Understanding efficiency limits of dielectric elastomer driver circuitry

Ho Cheong Lo; Emilio Calius; Iain Anderson

doi:10.1117/12.2010336

9 April 2013 Understanding efficiency limits of dielectric elastomer driver circuitry

Ho Cheong Lo, Emilio Calius, Iain Anderson

Proceedings Volume 8687, Electroactive Polymer Actuators and Devices (EAPAD) 2013; 86870E (2013) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2010336
Event: SPIE Smart Structures and Materials + Nondestructive Evaluation and Health Monitoring, 2013, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

Dielectric elastomers (DEs) can theoretically operate at efficiencies greater than that of electromagnetics. This is due to their unique mode of operation which involves charging and discharging a capacitive load at a few kilovolts (typically 1kV-4kV). Efficient recovery of the electrical energy stored in the capacitance of the DE is essential in achieving favourable efficiencies as actuators or generators. This is not a trivial problem because the DE acts as a voltage source with a low capacity and a large output resistance. These properties are not ideal for a power source, and will reduce the performance of any power conditioning circuit utilizing inductors or transformers. This paper briefly explores how circuit parameters affect the performance of a simple inductor circuit used to transfer energy from a DE to another capacitor. These parameters must be taken into account when designing the driving circuitry to maximize performance.

Citation Download Citation

Ho Cheong Lo, Emilio Calius, and Iain Anderson "Understanding efficiency limits of dielectric elastomer driver circuitry", Proc. SPIE 8687, Electroactive Polymer Actuators and Devices (EAPAD) 2013, 86870E (9 April 2013); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2010336

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