Energy harvester based on low cost piezoelectric membrane for road traffic application

Abstract Piezoelectric harvesters are environmentally sustainable alternative electrical production technologies aimed at supplying small autonomous devices. The particular application in roads has significant potential. However, there discrepancies about the effectiveness of these harvesters, and their costs limit market expansion abilities. In this context, a novel harvester approach is explored that includes low-cost membrane piezoelectric patches modified cymbal main novelty inclusion an inner contact column punctually transmits load caps to centre patch, maximising its deformation energy capabilities. Experimental tests on elements, embedder harvesting units have been performed with numerical simulations optimise design harvester. results indicate more punctual is, produced, reaching values ten times greater than those present configuration. Embedding into flexible pavement positioning it under wheel track beneficial aspects execution. Finally, dependency speed confirmed wheel-track representative pad system.