Solar Panel Selection for Motorized Window Shades
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar-powered devices such as roller shutters and windows face challenges in areas with limited solar energy, as the battery may not be sufficiently charged to power the motorized functions, and alternative energy sources like pre-charged batteries or additional solar panels are either costly or require maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A method for selecting a solar panel by applying a test voltage and measuring the induced current to determine its electrical production capacity under low light conditions, ensuring it meets the required energy needs for motorized functions, which involves choosing a candidate solar panel, applying a test voltage, measuring the current, and comparing it to a test reference to select suitable panels for production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard solar panels are used in areas with limited solar energy, then production costs are reduced, but the battery cannot be sufficiently charged to power motorized functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the solar panel by applying different test voltages and measuring the resulting current at various light intensities. This allows characterization of the solar panel's electrical production capacity under different operating conditions, enabling selection of panels that meet minimum energy requirements even in low-light environments
2Reliability
If additional solar panels or pre-charged batteries are provided to ensure sufficient energy, then energy reliability is improved, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables each solar panel to serve itself through automated electrical characterization. By measuring current response to applied voltages at different light intensities, the system automatically determines whether each panel meets the required energy production threshold, eliminating the need for manual testing or overspecifying panels
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the measured electrical current is compared against reference values that correspond to minimum energy requirements. This feedback loop allows automatic acceptance or rejection of solar panels based on their actual performance characteristics, ensuring reliable energy supply without unnecessary cost increases
3Reliability
If solar panels are selected without electrical characterization, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but energy production capacity under low light conditions cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or manual testing methods with electrical measurement techniques. By applying electrical voltages and measuring current responses, the system efficiently characterizes solar panel performance without requiring physical stress tests or complex mechanical setups
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary electrical characterization of solar panels during the manufacturing or selection process. By measuring current at different light intensities before installation, the system ensures that only panels meeting minimum energy production criteria are selected, preventing energy deficiency issues before they occur
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
Enables the production of motor-operated devices that can perform their functions using energy stored by solar panels, even in low light conditions, ensuring reliable operation without the need for additional energy sources or increased production costs.
Implementation Method 1
The solar panel (104) for charging the rechargeable electric storage unit (103)
Implementation Method 2
applying a test voltage to the candidate solar panel, measuring an electrical current flowing through the candidate solar panel, where the current is induced by the test voltage
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for producing solar powered screening devices (192) or windows (191) which comprise a motor for operating the device. The motor is powered via a battery and the battery is charged by a solar panel (104). In order to ensure that the solar panel is capable of producing sufficient energy, particularly when the screening device or window is installed at a location where the available solar energy is low, the solar panel is selected according to a test procedure. According to the test procedure at test voltage is applied to the solar panel and the resulting current is compared with the reference in order to find solar panels having sufficient conversion efficiency. The amplitude of the measured current depends on the efficiency, particularly in low light conditions.