Analysis of Vertical Vibrations of a Child Seat Using the ISOFIX System in the Context of Obtaining Electricity to Power a SMART Child Seat

Damian Frej ()
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Damian Frej: Department of Automotive Engineering and Transport, Kielce University of Technology, 7 Tysiąclecia Państwa Polskiego Ave., 25-314 Kielce, Poland

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 16, 1-35

Abstract: This article presents the results of an experimental study focused on evaluating the potential to harvest electrical energy from vertical vibrations affecting a child car seat installed on an ISOFIX base with a support leg during real driving conditions. The objective was to measure vibration levels in the seat structure and assess the feasibility of converting this mechanical energy into electrical power. The study involved two child seat models, each tested under loads of 9 kg and 15 kg, while driving over smooth asphalt, damaged asphalt, and speed bumps. Acceleration data were collected at three key structural locations: the seat surface, the ISOFIX base, and the support leg. These measurements served as the basis for estimating the mechanical energy available and the resulting electrical output. Findings show that in poor road conditions, the system can generate enough energy to power a 10 µW sensor for more than 42 days. The results confirm the feasibility of using vibration energy harvesting to supply smart safety features such as presence detection, temperature monitoring, or posture sensing in child seats, without the need for batteries or a connection to the vehicle’s electrical system.

Keywords: electric vehicles; internal combustion engine vehicles; child safety seat; ISOFIX; vehicle vibrations; energy recovery; urban driving; RMS acceleration; shock absorber generator; self-powered sensors; child safety technology; sustainable transport; smart car seat (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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