Dual-Battery Power Supply for Solar Parking Meter Backup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply units for devices like parking meters face challenges in ensuring continuous power supply when the main battery is insufficiently charged, as they lack a reliable backup power source and efficient charging mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A power supply unit with a rechargeable main battery, a non-rechargeable backup battery, and a control unit that manages power distribution from both batteries, along with a charging arrangement and communication device for notifications, utilizing solar panels for recharging and a cellular module for wireless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a rechargeable main battery is used, then the device can be recharged and operated for extended periods, but the battery may become insufficiently charged or fail, requiring a backup power source
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a backup battery system that is activated beforehand when the main battery becomes insufficiently charged. The control unit monitors the main battery status and automatically switches to the backup battery, providing a cushion against power failure and ensuring continuous operation of the parking meter.
2Reliability
If a backup battery is included, then power supply reliability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit automatically monitors the main battery charge status and manages the switching between main and backup batteries without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates the power supply configuration, reducing the need for complex manual control mechanisms while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The backup battery serves multiple functions: it acts as a power source when the main battery is insufficient, and it can be easily replaced by the user. The system design integrates the backup battery into the existing power supply architecture, making it a multi-functional component that enhances reliability without requiring entirely separate control systems.
3Ease of repair
If the backup battery is easily replaceable, then maintenance ease is improved, but the connection complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into distinct modules: the main battery, the backup battery, and their respective connectors. The backup battery is designed as a separate, self-contained unit with its own connectors, allowing it to be easily removed and replaced without affecting the main battery or other system components. This modular segmentation simplifies maintenance while managing connection complexity through standardized interfaces.
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 reliable power supply by switching to the backup battery when the main battery is low, minimizing backup battery usage and extending its lifespan, while providing notifications for maintenance and efficient recharging through solar power and wireless communication.
Implementation Method 1
The charging arrangement includes charging terminals for connecting the unit to a solar panel
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply unit for supplying power to a device has a rechargeable, main battery; a charging arrangement for charging the main battery; a non-rechargeable back-up battery; load terminals for connection to a load; and a control unit for controlling supply of power to the load primarily from the main battery and secondarily from the back-up battery. The device is, in particular, a single bay, stand alone parking meter. In the event that the main battery runs low, the control unit is configured to supply power to the load from both the main battery and the back-up battery or only from the back-up battery. The back-up battery is easily replaceable, and the power supply unit has a bay, with connectors for receiving the back-up battery. The main battery is charged from solar panels. A communication device is provided to communicate status messages wirelessly to a control system.