Multifunctional solar energy system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar energy systems have limited functionality, failing to meet diverse human needs such as simultaneous heating and electricity generation, as they are typically designed for single functions like photothermal or photoelectric conversion.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional solar energy system incorporating a converging system with a light-focusing refractive surface and a reflective surface, where at least one component is movable, allowing for the sequential or simultaneous use of multiple solar energy utilization devices for different applications, such as solar heating and photovoltaic energy generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a solar energy system is designed with a single function (photothermal or photoelectric conversion), then the system structure is simple and cost is low, but the system cannot meet diverse human needs at different times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by integrating both photothermal conversion devices (solar water heater, solar cooker) and photoelectric conversion devices (photovoltaic panels) within a single solar energy system. The converging system directs solar energy to multiple utilization devices simultaneously or sequentially, allowing the system to provide both thermal and electrical energy based on different user needs throughout the day
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates movable components including a movable reflective surface and movable solar energy utilization devices. These dynamic elements can be adjusted to optimize energy distribution between different functions at different times, enabling the system to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple solar energy utilization devices are added to achieve multifunctionality, then the system can meet diverse needs, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple solar energy utilization devices (water heater, cooker, photovoltaic panels) under a single converging system that includes refractive surfaces, reflective surfaces, and support structures. By sharing common components such as the converging optics, mounting framework, and control mechanisms, the system achieves multifunctionality while minimizing the total quantity of materials and components required compared to separate single-function systems
Solution Approach 2:
The shared converging system serves multiple utilization devices simultaneously or sequentially, allowing one set of optical components and support structures to enable multiple functions. This universal approach reduces the need for duplicate components for each function, thereby controlling system cost while providing diverse energy solutions
3Productivity
If movable components are introduced to enable sequential use of multiple devices, then the comprehensive utilization rate of solar energy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces movable reflective surfaces and movable utilization devices that can be repositioned to direct solar energy to different targets at different times. This dynamic capability allows the system to sequentially serve multiple functions (e.g., switching between water heating and cooking) and improves comprehensive utilization by capturing and redirecting energy that would otherwise be lost, while maintaining relatively simple mechanical movement mechanisms
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
This design enhances the comprehensive utilization rate of solar energy, enabling multiple functions with minimal cost increase, thereby optimizing the use of natural clean energy for various needs.
Implementation Method 1
The converging system includes at least one light-focusing refractive surface
Implementation Method 2
one reflective surface, which is arranged below the light-focusing refractive surface along a solar incident direction
Implementation Method 3
the two solar energy utilization devices are used for absorbing and utilizing sunlight
Implementation Method 4
a solar power generation system that performs photoelectric conversion
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a multifunctional solar energy system comprising a converging system and two solar energy utilization devices (P1, P2), wherein the converging system comprises at least one light-focusing refractive surface (s1) and one reflective surface (s2); at least one of the reflective surface (s2) and the two solar energy utilization devices (P1, P2) are movable; if the reflective surface (s2) is movable, the two solar energy utilization devices (P1, P2) are respectively provided on light paths before and after the reflective surface (s2) moves; and if the reflective surface (s2) is fixed, the two solar energy utilization devices (P1, P2) are successively provided in the light path after the reflective surface (s2). The solar energy system is able to place one of the two solar energy utilization devices (P1, P2) in the light path by moving the movable component so as to respectively use the two solar energy utilization devices (P1, P2) at different times, thereby greatly extending the function of the solar energy system and improving the comprehensive utilization rate of the system.