Roadway Solar Grid Layout for Distributed Energy Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar and wind power systems have limited market share due to isolated deployments, high installation costs, environmental concerns, and the need for individual investments, which hinder widespread adoption and efficient energy distribution.
Innovation Solution
A roadway system integrating solar and wind energy generation devices connected to a grid for mass electricity distribution, allowing for easy access, maintenance, and direct powering of homes and businesses, with vehicles equipped with portable energy-generating systems to contribute to the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If solar power systems are deployed in isolated locations (remote fields, desert environments), then land availability and sunlight exposure are improved, but infrastructure access and distribution efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the solar power distribution system into multiple distributed collection points along roadways rather than single remote installations. Solar panels are divided into modular units that can be independently installed on roadways, buildings, and vehicles, each connecting to the grid at its location. This segmentation allows sunlight collection to occur at numerous accessible points while maintaining infrastructure connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional ground-mounted solar farms to multi-dimensional deployment including roadway surfaces, building facades, and mobile vehicles. By utilizing vertical surfaces (building walls), horizontal surfaces (roadways), and mobile platforms (vehicles), the system captures sunlight across multiple spatial dimensions while maintaining proximity to infrastructure and load centers.
2Power
If large wind turbines are installed in remote areas, then power generation capacity is improved, but transportation cost and infrastructure development deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides wind power generation into multiple small-scale turbines distributed along roadways rather than single large turbines in remote locations. These smaller turbines can be transported via existing road infrastructure and connected to local grids, eliminating the need for expensive new transmission infrastructure while collectively providing significant power generation capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses existing roadway infrastructure as an intermediary platform to support wind turbine installation and power transmission. Roadways serve as both the support structure for turbines and the corridor for power distribution, leveraging existing infrastructure rather than requiring new transmission lines to remote locations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If solar panels are installed on individual vehicles, then mobile energy generation is improved, but individual investment cost and system complexity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal solar energy system where panels installed on vehicles, buildings, and roadways all connect to the same grid infrastructure. The system is designed to accept power from multiple sources and distribute to multiple loads, with standardized connection protocols that simplify integration regardless of installation location or scale.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables vehicles with solar panels to serve dual functions: generating their own power and contributing excess power to the grid. The system automatically manages power flow, allowing vehicles to charge themselves during daylight hours and potentially earn credits or revenue from excess generation, reducing the need for external infrastructure investment.
4Productivity
If solar power systems are deployed widely across roadways, then market share and energy distribution efficiency are improved, but installation cost and maintenance complexity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the solar installation into standardized modular units that can be mass-produced and quickly deployed along roadways. Each module is designed for simple installation on existing infrastructure, reducing labor costs and enabling rapid scaling. The modular design allows installations to be performed in sections along roadways rather than requiring large contiguous areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs standardized solar panel modules with uniform mounting systems and connection protocols across all installation locations. This homogeneity enables economies of scale in manufacturing and installation, simplifies maintenance procedures, and allows for rapid deployment along extensive roadway networks without requiring location-specific customization.
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 a scalable, efficient, and environmentally friendly clean energy infrastructure, potentially increasing solar's market share to double digits and providing stable power generation by leveraging existing roadways for energy harvesting and distribution.
Implementation Method 1
solar power is derived by photovoltaic systems
Data Source
AI summary
A roadway system for solar energy generation and distribution is presented. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the roadway system comprises a plurality of solar energy generating devices, one or more roads, and a roadway system electricity grid. The roadway system electricity grid electrically connects the plurality of solar energy generating devices, power conditions solar generated energy provided by the plurality of solar energy generating devices, and distributes the solar generated energy to entities, such as a utility grid or to a direct power user. As such, the present invention provides a cohesive system for gathering and generating energy from the sun, and distributing such energy.