The latest research in energy generation and harvesting technology clearly raises hope for a better tomorrow. Researchers have developed an Energy Harvesting (EH) skin which is an improvisation over the cantilever that bends and harvests ambient energy.
The EH skin device is not bulky and does not require fixtures that automatically reduces the possibility of unnecessary energy losses. The cooler in the picture is an excellent demonstration of the EH skin technology. Set up on campus, at the University of Maryland, the top plate of this unit functions as the design space.
The EH skin device is flat and functions on the ability of some materials to generate electricity when under mechanical stress. The researchers in this case have utilized the properties of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) which has been found to have the highest energy conversion levels as compared to other piezoelectric materials.
The EH skin with PZT patches has been directly fixed to the vibrating surface with a conductive epoxy. This is the first experiment of its kind where PZT patches have been used for controlling vibration and energy generation. The special ‘segment type-design scheme’ ensures optimum conversion and maximum efficacy. The new energy harvesting skin in the long run will definitely eliminate battery replacement cost and effort.
Among the important applications of wireless sensors is monitoring and controlling mechanical and lighting systems in a building. If the EH skin technology takes off successfully, it will lead to a new chapter in energy generation and energy conservation. The areas likely to benefit from the successful application of the EH skin technology are structural health monitoring systems, defense services, nuclear plants, automotive industry and more.
Via: Physorg
