Integrating energy harvesting with active structural control systems: An overview

As the need for a strong and durable infrastructure continues to rise, considerable advancements have been made in the field of structural control. By utilizing sensors, actuators, and controllers, active structural control systems effectively mitigate the effects of dynamic loads on structures, such as those caused by wind, earthquakes, or traffic. However, one major hurdle in implementing these systems has been the availability of a dependable power source. Fortunately, the integration of energy harvesting into active structural control offers a groundbreaking solution to this issue. This revolutionary approach has the potential to create self-sufficient and versatile structures that not only improve safety and reliability but also enhance efficiency. Through the utilization of ambient energy sources, integrated systems present a promising solution for surpassing the conventional constraints surrounding power supply in active structural control. This not only promotes the practicality and efficiency of these systems, but also propels their effectiveness to new heights. Furthermore, the advancement of energy harvesting technologies has opened up exciting opportunities to power these active control systems with ambient energy sources. In this paper, we provide an all-encompassing view of how energy harvesting technologies can be integrated into active structural control systems, showcasing their potential synergy to elevate the overall performance and sustainability of engineering structures. The introduction begins by explaining the essential principles behind active structural control systems and energy harvesting technologies. It then explores the exciting potential of combining these two domains seamlessly. The paper thoroughly examines various energy harvesting mechanisms and their compatibility with different active control strategies. Additionally, the discussion delves into the potential advantages, such as improved sustainability, decreased dependence on external power sources, and greater system autonomy. This overview aims to provide a guidance to researchers, practitioners and policy makers who seek to push the boundaries of resilient industries through innovative sustainable solutions.