Electromagnetic Energy Harvester for Low-Frequency Vehicle Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack efficient, non-resonance dependent power harvesting solutions for the milliwatt-scale energy range, particularly for vehicles and other mechanical systems, which is too high for MEMS and too low for traditional wireless sensing devices.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising magnets and coils with a restoring force mechanism, allowing relative motion between the magnet and coil structures to generate electrical energy across a broad spectrum of vibrations and oscillations, including non-resonant frequencies, using electromagnetic generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication modules are added to enable remote monitoring and control, then system intelligence and user interaction are improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (sensing, processing, wireless communication, and control) into an integrated smart irrigation system. The controller unit merges data reception from sensors, decision-making algorithms, and communication protocols into a single coordinated system, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller unit serves multiple functions: it receives data from various sensors (soil moisture, temperature, humidity), processes this information using embedded algorithms, communicates with mobile devices via wireless protocols, and controls multiple irrigation zones. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple sensors and automated control systems are integrated, then irrigation precision and water efficiency are improved, but device complexity and initial cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The irrigation system is divided into independent zones, each with its own sensors and control capabilities. This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity by treating each zone as a separate controllable unit while achieving high overall precision through coordinated zone management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automated decision-making algorithms that enable self-service operation. The controller automatically processes sensor data, determines irrigation requirements, and activates pumps without human intervention, reducing the need for complex manual control interfaces while maintaining high precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Achieves efficient energy harvesting in the milliwatt range with conversion efficiencies exceeding 50-60%, suitable for vehicles and other mechanical systems with low-frequency oscillations, overcoming limitations of piezoelectric methods.
Implementation Method 1
the second button includes a piezoelectric material and a fabric layer
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
A solution for harvesting energy from motion resulting from operation of an object, such as a vehicle, is provided. The motion can comprise low-frequency motion. The solution can include at least one magnet, at least one coil, a magnet supporting structure, a coil supporting structure, and a design component which provides a restoring force to at least one of: the magnet supporting structure or the coil supporting structure so as to ensure relative motion between the magnet(s) and coil(s). The relative motion of the magnet(s) and coil(s) generate energy which can be harvested for wireless monitoring or other purposes.