Attendees at this week’s Smart Automotive Surfaces exhibition in Novi will get a first glimpse of a new solar layer technology that is attached to a vehicle surface. The solar layer provides additional power to the battery, whether a vehicle is parked or in motion.
Produced by Alta Devices in Sunnyvale, Calif., which holds world records for energy conversion efficiency, the new power system delivers what is considered to be the most efficient, thin, and flexible mobile power technology.
By converting light of any kind into electricity, Alta Devices “AnyLight” power technology extends the energy source of a system, and in many cases, completely cuts the traditional power cord.
AnyLight can be completely integrated across multiple systems, including automotive, unmanned systems, satellites, consumer electronics, sensors, or anywhere size, weight, and mobility matter.
The technology will be introduced Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 9:25 a.m. by Aarohi Vijh, head of product systems at Alta Devices, at the Sheraton Detroit Novi Hotel. The show runs through Thursday.
The solar layer follows the curves of a vehicle so it doesn’t impact aerodynamics. It can be integrated into the hood, glass sunroof, or even the side panels of a car. It will augment EV batteries, integrate into the car’s design, and allow seamless charging without having to stop to plug-in.
In addition, the technology could be used to power auxiliary systems such as interior fans, seat heaters, lights, or other items. The solar technology is made up of thin gallium arsenide, which reaches record conversion efficiencies in a very thin and flexible form factor.
Lightweight, thin and flexible gallium-arsenide solar cells from Alta Devices enable designs that are not possible with other solar technologies.
Alta Devices is the world-record holder for single junction solar cell efficiency at 28.9 percent. For more information, visit http://www.altadevices.com.
