Jason Ong A0067191A Group 6 Idea: Piezoelectric energy harvesting keyboard, harnessing energy used while typing.

Process: Modify existing or design new key switch mechanism to incorporate piezoelectric energy harvesting components. Power generation estimation The average touch typist types at 60 words per minute. Assuming that an average word is made up of 5 keystrokes, we are able achieve a typing speed of 5Hz. For this calculation, we will be referencing Piezo Systems Incs piezoelectric energy harvester kit. The specification table is referenced below.

The average mechanical keyboard requires an actuation force of 0.7N. Deflection = Force / Stiffness = 0.7/190 =3.7mm > Rated tip deflection of 2.6mm Therefore it is feasible to use the force exerted during typing to bend the piezoelectric material. The capacitator based harvesting circuit is able to achieve an output of 7.1mW at 57Hz. Hence a typing speed of 5Hz may be able to achieve an output of approximately 0.7mW. Green impact: The energy harvesting keyboard will harvest otherwise wasted energy with minimal impact on user experience. Ideally, it will generate enough power to provide for at least 40% of a keyboards power consumption. With a future potential of being able to charge low power devices. Cost effectiveness: For the prototype, the reference kit used in calculations above cost $600. The minimal power generated using this material does not justify the cost. However, this might be improved by souring for cheaper and more effective piezoelectric materials in the market. Technical challenges: Research in piezoelectric generation is ongoing, current technology might not be adequate in meeting our goals of significant personal power generation. Calculations above show that the reference material will only generate 0.35% of a wireless keyboards power needs of 200mW. Further research has to be done to evaluate materials which are currently commercially available.

Marketability: Such a product may not be well received if its capability is limited to battery-less operation, as batteries are relatively low cost and potential savings may not justify the premium over normal keyboards. Ease of adoption and implementation (users perspective): The energy harvesting keyboard will offer the same user experience as per normal keyboards, and offer plug and play installation. Conclusion While it may not be feasible now, the benefits of this design lies in its value as an innovative proof of concept. With developments in piezoelectric material technology, this design may be able to realize its full potential in time to come. Advances in research will drive down the cost of piezoelectric generators and improve power generation capacity allowing piezoelectric power generators to be suitable for the consumer mass market in terms of cost and performance.