Experimental and theoretical analysis of a hybrid vibration energy harvester with integrated piezoelectric and electromagnetic interaction

Harvesting vibration energy has attracted the attention of researchers in recent decades as a promising approach for powering wireless sensor networks. The hybridization of piezoelectricity and electromagnetism has proven helpful in the improvement of vibration energy harvesting. In this study, we explore the integration of piezoelectric and electromagnetic parts in one vibration energy harvesting device. Lumped-parameter models of the system are derived considering the different connection topologies of the piezoelectric and electromagnetic parts. Numerical predictions from these models are compared with experimental results to throw light on the nonlinearities in the system. Modifications of the system are also explored to provide insights into opportunities to improve its performance and that of future vibration energy harvesters.