Ambient Energy Conversion System

To address the Armys need for a self-replenishing power technology for protective eyewear with active lenses, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Ambient Energy Conversion (AEC) system, which is based on integration of three energy harvesting sources: a photovoltaic structure, a thermoelectric generator, and a 3D motion energy harvester. Operation of these sources is supervised by a miniature power management unit. All components are integrated into the eyewear platform. The innovative photovoltaic structure is an inherent component of the eyewear lens and converts light energy in the ultraviolet and infrared spectra into electric power, preserving>90% of visible light transmission. The thermoelectric generator and 3D motion energy harvester replenish eyewear power both day and night. Therefore, this AEC system offers over 72 hr of operation with electrochromic-based protective eyewear, or over 300 days using POC's liquid crystal lenses, without external charge, while weighing