NOVELTY - The energy conversion apparatus (2000) has a conditioning circuit which is coupled to a first electrode and a second electrode. The conditioning circuit applies an electric charge to the dielectric elastomer film when the dielectric elastomer film is in a strained state, and disconnects from the dielectric elastomer film when the dielectric elastomer film transitions from the strained state to a relaxed state. The conditioning circuit removes electrical charge from the dielectric elastomer film when the dielectric elastomer film reaches a relaxed state.    USE - Energy conversion apparatus e.g. electroactive polymer energy conversion device (claimed), such as electro-active polymer generator, for converting mechanical energy derived from windmills, wind turbines and hydroelectric plant, into electrical energy in a bi-directional manner.    ADVANTAGE - Improves electroactive polymer based energy converters with respect to target costs, efficiencies, reliabilities and overall performance by utilizing electroactive polymers which can change the capacitance that the dielectric elastomer undergoes while cyclically stretching and contracting in response to the mechanical power. Raises efficiency of the generator since more of the mechanical input into the low pre-strain direction can be converted to electrical output. Increases electrostatic energy since the mechanical change increases the voltage potential between the two electrode layers. Improves energy generation performance and ensures long term reliability since the system can be run with sufficient voltage breakdown margin. Prevents the electrode crack from migrating to adjacent electrodes since the energy traps in the form of a scalloped reinforcing beads are formed between the electrodes. Improves current carrying capacity for the electroactive polymer generator system since the lower conductivity provides charge distribution throughout the active areas. Enables use of a simple circuit for power generation since only a small starting voltage is necessary to get the generator started. Prevents loss-of-tension of the generator since an electrical charge is added at the maximum stroke and then removed just before the minimum stroke. Enables safe shut down of the system in an event of storm by monitoring fault conditions and excessive conditions. Optimizes and maximizes the performance of the electroactive polymer generators over a wide variety of operating conditions by providing a control system which can maximize the energy density of the electroactive polymer generator. Minimizes electrode losses when charging or discharging the generator by employing controlled charge transfer. Minimizes ripple torque by forming balanced counter-rotating elastic pairs.    DETAILED DESCRIPTION - An INDEPENDENT CLAIM is also included for a method of generating electrical energy from mechanical energy source.    DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING(S) - The drawing shows a perspective view of the six-phase electroactive polymer.    Electroactive polymer generator (2000)    Top keel (2004)    Bottom keel (2006)    Top shaft (2010)    Bottom shaft (2012)