Solar roadway light adds thermoelectric energy harvesting

Kendall P. of Santa Ana, California, has developed a solar-powered roadway lighting system that combines solar panels, a rechargeable battery and thermoelectric energy harvesting to improve nighttime visibility. The patented design is aimed at roadsides, sidewalks and other outdoor areas where grid-powered lighting is limited or impractical.

Why it matters: - The device is designed to improve nighttime visibility on roadways where conventional lighting is limited, expensive to install or difficult to maintain. - The system aims to help drivers better identify lane boundaries, obstacles and hazardous areas. - The design could also be used in sidewalks, remote access routes and other outdoor locations that need supplemental illumination.

What happened: - Kendall P. of Santa Ana, California created Solar Powered Light for Motorists on Roadways, a solar-powered roadway lighting device. - The invention combines an LED lighting circuit, rechargeable battery, solar panels and a thermoelectric energy-harvesting module in a weather-resistant housing. - Kendall P. was issued a utility patent from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. - Kendall P. is working with InventionHome to sell or license the patent rights.

The details: - The system uses solar energy conversion as its primary power source. - The thermoelectric module is intended to convert temperature differences into electrical energy when sunlight is limited. - A built-in day/night sensor automatically turns on the LED lighting as ambient light decreases. - The sealed, impact-resistant housing is designed to protect internal components from moisture, debris, vibration and other roadside conditions. - The rechargeable battery stores generated energy for use when direct energy harvesting is unavailable. - The active LED output is meant to distinguish the device from passive reflectors, which rely on vehicle headlights. - The modular configuration is intended for deployment along roadways, sidewalks and other outdoor areas. - Key benefits listed for the system include dual-source energy harvesting, integrated LED illumination, rechargeable power storage, impact-resistant design and automatic day/night operation. - Inadequate roadway lighting can reduce a driver's ability to see lane boundaries, obstacles and road changes, especially at night and during bad weather. - Conventional street lighting in remote or underserved areas can require substantial electrical infrastructure, labor and maintenance.

Between the lines: - The invention is positioned as a lower-infrastructure alternative to wired lighting systems. - The thermoelectric feature suggests an effort to extend power generation beyond daylight hours, which could help in shaded or low-sunlight conditions. - The product's licensing pitch appears aimed at manufacturers or distributors that can refine and commercialize the design.

What's next: - InventionHome is seeking U.S.-based product manufacturers or distributors interested in developing and distributing the product. - Companies interested in the invention can contact InventionHome at member@inventionhome.com. - Inventors looking for help with patenting, marketing or licensing can request information at info@inventionhome.com or call 1-866-844-6512. - More information is available from InventionHome at the company website and inventor resources.