Numerical Methods to Evaluate Hyperelastic Transducers: Hexagonal Distributed Embedded Energy Converters

Niffenegger, James Salvador (ORCID:0000000253762127); Boren, Blake (ORCID:0000000192123478)

doi:10.3390/en16248100

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Numerical Methods to Evaluate Hyperelastic Transducers: Hexagonal Distributed Embedded Energy Converters

Niffenegger, James Salvador (ORCID:0000000253762127)·Boren, Blake (ORCID:0000000192123478)

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Abstract

Hexagonal distributed embedded energy converters, also known as hexDEECs, are centimeter-scale energy transducers that leverage variable capacitance to generate electricity when their hyperelastic structure is dynamically deformed. To better understand, characterize, and optimize hexDEEC designs, a series of numerical methods and techniques were developed to model the hyperelastic mechanics of hexDEECs, electrostatic properties, and electricity generation characteristics. The numerical methods developed for the hyperelastic structural analysis were corroborated by empirical results from another study, and the models and equations for capacitance, electrostatic forces, and electrical potential energy were derived from fundamental electrostatic equations. These methods and techniques were implemented within the STAR-CCM+ multiphysics software Version 2020.3 (15.06.008) environment. Results from this analysis revealed methodologies and techniques necessary to model the energy converters, which will enable future exploration and optimization of more specific designs and corresponding applications.

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24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION DEEC-Tec STAR-CCM+distributed embedded energy converter technologies electrostatic energy transducer hexDEEC hexagonal distributed embedded energy converter hyperelastic hyperelasticity metamaterials multiphysics modeling numerical modeling renewable energy soft robotics variable capacitance variable capacitance generators

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Niffenegger, James Salvador (ORCID:0000000253762127), Boren, Blake (ORCID:0000000192123478). 2023-12-16. Numerical Methods to Evaluate Hyperelastic Transducers: Hexagonal Distributed Embedded Energy Converters. https://doi.org/10.3390/en16248100

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