Piezoelectric Wind-Energy-Harvesting Device with Reed and Resonant Cavity

A wind-energy-harvesting device utilizing the principle of a harmonica was created. A reed in a resonant cavity vibrated efficiently with the blowing wind, and a piezoelectric element stuck on the reed generated electricity. The dimensions of the wind inlet were approximately 30 x 20 mm(2). The device was investigated with a wind speed ranging from 2.8 to 10 m/s. An output power of 0.5-4.5 mW was obtained with a matching load of 0.46 M Omega. The energy conversion efficiency of the device could reach up to 2.4%. (C) 2010 The Japan Society of Applied Physics