Solar panels for vehicles

Abstract

A solar power system configured to be used on a vehicle (130-Fig.9) comprises: a frame (20-Fig.1) having a base layer 21 to be mounted to the vehicle roof, and an actuated layer 22 configured to move

Description

Background The present invention relates to providing alternative power sources for electric vehicles, in particular, the application is looking at electric caravans or other mobile homes or other mobile accommodations such as caravans and tour buses. In recent years there has been a large increase in the use of electric vehicles of all kinds. Such vehicles rely on large batteries to provide driving force to the vehicle and the batteries need to be recharged to keep the vehicle active. When the vehicle is kept near or stored within a building the battery may be recharged from the mains within the building. Further many places now have charging stations or charging points where people can charge their vehicle batteries. This can sometimes mean that users of electric vehicles will need to plan their journeys carefully to ensure they do not drain their batteries, leaving themselves stranded. This problem can be even worse for mobile homes such as caravans or tour buses as these vehicles will have additional demand on the battery to operate the different utilities within the accommodation part of the vehicle. Further, these vehicles will often be used for longer journeys such as tours. During these journeys, the user is more likely to visit remote locations where recharge points may not be available. In some cases, the mobile home may spend several days parked in such a remote location increasing the risk of the battery draining without the means to recharge it. It is noted that in some cases these vehicles may use a generator when in a remote location. However, such generators are likely cumbersome. The generators are also likely to use fuel as a power source, thereby producing carbon dioxide and other pollutants when used. Further, these generators may take up a lot of room within the vehicle and may be difficult to keep moving in and out of the vehicle. All of these factors may make the use of a generator undesirable. To address these issues there is a need to provide users with a means of charging their electric vehicles when they are on the move, or when the vehicle is staying in a remote location. This power source should preferably provide green energy, this is to say the power needs to be renewable or at least have little to no carbon footprint. Summary The present invention relates to a recharging feature for use with electrical vehicles. More specifically, the claimed invention provides solar panels that are configured to be used with an electric vehicle, in particular, the invention provides solar panels that are configured to be mounted to a mobile home, caravan, or other similar vehicle accommodation. Wherein these solar panels can be used to provide power that may be used to recharge the vehicle's battery and may also power the vehicle's utilities directly when the battery is already charged. The claimed invention provides a mounting form that is configured to be coupled to the roof of the desired vehicle. This frame is preferably made of lightweight metal or alloy to prevent the frame from adding too much weight onto the vehicle which may affect the vehicle’s efficiency. However, it is also noted that this frame would need to be weather and erosionresistant as it will be exposed on the outside of the vehicle. Therefore, the frame may need to be further treated to increase the chemical resistance of the chosen material, or it may be preferable to use a metal or alloy that is chemically resistant such as steel. The frame will also be configured with mounting points, wherein these points will allow different objects to be mounted to the frame. More specifically, the claimed frame will have two types of mounting points. The first type of mounting point will be used to mount joints that will be used to couple the solar panels to the top side of the frame, note that these joints will allow the solar panel to move relative to the frame by pivoting around the joint. The other mounting point allows actuators to be mounted to the frame, wherein said actuators are configured to move the solar panel relative to the frame when actuated. It is also noted that some actuators may also be configured to move parts of the frame relative to the rest of the frame to allow a greater range of motion. For example, the frame may comprise multiple layers wherein a layer may move or pivot relative to the rest of the frame to provide a wider range of motion compared to a static frame. The actuators used with the claimed invention may comprise any suitable actuator that would allow the desired range of motion. It is noted that it is preferable for the actuators to be relatively lightweight to reduce the overall mass of the system, and needs to be relatively compact to fit within the frame. To this end, the system would preferably incorporate one or more linear actuators, as these actuators tend to have a smaller volume helping to reduce the overall mass. Though various types of linear actuators are a suitable size for the frame, it would be preferable to use linear actuators such as Hall actuators that can provide feedback to the system that can be used to indicate the current position of the actuator which can be used to track the position of the solar panel and the frame relative to the vehicle. This tracking information may be used to determine the current positions of the solar panel and moveable frame sections. This may allow the system to determine if the panels are in the optimal position based on the current direction of the light shining on the panel. The positioning data may also be used to determine that the frame and panel will avoid oncoming obstacles when the vehicle is moving, and may also be used to warn the driver if the