Clean Energy Capability Portfolio | Renewable Generation |
Piezo-Electric Energy Harvesters : Robust ,
Performance-Based
Design
The surrounding environment is rich with untapped sources of energy – mechanical vibrations . Piezo-electric energy harvesters ( PEHs ) can convert mechanical vibrations into electric power , enabling local energy generation for the rapid roll out of small electronic devices ( e . g ., IoT ). This capability stems from the development of software for accurate and efficient numerical simulations of PEHs , with the aim of developing fit-for-purpose environmental energy harvesting solutions . |
Competitive Advantage • Computational mechanics and algorithms for shape and topology optimisation that aim to maximise performance of PEHs
• Expertise with simulations based on the mathematical model of thin piezo-electric cantilever plates
• Ability to incorporate uncertainties in material parameters into the model , which enables the analysis of quantities of interests within a confidence interval
Impact • Virtual simulations can substitute experiments and predict performance of a PEH for any geometry and material parameter . The design can be used for manufacturing high-performing devices .
Successful Applications |
More Information Dr Elena Atroshchenko School of Civil and Environmental Engineering T : + 61 2 9385 5094 E : e . atroshchenko @ unsw . edu . au
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• Designing devices of non-conventional shapes for maximum frequency and / or energy / area ratio |
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• Capabilities and Facilities |
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• Extensive expertise in modelling CAD coupled with in-house bespoke software development |
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