Solar-Powered Mobile Vending Trailer Power System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Vending machines are limited in their use due to the requirement for a reliable traditional AC power source, restricting their availability in areas without access to the power grid, and existing solutions do not effectively provide both off-grid and on-grid power options for mobile vending systems.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained mobile vending trailer equipped with interchangeable power sources, including solar panels, wind turbines, and an electrical generator, which allows for both off-grid and on-grid operation, using a combination of solar and wind power, and the ability to feed excess power back into the utility grid through a grid-tie inverter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If vending machines use traditional AC power sources, then reliability of power supply is improved, but adaptability to different locations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile vending trailer is designed with multiple power source options (grid power, generator power, and battery power) that can be interchangeably used. The power system includes a transfer switch that automatically selects the appropriate power source, enabling the vending machine to operate reliably in diverse locations whether connected to the power grid or not.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply system is designed to be dynamic and adaptable, allowing the vending trailer to transition between different power sources based on availability. The system can operate in grid-connected mode, standalone generator mode, or battery-powered mode, providing continuous reliable power while adapting to different operational environments and locations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If vending machines are made mobile, then location flexibility is improved, but power supply reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile vending trailer incorporates a universal power system that accepts multiple power sources. The trailer can be deployed to any location and will automatically or manually switch between grid power, generator power, and battery power to maintain reliable operation, thus preserving reliability while achieving mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes battery power as a backup cushion against power interruptions. When the trailer is mobile and away from grid power, the battery provides predetermined energy reserves to maintain operation, cushioning against the lack of reliable external power supply in remote locations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If alternative power sources are used, then adaptability to remote locations is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A power management controller and transfer switch act as intermediaries between the multiple power sources (grid, generator, batteries) and the vending machine. These intermediary devices automatically manage power source selection, voltage regulation, and switching, simplifying the user interface while handling the complexity of coordinating multiple power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple power source systems into a single integrated power supply unit. The grid power input, generator input, and battery bank are merged through a common power management system that coordinates their operation, reducing the overall complexity compared to having separate independent systems.
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 the provision of vending services in remote locations with alternative power sources, reducing operational costs and environmental impact while maintaining flexibility and reliability by utilizing solar, wind, and grid power, and allowing for remote monitoring and inventory management.
Implementation Method 1
a solar panel array, having a plurality of solar panels disposed upon the housing, configured to capture sunlight and convert the captured sunlight into electricity
Implementation Method 2
a wind turbine, having a plurality of blades pushed by wind, and configured to extract energy from the wind to create wind power
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile vending trailer is provided. In at least one embodiment, a solar-powered mobile vending apparatus includes: a portable chassis; a housing; at least one vending machine configured to be stored and transported in the housing; a solar panel array configured to capture sunlight and convert the captured sunlight into electricity, thereby to provide solar power to the vending machine; a plurality of batteries configured for charge from the electricity generated from the solar panel array in order to provide power to the at least one vending machine; a controller configured to control the solar panel array and the plurality of batteries; and at least one lift configured to lower and raise the vending machine. The solar-powered mobile vending apparatus is adapted for use both off-grid and on-grid. In various embodiments, the apparatus also includes one or more of a wind turbine, generator, inverter, and combiner.