A Tumbler‐Inspired Multilayer‐Structured Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Wave Energy Harvesting

Abstract The escalating energy crisis has elevated wave energy as a promising renewable energy source, driving substantial research into efficient harvesting technologies. This study presents a novel tumbler‐inspired triboelectric nanogenerator (TB‐TENG) that overcomes the limitations of conventional wave energy harvesters, specifically high triggering thresholds and suboptimal power generation. The TB‐TENG employs a unique multi‐degree‐of‐freedom swinging mechanism on spherical plain bearings, enabling efficient energy conversion via wave‐induced inertial motion and subsequent cone‐to‐wall collisions. A refined folded architecture increases the contact area, thereby improving energy conversion efficiency. Under simulated wave conditions (velocity: 1250 mm s −1 ; displacement: 80 mm), the TB‐TENG achieves an open‐circuit voltage of 456 V, a short‐circuit current of 35.8 µA, and a power density of 8.35 W m 3 (with an internal resistance of 25 MΩ). The system charges a 47 µF capacitor to 2.26 V within 60 s. Furthermore, the system demonstrates practical utility by powering commercial LEDs and small‐scale electronic devices. These findings establish the TB‐TENG as a robust and efficient solution for wave energy harvesting technologies.