Nested Shell Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Low-Frequency Wave Energy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy harvesting devices for ocean wave energy, such as electromagnetic generators and conventional triboelectric nanogenerators, face challenges including low energy efficiency, high cost, complex design, and corrosion, especially when capturing low-frequency wave energy.
Innovation Solution
A hierarchically structured triboelectric nanogenerator (HS-TENG) apparatus with nested spherical shells and multiple freely movable PTFE balls between electrodes, optimized for efficient energy generation and space utilization, utilizing triboelectrification and electrostatic induction principles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional electromagnetic generators are used for wave energy harvesting, then the device can generate electricity, but the energy harvesting efficiency is low at low ocean wave frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional electromagnetic generators with a triboelectric nanogenerator system that uses friction-based charge generation. The nested spherical shells with multiple freely movable balls create triboelectric charging through contact and separation, eliminating the need for electromagnetic conversion and improving efficiency at low frequencies
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nested spherical shells where smaller shells are placed inside larger ones, each containing multiple balls. This nested structure maximizes the number of ball-electrode contacts within a compact volume, increasing energy harvesting efficiency without proportionally increasing device size
2Power
If conventional electromagnetic generators are used, then electricity can be generated, but the design becomes complex and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple, inexpensive materials such as PTFE balls and basic spherical shell structures that can be manufactured at low cost. The design avoids expensive electromagnetic components, rare earth magnets, and complex wiring systems, making the device more cost-effective
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into modular nested shells, each independently containing multiple balls and electrodes. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing and assembly of individual units that can be scaled by adding more shells or balls, reducing overall design complexity
3Power
If conventional electromagnetic generators are deployed in seawater, then energy harvesting can occur, but corrosion occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses spherical shell structures that can be manufactured from corrosion-resistant materials and sealed to protect internal components from seawater. The compact nested design minimizes exposed surface area, reducing corrosion risk while maintaining energy harvesting functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs simple geometric shapes (spheres and balls) that are inherently more resistant to stress concentration and fatigue compared to complex electromagnetic components. The design prioritizes structural simplicity and material durability to withstand harsh marine environments
4Productivity
If multiple balls are placed between electrodes in nested shells, then energy generation is maximized in small space, but device packaging becomes constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places smaller spherical shells containing multiple balls inside larger spherical shells, each layer contributing to energy generation. This nested arrangement achieves high energy generation density by maximizing the number of ball-electrode contacts within a compact spherical volume, effectively utilizing three-dimensional space
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 HS-TENG apparatus achieves higher energy harvesting efficiency and cost-effectiveness by maximizing energy generation in a small space, with improved performance at low-frequency wave motions, outperforming single-ball TENGs in output voltage, current, and power, while being more durable and lightweight.
Implementation Method 1
converting mechanical energy into electricity based on the coupled effect of triboelectrification and electrostatic induction
Implementation Method 2
converting mechanical energy into electricity based on the coupled effect of triboelectrification and electrostatic induction
Data Source
AI summary
A power generator or sensor apparatus is provided. In another aspect, a power generator is used for water wave energy harvesting. A further aspect provides a power generator including a buoyant, waterproof and/or enclosed outer shell, at least one enclosed inner shell located within the outer shell, a first plurality of balls located between the outer and inner shells, a second plurality of balls located within the inner shell, and spaced apart electrodes affixed to an interior surface of the outer shell. Moreover, an aspect of the present power generator uses fluid, such as water wave movement and wind blowing, to cause nested shells to move which moves multiple balls therein between spaced apart electrodes to generate triboelectric charges or energy for a variety of applications.