NASA's 'smart path' knows how to illuminate and activate visitor phones

In the past, we have heard of a land cover that illuminates, absorbs solar energy, generates electricity from pedestrian footsteps, and even transmits Wi-Fi signals. Now NASA is working with some scientists to develop a new high-tech road project, welcoming visitors to the Kennedy Space Center.

This installation costs US $ 2 million made up of about 1,000 panels spread over 40,000 square feet (3,700 square meters). These panels form the mosaic image of Earth, Mars, Moon and International Space Station.

Each plate contains an electronic board, six small solar panels, batteries, LED lights, a Bluetooth transmitter and a Wi-Fi transmitter, micro controller and a piezoelectric component. All of these are encased in a high-performance, thin concrete compartment and covered with a strong tempered glass panel. Piezoelectric systems generate energy from mechanical pressure, and in this case the footsteps of visitors.

"When you step on the tempered glass, it compresses the piezoelectric element, creating an electric charge that illuminates 125 LEDs . "

Along with various color illumination, the panels can also beam a wireless signal to a passer's phone according to piezoelectric technology.

" Piezoelectric elements also deliver Wi-Fi or Bluetooth signals to visitors' smartphones, can play sounds, provide information about their geographic location and to find potential paths. "Stern said.

This system is completely self-operated, but not only by piezo elements: Solar arrays also continuously absorb energy from the sun and all are stored in a rechargeable lithium battery for use. use at night.

Finally, the purpose of the project is to introduce "smart city" applications of technology. Devices like these can be used to power local devices such as street lights, guide tourists to attractions or collect real-time information about traffic conditions and Road surface conditions.

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