Title: Eco-Brella: prototype development of the umbrella as harvester of solar and wind energies

Authors: Paul El Khoury; Yara Saadeh; Charbel Azzi; Samer Bu Jawdeh; Ramsey F. Hamade

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon

Abstract: The familiar umbrella has been redesigned for power harvesting from renewable energy sources resulting in the Eco-Brella. Several engineering technologies are utilised: aerodynamics for fin design, mechatronics for power management, materials for thermoelectric and solar film, CAD for the layout, and heat transfer for human comfort. The result is a sustainable design capable of harvesting both solar and wind energies which are converted into electric power for the benefit of the individual carrying it. In windy climates, the Eco-Brella rotates by virtue of a light turbine which causes rotation of a dynamometer. Solar film is shaped into an umbrella-like configuration with efficient power conversion (10%-20% depending on conditions). Generated power is channeled through power management system capable of 1) charging a rechargeable battery from which other batteries of portable electronic devices are charged and/or 2) providing personal thermal comfort by blowing cool (hot) air on hot (cold) days.

Keywords: umbrellas; Eco-Brella; sustainable energy; wind energy; wind power; solar energy; solar power; power harvesting; power management systems; thermal comfort; renewable energy; aerodynamics; fin design; mechatronics; CAD; layout design; transfer; human comfort; sustainable design; personal comfort; thermoelectrics; solar film.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSM.2014.065652

International Journal of Sustainable Manufacturing, 2014 Vol.3 No.3, pp.207 - 228

Published online: 15 Nov 2014 *

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