Dr. Yu Xiao
UM Mechanical Engineering Researcher Awarded Distinguished Dissertation Award for Creating Energy from Vehicle Vibrations
Dr. Yu Xiao of the University of Manitoba’s Department of Mechanical Engineering has been awarded the UM Distinguished Dissertation Award in Applied Sciences for his research on sustainable energy harvesting through vibration-based piezoelectric generators.
Dr. Xiao’s doctoral thesis, titled “Study on Piezoelectric Energy Generation under High Frequency Excitation,” presents the research development of a piezoelectric energy generator (PEG), also known as an energy harvester, that captures and converts high-frequency vibrations from vehicle brake rotors into electricity.
This research introduces an innovative approach to harnessing friction-induced vibrations (FIV), the natural byproduct of braking systems, by turning what is typically considered waste energy into a sustainable power source. This advancement has broad implications for the future of self-powered autonomous and intelligent sensor platforms. Potential applications include the real-time monitoring of industrial machines, vehicles and transportation systems, civil infrastructure, and even wearable electronics.
Inspired by the growing demand for wireless sensors and small electronics that can run for a long time without battery changes, he set out to explore alternative power sources. Since batteries wear out and can be costly to replace-especially in hard-to-reach places, he wanted to explore ways to harvest “free” energy that is already present in the environment, like vibrations from machines or vehicles. Dr. Xiao tested ways to improve energy generation by using new techniques like adding magnetic springs and using different vibration methods. These changes helped expand the range of speeds and frequencies at which the PEGs can operate, making them more useful in real-world conditions.
An unexpected discovery was finding that friction-induced vibrations—something usually seen as a problem in mechanical systems—could actually produce very strong and useful energy outputs. By designing the system to take advantage of this effect, better results than expected were achieved.
This award-winning research helps move closer to a future where wasted energy can be captured from everyday actions, like when braking while driving a car for example, to power smart systems that reduce our need for frequent battery replacement, making devices more sustainable and reducing maintenance costs. It could be especially useful for sensors in vehicles, factories, and remote monitoring systems, where replacing batteries is difficult or expensive. Dr. Xiao provided “ I plan to continue to develop and improve energy harvesters, exploring new designs that can work in even more challenging environments, and working with industry partners to bring this technology into real-world applications, such as smart transportation systems and self-powered monitoring devices.”
Fittingly, on National Energy Efficiency Day, October 2, this achievement underscores the role of innovative research in building a more sustainable future.
The UM Distinguished Dissertation Award recognizes outstanding doctoral research that contributes significantly to the advancement of knowledge in applied sciences. Dr. Xiao’s innovative, interdisciplinary work exemplifies this mission and positions the University of Manitoba at the forefront of smart energy system development.