Energy harvesting textile device

Abstract

An energy harvesting textile device comprises a supporting textile layer and an optical layer supported by the supporting textile layer. The optical layer includes a plurality of solar cell segments spaced apart and extending across the optical layer, the segments being electrically interconnected by a wiring network comprising flexible and / or stretchable conductive elements. The configuration provides mechanical flexibility and / or stretchability compatible with the supporting textile layer while maintaining an effective surface area for electromagnetic energy capture and electricity generation.

Description

[0001] ENERGY HARVESTING TEXTILE DEVICE

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to energy harvesting systems, and more particularly to a textile-based energy harvesting device configured to generate electrical energy from one or more of electromagnetic, thermal, and mechanical energy sources. The energy harvesting textile device may be further configured to store the generated electrical energy for powering electronic devices, including autonomously operating sensing, communication, and actuation systems.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Operation of mobile electrical devices for various applications — including communication, sensing, wearable technologies, mobility systems, robotics, healthcare, and life support — relies on the availability of electric energy. These devices are often used in diverse environments, including at home, outdoors, indoors, in the air, on water, or in space. When such devices are not connected to an electrical grid or must operate independently, they typically require portable power sources such as disposable batteries, rechargeable batteries with charging equipment, or fuel-powered generators.

[0006] Prior art examples of mobile energy systems include wearable pouches that incorporate a battery pack and a solar panel, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11 ,876,241 , and garments or surfaces coated with photovoltaic panels, as described in U.S. Patent No. 10,010,902.

[0007] However, these batteries and related equipment tend to be heavy, inefficient, and expensive. Therefore, there is a need for lightweight and efficient energy harvesting and generation systems capable of generating electricity on the go or while stored, thereby reducing the weight and volume of batteries or fuel sources required for transport and use.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] According to a first aspect of the disclosure, there is provided an energy harvesting textile device comprising: a supporting textile layer; and an optical layer supported by the supporting textile layer, the optical layer comprising a plurality of solar cell segments spaced apart and extending across the optical layer and electrically interconnected by a wiring network comprising flexible and / or stretchable conductive elements, thereby producing a solar cell assembly with mechanical flexibility and / or stretchability compatible with the supporting textile layer while maintaining an effective surface area for electromagnetic energy capture and electricity generation.

[0010] In some embodiments, the plurality of solar cell segments each may have at least two solar cells positioned respectively on a front side and an opposite back side of each solar cell segment.

[0011] In some embodiments, the optical layer may further comprise a coating and a plurality of photonic particles distributed in the coating and configured to direct incident light received by the optical layer toward the plurality of solar cell segments.

[0012] In some embodiments, the plurality of photonic particles may be further configured to convert a wavelength of the incident light to another wavelength that is more absorbable by the plurality of solar cell segments compared to the wavelength of the incident light.

[0013] In some embodiments, the optical layer coating may comprise at least one dome-shaped surface curvature operable to focus the electromagnetic energy onto one or more of the plurality of solar cell segments.

[0014] In some embodiments, the optical layer may comprise an optically reflective layer disposed between one or more of the plurality of solar cell segments and the supporting layer, the reflective layer operable to reflect incident light received by the optical layer toward the solar cell at the back side of the one or more solar cell segments.

[0015] In some embodiments, the optical layer may comprise a textile having a matrix of stretchable and flexible yarns.

[0016] In some embodiments, the conductive elements may be woven, knitted, or printed into the supporting textile layer.

[0017] In some embodiments, the energy harvesting textile device may further comprise an energy harvesting unit electrically coupled to the wiring network, the energy harvesting unit comprising at least one of: a mechanical-electric generator operable to convert mechanical deformation of the energy harvesting textile device into electrical energy; and a thermo-electric generator operable to convert thermal energy from a thermal gradient across the energy harvesting textile device into electrical energy.

[0018] In some embodiments, the mechanical-electric generator may comprise a triboelectric generator or a piezoelectric generator.

[0019] In some embodiments, the thermoelectric generator may comprise one or more thermoelectric films or fibers disposed in the supporting textile layer.

[0020] In some embodiments, the energy harvesting textile device may further comprise an energy storage device electrically coupled to the plurality of solar cell segments.

[0021] In some embodiments, the energy storage device may be integrated into the supporting textile layer.

[0022] In some embodiments, the energy storage device may comprise a supercapacitor, a rechargeable battery, or a combination thereof.

[0023] In some embodiments, the energy harvesting textile device may further comprise a roller attached to a part of the supporting textile layer or optical layer, and a motor coupled to the roller and powered by the energy storage device to roll or unroll the supporting textile layer and optical layer into or from the roller.

[0024] In some embodiments, the energy harvesting textile device may further comprise a controller communicative with sensors that monitor output characteristics of the plurality of solar cell segments and communicative with the wiring network to control operation of one or more of the conductive elements, the controller including a memory having encoded thereon computer readable instructions that when executed dynamically control the electrical interconnection of the one or more conductive elements to bypass or isolate one or more of the solar cell segments based on measurements from the sensors.

[0025] According to a second aspect of the disclosure, there is provided an energy harvesting textile structure comprising: a supporting textile layer comprising a plurality of supporting textile yarns; an optical layer supported by the supporting textile layer and comprising a plurality of optical layer yarns, a plurality of solar cell segments spaced apart and distributed at or within the plurality of optical layer yarns; and a wiring network electrically comprising a plurality of interconnect yarns having conductive elements that are electrically interconnected with the plurality of solar cell segments; wherein the plurality of supporting textile yarns, the plurality of optical layer yarns, and the plurality of interconnect yarns are interwoven with each other and produce a solar cell assembly with mechanical flexibility and / or stretchability compatible with the supporting textile while maintaining an effective surface area for electromagnetic energy capture and electricity generation.

[0026] This summary does not necessarily describe the entire scope of all aspects. Other aspects, features and advantages will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following description of specific embodiments.

[0027] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] FIG. 1 is a schematic of an energy harvesting textile device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0029] FIGS. 2A-C are schematic views of an energy harvesting textile device (FIG. 2A) and its components in fiber form (FIGS. 2B and 2C) according to another embodiment of the invention. The components include woven fabric from optical, mechanical and insulation yarns, and knitted fabric from optical, mechanical and insulation yarns.

[0030] FIGS. 3A-C are schematic views of a rollable energy harvesting textile device (FIG. 3A) according to another embodiment of the invention, with views of different components of the device, namely a foldable and stretchable optical layer device in FIG. 3B and different arrangements of solar cell dots in FIG. 30.

