Harvesting Energy Using a Thin Unimorph Prestressed Bender: Geometrical Effects

Mathematical models and circuitry necessary for optimal energy conversion have been developed for piezoelectric devices because of their ability to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy. The piezoelectric device that is the focus of this study is a curved, thin unimorph prestressed bender. This device consists of layers of piezoelectric material, polyimide, and metal bonded at high temperatures. Effects of its layer composition and geometry on energy harvesting and actuation are investigated. Through this investigation, a method for developing empirical relationships is established and it is demonstrated that an actuator can be engineered so that the same energy output could be obtained with different materials by adjusting relevant parameters.