Retractable Window Solar Module Cleaning Control for Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar cell modules installed along vehicle windows are susceptible to power generation efficiency reduction due to dirt or foreign matter adhering to the glass, which can reduce the power generation amount despite increased installation area.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a cleaning mechanism and a controller that determines the expansion and retraction of a flexible solar cell module, and operates the cleaning mechanism when a decrease in power generation is detected to remove dirt or foreign matter from the window surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the solar cell module is expanded along the window glass to increase installation area, then the power generation potential is improved, but the power generation efficiency decreases due to dirt or foreign matter adhering to the window glass
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning mechanism is activated before the solar cell module is expanded along the window glass to remove dirt and foreign matter in advance. This preliminary cleaning action ensures that when the solar cell is positioned against the glass, the glass surface is already clean, preventing efficiency loss from contamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device monitors the state of the window glass and the expansion status of the solar cell module, and automatically activates the cleaning mechanism when dirt or foreign matter is detected on the glass surface. This feedback-based control ensures the glass is clean before power generation begins, maintaining efficiency while utilizing the expanded installation area.
2Power
If the solar cell module is expanded along the window glass while the vehicle is parked, then the power generation amount is improved, but the visibility of driver and passengers may be compromised during traveling
Solution Approach 1:
The solar cell module is designed to be dynamically expandable and retractable. It expands along the window glass when the vehicle is parked to maximize power generation area, and retracts to a position that does not obstruct the driver's or passengers' view when the vehicle is traveling. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between power generation needs and visibility requirements.
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 device maintains power generation efficiency by ensuring the solar cell module is clean, increasing the generated electric power amount while securing the field of view during travel and acting as a sunshade during parking.
Implementation Method 1
a solar cell module configured to generate electric power by irradiation with sunlight
Data Source
AI summary
A control device for a vehicle, comprising: a cleaning mechanism for cleaning an outer surface of a window glass; and a flexible solar cell module capable of generating electricity by being irradiated with sunlight, wherein the solar cell module is deployed along an inner surface of the window glass, and the control device is capable of storing the solar cell module, the control device including a controller for controlling the deployment and storage of the solar cell module and the cleaning mechanism, wherein the controller includes an expansion determination unit for determining that the solar cell module is deployed, and a cleaning mechanism control unit for operating the cleaning mechanism so as to clean the outer surface of the window glass when it is determined that the solar cell module is deployed.