Variable-Length Pendulum-Based Mechatronic Systems for Energy Harvesting: A Review of Dynamic Models

Abstract

The ability to power low-power devices and sensors has drawn a great deal of interest to energy harvesting from ambient vibrations. The application of variable-length pendulum systems in conjunction with piezoelectric or electromagnetic energy-harvesting devices is examined in this thorough analysis. Because of their changeable length, such pendulums may effectively convert mechanical vibrations into electrical energy. This study covers these energy-harvesting systems’ basic theories, design concerns, modeling methods, and performance optimization strategies. This article reviews several studies that look at dynamic models, the effects of damping coefficients, device designs, and excitation parameters on energy output. The advantages and disadvantages of piezoelectric and electromagnetic coupling techniques are demonstrated by comparative research. This review also looks at technical advances and future research prospects in variable-length, pendulum-based energy harvesting. An expanded model for an energy harvester based on a variable-length pendulum derived from the modified, swinging Atwood machine is more specifically presented. This model’s numerical simulations, estimated current and voltage outputs, and produced power from the electromagnetic and piezoelectric devices integrated at various points in a 4-DOF variable-length pendulum model all indicate encouraging results. This necessitates extra study, changes, and optimizations to improve the usefulness of the proposed model. Finally, important dynamic models on developing variable-length, pendulum-based energy harvesters for usage in a range of applications to create sustainable energy are summarized.