Evaluation and Optimization of Energy Harvesting Cycles using Dielectric Elastomers

Electro Active Polymers can be used as generators to convert mechanical strain energy into electrical energy. The relative energy gain basically depends on the capacity change induced by the mechanical strain, while the amount of energy gain requires a certain initial quantity of charges, which can be shown by analytical equations as well as by experimental tests. Because the harvested energy is reduced by electrical losses, an energy-optimal cycle is established under consideration of the overall system efficiency.