Alternative power for a portable computer via solar cells
First Claim
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1. A method of generating an electrical energy within a portable computer, the method comprising the acts of:
- illuminating a light source within the portable computer; and
converting energy from the light source into electrical energy.
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Abstract
A system for prolonging the operational life of a battery-powered laptop or notebook computer. Solar cells are incorporated into the chassis or display screen of a notebook computer so that the solar cells can provide power to any component of the notebook computer and/or help with the charging, powering, and/or regulation of a battery used as a power source. In one embodiment, solar cells are mounted near the light source so that unused light energy from the light source can be captured.
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Citations
16 Claims
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1. A method of generating an electrical energy within a portable computer, the method comprising the acts of:
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illuminating a light source within the portable computer; and converting energy from the light source into electrical energy. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4)
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5. A method of using electrical energy within a portable computer that uses a light source located within the portable computer for illuminating the display screen, the method comprising the acts of:
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placing solar cells in a position within the portable computer to capture light from the light source; illuminating the light source; and converting energy from the light source into electrical energy. - View Dependent Claims (6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
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12. A method of constructing a display panel assembly comprising the acts of:
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positioning a display screen over a lightpipe so that light in the lightpipe is delivered to the display screen; positioning a light source adjacent to the lightpipe so that the lightpipe is illuminated when the light source emits light; disposing solar cells in the display panel assembly such that the solar cells may receive the light; and housing the light source, the light pipe, and the display screen in the display panel assembly. - View Dependent Claims (13, 14, 15, 16)
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Specification