Abstract: The present invention provides an improved device for capturing and converting energy expended by pedestrian or vehicular traffic. In one embodiment, the device comprises a tread plate (34) having an elongated generally channel formed member having a top web with downwardly extending side walls (36) with inwardly directed flanges (40) which mates with a base member (54) having a channel formed member defining a base web with upstanding side walls (52) of a common height which terminate at outwardly directed flanges, (56) the tread plate in mating telescopic engagement with the base enabling relative vertical movement of the tread plate. The base web includes a plurality of supports (70) stamped therefrom, each of the supports having an aperture therein, all of the apertures in axially alignment. A rocker arm shaft (80) is rotatably mounted to each of the supports and carries a plurality of rocker arms (201) mounted by one way clutches (100).

Abstract: A fan constructed according to the present invention has a base supporting a vertical tube having a movable vertical rod inside. The lower end of the rod is hingedly connected to a means for attaching the device to a moving part of a rocking chair, such as a rocker, seat or leg. An endless belt is connected to the top of the vertical rod for oscillating movement therewith, the belt being held in a vertical loop by a pair of wheels or gears mounted within the tube. A top wheel movable with the belt engages a set of gears in such a manner as to transform oscillatory motion of the belt into rotation of a horizontal shaft in a single direction. A set of fan blades is mounted on the horizontal shaft.

Abstract: Energy expended by pedestrian or vehicular traffic is captured by a device which includes a plurality of tread plates which when depressed by traffic thereupon drive rocker arms mounted by one way clutches on a shaft. The rocker arms are spring biased upwardly to keep the tread plates normally raised so that the tread plates return to their initial position after being depressed. Preferably, the shaft is connected to a generator, and the generator to a battery so as to store electrically the energy captured mechanically. By using the aforedescribed configuration a relatively thin device is achieved which can be conveniently installed under a carpet and used in the doorways of buildings or other heavy traffic areas.