Self-sensing Dielectric Elastomer Circuit Decoupling Oscillation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dielectric elastomer device (DED) systems require expensive high-voltage electronics and complex designs for self-sensing, which are not suitable for dielectric elastomer generators (DEG) and complicate the implementation of self-sensing due to the need for oscillations and high-voltage connections.
Innovation Solution
A self-sensing DED circuit with a decoupled oscillating signal source and current sensor, allowing for low-voltage oscillations independent of the high-voltage source, enabling self-sensing without permanent high-voltage connections and reducing the need for expensive electronics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-voltage electronics are used for self-sensing in DED systems, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sensing function from the actuation function by using a decoupled oscillating signal source that operates independently from the high-voltage actuation circuitry. This allows the sensing circuit to be analyzed separately from the complex high-voltage electronics, simplifying the overall system design while maintaining measurement precision through dedicated sensing pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an oscillating signal source as an intermediary element that couples to the DED but operates at low voltage. This intermediary enables capacitance sensing without requiring direct high-voltage connections to the sensing circuitry, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving measurement accuracy through the mediating oscillating signal.
2Loss of information
If high-voltage oscillations are applied for self-sensing, then feedback on device state is obtained, but reliability decreases due to dielectric breakdown risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter of the oscillating signal from high-voltage to low-voltage operation. By operating the sensing oscillations at low voltage levels decoupled from the high-voltage actuation system, the patent eliminates dielectric breakdown risks while maintaining the ability to obtain feedback information through capacitance measurements of the DED.
3Measurement precision
If expensive high-voltage electronics are used for self-sensing, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive high-voltage electronics with a low-voltage oscillating signal source that can be implemented using inexpensive components. The decoupled sensing circuit uses affordable low-voltage oscillators and standard measurement electronics, dramatically reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining sufficient measurement precision for feedback applications.
4Loss of information
If permanent high-voltage connections are maintained for self-sensing, then continuous feedback is available, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic sensing through an oscillating signal source that is decoupled from continuous high-voltage connections. The oscillating signal is applied periodically to the DED, enabling capacitance measurements at specific intervals without requiring permanent high-voltage connections. This periodic action provides sufficient feedback information while simplifying the connection architecture.
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
Enables accurate capacitance estimation and feedback parameter calculation, facilitating self-sensing in DEG systems without high-voltage oscillations, simplifying the design and reducing costs, while allowing for self-powered sensors and enhanced control strategies.
Implementation Method 1
an estimate of the capacitance of the DED can also be used to provide additional useful feedback data regarding the electrical state of the DED
Implementation Method 2
a current sensor provided in series with the first DED
Implementation Method 3
The dielectric elastomer membrane 11 is compressed by electrostatic pressure when a high voltage is applied across the electrodes 12 in the manner of a capacitor
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides circuits, systems and methods for dielectric elastomer device (DED) self-sensing. The circuit comprises a first DED coupled or adapted for coupling to a first voltage source (for providing an actuating or priming signal, for example); a current sensor provided in series with the first DED; and an oscillating signal source coupled to the first DED and adapted to cause an oscillation in a voltage across the DED, wherein the oscillating signal source is decoupled from the first voltage source.