High sensitivity fluid energy harvester

TL;DR

This paper presents a novel ambient energy harvester that efficiently converts kinetic energy from rain droplets and wind into electrical energy using electromagnetic induction and a cantilever, demonstrating promising laboratory results.

Contribution

The study introduces a combined energy harvesting device capable of harnessing rain and wind energy simultaneously with readily available materials.

Findings

Voltage output of 0.7-1VAC from rain and wind sources

Operates without changing geometry or materials

Effective under laboratory conditions

Abstract

An ambient energy harvesting device was design and fabricated. It can harness kinetic energy of rain droplets and low velocity wind flows. The energy converted into electrical energy by using a single device. The technique used by the device was based on the principles of electromagnetic induction and cantilever. Readily available materials were characterized and used for the fabrication of cantilever. Under the laboratory conditions, water droplets having diameter 4mm and wind with speed 0.5m/s were used as the two distinct sources. Without making any changes in the geometry or the materials used, the device was able to convert kinetic energy from both the sources to provide voltage in the range of 0.7-1VAC. The work was conceptualized to provide an autonomous device which can harness energy from both the renewable energy sources.