Modular License Plate Camera With Solar Energy Harvesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
After-market license plate camera systems lack the ability to independently position components to meet local regulations and accommodate various license plate dimensions, leading to installation difficulties and high return rates due to power and wiring challenges, as well as limited battery life in wireless systems.
Innovation Solution
A modular camera system with an energy harvesting module, comprising a camera base, solar cell mounts, and a backplate, allowing independent positioning and easy adaptation to different license plate dimensions, with solar cells for energy replenishment and adhesive or screw mounting options, enabling continuous operation without manual battery replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed camera system is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate different license plate dimensions and positioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is divided into modular components including the camera unit, mounting bracket, and positioning elements that can be independently adjusted. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different license plate dimensions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket incorporates adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow dynamic reconfiguration of the camera's location and orientation. This dynamic capability enables compliance with varying local regulations without requiring a completely different fixed structure for each region.
2Ease of operation
If wireless camera systems with battery are used, then installation is easier, but battery life is limited requiring frequent replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates an energy harvesting module with solar cells that automatically recharge the battery during operation. This self-service energy replenishment eliminates the need for frequent manual battery replacements while maintaining the ease of wireless installation.
3Reliability
If wired camera systems are used, then power supply is reliable, but installation complexity increases due to wiring requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The energy harvesting module with integrated solar cells provides autonomous power generation, eliminating the need for complex wiring connections while ensuring reliable power supply. The system serves itself by converting solar energy into electrical energy to charge the battery.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical wiring system is replaced with an energy conversion system using photovoltaic cells. This substitution transitions from a complex electrical connection mechanism to a simpler optical-to-electrical energy conversion process.
4Duration of action of moving object
If solar cells are added for energy harvesting, then battery life is extended, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solar cells are implemented as a separate, independently replaceable module within the camera assembly. This segmentation allows the energy harvesting component to be added or removed without affecting the core camera functionality, managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support, enables positioning adjustment, and houses the energy harvesting module. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, managing overall system 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 modular system facilitates compliance with local regulations, reduces installation complexity, and extends camera operation from months to potentially unlimited use by harnessing solar energy, minimizing the need for frequent battery replacements and costly tooling for diverse license plate sizes.
Implementation Method 1
at least one side plate containing a first solar cell section
Data Source
AI summary
A motor vehicle license plate mount having a modular license plate frame including a base section and two side mounts for securing license plates of varying widths and heights to the vehicle and a camera housing including a lens and with the base section forming a slot for receiving an exterior edge of the license plate. Electrical cables connect at least one side mount to the base section providing power to the camera unit via a local solar cell disposed on at least one side mount.