MEMS Micro-Concentrator Solar Array for Dynamic Light Threshold Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar power generators using flat-plate technologies have low solar-to-power conversion efficiencies, are large and cumbersome, and require frequent adjustments to track the sun's position, leading to long charge times and inefficient energy conversion.
Innovation Solution
A micro-concentrator solar array with MEMS-based reflectors that dynamically adjust to focus light onto solar cells, using a control module to compute and maintain a selected electrical output threshold by repositioning reflectors based on light intensity and source position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If flat-plate solar technologies are used, then the device structure is simple, but the solar-to-power conversion efficiency is low and the device size is large
Solution Approach 1:
The solar collection system is divided into multiple independent micro-concentrator units, each with its own solar cell and reflector array. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized for high efficiency while maintaining overall system simplicity and ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines reflective surfaces with photovoltaic cells in a composite micro-concentrator structure. This composite design integrates light concentration and energy conversion functions, achieving high solar-to-power conversion efficiency without requiring large device size.
2Ease of manufacture
If flat-plate solar technologies are used, then the device structure is simple, but the device size is large and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into compact micro-concentrator units that can be densely packed. Each unit independently performs light concentration and conversion, enabling high power density in a small volume while keeping individual unit structures simple and easy to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from two-dimensional flat-plate configuration to three-dimensional micro-concentrator structures with reflective surfaces that fold or curve around solar cells. This dimensional change achieves high conversion efficiency in a compact volume while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
3Productivity
If frequent adjustments are made to track the sun's position, then the energy conversion efficiency is maintained, but the charge time increases and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The micro-concentrator units are pre-configured with fixed-geometry reflective surfaces that are optimized to concentrate light from the sun's typical position. This preliminary design eliminates the need for frequent active adjustments during operation, reducing charge time while maintaining high conversion efficiency through the concentrated light paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable reflective surfaces that can dynamically reposition to track the sun's movement. This dynamic capability maintains optimal energy conversion efficiency throughout the day without requiring frequent complete system adjustments, thereby reducing overall operational time and complexity.
4Productivity
If frequent adjustments are made to track the sun's position, then the energy conversion efficiency is maintained, but the operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective surfaces are pre-configured with fixed geometries that passively concentrate light from the sun's position without requiring active adjustment mechanisms. This preliminary design maintains high energy conversion efficiency while eliminating operational complexity associated with frequent tracking adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The micro-concentrator structure is designed to self-align and self-focus light through its geometric configuration. The reflective surfaces automatically direct light onto the solar cells based on the sun's position, eliminating the need for external control systems or frequent manual adjustments, thereby maintaining efficiency while reducing operational complexity.
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 solution enhances solar-to-power conversion efficiency, reduces the size of solar cells, and eliminates the need for frequent adjustments, resulting in faster charging times and improved energy harvesting capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
Solar cells convert light energy, typically from the sun, into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
A micro-concentrator solar array with MEMS-based reflectors that dynamically adjust to focus light onto solar cells
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for managing a solar array. Light is measured using a threshold sensor to generate sensor data. A selected threshold is computed for an electrical output generated by a plurality of solar cells in the solar array based on the sensor data using control logic in a control module.