frame or panels are unfolded when the vehicle begins moving, because if the panel is unfolded it is more likely to hit obstacles, for example, it may hit any bridges or tunnels that the vehicle drives under. As previously mentioned, the frame will also include one or more solar panels that are attached to the frame with one or more joints allowing the panels to be actuated relative to the rest of the frame by pivoting one or more of these joints. It is noted that there are several different types of solar panels, some are more flexible allowing the panel to be folded to decrease the volume of the overall system, and may be unfolded to increase the overall surface area of the panel may allow more energy to be absorbed. However, these panels are more fragile, and in adverse weather such as hail or during high winds, they are more likely to break. Therefore, it is preferable to use a solar panel that is more ridged and durable to ensure the panel can endure any adverse weather especially as the panel will likely be used in remote areas where there is little cover from the weather. In addition to the above the system will comprise a coupling between the solar panel and the vehicle. This coupling will allow the power generated by the solar panel to be directed to the vehicle's battery to charge the vehicle, additionally when the vehicle has accommodation utilities the power from the solar panels may also be used to power the vehicle’s utilities thereby reducing the drain on the vehicle’s battery when stationary. It is noted that the coupling between the panel and the vehicle may include a control system that the user can use to control the actuators attached to the frame as described above. These controls may include a display positioned proximate to the driver of the vehicle to provide feedback and information from the solar panels to the driver. This display may provide information regarding the position of the panel, or the amount of energy the panels are producing, it may also include an indication of the remaining charge in the vehicle's battery that may be used to monitor the recharging of the battery that can be used to monitor if the system is working. The control system may also include one or more sensors that can be used to provide feedback to the control that may be displayed to the user via the display. This sensor may include a power meter that can monitor the output of the solar panel, another such sensor may be used to monitor the output and / or current charge of the vehicle’s battery. The system may also include light sensors that are configured to monitor light sources around the vehicle allowing the system to track the position of the light source relative to the solar panels. This information may be used by the controller to determine the optimal position for the solar panel to maximize the solar panel’s output. The sensor may also include a visual sensor, such as a camera, or a motion sensor that is configured to monitor for obstacles near the vehicle that may obstruct or impact the frame and / or panel. As previously mentioned, the actuators may be configured to provide feedback regarding the frame and panel location, by sending this information to the controller to be analyzed. Similarly, the feedback from the various sensors described above may also be provided to the controller to be analyzed. This analysis may then be used to provide feedback to the user either audibly and / or visually via the mounted display within the vehicle. This may be used to send alerts to the user depending on the sensor feedback. For example, the system may warn the user when the vehicle panels are in a non-optimal position, or when the panel is about to impact an obstacle so that the user may respond accordingly by moving the panels and / or frame via the controls. In some cases, the control system would be coupled to a display mounted near the driver’s seat to allow the driver to receive alerts from the system, additionally, the display may comprise controls configured to receive user inputs either through buttons or a touch screen wherein the user can use the controls to actuate the systems actuators to change the position of the solar panel. It is noted that the driver may also use this display to actuate the system even when the vehicle is in motion. This may allow the panel to be actuated to avoid obstacles like tree branches that the vehicle drives under. It is noted that in some cases, the controls may include means to communicate to the display wirelessly, for example using wi-fi, Bluetooth, radio signal, or similar wireless communications. With such systems, the display can be more mobile allowing the user to move the display around the vehicle when the vehicle is stationary, and may allow the user to still control the system even when they are outside the vehicle. In some cases, rather than using a separate display device, the controller may communicate with the user’s mobile device, such as an application on the user’s smartphone or laptop, allowing the user to monitor and control the system using their mobile device. As previously noted, the controller is configured to receive and analyze data from the various sensors attached to the frame and / or vehicle. Using this data the controller may track the position of the sun or similar light sources that can power the solar panels. Using this tracking the controller may automatically actuate the frame to adjust the position of the solar panel so as to maximize the amount of energy being absorbed by the panels. This would include using one or more of the actuators to adjust the position of the panel and detecting if the output of the panels is increased if so, the controller may continue moving the panels in the chosen direction towards the source until the measured output reaches a maximum. At this point, the controller may start to move the panel in another direction if it further increases the output of