Nonlinear Dynamics in Vibration-based Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting

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The research program aims to study the nonlinear dynamics in vibration-based piezoelectric energy harvesters to achieve wide bandwidth, high power output, small size, and low cost. Vibration-based energy harvesters, capable of scavenging ambient vibrations and converting into electricity, are promising to replace batteries as a main power supply for small autonomous electronic devices. There are two main advantages for such energy harvesters: no replacement and recharging required; no environmental pollution caused by waster batteries. Among different types of vibration-based energy harvesters, piezoelectric energy harvesters (PEHs) are the most promising due to its larger power density. In spite of the promise of PEHs, existing PEHs suffer from major drawbacks such as small power output and narrow frequency bandwidth. Various efforts have been made to address the problems. One of the most promising ways to improve the performances of PEHs is to introduce nonlinear mechanisms into the original linear PEHs and effectively utilize nonlinear dynamic properties. The proposed research program will apply two novel and unique nonlinear mechanisms, bistable-structure-based forced vibrations and structure-based self-excited vibrations, to PEHs to enhance power output and widen frequency bandwidth. The long-term objective is to design and develop effective PEHs for wide applications. The short-term objectives include design and optimization of bistable-structure-based PEHs, design and development of structure-based self-excited PEHs, and development of techniques to integrate PEHs into small autonomous electronic devices. The research will contribute to developing nonlinear modeling, analysis, and optimization tools for piezoelectric energy harvesters and will significantly enhance the PEH technology. Moreover, the research program will train several HQPs in multi-disciplinary areas of importance to industry.