Portable Solar Panel Case With Aerodynamic Expandable Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing off-grid solar systems for mobile applications are heavy, difficult to store, and deploy, and lack an aerodynamic design, which increases wind resistance and affects fuel efficiency, while also being expensive and non-expandable.
Innovation Solution
A portable solar system with a non-hinged solar panel assembly and integrated case that is lightweight, easy to store, and expandable, featuring a universal interconnect system and a magnetic charge controller for customizable configurations, along with an aerodynamic frame to reduce wind resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If traditional off-grid solar systems are used for mobile applications, then power generation capability is achieved, but weight increases and portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The solar system is divided into separate modular components including solar panels, battery packs, charge controllers, and mounting hardware that can be independently selected and configured. This allows optimization of weight versus power generation capability by selecting only the necessary components for each specific application.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows adjustment of key parameters such as solar panel wattage, battery capacity, and frame size to match specific mobile application requirements. This enables customization of the weight-to-power ratio based on whether the priority is minimizing weight or maximizing power generation capability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If solar panels are installed in mobile applications, then power generation is enabled, but aerodynamic performance deteriorates due to wind resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel assembly incorporates adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow the panels to be positioned at different angles and orientations. This enables optimization of aerodynamic performance by adjusting panel configuration to minimize wind resistance during vehicle motion while maintaining adequate power generation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows different portions of the solar array to be positioned differently based on local aerodynamic requirements. Panels can be mounted on various surfaces (roof, hood, trunk) with different orientations to balance aerodynamic performance with power generation needs in specific locations.
3Ease of operation
If solar panels are made portable for mobile applications, then mobility is improved, but storage and deployment difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions into unified components: the mounting frame serves both as structural support and as the deployment mechanism, while the battery pack combines energy storage with physical protection. This reduces the number of separate parts that need to be managed during storage and deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting hardware and frame structures are designed to serve multiple purposes: they provide structural support, enable easy attachment and detachment, facilitate storage in compact configurations, and allow for quick deployment. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite the portable nature.
4Adaptability or versatility
If solar systems are customized for different mobile applications, then adaptability is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses standardized modular components that can be configured in different combinations to meet various application requirements. This segmentation allows customization without requiring complete redesign for each application, thereby controlling manufacturing costs through economies of scale on individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
Core components such as the mounting frame, connection hardware, and electrical interfaces are designed with universal compatibility across different solar panel and battery configurations. This universality enables adaptability to different mobile applications while maintaining cost efficiency through standardized manufacturing processes.
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 solution provides a lightweight, easy-to-deploy, and customizable solar system that reduces wind resistance and improves fuel efficiency, while simplifying assembly and enabling expandable configurations, making it suitable for mobile applications such as vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
a solar panel assembly (100) and a case (421)
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a portable solar system includes a solar panel assembly and a case. The solar panel assembly includes a frame at least partially surrounding the solar panel assembly. The case includes a case front and a case back. The case back is movably attached to the case front at a first hinge. The frame of the solar panel assembly is attached to the case back on an interior side of the case. The case back includes a storage pocket that is accessible from an exterior side of the case.