Piezoelectric paving systems represent an emerging technology that, although not yet widely used, is nevertheless an innovative and sustainable solution for the leisure, tourism and entertainment projects developed by Amusement Logic. After all, one of the company’s tasks is to remain alert to technological innovations that are useful to these projects and, therefore, to their developers. So, let’s see what it consists of.
What are piezoelectric pavements?
In a nutshell, piezoelectric pavements transform the movement of people into electricity. This transformation is achieved through the use of materials such as PZT (lead titanate zirconate) or PVDF (fluorinated polyvinylidene), which respond to pressure with a small electrical charge. This charge or energy produced by the pressure of people’s steps can be used immediately or stored in battery systems to be used later.
Application in leisure, tourism and entertainment
In the leisure, tourism and entertainment sector, in other words, in water parks, theme parks, hotels and resorts, campsites, shopping centres and other similar facilities, we can implement piezoelectric flooring technology in three areas:
–High traffic areas: installing piezoelectric flooring in entrances, passage areas and queues allows the energy generated by the constant flow of visitors to be captured. This supply would help in the energy consumption of the attraction, for example, in ambient and decorative lighting, in signage and in other chapters of general consumption.
–Interactive attractions and spaces: it is possible to design attractions so that visitors provide, with their footsteps, the energy necessary for the production of special effects or the operation of audiovisual systems. In this way, piezoelectric technology is integrated into the attraction itself and is part of the visitor experience.
–Exhibitions and educational spaces: piezoelectric technology can also be used for educational purposes, showing in real time how each step contributes to the generation of energy. With it, we make visitors aware of the need for responsible use of energy, while reinforcing the park’s message of commitment to the environment.
Benefits in leisure, tourism and entertainment facilities
The application of piezoelectric technologies in leisure, tourism and entertainment facilities, whether in water parks, theme parks, hotels and resorts, campsites, shopping centres or other facilities in the sector, has obvious advantages. These are both in their operation and in their carbon footprint.
On the one hand, these are systems that reduce dependence on conventional energy sources, thereby giving added value to the attraction, which will be more sustainable and ecological. When applied to the interactive experience of visitors, it also becomes a factor of fun, learning and awareness.
Finally, its implementation in the leisure, tourism or entertainment facility differentiates it in the market as a benchmark in environmental responsibility, sustainability and innovation. And that is an excellent marketing tool and an added attraction for the public.
By Francisco Lozano, MEP engineer in the Architecture Department of Amusement Logic
