Magnetic-assisted self-powered vehicle motion sensor based on triboelectric nanogenerator for real-time monitoring of vehicle motion states

The monitoring of vehicle motion states is a key factor to ensure smooth, safe, and efficient management of traffic in intelligent transportation systems. However, employing multiple sensors for vehicle motion states monitoring not only increases system costs but also complicates the wiring. Here, we propose an integrated magnetic-assisted self-powered vehicle motion sensor (MSVMS) based on a triboelectric nanogenerator for real-time monitoring of vehicle motion states, including acceleration, angular speed, and inclination angle. By introducing a magnetic repulsion adjustment system, the sensor can achieve automatic resetting and effectively monitor the vehicle’s motion state during normal driving. Experimental results indicate that the electromagnetic generator (EMG) unit can achieve a maximum peak power of 4.5 mW at an optimal load resistance of 1 kΩ. Meanwhile, the triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) unit demonstrated good sensing performance for acceleration, angular speed, and inclination angle, with fitting coefficients of 0.99, 0.979, and 0.978, respectively. Finally, the feasibility of the MSVMS in monitoring acceleration magnitude and direction is verified in a vehicle motion sensing system and actual vehicle test scenarios. This work further validates the potential application prospects of MSVMS in intelligent transportation systems.