Fiber Coupled Solar Cell Modules for Indoor Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar charging systems for consumer electronics devices are slow and require direct sunlight exposure, which can heat the devices and reduce their lifespan, while also losing light due to reflection.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a receiver to focus sunlight onto a fiber optic cable, which transmits concentrated sunlight to a solar cell integrated into the device, allowing for faster charging indoors without direct sunlight exposure and minimizing light loss through reflection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a solar panel is coupled directly to the device, then charging can occur anywhere sunlight is available, but the device heats up and may burn the user or reduce device lifetime
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the solar energy collection function from the device body by using a remote receiver and fiber optic cable to transmit light, isolating the heat-generating components from the sensitive electronics
Solution Approach 2:
A fiber optic cable acts as an intermediary to transmit concentrated sunlight from the receiver to the solar cell, allowing the solar cell to be positioned away from direct sunlight exposure while still receiving sufficient light for charging
2Productivity
If conventional solar panels are used, then the device can be charged, but the charging speed is very slow
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the light intensity parameter by concentrating sunlight using a receiver with lenses or reflectors, increasing the power density delivered to the solar cell to achieve faster charging speeds
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines multiple components (receiver with optical concentrating elements, fiber optic cable, and high-efficiency solar cell) to create a composite charging system that achieves high power output while maintaining design flexibility
3Use of energy by moving object
If direct sunlight is used for charging, then the solar cell can generate current, but light is lost due to reflection
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber optic cable serves as an intermediary that efficiently couples the concentrated light from the receiver to the solar cell, minimizing reflection losses through proper optical interface design
Solution Approach 2:
The system optimizes light transmission parameters by using optical coupling agents or index-matching materials at the fiber-solar cell interface to reduce reflection and maximize light energy transfer to the solar cell
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 rapid charging of consumer electronics devices indoors with reduced heat exposure and minimized light loss, extending device lifespan and improving charging efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a receiver to focus sunlight onto a fiber optic cable
Implementation Method 2
A fiber optic cable is coupled to the receiver. The fiber optic cable is configured to receive the concentrated sunlight
Implementation Method 3
the solar cell is configured to convert the concentrated sunlight into current to charge the battery
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a body and a rechargeable battery positioned within the body. A solar cell is coupled to the body and in communication with the battery. A connector is coupled to the body and configured to engage a corresponding connector of a fiber optic cable.