Simple analytical models and analysis of bistable vibration energy harvesters

Abstract In order to scavenge the energy of ambient vibrations, bistable vibration harvesters constitute a promising solution due their large frequency bandwidth. Because complex dynamics, simple models that easily explain and predict behavior such are missing from literature. To tackle this issue, paper derives analytical closed-form characteristics (e.g. power-frequency response, displacement cut-off interwell motion) by mean truncated harmonic balance methods. Measurements on piezoelectric harvester illustrate proposed allow prediction mechanical harvested power, with relative error below 10%. From these models, influences various parameters as inertial mass, acceleration amplitude, electromechanical coupling, resistive load, derived, analyzed discussed. The analysis give an intuitive understanding dynamics harvesters, can be exploited for design optimization.