We present the world’s first origami-inspired travel solar charger: The Sego Solar Charger, a sustainable and space-efficient power source for adventurers,  off-gridders, and preparing for the unexpected. Inspired by deployable space arrays, it is designed for optimal performance, durability, and portability.

Origami, the art of folding paper into intricate shapes and patterns, provides engineers with techniques to create ultra-compact, strong, stable, yet light and flexible structures, which is ideal for applications in space or medical devices. Origami is inspiring groundbreaking advancements in engineering and design.

Our patent-pending origami pattern is compact and space-efficient, with rapidly deployable synchronized panels, which makes it ideal for photovoltaic applications.

Inspiration from Space

We spent years researching alongside NASA’s engineers and understanding how they employ origami for deployable-space-based solar arrays that compactly stow for launch yet provide a large surface area when deployed in orbit and beyond. This experience inspired us to completely rethink its earth-based application.

Credit: Compliant Mechanism Research Group – Brigham Young University

Solar power gives you the versatility and independence to power your devices off the grid. Solar provides you with the reassurance of energy self-sufficiency, energy security, and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.

Connect multiple panels together for more power!

We designed the Sego Charger to withstand the punishing physical and environmental conditions you face during outdoor adventures and off-grid situations.

We built the sleek and transportable solar charger we want to rely on when camping, hiking, and preparing for the unexpected.

A modular connector box makes it easily compatible with any portable power bank, power station, and USB electronics.

Better than a traditional portable folding panel with the benefits of a rigid panel

The Sego Charger’s groundbreaking design combines the structural strengths of rigid permanent solar panels with the portability advantages of folding panels.

ENGINEERING AND DESIGN

We have completely redesigned the terrestrial solar module, creating a revolutionary architecture that maximizes space optimization, portability, compactness, and ruggedness with the durability and rigidness characteristic of permanent solar arrays.

SunPower Solar Cells

Efficiency: SunPower® solar cells are the leading photovoltaics on the market. These cells capture more sunlight than conventional monocrystalline cells because their grid-line electrical contacts are on the cell’s rear, making them more efficient at absorbing maximum sun.

Durability: SunPower cells are also durable. They incorporate a solid rear copper back that reduces fractures and resists cracks, preventing performance loss.

Performance: Unlike standard monocrystalline cells, SunPower cells utilize upgraded redundant electrical connections, resulting in more consistent power output in shading than normal monocrystalline cells, which can lose significant output or stop working altogether if a panel is partially covered.

Joints

Robust joints are crucial. They are vital for a stable, long-lasting panel that can fold and unfold thousands of times.

Sturdy

A folding panel with sturdy joints maintains stability and prevents the wobbling and flopping typical of portable panels. Robust joints distribute weight evenly and provide a solid connection between the components, ensuring a reliable and secure structure.

The strong joints enable a smooth folding mechanism and ensure the folding process remains fluid and effortless.

ETFE Protective Laminate:

ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene) is the premier solar panel laminate. ETFE has excellent light transmission properties, which results in increased energy generation and higher efficiency for the solar panel.

Resistant: ETFE is highly durable and resistant to environmental factors such as UV radiation, weathering, and temperature fluctuations. It can withstand extreme weather conditions (hail, snow, and high winds) without significant degradation.

Self-cleaning: It also has low surface energy, which means it has a self-cleaning effect. This property helps to minimize the accumulation of dirt, dust, and other contaminants on the surface of the solar panel. As a result, ETFE-coated panels require less frequent cleaning and maintenance than different panel types.

Lightweight: ETFE is lightweight and flexible. And due to its superior durability and resistance to degradation, ETFE has a longer lifespan than other panel types.

Integrated Power Charger

An integrated power charger makes powering devices directly from the charger convenient and straightforward. Charge your smartphones, tablets, cameras, portable speakers, or power banks by connecting directly to the solar panel. Eliminate the hassle of carrying multiple charging devices and streamline the charging process. The multiple charging ports accommodate charging different devices simultaneously.

