Portable Power Case Thermal Shielding for Mesh Network Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable power solutions for military applications face challenges in heat management, as heat-generating devices can cause discomfort and damage, and increase the thermal signature, making users more detectable by thermal imaging.
Innovation Solution
A portable power case with a heat-shielding or heat-dissipating material layer or coating, combined with a system that includes a rechargeable battery powered by a DC power source like a solar panel or water turbine, which forms a mesh network for continuous operation without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If heat-generating devices are used for portable power supply, then power supply capability is improved, but thermal signature increases making users detectable by thermal imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a portable power case as an intermediary device between the heat-generating power source and the user's communication equipment. The power case contains thermal management materials (heat dissipation materials, phase change materials, or thermally insulating materials) that act as mediators to manage heat transfer, preventing direct thermal contact between the power source and the user while still providing power supply functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful thermal energy generated by the power source into a beneficial thermal management system. By incorporating phase change materials that absorb excess heat during phase transitions, the system transforms the harmful thermal signature into a controlled thermal regulation mechanism that maintains operational temperature while reducing detectable heat emission.
2Power
If heat-generating devices are used, then power supply capability is improved, but heat may be transferred to the person using or carrying the device causing discomfort or burns
Solution Approach 1:
The portable power case serves as a thermal intermediary, containing thermal management materials that control heat flow between the power source and the user. These materials (insulating layers, phase change materials) create a thermal barrier that prevents direct heat transfer to the user's body while allowing the power source to maintain its operational temperature for continuous power supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different thermal management properties to different regions within the power case. Heat dissipation materials are positioned near the power source to manage localized heat generation, while thermally insulating materials are positioned toward the user interface to protect the user. This spatial differentiation of thermal properties allows simultaneous power supply and user protection.
3Power
If heat-generating devices are used, then power supply capability is improved, but heat may be transferred to other devices causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The power case acts as a thermal isolation intermediary between the heat-generating power source and other electronic devices. The case incorporates thermally insulating materials and heat dissipation structures that prevent thermal coupling, allowing the power source to generate necessary heat for operation while protecting connected devices from thermal damage.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If portable power cases with thermal management materials are used, then thermal signature is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where multiple functional layers are integrated within the portable power case. Thermal management materials (phase change materials, insulating layers, heat dissipation structures) are nested within the case housing, creating a compact multi-functional device that provides power supply, thermal management, and protection without requiring separate external systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The power case utilizes composite material construction, combining different materials with complementary thermal properties in a single integrated structure. This includes composite housings with embedded thermal management layers, and multi-material construction that achieves thermal management functionality without requiring complex mechanical assemblies or multiple separate components.
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 effectively manages heat transfer, reduces the thermal signature, and maintains a mesh network for extended periods, ensuring continuous communication without user intervention.
Implementation Method 1
A portable power case with a heat-shielding or heat-dissipating material layer or coating
Implementation Method 2
A portable power case with a heat-shielding or heat-dissipating material layer or coating
Implementation Method 3
receive power from a direct current (DC) power source (e.g., solar panel)
Implementation Method 4
receive power from a direct current (DC) power source (e.g., solar panel, water turbine)
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and articles for a portable power case are disclosed. The portable power case is comprised of at least one battery and at least one PCB. The portable power case is operable to supply power to a transceiver. The portable power case is operable to be charged using a DC power source (e.g., solar panel, wind turbine, water turbine). A plurality of portable power cases, DC power sources, and transceivers are operable to form a mesh network.