Power Generating Apparatus Switching Photovoltaic and Thermal Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar cells are unable to generate power at night and may not produce sufficient power during rainy or cloudy days due to weak sunlight, necessitating a solution for continuous energy production.
Innovation Solution
A power generating apparatus that switches between photovoltaic and thermal power generation modes using a control apparatus and mode switching unit, allowing it to convert light energy into electricity during the day and thermal energy into electricity at night or in low-light conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If solar cells are used to generate power, then power can be generated during daytime with sunlight, but power cannot be generated at nighttime or during rainy/cloudy days
Solution Approach 1:
The power generating apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it can generate power through photovoltaic effect during daytime and through thermal effect at nighttime or during rainy/cloudy days. The same apparatus switches between different power generation mechanisms based on environmental conditions, making it universally applicable across all weather and time conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The power generating apparatus dynamically switches between photovoltaic and thermal power generation modes based on real-time detection of light intensity and temperature conditions. The control apparatus adjusts the operational mode to optimize power generation under varying environmental conditions, making the system adaptive and dynamic rather than static.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single power generation mode is used, then the device structure can be simple, but continuous power generation under varying weather conditions cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The same power generating apparatus performs both photovoltaic and thermal power generation functions, eliminating the need for separate systems. This multi-functional design achieves adaptability across different weather conditions while avoiding the complexity of maintaining entirely separate power generation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines photovoltaic and thermal power generation capabilities into a single integrated apparatus. The control apparatus merges both power generation modes within one system, allowing seamless transition between modes without requiring completely separate infrastructure, thus balancing complexity and adaptability.
3Use of energy by moving object
If photovoltaic mode is used during daytime, then light energy can be converted to electricity, but thermal energy cannot be utilized for power generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts what would otherwise be wasted thermal energy into useful power generation. During daytime, when photovoltaic mode is operating, the thermal energy that would be lost is instead captured and utilized for thermal power generation, particularly during nighttime or cloudy conditions. This transforms energy waste into energy production.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters based on environmental conditions - switching from photovoltaic mode to thermal mode based on temperature and light intensity parameters. This parameter-based switching allows the system to utilize different energy forms (light energy vs. thermal energy) according to available environmental conditions, maximizing overall energy utilization.
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
Enables continuous power generation around the clock, regardless of weather conditions, by utilizing sunlight during the day and thermal energy at night, with efficient mode switching to maximize power output.
Implementation Method 1
A power generating apparatus includes a pn stack including a p-type semiconductor layer and an n-type semiconductor layer which are stacked one on top of the other; a mode switching unit which effects switching to a photovoltaic power generation mode or a thermal power generation mode
Implementation Method 2
In the thermal power generation mode, a temperature difference is set up between longitudinal ends of the p-type semiconductor layer or the n-type semiconductor layer, thereby an electromotive force is generated and thus thermal energy is converted into electric energy
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(A)~2(B)
Figure 3(A)~3(B)
AI summary
A power generating apparatus according to an aspect of the invention includes a plurality of pn stacks 11, each formed by stacking a p-type semiconductor layer 11a and an n-type semiconductor layer 11b one on top of the other, and a mode switching unit 16 which effects switching to a photovoltaic power generation mode or a thermal power generation mode by connecting the plurality of pn stacks with each other. The mode switching unit 16 effects switching to the photovoltaic power generation mode by connecting the p-type semiconductor layers 11a in parallel with each other and the n-type semiconductor layers 11b in parallel with each other between the plurality of pn stacks 11. The mode switching unit 16 effects switching to the thermal power generation mode by connecting the p-type semiconductor layer 11a and the n-type semiconductor layer 11b in series between different ones of the pn stacks 11.