Design and performance study of a rotating piezoelectric wind energy harvesting device with wind turbine structure

This paper proposes a rotating piezoelectric ambient wind energy harvesting device with wind turbine structure (R-PWEH), which mainly consists of wind turbine, support structure, excitation module, and power generation unit. This paper mainly investigates the effect of wind turbines with a different number of fan blades and units with different shapes of power generation on the performance output of R-PWEH. A series of experimental studies were conducted on the R-PWEH in the wind speed range of 0–20 m/s. In the experimental study at a wind speed of 16 m/s, the maximum voltage output of the R-PWEH was 114.24 V when the wind turbine with 11 fan blades and the rectangular cantilever beam power generation unit was installed. The optimal external load at this point is 8 kΩ and the maximum output power is 36.89 mW. The fastest charging rate for the capacitor at this parameter allows for easy powering of multiple light-emitting diodes for illumination. It has good prospects for development in practical applications, such as the ability to power micro and small sensors. •The wind turbine can better collect wind energy from the environment.•The use of excitation rod improves overall power generation efficiency.•The effects of different cantilever shapes on R-PWEH are analyzed in detail.•Hermetically sealed housing improves overall environmental adaptability.•It can supply power for micro-electronic devices.