A finite element approach for flexoelectric nonuniform nanobeam energy harvesters
Ruyan Sun, Dabiao Liu, Zhi Yan
Abstract
In this work, we present a finite element (FE) approach for analyzing flexoelectric beam energy harvesters with nonuniform cross-section. A two nodes finite element model with 10 degrees of freedom is proposed and Hermite polynomials are adopted to satisfy the higher order continuity requirement of the electric potential and displacement due to flexoelectricity. The proposed model can also be simplified to investigate a flexoelectric actuator, for which analytical solutions are obtained and thus can be used to validate the proposed FE method. Results indicate the performance of flexoelectric energy harvesters with nonuniform cross-section can exceed that of rectangular ones.
Topics & Concepts
FlexoelectricityFinite element methodActuatorHermite polynomialsWork (physics)Cross section (physics)Displacement (psychology)Degrees of freedom (physics and chemistry)Energy (signal processing)Beam (structure)Materials scienceStructural engineeringPhysicsMathematical analysisPiezoelectricityMathematicsMechanical engineeringEngineeringElectrical engineeringComposite materialPsychotherapistPsychologyQuantum mechanicsInnovative Energy Harvesting TechnologiesNonlocal and gradient elasticity in micro/nano structuresVibration Control and Rheological Fluids