some embodiments, the sub-enclosure is positioned on top of the energy generation device to transmit a force applied to the surface to the energy generation device.

In some embodiments, the system further includes a supplementary device. In some embodiments, the supplementary device is removably installed in the sub-enclosure. In some embodiments, the supplementary device includes one of an loT device, a sensor, or a wireless charger. In some embodiments, the system further includes a service area configured to enable removing or installing of the energy generation device and/or the supplementary device.

In some embodiments, the enclosure includes rails for slidable positioning of the energy generation device and/or the supplementary device thereon. In some embodiments, force applied to the surface is provided by surface users.

Consistent with disclosed embodiments, an energy generation device includes: a plurality of layer plates stacked in a column, wherein each plate includes a plurality of transducer guides; a plurality of piezoelectric transducers positioned in the transducer guides of each plate; a plurality of force guides positioned between the piezoelectric transducers of adjacent plates such that a force applied to the uppermost layer plate is transmitted to each of piezoelectric transducers in each layer plate. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric transducers generate electrical energy according to the transmitted force.

In some embodiments, the piezoelectric transducers are electrically wired together in order to provide the generated energy to energy storage, or a load, or an electricity grid. In some embodiments, the device further includes a spring positioned between an uppermost layer plate and lowermost layer plate.

Consistent with disclosed embodiments, A sub-surface energy system includes: the energy generation device; and a tile plate mounted on top of the device. In some embodiments, the tile plate includes a ceramic tile or rubber or plastic.

Consistent with disclosed embodiments, a method for maintenance of a sub-surface energy system as disclosed above may include accessing a service area, removing a supplementary device from a sub-enclosure and/or removing an energy generation device from an enclosure.

In some embodiments, the maintenance may include repairing or maintaining the removed supplementary device and/or energy generation device. In some embodiments, the maintenance may include replacing the repaired supplementary device and/or energy generation device via the service area. In some embodiments, the maintenance may include replacing the removed supplementary device and/or energy generation device with a new supplementary device and/or energy generation device via the service area. In some embodiments, the service area may be covered with a service hatch. In some embodiments, the removal and/or replacement may be performed using a dedicated vehicle for this task.

In some embodiments, the removing and/or replacing may be performed without damaging or otherwise disturbing the surface above the maintained supplementary device and/or energy generation device or disturbing the surface users using the surface above the maintained supplementary device and/or energy generation device.

Consistent with disclosed embodiments, an energy system for installation under a surface may include: an enclosure configured to be installed under the surface; and an energy generation device configured to be removably installed and/or removed into and/or from the enclosure after the enclosure is installed under the surface and/or after the surface has been formed on top of the enclosure, wherein the energy generation device is further configured to generate energy corresponding to a force applied to the surface, wherein a greater force may generate a greater amount of energy and/or electric charge and/or electric current.

In some embodiments, the system may further include a hydraulic system supporting an interface layer between the enclosure and the surface. In some embodiments, the system may further include a hydraulic system directly supporting the surface. In some embodiments, the system may further include a sub-enclosure, wherein the enclosure includes an opening in an upper surface of the enclosure for moveable installation of the sub-enclosure therein.

In some embodiments, the sub-enclosure may be in contact with the interface layer. In some embodiments, the sub-enclosure may be positioned on top of the energy generation device to transmit a force applied to the surface to the energy generation device. In some embodiments, the system may further include a supplementary device. In some embodiments, the supplementary device may be removably installed in the sub-enclosure. In some embodiments, the supplementary device may include one of an loT device, a sensor, or a wireless charger.

In some embodiments, the system may further include a service area configured for removing or installing of the energy generation device and/or the supplementary device from/into the enclosure. In some embodiments, the enclosure may include rails for slidable positioning of the energy generation device and/or the supplementary device thereon. In some embodiments, force applied to the surface may be provided by surface users.

Consistent with disclosed embodiments, an energy generating device may include: a plurality of layer plates stacked in a column, wherein each plate includes a plurality of transducer guides; a plurality of piezoelectric transducers positioned in the transducer guides of each plate; and a plurality of force guides positioned between the piezoelectric transducers of adjacent plates such that a force applied to the uppermost layer plate is transmitted to each of piezoelectric transducers in each layer plate.

In some embodiments, the piezoelectric transducers may generate electrical energy corresponding to the applied force. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric transducers may be electrically wired together in order to provide the generated energy to energy storage, or a load, or an electricity grid. In some embodiments, the energy generating device may further includes a spring positioned between an uppermost layer plate and lowermost layer plate.

