Dielectric elastomers as generators

Abstract

Dielectric elastomers used as generators have received considerable attention lately and several prototypes were built to demonstrate the process. The aim of the paper is to show how an innovative energy harvesting cycle can be realized to use the DEs as an efficient generator. It investigates the effects of (dis)charging instants, the current amplitude and how the parasitics of the material influences the energy gain and show what kind of trade-offs can be reached by selecting parameters carefully. Also an EAP emulator is introduced: it is able to implement a variable capacitor by a controllable power supply. It can be used for evaluating PTOs, tests, measurements; without the complexity, vulnerability and high price of the elastomer.