Photovoltaic device

Abstract

The present specification relates to an apparatus (3) comprising: at least one photovoltaic energy harvester; an element (35) for storing the electrical energy harvested by the collector; a circuit (37) for measuring the voltage of the terminals of the collector; and an element (39) for switching between the collector on the one hand and the storage element and the measurement circuit on the other hand.

Description

[0001] This patent application is based on and claims priority to French patent application No. 2308159 entitled “Photovoltaic device”, filed on July 28, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated by reference to the extent permitted by law. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to photovoltaic sensors, and more specifically to photovoltaic sensors for indoor spaces. This disclosure is even more specifically applicable to lighting management systems in indoor spaces or smart buildings. Background Technology

[0003] Photovoltaic sensors are widely used to power point elements in indoor spaces. This can involve powering devices in IoT (Internet of Things) applications, presence detectors (e.g., infrared), cameras, lighting equipment, control boxes, and so on.

[0004] Compared to photovoltaic panels installed on building rooftops or in photovoltaic power plants, the photovoltaic panels used for this type of sensor are typically smaller in size and can take on various forms.

[0005] When associated with lighting equipment, photovoltaic sensors are sometimes also associated with infrared detectors to control the lighting. Additionally, these devices can be associated with brightness sensors to control the triggering of lighting based on a darkness threshold. Summary of the Invention

[0006] It is necessary to improve indoor lighting fixtures according to brightness.

[0007] One embodiment overcomes all or some of the disadvantages of known lighting devices.

[0008] One embodiment provides an apparatus comprising:

[0009] At least one photovoltaic energy sensor;

[0010] Storage element for storing electrical energy recovered by the sensor;

[0011] A measurement circuit for measuring the voltage at the terminals of a sensor; and

[0012] A switching element that is positioned between a sensor on one side and a storage element and a measurement circuit on the other.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the measurement of the voltage at the terminals of the photovoltaic sensor is performed under no-load conditions.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the measurement is converted into information about the brightness received by the sensor.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the device also includes a light shield that blocks light from reaching the sensor in one or more peripheral directions.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the sensor consists of at least one truncated conical photovoltaic panel carried by the housing of the device.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the device includes a plurality of concentric panels.

[0018] According to one embodiment, one or more panels are of a type in which the maximum electrical power supplied is determined by the unit or area of ​​the panel with the least illumination.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the sensor includes one or more photovoltaic panels supported by a base of the device's housing.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the screen constitutes a protruding element of the housing.

[0021] One embodiment provides a method for controlling a device as described, including the step of switching the switching element to couple a sensor to a measurement circuit, wherein the resting position of the switching element couples the sensor to an energy storage element.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the steps are periodic and last for at least 10 times less than the duration for which the switching element couples the sensor to the energy storage element between two switching operations.

[0023] One embodiment provides a lighting management system for an indoor space, comprising:

[0024] One or more artificial light sources;

[0025] At least one device as described; and

[0026] A microcontroller that controls the level of artificial lighting based on a brightness setpoint. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The foregoing features and advantages, as well as other features and advantages, will be described in detail in the following description of specific embodiments given on a non-limiting basis with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0028] Figure 1 An embodiment of a lighting management system for an interior space is shown in a very illustrative manner;

[0029] Figure 2 It is shown in a very illustrative way. Figure 1 Examples of devices in a system;

[0030] Figure 3 It is shown in a very illustrative way. Figure 1Another embodiment of the system's equipment; and

[0031] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A schematic and functional view of the device. Detailed Implementation

[0032] In the various figures, the same elements are represented by the same reference numerals. In particular, structural and / or functional elements common to the various embodiments may have the same reference numerals and may have the same structure, dimensions, and material properties.

[0033] For clarity, only steps and elements useful for understanding the described embodiments are shown and detailed. In particular, since the described embodiments are compatible with conventional photovoltaic panels, implementation methods for photovoltaic panels are not described in detail.

