Multi-layer Noncontact Disk-shaped Electrostatic Microgenerator

Abstract

In this work, we present the fabrication and characterization of a novel multi-layer noncontact disk-shaped electrostatic microgenerator. The microgenerator aims to harvest kinetic energy from rotary motion in our daily life. The multi-layer structure is composed of pairs of energy harvesting units. Each unit consists of two parts: the rotational blades with copper electrodes that are attached to the center shaft and the stationary disk that is fixed on the external barrier structure. Compared to the previous two-plate structure, the current device has two unique merits: First, both sides of the stationary disk are coated with electret material and are corona charged. It is beneficial to maximize the output power density of the whole device. Second, with the help of the micro rotary bearing, multilayer rotary structure has been successfully implemented for the first time. Therefore, the overall performance has been multiplied by several folds and high output power can be readily achieved.