Experimentally optimized and field validated three-dimensional electromagnetic energy harvester for smart farming applications

Abstract

Kinetic energy from vibrations emerging from mechanical systems such as machines and vehicles has been thoroughly studied as a power source in the last two decades. Numerous kinetic energy harvesters have been built to convert human locomotion into electrical power but haven't been implemented on a wide commercial scale. On the other hand, energy harvesters for farm animals haven't been studied as much. In this paper, we present a three-dimensional electromagnetic induction based kinetic energy harvester optimized specifically for cattle wearable applications. All the device parameters are obtained with an empirical optimization procedure by considering specific cattle locomotion characteristics. The prototype is 3-D printed with low friction and impact resistant materials. Finally, the device is tested in a real free grazing scenario with live cattle. The kinetic energy harvester performed well and was able to power the load and transmit animal body temperature data over long distances for up to 7 times/h.