A magnetostrictive system in public transportation is a technology that can potentially convert vibrations into electricity through the principle of magnetostriction. Magnetostriction is a property exhibited by certain materials that causes them to change their shape or dimensions in response to an applied magnetic field.
Here's a simplified explanation of how a magnetostrictive system in public transportation could work to convert vibrations into electricity:
Material Selection: The system would utilize magnetostrictive materials, which are usually ferromagnetic materials like iron, nickel, or their alloys. These materials exhibit a property where they change their shape in response to a magnetic field.
Mechanical Vibration: In public transportation, there are inherent vibrations generated due to the movement of the vehicle on tracks or roads. These vibrations cause the magnetostrictive material to undergo small changes in its shape.
Magnetostrictive Element: The magnetostrictive material is often used in the form of a rod or strip that can vibrate along with the external mechanical vibrations.
Magnetic Coil: Around the magnetostrictive material, a coil of wire is wound. This coil serves as an electromagnetic coil, much like those used in generators.
Magnetic Field Application: An external magnetic field is applied to the magnetostrictive material using the electromagnetic coil. This field can be generated by passing an electric current through the coil.
Vibration-Induced Changes: As the magnetostrictive material vibrates due to the transportation vibrations, its shape changes. This leads to a change in the magnetic field passing through the coil.
Electromagnetic Induction: According to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, a changing magnetic field induces an electromotive force (EMF) or voltage in a nearby conductor, which is the coil in this case.
Electricity Generation: The induced voltage across the coil can be collected and harnessed as electricity. This electricity can then be stored in batteries or used to power various electrical systems within the public transportation vehicle.
It's important to note that the efficiency of such a system depends on various factors, including the material properties, the amplitude and frequency of vibrations, the design of the magnetostrictive element and coil, and the conversion efficiency of the energy capture process. While magnetostrictive systems can potentially harness energy from vibrations, practical implementation and optimization are essential to ensure effective energy conversion and utilization in real-world public transportation scenarios.