the solar panels. However, it is noted that there would be limits to the direction and distance that the solar panels may be moved in this manner, either because the actuators cannot extend any further, or because the frame cannot move in the chosen direction due to the location of the joints in the frame, or because of an obstacle that the system detects. For example, the actuators may be configured to tilt the solar panels towards the left side of the vehicle but not to the right, in such cases the panels would not be able to maximize the light they receive from a source on the right-hand side of the vehicle unless the vehicle turns around. In these cases, the controller may send a signal to the display to indicate that the vehicle is in a non-optimal position. This alert may include an indicator displaying how the vehicle will need to be moved in order to achieve the predicted optimal position. These instructions may include moving the vehicle in a specific direction or adjusting the orientation of the vehicle. In some cases, the system may use cameras, parking sensors, or similar sensors to monitor the area surrounding the vehicle to monitor and track objects around the vehicle to ensure the vehicle can move into the position that is considered the optimal position. In other words, the system can check if any obstacles such as walls or other vehicles may prevent the vehicle from moving to the optimal position before providing the suggestion to move the vehicle. Note that in cases wherein the most optimal position is not obtainable, the system may determine the next best position to optimize the output of the solar panels either by moving the panels automatically or by sending a suggestion to move the vehicle to the user via the display. As suggested above it is preferable for the solar panels coupled to the vehicle to have a wide range of motion, both in terms of direction and distance, this way the panels can be moved into a wider range of positions allowing them to track light sources more easily. In some cases, the system may comprise different types of joints between the panel and the frame, for example, the system may comprise a universal joint at one corner of the frame with detachable joints at the adjacent corners. With the arrangement the panel would be able to pivot around one vertical and one horizontal side of the frame allowing for two degrees of motion while still ensuring that the panel is firmly fastened to the frame. In other cases, the solar panel may be mounted to a suitable plate, this plate may be coupled to the frame by one or more actuated arms. These arms may be configured with joints such that the arm can be articulated in multiple directions to allow the panels to have multiple degrees of freedom. The problem with this system is that the wires coupling the panels to the vehicle may be more exposed when the arms are extended, increasing the risk of the wires becoming damaged, or potentially becoming trapped within the arms, or between the plate and the frame. Therefore, it would be preferable to have a system wherein the wires from the panel are more secure, for example, the wires could be coupled to the edges of the frame to ensure there are no loose wires, though with the arms as described above there will still be some wires that are exposed. Another alternative would comprise a frame with multiple layers, wherein the base layer is coupled to the vehicle, and the top layer is coupled to the solar panel. Wherein there is a plurality of actuators connecting the layers, wherein each layer above the base layer can be actuated thus allowing a wider range of motion. Note that in some cases the top layer may use the joints described above to move in two directions then an intermediate layer may incorporate a universal joint in the opposite corner relative to the one on the top layer, this way the intermediate layer may pivot in the two directions that the top layer cannot thereby providing motion in all directions relative to the base layer. In this embodiment, the wires from the solar panel may be housed in the center of the frame where there are no parts that the wires may be caught on. Alternatively, the wires may be coupled to the sides of the frame, housed within channels in the frame walls, or the walls of the frame may be hollow allowing the wires to be passed through the walls of the frame to protect them from weather and any obstacles near the vehicle. The system may further comprise an additional battery or capacitors that may be used to store some of the power produced by the solar panel. In particular, the system may monitor the charge of the battery of the vehicle, wherein the controller will be configured to use the solar panels to charge the vehicle's battery until it reaches a predetermined threshold. Once the threshold is reached the controller may redirect the power from the panel to the auxiliary battery, or capacitors. This way the auxiliary feature may be charged to store any additional power that is generated. Note that these auxiliary power sources may be used to charge the vehicle battery or to power devices within the vehicle when the solar panels do not produce sufficient power, this way the vehicle has a means of storing excess power from the solar panels that may be used when there is little to no light to power the solar panel. Using this system the user is provided with a means of recharging the battery of an electric vehicle regardless of the vehicle’s location. This will allow the user to recharge the battery even when the vehicle is in a remote location or even when the vehicle is in motion. By using the controller as described above the system can adjust the solar panels to the best position possible with the frame actuators, the controller can then provide additional instructions to the user on how they can move the vehicle to further optimize the power output from the 5 solar panels. Detailed Description The