Triboelectric Nanogenerator-based Self-Powered Sensors for Wireless Transmission-based Remote Monitoring

Abstract

Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs) have emerged as promising devices for harvesting mechanical energy from the environment and converting it into electrical energy. In this thesis, we explore the application of TENG technology for wireless power transmission, aiming to develop efficient and sustainable solutions for remote sensing, and wearable electronics. The research begins with an investigation into the fundamental principles of Triboelectric nanogenerators operation and the design considerations for optimizing performance parameters such as output voltage, and power density. The fabricated TENG consisted of PET-Kapton which showed a high voltage output of 35-50V and a power density of (1.538±0.520)⇥10 2. The TENG was integrated into a circuit composed of a rectifier and a voltage divider, which reduced the voltage to 8-13V. Then we focused on the development of TENG-based systems capable of wirelessly transmitting harvested energy over various distances, using an Arduino that can transmit data through WIFI. The wireless transmission was used with the Blynk application that shows the transmitted voltage and other environmental factors that can be installed in smart homes. Experimental validation and characterization of the wireless TENG setups are conducted to assess their efficiency, reliability, and scalability under different environmental conditions. The second wireless connection that was demonstrated was the parking space sensor, we had two microcontrollers that communicated through WIFI. Once a voltage is shown in the transmitter microcontroller the LED in the reciever will turn on. This wireless system has shown that we can benefit from wireless applications in many fields.

Date of Award	26 Jun 2024
Original language	American English
Supervisor	Anna-Maria Pappa (Supervisor)