Passive Rectifier for Vibration Generators based on Piezoelectric Elements with LC Resonance

Abstract

Energy harvesting systems have recently garnered significant attention. Mechanical vibrations are used as a type of energy source in such systems. However, it is important to improve the performance of vibration generators because they provide low power in the milliwatt or microwatt level. This study investigated the improvements in the output power using passive devices. A boost-type, current-improving passive rectifier was used in this study. Additionally, an input series inductor was employed to resonate the internal capacitor of the piezoelectric elements; consequently, the output power was increased. The validity of the proposed circuit was verified both numerically and experimentally.