Research of Micro-power Generator Based on the Dielectric Electro Active Polymer

Dielectric Electro Active Polymers (DEAP) have shown great potential as actuator materials. Their predomination in transforming mechanical to electrical energy in a generator mode are less well known. This work investigates the materials characterization and fundamentals of DEAP generators, simulation verification of the phenomenon, practical issues, and potential applications. DEAP works as a variable capacitor. They show large deformation as high as 380% when submitted to an electric field. Furthermore these polymers are low cost, light, flexible, resistant, high energy densities and conversion efficiency. The paper discusses the modeling of the four phases DEAP-based energy harvesting cycle. The paper will supply theoretical foundation for potential applications such as an ongoing effort to develop a boot generator based on DEAP, as well as other applications such as conventional power generators, and wave and wind power applications.