present invention provides a system for recharging the battery of an electric vehicle. The claimed system is depicted in the following drawings: Figure 1 - a schematic drawing of the claimed system. Figure 2 - depicts an example frame used to mount the solar panel. Figure 3 - depicts an example frame from Fig.2 that further comprises an intermediate frame layer. Figure 4 - depicts an example frame that comprises an actuated arm. Figure 5 - depicts Figure 6 - depicts Figure 7 - depicts Figure 8 - depicts Figure 9 - depicts a simplified schematic of a vehicle comprising the claimed system. The claimed system depicted in the drawings configured the following features, please note that like features in the Figures are indicated with like reference numerals: 10 - Recharging system 20 - Frame 21 - Base layer 22 - Actuated layer 23 - Intermediate layer 30 - Solar panel 40 - controller 50 - Sensor 60 - Vehicle battery 70 - Display 80 - Actuator 82 - Actuated arm 90 - Universal joint, or bilateral joint being pivotable in two perpendicular planes 92 - Outline showing the solar panel pivoting in a second direction 100- Rotational plate 102 - Arrow showing the direction of rotation 104 - Outline showing the solar panel pivoting about the rotational actuator 110- Arrow showing the pivoting of the joint panels 112- Outline showing the pivoting of the joint panels into a second position 120- Arrows showing the unfolding of the joint panels 130-Vehicle 140 - Auxiliary power batteries The present invention provides an improved power system for an electric vehicle. More specifically the invention provides a system that can be adapted for electric vehicles that use solar panels to power the vehicle. The power from these solar panels will be used to recharge the battery of the electric vehicle. This can be particularly useful for mobile homes as the user is more likely to be driving to remote areas where a charging station may not be available. It is also noted that in such a mobile home, the power from the solar panels may be used to power the utilities inside the mobile home when the vehicle battery is sufficiently charged. Figure 1 shows a schematic of the claimed recharging system 10. The claim system comprises one or more solar panels 30 that are mounted to a suitable frame 20. Wherein the frame 20 is configured to be mounted to the outside of a vehicle such that the solar panels 30 will be exposed to sunlight. To ensure the amount of light shining on the panel is maximized it will be preferable for the frame 20 to be mounted to the roof of the vehicle. To further increase the amount of light that reaches the solar panel 30 it is preferable for the frame 20 to be actuated and allow the facing of the solar panels 30 to be adjusted toward the sun or other light source to help maximize the power output of the solar panels 30. To improve the effectiveness of the system 10, the claimed system will comprise a controller 40. This controller is configured to be a processor that will control the frame 20 and will also control the inputs and outputs of the various components of the system 10. This will allow the controller 40 to monitor the output of the solar panels 30 and to actuate the frame 20 when needed. This way the controller can automatically monitor the output of the solar panels 30 and adjust the position of the frame 20 so as to maximize the output of the solar panels and a given point in time. The system may further comprise one or more sensors 50 configured to give feedback to the controller 40. These sensors will help to refine the controller’s commands to the frame 20. With these sensors 50 the controller will need to perform less trial and error when actuating the frame 20 into the optimal position thereby allowing the panels 30 to be moved in the optimal position more quickly, thereby increasing the power produced by the panels 30. It is noted that different types of sensors can be used in the system 10. The most common option would be to incorporate light sensors, preferably there would be a plurality of such sensors located at different points on the frame 20 or the vehicle that the frame 20 is mounted to. The output of the light sensors can be used to track the position, intensity, and motion of any nearby light sources allowing the controller to track the light sources that can be used to power the panels 30. Additionally, if the light sensor provides feedback on the intensity of the detected light source the controller 40 may determine which light source would provide a larger power output allowing the controller to prioritize tracking the better light source for the maximum power output. The system may also comprise visual sensors such as cameras, and motion sensors, that can be used to track objects and obstacles around the vehicle which may block the solar panels 30. The feedback from these sensors may be used to allow the controller 40 to move the frame 20 such that any obstacles do not block the path between the solar panel 30 and a light source. The feedback may also be used to have the controller automatically move the solar panels to avoid such obstacles when the vehicle is moving, this helps to avoid impacts that may damage the solar panels 30. It is noted that in the absence of such sensors, the controller 40 may instead comprise an internal clock and suitable direction sensors such as accelerometers or GPS configured to feed back the position of the vehicle, specifically the vehicle’s location. Using this information the controller 40 would be configured to track the location of the sun relative to the location of the vehicle and may adjust the solar panel position accordingly. Thereby ensuring that the solar panels are facing towards the sun. The controller 40 would also comprise a connection to the battery 60 of the vehicle. This way the controller can supply the power from the solar panel output to the battery 60. The controller 40 may also comprise