20-09-2017, 03:20 PM
Low-Frequency Vibration Electrostatic Energy Generator As Human Motion describes the analysis, simulation and testing of a micro-engineering motion-driven energy generator, suitable for application in sensors inside or used in the human body. Microgenerators capable of feeding sensors have been previously reported, but these have required high frequency mechanical vibrations to excite a resonant structure. However, the movements moved by the body are slow and irregular, with large displacements, and therefore do not effectively match the energy in such generators. The device presented here uses an alternate, non-resonant mode of operation. The analysis of this generator shows its potential for the considered application and shows the possibility of optimizing the design for particular conditions. We describe an experimental prototype based on a variable parallel plate capacitor that operates in constant load mode, confirming the models of analysis and simulation. This prototype, when preloaded at 30 V, develops an output voltage of 250 V, corresponding to 0.3 muJ per cycle. Also described are the experimental test procedure and instrumentation.
Energy collection micro-generators provide alternative energy sources for many technical and personal applications. Since the power supplied by such miniaturized devices is limited, it is necessary to optimize and adapt them to the application. The associated electronics not only have to operate at very low voltages and use low power, but also need to be adaptable to fluctuating harvesting conditions. A joint development and optimization of the transducer and electronics is essential for greater efficiency.
Energy collection micro-generators provide alternative energy sources for many technical and personal applications. Since the power supplied by such miniaturized devices is limited, it is necessary to optimize and adapt them to the application. The associated electronics not only have to operate at very low voltages and use low power, but also need to be adaptable to fluctuating harvesting conditions. A joint development and optimization of the transducer and electronics is essential for greater efficiency.