[0031] FIG. 4. is a block diagram of different components of the energy harvesting textile device for delivering autonomous function and energy generation.

[0032] FIG. 5. is a schematic of the energy harvesting textile device embodied as or integrated into an athletic shirt, tights and sneakers used by a runner.

[0033] FIGS. 6A-0 are schematics of an energy harvesting textile device embodied as or integrated into various objects including: a helmet or hat (FIG. 6A), a smart watch (FIG. 6B), a backpack (FIG. 6C), a bag (FIG. 6D), a multi-layered jacket (FIG. 6E), a tent (FIG. 6F), a window shade or awning (FIG. 6H), part of virtual or augmented reality headset and smart glove (FIG. 6I), a flying kite or other flying devices (FIG. 6J), an umbrella or shade (FIG. 6K), a sailboat, yacht or other water vehicles (FIG. 6L), components of a car (FIG. 6M) including retractable roofing material and tires, space suit (FIG. 6N) and a military uniform (FIG. 60).

[0034] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0035] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an energy harvesting textile or substrate device (referred to herein as a “natural energy autonomous textile” or NEAT device) that is configured to harvest energy from one or more electromagnetic, mechanical, and / or thermal energy sources (collectively referred to herein as “natural energy”) to generate electricity. The NEAT device comprises a supporting textile layer and may be configured to be lightweight, flexible, and durable. In some embodiments, the NEAT device is further configured to be stretchable, washable, water-resistant, and weather-proof, and may be suitable for operation in harsh environmental conditions, including cold or hot climates.

[0036] In some embodiments, the NEAT device is configured to convert multiple modalities of energy present in the environment into electrical energy for powering various electrical devices or enabling autonomous operation. The energy modalities may include electromagnetic energy from sunlight or indoor / outdoor lighting, thermal energy, and / or mechanical energy generated by the user of the NEAT device or other sources, such as body heat from the user, movement of the user’s body parts, or mechanical motion resulting from carried or interacted objects.

[0037] In some embodiments, the NEAT device is further configured to store the harvested electrical energy in one or more energy storage devices, including but not limited to supercapacitors and rechargeable batteries. The stored energy may also be used to generate clean fuel, to directly power an electrical appliance, or to enable autonomous operation of a system without requiring a connection to an external power source. Additionally, in certain implementations, the NEAT device may be configured to supply the generated power to a local or national electrical grid.

[0038] Due to the flexible, stretchable, conformable, and lightweight nature of the supporting textile, the NEAT device can be implemented in a wide range of applications. For example, the NEAT device may be used as part of, or integrated into, various forms of clothing or apparel, uniforms, helmets, backpacks, bags, purses, smart electronic devices, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) goggles or controllers, smart clothing, wearable devices, straps, building coverings, curtains, shades, tarps, awnings, tents, sails, or incorporated onto curved or edged surfaces of objects, vehicles, or products. These include, but are not limited to, cars, airplanes, drones, balloons, boats, spacecraft, or satellites.

[0039] Many of these applications include electronic components that require electrical power for performing functions such as sensing, actuation, movement, data communication, display, or propulsion on land, in air, at sea, or in space. Conventionally, such power is supplied by disposable or rechargeable batteries, engines, generators, or fuel cells, which tend to be heavy and require costly storage and resupply. The NEAT device may be advantageously used to generate and store electrical energy locally, thereby reducing the weight, cost, and logistical burden associated with powering these applications, while enabling autonomous operation.

[0040] The NEAT device may also be configured to provide high durability and environmental resistance, while retaining flexibility and stretchability suitable for a variety of form factors. In addition, the NEAT device can be configured to offer a controllable visual and thermal appearance, including features such as camouflage patterns, customized colours, matte or glossy finishes, or branding text or graphics, which may be desirable in both civilian and military contexts. The NEAT device may also be formed into rollable, expandable, retractable, or stretchable textiles or substrates, enabling energy generation in a range of deployable or dynamic configurations such as rollable awnings, retractable tents, openable tarps, umbrellas, or expandable shelters for use on land, in air, at sea, or in space. The NEAT device may also be manufactured in variable or modular sizes, from small-scale patches to large-area textiles, to deliver a required output voltage and current suitable for a given application.

[0041] In some embodiments, the NEAT device comprises an optical layer supported by a supporting textile layer and having an assembly of electrically interconnected solar cell segments or “dots”, thereby creating a flexible and durable solar energy capturing textile with a desirable form factor that enables efficient light capture and focus onto the solar cells. A solar cell dot, as used herein, refers to a discrete, small-area segment of one or more solar cells — typically circular, rectangular, or polygonal in shape — that is individually encapsulated or embedded within the optical layer and electrically connected to other such solar cell dots by flexible and / or stretchable electrical interconnects. Each solar cell dot may be formed from a thin-film photovoltaic material and is spaced apart by the flexible and / or stretchable electrical interconnects to form a solar cell assembly that has a mechanical flexibility and stretchability that is compatible with the supporting textile while maintaining effective surface area for a specified solar energy capture and electricity generation.

[0042] The solar cell dot may have a lateral dimension (e.g., diameter or edge length) selected according to actual needs for solar energy capture and flexibility I stretchability. For example, the lateral dimension may range from about 0.1 mm to about 50 mm, depending on design constraints such as desired optical transparency, flexibility, spacing between adjacent dots, and target power output. In some implementations, smaller dots (e.g., 0.1-5 mm) may be used for greater conformability and mechanical durability of the NEAT device, while larger dots (e.g., 10-50 mm) may be employed to increase power generation per unit area with a corresponding decrease in overall flexibility of the NEAT device.

[0043] The solar cell dots may be fabricated using technologies such as flexible organic, amorphous silicon, organic photovoltaic (OPV), perovskite, copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), cadmium telluride (CdTe), gallium arsenide (GaAs), quantum dot (QD), tandem, or other suitable thin-film materials. In some implementations, the solar cell dots are designed for double-sided light exposure, meaning they are capable of harvesting light incident from both the front and back surfaces of the textile, thereby enhancing energy conversion under variable light conditions or when reflected or ambient light is present.

[0044] The solar cell dots may be arranged in patterns and connected in localized series and parallel configurations to achieve a desired voltage and current output, which can be tailored for downstream use or optimized for storing electrical energy in associated energy storage devices. Interconnection between solar cell dots may be achieved using fine, stretchable electrical wiring or conductive threads that are woven, knitted, or printed into the optical layer and / or supporting textile layer. These interconnections preserve the overall flexibility, conformability, and lightweight characteristics of the NEAT device, allowing it to operate effectively under mechanical deformation such as bending, stretching, or folding.