[0034] Unless otherwise stated, when referring to two elements connected to each other, it means a direct connection without any intermediate elements other than conductors, and when referring to two elements coupled to each other, it means that the two elements can be connected or coupled through one or more other elements.

[0035] In the following description, when referring to absolute positional qualifiers such as “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” or relative positional qualifiers such as “up,” “down,” “above,” “below,” or orientational qualifiers such as “horizontal,” “vertical,” etc., the orientation of the photovoltaic equipment in the accompanying drawings or in its normal operating position is indicated unless otherwise stated.

[0036] Unless otherwise stated, the expressions “about,” “approximately,” “significantly,” and “about” mean within 10% or 10°, preferably within 5% or 5°.

[0037] The described embodiments provide ways to facilitate and optimize the control of artificial lighting levels in an indoor space by utilizing the presence of photovoltaic panels in electrical or electronic equipment located within that space. More specifically, the described embodiments provide the elimination of dedicated brightness sensors and the use of photovoltaic sensors to estimate the brightness of the indoor space.

[0038] Therefore, photovoltaic sensors equipped with electrical or electronic devices are not directly and exclusively coupled to the energy storage element (battery or capacitor) of the device, but can be coupled to the storage element or to a measurement circuit for measuring the no-load voltage of the sensor panel. This allows the no-load voltage to be used to estimate the ambient brightness near the device.

[0039] Figure 1 An embodiment of a lighting management system for an interior space is shown in a very illustrative manner.

[0040] In this example, the interior space 1 is illuminated by both natural light from windows or openings 12 leading to the outside and artificial light from an electrical lighting source 2.

[0041] According to the described embodiment, device 3 is placed (e.g., fixed) on the ceiling, for example, directly above a table or workbench. According to this example, one purpose is to even out and optimize the lighting of the workstation. This is one example, but device 3 could also be placed above a workshop, reading room, kitchen area, lounge area, and more generally in any interior space, whether or not it benefits from natural light other than artificial light.

[0042] Furthermore, the artificial lighting management system includes a device or controller 5 (typically a microcontroller) that includes or is associated with communication means (preferably radio frequency) with or to the device 3 and the source 2. The microcontroller may be part of a different control device 5 or may be integrated into the device 3 or the source 2.

[0043] Figure 2 It is shown in a very illustrative way. Figure 1 An embodiment of device 3 of the system.

[0044] In this example, device 3 has a roughly cylindrical shape.

[0045] The device 3 includes, in particular, a photovoltaic energy sensor 31, which is in the form of a circular photovoltaic panel (shaped like a disk) and is placed on the underside of the housing 33 of the device 3.

[0046] The housing 33 of the device defines a housing for various components, wherein:

[0047] Storage element 35 is used to store electrical energy recovered by sensor 31. Depending on the application, the storage element may be one or more batteries and / or one or more capacitors.

[0048] Measurement circuit 37 is used to measure the voltage at the terminals of sensor 31. This circuit provides information about the brightness captured by sensor 31 by measuring, for example, the no-load voltage at the terminals of the sensor; and

[0049] A switching element or circuit 39 is located between a sensor 31 on one side and a storage element 35 and a measurement circuit 37 on the other side.

[0050] The switching circuit 39 is used to couple the terminals of the photovoltaic panel 31 to the energy storage element 35 via the energy converter to adapt the voltage level between the panel 31 and the storage element 35, or to the measurement circuit 37.

[0051] When coupled to the measurement circuit 37, the panel 31 can be considered unloaded, i.e., it does not supply any energy. For example, the measurement circuit 37 has a sufficiently high input impedance so as not to interfere with the measurement results. The circuit 37 then measures the unloaded voltage at the terminals of the panel 31. This unloaded voltage represents the illumination received by the panel 31, and therefore represents the ambient brightness.

[0052] The brightness information is transmitted to the control device 5 and interpreted by its included microcontroller. The microcontroller then adjusts the intensity of the lighting source 2 to maintain the illumination of the workstation 4 at a set value.

