Generation of Electrical Energy through Vehicle Impact in Shock Absorbers Using Layered Piezoelectric Plates

Recent research has focused on converting wasted energy from vibrations into useful electrical energy. Vehicle suspension dampers are a primary source of vibrational energy loss. Generating electrical energy through vehicle impacts is an innovative and efficient method for harnessing mechanical energy in vehicle suspension systems. This technology, particularly through the use of piezoelectric plates, which have the capability to convert mechanical energy into electricity, holds significant potential for widespread application and development. The aim of this study is to generate electrical energy from vehicle vibrations using layered and block-structured piezoelectric plates. This process utilizes 3D printing technology to design columnar dampers. Such an innovative approach can improve the efficiency of renewable energy systems and reduce reliance on traditional energy sources. In this laboratory study, piezoelectric plates are arranged in a columnar structure on piezoelectric blocks, with each block containing four piezoelectric units. In total, four layers of four piezoelectric units (16 piezoelectric units in total) are connected. At each connection point, dampers made of TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) are used. To optimize performance, instead of directly connecting the piezoelectric units in series, a diode bridge is employed to rectify the voltage before connecting each piezoelectric unit to the next. This process ensures that the output voltage from the piezoelectric units is damped as DC, thereby improving the system's efficiency.