Modular Wireless Sensor Power Using Indoor Photovoltaic Harvesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems face challenges in providing customizable and reliable power solutions for high-power sensors and electronics, particularly in indoor environments, where traditional energy sources like batteries are inefficient and require frequent maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A modular sensor system with wireless energy harvesting and communication capabilities, utilizing photovoltaic cells and blind-mate connectors, allows for customizable sensor deployment and continuous power supply through energy harvesters like OPV modules, which are optimized for indoor light conditions, enabling higher power output and extended device lifetime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If traditional batteries or capacitors are used for power supply, then the device can operate, but the device requires frequent maintenance and has limited lifetime
Solution Approach 1:
The energy harvester enables the device to generate its own power autonomously from ambient light sources, eliminating the need for external battery replacement or recharging. The system self-sustains through continuous energy harvesting from the environment, providing indefinite operation without maintenance intervention.
2Use of energy by moving object
If batteries or capacitors are used, then the device can be powered, but the available energy is insufficient for high-power sensors and electronics
Solution Approach 1:
The energy harvester provides continuous power generation as long as ambient light is available, eliminating the intermittent operation constraints of battery-powered devices. This continuous energy supply enables high-power sensors and electronics to operate at full capacity without being limited by stored energy capacity.
3Area of stationary object
If silicon-powered devices with similar energy harvesting are used, then the energy harvesting capability is achieved, but the device size is larger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from silicon-based photovoltaic materials to organic photovoltaic materials, fundamentally changing the material parameter to achieve superior indoor light energy harvesting efficiency. This material parameter change enables the device to harvest energy more effectively from indoor lighting conditions while maintaining a compact form factor.
4Adaptability or versatility
If wireless energy harvesting and modular sensors are implemented, then customizable sensor deployment is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is divided into modular sensor units that can be independently configured and attached to the hub. Each sensor module is a self-contained unit that can be selectively added or removed, enabling customized sensor deployment without requiring complex integrated system design. The modular architecture simplifies the overall system complexity by breaking it into standardized, interchangeable components.
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 system provides reliable and frequent communication, powers high-power sensors and electronics, and facilitates easy installation without permanent wiring, enhancing reliability and reducing maintenance needs, suitable for various applications including agriculture, IoT, and home automation.
Implementation Method 1
the one or more energy harvesters comprise a photovoltaic cell
Data Source
AI summary
A modular sensor system comprising a plurality of modules, the plurality of modules comprising one or more sensors, one or more energy harvesters, one or more energy storage devices, one or more wireless radios, and one or more electronics devices, wherein the one or more energy harvesters comprise a photovoltaic cell; and one or more blind-mate connectors contained within each of the plurality of modules, wherein the one or more blind-mate connectors comprise an electrical connector to transmit power and/or data and configured to connect two modules of the plurality of modules together.