[0045] In some embodiments, power conditioning circuits and rectifiers may be embedded at the level of individual solar cell dots or at the level of series-connected lines of solar cells. Voltage boosting circuits and maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms may be implemented locally to optimize energy conversion efficiency. The electrical output from the NEAT device may be used for wired or wireless charging, may be stored in on-board or removable rechargeable batteries, or may be used directly to power integrated sensors, actuators, or communication devices, as described elsewhere in this disclosure.

[0046] In addition to harvesting solar energy, the NEAT device may also be embedded with a mechanical-electric generator and / or a thermos-electric generator. The mechanicalelectric generator may generate voltage and current in response to mechanical movements or applied forces on the NEAT device, while the thermoelectric generator may generate electricity from a thermal gradient across the textile, such as the temperature difference between a user’s body and the surrounding environment.

[0047] FIG. 1 illustrates a NEAT device 100 according to an embodiment described herein. The NEAT device 100 has one side positioned adjacent to a user body 101 (e.g., a human or an animal) or to a surface or object, and another side oriented to face a light source such as the sun 120. While the depicted embodiment shows the NEAT device 100 arranged adjacent to the body 101 , it is also possible for the NEAT device 100 to be configured as a freestanding structure in space and not necessarily in contact with a user, surface, or object.

[0048] In this embodiment, the NEAT device 100 comprises a supporting textile layer 102 coated with an optical layer 103, which includes an assembly of spaced and electrically interconnected solar cell dots 104. The solar cell dots 104 may be thin elements electrically interconnected by a wiring network using flexible and / or stretchable conductive elements 106 that are woven, embedded, or printed into the supporting textile layer 102 and / or the optical layer 103, forming electrical connections for the solar cell dots 104 across the extent of the NEAT device 100. The supporting textile layer 102 may be formed from a lightweight, durable, flexible, and stretchable textile material, and may include a specific visual print or pattern 107. Additionally, the supporting textile layer 102 may be embedded with multimodal energy harvesting devices 108, including but not limited to mechanical and / or thermoelectric generators.

[0049] The optical layer 103 may be implemented as a thin, composite, stretchable, and flexible coating, film, or breathable textile layer embedded with photonic particles 110. The optical layer 103 may be formed from a transparent elastomeric matrix such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). These photonic particles 110 may be configured to reflect incoming sunlight 121 in a direction toward the solar cell dots 104, or to absorb the incoming sunlight 121 and re-emit photon energy at wavelengths that can be more readily absorbed by the solar cell dots 104. Both the reflected and re-emitted light rays 122 can be internally reflected within the structure of the optical layer 103, thereby forming a lightguiding structure that focuses light onto the solar cell dots 104.

[0050] The photonic particles 110 may reflect or re-emit light in the direction opposite to that of the incoming sunlight 121 , thereby improving light transmission through the optical layer

[0051] 103 and enhancing optical interaction with the solar cell dots 104, especially if both sides of the solar cell dots 104 are configured to be able to convert the optical energy into electrical energy. The optical layer 103 may further include reflecting particles 111 positioned at the interface between the optical layer 103 and the supporting textile layer 102. These reflecting particles 111 can enhance internal reflection and further guide light toward the solar cell dots 104. Additionally, the outer surface of the optical layer 103 may include surface particles and layers 112 that serve to achieve one or more of the following: reducing surface reflection, improving internal light guiding within the film, increasing absorption efficiency, and selectively filtering emissions in certain wavelength ranges such as infrared.

[0052] An anti-reflection coating 113 may be applied to the optical layer 103 to enhance light capture efficiency and optionally provide a desired colouration or visual pattern on the textile. A reflective layer 114 may be provided behind one or more of the solar cell dots

[0053] 104 to reflect light back into each dot and increase light interaction with the backside of each dot, thereby improving light absorption performance. Furthermore, the outer surface of the optical layer 103 may include specifically designed surface curvatures 115 that are dome-shaped to act as microlenses to help focus incident light toward the solar cell dots 104 from a range of angles and intensities.

[0054] The NEAT device 100, in this embodiment, captures incoming sunlight 121 and converts electromagnetic energy to electrical energy using the solar cell dots 104. Additionally, the NEAT device 100 may regulate the intensity and spectral characteristics of reflected light 125 and transmitted light 124, thereby influencing the visual and infrared signature of the textile as well as thermal comfort and heat retention properties for the user body 101.

[0055] The solar cell dots 104 may be formed from thin silicon cells and, in some embodiments, may be designed for double-sided light exposure, enabling absorption from both the front and rear surfaces. As described above, suitable materials for the solar cell dots may include flexible organic, amorphous silicon, OPV, perovskite, CIGS, CdTe, GaAs, QD, tandem, or other solar technologies, particularly those that support double-sided operation. The spectral characteristics of the photonic particles 110 and the solar cell dots 104 can be tuned for optimized performance across specific regions of the solar spectrum.

[0056] The supporting textile layer 102, the optical layer 103, and the flexible interconnects 106 may be collectively designed to accommodate planar deformation, such as stretching, by allowing strain to be absorbed in regions not occupied by the solar cell dots 104. This arrangement may minimize mechanical stress on the solar cell dots while preserving flexibility, stretchability, and foldability, and may facilitate application of the NEAT device 100 to curved or moving surfaces. Additionally, the solar cell dots 104 may be protected from vertical mechanical pressure or impact forces by being positioned near a neutral mechanical plane within the textile and by incorporating mechanically robust materials, such as the reflective layer 114 or other protective layers within the optical layer 103, above and below the solar cell dots. This configuration may help mitigate the risk of cell breakage, fracture, or delamination.

[0057] The NEAT device 100 may exhibit light-capturing performance across a range of incident angles and lighting conditions, including low-intensity and oblique-angle illumination, due to the focusing and guiding behavior of the optical layer 103. In particular, light entering from various angles may be concentrated toward the front and rear sides of the solar cell dots 104 or be internally redirected within the optical layer 103 to enhance light intensity and improve light-to-electricity conversion from both directions.

