MEMS Solar Reflector Calibration Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar power generators using flat-plate technologies have low solar-to-power conversion efficiencies, are 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 calibration circuit and actuation devices to maintain optimal electrical output by repositioning reflectors based on changing light sources, thereby enhancing energy concentration and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If flat-plate solar technologies are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but solar-to-power conversion efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the reflectors movable and adjustable rather than fixed. Each reflector can be independently repositioned to track the sun's movement throughout the day, maintaining optimal light concentration on the solar cells. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction by enabling high efficiency through movement while maintaining relative system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of light concentration by using adjustable reflectors to concentrate sunlight onto the solar cells. By varying the position and angle of reflectors, the system optimizes light concentration parameters to maximize energy conversion efficiency while keeping the overall device structure relatively simple.
2Device complexity
If flat-plate solar technologies are used, then device structure remains simple, but charge time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic reflector system continuously tracks and follows the sun's path, ensuring maximum light concentration on the solar cells throughout the day. This dynamic tracking capability significantly increases energy capture rate, reducing charge time while adding only moderate complexity through simple mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
3Loss of energy
If frequent adjustments are made to track the sun, then energy conversion efficiency is maintained, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-service through automatic tracking mechanisms where the reflectors autonomously adjust their positions based on sun movement. This eliminates the need for manual intervention while maintaining continuous optimal energy conversion efficiency, resolving the contradiction between frequent adjustments and operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor light concentration and automatically adjust reflector positions to maintain optimal efficiency. This closed-loop control system performs frequent adjustments automatically based on real-time conditions, maintaining high energy conversion while simplifying operation through automation.
4Quantity of substance
If solar cell size is reduced through concentration, then energy density increases, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic adjustability of the reflectors provides real-time alignment correction, compensating for manufacturing tolerances. By allowing post-assembly adjustment of reflector positions and angles, the system achieves precise light concentration on smaller solar cells without requiring extremely tight manufacturing precision during assembly.
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 improves solar-to-power conversion efficiency, reduces the size of solar cells required, and eliminates the need for frequent adjustments, resulting in faster charging times and higher energy output.
Implementation Method 1
A micro-concentrator solar array with MEMS-based reflectors that dynamically adjust to focus light onto solar cells, using a calibration circuit and actuation devices to maintain optimal electrical output
Implementation Method 2
MEMS-based reflectors that dynamically adjust to focus light onto solar cells, thereby enhancing energy concentration and efficiency
Implementation Method 3
Solar cells convert light energy, typically from the sun, into electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for calibrating a reflector in a solar array. A switch device is switched from a first state to a second state. A calibration voltage is applied to each of a set of actuation devices associated with the reflector in response to the switch device switching to the second state when the calibration circuit is electrically connected to the set of actuation devices.