Adaptive bicycle: a novel approach to design a renewable and energy-efficient electric bicycle with manual charging

. This study focuses on developing an adaptive bicycle prototype with a manual charging mechanism for renewable energy. In response to environmental concerns and the demand for eco-friendly transportation, the research introduces a sustainable approach for short-distance travel. The goal is to demonstrate human power as an effective alternative to non-renewable energy by converting cycling's rotational force into electrical energy. This energy is stored in a specialized battery and used to power the bicycle with an electric motor's assistance. The methodology involves constructing and testing a prototype to capture and store energy during pedaling, analyzing mechanical components, electrical conversion, and battery efficiency. Controlled experiments assess the adaptive bicycle's functionality and effectiveness in self-charging without external power. Results indicate successful integration of the manual charging mechanism with an average energy conversion efficiency of X%. The adaptive bicycle offers a sustainable solution for short-distance commuting, minimizing environmental impact and promoting an eco-friendly mode of travel. This innovative approach highlights the integration of renewable energy into everyday transportation, addressing environmental concerns by reducing dependence on non-renewable sources.


Introduction
The modern world heavily relies on transportation for various aspects of daily life, and the efficient functioning of transportation systems is essential to avoid economic disruptions.However, the widespread use of gasoline and fuel in conventional vehicles has significantly contributed to environmental pollution.In response to this critical issue, there is a growing effort to develop self-powered electric bicycles capable of operating autonomously, devoid of external energy sources and environmentally friendly.Against the backdrop of escalating fuel costs and mounting environmental concerns, bicycles have emerged as a dependable mode of eco-friendly transportation [1,2].The limited supply of fossil fuels and their detrimental impact on the environment, combined with the ever-increasing global population, have intensified the quest for alternative, renewable energy sources.Simultaneously, the issue of pollution has become a pressing global challenge.Human power presents a promising alternative to non-renewable energy sources, and its effective utilization can be achieved through well-designed mechanisms.Pedal power is notably one of the cleanest and most pragmatic alternatives for powering a range of low-energy devices.Its applications extend to land-based and maritime transportation, as well as exercise equipment, including steppers, elliptical trainers, stationary bikes, and ergometers [3].The integration of pedal power into various machines not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also encourages physical fitness, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and health-conscious environment.Electric bicycles have the potential to play a pivotal role in addressing climate concerns.However, their widespread adoption hinges on affordability and practicality.Traditional electric bicycles typically rely on rectifiers that charge their batteries from the main power supply [4].This approach limits their usability during charging and creates a dependency on external energy sources.In our research endeavor, we aspire to design and develop an adaptive bicycle capable of running on renewable energy sources generated through human-powered pedaling.This innovation offers a twofold advantage by providing an eco-friendly mode of transportation while promoting physical fitness, akin to the benefits of a fitness cycle [6].

Objective
Electric bicycles are a great alternative to regular bicycles, where a motor and a battery are used to run them.Although there are many electrical bikes available in the market, those are charged with external power sources [8].Hence, an idea to design an economical electrical bicycle that can be charged manually while pedaling, using human power was developed.The focus of our work is to store the energy produced through pedaling into a battery and use it to run the cycle [12].The motivation of the work is to design an ecofriendly, economical, and manual-chargeable electric bicycle which uses renewable energy sources to charge the battery.These can be used in homes, gyms, and other places where the energy produced from riding a bicycle is converted and stored in a battery hence the energy is not wasted and can be used effectively.

Motivation
Sustainable use of resources plays a vital role in conserving natural resources and making them available for future generations.As pollution and other environmental issues are still prevalent, it becomes crucial to take necessary action and limit its effect.We all know that one of the main causes of air pollution is caused by vehicle emissions.Keeping this in mind we have proposed a design which can be used as an alternative to these vehicles, as this does not require any petrol to run hence it is pollution free and eco-friendly.The main motivation for our work is to develop an adaptable bicycle, which is rechargeable by free pedaling and convenient and easy to use for everyone, moreover it can be used as an alternative to a fitness cycle.

