Micro-Concentrator Solar Array Calibration via MEMS Actuation
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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 and a control module that dynamically adjusts the reflectors to focus light onto solar cells, maintaining optimal electrical output by tracking the sun's position and repositioning reflectors when output falls below a threshold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If flat-plate solar technologies are used, then the device is simple and easy to manufacture, but the solar-to-power conversion efficiency is low and the size is large
Solution Approach 1:
The solar array is divided into multiple independently controllable segments, each with its own reflector and solar cell. This segmentation allows each segment to be optimized for maximum light concentration while maintaining overall system simplicity and manufacturability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical concentration parameter by introducing reflective surfaces that concentrate light onto smaller solar cells. This parameter change increases the solar-to-power conversion efficiency while keeping the manufacturing process relatively simple.
2Device complexity
If flat-plate solar technologies are used, then the device structure is simple, but the charge time is long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamically adjustable reflectors that can change their orientation to track the sun's movement throughout the day. This dynamic adjustment maximizes light concentration on the solar cells, significantly 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's position, then the energy conversion efficiency is maintained, but the device complexity and operation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The solar array incorporates automatic sun-tracking mechanisms that self-adjust the reflector positions based on the sun's position. This self-service capability maintains high energy conversion efficiency throughout the day without requiring manual intervention, thereby preserving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from light sensors or position detectors to automatically adjust the reflector angles, ensuring optimal light concentration is maintained as the sun moves across the sky. This feedback mechanism preserves energy conversion efficiency while eliminating the need for manual operation.
4Device complexity
If the solar array operates without dynamic threshold adjustment, then the device complexity is reduced, but the energy conversion efficiency and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic threshold adjustment for the electrical output, allowing the system to adapt to changing light conditions throughout the day. This dynamic parameter adjustment optimizes energy conversion efficiency and productivity while adding minimal complexity through simple electronic control circuits.
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 micro-concentrator solar array achieves higher solar-to-power conversion efficiencies, reduces the size of solar cells, and eliminates the need for frequent adjustments, resulting in faster charging and improved energy conversion efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Solar cells convert light energy, typically from the sun, into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
The micro-concentrator solar array includes a plurality of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) based reflectors arranged on a substrate, with each reflector selectively tiltable about a tilt axis
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and apparatus for calibrating a reflector (704) in a solar array (604). A switch device (722) is switched from a first state (732) to a second state (734). A calibration voltage is applied to each of a set of actuation devices (708) associated with the reflector (704) in response to the switch device (722) switching to the second state (734) when the calibration circuit (712) is electrically connected to the set of actuation devices (708).