There are currently no international norms which define a method for characterizing photovoltaic solar cells for indoor applications. The current standard test conditions are not relevant indoors. By performing efficiency simulations based on the quantum efficiency of typical solar cells and the light spectra of typical artificial light sources, we are able to propose the first step for developing a standard by determining which light sources are relevant for indoor PV characterization and which are not or are redundant. Our simulations lead us to conclude that indoor light sources can be divided into three different categories. For the characterization of photovoltaic solar cells in indoor environments, we propose that solar cells be measured under one light source from each group.

Wireless power transfer allows the transfer of energy from a transmitter to a receiver without electrical connections. Compared to galvanic charging, it displays several advantages, including improved user experience, higher durability and better mobility. As a result, both consumer and industrial markets for wireless charging are growing rapidly. The main market share of wireless power is based on the principle of inductive power transfer, a technology based on coupled coils that transfer energy via varying magnetic fields. However, inductive charging has some disadvantages, such as high cost, heat dissipation, and bulky inductors. A promising alternative is capacitive wireless power transfer that utilizes a varying electric field as medium to transfer energy. Its wireless link consists of conductive plates. The purpose of this paper is to review the state of the art, link the theoretical concepts to practical cases and to indicate where further research is required to take next steps towards a marketable product. First, we describe the capacitive link via a coupling model. Next, we highlight the recent progress in plate topologies. Additionally, the most common compensation networks, necessary for achieving efficient power transfer, are reviewed. Finally, we discuss power electronic converter types to generate the electric field.

In order for organic bulk heterojunction solar cells to compete with the traditional inorganic cells, power conversion efficiencies of more than 10% are desirable. Nowadays, efficiencies up to 5% are reached and the question about the limits for the attainable efficiency of organic cells arises. In this paper, we study the efficiency potential of organic bulk heterojunction solar cells. We make realistic assumptions to predict efficiencies obtainable in the near future, and calculate the upper-limit. We study the influence of the difference between the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO)-energy levels of donor and acceptor, and the absorption window on the efficiency. Ideal material characteristics are obtained from these calculations, giving an idea how the ideal organic solar cell should look like. The calculations show that nowadays an efficiency of 5·8% for the single junction bulk heterojunction solar cell should be possible. Considering parameters which are credible to be achieved in the future, an organic solar cell of 15·2% is in reach, with an optimal bandgap of 1·5 eV for the absorber. We also consider the situation where both the n- and p-type materials are absorbers. All calculations are not only done for a single junction cell, but also for tandem solar cells. For a tandem structure of organic cells, we find in a realistic scenario a maximum attainable efficiency of 10·1% and an efficiency of 23·2% in an optimistic scenario with optimal bandgaps E_g1 = 1·7 eV and E_g2 = 1·1 eV. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Nowadays, near-field wireless power transfer is realized by inductive or capacitive coupling. Power transmission is respectively accomplished by a time-varying magnetic or electric field as medium. Recently, mixed or hybrid near-field wireless power transfer is being developed as a possible mean to increase the power density of the system by utilizing both the magnetic and the electric near-field. The fundamental basics of mixed coupling are well understood. However, the implications of the mixed coupling theory on wireless power transfer applications is not rigorously described. Moreover, no general description is available that allows for a detailed comparison between current hybrid systems, especially for a series topology of inductive and capacitive coupling. In this work, we analytically solve a general mixed wireless power transfer configuration with series topology. We determine the optimal load to maximize the amount of power transfer and calculate the maximum achievable output power. The analytical derivation is validated by numerical simulation in SPICE. Our solution provides insight in the mixed wireless link and can serve as a reference point to evaluate the performance of mixed systems with regard to power transfer.

Organic solar cells have narrow absorption windows, compared to the absorption band of inorganic semiconductors. A possible way to capture a wider band of the solar spectrum—and thus increasing the power conversion efficiency—is using more solar cells with different bandgaps in a row, i.e., a multi-junction solar cell. We calculate the ideal material characteristics (bandgap combinations and absorption windows) for an organic tandem and triple-junction solar cell, as well as their acceptable range. In this way, we give guidelines to organic material designers.