Case-Encapsulated Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Harvesting Energy from Reciprocating Sliding Motion

Inventors at Georgia Tech have developed a compact case-encapsulated triboelectric nanogenerator (cTENG). The cTENG uses electrode pairs with fine-grating patterns on cylindrical sliding surfaces to generate an alternating current. With a 90 cm2 effective contact area an output current equivalent to 0.35 mA (DC) and an equivalent power of 12.2 mW (power density of 1.36 W/m2) were achieved for a 140 kΩ load at a sliding velocity of 1.0 m/s; additionally the output increases with an increase in velocity. The grating-design Kapton/copper surface with PTFE particle lubricant ensures a high output efficiency and durability. Unlike most other energy-harvesting technologies the cTENG targets reciprocating motions driven by either direct or inertia forces making it suitable for large-amplitude low-frequency ambient vibration motions in addition to small-amplitude high-frequency vibrations. The cTENG was demonstrated to effectively harness energy from human body and water wave motions indicating its potential use in applications such as portable self-powered electronics and power generation. Applications: Due to its compact size this invention would be useful in the production of portable and standalone self-powered electronics and power generators spanning a broad range of applications including remote sensors marine navigational aids portable consumer electronics (smartphones laptops/tablets MP3 players etc.) automotive and aerospace electronics and medical devices/implants.