Connectors

With robust connectors, cracking from movement and temperature change can be prevented.

Smart magnets

Sego utilizes embedded smart programmable magnets to make your deployment and setup flawless. Smart magnets are programmable magnets that transform ordinary magnets into precision-tailored magnetic systems. They are designed to fasten your panels quickly and maintain the rigidity of the panels without the need for manually latching. The smart magnets secure the charger with incredible force and align the electrical connections while minimizing interference with the solar panel. We have customized the engagement forces, enabling you to securely mount your Sego Charger and release it with a simple twist.

MANUFACTURING

Sego is trailblazing innovative solar panel production methods. Our team is dedicated to delivering a quality product with premium materials and the highest-performing solar cells available. The Sego Solar Charger will require significant modifications to traditional solar panel manufacturing techniques – these are not “off-the-shelf” solar panels. Our innovative origami pattern with triangular and trapezoidal panels requires pioneering solar fabrication processes to make it possible. Each SunPower cell will be precisely cut (into halves and quarters). PCB (printed circuit board) will reconnect the photovoltaic circuits to maintain the cells’ efficiencies.

Understanding Power Rating

The Sego Solar Charger is 25 rated watts (following standard industry rating standards). Rated wattage assumes ideal conditions, meaning direct and intense sunlight, mild temperatures, no shading, and perfect panel angle and orientation.

Most portable solar panels have rated wattages in their name (e.g., SolarPanel 20). We’ve chosen not to follow this convention because it can be misleading. Ideal conditions rarely occur (if ever). Wattage ratings are helpful because they provide a benchmark for comparing different panels; however, they can be mildly infuriating when the ratings are wildly inconsistent with actual wattages.

TIMELINE

THE FUTURE VISION

The SEGO Charger is our first step in accomplishing our vision: driving renewable energy adoption by making solar power more compelling. We are just beginning our journey of transforming how we interact with and use solar power.

OUR TEAM

We are passionate about bringing space-based deployable solar array technology to Earth. Our team has a history of successfully launching products ranging from carbon fiber travel guitars to naturally occurring bactericidal agents to treat antibiotic resistant-pathogens. We love to ski and hike the Wasatch mountains whenever we can.

Contact Us

Direct marketing and press requests to: ian@segoinnovations.com

Direct technical and product questions to: jacob@segoinnovations.com

Risks and challenges

While we are incredibly excited about our project and confident in our ability to deliver a high-quality product, we recognize that every venture comes with risks and challenges. We believe in transparency and want to ensure that our backers are fully informed about potential obstacles that may arise during our Kickstarter campaign and beyond. Here are some of the risks and challenges we anticipate and how we plan to mitigate them:

Manufacturing Delays: The production process involves several stages, including prototyping, testing, and final manufacturing. Unforeseen issues such as machine malfunctions or material shortages may cause delays. To minimize these risks, we have partnered with experienced manufacturers with a proven track record of delivering projects on time. We will maintain regular communication with our manufacturing partners to ensure timely progress and address any potential issues promptly.

Supply Chain Interruptions: Our product relies on various components sourced from different suppliers. Any disruptions in the supply chain, such as natural disasters or transportation delays, could impact our ability to fulfill orders within the expected timeframe. Quality Control: Ensuring the highest level of quality is of utmost importance to us. However, during mass production, defects or inconsistencies are always possible.

Shipping and Fulfillment: Delivering products to backers across regions and countries can pose logistical challenges. We will partner with reputable shipping companies to handle the fulfillment process efficiently. However, factors like customs procedures, import taxes, and unforeseen shipping delays may arise, especially for international backers. We will maintain open lines of communication with our shipping partners and provide regular updates to our backers regarding the status of their orders.

It is important to note that while we have taken measures to mitigate these risks and challenges, there may still be unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. We are committed to delivering a high-quality product. We will do everything possible to ensure a smooth and successful campaign. We promise to keep our backers well-informed throughout the process and tackle any obstacles with utmost transparency and dedication.