Consistent with disclosed embodiments, a sub-surface energy system may include: the energy generating device of described above; and a tile plate mounted on top of the device. In some embodiments, the tile plate may include a ceramic tile or rubber or plastic. In some embodiments, the system may further include a light source positioned beneath or within the tile plate and powered by the energy generating device. In some embodiments, the system may be configured to activate the light source in response to force applied by a surface user on the tile plate.

Consistent with disclosed embodiments, a method for energy generation under a surface may include: installing an enclosure under the surface or forming the surface on top of the enclosure; and installing an energy generation device, wherein the energy generation device may be further configured to generate energy corresponding to a force applied to the surface by surface users. In some embodiments, the energy generation device may be configured to be inserted into the enclosure without disrupting the surface thereon or removed from the enclosure without disrupting the surface thereon. In some embodiments, disrupting the surface may include breaking, cutting, or otherwise damaging the surface.

In some embodiments, the method may further includes installing and/or removing a supplementary device into/from the enclosure without disrupting the surface. In some embodiments, the supplementary device may include one of an loT device, a sensor, or a wireless charger. In some embodiments, the installing or removing of the energy generation device or supplementary device may be performed via a service area adjacent to the surface.

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description below. It may be understood that this Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features will be apparent from the description and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles. In the drawings:

FIG. 1A is a block diagram of a sub-surface energy system 100 according to at least some implementations;

FIGS. 1B-1I and IK are illustrative drawings showing sub-surface energy systems according to alternatively least some implementations;

FIG. I is an illustrative drawing showing flexible components of sub-surface energy systems according to at least some implementations;

FIGS 2A-2E show exemplary embodiments of an energy generator according to at least some implementations;

FIGS. 3A-3D are illustrative drawings showing sub-surface energy systems according to at least some implementations;

FIGS. 4A-4D are illustrative drawings showing sub-surface energy systems including light sources according to at least some implementations; and

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram showing a process for installation and use of a system for energy generation under a surface according to some implementations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to non-limiting examples of a sub-surface energy system disclosed herein, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The examples are described below by referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements. When like reference numerals are shown, corresponding description(s) are not repeated, and the interested reader is referred to the previously discussed figure(s) for a description of the like element(s).

Aspects of this disclosure may provide a technical solution to the challenging technical problem of sub-surface energy systems and may relate to a system for providing maintainable sub-surface energy devices and supplementary devices with the system having at least one processor (e.g., processor, processing circuit or other processing structure described herein), including methods, systems, devices, and computer-readable media. For ease of discussion, example methods are described below with the understanding that aspects of the example methods apply equally to systems, devices, and computer-readable media. For example, some aspects of such methods may be implemented by a computing device or software running thereon. The computing device may include at least one processor (e.g., a CPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, ASIC, or any circuitry for performing logical operations on input data) to perform the example methods. Other aspects of such methods may be implemented over a network (e.g., a wired network, a wireless network, or both).

As another example, some aspects of such methods may be implemented as operations or program codes in a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The operations or program codes may be executed by at least one processor. Non-transitory computer readable media, as described herein, may be implemented as any combination of hardware, firmware, software, or any medium capable of storing data that is readable by any computing device with a processor for performing methods or operations represented by the stored data. In a broadest sense, the example methods are not limited to particular physical or electronic instrumentalities, but rather may be accomplished using many differing instrumentalities.

FIG. 1A is a block diagram of a sub-surface energy system 100 according to at least some implementations. FIGS. 1B-1I and IK are illustrative drawings showing sub-surface energy systems according to at least some implementations. FIG. 1 J is an illustrative drawing showing flexible components of sub-surface energy systems according to at least some implementations.

As shown in FIG. 1A, a sub-surface energy system 100 may include one or more of a sub-surface assembly 110, a service area 116 and a service hatch 118. Sub-surface assembly 110 may include one or more of a surface interface layer 120, an enclosure 122, a hydraulic system 124, a controller 126, an energy generator 128, an energy processing unit, 129, and supplementary devices 130. Supplementary devices 130 may include one or more of internet of things (loT) devices 132, sensors 134, and wireless chargers 136. While sub-surface energy system 100 is presented herein with specific components and modules, it should be understood by one skilled in the art, that the architectural configuration of system 100 as shown is simply one possible configuration and that other configurations with more or fewer components are possible. As referred to herein, the “components” of sub-surface energy system 100 may include one or more of the modules, devices, or services shown in FIG. 1 A as being included within sub-surface energy system 100.

