Modelling and simulation of a vertically integrated piezoelectric nanogenerator designed with nanowire arrays in vibration mode

Abstract

Nanogenerators have emerged as a revolutionary solution for sustainable energy harvesting by converting vibrational mechanical energy into electrical energy. This research was focused on the modelling and simulation of a vertically integrated nanogenerator (VING) utilizing zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowire arrays in vibration mode to power wearable devices. ZnO nanowires, with their remarkable piezoelectric properties and high aspect ratios, are explored for a nanogenerator to enhance energy conversion efficiency. In this research, a finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted using COMSOL Multiphysics 6.2 to study the induced piezoelectric outputs of the VING. To validate the FEA modelling, the piezoelectric constitutive equations were used to develop a mathematical model. The final results demonstrated significant potential for practical applications, including reliable power supply to wearable devices.