[0053] The measurement is preferably performed periodically to accommodate the lighting of workstation 4. Therefore, the switching of the connection between sensor 31 and storage element 35 and measurement circuit 37 is performed periodically, for example, at a period between a few minutes and an hour or several hours, preferably less than 5 minutes. Furthermore, to maintain the power supply of sensor 31 to device 3, the duration of the period during which sensor 31 is coupled to measurement circuit 37 is at least 10 times shorter than the duration during which sensor 31 is coupled to energy storage element 35, preferably about 20 times shorter.

[0054] In the described embodiment, the aim is to measure or estimate the vertical (directly above) brightness of device 3. In particular, the aim is to limit the influence of natural light passing through window 12. However, photovoltaic panel 31 may capture light, including natural light, especially if it is not sufficiently far from the window or opening to the outside.

[0055] Therefore, in Figure 2 In this embodiment, device 3 is equipped with a screen 6 that blocks light from window 12. This screen 6 is formed, for example, of a skirt-like element, or more precisely, a section of a skirt-like element arranged to shield panel 31 from natural light from window 12. Therefore, panel 31 primarily captures light from below, i.e., from workstation 4.

[0056] Depending on the environment of the device, it can be equipped with multiple sections of skirt-like parts 6 to block light from natural light sources in multiple circumferential directions of the panel 31.

[0057] As a variant, the skirt is complete, that is, it surrounds the entire sensor 31 so that the brightness measurement is focused directly above the region of interest 4 (workstation or otherwise).

[0058] Figure 3 It is shown in a very illustrative way. Figure 1 Another embodiment of the system's device.

[0059] According to this embodiment, the sensor 31 consists of one or more (in the example shown) circularly rotating frustoconical photovoltaic panels 312.

[0060] For example, multiple concentric conical panels 312 of different diameters are supported by the conical housing 33 of the device 3. The cones are oriented with their largest diameter (their base) facing the ceiling of the interior space 1. Therefore, the photovoltaic panels 312 primarily capture light directly above the device 3.

[0061] Figure 3 The embodiment makes it possible to avoid using one or more light-shielding portions, provided that continuous panels 312 are available, i.e., each panel 312 surrounds the device. In this case, the illumination captured during the measurement cycle (i.e., luminance measurement) is uniform, regardless of whether the luminance is artificial 14 and comes from indoor space 1 or from natural light 16.

[0062] Preferably, a flexible photovoltaic panel 312 is used, which is attached (rolled up) to the housing 33 and connected in parallel or in series as required by the application.

[0063] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A schematic and functional view of the device.

[0064] exist Figure 4 In the example, the energy storage element 35, the measuring circuit 37, and the switching circuit 39 are shown on the outside of the device 3. However, it should be noted that in practice, they are part of the device 3 and inside the housing 33.

[0065] Figure 4 A functional example of the connection in which the positive (+) terminal of sensor 31 (panel 312 connected in parallel or series) is coupled to the first terminal 392 of a switching circuit is shown. Switch K couples this terminal 392 to either the second terminal 394 or the third terminal 396, and is controlled by a signal received from controller 5 at terminal 398. Terminal 394 is coupled to a terminal of energy storage element 35 (e.g., to the positive terminal of a battery capacitor or voltage regulator). Terminal 396 is coupled to the first (positive) terminal of measurement circuit 37. The reference potential terminal or negative potential terminal of element 35 and circuit 37 (where appropriate, via a switch controlled by circuit 5, such as switch K) is coupled to the negative (-) terminal of sensor 31. Circuit 37 is also coupled to controller 5, which is responsible for interpreting the measurement results.

