How Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting from Bees’ Thorax Vibrations Achieves High Output Without Disrupting Flight

A research team from the Beijing Institute of Technology developed a lightweight piezoelectric energy harvester weighing 46 milligrams that harvests energy from the thorax vibrations of freely flying bees. Published in Cyborg and Bionic Systems on February 26, 2025, the study details how the device achieves high energy output (5.66 V and 1.27 mW/cm³) by matching the bees’ thoracic vibration frequency and optimizing their center of gravity distribution, with minimal interference to flight behavior. The harvester incorporates PVDF films for flexibility, a double-crystal structure to amplify voltage, and precise alignment with the bees’ natural vibration frequency (210–220 Hz). Experimental results demonstrate that the device enables efficient energy conversion without compromising flight stability, paving the way for self-sustaining insect cyborgs in applications such as environmental monitoring and rescue missions.

Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting from Freely Flying Bees

The researchers developed a lightweight piezoelectric energy harvester (PEH) weighing only 46 milligrams. This device was designed to match the thoracic vibration frequency of bees and optimize their center of gravity distribution, resulting in high energy output with minimal interference on flight behavior.

The PEH incorporates polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) films for flexibility and low mass, along with a double-crystal structure to enhance voltage output. The fabrication process involved laser-cutting copper substrates and bonding PVDF films using conductive adhesive. The use of 3D-printed molds ensured an ultralight design, critical for minimizing disruption to the bees’ flight dynamics.

Testing demonstrated consistent energy outputs of 5.66 volts and 1.27 milliwatts per cubic centimeter, surpassing previous solutions for beetles and moths. Biocompatibility tests revealed that bees equipped with the PEH maintained normal flight behavior, indicating minimal interference with their activities.

These findings underscore the effectiveness of the experimental setup in developing a functional and non-intrusive energy harvesting system suitable for ecological monitoring applications.

Future Applications and Challenges in Insect Cyborgs

The piezoelectric energy harvester (PEH) represents a significant advancement in insect cyborg technology, offering potential applications in environmental monitoring, search-and-rescue operations, and pest control. However, challenges remain in scaling the technology for broader use, improving device longevity, and addressing ethical concerns related to insect welfare.

As research continues, integrating advanced materials and miniaturisation techniques could further enhance the performance and usability of insect cyborg systems, paving the way for innovative applications in various fields.