The system uses automobile traffic, as a source of electric power. The devices convert the movement of car & truck traffic, into water pressure, to run roadside generators. A company spokesman, Gare Henderson, describes the systems as localized hydro-electric generators.

The systems work by placing fluid filled containers on or under the roadway.

When cars and trucks move over these "traffic taps" fluid is forced out through a system of hoses, the pressurized fluid then runs a nearby electric generator.

The pressurized system instantly refills the roadbed containers, to absorb the energy from the next passing vehicle.   Henderson says that drivers do notice some effect as they pass over the devices. However, he claims the sensation is similar to running through a shallow puddle of rain water.

The initial use of the devices will be to power roadside equipment and lighting, independent of local power grids. Yet, the inventor feels that the devices will in the future become a significant source of power for cites located near major roadways.

Other uses for the traffic taps include traffic management, such as weight and speed monitoring.

Demonstration projects in several major US cities are now in the planning phase, so drivers can expect the devices to start appearing on the roadways by the end of next year. The patent also includes pedestrian and animal driven systems.

Website: http://www.gravitationalsystems.com