Abstract:
This research presents an innovative exploration of piezoelectric energy harvesting within the automotive sector, focusing specifically on integrating a piezo bender system into a vehicle’s suspension. The system is designed to capture mechanical energy generated from road-induced vibrations and convert it into usable electrical energy. Using a MATLAB-based simulation, the study models energy output across different vehicle speeds and road conditions—ranging from extremely good to poor. The simulation results reveal that harsher road conditions, which naturally induce greater vibrations, significantly enhance the energy harvested by the piezoelectric system. The findings suggest that even under normal driving conditions, such systems can contribute meaningfully to the vehicle’s energy reservoir, potentially aiding in battery charging and overall vehicle energy efficiency.
Beyond technical performance, the study emphasizes the environmental and functional benefits of deploying piezoelectric technology in modern vehicles, particularly hybrid and electric models. By integrating such systems into the suspension, vehicles can harness energy that would otherwise go wasted, reducing overall energy consumption and extending battery life. This not only supports greater sustainability but also aligns with global efforts toward green automotive technologies. The research sets a foundation for future development, where optimization of the piezoelectric material, energy conversion efficiency, and system integration could further amplify the benefits. Overall, the project underscores the promising potential of vibration-based energy harvesting in enhancing automotive energy systems and driving forward eco-friendly innovation in transportation.
Aim:
This project focuses on improving the range of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) by harnessing energy from suspension vibrations, a typically wasted source of kinetic energy. By integrating a system that captures these vibrations and converts them into usable electrical power, the vehicle can extend its driving range without the need for an internal combustion engine. The project utilizes MATLAB/Simulink for the design and simulation of this energy recovery system, providing a practical and innovative solution for enhancing BEV efficiency. This technology offers a significant contribution to the advancement of BEVs by increasing energy utilization and minimizing reliance on external charging infrastructure, thus promoting sustainable and efficient electric mobility.
Objectives:
The primary focus of this project is to analyze and address energy loss areas in Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), particularly focusing on aerodynamic drag, suspension vibrational movement, and heat dissipation. By understanding these energy losses, the project aims to identify viable opportunities for energy recovery and range extension. Aerodynamic drag and heat dissipation are known to consume substantial amounts of power in BEVs, while suspension movement often goes unused despite its potential to generate power. Through this analysis, the project seeks to pinpoint where energy recovery systems can be most effective, laying the foundation for the development of innovative technologies that capture and store energy from these sources, ultimately eliminating the need for an internal combustion (IC) engine to support the BEV’s efficiency.
Using advanced simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, the project will model and simulate various range extender systems to assess their impact on the BEV’s range and energy efficiency across different driving conditions. These systems will capture and convert energy from suspension vibrations, aerodynamic drag, and heat dissipation into usable electrical energy, enhancing the overall performance of the vehicle. Furthermore, the design of range extender components will be done with a focus on ensuring compatibility with existing BEV architectures, considering critical factors such as weight and space limitations. A comprehensive computer model will be constructed to integrate these range extenders, enabling iterative testing and optimization to refine and improve the overall system’s performance and energy efficiency, thus providing a pathway for more sustainable and efficient BEVs.