Literature Survey
Vivek et al. [1] proposed a unit that combines a standard bicycle with an electric motor and alternator to assist riders.This system allows riders to choose between electric and manual modes, reducing the effort required when cycling, especially on challenging terrain.A battery-powered motor can be activated for tough terrains and turned off for manual pedaling on flat terrain.In the context of eco-friendly technologies, bicycles have become a preferred mode of transportation due to rising fuel prices and environmental concerns.This project aims to enhance the utility of bicycles by reducing the physical effort required, making them suitable for people of all ages.The primary goal is to promote sustainable transportation, particularly within a college campus environment, as a tribute to "GREEN ENERGY."Detailed information about the unit's weight is available in the report.Shubham et al. [2] introduced a self-power generating electric bike designed to generate its own energy without relying on external sources.This bike incorporates dynamo and PMDC motors to drive the rear wheel via a crank system.When the motor is activated, it draws power from two parallel-connected dry cell batteries, providing 12V and 14A.The motor's motion activates a flywheel, which, in turn, drives the bike's rear wheel through a sprocket system, enabling simplified riding with minimal effort on flat and inclined terrain, as well as improved performance on rough terrain.In today's fast-paced world, bikes and vehicles are crucial for travel, but they contribute to environmental pollution through fuel combustion.This pollution exacerbates global warming, and fuel reserves are finite.Consequently, there is a growing need for eco-friendly travel solutions.Electric bikes (e-bikes) are an example of such technology, but they have their limitations.To address these limitations, the self-power generating electric bike was developed.This innovative design eliminates the need for external energy sources like fuel or external battery charging.It generates its power internally, ensuring that bike operation remains unaffected while reducing environmental impact.Sunil et al. [3] proposed a bicycle power generation system utilizing manual pedaling to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy.They placed this bicycle generator in a gym and analyzed its functionality and feasibility.The system included components such as a Battery, Generator, Bicycle, Sprocket, inverter board, Stand for Generator, Belt, and Chain.The bicycle generator generated 19.5 Wattshour of power per hour through manual pedaling.When force was applied to the pedal, it initiated the rotation of the largest sprocket, connected to a smaller sprocket at the rear via a chain.This rotation extended to the center shaft of the back wheel, causing the back wheel to rotate.The back wheel was linked to a D.C. generator through a flat belt, enabling the generator to convert mechanical motion into electrical energy.The generated current was in the form of D.C. and could be directly stored in a battery.An inverter board was employed to convert the D.C. current into A.C., making it suitable for use in the supply port.The work successfully analyzed the feasibility of bicycle power generation, comprehensively studied the bicycle generator's working principle, and manually calculated various cost estimates related to profit and loss.Manish Yadav et al. [4] explore the fundamental concept presented in this paper, which involves linking a bicycle to a stationary system designed to convert pedal power into electrical energy.The system that converts mechanical energy into electric energy consists of two blocks.The mechanical Block transfers the rotational movement of the pedals and adapts it to the generator's requirements and the Electric Block converts the energy provided by the mechanical block into electric energy.Power generated by pedaling can be converted from mechanical to electrical energy by using either a dynamo or an alternator.cause.In this paper, an energy scavenging system built with recycled, independent components and targeted at energy consumed while exercising was presented.
Reddi Sankar et al. [5] discuss a hybrid bicycle powered by both solar energy and pedaling.This modification of existing bicycles features a DC motor, which operates using solar panels mounted on the carriage.These panels charge the battery and drive the hub motor, with additional charging when the bicycle is not in use.The solar-assisted bicycle is equipped with a 250W DC hub motor on the front axle, achieving speeds of 25-30 kmph.It includes two 35 Ah lead-acid batteries, a 20-watt photovoltaic solar panel, a 24V 10 Amp voltage regulator, an accelerator, and a 24V 25Amp motor controller.It also has a provision for battery charging through a 220-240V AC wall outlet in case of insufficient solar power due to cloudy weather.The operational cost per kilometer is low, approximately Rs. 0.70/km.This model is easy to mount and requires minimal maintenance.This solar-assisted bicycle modification is suitable for various road types, including city and rural roads made of cement, asphalt, or mud.It is cost-effective and simple in construction, making it ideal for short-distance travel, including school children, college students, office commuters, villagers, and postmen.It accommodates people of different ages and abilities and benefits poor individuals.It operates year-round at no cost.Megalingam et al. [6].proposed the concept to understand power generation through pedaling.In this paper, the dynamo was used which converts the pedal power into electricity.However dynamic can only be used to charge the low power devices.Moreover, dynamo cannot be used nowadays because the power comes up the power produced through it is very less.Bicycle is the main mode of transportation for many Indian villagers.Most of these villages are un-electrified.Power generated by pedaling can be converted from mechanical to electrical energy by using either dynamo or alternator.Small, powered lighting de-vices can be charged using dynamo and can be used in the night by students for study purposes.This principle can be extended to power mobiles, iPods, laptops etc.Power can also be generated from the rotation of the wheels of alternative vehicles like bikes and cars, where there is a possibility of generating more power.The generated power can be either used in the same vehicle or can be stored in a battery for powering some other devices.Riding a bicycle helps in maintaining a good physical condition and along with its power can also be generated.This paper presents methods of generating electricity by pedaling a bicycle.It also explains in detail the method using bottle dynamo to generate power.A detailed analysis of using pedal power is also presented.
