ERI: Bio-inspired Bistable Stochastic Energy Harvesting for Self-powered Smart Tires

NSF Award Search · 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $199,975 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This NSF ERI project aims to enable self-powered smart tire systems by harvesting electricity from vibrations generated by tire rotation, road roughness, and vehicle loading to support onboard sensing and communication. Modern vehicles, particularly autonomous and connected systems, increasingly rely on tire-embedded sensors for monitoring pressure, traction, and driving conditions. However, conventional battery-powered monitoring faces challenges when batteries deplete, requiring periodic replacement. With millions of vehicles in the U.S., each having four tires, this leads to substantial electronic waste and environmental degradation. This project will transform current limitations by introducing a bio-inspired bistable energy harvester that converts tire vibrations into electrical power, extending battery life and potentially eliminating replacement. The approach leverages bistable nonlinear dynamics and rotational effects to continuously adjust operating conditions for efficient energy conversion. The intellectual merit includes advancing the fundamental understanding of bio-inspired design, nonlinear dynamics, stochastic resonance, and coupled electromechanical behavior in rotating systems. The interdisciplinary research integrates mechanical engineering, energy conversion, materials science, and dynamics to develop design principles for broadband energy harvesting. The broader impacts include improving the sustainability and reliability of intelligent transportation sys

Key facts

NSF award ID
2552452
Awardee
Pennsylvania State Univ University Park (PA)
SAM.gov UEI
NPM2J7MSCF61
PI
Feng Qian
Primary program
01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Control systems & applications, CONTROL SYSTEMS, ENERGY CONVERSION
Estimated total
$199,975
Funds obligated
$199,975
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
06/15/2026 → 05/31/2028