Further Optimization of Solar Electronic Yarns for Developing Large, Stretchable Knitted Textile Solar Panels

Energy harvesting methodologies provide an efficient solution for powering portable and wearable electronic devices, with solar energy being one of the most promising sources. Solar energy harvesting stands out as it offers a significant power density, making it a highly effective alternative to traditional batteries. Integrating solar energy technology into textiles has several advantages, including improving the efficiency of wearable devices and enhancing the system's sustainability. This study advances prior research on incorporating solar cells into electronic yarns to create solar textile. A solar electronic yarn sees miniature solar cells soldered onto thin Litz wires in parallel, components encapsulated within a discrete, resin micro-pod, and finally, the cells and wires are covered in a textile braid. This work explores improving current solar E-yarns and their textile integration. The current research presents a significant step in optimising the mold used for the encapsulation process. This research details these improvements, demonstrating their impact on the overall performance and efficiency of the system. Finally, with these improvements, a prototype knitted solar textile, which is foldable, drapeable, breathable, and stretchable was crafted and underwent testing under direct sunlight.