Deployable Solar Wings for Vehicle Roof Space Limits
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicles, particularly recreational vehicles, face challenges in efficiently utilizing available roof space for solar panels due to obstructions and insufficient power generation capacity.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle solar charging system with expandable solar wings and solar stacks that can be deployed and retracted, allowing flexible placement and increased surface area for solar panel installation, coupled with a rechargeable battery and control system for efficient energy conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If solar panels are installed on the vehicle roof, then electrical power can be generated, but the available roof space is limited by obstructions and insufficient for adequate power generation
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panels transition from a two-dimensional flat roof installation to a three-dimensional deployable structure that extends vertically and horizontally beyond the roof perimeter. The wings and stacks create additional surface area in multiple dimensions, overcoming the limited two-dimensional roof space constraint.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar panel system transitions from a static fixed installation to a dynamic deployable structure. The wings and stacks can be extended and retracted based on operational needs, allowing the system to adapt its surface area and power generation capacity dynamically rather than being constrained by fixed roof space.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed solar panels are installed on the roof, then installation is simple, but the system cannot adapt to different operational requirements or maximize space utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel system is divided into separate modular components: fixed roof-mounted panels and deployable wing/stack modules. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while contributing to the overall system, enabling adaptability without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployable solar structures serve multiple functions: they provide additional power generation surface area, can be adjusted based on operational needs, and can be retracted when not in use. This multi-functionality increases adaptability while the modular design keeps the added complexity manageable.
3Power
If deployable solar wings and stacks are used, then surface area for power generation is increased, but the system complexity and potential reliability issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates protective measures in advance: the deployable structures can be retracted into a protected position when not in use or during adverse conditions, and the modular design allows individual components to be isolated or replaced without affecting the entire system, cushioning against potential reliability issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The system can change its operational parameters dynamically - extending or retracting the deployable structures based on power generation needs, weather conditions, or operational requirements. This parameter flexibility allows the system to optimize performance while mitigating reliability risks by retreating to a protected state when necessary.
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
Enhances power generation capacity by optimizing roof space utilization and reducing strain on the battery through strategic deployment and retraction of solar panels, ensuring consistent electrical power supply.
Implementation Method 1
An array of solar wings can be mounted to a top or roof of the vehicle and located between a perimeter edge of the roof and rooftop accessories
Data Source
AI summary
A solar system for a vehicle has an array of solar wings each with a series of interconnected solar panels movable between a retracted configuration in a stack on the vehicle and a deployed configuration extending from the vehicle. Each wing can have a motor and a controller to sequentially deploy and retract each solar wing in the array of solar wings. A drive can be coupled between the motor and the solar panels of a solar wing.