Planform Geometry and Excitation Effects of PVDF-Based Vibration Energy Harvesters

In the present paper, we report a systematic investigation of planform geometry and excitation level effects on dynamics power generation characteristics polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF)-based cantilevered vibration energy harvesters. Piezoelectric harvesters provide promising harvesting solution for widespread use wireless sensors in remote locations. Highly flexible PVDF polymers offer resonant frequencies at suitable range mechanical within low-frequency applications, though information efficient sizing these devices is currently limited. We test response set eight to typical sources levels 0.2–0.6 g. This comprises four widths two lengths, incrementing each time by factor two. The selected dimensions sufficient identify optimal output versus width both lengths tested. value depends amplitude such way that narrower are more suited small excitations, whereas wider perform better upon experiencing large excitations. Non-linear longer demonstrated significantly reduce performance, which motivates selection inside linear range. Finally, explore correlation performance with various geometric quantities order inform future design studies highlight using second moment area measure harvester efficiency terms density. points towards non-rectangular performance.