Electromechanical Transducer with Multi-Resonator Up-Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy harvesting devices face challenges in efficiently converting low-frequency mechanical vibrations into electrical energy due to complex structures, poor manufacturing reliability, and low energy conversion efficiencies, particularly when dealing with broadband vibration frequencies.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates multiple low-frequency mechanical resonators with different resonance frequencies coupled to a high-frequency resonator, which up-converts the low-frequency vibrations to a higher frequency, enhancing energy conversion efficiency through electrostatic transduction using MEMS variable capacitors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If existing energy harvesting devices are used to convert low-frequency mechanical vibrations into electrical energy, then energy conversion is achieved, but the structure becomes complex and manufacturing reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple resonator structures, each with specific resonance frequencies, that work together in a staged manner. The first resonator structures capture low-frequency vibrations and transfer energy to the second resonator structure, which converts it to electrical energy. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes mechanical resonance principles where the first resonator structures are designed with fundamental oscillation resonance frequencies that match the ambient vibration frequencies. This resonant coupling enables efficient energy transfer from low-frequency mechanical vibrations to the electromechanical transducer components, improving power output without increasing structural complexity.
2Power
If existing energy harvesting devices are used to convert mechanical vibrations, then electrical energy is generated, but manufacturing reliability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the energy harvesting function into separate resonator structures with distinct roles, each component can be manufactured and tested independently. The first resonator structures handle vibration capture while the second structure handles electrical conversion, allowing for specialized manufacturing processes that improve overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The first resonator structures act as intermediary elements that couple the ambient mechanical vibrations to the electromechanical transducer. This intermediate coupling mechanism protects the sensitive transducer components from direct exposure to variable vibration environments, improving manufacturing reliability and consistent performance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing energy harvesting devices are used for broadband vibration frequencies, then energy conversion occurs, but conversion efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple first resonator structures are employed, each with different fundamental oscillation resonance frequencies that correspond to different bands of ambient vibration frequencies. This frequency segmentation allows the device to adapt to broadband vibrations while maintaining high conversion efficiency in each frequency band through resonant coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves multi-functionality by handling multiple frequency bands simultaneously through the array of resonator structures with different resonance frequencies. Each resonator structure is optimized for its specific frequency range, allowing the overall system to efficiently convert broadband mechanical vibrations across a wide frequency spectrum.
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
This configuration effectively increases the efficiency of energy conversion from mechanical vibrations to electrical energy, achieving higher power output while maintaining a small physical footprint, suitable for powering low-power devices like those attached to insects for environmental sensing.
Implementation Method 1
the electromechanical transducer components of the second mechanical resonator structure convert the oscillations of the second resonating structure to electrical energy or signals
Implementation Method 2
one or more first mechanical resonator structures having respective first fundamental oscillation resonance frequencies; and a second mechanical resonator structure including one or more electromechanical transducer components, and having a second fundamental oscillation resonance frequency
Data Source
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AI summary
An electromechanical transducer, including: one or more first mechanical resonator structures having respective first fundamental oscillation resonance frequencies; and a second mechanical resonator structure including one or more electromechanical transducer components, and having a second fundamental oscillation resonance frequency that is substantially greater than the first fundamental resonance frequencies of the first mechanical resonator structures; wherein oscillations of the first mechanical resonator structures driven by external mechanical vibrations cause the first mechanical resonator structures to intermittently couple with the second resonating structure to drive oscillations of the second resonating structure such that the electromechanical transducer components of the second mechanical resonator structure convert the oscillations of the second resonating structure to electrical energy or signals.