Sub-surface assembly 110 may be positioned under a surface 106. As shown in FIGS. 1B-1D, surface 106 may include but is not limited to a roadway 101 for travel thereon of surface users 102 such as vehicles, or a pavement 103 for travel thereon of surface users 102 including pedestrians or light vehicles such as but not limited to scooters, bicycles, and so forth (all collectively referred to as “surface users” 102 herein). As shown in FIG. IB, surface 106, here illustrated as a roadway 101, may include but is not limited to a surface course 108, such as asphalt or concrete, a binder course 112, and one or more sub-layers 114, here shown as three sub-layers 114-1, 114-2, and 114-3. Sub-layers 114-1 to 114-3 may respectively correspond, for example, to a base course, subbase course and subgrade course. For simplicity, the remaining figures do not include illustration of roadway courses 112 and 114.

As shown in FIGS. IB to ID, sub-surface energy system 100 may include multiple subsurface assemblies 110 installed adjacent to one another under surface 106, where the installation may be perpendicular to the direction of travel of surface users 102 on surface 106. In some embodiments, the installation may be parallel to the direction of travel of surface users 102 on surface 106. In some embodiments, the installation may be angled relative to the direction of travel of surface users 102. In some embodiments, sub-surface assemblies 110 may have varying widths according to the configuration of sub-surface assemblies. In some embodiments, sub-surface assembly 110 may have a width “W” of between 30-60cm. In some embodiments, a sub-surface assembly 110 may have a length “L” extending substantially across the width of a roadway such as shown in FIG. 1C.

Sub-surface assemblies may be configured for maintenance via service areas 116. It should be appreciated that such a configuration may enable installation, repair, replacement, or upgrade of sub-surface assemblies, or components thereof via service areas 116 without the need for digging up of surface 106, and with minimal or no disruption of vehicle or pedestrian traffic.

In some embodiments, service areas 116 may be accessed via service hatch 118. Service hatch 118 may have the form of a ground-access cover or manhole cover as known in the art.

FIGS. 1E-1I illustrate various embodiments of sub-surface assemblies 110. FIGS. 1E- II show surface user 102 in order to illustrate the positioning of sub-surface assemblies 110 relative to traffic flow. Surface users 102 and the components of sub-surface assemblies 110 may not be shown to scale in the figures.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1E-1I, surface interface layer 120 may be fixedly attached to a surface course 108 of surface 106 for example, using a bonding agent such as a glue. In some embodiments, surface interface layer 120 may be formed of a metal or plastic material. In some embodiments, the thickness of surface interface layer 120 may depend on the required strength of surface interface layer 120. In some embodiments, surface interface layer may include ribs (not shown) to increase stiffness. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. IK, a single surface interface layer 120 may cover one or more sub-surface assemblies 110. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. IK, surface interface layers 120 have varying dimensions and may cover a single or multiple sub-surface assemblies 110. The lateral dimensions of surface interface layer 120 as shown in FIG. IK may be chosen in order to provide broader or narrower distribution of force applied by surface users 102 across a surface interface layer 120. In some embodiments, interface layer 120 may also function as surface 106, i.e.: without a surface course 108, and interface layer 120 may be provided with an appropriate surface finish (asphalt, tile, brick) according to the application.

Enclosures 122 and sub-enclosures 123 may be configured to enable insertion and removal of energy generators 128 and/or supplementary devices 130 from under surface 106. In some embodiments, enclosures 122 and sub-enclosures 123 are formed from a metal. In some embodiments, enclosures 122 and sub-enclosures 123 are formed from steel rectangular hollow sections (RHS). In some embodiments, enclosures 122 and sub-enclosures 123 are formed from preformed metal in rectangular, or cylindrical, or other suitable shapes. In some embodiments, enclosures 122 may be fixedly attached to one another such as with connecting bars 127 (FIG. 1H) in order to create a larger structural element that resists subsiding or moving under surface 106 despite constant forces being applied by the traffic on surface 106. In some embodiments, cavities between enclosures 122 may be filled with a filling material (such as but not limited to concrete) to impart greater rigidity into system 110 such that excess unharvested energy from the forces applied to surface 106 is better absorbed by the substrates surrounding and beneath sub-surface energy system 100 to better prevent subsiding or moving under surface 106.

