A journey through motion-based energy harvesting: from devices to circuits
Résumé
Motion-based energy harvesting is an emerging field with the primary objective of developing autonomous, batteryless sensors that do not require maintenance. This tutorial will delve into the fundamentals of motion-based energy harvesting, covering both mechanical and electrical aspects. Starting from basic analysis of linear motion-based energy harvesters connected to simple AC-DC rectifiers, we will present, discuss, and confront the theory behind these straightforward devices with the challenges posed by real-world, out-of-the-lab applications. Following that, this tutorial will explore some of the research avenues that have been proposed for tackling these challenges and paving the way towards the development of industrial devices. Advanced topics such as nonlinear dynamics, self-powered circuits, and MEMS design will be discussed, in order to provide a broad overview of recent advancements in the realm of motion-based energy harvesters.