The solar vest puts a charging system into a garment, so portable electronics can be kept powered without access to mains electricity. It is a straightforward fusion of clothing and hardware, and the design is more considered than the idea first suggests.
How it works
The vest carries four detachable solar panels. Because they detach, they can be laid out in direct sun while the vest is worn elsewhere, which solves the obvious problem that the wearer’s back is not always facing the sun.
The panels charge a portable rechargeable battery, and the battery is what actually powers your devices. That separation matters: it means charging continues into storage rather than requiring the device to be connected while the sun is out.
The specification
- Four detachable solar panels, laminated to be fully waterproof so they work in any weather.
- A portable rechargeable battery with AC and USB power inputs and two DC outputs.
- Several charging adapters included.
- A weatherproof canvas shell, soft, durable and well stitched.
- Large storage pockets to hold devices while they charge.
The multiple input types are the sensible part of the design. Being able to charge the battery from mains or USB as well as from the sun means the system is useful before you reach the field, not only while you are in it.
What it can charge
Phones, digital cameras and similar portable electronics. The manufacturer also claimed the system could charge certain notebook laptops, which is a considerably higher power demand and worth verifying against a specific model rather than assuming.
Who it suits
The vest was aimed at two groups: people who carry a lot of devices, and professionals working in the field where mains power is not available for long stretches. The second is the stronger case, since field work is where the absence of a socket is a genuine operational problem rather than an inconvenience.
It was priced at US $140.
Frequently asked questions
Why are the solar panels detachable?
So they can be positioned in direct sun independently of where the wearer is standing or which way they are facing.
Does it work in the rain?
The panels are laminated to be waterproof and the vest is weatherproof, though charging output depends on available light.
Can it charge a laptop?
The manufacturer claimed some notebook laptops could be charged. Higher-draw machines should be checked against the battery’s output specification.
This report dates from 2009.