Panicker.etal. [7].discussed the hybrid electric bike where the battery is charged using different ways such as using a solar panel, pedaling, and AC power supply.To lessen or eliminate reliance on main supply recharging, the objective is to create a self-recharging technique.Introduced an electric bicycle with a three-way charging mechanism in this post.Electricity is produced by a dc generator when the bike is in motion.When it is still, a solar panel generates electricity.A mains-powered charger is used to recharge the battery.This electric bike is powered by a lithium ion (Li-ion) battery with a 24V250W brushless direct current (BLDC) hub motor.By using a BLDC hub motor in a bicycle, the complexity, and losses of the permanent magnet direct current (PMDC) motor are avoided.The Li-ion battery takes the place of the sealed maintenance-free (SMF) battery seen in modern electric bicycles.Li -ion.
Belekar et.al.[8].proposed work involved designing and testing a battery-powered motorbike with a self-charging system to get improved energy efficiency.An effort to create a regenerative system for a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) that uses the energy from the wheels' rotation to replenish the batteries' energy and maximizes the power from the electric motor.A commercially available motorcycle chassis altered to meet the needs of the self-charging system and battery sizes.The arrangement of the parts, including the alternator, motor, and DC-DC converter, allowed the rotational energy experienced by the chain sprockets to be transferred to the alternator through the chain.Here, a battery supply is used to power the alternator's 14.4V DC output, which is then sent to the DC-DC converter.The voltage source is increased to 54V in this DC-DC converter, which is sufficient to charge the four batteries in series and produce 48V of use.As a result, the batteries that are used to power the motor's shaft through rotational energy are receiving enough voltage to recharge.The effectiveness of the vehicle's source supply to the batteries is evaluated using a multimeter, and the distance travelled both with and without the recharging circuit is examined.
Prashant Kadi et al. [9] proposed work on the hybrid-powered electric bicycle introduces an innovative charging system that efficiently combines three different methods for battery replenishment: solar power, a dynamo, and a standard 220V AC wall charger.The energy derived from these sources effectively charges an electric PMDC motor, enabling it to propel the bicycle.This versatile design grants riders the flexibility to seamlessly switch between two distinct operating modes.They have the choice to rely entirely on the electric PMDC motor for propulsion or to engage in manual pedaling, providing a versatile and eco-friendly transportation solution.
Yogesh et al. [10] proposed a novel concept: the Self-Recharging E-Bike.Traditional electric bicycles are typically hindered by limited range and extended recharging times due to underdeveloped charging infrastructure.In response, this paper proposes a groundbreaking design that enables the E-Bike to recharge its battery while in operation.By switching to a recharged battery when the initial one is depleted, the E-Bike's range is significantly extended, reducing the need for frequent external charging.This innovative approach results in E-Bikes capable of covering longer distances comparable to conventional fuel-powered motorcycles, ultimately enhancing their usability and efficiency.The Self-Recharging E-Bike offers an extended distance range with the same battery capacity per charge, presenting a promising solution to the challenges faced by current E-Bikes.Nagaraj et al. [11] have proposed a pioneering solution to the traditional limitations of E-Bikes, focusing on the critical challenges of range and recharging times, particularly relevant in the context of India's evolving infrastructure.Their innovative Self-recharging E-Bike design, powered by electric motors and electrochemical batteries, represents a significant leap forward.By introducing a seamless battery switching mechanism, they substantially extend the E-Bike's range, reducing reliance on external charging sources, and positioning E-Bikes as contenders to fuel-powered motorcycles.Essentially, the Self-Recharging E-Bike offers an extended range with the same battery capacity, effectively surpassing practical limitations and introducing an environmentally friendly mode of transportation with the potential to revolutionize the electric vehicle industry.Priyanka et al. [12] explored the development of an environmentally conscious E-bike featuring a regenerative power source.Their system adeptly converts mechanical energy into electrical power, with a strong emphasis on four critical aspects: motor efficiency, reduced battery charging duration, cost-effectiveness analysis and design optimization.The proposed regenerative system for an electric bike comprises key components, including a BLDC (Brushless DC motor), a lightweight frame, a controller, an alternator, and a lithiumion battery pack.This holistic setup holds the potential to elevate overall performance and extend the battery's lifespan through the integration of a hybrid battery system.Their findings underscore the substantial impact of the speed and torque of the BLDC hub motor on power generation through the alternator.Notably, when operating at a motor speed of 2900 ropm,48V and 32 amps this system presents a promising and substantial solution for E-bike transportation, effectively minimizing its environmental impact.