[0058] In this embodiment, the multimodal energy harvesting devices 108 may include a mechanical generator, such as a triboelectric or piezoelectric device. As illustrated, the mechanical generator may include two electrodes 131 and 132 and a pair of electropositive and electronegative films 133 and 134, which generate electricity in response to mechanical pressure, compression, or deformation. Suitable materials for the electropositive and electronegative films may include, but are not limited to, polyurethane, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyvinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene (PVDF-TrFE), nylon, silk, polystyrene, cellulose-based or natural-based fibers and nanofibrils, carbon fiber, polyurethane (Pll), or other polymer foams or fibers, as well as ionic liquids or material composites optimized for triboelectric or piezoelectric performance.

[0059] It should be appreciated that, in addition to or instead of the illustrated configuration, other embodiments of mechanical energy harvesting may also be employed. For example, the multimodal energy harvesting devices may include stretchable or bendable piezoelectric fibers integrated into the textile, mechanically resonant structures that convert periodic motion into electricity, or mechanical-to-electrical transducers based on contact electrification, electrostatic induction, or flexoelectric effects. The specific implementation may depend on the type of mechanical input expected, such as bending, stretching, vibration, or compression from body movement, external contact, or interaction with the surrounding environment.

[0060] The multimodal energy harvesting devices 108 may also include, or alternatively comprise, a thermoelectric generator configured to produce electrical energy based on a temperature gradient across the textile. For example, the thermoelectric generator may exploit a temperature difference between the user’s body and the ambient environment. The thermoelectric components may be formed using n-type and p-type silicon elements, bismuth telluride, bismuth selenide, lead telluride, or oxide-based materials fabricated into films or fibers suitable for integration into a textile structure.

[0061] It should be appreciated that the above examples are non-limiting, and other thermoelectric configurations may be employed. For example, thermoelectric harvesting may be implemented using flexible composite materials, organic thermoelectric polymers, or nanostructured thermoelectric films selected to improve compatibility with textile fabrication techniques or to enhance thermal sensitivity across various operating conditions. The specific configuration may vary depending on the expected temperature differentials, form factor requirements, or intended application.

[0062] In another embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2C, a NEAT device 200 is shown configured in textile form by weaving, knitting, or braiding its constituent components, including a supporting textile layer 202 and an optical layer 203. The optical layer 203 is configured to capture incoming sunlight 221 and guide light rays through internal reflection mechanisms, thereby focusing the light onto the front and / or back surfaces of solar cell dots 204 that are embedded within selected sections of the textile.

[0063] The NEAT device 200 includes flexible and stretchable interconnect wiring 205 and 206, which are knitted, woven, braided, or printed onto the textile to electrically connect the solar cell dots 204, multimodal energy harvesting devices 208, and energy storage devices 240. These interconnections may be made in series and / or parallel as required by the electrical architecture. The supporting textile layer 202 can comprise lightweight, durable, flexible, and stretchable yarns, optionally carrying a specific visual print or pattern 207. The multimodal energy harvesting devices 208 may be embedded within the textile, including but not limited to mechanical or thermoelectric generators.

[0064] The optical layer 203 may take the form of a thin composite textile structure including stretchable and flexible breathable yarns or a breathable textile matrix embedded with photonic particles 210. These photonic particles 210 may be configured to reflect incoming sunlight 221 in redirection paths 222, 223 or absorb the sunlight and emit photon energy at a wavelength better suited for absorption by the solar cell dots 204. The reflected or re-emitted rays 222, 223 can be internally guided within the structure of the optical layer 203, thereby enabling a light waveguide effect for focusing illumination onto the solar cell dots 204.

[0065] Photonic particles 210 may be distributed such that light is redirected in the opposite direction of the incident sunlight 221 , promoting improved light transmission within the textile structure, especially if both sides of the solar cell dots 204 are configured to be able to convert the optical energy into electrical energy. Additional reflecting particles 211 may be incorporated at interfaces within the optical layer 203 to enhance internal reflection and facilitate light focusing onto the solar cell dots 204. Surface particles or layers 212 may be disposed on the exterior of the optical layer 203 to reduce reflection losses, enhance internal redirection of light, and adjust thermal or spectral properties, such as reducing infrared emission. The textile may also include an anti-reflection coating 213 to improve light capture or introduce a specific colour pattern.

[0066] A reflective layer 214 may be disposed beneath the solar cell dots 204 to reflect light back toward the active surface of the solar cells, thereby enhancing interaction with the backside of the solar cells if the backside can convert optical energy into electrical energy. Additionally, the surface of the optical layer 203 may include structured surface curvatures 215 that act as lenses to focus incident light onto the solar cell dots 204, allowing light capture over a range of angles and intensities. As depicted, the NEAT device 200 captures incoming sunlight 221 and converts it to electricity using solar cell dots 204, while also controlling the reflected light 225 and transmitted light 224. This enables control over visual and infrared signatures and modulates heating or cooling effects experienced by the wearer or object 201.

[0067] The solar cell dots 204 may be fabricated using thin silicon solar cells with double-sided light exposure capabilities to utilize both frontside and backside illumination, by providing at least one solar cell on one side of the solar cell dot 204 and at least one other solar cell on an opposite side of the solar cell dot 204. Other suitable technologies for forming the solar cell dots 204 include flexible organic, amorphous silicon, OPV, perovskite, CIGS, CdTe, GaAs, QD, tandem, or other solar technologies, particularly those supporting dualsided exposure. The combination of photonic particles 210 and solar cell dots 204 may be selected to optimize energy conversion within specific portions of the light spectrum.

[0068] The supporting textile layer 202, the optical layer 203, and the interconnects 205 and 206 can be constructed to allow stretch or deformation by enabling planar extension in regions not covered by solar cell dots 204. This can reduce mechanical stress on the solar cell dots while allowing the NEAT device 200 to be flexible, stretchable, foldable, and adaptable to curved or dynamic surfaces. The components may be assembled through a combination of knitting, weaving, braiding, or printing to yield a breathable, washable, stretchable, and water-resistant textile structure.

[0069] To protect the solar cell dots 204 from damage caused by vertical pressure or repeated mechanical impact, they may be positioned near a neutral mechanical plane of the textile and reinforced by mechanically robust materials such as the reflective layer 214 or structural portions of the optical layer 203. This configuration helps mitigate breakage, delamination, or disconnection of the cells during frequent use or physical deformation.

[0070] In this embodiment, the multimodal energy harvesting devices 208 may include a mechanical generator, such as a triboelectric or piezoelectric unit comprising two electrodes 230 and 231 and two electropositive and electronegative films 232 and 233 separated by a spacer material 234. These structures generate electricity when subjected to pressure or movement. Additionally or alternatively, the multimodal energy harvesting devices 208 may comprise thermoelectric generators that produce electricity in response to temperature differentials, such as between the wearer’s body and the external environment.

