Simulation analysis and optimization design of energy supply for smart clothing based on a triboelectric nanogenerator principle

Smart clothing is the development direction of functional garments and working clothes. There is an urgent need to develop lightweight and efficient self-powered solutions. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) provide new possibilities for energy supply in smart clothing due to their significant advantages in capturing low-frequency energy and diverse, easily implementable features. Previously, TENG research in the field of clothing mainly focused on new materials and textile structures. This article proposes a self-powered design method for smart clothing based on the principle of TENGs. By comparing the power generation efficiency, applicable clothing parts, and wearing comfort of four working modes, the horizontal sliding mode was ultimately selected as the optimal working mode for smart clothing. This is the first study to design and optimize the installation location and layout of TENGs applied to clothing through a finite-element modeling analysis method, and provide simulation results of output power under optimal conditions. The research results indicate that a single TENG installed at the elbow position of smart clothing can generate approximately 1.269 mW of power. Up to 32.994 mW of power can be obtained when multiple TENGs are connected in parallel, which can provide energy for common human health monitoring sensors. By adding energy storage modules, it is possible to achieve the scheduling of electrical energy in different states, thereby making the operation more stable. This article optimizes the design of smart clothing through simulation methods, improving efficiency and providing an effective solution for the development of smart clothing energy supply design.