Embedded wireless sensor networks are part of a strategy for implementing improved structural health and usage monitoring in rotorcraft. In order to realize this goal, methods of powering the embedded sensors have to be identified. One approach is to make the power supply become an integral part of the sensor. This integrated monitoring system will then be less intrusive and, therefore, easier to integrate into existing systems. Piezoelectric materials can be an important part of this strategy. One method to harness power is to use piezoelectric materials to recover energy lost due to vibration and rotation of the equipment. This recovered energy can then be used to provide energy to power sensors directly or to extend the lifespan of batteries which power the sensors. This paper investigates the potential of using strains on a rotating blade to power sensors during flight. The preliminary numerical investigation indicates that this may be a promising approach.
Numerical investigation of the vortex roll-up from a helicopter blade tip using a novel fixed-wing adaptation method