"Traffic Taps" Make Electric Power from Cars
A New York City engineering firm has received patent pending status
for a device called a "traffic tap," which uses automobile
traffic as a source of electric power.
The devices, developed by Gravitational System Inc., convert the
weight of active car and truck traffic into fluid pressure, which
runs roadside generators. A company spokesman, Gary Henderson, describes
the systems as localized hydroelectric generators.
The systems work by placing fluid filled containers on or under
the roadway. When cars and trucks move over these "traffic
taps," fluid is forced out through a system of hoses. The pressurized
fluid then runs a nearby electric generator. Each passing axle can
generate over 56 watts of power.
The closed loop pressurized system instantly refills the roadbed
containers, to absorb the energy from the next passing vehicle.
Henderson says that drivers do notice some effect as they pass over
the devices. However, he claims the sensation is similar to running
through a shallow puddle of rainwater.
The initial use of the devices will be to power roadside equipment
and lighting, independent of local power grids. Yet, the inventor
feels that the devices will in the future become a significant source
of power for cities located near major roadways.
Other uses for the traffic taps include traffic management, such
as weight and speed monitoring.
Demonstration projects in several major US cities are now in the
planning phase, so drivers can expect the devices to start appearing
on the roadways by the end of next year. The patent also includes
pedestrian and animal driven systems.
For more information, call Gary Henderson, Gravitational System
Inc., (646) 698-2774, or visit http://www.gravitationalsystems.com.
Source: Global Network of Environment
and Technology e-Newsletter, http://www.gnet.org
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