[0071] The NEAT device 200 further includes energy storage yarns 240 and 241 , which may be configured as supercapacitors or rechargeable batteries in yarn form. These energy storage components may be integrated directly into the textile for on-board energy buffering or continuous power supply.

[0072] As illustrated in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the supporting textile layer 202 and the optical layer

[0073] 203 may be textiles woven or knitted in various patterns and densities. These textiles can be combined with interconnect yarns 206 and other specialized yarns for energy harvesting 208 or storage 240 to form a functional fabric that retains desirable mechanical and aesthetic characteristics while providing energy conversion and management capabilities.

[0074] FIGS. 3A-3C show another embodiment described herein, in which a NEAT device 300 is constructed in textile form by weaving, knitting, printing, laminating, or braiding the various components, including a supporting textile layer 301 and an optical layer 303. The optical layer 303 is configured to capture incoming electromagnetic energy 321 , including sunlight, indoor light, or other light sources, and guide the light 322 through internal reflection to focus it on the front and / or back surfaces of a plurality of solar cell dots 304 embedded at different locations in the textile.

[0075] The incoming light 321 may be reflected (e.g., 323) or transmitted through the NEAT device 300, and the resulting reflection and transmission can be tuned by adjusting the material and structural properties of the NEAT device 300 to achieve specific visual appearances, coloration, insulation, or comfort characteristics. The NEAT device may include visual or non-visible prints 302 designed to carry branding, camouflage patterns, or other markings visible in infrared, ultraviolet, or visible light ranges. These prints may serve functional purposes such as anti-counterfeiting or passive concealment.

[0076] The optical layer 303 may incorporate finishing seams 335 along its edges, which may be designed to reflect light to increase optical performance and reduce loss. The NEAT device 300 may include embedded flexible and stretchable interconnect wiring 305, which may be knitted, woven, braided, or printed onto the textile. These interconnects facilitate electrical connectivity among the solar cell dots 304 and other energy harvesting components, and may lead to local rectifying circuits or diodes at one or more of the solar cell dots 304. These may further connect to a line power conditioning circuit 306, a local control circuit and storage 307, a removable energy storage component 308, and a wireless charging circuit 309.

[0077] The rectifying circuits, diodes, and line power conditioning circuit 306 may be configured to deliver a maximum available power based on incident light intensity and angle, and to compensate for shading effects on the solar cell dots 304. This may be achieved using suitable control techniques such as MPPT algorithms. The energy generated by the NEAT device 300 can be stored locally using the on-board storage 307, allowing for energy availability even when the incident light 321 is insufficient. In addition, the removable energy storage 308 or various external devices, such as phones, tablets, computers, appliances, or tools, can be connected to the NEAT device 300 for charging, either via wired interfaces such as USB, USB-C, micro-USB, or via wireless charging through the coil and circuitry 309. The solar cell dots 304 may be arranged in series, for example along a line 310, to achieve an output voltage sufficient to charge batteries, capacitors, or connected devices. The physical size, arrangement, and spacing of the solar cell dots 304 may be arranged to ensure relatively uniform exposure to the incident light 321 , even under textile movement and bending. Rectifying diodes or circuits located at each solar cell dot 304 may further help isolate the performance of each cell and improve overall efficiency under partial shading or localized damage.

[0078] The NEAT device 300 may include multiple series-connected lines (e.g., 310 and 311), which may be connected in parallel to increase the current output. These lines can be connected directly or through the power conditioning circuit 306 to regulate voltage across the array and support MPPT-based optimization.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 3A, the solar cell dots 304 may be provided in different shapes and densities, including circular dots 312, hexagonal dots 313, rectangular arrays 314, denser rectangular arrays 315, and high-density rectangular arrays 316. These configurations allow flexibility in tailoring output characteristics and physical properties such as flexibility, mechanical durability, and optical uniformity under various conditions.

[0080] The local control circuit and storage 307 may be configured to power or activate other textile-integrated components, such as sensors 330, lighting or actuation devices 331 , and electric motors 332. These components may enable fully autonomous operation of the NEAT device 300, supporting functionality beyond energy collection. In some embodiments, the local control circuit and storage 307 may comprise computer readable memory having stored thereon program code with instructions executable by a processor to monitor and separately manage output characteristics of different solar cell dots 304 or groups of solar cell dots 304 by controlling operation of the electrical interconnects coupled to the solar cell dots 304. For example, the local control circuit and storage 307 can be communicative with the sensors 330 to receive signals relating to one or more of output current, voltage, power level, signal waveform, temperature, and impedance that are indicative of detected shading, damage, or performance degradation in one or more solar cell dots 3041 groups of dots 304, and the program code can include instructions for the local control circuit and storage 307 to dynamically control electrical interconnection of the multiple solar cell dots 304 to optimize the efficiency or the overall power output of the NEAT device 300, by rerouting one or more interconnections to bypass or isolate one or more solar cell dots 3041 group of dots 304 that are underperforming e.g. due to shading or damage. The sensors 330 may be selected from a range of options, including but not limited to temperature, pressure, flow, GPS, altitude, wind speed, vacuum, radiation (e.g., ultraviolet), chemical composition, heart rate, motion, stretch, and other physiological or environmental metrics relevant to the textile's intended use.

[0081] The lighting or actuating devices 331 may include light-emitting diodes (LEDs), microLEDs, organic LEDs, or similar devices for visible light emission, graphical display, visibility enhancement, fashion integration, or interactive effects. LEDs configured to emit in the infrared or other spectra may be used for purposes such as heating, therapy, disinfection, or sensing enhancement. These devices may be positioned to couple with the optical layer 303 for improved light distribution.

[0082] Other actuation or feedback functionalities may also be implemented, such as mechanical movement, localized heating or cooling, sound or ultrasound emission, haptic feedback, or localized chemical reactions. The electric motor 332, under control of the local circuit 307, may be employed to autonomously open or close the NEAT device 300, for example, by rolling or unrolling the textile according to environmental sensing or user instruction. In certain implementations, the NEAT device 300 may comprise a roller tube that is attached to a part of the supporting textile layer or optical layer and operable to roll the NEAT device 300 into a compact rolled form (such as the rolled form shown in FIG. 3A) to facilitate storage or transport. The rolling or unrolling operation may be autonomously controlled and powered using energy stored in the energy storage device, for instance when favourable lighting conditions are detected or when energy harvesting is no longer needed. In some embodiments, the roller tube is coupled to a motor 332 that can be powered by electrical energy captured by the NEAT device 300.

