How does a tiny generator turn vibrations into electricity?

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    Electricity Vibration
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the mechanism by which a tiny generator converts vibrations into electricity, exploring the underlying principles and technologies involved. Participants reference specific designs and historical examples related to this technology.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the mechanism that enables the conversion of vibrations into electricity.
  • Another participant suggests searching for information on piezoelectricity, implying it may be relevant to the discussion.
  • A different participant asserts that the generator in question is not piezoelectric and explains that it uses cantilever-mounted magnets to induce current in a copper coil, referencing Faraday's law of induction.
  • A later reply draws a parallel to magnetic pickup cartridges used in vinyl records, noting that these devices also operate based on Faraday's law without requiring an external power supply.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the technology used in the generator, with some asserting it is based on magnetic induction while others suggest piezoelectricity may be relevant. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific mechanisms involved.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of consensus on whether the generator operates through piezoelectricity or magnetic induction, and the discussion includes references to different technologies without fully resolving their applicability.

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I know what it does but what's the mechanism that turns vibration into electricity?
 
The key word you want to search is http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piezoelectricity"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
That generator is not piezoelectric. The URL the OP linked to describes how it works very well:

"The sugar cube-sized generator, a smaller version of a design already commercially available, uses cantilever-mounted magnets to induce a current in a copper coil"

Basically, magnets shake around more than the copper coils. Magnetic flux through the coils changes, which induces a current in the coil via Faraday's law of induction.
 
Those readers who are old enough to remember 33 RPM vinyl records may recall the magnetic pickup cartridge:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_cartridge
This pickup came in two configurations; moving magnet and moving coil. Neither had any battery or external power supply. Both work on the Faraday induction law.
Bob S
 

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