2023 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

The objective of this project-based learning is to utilize the energy generated from everyday practices to conserve it from being wasted. We focused on conserving energy in the game of basketball, a high energy and popular sport. The goal is to design and build a device that harnesses the vibrational energy generated when a basketball is hit against the backboard of the basket, while not interfering with the game or being of high maintenance to the users. In the past, there was a device developed that used springs attached to the poles holding the basket up to harness the kinetic energy generated when a player dunks the ball, but that device was not implemented successfully, and the patent is currently expired. Our device uses different technology to accomplish the same goal in a more efficient, sustainable, and convenient way for the users.

We developed a portable attachment for a basketball backboard that harnesses vibrational energy from the impact of a basketball, transforms it into electricity, and powers LEDs in a scoreboard. To transfer the kinetic energy from the vibrations of the backboard to electrical energy, a series of piezoelectric generators were placed on a panel attached to the backboard. The size of the attachment was sized down (approximately half size) to be tested on a smaller backboard. To maximize efficiency on a regular-sized backboard, the number of piezoelectric generators would be duplicated or quadrupled, covering more area. Furthermore, we made the design a portable attachment so it was user-friendly and more practical. Finally, we concluded that the most efficient design for the panel was one that resembled the shape of the backboard, so we decided to make it square-shaped. The developed solution to the problem stated worked to a good extent. By hitting the backboard with a basketball, each strip of piezo generators was able to collect a voltage of 2V and 0.9mA after a 5-6 hits initially.

In addition, this project-based experiential learning activity help students to master various skills, such as research, collaboration, design, construction, and technical writing, and more. The skills learned by this project were invaluable and important experiences within physics and engineering. This portable attachment for a basketball backboard not only provides scientists and engineers with more valuable information about energy production, but also is capable of educating the everyday person about the basics of engineering physics as well as the importance of renewable resources.