A Bridge-Shaped Vibration Energy Harvester with Resonance Frequency Tunability under DC Bias Electric Field

A vibration piezoelectric energy harvester (PEH) is usually designed with a resonance frequency at the external excitation frequency for higher energy conversion efficiency. Here, we proposed a bridge-shaped PEH capable of tuning its resonance frequency by applying a direct current (DC) electric field on piezoelectric elements. A theoretical model of the relationship between the resonance frequency and DC electric field was first established. Then, a verification experiment was carried out and the results revealed that the resonance frequency of the PEH can be tuned by applying a DC electric field to it. In the absence of an axial preload, the resonance frequency of the PEH can be changed by about 18.7 Hz under the DC electric field range from -0.25 kV/mm to 0.25 kV/mm. With an axial preload of 5 N and 10 N, the resonance frequency bandwidth of the PEH can be tuned to about 13.4 Hz and 11.2 Hz, respectively. Further experimental results indicate that the output power and charging response of the PEH can also be significantly enhanced under a DC electric field when the excitation frequency deviates from the resonance frequency.