Piezoelectric photovoltaic micropower generator and method
US8901802B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 13, 2011 |
| Grant date | Dec 2, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 25, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH10N30/8554
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An energy harvesting device capable of harvesting multiple forms of energy. The device includes a base, a piezoelectric cantilever, and a carbon nanotube film. The piezoelectric cantilever includes a piezoelectric layer disposed between a top electrode and a bottom electrode. A proximate end of the piezoelectric cantilever is supported by the base. The base does not support a distal end of the piezoelectric cantilever. The piezoelectric cantilever is capable of converting vibration energy into electrical power. The carbon nanotube film is capable of absorbing electromagnetic radiation and thermal radiation, and thereafter transmitting heat to the piezoelectric layer. The piezoelectric layer is mechanically deformed in response to said heating, thereby generating electrical power.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.