a means to detect the current charge of the vehicle’s battery 60, this way the controller 40 may automatically engage the recharging system 10 whenever the battery charge falls below a predetermined lower threshold. Further, the controller may disengage the charger system 10 when the battery charge reaches a predetermined upper threshold, this way the system can fold down the solar panels 30 to reduce the risk of them being damaged when the system is not needed to recharge the battery 60. However, when the system is used in a mobile home the controller may also have a connection to other electrical appliances and utilities within the vehicle. With this feedback, the controller may be configured to redirect the power from the panels 30, or at least a larger portion of the power to the utilities when the battery 60 reaches the upper threshold instead of disengaging the system. The controller would also be coupled to a display 70. The display is configured to provide feedback to the user of the vehicle and also is configured to provide controls that would allow the user to manually adjust the system 10. For example, the user may use the display to actuate the frame 20 or to adjust how much power from the panels 30 is sent to the battery 60 and the other systems in the vehicle. In cases wherein the controller 40 receives feedback from one or more sensors 50, the controller may be further configured to send the feedback to the display 70 so the data from the sensors 50 can be presented to the user. Further, when the system comprises a display 70, the controller 40 may be configured to predict an optimal position for the vehicle. This may include changing the orientation of the vehicle or moving the vehicle a small distance. It is also noted that when the system comprises sensors 50 the additional information from the sensors 50 may be used to refine the prediction for the optimal position for the vehicle. These refinements may include detecting the best light source available in the area, especially if the sun has already set, and detecting if there are any objects or obstacles that may block the solar panels or obstruct the path to the optimal position for the vehicle and if so, the controller would be configured to calculate the best position for the vehicle which is not obstructed. Once this optimal position is determined the controller 40 may communicate to the display 70 a series of instructions to be displayed. Wherein the display 70 is configured to alert the user that there is a more optimal position and on request display the instructions to the user on how to achieve the optimal position. Figures 2 to 4 display different examples of the frame 20 with different mechanisms for actuating the frame 20. Figure 2 presents the simplest embodiment of the frame 20. In this example, the frame comprises two layers, a base layer 21 that is coupled to the vehicle to anchor the system, the frame further comprises an actuated layer 22 that is coupled to the solar panel 30 and configured to move relative to the base layer 21. The different layers of the frame 20 are coupled together via hinges or joints that will allow the actuated layer 22 to pivot relative to the base layer 21. The motion of the frame around these joints allows the position of the solar panel 30 to be adjusted to increase the amount of light impacting the panel 30. Further, the frame 20 comprises one or more actuators 80 that are configured to move the actuated layer 22 when actuated. It is noted that there are a range of different actuators that would allow for different motions that can be mounted to the frame 20. However, a preferable option is to use a linear actuator. Though these actuators are only capable of motion in one direction they generally have a smaller volume and are lighter than other actuators. This way the system can reduce the amount of power needed to operate the actuators and also reduce the mass of the overall system thereby reducing the system’s impact on the vehicle’s performance. In some cases, the linear actuators may include Hall actuators or similar actuators that can provide feedback to the controller 40. In these cases, the actuators 80 provide signals to the controller that indicate current lengths of the actuator 80 allowing the controller 40 to determine the position of the frame 20. Thereby allowing the controller to more accurately move the solar panel 30 into the optimal position. It is also noted that by using the frame 20 as described above the movements of the actuating layer will be limited by the joints with the base layer, as the joints would affix certain points of the frame 20 together. Therefore, in the preferable embodiment of the system there would be a universal joint in one corner of the frame 20, along with detachable joints in the corners adjacent to the corner with the universal joint this refers to joints that can be controllably detached to allow the corner with the joint to move freely. This arrangement allows the frame 20 to pivot in at least two directions pivoting along either of the vertices of the corner containing the universal joint. Using this arrangement the system can have two degrees of motion allowing the panel 30 to be moved into a wider range of positions while still allowing the layers of the frame 20 to be firmly coupled together. Figure 3 depicts an alternative frame to the one depicted in Fig.2. In this example the frame 20 further comprises an intermediate layer 23 positioned between the base layer 21 and the top actuated layer 22. It is noted that this intermediate layer is also actuated. More specifically the intermediate layer 23 is configured to actuate in different directions as described above. However, the intermediate layer would preferably be configured to move in different directions compared to the top layer 22 thereby allowing a wider range of motion compared to the frame 20 in Fig.2. For example, the intermediate layer may