Vibration energy harvesters
Vibration Energy Harvesters (VEHs) are an innovative technology that can be used to convert ambient vibration into electrical energy in order to power sensors and wireless communications. Energy can be harvested from a wide variety of vibration frequencies.
This can be useful in places where there is no access to hard-wired power or it may be difficult to replace batteries, perhaps because of restricted access for safety reasons such as:
- Self-powered wireless sensor nodes (WSNs) on bridges, flyovers, and tunnels.
- Condition monitoring of rotating equipment, such as pumps used in water works.
- Measuring vibration or acceleration of railway tracks.
Wireless, self-powered sensors can be installed on such structures to predict system failure, improving reliability and safety.
Parametric excitation VEH is a new development in this field that can convert thirty times more mechanical energy into electrical energy compared to standard VEH technologies. This means that the size and weight of the VEH unit can be significantly lower. Parametric Excitation VEH has been developed by the Centre for Smart Infrastructure at the University of Cambridge.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
[edit] External references.
- The Centre for Smart Infrastructure.
Featured articles and news
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.