Dielectric Elastomer Power Storage Using Switchable Capacitor Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dielectric elastomer power generation systems face inefficiencies in storing generated power due to the long charging time and low charging voltage requirements of secondary batteries, which are mismatched with the high voltage output of dielectric elastomer elements.
Innovation Solution
A dielectric elastomer power generation system that employs a control unit to connect capacitors in parallel for intermediate power storage, allowing for efficient voltage reduction and quick storage of generated power, using a switch unit to manage the connection between the power generation unit, intermediate power storage, and power storage unit, thereby optimizing power transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If secondary batteries are used for power storage, then chemical energy storage is achieved, but charging time becomes long and voltage compatibility is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces capacitors as an intermediary power storage device between the dielectric elastomer element and the secondary battery. The capacitors receive high-voltage, short-duration power from the elastomer element and transfer it to the battery at appropriate voltage levels, solving both the voltage compatibility and charging time issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The power storage system is segmented into two distinct components: capacitors for immediate high-voltage power reception and secondary batteries for stable long-term storage. This segmentation allows each component to operate in its optimal performance range.
2Reliability
If secondary batteries are used for power storage, then chemical energy storage is achieved, but voltage compatibility is poor due to low charging voltage requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter through capacitor configuration. By connecting capacitors in series during charging and in parallel during discharge, the system dynamically adjusts voltage levels to match both the high-voltage input from the elastomer element and the low-voltage requirements of the secondary battery.
3Power
If capacitors are connected in series for power input, then high voltage acceptance is achieved, but voltage reduction for battery charging becomes necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic switching of capacitor connections. The switch unit dynamically reconfigures the capacitor array from series connection (for high-voltage input) to parallel connection (for low-voltage battery charging), enabling voltage transformation without complex external circuitry.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enables efficient storage of power generated by dielectric elastomer elements, reducing the voltage to a suitable level for secondary batteries and allowing for rapid storage without chemical reactions, thereby improving overall power storage efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
power is generated by converting an external force (dynamic energy) that elongates the dielectric elastomer element into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
an intermediate power storage unit 3 having a plurality of capacitors 31 connected to each other in series
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Provided are: a power generator 1 including a dielectric elastomer element 11 with an elastomer layer 111 and electrodes 112 sandwiching the layer 111; an intermediate power storage including a specific number of capacitors 31 to receive output power from the power generator 1; a storage unit 5 to receive output power from the intermediate power storage 3; and a controller 2 for setting control by switching a mode between an input mode and an output mode. In the input mode, some number of the capacitors 31 of the intermediate power storage 3 are connected to the power generator 1 such that a series number is an input series number of less than or equal to the specific number. In the output mode, some number of the capacitors 31 are connected to the storage unit 5 such that the series number is an output series number which is smaller than the input series number. Thus, generated power can be more efficiently stored in a unit such as a secondary battery.