Papers Published
Abstract:
Vibration energy harvesting research has largely focused on linear electromechanical devices excited at resonance Considering that most realistic vibration environments are more accurately described as either stochastic, multi-frequency, time varying, or some combination thereof, narrowband linear systems are fated to be highly inefficient under these conditions Nonlinear systems, on the other hand. are capable of responding over a broad frequency range, suggesting an intrinsic suitability for efficient performance in realistic vibration environments Since a number of nonlinear dynamical responses emerge from dissipative systems undergoing a homoclinic saddle-point bifurcation, we validate this concept with a bistable inertial oscillator comprised of permanent magnets and a piezoelectric cantilever beam The system is analytically modeled, numerically simulated, and experimentally realized to demonstrate enhanced capabilities and new challenges In addition, a bifurcation parameter within the design is examined as either a fixed or an adaptable tuning mechanism for enhanced sensitivity to ambient excitation (C) 2010 Elsevier B V All rights reserved