A Systematic VDI 2221 Methodology for Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting in Ergonomic Lumbar-Support Wearables Product
Abstract
The need for sustainable, portable renewable energy sources is increasingly crucial, especially for human activities in remote areas with minimal access to electricity. The research aims to develop Piezo-Powered Ergo-Lumbar Support Device prototype, an ergonomic lumbar support cushion-backpack integrated with a portable renewable energy source through a piezoelectric energy harvesting system. A combination of VDI 2221 and Human-Centered Design (HCD) methods was applied to simultaneously optimize the technical and ergonomic needs of users. A technical-economic evaluation was used to determine the best design solution concept. Vibration simulation test in Solidwork software confirmed that the product can accommodate vibrations up to an average of 1218 Hz, which is required to activate 32 piezoelectric elements arranged in parallel to optimally convert kinetic energy into electrical energy. This research results in a final prototype with dimensions of 38.5 x 26.5 x 10 cm and a weight of 475 grams with a power storage capacity of 1200 mAh. Evaluation conducted on 43 respondents proved that the product increases comfort and improves body posture (88.4% of respondents agreed), and the feature of generating renewable energy independently is considered innovative and useful. This product offers a promising integrated ergonomic-energy solution for sustainable energy innovation.
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