Innovative Solar-powered Umbrella: Harnessing Sustainable Energy For Enhanced

Comfort And Convenience

A concept paper

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Subject ME 321: Methods of Research

Presented by:

Arnold Jansen V. Tabing

BSME 3B

Presented to:

ENGR. GINA A. LORENZO

Subject Instructor
I. Introduction

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in harnessing renewable energy

resources to meet the demands of modern society while mitigating the environmental impact of

conventional energy production methods. Solar power, in particular, stands out as a promising

solution due to its abundance, accessibility, and eco-friendly attributes. One area of focus has

been the development of solar-powered technologies, which utilize sunlight to generate

electricity for various applications. Among these innovations, solar-powered umbrellas have

emerged as a promising solution to provide shade and comfort in outdoor environments while

harnessing solar energy.

According to Breeze (2019), the total solar flux reaching the surface of the earth is

estimated to be 1.08×108 GW, and the total amount of energy reaching the surface of the earth

each year is 3,400,000 EJ. This is between 7000 and 8000 times the annual global primary

energy consumption. If 0.1% of this energy was converted into electricity with 10% efficiency, it

would provide an equivalent of around 10,000 GW of generating capacity. The global total is

around 6000 GW, which means that the world’s energy consumption is just less than 0.1% of

the total solar energy that we receive from the sun. It also means that there’s a lot of energy

coming from the sun and the amount of energy can cause a large amount of damage to the

environment and human health. In a solar technology perspective, the sun emits enormous

amounts of energy onto the surface of the Earth, yet a large percentage of this energy remains

untapped and is eventually wasted. This problem of wasted solar energy must be resolved in

order to promote sustainability and reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources and the

harmful effects of solar radiation. In this regard, solar-powered umbrellas show possibilities as
an efficient way to capture and make use of these plentiful solar resources while producing a

shaded space for comfortability and convenience. Solar-powered umbrellas can collect solar

energy and transform it into usable electricity by incorporating photovoltaic cells into their

canopies. This provides a sustainable source of electricity for a range of outdoor amenities and

activities.

The integration of Solar-powered Umbrellas aligns with several United Nations

Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs, contributing to global efforts to achieve a more

sustainable and equitable future. It promotes the use of clean and renewable energy, and

climate action, by reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating greenhouse gas

emissions. It also promotes Good Health and Well-Being By incorporating features such as

bladeless cooling fans, lighting, and charging stations, Solar-powered Umbrellas can create a

comfortable and convenient space while providing protection from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

There are already existing solar umbrellas in the market but these umbrellas can still be

improved and upgraded through innovation and in-depth analysis.

This research aims to explore the evolution, design principles, and practical implications

of the Solar-powered Umbrella as a pioneering application of sustainable energy in consumer

products through experimentation and comprehensive analysis of existing literature, market

trends, and case studies. Additionally, this research also attempts to provide valuable insights

into the potential of solar-powered umbrellas as a sustainable innovation and to contribute to a

deeper understanding of the role of solar technology in enhancing human comfort and

convenience in outdoor settings.

Design Proposal:

Figure 1.1. Rough Sketch of the Design

 Figure 1.2. Parts of the Designed Product

Parts:

1. Solar Cell Strips - A photovoltaic (PV) cell that is made from Amorphous silicon

solar cells. It is very thin and flexible. It is also very light and easy to carry. Although

it has an efficiency lower than polycrystalline solar panels, it can still generate

enough power for the features of the solar umbrella.

2. Canopy – It serves as a roof or shade.

3. Frame – It connects all the components. The wirings are inside of it.
 4. Cooling Fan – It provides a refreshing and comfortable space under the umbrella.

Powered by a DC motor attached to the frame of the umbrella.

5. Handle and Battery – The battery of the solar cells is inside the handle of the

umbrella. The purpose of this is to contain the generated power of the solar cells. It

adds convenience for the users as it provides power for the whole system.

6. Flashlight – It serves as an emergency or non-emergency lighting for better

convenience.

7. Charging Ports – It is attached to the handle of the umbrella and directly connected

to the battery of the solar cells.

All the components of this design are incorporated to provide comfort and convenience

to the users while utilizing the generated energy by solar technology. The design specification is

not yet final as it will still be tested and improved. The concept of the design proposal, including

the parts, is final throughout this research. The main objective of this research is to pioneer the

solar-powered umbrella as a solution to reduce the impact of traditional energy production and

mitigate the effects of global temperature rise while providing comfort and convenience to users.

Statement of the Problem

This research aims to lay the groundwork for comprehensive research and practical

solutions to harness sustainable energy for enhanced comfort and convenience in outdoor

environments by addressing several key factors and challenges associated with the

development, implementation, utilization, and role of solar-powered umbrellas, specifically;

1. Exploration of innovative design configurations, materials, and factors to enhance the

aesthetic, usability, and durability of solar-powered umbrellas.

