Energy harvesting device
AssigneeDrexel University
InventorsWei-heng Shih, Wan Y. Shih, Hakki Yegingil
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Abstract
A piezoelectric energy harvesting device (PEHD) comprising a driving element, conducting element, piezoelectric layer and non-piezoelectric layer capable of converting ambient mechanical energy into electrical energy. The piezoelectric layer may be constructed from PMN-PT or PZT having a thickness of about 1-150 ?m. The PEHD may be used to generate about 1 W. The harvested energy may be stored and used to power microelectronic devices and rechargeable battery technologies.
Claims20
A piezoelectric energy harvesting system comprising a cantilever including a conducting element, at least a first piezoelectric layer and a non-piezoelectric layer, wherein said piezoelectric layer has a thickness of about 1 μm-about 150 μm, and an electrical connection to a device which stores or uses energy.
A method harvesting energy harvesting comprising the steps of:
- a. exposing at least one piezoelectric cantilever including a driving element, at least a first piezoelectric layer having a thickness of about 1 μm-about 150 μm, a conductive element, and a non-piezoelectric layer, to a mechanical or vibrational force, and
- b. harvesting electrical energy generated by conversion of said mechanical or vibrational energy into electrical energy.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.