In some embodiments, enclosure 122 may include rails 152 formed along the entire inner side length or portions of an inner side length of enclosure 122. In some embodiments, energy generators 128 and/or supplementary devices 130 may include a slot 153 corresponding to rail 152 to enable sliding energy generators 128 and/or supplementary devices 130 along rails 152 for insertion and removal of energy generators 128 and/or supplementary devices 130 from enclosure 122 while enclosure remains in position under surface 106. In some embodiments, enclosure 122 may include smoke detection and fire extinguishing systems and/or gas venting systems for safety, in case of malfunction or failure of a component of system 100. In some embodiments, supplementary devices 130 may be housed within sub-enclosure

123. As shown in FIGS. E, F and H, enclosure 122 may including an opening in the upper surface of enclosure 122 for moveable installation of sub-enclosure 123 therein. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. E, F and H, sub-enclosure 123 may be in contact with surface interface layer 120 on an upper side of sub-enclosure 123 and with a force plate 150 on a bottom side of sub-enclosure 123. In some embodiments, force plate 150 may be in contact with energy generator 128. Supplementary devices 130 are thus protected from the load on surface 106 by being enclosed in sub-enclosure 123 to thus reduce the manufacturing costs of supplementary devices 130, reduce the risk of malfunction of supplementary devices 130, and extend the lifetime of supplementary devices 130.

Hydraulic system 124, may be in contact with and substantially support surface interface layer 120 and surface 106 thereon in a “zero” state, i.e.: when no surface user 102 or pedestrian is present on surface 106 above sub-surface assembly 110. In some embodiments, hydraulic system 124 may include hydraulic pistons 154 that may be in contact with and substantially support surface interface layer 120 and surface 106 thereon. Alternatively, in some embodiments, one or more springs (not shown) may be used instead of hydraulic system

124. In some embodiments, when surface user 102 or pedestrian travels on surface 106 over sub-surface assembly 110, hydraulic system 124 may be configured to allow limited downward movement of surface interface layer 120. In some embodiments, hydraulic system 124 may be configured to allow limited downward movement so that surface users are not aware of the downward (or upward) movement. In some embodiments, hydraulic system 124 may be configured to allow limited downward movement related to the compression of the surrounding substrate in case of failed energy generator 128. In some embodiments, hydraulic system 124 may be configured to allow limited upward movement of surface interface layer 120 which connected to sub-enclosure 123 in order to install or remove energy generators 128. In some embodiments, hydraulic system 124 may be configured to allow limited downward movement of between 1-2 mm.

In some embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. IE and 1G, a dual hydraulic system 124 may support therebetween a single column of energy generators 128 and/or supplementary devices 130. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 1H and II, a dual hydraulic system 124 may support therebetween multiple columns of energy generators 128 and/or supplementary devices 130. It should be appreciated that other configurations are contemplated, and the configurations illustrated herein should not be considered limiting. Energy generator 128 may be a device configured to transform mechanical energy such as a stress applied to a part of energy generator 128, into electrical energy (the terms, energy or electric charge may also be used herein). In some embodiments, energy generator 128 may include one or more piezoelectric transducers. In some embodiments, energy generator 128 has the form as shown in FIGS. 2A-2E and as described further hereinbelow. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. IE, IF, and 1H, sub-surface assembly 110 may include a single layer of energy generators 128. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 1G and II, sub-surface assembly 110 may include multiple layers of energy generators 128 (three are shown but this number should not be considered limiting). In some embodiments, where multiple layers of energy generators 128 are provided, a force plate connector 158 may be provided that is fixedly attached on an upper surface to interface layer 120 and on a lower surface to force plate 150. loT devices 132 may include but are not limited to communication devices for car-road interface, car energy consumption management, infrastructure energy consumption management, law enforcement communication, and so forth.

Sensors 134 may include but are not limited to water/moisture sensors, vibration sensors, humidity sensors, heat sensors, speed sensors, weight sensors and so forth. In some embodiments, sensors 134 or portions thereof may be embedded into surface interface layer 120 where the sensor functionality requires a close proximity to surface 106.

Wireless chargers 136 may be configured to provide inductive charging to surface users 102 travelling over wireless chargers 136. When wireless chargers 136 are provided, enclosures 122 and 123 and surface interface layer 120 may be formed of a polymer so as not to interfere with the induction effect.

In some embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. IE, IF, and 1H, sub-surface assembly 110 may include a double layer of supplementary devices 130. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. II, sub-surface assembly 110 may include multiple layers of supplementary devices 130 (three are shown but this number should not be considered limiting).

In some embodiments, system 100 may include an energy processing unit 129 configured to receive energy generated by energy generators 128 and to store or transform the received energy.

