Optimizing Design of Wearable Energy Generator for Body Motion based Energy Harvesting

Abstract

In this paper, the authors propose efficient Piezo-material with optimized structure body motion based energy harvesting based on the principles of piezoelectric effect. The authors plan to implement a secondary source of energy which can be powered by human motions and does not require replacement of batteries which could otherwise pave way for a cost margin that would amount to a larger cost over a longer period of time. The methods used are relevant to the principles of piezoelectricity which are powered by harnessing natural human vibrations. Nanogenerators are used for this purpose of energy conversion. The studies related to length optimizations, material and resonant frequency are conducted by using COMSOL Multiphysics software. Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) displayed the best output with regard to the materials studied. By patterning the initial structure, piezoelectric material was optimized to achieve a minimum Eigen frequency value due to the generation of mutual capacitance. The minimization of Eigen frequency value signified its ability to generate adequate output voltages even when exposed to minimal frequency vibrations which it can realize.