A magnetostrictive system in aerospace engineering converts vibrations into electrical power through a process called magnetostriction. Magnetostriction is a phenomenon in which certain materials change their shape under the influence of a magnetic field. This property can be harnessed to generate electrical power from mechanical vibrations, such as those experienced by aerospace structures during flight.
Here's a simplified explanation of how a magnetostrictive energy harvesting system works in aerospace engineering:
Material Selection: A magnetostrictive material is chosen for its ability to exhibit significant changes in shape in response to a magnetic field. Terfenol-D (a type of rare-earth alloy) is a commonly used magnetostrictive material in such systems.
Mechanical Vibrations: During aerospace operations, the aircraft or spacecraft experiences mechanical vibrations due to various factors like engine operation, turbulence, and structural interactions.
Transducer Placement: Magnetostrictive transducers (also known as magnetostrictive harvesters) are strategically placed at locations on the aircraft or spacecraft where vibrations are expected to be strong. These transducers are typically attached to structural components or surfaces that experience significant oscillations.
Magnetic Field Application: The magnetostrictive material is exposed to a static or oscillating magnetic field generated by permanent magnets or electromagnetic coils. When the magnetostrictive material experiences a change in the magnetic field, it undergoes deformation or strain.
Deformation and Strain: The mechanical vibrations cause the magnetostrictive material to change its shape or dimensions in response to the applied magnetic field. This deformation or strain leads to the generation of mechanical energy within the material.
Electromagnetic Induction: The changing shape of the magnetostrictive material induces a fluctuating magnetic field around it. According to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, a changing magnetic field induces an electrical current in nearby conductive coils or circuits.
Electrical Output: The induced electrical current is collected and used to power electronic devices or charge batteries. This harvested electrical energy can be used to supplement power requirements on the aircraft or spacecraft.
Conversion and Regulation: The harvested electrical energy might need to go through conversion and regulation processes to match the desired voltage and current levels for the specific application.
Overall, a magnetostrictive energy harvesting system in aerospace engineering effectively converts mechanical vibrations into electrical power by exploiting the magnetostrictive properties of specific materials and the principles of electromagnetic induction. This technology can help improve the overall energy efficiency of aerospace systems and reduce the reliance on external power sources.