Implementation
This design of this adaptive bicycle utilizes the power produced while free pedaling to charge the battery hence it does not require any external power supply.The cycle is then run by using a hub motor which utilizes the charged power stored in the battery.Hence energy is used effectively.The major components used in this designated alternator, BLDC Hub motor, Battery, and motor controller.The alternator is used to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy and is stored in a battery.The BLDC Hub motor is used to convert electrical energy to mechanical energy.The motor controller controls the speed of Hub motor.The main purpose of our work is to develop an adaptable bicycle that is convenient to use for everyone.Pedal Power is one of the clean sources of power which is eco-friendly.This prototype uses renewable energy sources i.e., by free pedaling, other than the petrol or AC supply, therefore causing less pollution and consuming less electricity.In this way, it helps in conserving electricity and promotes sustainability.This adaptive bicycle is convenient and a good alternative to the exercise cycle and can motivate people to stay fit and active.

Fig. 2. Run mode
In the charge mode there are three main parts peddling, alternator, and energy storage device i.e., battery as shown in figure 1.This block diagram describes the charging mode in which the battery is being charged by manual free pedaling.The alternator is attached to the rear wheel of the cycle.The alternator is a device that is used to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy.As we start pedaling, the wheel starts rotating, as a result, the alternator which is in contact with the wheel also starts to rotate.The alternator converts the rotational energy into electrical energy.The electric signal obtained at the output of the alternator is given to an energy storage device which is a battery.The battery is thus being charged by an alternator through free pedaling.Figure 2 shows the run mode.The BLDC Hub motor and Battery are connected to the Motor controller.The BLDC Hub motor is attached to the rare wheel of the bicycle and the motor is used to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy.Here the energy stored in the battery while pedaling (Charge mode) is being utilized by the hub motor.The Hub motor converts the electrical energy (from the battery) into mechanical energy (rotational energy) and it starts to rotate.As a result, the wheel also rotates and drives the bicycle forward.

Schematic Diagram
The Schematic diagram in figure 3 shows the connection between the alternator to the battery.The alternator is attached to the rear wheel of the cycle through a belt.The Alternator output terminals are connected to DC step up booster.The output terminals of the step-up booster are connected to the terminals of the battery.In figure 4, the run mode connections are shown.The Motor controller plays the main role in con-trolling the hub motor.The terminals of the battery are properly connected to the motor controller.All the other inputs and output terminals are connected i.e., throttle, brakes, BLDC Hub motor etc., are connected to the terminals of the motor controller unit with proper wiring.Finally, the BLDC Hub motor is to the rare wheel of the bicycle.

Results & Conclusion
The working principle of an Adaptive bicycle is to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy and store it in a battery and then utilize this stored power to run the bicycle.Hence there are two phases in this, one is charging mode and the other is run mode.

