Harnessing Wind Energy from Trees

Feb-15-16 Engineers have devised a piezoelectric power system that could harvest energy from the natural vibrations of tree-like structures.

Developed by team from Ohio State, the technology takes advantage of the resonant frequencies created when a large structure absorbs the energies of smaller, higher frequencies. The team compares the concept to the many footsteps of people walking over a bridge, some of which is absorbed by the structure to be transformed into a strong, low frequency.

With that in mind, the team created a proof of concept device able to harness the rather random vibrations caused by the wind blowing through tree-like structures. Their device, made up of small, L-shaped steel beams wrapped in the piezoelectric material polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) was able to produce about two volts. Though not ready for the real world, the device does establish the possibility of harnessing random wind vibrations for power.

More Info about this Invention:

[VICE.COM]
[LSVR.OSU.EDU]

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