Optimizing Design of Piezoelectric Trimorph, as Positioning Element and Energy Harvesting Device

In future, demand on portable electronic devices will create the requirements of enduring recharged sources of power. A non-environmental friendly conventional battery with limited lifetimes has no longer feasible option. One of the mostly used solution is the piezoelectric composite structure with sensing and also actuating capabilities, mainly as a MEMS device. The optimum between actuating and energy harvesting functions is difficult to obtain. The article is presenting a study regarding the posibility to optimize both functions, performed using an analytical model and also by simulation using a FEA model.