Mathematical modeling of piezoelectric energy harvesting devices

Abstract

This work focuses on piezoelectric energy harvesting, which utilizes piezoelectric materials, or materials which by nature can convert an applied mechanical force into an electric field. This energy can then be used right away by the device or stored for later use. Initial work in this area was focused on the reverse process, where an electric charge can generate mechanical motion. In more recent years, however, the research into practical uses of piezoelectric materials to generate energy has grown considerably. There are numerous applications of piezoelectric energy harvesting, such as wearable technologies that generate power through bodily motion [3], electric thermometers that one can charge before use by shaking [4], and pacemakers that are powered through the beating of the heart [5]. In all cases, some sort of outside vibration is used to generate power through the device. (from Introduction)