1.1. What are the materials and design specifications of the proposed product?

2. Identification of Technical Challenges related to solar efficiency, energy storage

capacity, durability, and integration of additional features such as cooling systems,

lighting, and charging capabilities.

2.1. What are the possible technicalities associated with the design configuration and

components of the product?

3. Evaluation of the economic viability and effectiveness of deploying solar-powered

umbrellas compared to other existing products.

3.1 How effective is it compared to other existing products in terms of economic

viability?

3.2 How effective is the solar-powered umbrella in providing better comfort and

convenience?

4. Assessment for expected consumers’ preferences, and environmental impact.

4.1 What is the relationship between the proposed design and the user’s

convenience and comfortability?

4.2 What are the expectations of the target consumers in regard to the product’s

4.2.1 Design

4.2.2 Implications

4.2.3 Economic Value

RELATED RESEARCH LITERATURE

Solar Energy

Solar Energy is considered one of the most prominent sources of renewable and clean

energy that are available everywhere around the globe. It is also very convenient as it can be

converted into electricity to generate power. Solar energy technologies harness the energy of

solar irradiance to produce electricity. Currently, there are principally two technologies

employed, photovoltaics (PV) and concentrating solar power (CSP) technologies. PV generates

electricity using the conducting properties of certain chemicals most importantly silicon, through

the photoelectric effect. CSP makes use of reflectors to focus sunlight on a small area, in order

to generate steam that powers a thermal electric plant (see below for more details). In addition

to electricity generation, solar energy is employed to produce thermal energy (heating or

cooling, either through passive or active means), to meet direct lighting needs, and, potentially,

to produce fuels that might be used for transport and other purposes (Lange, 2013).

The demand for electricity grows year by year and the importance of renewable energy

for electricity generation is becoming more apparent. According to the latest International

Energy Outlook 2023 by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (2023), electricity

generation worldwide will increase 30% to 76% in 2050 relative to 2022. By 2050, zero-carbon

generating technologies like Solar renewables will supply electricity for about 54% to 67% of the

total demand. This indicates that the use of solar energy is very important especially in the

future since it has a large amount of energy that can be converted into electricity through solar

technology.

The global community is starting to shift towards the utilization of sustainable energy

sources such as solar energy and reducing the dependence on traditional fossil fuels as a
source of energy. Soon everything in the world would have the application of these renewable

energies as the main source of power. This transition towards sustainable energy presents a

spectrum of challenges and opportunities for the global economy (Lv, 2023). Due to this, many

innovative and sustainable products are being implemented around the world such as the

promising innovative solar-powered umbrella.

Integration of Solar-powered umbrella

By integrating sustainable solar technology into an umbrella and adding additional

features to utilize its purpose, it can create a space of enhanced convenience, comfortability,

and protection. A related research shows the integration and importance of a solar-energized

umbrella, the umbrella integrates renewable energy technology to power its functionalities, such

as a fan activated when the temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold that is 35ºC, a light

that activates during rainfall and dark, and a mobile charging facility. By utilizing solar panels,

the umbrella harnesses solar energy to charge an internal battery, enabling the operation of

these features. The fan provides a cooling effect to alleviate discomfort caused by high

temperatures, while the light ensures visibility and protection from rain. Additionally, the

umbrella includes a mobile charging facility, allowing street vendors to conveniently charge their

devices using renewable energy. This innovative solution enhances the working experience of

street vendors, promoting their well-being and productivity. By combining renewable energy and

smart features, the solar-energized smart umbrella for street vendors offers a sustainable and

efficient solution, contributing to a more comfortable and technologically advanced street

environment (Gayitri et al., 2023). By improving this technology, we can create a more

convenient innovation that can offer availability for all kind of customers or users.
 Solar-powered umbrella can offer sustainable development and promote environmental

conservation. Various studies have indicate that the integration or application of solar

technology have become a trend since it could reduce the harmful effect of carbon emission and

promote sustainability Technological advances have made solar energy systems more

affordable than ever before. Using photovoltaic (PV) systems could significantly reduce our

reliance on fossil fuels, and facilitate sustainable energy uses. Solar power utilities, such as self-

compacting disposal bins could be used to enhance waste management processes (Behi et al.,

2021). In addition to their environmental benefits, solar power smart umbrellas offer several

practical advantages. They can be used in a variety of outdoor settings, such as parks,

beaches, and outdoor events, to provide shade and protect people from harmful UV rays. They

can also be equipped with various features, such as built-in lighting, Wi-Fi, and charging ports

for electronic devices (Satish & Ganesh, 2023).

