Generating characteristics of a cross-shaped piezoelectric generator depending on elastic body material and leg length

The dependence of the generation characteristics of a cross-shaped piezoelectric generator on the material and leg length of the elastic body was studied. The generator consisted of a centrosymmetric thin cross-shaped elastic body and four rectangular piezoelectric ceramics that were attached to the upper surfaces of the four legs of the elastic body. Vibrations from a vibrating source were applied to the center of the elastic body. The centrosymmetric structure of the cross-shaped generator guarantees more stable and multiplied generation than a cantilever-type generator since the four legs of the generator resonate at the same frequency. The resonance and output characteristics of the generator were analyzed by using a finite element method (FEM) program. Generators were fabricated on the basis of analysis results and attached to a frequency controllable vibrator for determining their output characteristics. Further, experimental results were compared with simulated results. The speed of sound in the materials depends on the Young’s modulus and density of the materials. Accordingly, the resonance frequency of the generator decreased with a decrease in the velocity of sound in the material. The resonance frequency of the generator also decreased with an increase in the leg length. By changing the generator parameters, the resonance frequency of the generator can be controlled.