Solar Rechargeable Device with Concentrator and Segmented Power Inputs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for charging electronic devices rely on AC power sources, which are not always available, posing challenges for users in remote or field settings without access to sustainable electricity, and contribute to environmental and financial burdens.
Innovation Solution
A solar-powered rechargeable device equipped with a solar radiation collection portion, including a foldable solar panel, concentrator, and charge controller, which collects and concentrates solar radiation to charge a battery unit and directly or indirectly power electronic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If AC power source is used to charge battery, then charging reliability is improved, but availability in remote areas deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the charging function into two independent parts: AC power input and solar power input. Each can operate separately or together, allowing the device to function reliably in remote areas without AC power while maintaining the option to use AC power when available.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging device is designed to accept multiple power sources (AC power and solar power) through a universal charging interface. The charge controller manages both power sources, making the device adaptable to different environments whether AC power is available or not.
2Power
If solar panel area is increased to improve power generation, then device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the optical parameters by introducing a concentrator that focuses sunlight onto a smaller active area of the solar panel. This allows the same power generation from a reduced panel area, solving the contradiction between power output and device size.
Solution Approach 2:
A concentrator is introduced as an intermediary component between the solar panel and the light source. The concentrator gathers and focuses sunlight onto the solar panel, enabling high power generation from a compact panel area and reducing the overall device footprint.
3Power
If concentrator is added to concentrate solar radiation, then power generation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The concentrator is integrated with the solar panel assembly as a unified structure. The charge controller manages both AC and solar inputs, merging multiple functions into a single coordinated system that improves efficiency without proportionally increasing 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
Enables reliable and sustainable charging of electronic devices in remote areas without AC power, reducing environmental impact and financial costs by harnessing solar energy, allowing prolonged device usage without conventional power sources.
Implementation Method 1
a first solar panel to collect solar radiation
Implementation Method 2
a concentrator positioned a distance above the first solar panel to concentrate the solar radiation
Data Source
AI summary
A solar powered device comprising a solar radiation collection portion, wherein the solar radiation collection portion includes: a solar panel to collect solar radiation, a concentrator surrounding the solar panel to concentrate the solar radiation, and a charge controller coupled to the solar panel, a base portion, a plurality of legs, and a connection portion operably connecting the solar radiation collection portion to the base portion, the connection portion including a connection member having a first end and a second end is provided. Furthermore, an associated method is also provided.