Origami Motion-Driven High Output Current Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Self-Powered Life-Jacket System

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) have proved their potential to convert mechanical energy to electricity. However, huge mass, volume and low current output remains a challenge. Therefore, in this work, we designed an Origami motion-driven High-output current Triboelectric Nanogenerator (OH-TENG) with low weight, high power density, and portability. Because of multiple charge accumulation at layer and electrostatic discharge mechanism using zig-zag folding and rotating origami structure design. The OH-TENG can generate high voltage and current output at 80V, 60V respectively, 15mA, 10mA high output current respectively, in contact, separation both case. The OH-TENG is optimized via quantitative voltage-current database and mechanical behavior analysis. This high output power can operate commercial LEDs and sensors enough. And, OH-TENG has elastic feature by using a polymer and fabric material. Using this feature, OH-TENG can expand the practical application, including thin thickness product. So, OH-TENG can applied to life jacket system’s buoyancy material like 3.5cm ~ 6cm thickness. Our system designed for floating life jacket in ocean generating output power by using wave energy. A further study focuses on applied OH-TENG to life jackets buoyancy for floated in ocean. These findings suggest improving origami shape TENG’s power and engineering design.