Detachable Solar Jacket Panels With Reconfigurable Power Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable solar technologies face challenges in user customization, comfort, maintenance complexity, substrate compatibility, seamless textile integration, power management, and aesthetics, limiting their practicality and consumer acceptance.
Innovation Solution
A solar jacket with detachable, flexible solar panels, configurable wiring, and integrated battery system that allows series/parallel connections, detachable attachment points, and USB Type C connectivity for efficient energy harvesting and storage, ensuring adaptability and compatibility with various devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If fixed panel configurations are used in wearable solar technology, then structural simplicity is maintained, but user customization and comfort are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The solar power system is divided into multiple detachable solar panels that can be separately attached or removed from the garment. Each panel operates independently and can be positioned according to user preference, enabling customization while maintaining individual panel simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar panels are designed with detachable attachment mechanisms that allow dynamic reconfiguration. Users can attach panels to different locations on the garment, adjust their positions, or remove them entirely based on comfort and customization needs, transforming a static system into a dynamic one.
2Strength
If flexible solar cell materials are used, then comfort and conformability are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible solar system is segmented into separate rigid panels with flexible attachment interfaces. The solar cells themselves remain in conventional rigid structures, while flexibility is achieved through detachable mounting systems that allow the panels to conform to the garment contours without requiring flexible cell fabrication.
3Power
If series connection is used for solar panels, then voltage output is increased, but compatibility with various battery voltages is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system allows dynamic reconfiguration between series and parallel connections. Users can switch between connection modes to match different battery voltage requirements, transforming a fixed-voltage system into an adaptable one that maintains power output while ensuring compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar panel system is designed with universal connection capabilities that support multiple electrical configurations. The same panel assembly can be connected in series for high-voltage applications or in parallel for low-voltage applications, making the system universally compatible with various battery types and voltage requirements.
4Ease of operation
If detachable panels are used, then ease of maintenance and customization are improved, but connection reliability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The detachable panels incorporate self-aligning attachment mechanisms with alignment guides and positioning features. These design elements ensure that when panels are reattached, they automatically return to their correct positions and establish reliable electrical and mechanical connections without requiring precise manual alignment, thus maintaining connection reliability while preserving ease of maintenance.
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
The system provides a versatile, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing portable energy source that optimizes energy generation and storage, meeting user needs for mobile power and comfort, with the ability to charge devices multiple times during outdoor activities.
Implementation Method 1
The panels are embedded with a plurality of solar cells and are configured to generate electricity when exposed to sunlight
Implementation Method 2
The system includes a battery connected to the solar panels. This battery is capable of storing the electricity generated during exposure to sunlight
Data Source
AI summary
A solar jacket that functions as an article of clothing and a portable energy system is provided. The jacket includes detachable panels embedded with a plurality of solar cells, which are interconnected by wiring that can be configured in series or parallel according to the wearer's preference. The generated electricity is stored in an integrated battery that features a connector for supplying power to external devices. This innovative design offers a practical solution for on-the-go energy generation and usage while ensuring ease of maintenance and customization.