utilize universal joints in opposing corners of the frame 20 with one coupled to the base layer 21 and the other to the top layer 22 thereby allowing the top layer to pivot in two directions as described above and allow the intermediate layer 23 to pivot in two different directions, allowing a greater range of motion. However, this system would require additional actuators that may make the system 10 too heavy. Further, it is noted that with the system being mounted to a vehicle the user would also be able to change the direction of the panel 30 by reorientating the vehicle itself therefore it may be preferable to use the two-layer frame of Fig.2. Figure 4 depicts an alternative embodiment for the frame 20, wherein the panel 30 is mounted to a plate, and said plate is mounted to the base layer 21 via one or more actuated arms 82. It is noted that an actuated arm may comprise a plurality of joints and actuators allowing a wide range of motion in almost any direction. This system would allow the widest range of motion allowing the controller 40 to change the facing of the solar panel 30 to any desired direction. However, the problem with such a system is that the wires coupling the panel 30 to the controller 40 may be more exposed, increasing the risk of the wires being damaged. Additionally, due to the various moving parts in the actuated arm 82 there would also be a risk of these wires becoming caught within the moving parts of the arm 82. Therefore, it may be preferable to use the actuated frame rather than an actuated arm. It is noted that in all of the embodiments, it would be preferable for the wires from the panels 30 to be coupled to the sides of the frame 20 so as to reduce the risk of wires becoming damaged. In some cases, the inner walls of the frame 20 may include channels configured to house the wires from the panel. In other embodiments, the walls of the frame 20 would be hollow allowing the wires to be passed through the frame 20. In either case, the amount of wire that is exposed is reduced thereby reducing the risk of the wires being damaged. Figures 5 to 8 depict further examples of how the claimed solar panels 30 can be actuated to increase the area over which the panels can receive light. Figure 5 depicts the embodiment of the solar panel that uses a universal joint 90 as described above. The universal joint 90 is used to couple a corner of the base frame 21 to the actuating frame 22. The universal joint 90 is configured to allow movement in multiple directions, in particular, a round universal joint 90 would allow 360-degree articulation. This enables optimisation of panel position versus the light source, i.e. the sun’s position. In the depicted example the frame 20 also, optionally, comprises a pair of detachable hinges coupled to the corners adjacent to the corner with the universal joint 90. This set of joints would allow the frame 20 to articulate in two different directions along each of the vertices coupled to the universal joint 90. This may be accompanied by what is termed a bilateral joint, i.e. being only pivotable in two perpendicular planes. This is advantageous as it provides greater stability at the pivoting corner of the frame 22. The bilateral joint may be used in place of the universal joint. In the depicted example we can see the actuating frame 22 having been pivoted along one of the vertices, with the outline 92 depicting the frame’s position when pivoted about the other of the vertices. With this arrangement, the frame 20 is capable of a wider range of motion when using a single actuator to produce two different directions of motion as shown in the depicted example by engaging different pairs of joints. This means the frame 20 will be able to move between a wider range of positions to follow the detected light sources compared to a frame with fixed hinges like the one shown in Figure 2. It is noted that with this configuration the controller would be configured to control the datable hinges allowing the controller to engage or disengage each of the detachable hinges to allow the frame to pivot in different directions as required to maximise the amount of light received by the panels 30. It is also noted that this system would be able to allow the solar panel 30 to face any direction when used in combination with a vehicle as the user can reorientate the vehicle to allow the panel 30 to pivot in the desired direction to follow the motion of the sun or other light sources. Figure 6 depicts a further embodiment of the claimed invention wherein the frame comprises two actuators a linear actuator configured 80 to pivot the actuating frame 22 relative to the base frame 21 as described above, and a second actuator configured to move the actuating frame in a rotational motion. In this case, the base frame 21 comprises a rotational plate 90, wherein the plate 90 is configured to rotate within the plane of the base frame 21, via an actuator such as a linear actuator coupled to the plate 90 and the base frame 21. This way the actuating frame 22 can have any facing without the need to reorientate the vehicle the system is coupled to. It is noted that in this arrangement the first actuator will be coupled between the rotating plate 90 and actuating frame 22 allowing the solar panel to pivot relative to the rotating plate, in some cases, there may be a hinge or joint between the edge of the rotating plate 90 and an edge of the actuating frame 22 allowing the two to move independently of the base frame 21. In other cases, the edges of the base frame 21 may comprise detachable joints, with a corresponding joint on an edge of the actuating frame 22, thereby allowing the actuating frame 22 to be supported by the base frame 21 as it pivots as shown in the earlier examples, with the controller being configured to disengage the joints to allow the actuating frame 22 to rotate and reengage the joints to allow the solar panel 30 to be tilted when