Influence of the configuration of elastic and dissipative elements on the energy harvesting efficiency of a tunnel effect energy harvester

Paper presents computer simulations conducted to study the influence of the configuration of an energy harvesting system with tunnel mechanical characteristics in terms of its energy generation efficiency. In this context, numerical simulation experiments were carried out to assess the impact of physical properties and initial conditions on the occurrence of coexisting solutions and its energy efficiency. Chaotic motion zones were identified on the basis of Lyapunov exponent. To be able to choose the best solution in terms of energy efficiency, studies on the use of impulse excitation to change the orbit of the solution were also presented. Results show that modifying the energy harvesting system design with an impulse excitation subsystem can significantly improve (up to tenfold) the amount of energy harvested from vibrating mechanical devices. •A new energy harvesting system has been designed (TEEH).•The parameters' domains have been identified where the optimal energy harvesting is achieved.•The method of impulse excitation to change the unfavorable orbits is developed.•Basins of attraction of coexisting solutions are identified.