College of Engineering Poster Presentations
Title
Ceramic Electric Power Generator
Document Type
Student Presentation
Presentation Date
4-16-2012
Faculty Sponsor
Don Plumlee
Abstract
The capability to create small amounts of power using micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) sees use in many applications, including harsh environments. The scope of this project is to design and fabricate a prototype of an electrostatic generator using Low Temperature Co-fire Ceramic (LTCC) as opposed to traditional electromagnetic generator models. LTCC is a viable material due to its ability to operate at small scales, and its protective housing it provides to electrical circuits from harsh environments. Research on the basic fundamentals of the electrical relationship of the current in a capacitor was conducted to produce a concept model and properly scale the model into a MEMS device. The final output is a prototype variable capacitance generator with two levels of capacitor plates. The dielectric constant between the plates is changed over time using mechanical energy and a rotor that produces a power output. This design produces a viable source of electricity with LTCC, and provides a platform for further development of this concept.