Mobile solar power supply unit using balloon-borne photovoltaics with reflective signal guidance for maritime emergencies and rescue situations

Abstract

Mobile solar power supply unit consisting of: • an inflatable balloon with a flexible solar cell layer, • a supporting and conductive connecting cable, • a coupling unit with slip ring and swivel joint, • a ground station, • and reflective signal surfaces on the balloon.

Description

Technical area:

[0001] The invention relates to a mobile, off-grid solar power supply unit, specifically designed for use in remote areas, emergency situations on watercraft, during expeditions, in disaster relief, and in military environments. The design utilizes a solar-coated balloon with a passive emergency signal and a rotationally stable power connection. The device also serves as a passive visual signal in distress at sea. State of the art:

[0002] Known portable photovoltaic systems are ground-based and dependent on terrain and shading. Floating emergency buoys are also known, as are reflective markers. A system that generates solar energy via a free-floating balloon and simultaneously serves as a visual distress signal does not yet exist. Object of the invention:

[0003] Providing a rapidly deployable, portable power supply that emits a passive light signal even in poor visibility and remains mechanically and electrically functional at all times - even when the balloon is rotating. Solution to the task:

[0004] The invention consists of the following features: 1. An inflatable balloon with a diameter of preferably 2.0 m, 2. Surface coating with flexible solar film (e.g. amorphous silicon), 3. Current-carrying connecting cable, which also serves as a rope, 4. A coupling unit consisting of: ◯ a mechanical swivel joint, ◯ an electrical slip ring, 5. Reflective signal surfaces on the balloon and 6. a reflective, spiral-wound adhesive tape along the cable (up to 30 m long), 7. A ground station that stores and distributes energy (battery pack, USB, 12 V, etc.). Preferred embodiment:

[0005] The balloon with a diameter of 2.0 m has a surface area of ​​12.6 m 2 and is about 4.2 m 3 Filled with helium. This creates: • an electrical output of up to 700 W (theoretical), • a load capacity of approximately 4 to 5 kg, • and a striking height of approximately 10 to 30 m, optimal for solar yield and visibility.

[0006] The reflectors serve as a visual signal in maritime emergencies, visible to ships and aircraft. The non-rotating slip ring and swivel system ensures continuous power supply even when rotating due to wind turbulence. Efficient use of space

[0007] The large surface of the balloon, preferably with a diameter of 2.0 m, allows a significant area of ​​about 12.6 m 2to absorb solar energy. By coating it with a flexible solar film, ideally made of amorphous silicon or another suitable thin-film technology, this surface is used highly efficiently for electricity generation. The lightweight construction of the solar film ensures that the helium volume required for buoyancy (approx. 4.2 m 3 The balloon's maximum lift (for a payload of 4 to 5 kg) is optimally utilized to lift the balloon to a height of 10 to 30 m. This height is crucial to minimize shadowing from objects on the ground or on the water and to ensure maximum solar radiation, resulting in efficient and continuous energy generation of up to 700 W (theoretical). The integration of the solar film directly onto the balloon layer also optimizes aerodynamics and reduces overall weight compared to systems with externally attached panels.

Claims

[1] Mobile solar power supply unit consisting of: • an inflatable balloon with a flexible solar cell layer, • a supporting and conductive connecting cable, • a coupling unit with slip ring and swivel joint, • a ground station, • and reflective signal surfaces on the balloon. [2] Device according to claim 1, characterized by that the balloon has a diameter of 2.0 m and can reach up to 4.2 m 3 Helium-filled. This balloon's diameter may vary. [3] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the cable is spirally provided with reflective tape to enable passive optical light signals during the day and at night. [4] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the ground station has charging sockets (USB, DC) and internal energy storage. [5] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the coupling unit consists of a stainless steel swivel and a slip ring with at least two contacts. [6] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the solar films cover an area of ​​up to 12.6 m 2 and enable a solar output of up to 700 W. [7] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the slip ring can conduct two separate current channels with at least 5 A each, independent of rotation. [8] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the entire unit can be stored in a portable container (e.g. bag, backpack).

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