[0083] To support this reconfigurable operation, the NEAT device 300 may include structural support 334 to provide mechanical rigidity along selected directions. This may enhance the device’s ability to be rolled or folded reliably without compromising the integrity of embedded components. The supporting textile 301 may be formed from lightweight, durable, flexible, and stretchable yarns and may incorporate visible print or pattern features 302. The textile may also include embedded multimodal energy harvesting devices, such as mechanical or thermal harvesters, in addition to the solar energy harvesting elements. The optical layer 303 may take the form of a composite layer, including stretchable or breathable yarns or textiles, embedded with photonic particles designed to manipulate the incoming light 321. These particles may reflect or absorb light and re-emit photons at wavelengths better suited for absorption by the solar cell dots 304.

[0084] The optical structure may guide the light 322 by internal reflection toward the embedded solar cell dots 304, operating in a waveguide-like manner. Photonic particles may be configured to direct light back toward the incoming direction to enhance transmission through the optical layer 303. Reflective particles positioned at internal interfaces may help concentrate light toward the solar cell dots 304, while additional surface treatments (e.g., outer surface layers or anti-reflective coatings) may improve optical absorption and suppress undesired emissions, such as infrared radiation.

[0085] Reflective backing layers beneath the solar cell dots 304 may be incorporated to further increase light absorption by reflecting unabsorbed photons back into the active area. The surface of the optical layer 303 may also include dome-shaped surface curvatures to provide lensing effects, enhancing light focusing onto the solar cell dots 304 across a range of incident angles and intensities.

[0086] The NEAT device 300 may be optimized not only for electricity generation but also for control of reflected light 323 and transmitted light 324, thereby enabling tailored optical and thermal profiles. These may influence visual appearance, infrared signature, or thermal comfort of the textile. The solar cell dots 304 can be fabricated in the same way as described in respect of FIGS. 1 and 2A.

[0087] As illustrated in the foldable embodiment 340 shown in FIG. 3B, the NEAT device 300 may include designated folding or rolling sections that allow it to transition from a compact, portable configuration to an expanded state. Each section may include lines of series-connected solar dots 304, with the folded or rolled sections designed to maintain energy generation while folded I rolled or deployed I unrolled. This folding or rolling concept can be extended to two- or three-dimensional formats, depending on application needs. Folding / rolling and unfolding / unrolling may be driven by actuators 331 and motors 332 in conjunction with structural supports 334, as described in respect of FIG. 3A.

[0088] FIG. 30 illustrates three alternative arrangements of solar cell dots 304. In embodiment 341, the solar dots are placed with minimal spacing to maximize energy output at the expense of reduced flexibility. In embodiment 342, wider spacing may be used to improve tactile comfort, flexibility, or aesthetic appearance, even if power density is reduced. This embodiment may also be stretchable, transforming from a compact form (e.g., 341) to a more expanded form (e.g., 342), by mounting the solar dots on elastic substrates or films. Embodiment 343 shows an example where the placement and spacing of solar dots form a recognizable shape, character, or branding (in this example, letter “A”), contrasting visually with the supporting textile 301 and its associated prints or patterns.

[0089] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the architecture and functional interconnections of a NEAT device 400, including various energy harvesting lines, power conditioning modules, a power management unit, energy storage components, and functional outputs such as charging interfaces, sensing, and actuation modules. The device includes a solar energy generating micro line 1 (401), which may comprise solar cell dots connected in series via stretchable interconnects, and further integrated with diodes and rectifying circuits. This micro line is electrically coupled to a line 1 power conditioning circuit 411, which may implement an MPPT algorithm and be configured to boost or regulate the output voltage to deliver an optimized electrical output depending on the operating conditions of line 401.

[0090] This arrangement may be repeated for additional solar energy generating lines, such as solar energy generating micro line 2 (402) connected to line 2 power conditioning circuit 412, and solar energy generating micro line n (403) connected to line n power conditioning circuit 413.

[0091] In addition to solar energy, the NEAT device 400 may incorporate other modalities of energy generation. For example, mechanical energy may be harvested via a mechanical energy generating micro line j (404), which may produce electrical output in response to mechanical deformation or strain. The mechanical energy generating line 404 is connected to a corresponding line j power conditioning circuit 414. It should be noted that the electrical output characteristics of mechanical energy sources (e.g., voltage and current levels) may differ significantly from those of solar energy sources, and thus the associated power conditioning design may be adjusted accordingly.

[0092] Similarly, thermal energy harvesting may be implemented via a thermal energy generating micro line k (405), which is connected to line k power conditioning circuit 415. The thermal energy generator may operate based on temperature gradients across the textile, such as between the body and ambient environment.

[0093] The power management circuit 420 and the on-board storage 421 may further be connected to various output and auxiliary components. For example, wired charging connectors 424 may include USB, USB-C, micro-USB, or other standardized interfaces suitable for connection to external devices, such as mobile phones, gaming consoles, tablets, computers, appliances, or tools.

[0094] A removable storage unit 422 may also be connected to the power management circuit 420. This removable storage may take the form of a battery or another type of energy storage component that can be physically detached from the NEAT device 400 and used with other devices. The power management circuit 420 may also be coupled to a wireless charging module 423, which enables charging of compatible electronic devices, appliances, or tools via inductive or resonant wireless power transfer.

[0095] Further, the NEAT device 400 may include an interface for grid connection 425, allowing it to either supply electricity to a direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC) power grid, or to draw power for connected applications. This feature enables integration with broader energy infrastructure, such as buildings or microgrid environments.

[0096] To support intelligent operation and communication, the power management circuit 420 may also be connected to a wireless control processing and communication module 430. This module may handle control logic, user-defined settings, or connectivity with external networks or systems.

[0097] The NEAT device 400 may also incorporate sensing 431 and actuation 432 capabilities, powered by the generated energy. The sensing devices 431 may include environmental or physiological sensors, such as those for temperature, pressure, location, chemical detection, or motion. The actuation devices 432 may enable mechanical or functional responses, such as motorized rolling or unrolling of the textile, folding operations, or generating heating, lighting, visual effects, or haptic feedback.

