Energy stacking efficiency of a novel low-frequency spring-like piezoelectric energy harvester

Abstract

Abstract This study introduces a novel approach to energy harvesting through a spring-like piezoelectric harvester, termed SPEH, specifically designed for extremely low-frequency excitations. Through the integration of PVDF films and incorporating multiple thin plastic layers, the experimental setup underwent testing across various impact amplitudes and loads. Notably, the results revealed that the height of the impact significantly influenced peak voltage generation, with a remarkable 74% surge observed between a 3-inch and a 1-inch impact under a 90g load. Conversely, the impact load exhibited a comparatively lesser influence on peak voltage. The analysis of generated RMS voltage demonstrated a consistent trend, where higher impact height and load weight correlated with increased RMS voltage, emphasizing the significance of system mass. This innovative approach seeks to harness ambient vibration energy for sustainable power generation, marking a stride in advancing low-frequency piezoelectric energy harvesting systems.