Controller 126 may be a computing device as defined herein and may manage the operation of the components of system 100. Where system 100 is said herein to provide specific functionality or perform actions, it should be understood that the functionality or actions may be performed by controller 126 that may call on other components of system 100 and/or external or other components in system 100. Controller 126 may include a non- transitory computer readable medium containing instructions that when executed by the at least one processor are configured to perform the functions and/or operations necessary to provide the functionality described herein.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. IF and 1J, multiple energy generators 128 and/or supplementary devices 130 may be provided within each layer 160 of sub-surface assembly 110. In some embodiments, the multiple energy generators 128 may be linked together by hinged links 156 to form linked energy generators 128. Multiple supplementary devices 130 may be similarly linked together by hinged links 156 to form linked supplementary devices 130.

In use, linked energy generators 128 and/or linked supplementary devices 130 may be inserted or removed from enclosure 122 by sliding in or out along rails 152 and via service area 116 in a direction such as shown by arrows “C”. In a non-limiting example, FIG. 1 J illustrates removal of a first layer of linked supplementary devices 130 via service area 116. It should be appreciated that such a configuration may enable installation, removal (and reinstallation) for maintenance of energy generators 128 and/or supplementary devices 130 with minimal or no disturbance of traffic travelling on surface 106 and with no destruction of surface 106. In some embodiments, a pulley (not shown) configured to pull out linked energy generators 128 or linked supplementary devices 130 may be provided on a service vehicle that could stop by hatch 118 for performing removal.

In use, and as indicated by arrow “A” of FIG. IE, the weight of a surface user 102 (or pedestrian) travelling over surface 106 in direction “B” may push down on surface 106 that may cause a downward movement of surface interface layer 120 that may in turn cause a downward movement on sub-enclosure 123, that may in turn cause a downward movement of force plate 150 to thereby apply a force on energy generator 128 that would convert the applied force into an electric charge. It should be appreciated that system 100 may therefore provide for conversion of the kinetic energy of a surface user or pedestrian into electrical energy while enabling maintenance of the system components without disrupting surface 106 or traffic thereon.

As above, in some embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 1G and II, sub-surface assembly 110 may include one or multiple layers of energy generators 128. In use, the weight of a surface user 102 (or pedestrian) travelling over surface 106 in direction “B” may push down on surface 106 that may cause a downward movement of surface interface layer 120 that may in turn cause a downward movement of force plate connector 158 and/or force plate 150 to thereby apply a force on one or more of energy generators 128 that would in turn convert the applied force into an electric charge. In some embodiments, surface interface layer 120 applies a force directly to one of force plate connector 158 or force plate 150 (in an embodiment, where either of force plate connector 158 or force plate 150 is not provided) to thereby apply a force on one or more of energy generators 128.

FIGS 2A-2E show exemplary embodiments of an energy generator 128 according to at least some implementations. Energy generator 128 may be formed from force plate 150, layer plates 170 and lower plate 172. In some embodiments, force plate 150 may have the same structure as layer plates 170. As shown in FIGS. 2A-2E, energy generator 128 may include four columns 174 of six piezoelectric transducer layers (formed by layer plates 170-1 . . . 170-6) in a 2x2 arrangement. It should be appreciated that the arrangement of piezoelectric transducers 207 as shown is illustrative and columns with more or less layers in alternate arrangements are contemplated.

Force plate 150 may include force guides 208 that press down on piezoelectric transducers 207 positioned in an upper layer plate 170-1. Further force guides 208 may be provided between each layer 170 for pressing down on the piezoelectric transducers 207 below. Layers plates 170 may include openings 203 for force guides 208 to thereby create a contiguous column 174 of piezoelectric transducers 207 and force guides 208 such that force applied to force plate 150 may be transmitted to each of piezoelectric transducers 207 in each layer plate 170.

Piezoelectric transducers 207 may be electrically wired together with appropriate electrical components in a circuit arrangement in order to provide the generated energy to energy storage, or a load or an electricity grid. In some embodiments, the wires (not shown) connecting piezoelectric transducers 207 may pass through wire guides 205 formed in layer plates 170.

Piezoelectric transducers 207 may be positioned in transducer guides 202 formed in layer plates 170. Piezoelectric transducers 207 and transducer guides 202 are illustrated as being round but other shapes may be contemplated. Layer plates 170 may include openings 204, that contiguously line up to form a spring tunnel 204’. In some embodiments, spring guides 220 may be provided in force plate 150 and in bottom plate 172 to hold a spring 222 in position. Spring 222 may maintain tension in energy generator 128 such that force is required to push adjacent layer plates 170 together, where the layer plates 170 may be held together, for example, by nuts and bolts passing through bolt holes 206 in layer plates 170. In some embodiments, such as when the force placed on energy generators 128 is less (such as lighter pedestrian traffic vs heavier vehicular traffic), no spring 222 may be used.

