Concise and high-fidelity predictive criteria for maximizing performance and robustness of bistable energy harvesters

We employ an analytical model of a harmonically excited bistable vibration energy harvester to determine criteria governing continuous high-energy orbit (HEO) dynamics that maximize harvesting performance. Derivation of the criteria stems from previously unexplored dynamic relationships predicted by the model indicating critical conditions for HEO; experimental evidence of the phenomenon is provided as validation. The criteria are vastly more concise than existing HEO prediction methodology and can more accurately delineate HEO boundaries. This research addresses an essential need to create effective tools for high performance and robust bistable harvester design. (C) 2013 American Institute of Physics. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.4790381]