Approaches Toward Efficient Piezoelectric based Energy Harvesting

Due to relatively low power generation capability and energy conversion efficiency, however, these harvesting technologies have been applied only to limited applications. In order to solve these issues, here, we address three type of piezoelectric energy harvesting. First, we design and demonstrate a piezoelectric/electromagnetic hybrid energy harvester that can generate significant amount of electricity at vibration environments. Oval-like configuration using two curved piezoelectric energy harvesters based on MFC (Macro-fiber composite) piezoelectric material induces large displacement of a permanent magnet installed at the end of the top surface which allows efficient power generation both piezoelectric and electromagnetic energy harvesters. Second, Second, we introduce a PVDF-based piezoelectric energy harvester applicable to roads. The PVDF-based piezoelectric energy harvesters provide a competitive power output at small vertical displacements with proper module design, making the tough piezoelectric materials suitable for efficient and durable roadway energy harvesting. Finally, we demonstrate an ultra-wide bandwidth piezoelectric energy harvesters through the automatic resonance tuning. Piezoelectric energy harvesters typically exhibit sharp peak in output power around resonance frequency. We expect that the automatic resonance tunable piezoelectric energy harvester can provide the much-needed breakthrough in the deployment of mechanical energy harvesters for naturally occurring vibrations.