Solar-Powered Wireless Module with Daylight Intensity Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication modules for daylight illumination control are limited by battery-powered designs, which restrict application due to lifetime, size, weight, and pollution concerns, and lack efficient integration with optical sensing for optimal daylight utilization in commercial buildings.

Innovation Solution

A solar-powered wireless communication module using a solar cell module as both an optical sensor and power supply, with a micro control unit and wireless communication unit to transmit daylight intensity data, optimizing output power and enabling efficient daylight-based illumination control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If battery-powered wireless communication modules are used, then wireless data transmission capability is achieved, but lifetime, size, weight, and pollution problems occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewireless communication capabilityVSAvoidbattery lifetime
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The solar cell module serves dual functions: as an optical sensor for measuring sunlight intensity and as a power supply for the wireless communication module. This eliminates the need for separate batteries while enabling continuous operation and data transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses the available sunlight to simultaneously power the wireless communication module and provide measurement data. The solar cell module harvests energy from the environment it is measuring, creating a self-sustaining system that eliminates battery replacement needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Duration of action of stationary object

If solar cell module is used as both optical sensor and power supply, then battery limitations are eliminated and continuous operation is achieved, but control of output current to maximize power output is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontinuous operation capabilityVSAvoidpower optimization control
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The micro control unit continuously monitors the electrical characteristics of the solar cell module and adjusts the operating point to extract maximum power. This feedback control ensures optimal performance varying with sunlight conditions while maintaining continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the operating parameters of the solar cell module based on varying sunlight intensity. By changing the electrical operating point according to environmental conditions, the system maximizes power extraction across different lighting conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 allows for continuous data transmission without battery limitations, reduces power consumption, and maintains illumination quality by utilizing solar energy effectively, lowering electricity bills and enhancing application flexibility.

Implementation Method 1

a solar cell module, capable of converting solar energy into electricity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

The maximum output power of a solar cell module varies with the change of sunlight intensity... the solar cell module does not only provide electricity but also function as a sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical sensing: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS8653428B2Solar-powered wireless communication module with daylight intensity measurement
Publication Date: 2014.02.18 IND TECH RES INST
  • US8653428B2 patent drawing
  • US8653428B2 patent drawing
  • US8653428B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a solar-powered wireless communication module with daylight intensity measurement, which comprises: a solar cell module, capable of converting solar energy into electricity; a Microcontroller Unit (MCU), coupled to the solar cell module for detecting and outputting values regarding the voltage and the current of the electricity converted from the solar cell module; and a wireless communication unit, powered by the electricity from the solar cell module and coupled to the MCU for transmitting values outputted from the MCU to a control end.