Green fitness tech: A self-powered device for monitoring treadmill metrics

This research presents the development of a self-powered device designed to monitor treadmill metrics, including speed, distance covered, and calories burned, without requiring external power sources. The purpose of this study is to provide a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to conventional treadmill tracking systems that are often expensive and energy-dependent. The device utilizes an Arduino Nano microcontroller, a DC motor functioning as a generator, an TFT display, and an encoder to sense motor speed and position. Experiments demonstrated the system’s ability to accurately capture and display treadmill data in real-time, powered solely by the kinetic energy generated from treadmill operation. Significant findings highlight the system's capacity to reduce power consumption and operational costs while maintaining performance comparable to more expensive integrated tracking systems. The conclusions drawn from this study suggest that the proposed device not only promotes energy efficiency but also offers a practical, low-cost solution for enhancing the fitness experience, making it an attractive alternative for both personal and commercial treadmill applications.