Self-Rebound Cambered Triboelectric Nanogenerator Array for Self-Powered Sensing in Kinematic Analytics

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Sports Technology

Background:

• Equestrian sports demand advanced sensing for kinematic analysis and injury prevention.
• Existing technologies often lack portability, real-time capabilities, or self-powering features.
• Developing robust and efficient energy harvesting is crucial for wearable biomechanical sensors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a flexible, self-powered triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) for equestrian kinematic analysis.
• To create a self-powered sensing system for real-time monitoring of riding characteristics.
• To enhance safety and performance in equestrian sports through advanced monitoring.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a flexible self-rebound cambered triboelectric nanogenerator using ordinary materials.
• Characterization of the TENG's mechanical properties, including durability, resiliency, and stability.
• Evaluation of the TENG's energy harvesting performance, including power density.
• Development and testing of a self-powered riding characteristic sensing system with a fast response time.

Main Results:

• The TENG demonstrated over 3000 cycles of durability with superior resiliency and stability.
• The device achieved a power density of 1.25 mW/m² at a size of 4.52 cm².
• A self-powered sensing system with a response time of 16 ms was successfully developed.
• The system provides real-time statistics and fall prediction capabilities.

Conclusions:

• The flexible TENG is a viable micro-biomechanical energy harvester for self-powered sensing applications.
• This technology can significantly advance equestrian sports by providing real-time monitoring and fall prediction.
• The developed self-powered system has potential applications in intelligent sports monitoring and assistance.