Small-Scale Vortex-Induced Vibration Wind Energy Harvesters

The goal of this project was to find innovative ways to harvest wind energy using phenomena known as vortex shedding and aeroelastic fluttering. We developed two vibrational small-scale wind energy harvesters, employing the use of a bluff body and an airfoil. We compared the theoretical natural and shedding frequencies to determine specifications for the spring constants in each system. Using an electromagnetic transducer, we harvested up to 1 milliwatt of power. We demonstrated the feasibility of our designs and explored the possibilities of scaling the system for use in different applications