the panel 30 faces the right direction to receive the optimal amount of light. Further in this arrangement, the controller would be configured to independently control each of the actuators to achieve the desired solar panel 30 position. Figure 7 depicts another example of the claimed solar panels wherein the base frame 22 and actuating frame 21 are coupled via one or more rails allowing the actuating frame to slide over the base frame this allows the system to mount a second solar panel onto the surface of the base frame 21 thereby doubling the area over which energy can be collected when the actuating frame 22 is fully extended using the rails. This can help increase the amount of energy that is absorbed by the solar panel over a given time frame. Additionally, the frame 20 will comprise one or more actuators configured to tilt the frame 20 relative to the vehicle, an example of this is depicted by the arrow 110 and outline 112. This tilting will allow the larger panel to track the motion of a light source as described above. It is noted that the base of this frame may be coupled to a rotating plate to allow the facing of the panel to be changed by rotating the frame 20. It is noted that the controller would be configured to adjust the size of the solar panel by pushing or pulling the actuating frame along the rail. The controller would also be configured to control the tiling and rotation of the frame to maximise the amount of light being absorbed. Additionally, the controller of this system may be configured to monitor the area around the frame 20. In particular, the controller would receive data from sensors, such as cameras, that would be configured to detect any objects or obstacles that would obstruct the motion of the frame 20 or would impact the unfolded frame. In response to this data the controller may limit the motion of the frame and / or retract the actuating frame 21 to avoid impacts with the detected obstacles. Figure 8 depicts a further example of an unfolding solar panel. In this case, the frame 20 comprises a base frame 21 with a first solar panel coupled to the top surface of the frame 21. There are one or more actuating frames 22 that are coupled to one side of the base frame 21 using suitable hinges and joints. Wherein the actuating frame 21 is configured to pivot about the hinges so that they unfold uncovering the solar panel 30 on the base frame 21 when the actuators coupled to the actuating frame 22 is activated, as indicated by the arrows 120. It is noted that the base of the actuating frame 22 may also comprise a solar panel 30. Therefore, when the actuating frame is folded open this secondary panel 30 will be exposed to the detected light source. This will allow the system to increase the effective area over which solar energy can be absorbed by using multiple panels simultaneously. In this system, the controller would be configured to control the folding and unfolding of each of the actuating frames 22. The controller may also be configured to partially rotate the actuating frame 22 such that the actuating frame 22 is at an angle relative to the base frame 21 if this tilted facing would increase the amount of energy being produced by the solar panels 30 based on the position of the detected light source. This embodiment may also include a rotating plate coupling the base frame 21 to the vehicle, thereby allowing the frame to rotate relative to the vehicle. This rotation may be used to optimise the position of the secondary solar panels 30 to increase the system’s energy output. Figure 9 depicts a schematic showing an example of a vehicle 130 that utilizes the claimed recharging system 10. Note that in the depicted examples the frame 20 and panels 30 are coupled to the roof of the vehicle 130 to maximize the amount of light the panel is exposed to. Additionally, the display 70 is mounted to a point proximate to the driver’s seat such that the driver can control the system 10 even when the vehicle 130 is moving. It is noted that in some cases the communications between the controller 40 and the display 70 may be performed wirelessly using Wi-fi, Bluetooth, or other wireless communications. In these systems, the display 70 may be portable allowing the user to mount it to different points within the vehicle. In some cases, the wireless display may comprise an application on a mobile device of the user, such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, allowing them to control the system 10 and receive alerts from the controller 40 remotely. It is also noted that the depicted examples show auxiliary batteries 140 in addition to the vehicle battery 60. These auxiliary batteries 140 are configured to act as alternative power sources for the recharging system for example when the output of the solar panels 30 fall below a predetermined threshold. Using these batteries 140 the system 10 has a means of storing excess power from the solar panels 30 to be used during times where there is insufficient light to power the solar panels 30. These auxiliary batteries 110 can be used to recharge the vehicle battery 60 or to power utilities within the vehicle. In this system, the controller 40 would be configured to direct the power from the auxiliary batteries to either the vehicle battery 60 or the other systems of the vehicle when necessary for example when the output of the solar panels is too low. Further, the controller 40 would control how much of the power from the solar panels 30 is directed to the vehicle battery, auxiliary batteries 140, and the other vehicle systems. It is noted that the control would direct the power from the solar panels such that the charge of each battery 60,140 remains above a predetermined threshold. If vehicle battery 60 is fully charged the controller may prioritize the auxiliary batteries 140, and if all the batteries are charged the controller may prioritize other appliances and systems in the vehicle 130.

