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Maximum Energy that can be Harvested from a Dielectric Elastomer Generator

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 January 2011

Adrian Koh*
Affiliation:
asjkoh@seas.harvard.edu
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Abstract

Mechanical energy can be converted to electrical energy using a dielectric elastomer generator (DEG). The maximum amount of energy that can be harvested from a DEG is constrained by various modes of failure and operational limits. Known limiting mechanisms include electrical breakdown, electromechanical instability, loss of tension and rupture by stretch. These limits define a cycle where maximum energy can be harvested. The cycle was represented on work-conjugate planes, which can be used as a guide for the design of practical cycles. The amount of energy harvested is larger when a DEG is subject to equal-biaxial stretching.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2010

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