Performance characterization of different nonlinear-transduction mechanisms for piezoelectric energy harvesting

Abstract

This paper deals with the analysis of different configurations for piezoelectric energy harvesters. The theory is based on the nonlinear approach applied in PZT-based oscillators. The oscillators that will be exploited and characterized are composed of single and multiple magnetically-coupled bi-stable cantilevers excited through ambient vibrations as external energy sources. Three systems have been validated and compared in terms of calibration diagram, power budget, efficiency, spectral content. The proposed transducers are suitable to be used as converters or sustainers in order to supply smart nodes, wireless sensor networks or to perform autonomous measurement systems.