Piezoelectric Cantilevers for Energy Harvesting with Irregular Design of the Cross Sections

Results of the numerical and experimental investigations of the piezoelectric rectangular cantilevers with irregular design of the cross section area are presented in this paper. The aim of the investigation was to analyse how modification of the cross section area by periodical gaps acts on power density of the piezoelectric energy harvesting systems based on a rectangular cantilever. It was found out, that modifications of the cross section area ensure higher strain values and allows to improve strain distribution in piezo ceramic layer and by this way to improve power density of the energy harvesting systems. Numerical investigations of the piezoelectric cantilevers with irregular design of the cross section area were performed in order to analyse strain distribution and predict electrical characteristics of the improved energy harvesting systems. Experimental investigations of the prototypes were performed and results of the numerical modelling were validated. Results of the numerical and experimental investigation are discussed as well.