Photovoltaic Cell Array Dynamic Switching for Energy and Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current photovoltaic cell technologies lack the flexibility to dynamically switch between energy conversion and imaging modes, limiting their efficiency and performance in applications requiring both functions.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a set of switches with each photovoltaic cell in a pixel-based array allows for dynamic configuration between energy conversion and imaging modes, enabling the cells to be used either for generating electricity or capturing images based on switch settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If photovoltaic cells are dedicated to energy conversion, then energy conversion efficiency is improved, but adaptability to imaging applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic cell is designed with switchable circuitry that allows it to function as either an energy conversion device or an imaging sensor. By integrating both functionalities into a single cell structure with controllable switching mechanisms, the system achieves multi-functionality, enabling the same hardware to serve dual purposes based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of the photovoltaic cell circuitry through switches that can change the cell's operational mode in real-time. This dynamic switching capability allows the system to adapt between energy conversion and imaging modes, making the cell structure flexible and responsive to changing operational demands.
2Measurement precision
If photovoltaic cells are dedicated to imaging, then imaging performance is improved, but energy conversion capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic cell structure incorporates dual functionality, allowing it to operate as either an imaging sensor or an energy conversion device. The same pixel-based array that can capture images with high precision also maintains the capability to convert light into electrical energy, eliminating the need for separate dedicated imaging components.
Solution Approach 2:
The cell employs switchable circuitry that enables dynamic reconfiguration between imaging mode and energy conversion mode. This dynamic switching allows the system to optimize for imaging performance when needed while preserving energy conversion capability for other operational phases.
3Use of energy by moving object
If photovoltaic cells are configured for energy conversion, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases due to switch integration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the switching control circuitry directly within the photovoltaic cell structure, merging multiple functions into a single integrated unit. This integration approach reduces overall system complexity by eliminating the need for separate external switching components and interconnections.
Solution Approach 2:
The photovoltaic cell structure is designed to be self-sufficient, with the switching mechanisms and control logic embedded within the cell itself. This self-service design allows the cell to autonomously manage its own configuration between imaging and energy conversion modes without requiring complex external control systems.
4Adaptability or versatility
If photovoltaic cells are made dynamically configurable, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to switch settings
Solution Approach 1:
The control switches and configuration mechanisms are integrated directly into the photovoltaic cell structure, merging the adaptability functions with the core cell operations. This integration simplifies the overall system architecture by eliminating separate control modules and reducing the complexity of interconnections.
Solution Approach 2:
The photovoltaic cell is designed with self-managing switching capabilities, where the configuration changes are handled autonomously within the cell structure. This self-service approach to dynamic reconfiguration reduces the need for complex external control systems and simplifies the overall device architecture.
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 solution enhances the flexibility and performance of photovoltaic cells by allowing them to efficiently convert energy or capture images, improving their overall energy efficiency and imaging capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
A photovoltaic cell is a solid state electrical device that converts the energy of light directly into electricity by the photovoltaic effect
Implementation Method 2
Imaging is done using a grid of light sensitive cells or pixels that are capable of producing an electrical charge proportional to the amount of light they receive
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention relate to photovoltaic cells. Specifically, the present invention relates to photovoltaic (PV) cells configurable for energy conversion and imaging. In a typical embodiment, each photovoltaic cell (PV) in the photovoltaic array is divided into a pixel-based array. Each photovoltaic cell is coupled to a set of switches and the photovoltaic cell is dynamically configured for energy conversion or imaging based on the settings of at least one of the switches.