Reconfigurable Solar Cell Circuitry for Portable Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices face limitations in power supply due to the small size of solar cells, which generates insufficient voltage to power advanced devices, and the need for frequent battery recharging or replacement, compromising portability and functionality.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of boost circuitry powered by solar cells or batteries to regulate and boost the generated power, along with reconfigurable solar cell connections in series and series/parallel configurations to ensure consistent voltage and power delivery, even when partially obstructed, allowing for automatic switching to maximize energy harvesting and battery charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If solar cells are used to power portable electronic devices, then the device can operate without external power sources, but the voltage generated by the solar cells is insufficient to power advanced devices with higher power demands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of solar cell connections, switching between series and parallel configurations based on operational needs. The system automatically adjusts the electrical configuration to optimize voltage output for different power demands, resolving the contradiction between portability and sufficient power generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the electrical parameters of the solar cell array by reconfiguring connections between cells. By altering the series/parallel arrangement, the system dynamically adjusts voltage and current output parameters to match the power requirements of different device states, enabling both portable operation and sufficient power delivery.
2Power
If the number of solar cells is increased to generate sufficient voltage, then power output increases, but the device size and weight increase, compromising portability
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a fixed large array of solar cells, the patent employs a smaller number of cells that can be dynamically reconfigured. This dynamic approach allows the system to achieve high voltage output when needed (series configuration) while maintaining a compact form factor, thus resolving the contradiction between power output and device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar cell array serves multiple functions through reconfiguration: it can operate in series mode for high voltage requirements and in parallel mode for higher current demands. This multi-functionality allows a smaller number of cells to replace what would otherwise require a larger array, maintaining portability while ensuring sufficient power generation.
3Power
If solar cells are connected in series configuration to increase voltage, then power output increases, but the system becomes sensitive to partial obstructions which can reduce power generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between series and parallel configurations in response to environmental conditions. When partial obstruction is detected or anticipated, the system can switch to parallel configuration, which maintains reliability by allowing current to flow through alternative paths, thus resolving the contradiction between voltage output and resistance to partial obstructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the electrical configuration parameters based on operational conditions. By monitoring performance and adjusting the series/parallel ratio, the system optimizes both voltage output and resistance to partial obstructions, achieving high power generation while maintaining reliability under varying environmental conditions.
4Duration of action of moving object
If battery capacity is increased to extend runtime, then run time increases, but the device becomes heavier and less portable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the solar cells to serve as a self-charging mechanism for the battery. By continuously harvesting solar energy and storing it in the battery, the system extends runtime without requiring a larger battery capacity, thus resolving the contradiction between runtime duration and device weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the solar power generation system with the battery charging system. The solar cells and battery work together as an integrated power management system, where solar energy continuously replenishes the battery, effectively extending runtime without increasing battery size or device weight.
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 enables portable electronic devices to maintain power supply and functionality by generating a constant preset voltage and startup voltage, extending battery life through efficient energy management and reconfiguration of solar cells, reducing the need for frequent recharging or battery replacement.
Implementation Method 1
The solar cells can generate electrical power in response to being exposed to light energy
Data Source
AI summary
This is directed to methods, systems, and apparatuses for implementing circuitry that can be used to control multiple solar cells to generate power for a portable electronic device. For example, in response to determining that one or more of the solar cells is generating a reduce voltage output (e.g., due to a partial obstruction of one or more of the solar cells), the connections among the solar cells can be configured to generate a constant preset voltage, as long as a subset of the solar cells is operating. The voltage generated by the solar cells can then be boosted to a value suitable for powering the portable electronic device and/or any of its individual components. As another example, the connections among the solar cells can be configured to generate a startup voltage to directly power the portable electronic device and/or any of its components.