Dielectric Elastomer Generator With Piezoelectric Voltage Boost
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Dielectric elastomer power generation systems face increased complexity and cost when attempting to apply higher initial voltages for enhanced power generation, requiring dedicated power supply circuits.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a piezoelectric element and a multi-stage voltage multiplier rectifier circuit, specifically a Cockcroft-Walton circuit, to boost and rectify voltage for the dielectric elastomer power generation system, eliminating the need for a dedicated power source and reducing system complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a dedicated power supply circuit is used to apply higher initial voltage to the dielectric elastomer element, then the amount of power generated increases, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoelectric element generates its own initial voltage through mechanical stress applied during the dielectric elastomer's stretching phase. This self-generated voltage eliminates the need for external power supply circuits, reducing system complexity while maintaining the ability to achieve high power generation through voltage multiplication
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a voltage multiplier circuit to transform the relatively low voltage generated by the piezoelectric element into a high initial voltage suitable for the dielectric elastomer. This parameter transformation allows the system to achieve high power output without requiring a complex high-voltage power supply
2Power
If a dedicated power supply circuit is used to apply higher initial voltage to the dielectric elastomer element, then the amount of power generated increases, but the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoelectric element serves dual purposes: it both senses the mechanical deformation and generates the electrical energy needed for operation. This self-powered approach eliminates costly external power supplies and complex voltage generation circuits, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining high power generation capability through the voltage multiplier
Solution Approach 2:
The piezoelectric element performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the initial voltage source and the sensing element. This multi-functionality reduces the total component count and system cost while enabling high power generation through the generated voltage being amplified by the multiplier circuit
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 reduces system construction costs while increasing power generation capacity by applying a higher initial voltage efficiently, enhancing reliability and power output.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric element and a multi-stage voltage multiplier rectifier circuit that boosts and rectifies a voltage generated by the piezoelectric element
Implementation Method 2
a multi-stage voltage multiplier rectifier circuit that boosts and rectifies a voltage generated by the piezoelectric element
Implementation Method 3
The working principle of power generation by a dielectric elastomer element is to use the capacitance change of the dielectric elastomer element induced by external force to produce a higher voltage than the voltage of initially applied charges
Data Source
AI summary
A dielectric elastomer power generation system A1 includes a dielectric elastomer power generation element 3 having a dielectric elastomer layer 31 and a pair of electrode layers 32 sandwiching the dielectric elastomer layer 31. The dielectric elastomer power generation system A1 further includes a piezoelectric element 1 and a multi-stage voltage multiplier/rectifier circuit 2 that boosts and rectifies the voltage generated by the piezoelectric element 1 and applies the resulting voltage as an initial voltage to the dielectric elastomer power generation element 3. This configuration enables the system to be constructed at a lower cost and increase the amount of power generation.