Optimal linear model for piezoelectric materials involved in road traffic energy harvesting applications

The optimal topological structure of the piezoelectric materials involved in road traffic harvesters is covered with the linearized models obtained using practical measurements. The behavior of that harvesters is analyzed in order to obtain practical results that guarantees the optimal tracked maximum power point of operation. Our specifically designed (patent pending) test bench generates regular traffic that emulates the real road traffic. In order to compare the measured response from the simulation test bench, data were collected from a real traffic sensing installation, build in an inner road of our University Campus. Experimental results are presented for piezoelectric cable, although the results obtained from a commercial piezoelectric are presented to explore the effect of mechanical amplification in order to improve the previous results.