Theory of Operation

SuryaDeep is in theory a miniature form of commercial solar power generation and distribution system. It essentially has the same theory of operation and mechanism which is similar to any system using solar power. There is a complex energy conversion taking place, as described below. Appropriate mechanisms for energy storage and control systems are also necessary. 

Multiple energy conversions are involved in its operation listed in sequence below: 

• solar energy (input to the solar panel)

• electrical energy (output of solar panel becoming the input to the battery)

• chemical energy (energy storage form within the battery)

• electric energy (output of battery to the LED lamp)

• light energy (LED lamp converts electric to light energy)

The availability of the source energy, solar light, is not often concurrent with the consumption need and desire. This makes in necessary to use a battery to store power. Furthermore, a battery is crucial because it can help manage and balance the demand for the power generated.  It also helps to store power for rainy days or when the weather is not suitable to develop solar energy. 

A small brain in the form of a control unit also needs to be added to compress the many inputs and outputs of energy described above. This control unit is needed for any energy generation and consumption and also acts as a system for controlling and monitoring the health of the system. 

The picture below is an explanatory block diagram of such a system with the components described above.

Solar panel: The workings of a solar panel have been discussed in detail here. They are responsible for converting solar energy to electrical energy and generating an electrical current in the system.

Battery: It is used to save the energy from the solar panel for later use. This saved energy can be used during the night. They provide a consistent power supply and can help use the system efficiently.

Solar  Charge Controller: It regulates the voltage and current between the solar panel, battery, and LED light. It prevents harm in the battery by ensuring it does not overcharge or discharge thus aiding in a longer lifespan and better safety while using the lamp. Learn about the circuit and working of the charge controller here. 

 DC LAMP: LED lights were used because they offer environmental benefits, being more energy efficient, as compared to incandescent and fluorescent lamps. Furthermore, they have longer life expediencies and consume less power than other light sources. Thus they were the ideal choice for a solar lamp.