Convertible Solar Backpack Cover for Versatile Outdoor Charging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing backpacks with integrated solar charging assemblies lack versatility and convenience, as they are not easily convertible into different forms and may not be compatible with existing backpacks, making it difficult to charge devices during outdoor activities without carrying heavy batteries or finding power sources.

Innovation Solution

A convertible waterproof backpack cover with integrated solar panels, a voltage converter, and a method for attaching solar panels to fabric, allowing the backpack to convert into multiple forms while maintaining solar charging functionality, including a stand-alone bag and rucksack, and providing a durable and lightweight design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a backpack with integrated solar charging assembly is designed, then solar charging function is provided, but versatility and adaptability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesolar charging functionVSAvoidconvertibility to different forms
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The solar charging assembly is segmented into a separate detachable cover that can be removed and attached to different backpacks. The cover includes fasteners that can be detached and reattached, allowing the solar charging function to be separated from any specific backpack structure, thereby enabling versatility while maintaining the charging capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The backpack cover is designed with universal fastening mechanisms that can attach to various backpack types. The cover can function as both a protective cover and a standalone bag with solar charging capability, providing multiple functions including protection, charging, and portability across different usage scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Use of energy by moving object

If heavy supplemental charging batteries are carried, then power availability is improved, but weight increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower availability for chargingVSAvoidweight of charging equipment
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses solar energy from the environment to charge devices directly, eliminating the need to carry heavy supplemental batteries. The solar panels on the backpack cover convert sunlight into electrical energy, providing self-sufficient power generation that reduces weight while maintaining charging availability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If solar panels are integrated into the backpack cover, then solar charging capability is provided, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesolar charging capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The solar panels are integrated into a separate detachable cover rather than being permanently built into the backpack structure. This segmentation allows the solar charging component to be manufactured independently and attached to the cover, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining full solar charging capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 solution provides a versatile and convenient solar charging solution that can be used with various backpacks, allowing users to charge devices efficiently during outdoor activities without the need for heavy batteries, while also offering protection from the elements and adjustable configurations for different usage scenarios.

Implementation Method 1

The at least one solar panel is integrated into the front of the shell and configured to convert solar energy received by the solar panel to electricity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSolar energy conversion: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

The voltage converter is electrically connected to the at least one solar panel and capable of converting the voltage of the electricity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVoltage conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

applying heat to weld the attachment section of a solar panel and the edge of the piece of fabric

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat welding: Welding

Data Source

PatentUS20240057748A1Backpack cover
Publication Date: 2024.02.22 HAINES DANIEL R
  • US20240057748A1 patent drawing
  • US20240057748A1 patent drawing
  • US20240057748A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A backpack cover including (i) a shell having an opening and (ii) a band surrounding the perimeter and capable of securing the shell on a backpack. The backpack cover may be convertible and further include at least one pair of fasteners being capable of having a shoulder strap attached thereto and a zipper including a first set of teeth and a second set of teeth configured to engage with each other and close the opening. The backpack cover may also further include at least one solar panel and an output electrically connected, via a voltage converter to the solar panel.