Bridging the gap for apartment residences in the renewable energy market
Using water as a source of energy
Rainfall was an option to use to generate electricity by making use of a water turbine however, despite frequent rainfall in Ireland the amount is relatively low, leading to insufficient electrical production. Thus is option was dismissed.
Using wind as a source of energy
Wind could be used to generate electricity by making use of a wind turbine however this option was dismissed due to noise levels exceeding 43 decibels, violating building regulations.
Using solar energy as a source
Electricity can be generated from the sun's energy using solar panels. This method of generation was more reliable compared to the other two and is consistently available. Additionally, solar cells operate based on the brightness of the environment and not just direct sunlight, allowing users with non-south-facing balconies to also benefit from the product.
Form Exploration
After deciding on the renewable energy source to use, I began ideating design forms while ensuring I abide by all the restraints I had from both the building regulations and the user's needs. I had to also ensure the product could generate a substantial amount of electricity which the users could use.
User Feedback
After gathering user feedback, the following points were raised:
• The product needs to have good stability
• It shouldn't stick out too far as it will cast shadows for the residents below
• Users wanted an organic shaped
Refined Concepts
Refined concept 1: Solar Dock
The concept utilises a traditional solar panel that’s split into 2 parts creating a front and back panel. The retractable back panel enables users to lower it while on the balcony to enjoy the view, and then retract it before leaving. The solar panels sit on a frame that is designed to keep the panels at the optimal angle for maximum efficiency.
Drawback
The primary concern with this design was its visual appeal, as there was a significant contrast between the organic frame and the appearance of the solar panels. Moreover, the product's large size occupied considerable space, rendering it unsuitable for balconies with shorter railings. Additionally, its weight and bulkiness posed safety concerns.
Refined concept 2: Circle Array
For this concept, I adopted a different approach by redesigning the frame around the solar cells to improve the design's visual appeal. While this adjustment reduces the overall electricity generation capacity, the modular design enables users to install multiple units on their railing to compensate for the decrease in energy production.
Drawback
However, there were a few drawbacks to this design. It had weak structural support, was challenging to manufacture, and had too much-wasted space around the solar frame. Additionally, disassembling it would be challenging reducing its portability aspect.
Final Design: Green Dock
Green Dock sits on the balcony railings while generating electricity using solar energy. Its design helps seamlessly fit into the balcony environment.
Its modular design allows for compatibility with various balcony types, accommodating users with different railing lengths.
It prioritizes sustainability by using minimal materials without compromising structural integrity, and is designed for both ease of manufacturing and longevity
Materials & Manufacturing
Power House
The Power House stores the generated electricity in its battery and is placed in the house ideally in front of the balcony window. The Power House accommodates four power pods and is ergonomically designed to reduce bending when accessing them. It uses the power mole which transfers electricity through the balcony window using the process of induction.
The receiver of the power mole is placed on the back side of the Power House. This is then connected to the battery by a wire.
Section view of Power House
Pogo pins in Power House
Pogo Pin
Electricity is transferred to the Power Pods using pogo pins. They offer a dependable and consistent electrical connection, designed for long-term durability. These pins facilitate easy docking for charging, eliminating the need for precise alignment, which enhances user convenience. Their small size ensures they maintain the visual appeal of the product without the need of protruding connectors or ports.
Materials & Manufacturing
Power Pod
The Power Pod is a product that the user can use to charge their device at their workstations. It stores electricity transferred from the Power House. The handle doubles as a stand when placed on a surface. It is equipped with three USB ports and one socket. LED lights present in the product notify the user when the battery level is low.
The other side of the pogo pin is placed under the Power Pod.
Materials & Manufacturing
CMF Boards
Story Board
After installing the Green Dock on the balcony railing and connecting the Power Mole to the Power House, red LED lights illuminate on the Power House, indicating a successful connection. Over time, as the Green Dock generates electricity and stores enough energy in the Power Pods, the light next to each pod will change to green, indicating that the pod has finished charging.
The user can then remove the fully charged Power Pod and carry it to their workstation using the handle. Once at their workstation, they can easily rotate the handle of the Power Pod to convert it into a stand.
With the Power Pod transformed into a stand, users can conveniently connect their device and start using it. If the Power Pod's battery starts to run low, a red LED light alerts the user, prompting them to unplug their device and return the Power Pod to the Power House for recharging.
