A piezoelectric fibre composite based energy harvesting device for potential wearable applications

• Published in: Smart materials and structures Vol. 17; no. 2; pp. 025017 - 025017 (7)
• Main Authors: Swallow, L M, Luo, J K, Siores, E, Patel, I, Dodds, D
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bristol IOP Publishing 01.04.2008; Institute of Physics
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Exact sciences and technology; Fundamental areas of phenomenology (including applications); General equipment and techniques; Instruments, apparatus, components and techniques common to several branches of physics and astronomy; Measurement and testing methods; Mechanical engineering. Machine design; Physics; Precision engineering, watch making; Servo and control equipment; robots; Solid mechanics; Structural and continuum mechanics; Transducers; Power supplies; Measurement sensor; Fiber reinforced material; Layered materials; Energy recovery; Experimental study; Smart materials; Weight; Electrical connection; Electrodes; Composite materials; Piezoelectric materials; Energy conversion; Electric generators; Piezoelectricity; Piezoelectric devices; Microstructure; Nanotechnology
• ISSN: 0964-1726; 1361-665X
• DOI: 10.1088/0964-1726/17/2/025017

Rapid technological advances in nanotechnology, microelectronic sensors and systems are becoming increasingly miniaturized to the point where embedded wearable applications are beginning to emerge. A restriction to the widespread application of these microsystems is the power supply of relatively sizable dimensions, weight, and limited lifespan. Emerging micropower sources exploit self-powered generators utilizing the intrinsic energy conversion characteristics of smart materials. 'Energy harvesting' describes the process by which energy is extracted from the environment, converted and stored. Piezoelectric materials have been used to convert mechanical into electrical energy through their inherent piezoelectric effect. This paper focuses on the development of a micropower generator using microcomposite based piezoelectric materials for energy reclamation in glove structures. Devices consist of piezoelectric fibres, 90-250 mum in diameter, aligned in a unidirectional manner and incorporated into a composite structure. The fibres are laid within a single laminate structure with copper interdigitated electrodes assembled on both sides, forming a thin film device. Performances of devices with different fibre diameters and material thicknesses are investigated. Experiments are outlined that detail the performance characteristics of such piezoelectric fibre laminates. Results presented show voltage outputs up to 6 V which is considered enough for potential applications in powering wearable microsystems.