Dual-mode energy harvester for transmission lines: integrating thermoelectric and triboelectric technology for self-powered vibration monitoring

To ensure the reliable operation of transmission lines and address the long-term power supply challenges for distributed sensors, this study proposes a dual-mode energy harvester for transmission lines (DEH-TL) based on thermoelectric-triboelectric technology. The DEH-TL integrates multiple thermal energy harvesting modules (TEHMs) and uniformly distributed vibrational energy harvesting modules (VEHMs). The TEHM converts the temperature difference between the transmission lines and the environment into electrical energy through micro thermoelectric generator arrays, utilizing elastic connectors to adapt to surface variations across different conductor specifications and ensure efficient thermal contact. The VEHM incorporates a spring structure triboelectric nanogenerator coupled with a mechanical vibration amplifier, enabling omnidirectional broadband energy harvesting from transmission line vibrations. Under a temperature difference of 25 °C and a vibrational frequency of 15 Hz, the TEHM and VEHM achieve power outputs of 6.787 mW and 3.324 mW, respectively. The integrated energy management system efficiently regulates harvested energy, powering a wireless temperature-humidity sensor and enabling real-time data transmission via Bluetooth. Additionally, the DEH-TL achieves vibration frequency monitoring with 1.46 % maximum error. These results demonstrate the dual functionality of DEH-TL in energy harvesting and vibrational state sensing, addressing critical challenges in smart grid infrastructure.