Work

Adaptive magneto-mechanical vibration energy harvesting system: Design and optimization of a novel spring-enhanced pendulum converter

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Low-amplitude vibrations represent a vast untapped energy source, but conventional harvesters fail to generate usable power below critical thresholds. This paper presents a novel magneto-spring mechanism that fundamentally transforms pendulum-based energy harvesting through non-contact torque modification. By strategically placing permanent magnets around a power spring, we achieve tunable mechanical energy storage without physical alteration. Finite element analysis using Arkkio’s method shows superior accuracy in predicting magnetic torque contributions. Experimental validation demonstrates remarkable improvements: N48 magnets achieve 19.4 mW peak power (273% increase) and 7.7 mW average power compared to conventional springs. The system reduces required angular displacement by up to 3 turns while maintaining higher voltage outputs. This breakthrough enables efficient energy harvesting from previously unusable low-frequency, irregular vibrations in IoT and industrial monitoring applications.

Source: Journal of Vibration and Control

DOI: 10.1177/10775463261418667

Authors: Slim Naifar, Olfa Kanoun

Institutions: University of Sfax, University of Gabès, Chemnitz University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Innovative Energy Harvesting Technologies

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: Technische Universität Chemnitz, Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung