Solar-Powered Helmet Attachment for Cold-Weather Device Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Helmets for outdoor activities face challenges with battery-powered devices failing due to remote cell service loss and reduced battery life in cold conditions, leading to safety risks from lack of power and communication in adverse weather.
Innovation Solution
A helmet attachment with a solar array, battery pack, and integrated charging module, along with a thermoelectric heater and LED lights, providing a self-sustaining power source and temperature control system that maintains device functionality and user safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a battery-powered device is used in remote outdoor areas, then the device can provide power and communication, but the battery life is reduced due to cold temperatures and continuous search for cell service
Solution Approach 1:
The solar array is positioned on the helmet attachment to charge the battery pack before power is needed, performing the energy storage action in advance during daylight hours. This preliminary charging action ensures the battery is ready for use in remote areas without requiring continuous connection to power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the solar array to automatically charge the battery pack during outdoor activities, making the power system self-sustaining. The helmet attachment serves itself by converting solar energy directly into stored electrical energy during use, eliminating the need for external charging infrastructure.
2Temperature
If a battery-powered heater is used to maintain temperature in cold conditions, then the wearer remains warm, but the battery is depleted faster
Solution Approach 1:
The solar array charges the battery pack during daylight hours before cold conditions set in, storing energy in advance for heating purposes. This preliminary energy storage allows the heater to operate during cold periods without immediately depleting the battery.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating element provides periodic or intermittent warmth rather than continuous operation, allowing the battery to be recharged by the solar array between heating cycles. This periodic action pattern balances thermal comfort with energy conservation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electronic devices are carried for outdoor activities, then communication and safety devices are available, but the weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (solar charging, battery storage, heating, and device power supply) into a single helmet attachment unit. This merging eliminates the need to carry separate solar chargers, battery packs, heaters, and device chargers, reducing overall weight while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The power and electronics module serves multiple purposes: it charges the wearer's electronic devices, powers the heating element, and provides illumination through LEDs. This multi-functional design replaces multiple specialized devices with one universal power system.
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 ensures reliable power and temperature regulation for outdoor users, extending battery life and maintaining device functionality even in remote or cold conditions, enhancing safety and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The power source comprises a solar array secured to a top of the shell, a battery pack secured within the cavity in the shell, and a charging module secured within the cavity in the shell and configured to charge the battery pack from current provided by the solar array
Implementation Method 2
a heater electrically coupled to the power source
Data Source
AI summary
A helmet is provided, comprising: a first shell having a convex top; a second shell having a concave bottom; a base having: a convex top affixed to the concave bottom of the shell; a concave bottom secured to the convex top of; and an air flow channel formed in the convex top of the base for guiding air through to an exit in the concave bottom of the base; a power and electronics module secured within a cavity in the first shell, comprising: a power source, comprising: a solar array secured; a battery pack; and a charging module configured to charge the battery pack from current provided by the solar array; and a 5 volt power output connector electrically coupled to the power source and configured for charging a small electronic device; and a heater electrically coupled to the power source.