According to the Standalone PV Solar Umbrella designed by Kumar et al.(2014), A

solar-powered umbrella that consists of 8 individual flaps that are connected from one side to an

octagon center structure with solar panels fixed on the upper side of the flap can produce 9650

kWh in 3 days. According to the International Journal for Research in Applied Science &

Engineering Technology (IJRASET), n.d., the amount of power that can be distributed to run

small appliances, such as fan, light, and socket, depends on several factors, including the

capacity of the battery and the power requirements of the appliances. A 20-watt solar panel

generates 20 watts of power, which can be stored in a battery. If the battery is rated at 12 volts,

its capacity in amp-hours can be determined by dividing the power generated by the solar panel

(20 watts) by the voltage of the battery (12 volts), which gives a capacity of 1.67 amp-hours.

However, the actual capacity of the battery will depend on several factors, including its age,

temperature, and discharge rate. In general, it is recommended to use a battery with a capacity
that is at least two to three times greater than the power generated by the solar panel to ensure

that the battery can supply power for a reasonable length of time. The power requirements of a

fan, light, and socket will vary depending on the specific appliances. A small fan might require

15 watts, while a compact fluorescent light might require 5 watts and a socket might require 10

watts. If these appliances are all used simultaneously, they could require a total of 30 watts,

which would drain the battery in about 1 hour if the battery has a capacity of 1.67 amp-hours.

These means that the product should be tested and any modifications should be made to

ensure the effectiveness of the product.

With the ability to convert sunlight into electrical energy and store it in a rechargeable

battery, solar umbrellas are a practical and innovative way to enjoy your outdoor living areas

after dark. They are easy to use, low maintenance, and come in a variety of styles and designs,

making them a great addition to any patio, deck, or backyard. The solar powered umbrella is

designed to power the outdoor use of direct current electronic devices for replacing electrical

outlets based on the benefit of providing shade for the user. The solar umbrella has several

advantages as the base for the solar panels. It provides surface areas for mounting the solar

panels allowing for easy exposure to sunlight (Chao & Peng, 2016).

The main advantage of the solar-powered umbrella is that it provides comfortable and

protective shade for the users while generating usable energy. Apparently, the easiest way to

get shade from sunlight would be portable personal equipment. However, existing personal

gears, used by people, are inadequate to resolve all the present issues like heat exposure.

Thus, it is imperative to develop new equipment, like the concept of the proposed project, to

alleviate the hardships of outdoor workers. It could be expected that the proposed design of a
“Dual-purpose solar powered umbrella integrated with cooling fan and power bank” would assist

the workers in fighting heat-related miseries (Thankachan, 2019).

A solar-powered umbrella is very effective, especially at times where the heat waves are

at their peak. Heat waves often occur during sunny days in tropical regions during the summer

season, with temperatures sometimes reaching over 42 degrees Celsius. Because overheating

waves can cause heatstroke for human beings who work outside, umbrellas are usually used to

cut off sunshine to protect them. In the paper of Nurul et. al. (2021), an umbrella prototype is

designed, which can drive a fan to provide a cooling effect for persons who work outside in

tropical regions. The designed umbrella uses a solar cell attached to the above surface of the

umbrella to convert solar energy into electricity, which is used to drive a fan or charge a battery.

Moreover, the battery can also drive the fan when sunshine intensity is weak, or provide a

charging port with 5 voltages for portable devices, such as mobile phones. The key component

to realize these functions is an electronic control module, which includes charging circuit and

discharging circuit. The former increases the output voltage from the solar cell to the desired

voltage to charge the battery; the latter can control electricity from the battery to drive the DC

motor fan, LED indicator, and charging port.

To provide a socio-economic solution it is important to look for a viable solution that can

be commonly used during rainy and sunny seasons. The authors of Design and Development of

Solar Umbrella Based on Peltier Effect (2019) proposed umbrella actively cools the ambiance of

the user whereas other products of a similar kind in the market just furnish the user with airflow

without any cooling impact. This umbrella would be especially helpful for people in tropical

countries like India with high variations in temperature and abundant sunlight cover. Featuring

quiet operation, the ultrathin thermoelectric cooler module which is used in the proposed
umbrella is more affordable and provides needful solutions to the people making the system

less complex, with very less power consumption, small in size, and weight. The authors have

prototyped the system using commercially available Peltier plates. The measured experimental

results indicate that the system can produce air at 15.16°C in an ambient of 27°C.

Project Description

A solar powered-umbrella that harnesses solar energy to reduce the impact of traditional

energy production such as carbon emission that causes global warming and pollutions, while

providing better comfort and convenience in every activities under the soaring heat of the sun.

This product is also the best solution to promote sustainability and technological advancement.

With a unique approach to mitigating the rapid rise of the temperature of the Earth’s surface,

this innovative solar umbrella is the best viable solution.

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