Output details
13 - Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Metallurgy and Materials
University of Southampton
A novel miniature airflow energy harvester for wireless sensing applications in buildings
Significance of output:
A novel generator for addressing the problems associated with harvesting significant energy at low wind-speeds is described. The design features a unique reciprocating action that confers enhanced system reliability, combined with world-leading performance (33% absolute lower starting wind velocity, and 2.5 times higher power density at <3m/s than competing technologies). Wind energy harvesting at low speeds is a new field and has application in powering low-power autonomous systems, such as intelligent sensors for air-conditioning systems in smart buildings, or monitoring of remote gas pipes. The work has led to a PhD project in association with a major gas supplier.