Nonlinear Vibration of a Loaded String in Energy Harvesting

Abstract

The design of wideband energy harvesters using beam structures typically involves complexities, particularly in low-frequency and low-energy environments where the limitations of beam structures become more prominent. To overcome these challenges, this study proposed a strategy for energy harvesting using a loaded-string system and established a theoretical model to investigate its performance. A parametric study was conducted for the string system regarding the initial tension, mass location, material stiffness and excitation amplitude. The accuracy of proposed model was verified through experimental validation. Frequency shifting phenomenon was observed in both theoretical and experimental analysis, demonstrating the wideband characteristics of the system. Furthermore, the proposed string structure allows for convenient parameter adjustments, enabling the tuning of its natural frequency and operating bandwidth to meet more stringent practical requirements. The string system provides a new direction for the design of energy harvesters to harness the low-frequency energy from the ambient environment.

Keywords: Loaded-string system, Nonlinear vibration, Wideband, Energy Harvesting