Claims

1. A solar power system configured to be used on a vehicle, the system comprising: a frame;The frame comprises a base layer configured to be mounted to the roof of the vehicle and an actuated layer configured to move relative to the base layer of the frame;one or more solar panels coupled to the actuated layer of the frame;one or more actuators mounted to the frame configured to actuate the actuated layer of the frame;a controller configured to send control signals to the actuators; anda display mounted near the driving seat in the vehicle coupled to the controller that provides the user with means for controlling the one or more actuators;wherein the solar panels are coupled to a battery of the vehicle such that the power produced by the one or more solar panels can be used to recharge the vehicle’s battery.

2. The system of claim 1 wherein the system further comprises one or more sensors that provide feedback to the controller; andWherein the controller is configured to provide feedback from the sensor readings via the display and to automatically actuate the actuators based on the sensor data.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the sensors comprise light sensors that are configured to detect and track the location of light sources relative to the vehicle;wherein the controller is configured to actuate the frame to maximize the amount of light shining on the solar panels; andwherein the controller is configured to display directions on the display detailing how the vehicle may be moved to further increase the amount of light shining on the solar panels.

4. The system of claims 2 and 3 wherein the sensors comprise one or more visual sensors, such as a camera or parking sensors, configured to detect obstacles around the vehicle that may obstruct light sources or impact the solar panel; andwherein the controller is configured to actuate the frame to move the solar panel such that they avoid the detected obstacles; andwherein the controller is configured to send alerts to the user, via the display, when the detected obstacle obstructs the solar panel or is at risk of impacting the panel, wherein the alert comprises instructions on how the user may move the vehicle to avoid the obstacle.

5. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the actuator comprises Hall actuators, linear actuators that can provide feedback to the controller; andWherein the controller is configured to use the feedback from the actuators to track the position of the solar panels.

6. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the system further comprises an auxiliary power source such as a capacitor or auxiliary battery, wherein the solar panels are configured to charge the auxiliary power source; andWherein the auxiliary power source is configured to be used as a backup power supply for the vehicle and used to recharge the vehicle battery when the output of the solar panels falls below a predetermined threshold7. The system of claim 6, wherein the sensors comprise power sensors configured to monitor the charge of the vehicle battery and the output of the solar panel;Wherein the controller is configured to use the solar panel to recharge the battery when the vehicle’s battery charge falls below a predetermined threshold, and when the charge is above the predetermined threshold the controller directs the solar panel output to recharge the auxiliary power source; andWherein the controller is configured to use the auxiliary power source to charge the vehicle battery when the output of the solar panels falls below a predetermined threshold, during this mode any power outputted by the solar panel may be used to recharge the auxiliary power source.

8. the system of claims 2 to 8, wherein the controller is configured to use feedback from the sensors to determine the optimal position for the vehicle to provide the maximum solar panel output; andWherein the controller is configured to present instructions on how to move the vehicle to the optimal position via the display.

9. The system of any preceding claim wherein the solar panels are coupled to the frame via a universal joint and a pair of detachable hinges.10 the system of claim 9, wherein the solar panel is coupled to a top actuated layer of the frame, and the frame further comprises an intermediate actuated layer, wherein the top layer is coupled to the intermediate layer via a second universal joint and a pair of detachable hinges; wherein the second universal joint is coupled to the opposite side of the frame relative to the first universal joint.

11. The system of claims 1 to 8, wherein the solar panels are mounted to a plate, wherein the plate is mounted to the frame by one or more actuator arms.

12. The system of any preceding claim wherein the wires from the solar panels are housed within the walls of the frame.

13. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to communicate with the display via wireless communication; and wherein the display is configured to be portable.

14. The system of claim 13 wherein the portable display comprises an application on the user’s mobile device; wherein the mobile device comprises a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.

15. The system of any preceding claim wherein the actuating frame, and / or intermediate layer is mounted to the base frame via a rail allowing the actuating frames to be expanded radially relative to the base frame.

16. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the top surface of the base frame includes an additional solar panel.

17. the system of claim 16, wherein the actuating frame is configured to fold outwards relative to the base frame via a hinge coupling the edge of the actuating frame from the base frame; and wherein the bottom surface of the actuating frame comprises an additional solar panel.

18. The system of any preceding claim wherein the frame is coupled to a rotating plate that is configured to rotate at least a layer of the frame relative to the surface the frame is mounted to.

19. A vehicle comprising the system of claims 1 to 18, wherein the frame is mounted to the top of the vehicle, and the display is mounted proximate to the driver’s seat of the vehicle such that the driver may control the system even when the vehicle is in motion.

20. The vehicle of claim 19, wherein the vehicle comprises a mobile home; and wherein the controller is configured to use at least part of the power from the solar panels to power utilities in the mobile home.21

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