Vibration Analysis at Castello Ursino Picture Gallery (Sicily, Italy) for the Implementation of Self-Generating AlN-MEMS Sensors

Abstract

This work explores the potential of self-powered MEMS devices for application in the preventive conservation of cultural heritage. The main objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of piezoelectric aluminum nitride MEMS (AlN-MEMS) for monitoring vibrations and to investigate its potential for harvesting energy from vibrations, including those induced by visitors. A preliminary laboratory comparison was conducted between AlN-MEMS and the commercial device Tromino®. The study was then extended to the Picture Gallery of Ursino Castle, where joint measurements with the two devices were carried out. The analysis focused on identifying natural frequencies and vibrational energy levels by key metrics, including spectral peaks and the Power Spectral Density (PSD). The results indicated that the response of the AlN-MEMS aligned well with the data collected by the commercial device, especially observing high vibrational energy around 100 Hz. Such results validate the potential of AlN-MEMS for effective vibration measurement and for converting kinetic energy into electrical power, thereby eliminating the need for external power sources. Additionally, the vibrational analysis highlighted specific locations, such as the measurement point Cu4, as exhibiting the highest vibrational energy levels. These points could be used for placing MEMS sensors to ensure efficient vibration monitoring and energy harvesting.