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A piezoelectric fibre composite based energy harvesting device for potential wearable applications

L M Swallow1, J K Luo1, E Siores1, I Patel1 and D Dodds2

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Rapid technological advances in nanotechnology, microelectronic sensors and systems are becoming increasingly miniaturized to the point where embedded wearable applications are beginning to emerge. A restriction to the widespread application of these microsystems is the power supply of relatively sizable dimensions, weight, and limited lifespan. Emerging micropower sources exploit self-powered generators utilizing the intrinsic energy conversion characteristics of smart materials. 'Energy harvesting' describes the process by which energy is extracted from the environment, converted and stored. Piezoelectric materials have been used to convert mechanical into electrical energy through their inherent piezoelectric effect. This paper focuses on the development of a micropower generator using microcomposite based piezoelectric materials for energy reclamation in glove structures. Devices consist of piezoelectric fibres, 90–250 µm in diameter, aligned in a unidirectional manner and incorporated into a composite structure. The fibres are laid within a single laminate structure with copper interdigitated electrodes assembled on both sides, forming a thin film device. Performances of devices with different fibre diameters and material thicknesses are investigated. Experiments are outlined that detail the performance characteristics of such piezoelectric fibre laminates. Results presented show voltage outputs up to 6 V which is considered enough for potential applications in powering wearable microsystems.


PACS

85.50.-n Dielectric, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric devices

84.70.+p High-current and high-voltage technology: power systems; power transmission lines and cables

77.65.-j Piezoelectricity and electromechanical effects

Subjects

Condensed matter: electrical, magnetic and optical

Electronics and devices

Dates

Issue 2 (April 2008)

Received 23 August 2007, in final form 20 December 2007

Published 13 February 2008



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