Low frequency vibration energy harvester using spherical permanent magnet with non-uniform mass distribution

We present a non-resonant vibration energy harvesting device using springless spherical permanent magnet with non-uniform mass distribution as a proof mass. The magnet has its center-of-mass below the geometrical center, which generates a roly-poly-like motion in response to external vibrations. Two different types of magnet assemblies with different center-of-mass position have been fabricated and tested. Using the roly-poly-like magnets, proof-of-concept electromagnetic energy harvesters have been fabricated and tested. Moreover, effect of ferrofluid as a lubricant has been tested with the fabricated energy harvester. Maximum open-circuit voltage of 154.4mV and output power of 4.53μW have been obtained at 3g vibration at 12Hz with the fabricated device.