Solar Powered Energy Module for Awning Wireless Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of powered awning assemblies on recreational vehicles and structures is costly and time-consuming due to the need for connecting electrical systems, and there is a desire for an environmentally friendly solution that reduces reliance on traditional power sources.
Innovation Solution
A solar-powered energy module that includes solar collectors, a rechargeable battery, a printed circuit board, a remote control, and a motor to drive the awning between retracted and extended positions, allowing for wireless operation and independent power without connecting to the vehicle's electrical system, with optional features like vibration and accelerometer sensors to prevent deployment during motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a powered awning assembly is installed by connecting to the vehicle's electrical system, then the awning can be operated with reliable power supply, but the installation time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power supply into two independent segments: a primary power source (vehicle electrical system) and a secondary power source (self-contained battery with solar collector). This segmentation allows the awning to operate reliably with full power when connected to the vehicle, while enabling standalone operation with reduced installation requirements when the vehicle power is unavailable.
Solution Approach 2:
A control module serves as an intermediary between the primary and secondary power sources, automatically managing power transitions and coordination. The control module receives power signals from either the vehicle electrical system or the battery, and controls the motor operation accordingly, ensuring seamless operation without user intervention.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If wiring is connected between the awning assembly and the vehicle's electrical system, then continuous power is available for the awning, but the installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary power system extracts the essential power supply function from the vehicle's electrical system by incorporating a self-contained battery and solar collector. This extraction allows the awning to operate independently without requiring complex wiring connections to the vehicle, reducing installation complexity while maintaining power availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery system serves multiple functions: it provides backup power when the vehicle is not connected, enables standalone installation options, and can charge from solar collectors to extend operational duration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for complex wiring while ensuring continuous power availability.
3Ease of manufacture
If a self-contained battery system is used to power the awning without vehicle connection, then installation time and cost are reduced, but the power supply duration is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Solar collectors are positioned to capture sunlight in advance and convert it to electrical energy, charging the battery during daytime hours. This preliminary energy accumulation ensures that sufficient power is stored in the battery to operate the awning during evening hours or periods when sunlight is unavailable, extending the power supply duration without requiring vehicle connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates solar collectors that automatically convert solar energy to electrical power, eliminating the need for external power sources or complex wiring to the vehicle. The battery charges itself from the solar collectors, providing a self-sufficient power solution that reduces installation complexity while extending operational duration through renewable energy capture.
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 solution significantly reduces installation time and cost by providing a self-sufficient, environmentally friendly power source for awning assemblies, eliminating the need for complex electrical connections and enabling easy operation of powered awnings without wiring the awning system to the vehicle's electrical system.
Implementation Method 1
a battery in electrical communication with at least one solar collector cell
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a solar powered energy module are provided wherein a solar powered module maybe added to a building or vehicle which is self-powered and need not be connected to the existing power system of the building or vehicle. The solar powered energy module may be utilized to power an awning or other desirable features.