Broadband vibration energy harvesting based on cantilevered piezoelectric bi-stable composites

Bi-stable composites are considered for vibration based energy harvesting, thanks to the broadband nature of their dynamic response. In this letter, a cantilevered piezoelectric bi-stable composite concept is introduced for broadband energy harvesting. The proposed configuration allows for exploiting the large strains developed close to the clamped root, significantly enhancing the harvesting effectiveness in comparison to previous settings. A simple model is used for designing the dynamic response aiming to maximise broadband oscillations. Experimental results reveal wide bands of high power conversion. Additionally, a shunting circuit suitable for broadband conversion is employed, further increasing the effectiveness of the proposed concept. (C) 2013 AIP Publishing LLC. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.4803918]