Electrostatic Positioning Electrodes for Vibration Energy Harvesters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power generating devices using electrostatic induction face efficiency drops due to movable substrate not returning to static position efficiently, leading to spring fatigue and reduced reliability, and the use of magnets increases manufacturing complexity and efficiency issues.
Innovation Solution
A power generating device with first and second positioning electrodes of opposite polarities that overlap partially, using strap-like shapes with varying widths and pitches to generate a strong electrostatic attraction, allowing efficient return to static position and stable power generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If support springs are used to return the movable substrate to the static position, then the movable substrate can be restored to its initial position, but the springs undergo repeated compression and expansion movements causing fatigue and deterioration which reduces reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical spring-based return mechanism with an electrostatic field-based positioning system. Positioning electrodes generate electrostatic attraction forces that pull the movable substrate back to its static position without mechanical contact or repeated compression/expansion cycles, thereby eliminating spring fatigue and improving reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the positioning system by using variable voltage control on the positioning electrodes. By adjusting the voltage levels dynamically, the electrostatic attraction force can be modulated to provide appropriate restoring force under different vibration conditions, improving both reliability and adaptability
2Reliability
If magnets are embedded in the fixed substrate to return movable portions to static positions, then the movable portions can be returned to static positions by magnetic attraction, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex and requires additional steps that may damage the production line
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the magnetic field-based return mechanism with an electrostatic field-based system. Instead of embedding magnets in the fixed substrate, positioning electrodes are used to generate electrostatic attraction forces, simplifying the manufacturing process while achieving the same functional outcome of returning the movable substrate to its static position
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs variable voltage control on the positioning electrodes to dynamically adjust the electrostatic attraction force. This parameter-based control approach replaces the fixed magnetic field strength, allowing for more flexible and manufacturable design while maintaining reliable substrate positioning
3Reliability
If magnets are used to return the movable substrate to the static position, then positioning can be achieved, but when strong vibrations are applied the movable substrate moves away from the magnets and the magnetic force becomes smaller causing delayed return and reduced generation efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses variable voltage control on the positioning electrodes to dynamically adjust the electrostatic attraction force in response to vibration intensity. When strong vibrations occur and the movable substrate moves away, the voltage is increased to maintain sufficient attraction force, ensuring timely return and maintaining power generation efficiency under varying vibration conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic positioning system where the voltage applied to the positioning electrodes is adjusted in real-time based on the vibration conditions and substrate position. This dynamic control allows the electrostatic attraction force to adapt to changing operational conditions, maintaining positioning accuracy and generation efficiency across different vibration amplitudes
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
The device achieves high reliability and efficient power generation by using electrostatic attraction to maintain substrate alignment, reducing fatigue and manufacturing complexity, and maintaining high efficiency across varying vibration amplitudes.
Implementation Method 1
the first positioning electrode and the second positioning electrode pull each other by electrostatic attraction
Implementation Method 2
power generation of an electrostatic induction type using vibration of the movable substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A power generating device includes a first substrate having a first electrode and a first positioning electrode being chargeable with a first polarity on a first surface, and a second substrate movable within a predetermined range from a static position in the planar direction of the first substrate and having a second electrode and a second positioning electrode being chargeable with a second polarity opposite to the first polarity on a second surface opposing the first surface. Overlapping the first positioning electrode and the second positioning electrode at least partially in plan view of the first substrate in the static position can cause the second substrate to return to the static position due to electrostatic attraction generated between the first positioning electrode and the second positioning electrode.