In use, a force applied to force plate 150 such as in a direction “D” (FIG. 2A) may be transmitted to each of piezoelectric transducers 207 in each layer 170 via force guides 208, to thereby stress each of piezoelectric transducers 207 and to generate a related electric field.

FIGS. 3A-3D are illustrative drawings showing sub-surface energy systems 200 according to at least some implementations. Sub-surface energy systems 200 may be configured for use under surface 106 or may form surface 106 where surface users 102 are typically pedestrians or light weight vehicles such as scooters, bicycles and so forth. Subsurface energy system 200 may include tiles 310 that each include a tile-plate 312 with one or more energy generators 128 mounted on the underside of tile plate 312.

Tile-plate 312 may be formed as a ceramic tile or may be formed from other materials such as but not limited to rubber or plastic. In some embodiments, tile 310 may be laid out to form a surface 106, such as when tiles 310 include a tile-plate that is configured of a surface material type (for example ceramic). In some embodiments, tile 310 may alternatively be installed as a substrate under a surface 106.

Tiles 310 may be electrically wired together (not shown) with appropriate electrical/electronic components in a circuit arrangement in order to provide generated energy to energy storage, or to a load or to an electricity grid. In use, the weight of a surface user 102 travelling/moving over surface 106 may push down on surface 106 that may thereby apply a force on energy generator 128 mounted on the underside of tile plate 312 that would convert the applied force into an electric charge. It should be appreciated that system 200 may therefore provide for conversion of the kinetic energy of a surface user into electrical energy.

In some embodiments, tile 310 may have varying dimensions according to installation requirements of system 200. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 3C, tile 310 may include five energy generators 128 mounted in an arrangement as shown. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 3D, tile 310 may include a single energy generator 128 or multiple energy generators 128 mounted in 2x2, 2x3 or 3x3 arrangements. It should be appreciated that other arrangements of energy generators may be provided on tiles 310. In some embodiments, tile 310 may include one or more supplementary devices 130.

FIGS. 4A-4D are illustrative drawings showing sub-surface energy systems 400 including light sources according to at least some implementations. Sub-surface energy systems 400 may be configured for use under surface 406 or may form surface 406 where surface users 102 are typically pedestrians. Sub-surface energy system 400 may include tiles 410 that each include a tile-plate 412 with one or more energy generators 428 mounted on the underside of tile plate 412.

Tile-plate 412 may be formed as a ceramic tile or may be formed from other materials such as but not limited to rubber or plastic. In some embodiments, tile 410 may be laid out to form a surface 406, such as when tiles 410 include a tile-plate 412 that is configured of a surface material type (for example ceramic). In some embodiments, tile 410 may alternatively be installed as a substrate under a surface 406.

Each energy generator 428 may include one or more piezoelectric elements 430. In some embodiments, tile 410 may include a light source 432. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 4A-4D, four light sources 432 are provided per tile 410 but it should be appreciated that more or less light source 432 may be provided. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 4A-4D, light sources 432 are positioned substantially in the corners of each tile 410 but it should be appreciated that more or less light source 432 may be provided and positioned in any position in tile 410.

In some embodiments, light source 432 may be an LED. In some embodiments, a hole or window 434 in tile plate 432 may be positioned over light source 432 such that light source 432 is visible through hole/window 434. In some embodiments, the energy generated by pressure on piezoelectric element 430 may be used to power light source 432.

In some embodiments, piezoelectric elements 430 may be electrically connected to light source 432 by cabling in conduits 436. In use, surface users 102 may move across surface 406 causing light sources 432 to activate/light up as pressure is applied to each tile 410 and energy is generated from the pressure by piezoelectric elements 430. It should be appreciated that surface 406 may thus light or “animate” the path of a surface user 102 as tiles 410 light up in succession as a surface user 102 passes (walks, runs, stands) over tiles 410.

It is anticipated that such light-up tiles 410 may have educational value, teaching surface users 102 about energy generation and usage. In some embodiments, the energy generated by use of surface 406 may be displayed such as via information displays 442. In some embodiments, displays 442 may include an interface 444 linked to a controller (not shown) for controlling light sources 432. In some embodiments, light sources are additionally powered by a renewable energy source (not shown).

In some embodiments, surface 406, may be configured to activate light sources 432 is a specific pattern. In a non-limiting example, during a power outage, surface 406 may activate light sources 432 along a path to an exit. In some embodiments, surface 406 may be configured to light the light sources 432 of one or more tiles 412 that are adjacent to a tile 412 that a surface user 102 is using (walking, standing, etc.) as well as the tile 412 being used.

