Broadband Energy Harvester for Tram Vibration Utilizing a 2-DOF Mass-Spring-Damper System

Abstract

This thesis presents a broadband vibrational energy harvesting device that utilizes a varied frequency from a tram using a 2-degree-of-freedom vibrational system combined with electromagnetic energy conversion. This paper will compare the power output for two design configurations of 2-DOF systems: open-end and closed-end designs. A stepwise optimization process is applied to determine (1) mechanical parameters for frequency tuning to adjust to the trams’ operational conditions, and (2) electromagnetic parameters for the whole system design to maximize power output. The 1st step will determine mechanical design parameters for frequency tuning: masses (mi) and spring constants (ki). The 2nd step will use these parameters as initial guesses and present electrical parameters and damping coefficients (ci) to maximize the power output in the frequency band of interest. The design results indicate that the closed-end design has a preferable performance, compared to the open-end design, in terms of broadband vibration energy harvesting with higher average power as well as manufacturability within design constraints.