[0098] In summary, the NEAT device 400 may integrate multiple types of energy harvesting modules, power conditioning circuits, energy storage components, and energy output interfaces, along with wireless communication and control features, to support self- powered operation and autonomous functionality in a textile-based format.

[0099] FIG. 5 illustrates an example application making use of the NEAT device as described herein, in which various textile regions of the NEAT device are integrated into wearable garments such as a shirt, tights, and shoes. Different visual patterns represent the embedded NEAT device components across various parts of the body. In this embodiment, the NEAT components are configured to autonomously harvest energy from incident sunlight and mechanical body movement during physical activity. The generated energy can be stored in onboard or textile-integrated energy storage units.

[0100] In addition to energy harvesting, the NEAT device is also capable of autonomously monitoring health-related parameters of the wearer, as well as conditions relevant to physical performance, such as pace, motion, or environmental inputs. The sensed data may be transmitted wirelessly to the user or external devices for real-time or post-activity feedback.

[0101] Furthermore, the NEAT device may be configured to perform active functions based on detected conditions. For example, during physical exertion such as running, the device may respond to increased body heat or perspiration by powering localized cooling elements or actuating textile structures to enhance breathability. These functionalities are driven by the energy harvested and managed locally within the textile structure.

[0102] It is noted that the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 serves as one example of how NEAT textile technologies can be implemented in wearable applications. The illustrated use case does not limit the scope of potential implementations, which may include other garments, accessories, or use cases beyond athletic apparel. FIGS. 6A-6O illustrate various form factors and objects into which the NEAT device can be integrated. The NEAT device may be included as part of sewn-in clothing or as modular items attachable to garments or products using Velcro tape, buttons, ropes, glue, or other fastening means.

[0103] The illustrated form factors, which are not intended to limit the potential applications, include helmets (FIG. 6A), such as those used in military, police, aviation, astronautics, biking, scootering, skiing, or other sports. The energy generated by the NEAT device in these applications may be used to power smart goggles, headphones, or other electronic devices located near or affixed to the helmet.

[0104] Another embodiment includes smart watch bands (FIG. 6B) that incorporate the NEAT device to generate electricity or to support autonomous sensing and actuation functions. The NEAT device may also serve as a cover for phones or tablets, enabling energy generation for powering these devices.

[0105] Further embodiments include backpacks, bags, or purses (FIGS. 6C-6D), in which the NEAT device is applied to external surfaces to allow the charging of electronic devices located within pockets or compartments, and to facilitate autonomous operation of such devices. Another example is a jacket (FIG. 6E), in which the NEAT device is integrated or attached. The jacket may be a winter, military, police, skiing, hiking, or other type of jacket, and may use the generated energy to power electronic devices, communication equipment, sensors, or actuators in an autonomous manner.

[0106] Another embodiment involves tents or portions of tents or housing structures (FIG. 6F), including the roof, walls, doors, or window coverings. The NEAT device may be implemented as modular items attachable to exterior surfaces or integrated into the structure or design of temporary or permanent shelters. These textile structures may be foldable, rollable, or compactable into lightweight forms for ease of transport and deployment.

[0107] Additional embodiments include rollable curtains (FIG. 6G), shades, or awnings (FIG. 6H) for interior or exterior coverage of windows, doors, ceilings, or other architectural elements. These elements may be either transparent or opaque. The ability to roll into compact forms and unroll to cover desired areas — either manually or automatically — can provide shading, insulation, and comfort, while also enabling energy generation from sunlight or artificial light sources. The design may include see-through patterns or branded imagery based on the layout of the NEAT device and the positioning of solar cell dots. These structures may offer thermal insulation, and their surfaces may be constructed with rigid or non-flexible components coated with the NEAT device.

[0108] The NEAT device may also be applied to smart gloves, augmented / virtual / extended / mixed reality goggles, or controller devices (FIG. 61), in which textile or rigid components are coated with sections of the NEAT device. Electricity generated from environmental light in these embodiments may extend battery life or reduce battery size, enhancing user comfort.

[0109] In another example (FIG. 6J), the NEAT device may be integrated as the outer surface of aerial, land-based, marine, or space drones or satellites. It may be applied to curved surfaces of the drone while preserving mechanical integrity and durability. The NEAT device may generate electricity when exposed to light sources such as sunlight, supporting extended operation time or reducing reliance on batteries or fuel. It may also be used to charge the drone while in storage or at remote locations. The polymer and resin compositions for such coatings may differ from those used in garments and can be optimized for transparency, curvature conformity, and infrared or other spectral emission control to reduce visual or thermal detectability.

[0110] An additional embodiment is shown as an umbrella (FIG. 6K) constructed from or incorporating NEAT device modules, which permits reliable opening and closing, flexibility, and energy generation from sunlight. This concept may be extended to other foldable or deployable structures, such as pool or beach umbrellas, protective canopies, or deployable solar arrays for space satellites.

[0111] Another embodiment is a retractable, rollable, or foldable sail textile (FIG. 6L) made from the NEAT device. The sail can harness wind for propulsion and sunlight for energy generation, powering onboard devices or electric engines. While illustrated with a sailboat, similar applications may include motorboats, yachts, ferries, tankers, cruise ships, or cargo vessels. The use of NEAT -based sails may reduce fuel or battery requirements.

[0112] In another embodiment (FIG. 6M), a vehicle may incorporate the NEAT device into the roof, retractable roof, interior or exterior window coverings, or curved structural components. The vehicle may be battery-powered, and energy from the NEAT device may be used during motion or while parked to extend driving range or reduce charging frequency and battery weight. The vehicle may also be combustion- powered, hybrid, or hydrogen-fuel-cell-based, in which case the NEAT device may be used to power onboard electronics or even contribute to fuel generation.

[0113] FIG. 6N illustrates a space suit for astronauts or space travelers incorporating NEAT device modules. These modules may generate electricity to operate sensors, physiological monitors, robotic subsystems, or life support devices, thereby extending use time or reducing battery weight. The NEAT device may also be incorporated into lightweight, retractable space habitats, robotic structures, or satellite components for light-based energy generation and autonomous operation.

[0114] FIG. 60 presents further embodiments, including uniforms and components thereof such as vests, bulletproof vests, helmets, backpacks, gloves, equipment straps, boots, and undergarments used by soldiers, expeditionary personnel, police, or emergency responders. The NEAT device may generate electricity during movement or rest to reduce the battery load carried for operating electronic equipment. Such devices may include radios, data terminals, night vision goggles, augmented reality goggles, thermal cameras, surveillance systems, headphones, weapons, or other gear. The NEAT device may be implemented in a camouflaged form with reduced visual or infrared detectability and may provide additional benefits such as durability, comfort, and thermal insulation. It may also be configured as a rollable blanket or tarp that can be stored in a backpack and deployed as a covering or concealment aid while generating electricity.