In some embodiments, adjacent tiles 410 may be electrically wired together via conduits 440 with appropriate electrical/electronic components in a circuit arrangement. In some embodiments, multiple tiles 410 may provide generated energy to energy storage, or to a load or to an electricity grid.

In use, the weight of a surface user 102 travelling/moving over surface 406 may push down on surface 406 that may thereby apply a force on energy generator 428 mounted on the underside of tile plate 412 that would convert the applied force into an electric charge. It should be appreciated that system 400 may therefore provide for conversion of the kinetic energy of a surface user into electrical energy.

In some embodiments, tile 410 may have varying dimensions according to installation requirements of system 400. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 4B and 4C, tile 410 may include four energy generators 428 mounted in an arrangement as shown. It should be appreciated that less or more energy generators 428 may be provided in tiles 410. In some embodiments, tile 410 may include one or more supplementary devices 130.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram showing a process 500 for installation and use of a system for energy generation under a surface according to some implementations. Process 500 may be performed using system 100 and the components thereof as described herein.

In step 502 of process 500 as shown in FIG. 5, an enclosure 122 may be installed under a surface 106 or alternatively enclosure 122 may be positioned, such as in a road or pavement substrate and surface 106 may be formed on top of the enclosure. Alternatively, interface layer 120 may be positioned on top of enclosure 122 and surface 106 may be formed on top of interface layer 120. Hydraulic system 124 may be installed with enclosure 122 prior to positioning of interface layer 120 and forming of surface 106 such as shown, for example, in FIG. IE.

In step 502, energy generator 128 may be installed into enclosure such as via service area 116. In some embodiments, energy generator 128 may be installed under a sub-enclosure 123 as described above and sub-enclosure 123 may be installed in enclosure before forming of surface 106. Thus, energy generator 128 may be installed prior to the forming of surface 106 or after forming of surface 106. In some embodiments, in optional step 506, one or more supplementary devices 130 may be installed in sub-enclosure 123 such as described above (either before or after forming of surface 106).

In step 508, surface users 102 make use of surface 106 and energy generator 128 is configured to generate energy corresponding to a force applied to surface 106 by surface users 102.

In optional step 510, installed energy generators 128 and/or supplementary devices 130 may be removed such as for maintenance or replacement without disrupting surface 106. Also in step 510, energy generators 128 and/or supplementary devices 128 may be installed without disrupting surface 106. As described above, linked energy generators 128 and/or linked supplementary devices 130 may be inserted or removed from enclosure 122 by sliding in or out along rails 152 and via service area 116 in a direction such as shown by arrows “C” without disrupting surface 106.

Process 500 may also be implemented using sub-surface energy systems 200 or 400 where, in combined step 502 and 504, tiles 310 or 410 are laid as surface 106/406 or where surface 106/406 is formed on top of tiles 310/410. In step 508, surface users 102 make use of surface 106/406 and energy generator 128/428 is configured to generate energy corresponding to a force applied to surface 106/406 by surface users 102.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The materials, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

Implementation of the method and system of the present disclosure may involve performing or completing certain selected tasks or steps manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of preferred embodiments of the method and system of the present disclosure, several selected steps may be implemented by hardware (HW) or by software (SW) on any operating system of any firmware, or by a combination thereof. For example, as hardware, selected steps of the disclosure could be implemented as a chip or a circuit. As software or algorithm, selected steps of the disclosure could be implemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In any case, selected steps of the method and system of the disclosure could be described as being performed by a data processor, such as a computing device for executing a plurality of instructions. As used herein, the terms “machine-readable medium” “computer-readable medium” refers to any computer program product, apparatus and/or device (e.g., magnetic discs, optical disks, memory, Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs)) used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term “machine-readable signal” refers to any signal used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor.

Various implementations of the systems and techniques described here can be realized in digital electronic circuitry, integrated circuitry, specially designed ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, and/or combinations thereof. These various implementations can include implementation in one or more computer programs that are executable and/or interpretable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which may be special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device.

Although the present disclosure is described with regard to a “computing device”, a "computer", or “mobile device”, it should be noted that optionally any device featuring a data processor and the ability to execute one or more instructions may be described as a computing device, including but not limited to any type of personal computer (PC), a server, a distributed server, a virtual server, a cloud computing platform, a cellular telephone, an IP telephone, a smartphone, a smart watch or a PDA (personal digital assistant). Any two or more of such devices in communication with each other may optionally form a "network" or a "computer network".

