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Theoretical demonstration of a capacitive rotor for generation of alternating current from mechanical motion

Author

Listed:
  • Ehud Haimov

    (Tel-Aviv University)

  • Aidan Chapman

    (Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City Campus)

  • Fernando Bresme

    (Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City Campus
    Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus)

  • Andrew S. Holmes

    (Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus)

  • Tom Reddyhoff

    (Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus)

  • Michael Urbakh

    (Tel-Aviv University)

  • Alexei A. Kornyshev

    (Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City Campus
    Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus)

Abstract

Innovative concepts and materials are enabling energy harvesters for slower motion, particularly for personal wearables or portable small-scale applications, hence contributing to a future sustainable economy. Here we propose a principle for a capacitive rotor device and analyze its operation. This device is based on a rotor containing many capacitors in parallel. The rotation of the rotor causes periodic capacitance changes and, when connected to a reservoir-of-charge capacitor, induces alternating current. The properties of this device depend on the lubricating liquid situated between the capacitor’s electrodes, be it a highly polar liquid, organic electrolyte, or ionic liquid – we consider all these scenarios. An advantage of the capacitive rotor is its scalability. Such a lightweight device, weighing tens of grams, can be implemented in a shoe sole, generating a significant power output of the order of Watts. Scaled up, such systems can be used in portable wind or water turbines.

Suggested Citation

  • Ehud Haimov & Aidan Chapman & Fernando Bresme & Andrew S. Holmes & Tom Reddyhoff & Michael Urbakh & Alexei A. Kornyshev, 2021. "Theoretical demonstration of a capacitive rotor for generation of alternating current from mechanical motion," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 12(1), pages 1-13, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:12:y:2021:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-021-23891-6
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23891-6
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