This review presents different approaches of kinematic energy harvesting. Energy harvesting is the conversion at ambient energy present in the transportation system into electrical energy. Most vibration energy harvesters are based on spring-mass-damper systems which generate maximum ower when the frequency of the ambient vibration fits the resonant frequency of harvester. The strategy of the reduction of this limitation is discussed in the paper. At first the periodic tuning of the resonant frequency is explained. Additionally the method of continuous tuning is presented. The emphasis is placed on maximizing the power transferred from the energy harvester to the output load. It is consider the possibility of using a dynamic magnifier in order to amplify the harvested electrical power. It is showed that the proper parameter selection of the magnifier the power can be enhanced and the effective frequency bandwidth of the generator can be improved. Next is presented a comprehensive review of the principles mechanisms of transformation the kinematic energy into electrical energy. The three main transduction methods are based on piezoelectric, electromagnetic and electrostatic phenomena. Piezoelectric harvesters use active materials that generate an electric charge when stressed mechanically.

      Electromagnetic generators change the relative motion of conduction in magnetic field, on the principle at electromagnetic inductions. Electrostatic generators convert the relative movements between charged capacitor plates into electrical energy.

The advantages and disadvantages of each are described and evaluated and the relevant merits of each approach are concluded.