How do inertia-based energy harvesters work?

Other inertia-based energy harvesters often utilise a rotating mass, such as one design by Marszal et al. , which uses a single one-way clutch to rectify part of the motion of a pendulum to drive a motor in one direction. This device demonstrates the concept of mechanical rectification, but its efficiency and power density are limited.

How does a wave energy harvester work?

Similar to the self-winding principle of an automatic mechanical watch, the wave energy harvester transforms the random bidirectional swing of a pendulum bob into the unidirectional winding of a spiral spring, thereby realizing the collection and storage of wave energy.

How does a spiral spring store energy?

When storing energy, external torque drives the spring end to revolve around axis, and the spring deforms and retains the work in the form of elastic energy. As for releasing energy, the torque of the spiral spring drives external loads [23, 24].

How does a spiral spring control mechanism work?

By adjusting the motion frequency of the speed control mechanisms, the output speed and energy release rate can be controlled. Thus, the combination of a spiral spring device and a speed control mechanism provides uniform output for elastic energy storage.

What makes a successful energy storage system?

A successful implementation depends on how well the energy storage system is architected and assembled. The system's architecture can determine its performance and reliability, in concert with or even despite the technology it employs.

What is the free release of stored energy in a spiral spring?

The free release of stored energy in a spiral spring is spontaneous, during which the stored energy can be released completely in a very short time and the output speed and torque change rapidly.