Motorized Awning Photovoltaic Panel Positioning for Solar Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar protection installations with independent power supplies face inefficiencies when mounted under eaves or balconies, as photovoltaic panels are sheltered from direct sunlight, reducing energy generation and are exposed to harsh weather, leading to performance degradation.
Innovation Solution
A motorized solar protection system that automatically repositions the photovoltaic panel to maximize exposure to solar radiation by determining energy reserve levels and sunlight conditions, deploying the awning to a recharging position when necessary, using a combination of hardware and software to control the actuator and motor, and incorporating sensors for optimal energy harvesting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the photovoltaic panel is integrated into the box or load bar, then the installation is compact and easy to install, but the panel is exposed to harsh weather (rain, hail, snow) causing damage and performance degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic panel is extracted from the protected box/load bar location and relocated to the fabric surface, where it is shielded by the fabric structure itself during retraction, while still being able to receive sunlight when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The photovoltaic panel is integrated into the fabric structure itself, nesting the energy-generating component within the protective envelope of the awning fabric, which serves dual purposes: structural coverage and weather protection for the panel
2Adaptability or versatility
If the photovoltaic panel is mounted on the box or load bar, then the system is integrated, but the panel is sheltered from direct solar radiation when the awning is retracted, greatly reducing energy generation
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic panel's position is made dynamic relative to the fabric - it is integrated into the fabric structure allowing it to automatically transition between shaded (retracted) and sun-exposed (deployed) positions, optimizing both protection and energy generation based on operational state
Solution Approach 2:
The fabric structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides solar protection when deployed, weather protection when retracted, and acts as the mounting substrate for the photovoltaic panel, eliminating the need for separate mounting structures
3Use of energy by moving object
If the photovoltaic panel is deported to other surfaces like wall or eaves, then the panel receives direct sunlight, but the installation loses its qualities as an integrated system
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains integration by making the photovoltaic panel move with the fabric through the motorized actuation mechanism, dynamically adjusting its position to maintain both system cohesion and optimal sun exposure during operational cycles
4Use of energy by moving object
If the awning is deployed to expose the photovoltaic panel to sunlight for recharging, then energy generation increases, but the fabric is exposed to wind and rain causing potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs preliminary assessment of energy reserve levels and sunlight conditions before deploying the awning for recharging, and implements monitoring during deployment to stop when charging threshold is reached, minimizing unnecessary exposure to weather elements
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from energy reserve level sensors and sunlight detection to control the deployment cycle, automatically retracting when charging objectives are met or when adverse weather conditions are detected, balancing energy generation with fabric protection
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
Ensures continuous energy charging even when installed under shaded conditions, enhances energy generation efficiency, and protects the system from weather damage while minimizing user disruption.
Implementation Method 1
a photovoltaic cell panel fixed or movable under the effect of the actuator, intended to supply energy to recharge a reserve electrical energy supplying the actuator
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for operating home automation equipment for motor-driven solar protection, including: an actuator for extending and folding up a sheet, including a motor and a motor control module; and a photovoltaic cell panel that is stationary or movable by the actuator and intended to provide the power for recharging an electrical power supply that supplies power to the actuator, the operating method including the following automatic steps: predetermining a criterion for recharging the power supply; if the criterion is met, moving the photovoltaic cell panel or the sheet to a recharging position in which the panel is exposed, directly or through reflection, to the solar rays in order to recharge the power supply.