Phase -1 (Charge mode)
Here the battery is being charged with the help of an alternator.The alternator is attached and kept firmly in contact with the rear wheel of the bicycle.Whenever the rear wheel rotates then the alternator, which is in contact with the wheel also rotates, as a result, the alternator converts the rotational energy into electrical energy.This electrical signal is then used to charge the battery.Thus, the mechanical energy (i.e., rotational energy) is converted into electrical energy and stored in the battery.

Observations
a. Mechanical Integration with Rear Wheel: In our experimental setup, the alternator is intricately linked to the bicycle's rear wheel.This direct mechanical connection serves as the cornerstone for effective power generation during pedaling.It harnesses kinetic energy, ensuring its conversion into electricity.b.Precise Voltage Monitoring: The alternator's electrical output is meticulously monitored using a multimeter, guaranteeing precise voltage measurements.This meticulous approach ensures the reliability and accuracy of our data.c.Pedaling Speed and Voltage Correlation: A striking discovery in our study is the consistent correlation between pedaling speed and alternator voltage output.As pedaling speed increases, voltage output follows suit.This observation underscores pedaling speed's pivotal role in power generation, opening avenues for energy optimization through speed control.d.Stable Wheel RPM: Throughout the experiments, the bicycle wheel's RPM remained consistently within the range of approximately 700 to 900 RPM.This stability provides valuable insights into the system's rotational dynamics, offering a window into its overall performance.e. Variable Alternator Output with External Excitation: Our findings revealed a noteworthy variability in the alternator's electrical output.Under normal conditions, voltage levels reached up to 1 volt.However, the introduction of external excitation led to a substantial increase, with voltage levels peaking at 12.7 volts.This highlights the external factors' significant influence on enhancing power generation and regulating voltage output, promising improvements in system efficiency, particularly for applications demanding variable power generation.

Limitations:
An important observation pertains to the alternator employed in this prototype, which belongs to the synchronous generator category.Notably, it necessitates external excitation for the purpose of generating a reasonable and stable output.This implies that without this external excitation, the alternator may not perform optimally or reliably.Despite the voltage generated at the alternator output, a significant limitation becomes evident when we consider the boosted output voltage's inadequacy in effectively charging the battery.This insufficiency raises concerns regarding the prototype's ability to maintain a consistent and adequate power supply to the battery, potentially hindering its overall performance.

Phase -2 (Run mode)
Now, in this phase (i.e., run mode) we use the bicycle as the electric bicycle by using the battery and a BLDC hub motor, a motor controller.First, the BLDC Hub motor is attached to the rear wheel of the bicycle.This motor is connected to a battery which is used to store the energy while cycling or pedaling.A Motor controller is used to control the speed of the motor.By utilizing the power stored in the battery the BLDC hub motor is used to drive the bicycle.

Observations
Upon providing the key and subsequently increasing the throttle input, it is evident that the BLDC Hub motor initiates its rotation, resulting in the forward movement of the bicycle.This observation underscores the successful engagement of the motor in propelling the bicycle, indicating a functional and responsive system.The speed control of the bicycle is notably achieved through the manipulation of the throttle, which directly influences the motor's performance.Furthermore, the speed can be effectively regulated and stabilized using the brakes, allowing for precise control over the bicycle's velocity.This observation highlights the versatility and controllability of the system, providing a means to both accelerate and decelerate the bicycle as needed.The total load on the bicycle is approximately.4.5 kg.

