Remote Control Energy Recovery with Sequential Capacitor Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote control devices are inefficient in maximizing energy recovery from mechanical energy conversion to electrical energy, leading to suboptimal performance and reduced battery life in self-powered devices.
Innovation Solution
A remote control device with an energy generator and storage system featuring sequential control of capacitors and switches, utilizing a cam and cam follower mechanism to optimize energy accumulation by alternating voltage charging cycles, ensuring maximum energy storage and efficient power delivery to a wireless transmitter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a single capacitor is used to recover electrical energy from the generator, then the device structure is simple, but the energy recovery efficiency is insufficient and the storage capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage device is segmented into two distinct capacitors (first capacitor and second capacitor) with separate charging paths. The first capacitor charges during positive voltage alternation while the second capacitor charges during negative voltage alternation, allowing parallel energy recovery that increases overall efficiency without requiring a single complex high-capacity capacitor.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between charging the first capacitor and second capacitor based on the polarity of the voltage generated by the generator. The switching mechanism adapts to the alternating current characteristics, directing energy flow to the appropriate capacitor during each half-cycle, thereby maximizing energy capture from both positive and negative voltage alternations.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the capacitor charges continuously during both positive and negative voltage alternations, then the charging time is extended, but the capacitor becomes saturated rapidly reducing operational duration
Solution Approach 1:
The charging process is divided into periodic cycles corresponding to the positive and negative voltage alternations. During each positive alternation, the first capacitor charges while the second discharges to maintain voltage balance. During each negative alternation, the roles reverse. This periodic charging-discharging cycle prevents any single capacitor from becoming saturated, extending the operational duration while maintaining efficient energy capture during each cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system recovers energy by utilizing the discharge of one capacitor to charge the other during voltage alternations. When the first capacitor charges during positive alternation, the second capacitor discharges to supply the transmitter. This reciprocal charging and discharging ensures continuous energy availability without saturation, as each capacitor alternates between storing and releasing energy.
3Loss of energy
If sequential switching between capacitors is implemented, then energy storage optimization is achieved, but the control mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching mechanism is designed to be self-regulating based on the voltage polarity from the generator. The circuit automatically directs charging current to the appropriate capacitor and activates the corresponding discharge path without requiring external control signals or complex electronic switching circuits. The mechanical or magnetic coupling between the generator motion and the switching elements creates an automatic sequential operation that optimizes energy storage while minimizing control complexity.
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 device effectively recovers and stores electrical energy generated by mechanical movement, enhancing the autonomy and reliability of self-powered remote control systems by optimizing energy storage and preventing rapid saturation of storage means.
Implementation Method 1
The generator can for example be of the electromagnetic induction type
Implementation Method 2
These are for example wireless switches in which pressing the button causes the actuation of the generator and the generation of an electric current. The generator can for example be of the electromagnetic induction type or of the piezoelectric type.
Data Source
Figure 1A~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~8C
AI summary
The device has an electrical energy accumulation device comprising a capacitor (C1) connected to energy generating terminals i.e. electromagnetic or piezoelectric induction type energy generators (1), and a switch (S1) for controlling charge/discharge of the capacitor. The electrical energy accumulation device comprises another capacitor (C2) connected to the former capacitor, and another switch (S2) controlling charging /discharging of the latter capacitor. A sequential control unit successively controls the switches.