PV Receiver Layout for Moving Power Beams and Current Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power beaming systems face challenges in accurately targeting receivers and avoiding hazards such as reflections and objects intruding on the power beam, particularly in free-space power beaming, which affects efficiency and safety.
Innovation Solution
A power receiver design incorporating a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) cells arranged in voltage groups with specific wiring configurations to minimize current mismatch and optimize light exposure, including a circuit board with apertures for light passage and a heat sink for efficient cooling, ensuring even distribution of PV cells and reduced current mismatch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If PV cells are arranged in voltage groups with specific wiring configurations, then power conversion efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The PV cell array is divided into multiple voltage groups, where each group contains PV cells connected in parallel. These voltage groups are then connected in series to achieve the desired output voltage. This segmentation allows for better current matching within each parallel group while maintaining the required voltage output, thereby improving overall power conversion efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
PV cells within each voltage group are positioned at different locations on the support surface to receive relatively equal amounts of light. This local optimization ensures that each parallel-connected cell contributes evenly to the group current, minimizing current mismatch and maximizing the efficiency of each local subgroup while maintaining overall system performance.
2Use of energy by moving object
If PV cells are positioned to receive light through circuit board apertures, then light exposure is optimized, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board is designed with a pattern of apertures that allow light to pass through to the PV cells positioned behind them. This porous structure enables selective light exposure to different PV cells while maintaining the structural integrity and electrical connectivity of the circuit board, optimizing light exposure efficiency without compromising manufacturing feasibility.
3Reliability
If PV cells are arranged in noncontiguous patterns, then current mismatch is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
PV cells within each voltage group are arranged and positioned to receive equal amounts of light, creating equipotential conditions for current generation. By ensuring that all parallel-connected cells in a group operate at the same effective potential (equal light exposure), the system minimizes current mismatch and improves reliability of power output.
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 design enhances power conversion efficiency by reducing current mismatch and improving safety through precise light exposure and efficient heat management, allowing for more effective and reliable power transmission.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) cells, each PV cell having an active surface configured to receive light for conversion to electric power
Data Source
AI summary
A free-space power receiver includes layouts of photovoltaic cells selected to optimize power extraction even when a power beam moves or changes profile on the receiver. The receiver may also include a circuit board having apertures therein whereby light may reach the photovoltaic cells. The circuit board may include suitable wiring for connecting the photovoltaic cells to one another and to a load for extraction of power.