Self-sensing Algorithms for Dielectric Elastomer Multilayer Stack-Transducers

Due to their unique properties transducers based on dielectric elastomers (DE) can be used as actuators, generators, sensors or even in combined operation mode. In case of DE-based sensors especially the stretch-dependent DE capacitance is used for the identification of the mechanical state. Within this contribution, the authors present algorithms based on the recursive extended least squares method to estimate the electrical parameters of the DE transducer. The estimation results can be improved by using a variable forgetting factor that ensures on the one hand a fast adaption of the estimates during transient operation, while measurement noises is suppressed sufficiently, on the other hand. Finally, these algorithms are experimentally validated using a silicone-based DE multilayer stack-transducer.