Application of nonlinear stiffness mechanism on energy harvesting from vortex-induced vibrations

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of vortex-induced vibration (VIV) as a renewable energy source, achieved when fluid flow interacts with a bluff body, inducing self-sustained oscillations through vortex shedding in the wake. While VIV research has traditionally focused on understanding its mechanisms and mitigating detrimental effects, interest in VIV energy harvesting has surged as a means to convert marine hydrokinetic (MHK) energy into usable electrical power. The nonlinear effects of two linear oblique springs on VIV energy harvesting are explored using the wake oscillator model, encompassing bistable and Duffing hardening stiffness. The study examines the response and energy harvesting performance while considering the impact of undeformed spring length, structural damping, and initial conditions on VIV energy conversion. Findings show that nonlinear stiffness application in the VIV system can broaden the synchronization bandwidth or reduce the VIV initiation flow speed. Bistable stiffness may broaden the synchronization velocity range, while Duffing hardening stiffness efficiently reduces the VIV initiation speed with small energy harvesting loss. Combining both stiffness types with appropriate control strategies presents a promising approach for achieving a broad synchronization VIV bandwidth and low initiation flow speed. Key parameters, such as the nondimensional parameter defining spring system obliquity and the ratio between undeformed spring length and cylinder diameter, significantly influence VIV response and energy harvesting. Moreover, optimal structural damping is vital to maximize energy harvesting efficiency, and understanding and controlling initial conditions are crucial for optimizing VIV synchronization bandwidth and energy harvesting efficiency for both bistable and Duffing hardening stiffness. This study provides valuable insights into VIV system dynamics and energy conversion potential with nonlinear springs, offering promising avenues for enhancing energy harvesting efficiency and inspiring further applications of nonlinear effects in VIV energy converters.