Annular Solar Cell Assembly for Shadow-Resistant Electronic Housings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable electronic devices face low power generation efficiency due to shadows cast by hands on solar panels, particularly when the panels are disposed along the side surfaces of displays, as seen in configurations like the electronic timepiece in JP 2003-270366 A.
Innovation Solution
A cylindrical case design with a display exposed at the upper end, an annular light-transmitting parting member, an annular solar cell under the parting member, and an annular elastic member fixing the solar cell's outer edge, allowing the solar panel to be positioned under a light-transmitting dial cover, separated from the dial cover to prevent shadow interference and improve power generation efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the solar panel is disposed along the side surface of the space between the display and crystal, then the power generation efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel is positioned in the radial direction between the display and crystal, utilizing the thickness dimension of the dial cover rather than the lateral space. This dimensional repositioning allows the solar panel to be integrated into the existing structure without increasing overall device complexity, while still capturing light effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The dial cover serves multiple functions: it acts as a structural component of the case, provides a mounting surface for the solar panel, and maintains the aesthetic appearance of the device. By making the dial cover multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate components that would increase device complexity.
2Loss of energy
If the solar panel is disposed along the side surface of the space between the display and crystal, then the power generation efficiency is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel is positioned and fixed to the dial cover before the final assembly of the case components. This preliminary positioning allows for easier installation and alignment during manufacturing, as the solar panel is already secured to a stable component rather than requiring complex alignment during final assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the assembly into distinct components: the dial cover with the solar panel pre-installed, the display assembly, and the case body. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and prepared separately, then assembled together, simplifying the overall manufacturing process.
3Ease of manufacture
If adhesive is used to fix the solar panel, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to power loss and aesthetic deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces adhesive bonding with a mechanical fixing system using a fixing member that clips or secures the solar panel to the dial cover. This mechanical connection eliminates the reliability issues associated with adhesive degradation, such as power loss due to poor electrical contact and aesthetic deterioration from visible adhesive.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Stable and efficient solar power generation is achieved without adhesive use, reducing misalignment issues and maintaining a clean external appearance while allowing for diverse design options and continuous operation.
Implementation Method 1
an annular solar cell disposed under the parting member
Implementation Method 2
an annular elastic member that fixes an outer edge of the annular solar cell
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a cylindrical case, a display, an annular light-transmitting parting member, an annular solar cell and an annular elastic member. At least the upper end of the case is open. The display is disposed in the case and exposed to a side where the upper end is located. The parting member is annular along the inner circumferential surface of the case. The annular solar cell is disposed under the parting member. The elastic member fixes the outer edge of the annular solar cell.