Design and modelling of low frequency MEMS piezoelectric micro power generator for biomedical applications (2018-2019)

Researcher: Moh'd H.S AL-Rashdan

Abstract:  Piezoelectric micro-power generator (PMPG) converts mechanical vibration energy into electric energy from human body via piezoelectric effects. In cardiac pacemakers, the use of PMPG eliminates the need for a traditional lithium iodide battery replacement. Up to date, the previous studies shows a good way in order to model and fabricates PMPG but with low power density (i.e. large volume needed to replace normal batteries), and lower bandwidth especially for the applications below 100 Hz.    This project will cover modelling, optimization, simulation and fabrication process development of PMPG that, is able to harvest the human body mechanical vibration to be converted into usable electrical power in low frequency range (1-100) Hz with higher bandwidth. Transformer model for PMPG modelling in sensor mode is proposed, where PMPG can be represented as AC current source connected in parallel with capacitor and resistor.  For optimization purposes, Taguchi method with eight control parameters proposed. Signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio analysis, and ANOVA analysis is performed to determine the optimum design. COMSOL Multiphysics software will be used for different simulations. Both Taguchi and ANOVA results should be compared to each other in order to confirm the same results of determining the parameter of having the most influence on the generated electric power density. The maximum output power density and first mode resonance frequency will have determined using COMSOL Multiphysics software at optimized parameter, Eigen frequency analysis for the first six modes of operations and Transient analysis carried out its place at first resonance mode.  Based on the simulation results for PMPG with optimum parameter is satisfied our goal to power such small wearable biomedical device, the fabrication process of the device using MEMS technology will have developed and test the PMPG device results and compare it with simulation results.