The application of piezoelectric materials to convert kinetic energy into electrical energy

Purpose: The main goal was to determine the efficiency of converting kinetic energy into electrical energy in piezoelectric materials. The article presents research results regarding the relationship between the number of piezoelectric transducers, the generated voltage, and the relationship between the pressure force and the induced voltage. Design/methodology/approach: Experimental research began with determining whether the voltage generated by piezoelectric transducers connected in series is proportional to their number. The spacers were then applied to see if this increased the performance of the test platform. The latest tests were carried out at the author's measurement station. Findings: The authors of the work researched electricity generation by piezoelectric materials, confirming their potential but showing limitations related to the brittleness of the materials. The work suggests the possibility of improving the efficiency of these materials by examining the influence of the pressure frequency on the obtained value of the generated voltage. Research limitations/implications: The main limitation was the need to develop an optimal test platform design that would effectively use the piezoelectric potential of the transducers while preventing their damage. The results were not entirely satisfactory; therefore, future research is intended to optimise the parameters of transducers and the test platform to maximise efficiency in converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. Practical implications: A practical application of the obtained results may be using energy produced using piezoelectric membranes in renewable energy, for example, to power streetlamps, road signs, or other low-power devices. Originality/value: The main originality of the research is the possibility of its practical application. Research on such many piezoelectric membranes connected in series is rare, which makes this configuration original.