Inflated Circular Diaphragm Dielectric Elastomer Generators (CD-DEGs) are a special embodiment of polymeric transducer that can be used to convert pneumatic energy into high-voltage direct-current electricity. Potential application of CD-DEGs is as power take-off system for wave energy converters that are based on the oscillating water column principle. Optimal usage of CD-DEGs requires the adequate knowledge of their dynamic electro-mechanical response. This paper presents a test-rig for the experimental study of the dynamic response of CD-DEGs under different programmable electro-mechanical loading conditions. Experimental results acquired on the test-rig are also presented, which highlight the dynamic performances of CD-DEGs that are based on acrylic elastomer membranes and carbon conductive grease electrodes.

Volume Subject Area:
Modeling, Simulation and Control of Adaptive Systems
Topics:
Diaphragms (Mechanical devices), Diaphragms (Structural), Elastomers, Experimental characterization, Generators, Carbon, Dynamic response, Electrodes, Membranes, Transducers, Water, Wave energy converters
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Copyright © 2014 by ASME
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