Human Power Generation
Human
power generation as a means of physical activity for adults and children (Energy-generating
play structures and environments). We are in the early stages of understanding how
human power can be used to increase levels of physical activity in youth while also
teaching them about energy. The overall aim is to develop and test energy-generating
equipment that can be used to encourage physical activity. We also aim to use the
harvested energy to teach math, science and engineering principles related to energy
efficiency and conservations. One example of our projects is the annual Give-A-Watt
event. During this event we ask participants to pedal energy harvesting bicycles
and then donate the generated energy to local charities. Participants generated
~1.8 kWh during the event in 2011!