Work

Design and Experimental Research of a Track Vibration Energy Harvester Based on a Wideband Magnetic Levitation Structure

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: With the rapid development of rail transit, how to power low-energy monitoring systems for the vast and complex infrastructure in the rail transit system is becoming an urgent problem. To achieve green and intelligent rail transit infrastructure while ensuring long-term operational safety, harvesting vibration energy from tracks to power wireless sensor networks has become a research hotspot. This paper designs a track vibration energy harvester based on a broadband magnetic levitation structure. First, a dynamic model of the harvester is established, and the corresponding dynamic equations, energy–velocity relationship, and system transfer function are derived. Also, by simulating electromagnetic interactions, the distribution pattern of magnetic density inside the energy harvester is revealed. Next, the response characteristics of the energy harvester are analyzed under single-frequency and multi-frequency excitation conditions. Using the Runge-Kutta algorithm for computational analysis, the optimal structural parameters of the energy harvester are designed. Finally, a magnetic levitation energy harvester prototype is constructed. Experimental validation confirmed the feasibility of the energy harvester and its adaptability to low-frequency vibration environments.

Source: Machines

DOI: 10.3390/machines14020225

Authors: Zhen Li, Lijun Rong, Aoxiang Lan, Mingze Tang, Yougang Sun

Institution: Tongji University

Language: English

Topic: Innovative Energy Harvesting Technologies

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896