Parameter Optimization of a Magnetic Coupled Piezoelectric Energy Harvester with the Homogenized Material-Numerical Approach and Experimental Study

Sensors (Basel). 2022 May 27;22(11):4073. doi: 10.3390/s22114073.

Abstract

This paper presents the process optimization of some key parameters, such as beam spacing, flux density and optimal impedance load matching of magnetic coupled piezoelectric harvesters. In order to do this, the distributed parameters model of this structure, containing macro-fiber components (MFC) with homogenous material in the piezoelectric fiber layer, was determined. Next, the computational model of this structure was designed on the basis of the first-order shear theory (FOST). The performed analysis of the calculated voltage outputs on the basis of the theoretical approach and finite element model by various beam spacing allowed us to indicate that optimized parameters play an important role in enhancing the efficiency of the system. Experiments carried out in a laboratory stand for this structure, allowed for the verification of the numerical results. In the effect, it can be noted that magnetic coupled harvesters will be relevant for a wide range of application sectors, as well as useful for the evolving composite industry.

Keywords: energy harvesting; homogenous material; macro-fiber composites (MFC); magnetic coupled systems; parameter optimization; piezoelectric.

Grants and funding

This work is supported by the University Work No. WZ/WM-IIM/2/2022 of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Bialystok University of Technology.