[0115] Interpretation of Terms

[0116] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims:

[0117] • “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”;

[0118] • “linked”, “connected”, “coupled”, or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof; “herein”, “above”, “below”, and words of similar import, when used to describe this specification, shall refer to this specification as a whole, and not to any particular portions of this specification;

[0119] • “or”, in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list;

[0120] • the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” also include the meaning of any appropriate plural forms.

[0121] Words that indicate directions such as “vertical”, “transverse”, “horizontal”, “upward”, “downward”, “forward”, “backward”, “inward”, “outward”, “vertical”, “transverse”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “back”, “top”, “bottom”, “below”, “above”, “under”, and the like, used in this description and any accompanying claims (where present), depend on the specific orientation of the apparatus described and illustrated. The subject matter described herein may assume various alternative orientations. Accordingly, these directional terms are not strictly defined and should not be interpreted narrowly.

[0122] Where a component (e.g. a substrate, assembly, device, manifold, etc.) is referred to above, unless otherwise indicated, reference to that component (including a reference to a “means”) should be interpreted as including as equivalents of that component any component which performs the function of the described component (i.e., that is functionally equivalent), including components which are not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the illustrated exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0123] Specific examples of systems, methods, and apparatus have been described herein for purposes of illustration. These are only examples. The technology provided herein can be applied to systems other than the example systems described above. Many alterations, modifications, additions, omissions, and permutations are possible within the practice of this disclosure. This disclosure includes variations on described embodiments that would be apparent to the skilled addressee, including variations obtained by: replacing features, elements and / or acts with equivalent features, elements and / or acts; mixing and matching of features, elements and / or acts from different embodiments; combining features, elements and / or acts from embodiments as described herein with features, elements and / or acts of other technology; and / or omitting combining features, elements and / or acts from described embodiments.

[0124] While particular elements, embodiments and applications of the present disclosure have been shown and described, it will be understood, that the disclosure is not limited thereto since modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, particularly in light of the foregoing teachings. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims and claims hereafter introduced are interpreted to include all such modifications, permutations, additions, omissions, and sub-combinations as may reasonably be inferred. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An energy harvesting textile device comprising: a supporting textile layer; and an optical layer supported by the supporting textile layer, the optical layer comprising a plurality of solar cell segments spaced apart and extending across the optical layer and electrically interconnected by a wiring network comprising flexible and / or stretchable conductive elements, thereby producing a solar cell assembly with mechanical flexibility and / or stretchability compatible with the supporting textile layer while maintaining an effective surface area for electromagnetic energy capture and electricity generation.

2. The energy harvesting textile device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of solar cell segments each have at least two solar cells positioned respectively on a front side and an opposite back side of each solar cell segment.

3. The energy harvesting textile device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the optical layer further comprises a coating and a plurality of photonic particles distributed in the coating and configured to direct incident light received by the optical layer toward the plurality of solar cell segments.

4. The energy harvesting textile device of claim 3, wherein the plurality of photonic particles are further configured to convert a wavelength of the incident light to another wavelength that is more absorbable by the plurality of solar cell segments compared to the wavelength of the incident light.

5. The energy harvesting textile device of claim 3, wherein the optical layer coating comprises at least one dome-shaped surface curvature operable to focus the electromagnetic energy onto one or more of the plurality of solar cell segments.

6. The energy harvesting textile device of claim 2, wherein the optical layer comprises an optically reflective layer disposed between one or more of the plurality of solar cell segments and the supporting layer, the reflective layer operable to reflect incident light received by the optical layer toward the solar cell at the back side of the one or more solar cell segments.

7. The energy harvesting textile device of any one of clams 1 to 6, wherein the optical layer comprises a textile having a matrix of stretchable and flexible yarns.

8. The energy harvesting textile device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the conductive elements are woven, knitted, or printed into the supporting textile layer.

9. The energy harvesting textile device of any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising an energy harvesting unit electrically coupled to the wiring network, the energy harvesting unit comprising at least one of: a mechanical-electric generator operable to convert mechanical deformation of the energy harvesting textile device into electrical energy; and a thermo-electric generator operable to convert thermal energy from a thermal gradient across the energy harvesting textile device into electrical energy.

10. The energy harvesting textile device of claim 9, wherein the mechanical-electric generator comprises a triboelectric generator or a piezoelectric generator.

11. The energy harvesting textile device of claim 9, wherein the thermoelectric generator comprises one or more thermoelectric films or fibers disposed in the supporting textile layer.

12. The energy harvesting textile device of any one of claims 1 to 11 , further comprising an energy storage device electrically coupled to the plurality of solar cell segments.

13. The energy harvesting textile device of claim 12, wherein the energy storage device is integrated into the supporting textile layer.

14. The energy harvesting textile device of claim 12, wherein the energy storage device comprises a supercapacitor, a rechargeable battery, or a combination thereof.

15. The energy harvesting textile device of any one of claims 12 to 14, further comprising a roller attached to a part of the supporting textile layer or optical layer, and a motor coupled to the roller and powered by the energy storage device to roll or unroll the supporting textile layer and optical layer into or from the roller.

16. The energy harvesting textile device of any one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising a controller communicative with sensors that monitor output characteristics of the plurality of solar cell segments and communicative with the wiring network to control operation of one or more of the conductive elements, the controller including a memory having encoded thereon computer readable instructions that when executed dynamically control the electrical interconnection of the one or more conductive elements to bypass or isolate one or more of the solar cell segments based on measurements from the sensors.

17. An energy harvesting textile structure comprising: a supporting textile layer comprising a plurality of supporting textile yarns; an optical layer supported by the supporting textile layer and comprising a plurality of optical layer yarns, a plurality of solar cell segments spaced apart and distributed at or within the plurality of optical layer yarns; and a wiring network electrically comprising a plurality of interconnect yarns having conductive elements that are electrically interconnected with the plurality of solar cell segments; wherein the plurality of supporting textile yarns, the plurality of optical layer yarns, and the plurality of interconnect yarns are interwoven with each other and produce a solar cell assembly with mechanical flexibility and / or stretchability compatible with the supporting textile while maintaining an effective surface area for electromagnetic energy capture and electricity generation.

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