Small Scale Energy Harvesting from Micro Scale Cavitating Flows - Group 1

In this research, small bubbles will be generated in a controlled manner using multiple small flow restrictive elements (orifices, venturis) based on hydrodynamic cavitation. Small bubbles will be targeted to a thin plate with a surface of having roughness elements or micro pillars. The bubbles either collapse near the surface due to the pressure recovery or blast due to collision with the roughness elements and micro pillars, which releases energy thereby causing a rise in the local temperature.  Since many flow restrictive elements exist and bubble release is expected from each element due to functional surfaces, the rise in the temperature on the surface will be uniform.   As a result, the thin plate will act as the heat source of a thermoelectric generator.  The large temperature difference between the thin plate and cold side of the thermoelectric generator is expected to generate a high electrical power, which can easily meet personal energy needs.  Necessary power for daily used devices such as cell phones, laptops, and devices in offices could be supplied using this novel approach.  In this research, this device will be modeled.