Simulation of Self Tuning Shape Memory Alloy Based PZT Energy Harvester

Abstract

Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) is tuned to match the frequency of excitation with the resonance frequency. Simulation is carried out numerically using COMSOL 5.3 software. This model consists of cantilevered beam without tip mass, PZT layer, Aluminium beam and SMA layer. Lead Zirconium titanate (PZT – 5A) is used as PZT layer for the conversion of energy. Harvesters power frequency response for different frequency ranges are carried out. The maximum output is obtained in excitation frequency with SMA and the results were compared without SMA material. The numerical simulation of the Frequency Response Functions (FRF) was compared with the analytical frequency response functions of the harvester. The maximum difference between the numerical and analytical results is 9.77 % in FRF’s and 1.85 % in resonance frequency. Materials used are Lead Zirconium titanate (PZT – 5A), SMA material and Aluminium beam which reaches the scopes of journal.