Solar Compatibility Testing for Autonomous Home Automation Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users are hesitant to install electrically autonomous home automation devices powered by solar energy due to uncertainty about sufficient sunlight at the installation location, which can lead to reduced energy production and device reliability.
Innovation Solution
A method for testing compatibility between the energy needs of an electrically autonomous home automation device and a predetermined location, involving data collection on position, solar radiation, and shading masks to estimate energy balance and confidence index, using a mobile or fixed terminal to determine if the device can operate correctly throughout the year.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a self-powered home automation device is installed in a location with potential shading obstacles, then the device can be installed without grid connection, but the photovoltaic module may not receive sufficient sunlight to guarantee proper operation throughout the year
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary shading analysis and solar radiation assessment at the installation location before the device is installed. By calculating the shading mask from surrounding obstacles and evaluating the expected energy production throughout the year, the system determines in advance whether the location is suitable for reliable operation, preventing installation in inadequate locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the device's own photovoltaic module characteristics and location data to self-assess its future performance. By inputting the device type and installation location, the system automatically calculates whether the expected solar energy input will meet the device's power requirements, enabling self-verification of installation suitability.
2Reliability
If a compatibility testing method is implemented to assess solar radiation and energy balance, then installation reliability can be validated, but the complexity of the installation process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual model of the installation scenario by copying the device specifications and location characteristics into a simulation environment. The system calculates shading masks and energy balances using computational models rather than physical testing, providing reliable compatibility assessment without complex physical prototypes or extensive field testing.
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 method allows users to assess the reliability of solar-powered home automation devices by evaluating the energy balance and confidence index, ensuring the device can meet energy demands and operate effectively, thereby alleviating installation concerns.
Implementation Method 1
The electrically autonomous home automation device (13) comprises a photovoltaic module (131)... the electrical energy storage element (132) being connected to the photovoltaic module (131) and intended to be charged from the electrical energy generated by the latter
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~6
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A method for testing compatibility between the energy needs of an electrically autonomous home-automation device and a predetermined location for a photovoltaic module comprising a step (Etp1) of selecting and storing an electrically autonomous home-automation device, a step (Etp2) of inputting and storing position data relative to the predetermined location, a step (Etp3) of defining and storing a shadow mask, a step (Etp5) of calculating the change in the amplitude of the solar radiation received at the predetermined location over the course of a year and a step (Etp6) of calculating an energy balance from the change in the amplitude of the solar radiation received at the predetermined location and the energy needs of the selected home-automation device.