Energy Harvesting

Description

Investigates the materials science and physics of energy harvesting with a focus on system configuration and efficient performance Presents mathematical theory and models of materials, electrical conductivity, and device design for vibration-based harvesters Highly relevant for courses in energy harvesting, sustainable and renewable energy, thermal energy, wind energy, solar energy, magnetic energy, and vibrations Extensive equations provided to illustrate and analyze materials and energy flow ANSYS codes included to assist with FEM analysis of magnetic flux devices This text investigates the materials science and physics of energy harvesting, with a focus on system configuration and efficient performance. It presents the mathematical theory of materials, electrical conductivity, and device design for vibration-based harvesters, thermoelectrics, photovoltaics, wind-energy turbines, and hybrids thereof. Examples include piezoelectrics in wind turbines, as well as approaches using shape-memory alloys, thermomagnetics, and electrostatic generation. Information is provided on testing, characterization, and modeling of EH systems, with extensive equations analyzing materials and energy flow. Circuitry, batteries, and capacitors are also covered. An appendix includes ANSYS codes for finite element analysis of magnetic flux devices. Educators will find this book highly relevant for courses in energy harvesting, sustainable and renewable energy, thermal energy, wind energy, solar energy, magnetic energy, and vibrations. Materials scientists, energy harvesting developers, and renewable energy specialists will find the book to be a key resource. FROM THE PREFACE In this book, we provide the fundamental concepts required to design, model, fabricate, and characterize efficient and cost-effective energy harvesters. Various types of harvester designs are discussed that harvest energy from vibration, thermal gradients, solar, and wind. The volume is arranged in a systematic manner explaining all the basic principles with essential mathematical and physical models. Wherever possible, supporting examples are included that provide a summary of ongoing and past developments. The exhaustive content on each of the sub-topics in this textbook gives students and researchers a strong foundation for understanding the design and operation of energy harvesters. Educators will find this book highly relevant for classes on energy harvesting, sustainable and renewable energy, thermal energy, wind energy, solar energy, magnetic energy, and vibrations.