To provide for interaction with a user, the systems and techniques described here can be implemented on a computer having a display device (a LED (light-emitting diode), or OLED (organic LED), or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor/screen) for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse or a trackball) by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback); and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.

The systems and techniques described here can be implemented in a computing system that includes a back end component (e.g., as a data server), or that includes a middleware component (e.g., an application server), or that includes a front end component (e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface or a Web browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of the systems and techniques described here), or any combination of such back end, middleware, or front end components. The components of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication (e.g., a communication network). Examples of communication networks include a local area network (“LAN”), a wide area network (“WAN”), and the Internet.

The computing system can include clients and servers. A client and server are generally remote from each other and typically interact through a communication network. The relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship to each other.

It should be appreciated that the above-described methods and apparatus may be varied in many ways, including omitting, or adding steps, changing the order of steps and the type of devices used. It should be appreciated that different features may be combined in different ways. In particular, not all the features shown above in a particular embodiment or implementation are necessary in every embodiment or implementation of the invention. Further combinations of the above features and implementations are also considered to be within the scope of some embodiments or implementations of the invention.

While certain features of the described implementations have been illustrated as described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes, and equivalents will now occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the scope of the implementations. It should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, not limitation, and various changes in form and details may be made. Any portion of the apparatus and/or methods described herein may be combined in any combination, except mutually exclusive combinations. The implementations described herein can include various combinations and/or sub-combinations of the functions, components and/or features of the different implementations described.

Claims

1. A system for installation under a surface comprising: an enclosure configured to be installed on an underside of the surface; and an energy generation device configured to be removably installed into the enclosure after the enclosure is installed under the surface or after the surface is formed on top of the enclosure, wherein the energy generation device is further configured to generate energy corresponding to a force applied to the surface.

2. The system of claim 1, further including a hydraulic system supporting an interface layer between the enclosure and the surface.

3. The system of claim 2, further including a sub-enclosure, wherein the enclosure includes an opening in an upper surface of the enclosure for moveable installation of the sub-enclosure therein.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the sub-enclosure is in contact with the interface layer.

5. The system of claim 3, wherein the sub-enclosure is positioned on top of the energy generation device to transmit a force applied to the surface to the energy generation device.

6. The system of claim 3, further including a supplementary device.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the supplementary device is removably installed in the sub-enclosure.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein the supplementary device includes one of an loT device, a sensor, or a wireless charger.

9. The system of claim 6, further including a service area configured for removing or installing of the energy generation device and/or the supplementary device from/into the enclosure.

10. The system of claim 6, wherein the enclosure includes rails for slidable positioning of the energy generation device and/or the supplementary device thereon.

11. The system of any one of the above claims, wherein force applied to the surface is provided by surface users.

12. An energy generating device comprising: a plurality of layer plates stacked in a column, wherein each plate includes a plurality of transducer guides; a plurality of piezoelectric transducers positioned in the transducer guides of each plate; and a plurality of force guides positioned between the piezoelectric transducers of adjacent plates such that a force applied to the uppermost layer plate is transmitted to each of piezoelectric transducers in each layer plate. The energy generating device of claim 12, wherein the piezoelectric transducers generate electrical energy corresponding to the applied force. The energy generating device of claim 12, wherein the piezoelectric transducers are electrically wired together in order to provide the generated energy to energy storage, or a load, or an electricity grid. The energy generating device of claim 12, further including a spring positioned between an uppermost layer plate and lowermost layer plate. A sub-surface energy system comprising: the energy generating device of any one of claims 12-15; and a tile plate mounted on top of the device. The system of claim 16, wherein the tile plate includes a ceramic tile or rubber or plastic. The system of claim 16, further including a light source positioned beneath or within the tile plate and powered by the energy generating device. The system of claim 18, configured to activate the light source in response to force applied by a surface user on the tile plate. A method for energy generation under a surface comprising: installing an enclosure under the surface or forming the surface on top of the enclosure; and installing an energy generation device configured to be removably inserted into the enclosure without disrupting the surface thereon, wherein the energy generation device is further configured to generate energy corresponding to a force applied to the surface by surface users. The method of claim 20, further including removing the energy generating device from the enclosure without disrupting the surface. The method of claim 20, further including installing and/or removing a supplementary device into/from the enclosure without disrupting the surface. The method of claim 22, wherein the supplementary device includes one of an loT device, a sensor, or a wireless charger. The method of claim 21 or 22, wherein the installing or removing of the energy generation device or supplementary device is performed via a service area adjacent to the surface.