Topological optimization of variable area plate capacitors for coupled electromechanical energy harvesters

This article examines how topological optimization can be applied to identify nonintuitive capacitor plate patterning that maximizes average power dissipated through an electrical circuit during energy harvesting. Coupled electromechanical equations of motion are derived that include both the instantaneous and change in overlapping conductive area as functions of plate rotation. A genetic algorithm is used to optimize these terms and then map them to physical plate configurations. The results obtained apply specifically to the case presented; however, the methods are general and can be used to solve a broad range of electrostatic energy harvesting problems.