Journal of Theoretical and Applied Vibration and Acoustics

Journal of Theoretical and Applied Vibration and Acoustics

Energy harvesting from walking vibration using a piezoelectric harvester contacting nonlinear supports

Document Type : Research Article

Authors
Leila Torfenezhad 1
Reza Tikani 2
Saeed Ziaei-Rad 1
1 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
2 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, 84156-83111, Iran
10.22064/tava.2024.529139.1180
Abstract
In recent times, there has been a growing interest in harnessing environmental energy resources, particularly mechanical vibrations, to power low-energy electrical devices like wireless sensors. Among these energy sources, the movement of the human body stands out. This paper delves into the realm of piezoelectric energy harvesting using the mechanical energy generated by foot acceleration during movement. The energy harvesting mechanism revolves around a nonlinear piezoelectric harvester, featuring a cantilever beam equipped with two piezoelectric patches on opposite sides and supported by curved surfaces. To model the foot's motion, we apply measured foot acceleration as a base excitation to the harvester. Subsequently, we develop a finite element model within the Ansys environment, encompassing the entire system comprising the cantilever beam, piezoelectric patches, supports, and electrical resistance. The culmination of our work involves designing, fabricating, and testing a model. The experimental results are then compared with those obtained from the finite element model. Remarkably, a strong correlation is evident between the measured data and the outcomes generated by the finite element analysis.

Highlights

  • Energy harvesting from walking vibration using a piezoelectric harvester was studied.
  • The functionality of the nonlinear energy harvester was compared with a linear one.
  • The superiority of the harvester with curved supports was demonstrated.
  • The fabricated energy harvester was tested for seven walking speeds

Keywords
Nonlinear piezoelectric energy harvesting
Base excitation
Foot movement acceleration
Nonlinear supports
Subjects
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Journal of Theoretical and Applied Vibration and Acoustics
Volume 8, Issue 1
January 2022
Pages 26-36