Shape optimization of cantilever beam for wind energy harvesting

The aim of this paper is to model and simulate a cantilever beam as energy harvester to expose to wind vibrations. A mathematical model describes the behavior of cantilever beam and the electromechanical coupling, using piezoelectric constitutive equations. An experimental setup of a fixed configuration (dimensions, materials, boundaries and shape) is performed by means of such device and the effects caused by the wind force on the cantilever are analyzed. The same device is used for a simulation, implemented with Comsol Multiphysics, in which wind force is simulated like a pressure acting on the cantilever. The comparison between simulation and experimental results validates the simulation method and allows an appropriate choice of the most suitable shape for this kind of cantilever: the choice is carried out using the optimization platform KIMEME.