Development of a power generation device for multi-mode vibration in automobiles

Vibration power generation is one of energy harvesting technologies using renewable energy. In this paper, a novel vibration power generation device for vehicles where effective power generation can be obtained by multi-mode vibration of the vehicles is presented. First, road tests of the vehicle are performed, and then the obtained data is analyzed. Next, a vibration power generation device specially designed for the vehicle is proposed. This new device is composed of the multiple masses and spring plates equipped with a lead zirconate titanate (PZT), and is effective in multi-mode vibration. The validity of the developed device is confirmed by the simulation and experimental results.