Design of Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting Systems: A Topology Optimization Approach Based on Multilayer Plates and Shells

We develop a computational approach to analyze and design piezoelectric energy harvesting systems composed of layered plates and shells connected to an electrical circuit. The finite element method is used to model the coupled electromechanics of the piezoelectric harvesting structure and a lumped parameter model for the dynamics of the electrical circuit.

We assume the harvester is subjected to a prescribed harmonic base excitation and that the structural and electrical responses are linear. We use topology optimization to design the layout of a multilayer structure consisting of structural, piezoelectric, and electrode layers, as well as the electrical circuit.

The flexibility of our formalism admits the definition of specific system-level objectives, e.g., maximize the power harvested, in an algebraic fashion. After describing our analysis and design approaches, we present examples that demonstrate the versatility of our approach and show how it can be used to explore general behavior and develop overarching design principles for piezoelectric energy harvesting devices.

For the objective of maximizing the power harvested, we investigate: (i) optimal designs for various piezoelectric to substrate thickness ratios, (ii) the effect of mass loading on optimal design, and (iii) the sensitivity of designs to shape variations.