Energy Conversion Material with Reversible Property Control Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional energy conversion materials are limited by a single energy conversion mode and are not suitable for continuous operation in IoT sensors, as they require external energy storage and are difficult to micro-integrate, making them unsuitable for long-term use in varying environments.
Innovation Solution
An energy conversion material with a property control layer between 2-dimensional active layers that reversibly switches between photovoltaic, piezoelectric, and thermoelectric properties in response to external environmental factors, such as light, temperature, and pressure, allowing for optimized energy generation in different conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional energy conversion material based on a single energy conversion mode is used, then the device structure is simple, but the energy generation is limited to a single mode and cannot adapt to varying environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional energy conversion material that can operate in multiple energy conversion modes (photovoltaic, piezoelectric, thermoelectric) within a single device structure. The property control layer enables the material to exhibit different energy conversion properties depending on environmental conditions, allowing one device to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic property control layer that can reversibly change its properties in response to environmental factors such as light, temperature, and pressure. This dynamic adjustment allows the energy conversion mode to adapt automatically to varying environmental conditions, transitioning between photovoltaic, piezoelectric, and thermoelectric modes as needed
2Duration of action of moving object
If a conventional energy conversion material designed for maximum efficiency in a predetermined environment is used, then the energy conversion efficiency is maximized under specific conditions, but the operation is limited to a limited period of time and requires external energy storage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous energy generation by allowing the material to adapt its energy conversion mode to match prevailing environmental conditions. When environmental conditions change (e.g., from light-rich to pressure-rich environments), the property control layer reversibly switches the dominant energy conversion mode, ensuring continuous useful action without interruption or need for energy storage
Solution Approach 2:
The energy conversion material is self-regulating through its property control layer that automatically responds to environmental changes. The material self-adjusts its energy conversion properties based on environmental factors such as light intensity, temperature, and pressure, eliminating the need for external control systems or energy storage components
3Productivity
If various energy sources are combined through combination of energy generating modes, then the energy generation capability is improved, but the device complexity increases and micro-integration becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple energy conversion functionalities (photovoltaic, piezoelectric, thermoelectric) into a single integrated material structure. The property control layer acts as a unified control mechanism that coordinates all energy conversion modes within one device, eliminating the need for separate circuits and control systems that would be required if multiple independent energy generation devices were combined
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
Enables continuous energy generation in a small-sized device, suitable for IoT sensors, by spontaneously and reversibly changing energy conversion modes in response to environmental changes, improving energy yield and suitability for IoT applications.
Implementation Method 1
the 2-dimensional active layers may have any property selected from the group consisting of photovoltaic, piezoelectric, and thermoelectric properties
Implementation Method 2
the 2-dimensional active layers may have any property selected from the group consisting of photovoltaic, piezoelectric, and thermoelectric properties
Implementation Method 3
the 2-dimensional active layers may have any property selected from the group consisting of photovoltaic, piezoelectric, and thermoelectric properties
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an energy conversion material including: a pair of 2-dimensional active layers; and a property control layer positioned between the 2-dimensional active layers, and the property control layer is changed in any one or more of structure and state depending on an external environmental factor and performs reversible switching between the 2-dimensional active layers.