[0066] Figure 4The illustrations are merely schematic and functional, and many practical implementations are possible within the capabilities of those skilled in the art, depending on the application, particularly the nature of device 3. Each photovoltaic panel completely surrounds the device. Preferably, a panel technology is chosen in which the power generated by the panel is limited by the least illuminated unit of the panel (i.e., the least illuminated area around the perimeter). Thus, the generated voltage is limited by the least illuminated area. This factor, which might otherwise be considered a disadvantage, is used to measure and adjust the brightness around the area of ​​interest 4. This is particularly advantageous in the case of a workstation, as uneven illumination in the area leads to visual fatigue and reduced cognitive efficiency. In particular, in the case of conventional stand-alone desk lamp type lighting, peripheral vision is plunged into darkness. Implementing the described solution using solar panels of the type described above allows the lighting to be adjusted according to the darkest peripheral area (e.g., 500 lux is considered a suitable level for office work).

[0067] When device 3 is installed in indoor space 1, once device 3 is in place, a system calibration procedure is performed based on the indoor space and its specific characteristics, particularly the location of the natural light entry point and the artificial light source 2. For example, one or more measurements of brightness are taken using specialized equipment (e.g., a lux meter), which are recorded or transmitted to controller 5, and simultaneously, the corresponding value of the no-load voltage at the terminals of sensor 3 measured by device 3 is transmitted. The microcontroller (programmed appropriately) can then calibrate or benchmark the system. This benchmarking then allows the brightness to be reliably adjusted to the set value recorded in controller 5.

[0068] Preferably, a calibration or benchmarking phase is performed whenever the environment of the device 3 in the indoor space 1 changes (e.g., the movement of the lighting source 2, the installation or removal of the lighting source 2, or the change of position of objects such as furniture that can (statically) change the light environment of the device 3).

[0069] Such as the described device, especially in its Figure 3 The device described in the embodiments can be associated with an infrared detector of the type described in international patent application PCT / EP2023 / 065745.

[0070] Various embodiments and variations have been described. Those skilled in the art will understand that certain features of these various embodiments and variations can be combined, and other variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In particular, Figure 2 and Figure 3 The choice between embodiments depends particularly on the functionality of device 3 and its implementation.

[0071] Finally, based on the functional indications given above, the actual implementation of the described embodiments and variations is within the capabilities of those skilled in the art. In particular, the actual implementation of the electronic controller for controlling the lighting intensity based on a setpoint and information about brightness obtained from the described device is within the capabilities of those skilled in the art. This also applies to integrating elements of the described device into electrical or electronic equipment, whether it be a lighting device or a device performing other functions (infrared detector, fan, etc.).

Claims

1. A device (3), comprising: At least one photovoltaic energy sensor (31) consists of at least one truncated cone-shaped photovoltaic panel (312) carried by the housing (33) of the device (3); Storage element (35) for storing electrical energy recovered by the sensor; Measurement circuit (37) is used to measure the voltage at the terminals of the sensor; as well as A switching element (39) is located between a sensor on one side and a storage element and a measurement circuit on the other side.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The voltage measurement of the terminals of the photovoltaic sensor (31) is performed under no-load conditions.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The measurement is converted into information about the brightness received by the sensor (31).

4. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 further includes a light shield (6) that blocks light from reaching the sensor (31) in one or more peripheral directions.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a plurality of concentric panels (312).

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The one or more panels are of a type in which the maximum electrical power supplied is determined by the unit or area of ​​the panel with the least illumination.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The sensor (31) also includes one or more photovoltaic panels supported by the base of the housing (33).

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The screen (6) forms a protruding element of the housing (33).

9. A method for controlling a device (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising the step of switching the switching element (39) to couple a sensor (31) to a measurement circuit (37), wherein a rest position of the switching element couples the sensor to an energy storage element (35).

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The steps are periodic and last for at least 10 times less than the duration during which the switching element (39) couples the sensor (31) to the energy storage element (35) between two switching operations.

11. A lighting management system for managing the lighting of an indoor space (1), comprising: One or more artificial light sources (2); At least one device (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 8; as well as The microcontroller (5) controls the level of artificial lighting based on the brightness setpoint.

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