A Rope-Driven Hybrid Triboelectric-Electromagnetic Generator for Ocean Energy Harvesting and Information Sensing
Fan Wu1, Xingwen Chen2, Chuang Zhou1
1School of Marine Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Adaptability for Industrial Products, Sun Yat-sen University & Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519000, China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|March 24, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a hybrid generator for simultaneous ocean energy harvesting and wave condition sensing. The system integrates a disc-type permanent magnet generator and triboelectric nanogenerators for efficient power generation and marine environment monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Marine Engineering
- Renewable Energy Systems
- Sensor Technology
Background:
- Current ocean energy systems lack integration between power generation and information sensing.
- Separate ocean power generators and sensors limit overall system efficiency and functionality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a hybrid generator system for simultaneous ocean energy harvesting and information sensing.
- To enhance resource utilization and disaster prevention in marine environments.
- To create a robust system deployable in diverse marine settings.
Main Methods:
- A hybrid electromagnetic-triboelectric generator system driven by buoy-induced motion.
- Mechanical energy storage using an overrunning clutch, flywheel, and coil spring.
- A disc-type permanent magnet generator (DPMG) for continuous power generation.
- Two triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) for monitoring wave conditions and alarming severe events.
Main Results:
- Achieved simultaneous energy harvesting and information sensing capabilities.
- Demonstrated continuous electrical power generation via inertial energy storage and release.
- Successfully distinguished wave motion and alarmed severe conditions using TENGs.
- Reported power densities of 240.63 W/m³ for DPMG and 89.52 mW/m³ for TENG.
Conclusions:
- The hybrid generator system offers an innovative approach to improve energy harvesting efficiency.
- Successfully integrated energy harvesting and information sensing into a single, robust system.
- Validated system performance through flume and ocean field experiments, showing high survival capability.
Keywords:
energy conversion systemsocean energy harvestingocean wave energiesself-powered sensingtriboelectric nanogeneratorsMore Related Videos
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