Energy conversion analysis and performance research on a cone-type dielectric electroactive polymer generator

As a type of intelligent material, dielectric electroactive polymer (DEAP) has shown considerable promise for energy harvesting purposes as well as in actuator mode. Theoretical analysis on DEAP generators is important to guide the optimization and design of a DEAP generator. In this paper, firstly, four working phases of a DEAP generator and energy conversion between mechanical energy input and electrical energy generated have been studied. Then, the model of a cone-type DEAP generator is established. On the basis of that, some key issues of a DEAP generator, such as capacitance, force-displacement relationship, distribution of stress and stretch ratio in the membrane, have been achieved by solving the differential and algebraic equations. It is demonstrated that the stretch displacement of a DEAP generator and bias voltage are the main factors influencing the amount of electrical energy generated and the efficiency of energy conversion. In addition, the failure rule of a DEAP generator has also been discussed. Finally, the proposed model is proved by experimental results, which shows the model is reliable for analyzing the cone-type DEAP generator.