Self-Powered Energy Harvesting Sensor Controller
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion-sensing systems require external power, limiting their placement and increasing the number of sensors needed for complete spatial coverage, especially in complex geometries or areas without hardwired power outlets.
Innovation Solution
A self-powered energy harvesting sensor/controller system that uses photovoltaic cells to collect and store energy, allowing wireless communication with sensors and eliminating the need for external power, enabling flexible placement of sensors and harvesting units for optimal energy harvesting and sensing coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external power is required for motion-sensing systems, then the system can operate reliably, but the placement options are limited and the number of sensors needed increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system generates its own power through energy harvesting from the environment (light, heat, or radio frequency energy), eliminating the need for external power outlets. This self-powered capability allows sensors to be placed in optimal locations for both power availability and sensing coverage, reducing the total number of sensors required while increasing placement flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The energy harvesting unit serves multiple functions: it powers the sensor electronics, enables wireless communication, and allows flexible placement. By integrating power generation, sensing, and communication in a single self-powered unit, the system achieves both reduced sensor quantity and increased adaptability
2Measurement precision
If sensors are placed in optimal locations for sensing coverage, then the sensing performance is maximized, but the availability of external power outlets limits placement options
Solution Approach 1:
The self-powered sensor eliminates the constraint of needing nearby power outlets, allowing installation in any location that provides environmental energy (light, heat, or RF signals). This enables placement in optimal positions for sensing coverage such as high ceilings, corners, or areas with specific environmental conditions, while the ease of installation is maintained through wireless operation
3Power
If the harvesting unit is placed near sensors, then power can be provided, but the harvesting efficiency is reduced when light sources are not available at sensor locations
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the energy harvesting function from the sensing function by using low-power cables to connect sensors to the harvesting unit. This segmentation allows the harvesting unit to be positioned independently in locations with optimal energy availability (such as near windows or artificial lights), while sensors can be distributed throughout the space for comprehensive coverage
Solution Approach 2:
Low-power cables act as intermediaries connecting the sensors to the harvesting unit, enabling the separation of the harvesting unit from the sensor locations. This intermediary connection allows the harvesting unit to be placed where energy is abundant while still providing power to sensors distributed throughout the space
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
Minimizes the number of sensors required for comprehensive coverage and allows for efficient energy harvesting, as the harvesting unit can be placed in optimal locations like near constant light sources, reducing the need for wiring and enhancing system performance.
Implementation Method 1
The HU 10 has one or more photovoltaic (PV) cells 70 that collect light that is converted to and stored as electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
A self-powered energy harvesting unit/controller receives motion data from one or more self-powered sensors via low power wire. The energy harvesting unit sends signals wirelessly to a system to perform certain functions as a result of received motion signals or the absence of such motion signals.