In recent years, topology optimization has proved itself to be state of the art in the design of mechanical structures. At the same time, energy harvesting has gained a lot of attention in research and industry. In this work, we present a novel topology optimization of a multi-resonant piezoelectric energy-harvester device. The goal is to develop a broadband design that can generate constant power output over a range of frequencies, thus enabling reliable operation under changing environmental conditions. To achieve this goal, topology optimization is implemented with a combined-objective function, which tackles both the frequency requirement and the power-output characteristic. The optimization suggests a promising design, with satisfactory frequency characteristics.
Keywords: broadband energy harvesting; piezoelectric energy harvesting; topology optimization.