Solar Paint Micro-Structures for Surface Energy Conversion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an efficient technique to convert various surfaces into photovoltaic panels that can effectively harness solar energy, as existing systems are limited in their ability to adapt different types of surfaces for solar energy conversion.
Innovation Solution
The technique involves using anisotropic micro-structures with absorption and charge selective regions, combined with a liquid-phase substance containing conduction-selective compounds, which are applied to a surface to create a photovoltaic surface capable of converting electromagnetic radiation into electrical energy. The micro-structures, such as anisotropic rod-shaped or three-dimensional configurations, include regions for absorption and charge separation, and the liquid substance hardens to attach the micro-structures to the surface, allowing for efficient charge collection using a specific electrode arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If preconfigured solar panels are used for solar energy harvesting, then energy conversion efficiency is improved, but adaptability to different surface types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel is divided into multiple independently adjustable segments or modules, each capable of being positioned and oriented separately. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to various surface geometries while maintaining optimal light exposure for each segment, thus preserving energy conversion efficiency across different installation surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar panel incorporates dynamic adjustment mechanisms that enable real-time repositioning and reorientation of panel sections. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to changing surface conditions and geometries, maintaining optimal energy conversion efficiency regardless of the underlying surface type.
2Productivity
If conventional solar panel installation methods are used, then energy harvesting capability is improved, but ease of installation on various surfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is designed with universal attachment mechanisms that can interface with multiple surface types (flat, curved, inclined, irregular). This multi-functional mounting capability enables easy installation while maintaining the energy harvesting performance required for different application scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The installation system incorporates adjustable parameters such as mounting angle, panel orientation, and attachment pressure that can be optimized for different surface types. These parameter adjustments enable easy adaptation to various surfaces while preserving energy harvesting effectiveness.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed solar panel configurations are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to different installation environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel is manufactured with pre-integrated adjustment mechanisms, mounting interfaces, and positioning features built into the base configuration. This preliminary incorporation of adaptability features maintains manufacturing simplicity while enabling the panel to adapt to various installation environments without requiring complex custom modifications.
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 approach enables the simple and effective conversion of non-conductive surfaces into solar energy harvesting surfaces, allowing for the generation of electrical energy from electromagnetic radiation, with the micro-structures and electrode arrangement optimizing charge collection and energy conversion efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The photoactive layer has a first inorganic material and a second inorganic material different from the first inorganic material, wherein the first and second inorganic materials exhibit a type II band offset energy profile
Implementation Method 2
The present invention relates to techniques for harvesting solar energy. The invention provides materials and system for operating selected surfaces as photo-voltaic surfaces
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B~2C
Figure 3~4
AI summary
An electrode arrangement and plurality of micro-structures are presented configured for use in conversion of a surface to photovoltaic cell. The electrode arrangements comprising at least two sets of conducting wires comprising wires with coatings configured to allow selective transmission of charge carriers. The wires are configured for charge collection from a medium in surroundings thereof. The sets of conducting wires are arranged in the form of a grid such that the different wires overlay about one another defining a region of charge collection, and are insulated from one another in said region of charge collection.