3D Printed Packaging of Photovoltaic Cells for Energy Autonomous Embedded Sensors

Most robotic/prosthetic hands lack the ability to harvest energy, and as a result they rely on the batteries to provide the required energy for their operation. Recently solar cells have been explored to meet the energy requirements. However, most solar cells are brittle, and their chances of getting damaged during robotic operation are high. The work presented in this paper addresses this challenge through a transparent 3D printed package covering three photovoltaic cells. The package protects the cells from impact and prevents dust accumulation while ensuring minimal loss of light reaching the cells. The effect of the protective 3D printed cover on the performance of photovoltaic panel have been evaluated. This solar cell package is integrate on a 3D printed robotic hand to harvest energy from the environmental illumination and utilizes it to power the small peripheral electronic and sensing components on the hand.