Nonlinear finite element system simulation of piezoelectric vibration-based energy harvesters

Piezoelectric vibration-based energy harvesters consist of an electromechanical structure and electric circuitry, influencing each other. We propose a novel approach that allows finite element based system simulation nonlinear structures coupled to circuitries. In the influence circuit on is considered via vector external forces, using implicit time integration scheme. To demonstrate applicability new method active power considered. Several examples piezoelectric harvesters, connected standard or synchronized switch harvesting inductor (SSHI) circuits, showing linear mechanical behavior, are studied validate proposed against numerical results reported in literature. The advocated for consistent efficient simulations complete only one software tool.