Solar powered dispenser system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Battery-operated hand cleaning fluid dispensers in hospitals often become inoperative due to untimely battery changes and require frequent battery replacements, leading to substantial costs and inefficiencies, especially since some dispensers are used more frequently than others.
Innovation Solution
A solar-powered system that includes a rechargeable battery powered by a solar generator, with a remote electrically powered light source directing light onto the solar panel, and a control mechanism that wirelessly communicates with the dispenser to manage the light source's operation based on the battery's status, ensuring continuous power and reducing the need for frequent battery replacements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If battery operated dispensers are used in locations without hardwired electrical supply, then the dispensers can be placed in convenient locations such as middle of lobbies, but the dispensers frequently become inoperative due to batteries not being changed timely and require frequent battery replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-powered operation through solar energy conversion. The solar panel on the dispenser converts ambient light into electrical energy to recharge the battery automatically, eliminating the need for manual battery replacement and ensuring continuous operation without human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the energy source parameter from finite chemical energy (batteries) to renewable solar energy. By incorporating a solar panel that converts light energy into electrical energy, the system transforms the power supply mode from periodic replacement to continuous regeneration, resolving the reliability issue.
2Use of energy by moving object
If remote electrically powered light sources are used to illuminate the solar panel, then energy generation can be optimized, but the system complexity increases with additional components and wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The light source serves dual functions: it provides illumination for the dispenser area and simultaneously powers the solar panel for energy generation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate lighting and power generation systems, reducing overall system complexity while optimizing energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the lighting function and power generation function into a unified arrangement. The electrically powered light source is positioned to simultaneously illuminate the dispenser and direct light onto the solar panel, combining two functions into one integrated system that reduces complexity.
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 a cost-effective and efficient solution by ensuring continuous operation of hand cleaning fluid dispensers through solar power, reducing labor costs associated with battery replacements and optimizing energy generation based on usage patterns.
Implementation Method 1
a solar element and the light emitter relatively juxtapositioned spaced from each other with the light emitted by the emitter directed toward and received by the solar element, the solar element configured to generate electrical power from the light emitted by the light emitter received by the solar element
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for dispensing hand cleaning fluid material including a dispenser with a rechargeable battery powered by a solar generator, a remote electrically powered light source spaced from the dispenser directing light onto the solar panel of the dispenser and a control mechanism controlling the operation of the light source in relation to the status and operation of the dispenser.