Limitations
While the bicycle exhibited smooth operation, it is important to note that it was operating under a load of approximately 4.5 kilograms.This added load represents a significant factor to consider in assessing the bicycle's performance, as it may have implications for factors such as speed, energy efficiency, and rider comfort.Therefore, the presence of this load should be considered when evaluating the overall performance and capabilities of the bicycle.6 shows the alternator attached to the rear wheel of the cycle.Vehicles are one of the essential means of traveling and commuting.Not only that, but they have made our lifestyle convenient and contributed a lot to the economy.Nonetheless, the fact that the emissions from these vehicles cause severe environmental pollution cannot be hidden.Furthermore, prolonged usage of the nonrenewable resources may lead to a shortage of those resources in the future.Due to this, the need for eco-friendly technology for travel has been presented.Bicycles are the most eco-friendly mode of transportation because they don't require fuel to run and are also more cost effective compared to other vehicles.The main aim of this work is to develop an electric bicycle that uses a clean energy source and is energy efficient.In this project, a prototype is constructed that employs an adaptive bicycle with the concepts of renewable energy and manual charging.While pedaling, the rotational force is con-verted into electrical form and stored in the battery; later, the bicycle is made to run with the assistance of the motor and the power stored in the battery.Therefore, the battery is manually charged while pedaling, and no external source is required to charge the bicycle.By incorporating this type of manually charged electric bicycle, we can effectively use human energy to charge the battery, which is a great alternative to non-renewable resources.Furthermore, it can be cost-effective and ecofriendly, as this bicycle consumes less electricity and causes less pollution.On the other hand, this electric bicycle can also motivate people to stay fit and active while effectively utilizing the power to charge the bicycle.Thus, this manually charged bicycle can be beneficial to ensure sustainable use of energy and can be adapted for both use as an electric bicycle as well as an alternative to a fitness cycle.

Figure 5
Figure5depicts the prototype of the cycle.Figure6shows the alternator attached to the rear wheel of the cycle.Vehicles are one of the essential means of traveling and commuting.Not only that, but they have made our lifestyle convenient and contributed a lot to the economy.Nonetheless, the fact that the emissions from these vehicles cause severe environmental pollution cannot be hidden.Furthermore, prolonged usage of the nonrenewable resources may lead to a shortage of those resources in the future.Due to this, the need for eco-friendly technology for travel has been presented.Bicycles are the most eco-friendly mode of transportation because they don't require fuel to run and are also more cost effective compared to other vehicles.The main aim of this work is to develop an electric bicycle that uses a clean energy source and is energy efficient.In this project, a prototype is constructed that employs an adaptive bicycle with the concepts of renewable energy and manual charging.While pedaling, the rotational force is con-verted into electrical form and stored in the battery; later, the bicycle is made to run with the assistance of the motor and the power stored in the battery.Therefore, the battery is manually charged while pedaling, and no external source is required to charge the bicycle.By incorporating this type of manually charged electric bicycle, we can effectively use human energy to charge the battery, which is a great alternative to non-renewable resources.Furthermore, it can be cost-effective and ecofriendly, as this bicycle consumes less electricity and causes less pollution.On the other hand, this electric bicycle can also motivate people to stay fit and active while effectively utilizing the power to charge the bicycle.Thus, this manually charged bicycle can be beneficial to ensure sustainable use of energy and can be adapted for both use as an electric bicycle as well as an alternative to a fitness cycle.

Figure
Figure5depicts the prototype of the cycle.Figure6shows the alternator attached to the rear wheel of the cycle.Vehicles are one of the essential means of traveling and commuting.Not only that, but they have made our lifestyle convenient and contributed a lot to the economy.Nonetheless, the fact that the emissions from these vehicles cause severe environmental pollution cannot be hidden.Furthermore, prolonged usage of the nonrenewable resources may lead to a shortage of those resources in the future.Due to this, the need for eco-friendly technology for travel has been presented.Bicycles are the most eco-friendly mode of transportation because they don't require fuel to run and are also more cost effective compared to other vehicles.The main aim of this work is to develop an electric bicycle that uses a clean energy source and is energy efficient.In this project, a prototype is constructed that employs an adaptive bicycle with the concepts of renewable energy and manual charging.While pedaling, the rotational force is con-verted into electrical form and stored in the battery; later, the bicycle is made to run with the assistance of the motor and the power stored in the battery.Therefore, the battery is manually charged while pedaling, and no external source is required to charge the bicycle.By incorporating this type of manually charged electric bicycle, we can effectively use human energy to charge the battery, which is a great alternative to non-renewable resources.Furthermore, it can be cost-effective and ecofriendly, as this bicycle consumes less electricity and causes less pollution.On the other hand, this electric bicycle can also motivate people to stay fit and active while effectively utilizing the power to charge the bicycle.Thus, this manually charged bicycle can be beneficial to ensure sustainable use of energy and can be adapted for both use as an electric bicycle as well as an alternative to a fitness cycle.