Optical Power Converter Layout for High-Efficiency Remote Energy Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face inefficiencies in converting high-energy optical power to electrical power, particularly for remote industrial applications like ROVs and AUVs, due to limitations in photovoltaic conversion efficiency and temperature sensitivity of power conversion devices.
Innovation Solution
A tightly integrated 'mixed-mode' power converter system that uses a combination of photovoltaic arrays, thermoelectric converters, and Stirling generators to convert optical energy received from a remote laser into electrical energy in stages, maximizing conversion efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If photovoltaic arrays are used to convert optical energy to electrical energy, then direct power conversion is achieved, but conversion efficiency is limited and temperature sensitivity affects performance
Solution Approach 1:
The power conversion system is segmented into multiple independent conversion pathways: photovoltaic arrays for direct optical-to-electrical conversion, thermoelectric converters for optical-to-thermal-to-electrical conversion, and Stirling generators for optical-to-thermal-to-mechanical-to-electrical conversion. Each segment operates independently to handle different aspects of the optical energy spectrum, reducing the impact of temperature sensitivity on any single conversion mechanism while maximizing overall efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of power conversion by operating multiple conversion devices at different temperature regimes simultaneously. Photovoltaic arrays operate at lower temperatures for direct conversion, while thermoelectric converters and Stirling generators operate at elevated temperatures to convert waste thermal energy. This parameter differentiation allows each device to operate in its optimal temperature range, mitigating the temperature sensitivity problem.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a single conversion method is used, then device complexity is reduced, but overall conversion efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power conversion technologies (photovoltaic arrays, thermoelectric converters, and Stirling generators) into a single integrated hybrid system. These diverse conversion methods are combined to process optical energy through different physical mechanisms simultaneously, achieving an overall conversion efficiency of approximately 78.5% by capturing energy across multiple conversion pathways rather than relying on a single method.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid power conversion system achieves multi-functionality by incorporating conversion mechanisms that handle different forms of energy transformation: direct photovoltaic conversion, thermoelectric conversion, and thermal-mechanical conversion via Stirling engines. This universal approach allows the system to process optical energy through multiple functional pathways, maximizing energy extraction from the incident optical power while maintaining a unified system architecture.
3Productivity
If photovoltaic arrays are used for direct conversion, then simplicity is maintained, but conversion efficiency is insufficient for high-power applications
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts what would normally be waste thermal energy from photovoltaic operation into useful electrical power. Thermoelectric converters capture the thermal energy that would be lost as heat from the photovoltaic arrays and convert it to electricity. Additionally, Stirling generators capture and convert thermal energy to mechanical work and then to electricity. This approach transforms the harmful waste heat into a beneficial energy source, significantly increasing overall power conversion output and efficiency for high-power applications.
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 achieves a high overall conversion efficiency of 78.5% of the initial optical power to electricity, addressing the inefficiencies of previous designs and enabling practical sub-sea power converters for industrial applications.
Implementation Method 1
an end array having a first plurality of PV chips, each PV chip of said first and second pluralities of PV chips comprises a light-receiving surface
Implementation Method 2
beam-forming optics within the interior space positioned proximal to the second end of the said connector, said beam-forming optics having a focal plane
Data Source
AI summary
A power conversion system for converting optical energy received from a fiber optic line to electrical energy, the system comprises a housing, a heat sink within the housing, a high power connector coupled to the line and having an end positioned within the housing, beam forming optics within the interior space positioned proximal to the connector, and a partially spherical end array and annular arrays of photovoltaic chips.