Logitech chose this technology to power its new flagship product solar keyboard using dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) from EPFL that entered the public market.
Logitech has selected dye-sensitized solar cells born right here on campus. The technological choice of this world leader demonstrates both the maturity of this invention and that it is market-ready.
After several years developing its industrial application, these particularly innovated solar cells can be implanted into products such as portable tablets. This marks a new stage for Michael Graetzel’s discoveries from the Laboratory of Photonics and Interfaces.
A Bright Idea Solar Keyboard
Not only are the dye-sensitized solar cells relatively inexpensive, but also they are of particular interest for their finesse and efficiency: they work equally well in ambient light as in artificial light and can produce sufficient energy even without directly facing a light source.
These characteristics make them ideal for developing essential accessories to use in current nomadic technologies. The performance of these solar cells comes from an operating principal that mimics photosynthesis.
The light primes and maintains the transfer of electrons in the dye cell, producing a current. Just as with plants, this process is efficient even in a thin or transparent layer and it is therefore possible to combine the layers and insert them in small, portable products.
Logitech solar keyboard’s technical specifications:
Logitech’s Solar Keyboard Folio is among the first of its kind. Once the tablet is inserted into the keyboard, it works immediately and synchronizes with the iPod. It can use daylight and it’s a very easy keyboard.
It’s true that it doesn’t have the option for an AC adapter, which might make you doubt it.
However, a full charge can take up to two years if you only type for two hours a day, with the total charging time being up to six hours in room light and much faster directly from sunlight.
If you are the type that is delighted with eco gadgets, you will definitely like the idea that Logitech comes up with.
You can buy the product using the following link.
