Vehicle Solar Panel Layout for Extended EV Range Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicle owners face inconvenience and increased costs due to frequent charging needs, especially in areas without charging infrastructure, and long trips require frequent stops for recharging, disrupting daily routines and increasing electricity costs.
Innovation Solution
Integration of solar panels on electric vehicles with weather-resistant photovoltaic cells that convert solar energy into electric power, a secondary battery for storing excess energy, and a charge controller to prevent overcharging, allowing vehicles to travel longer distances without frequent charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If solar panels are integrated on the electric vehicle exterior, then the vehicle can travel longer distances without charging, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the solar charging system: photovoltaic cells for energy generation, secondary batteries for energy storage, and charge controllers for power management are integrated together on the vehicle exterior, creating a unified solar recharging system that extends driving range without requiring frequent stops at charging stations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces secondary batteries as intermediary energy storage devices between the solar panels and the main vehicle battery. These secondary batteries store excess solar energy and provide supplemental power to the motor, acting as a buffer that manages the intermittent nature of solar power generation while extending the vehicle's operating range
2Use of energy by moving object
If solar panels are positioned on the vehicle exterior, then solar energy conversion is maximized, but the vehicle exterior surface area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from using only the horizontal roof surface to utilizing vertical exterior surfaces of the vehicle body for solar panel placement. By positioning photovoltaic cells on vertical sides and angled surfaces, the system captures solar energy from multiple directions and dimensions, maximizing energy conversion while preserving horizontal surface area for aerodynamic and aesthetic purposes
3Use of energy by moving object
If photovoltaic cells are exposed on the exterior, then solar energy absorption is maximized, but the vehicle becomes more susceptible to weather damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs transparent protective coverings or films over the photovoltaic cells mounted on the vehicle exterior. These protective layers shield the sensitive solar cells from weather elements such as rain, snow, and UV exposure while maintaining their ability to absorb sunlight and convert it to electrical energy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent describes photovoltaic cells that are inherently designed to withstand outdoor environmental conditions, with built-in resistance to weathering, moisture, and temperature variations. The cells are engineered to maintain their energy conversion efficiency while exposed to the elements, reducing the need for additional protective measures
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 electric vehicles to travel longer distances and reduce charging frequency, providing a sustainable and cost-effective solution by harnessing solar energy for battery recharging, reducing the need for frequent stops and lowering electricity costs.
Implementation Method 1
each of the solar panels includes a plurality of weather resistant photovoltaic cells configured to absorb solar energy and convert it into electric power
Data Source
AI summary
An electric vehicle solar charging system for recharging the vehicle's main battery using solar energy. The system includes multiple solar panels covered with tempered curved plastic or glass covering the solar panels for protection from physical damage and weather elements wherein each solar panel is connected to a battery charge controller that regulates the amount of current and voltage sent to the integrated battery(s), preventing overcharging, or undercharging of the integrated battery(s). In some embodiments, the system also includes a secondary battery that can be used to provide power to the main battery when solar energy is insufficient. The system can be integrated or retrofitted in an electric vehicle. The solar panels are recessed about ½″ below the car exterior and positioned at an angle that closely follows the angle of the exterior surface of the vehicle.