Solar Motion Sensor for Handbag Illumination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing motion sensing systems for activating lights or alerting mechanisms in bags do not efficiently utilize solar power and fail to provide controlled illumination based on motion detection within the bag.

Innovation Solution

A solar-powered motion sensing system integrated into a bag, comprising a motion sensor, timing circuit, light source, and solar cell, which activates and controls the light source upon motion detection, with a switch for power management, allowing for efficient and controlled illumination using Surface-Mount Technology (SMT) components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a motion sensing system with light source is integrated into a bag, then the ability to detect and illuminate upon motion is improved, but the weight and size of the bag increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemotion detection and illumination functionalityVSAvoidbag weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The solar cell enables the system to recharge itself by converting sunlight into electrical energy, eliminating the need for external power sources or frequent battery replacements. This self-sustaining power mechanism reduces overall system weight while maintaining reliable motion detection and illumination functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical switches and manual operation with automated motion sensing technology. The motion sensor detects movement and automatically triggers the light source, eliminating the need for mechanical components and reducing system weight while improving reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If a motion sensing system with light source is integrated into a bag, then the ability to detect and illuminate upon motion is improved, but the size of the bag increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemotion detection and illumination functionalityVSAvoidbag volume

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The solar cell is implemented as a thin film that can be integrated into the bag structure without significantly increasing volume. This thin-film approach allows the system to maintain functionality while minimizing impact on bag size and form factor.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple functions into integrated components: the solar cell serves both as a power source and can be integrated into the bag fabric, the motion sensor and light source are combined in a compact arrangement, and the timing circuit is integrated with minimal space requirements. This merging reduces overall system volume while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Duration of action of moving object

If continuous power supply is provided to the light source, then illumination availability is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveillumination durationVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of moving objectVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The timing circuit creates periodic illumination cycles rather than continuous operation. When motion is detected, the light source is activated for a predetermined time period, then automatically deactivated. This periodic action ensures illumination is available when needed while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The motion sensor provides feedback about the presence of motion to the control circuit, which then adjusts the illumination duration accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures the light source operates only when motion is detected, optimizing energy usage while maintaining illumination availability during relevant periods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 system provides reliable and energy-efficient activation of light sources within bags using solar power, ensuring prolonged functionality and minimal size and weight, while maintaining a discreet and unobtrusive design.

Implementation Method 1

a power source operatively connected to a solar cell, the solar cell is adapted to recharge the power source when the solar cell is exposed to direct sunlight or ambient light

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSolar energy conversion: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9642430B1Motion-sensing illuminating system with solar charging capacity for hand bag or purse

Publication Date: 2017.05.09 CARBAJAL JUAN N

AI summary

A solar powered motion sensing system that is integrated into a purse or other handbag including but not limited to a piece of luggage, a clutch purse, or the like. The solar powered motion sensing system activates a light upon detection of a hand or other motion entering the handbag.