Efficient energy management is a crucial aspect of equipment design that influences functionality, durability, operating costs, and environmental impact.
Benefits of effective energy management
Efficient energy management extends the operating time of devices, which is particularly important for portable equipment such as smartphones and laptops. This allows users to operate their devices for longer periods without frequent charging, enhancing convenience and mobility. Lower energy consumption also reduces operating costs, benefiting both individual users and businesses. Additionally, reduced energy demand provides environmental advantages by cutting greenhouse gas emissions, especially in regions where electricity is derived from non-renewable sources. Less frequent charging cycles also slow down battery wear, significantly prolonging device lifespan. Energy-efficient devices are more reliable and less prone to overheating, which minimizes the risk of failure and improves durability. With lower energy consumption, it becomes possible to design lighter and thinner devices that are easier to transport. Adhering to standards like Energy Star or EU Ecodesign* enables manufacturers to align their products with market and regulatory requirements. Energy-efficient products are increasingly recognized by environmentally conscious consumers, who value technology’s ecological aspects.
*EU Ecodesign (Ecodesign Directive, 2009/125/EC) is a regulation introduced by the European Union aimed at enhancing the energy efficiency and environmental sustainability of products sold within the EU market. It encompasses a broad range of products, including electronics, household appliances, and lighting. The directive mandates that products comply with specific standards for energy efficiency, durability, repairability, and recyclability. EU Ecodesign emphasizes the entire life cycle of a product, spanning from design and production to eventual disposal.
Principles of designing energy-efficient devices
Designing energy-efficient devices requires implementing appropriate technical solutions for both hardware and software.
Hardware Optimization
Engineers can reduce energy consumption by implementing energy-efficient components such as ARM processors, LPDDR memory, and OLED displays. To minimize energy losses, designers should prioritize developing electronic circuits with low resistance and high efficiency. Additionally, introducing modular power systems that activate only the components currently in use is highly recommended.
Software Optimization
At the software level, implementing algorithms that adjust the device’s performance to real-time needs is essential for reducing energy consumption. Effective resource management, such as the automatic deactivation of unused modules, also plays a significant role. Advanced operating systems, such as Android with its Doze feature, further enhance power management by automatically restricting background application activity
User Interface Design
Designers should focus on creating minimalist interfaces that minimize the energy consumption of displays. Utilizing dark mode and reducing animations can achieve additional energy savings. Moreover, implementing mechanisms for automatically adjusting screen brightness to ambient lighting conditions enhances energy efficiency.
Best practices and examples from the market
Leading technology companies, such as Tesla, Samsung, and Google, use advanced solutions to enhance the energy efficiency of their products.
Source: https://deepmind.google/discover/blog/deepmind-ai-reduces-google-data-centre-cooling-bill-by-40/
Artificial intelligence in data centers
In 2016, Google used artificial intelligence technologies developed by its DeepMind team to manage cooling in data centers. The system analyzes huge amounts of operational data, such as temperature, pressure, energy consumption and cooling performance. Based on this data, AI optimizes the performance of cooling systems in real time.
Results:
- A 40% reduction in cooling energy consumption, which translated into a 15% reduction in the total energy efficiency ratio (PUE).
- The system operates autonomously, constantly learning and adapting to changing conditions, such as data center load and ambient temperature changes.
Source: https://www.shop4tesla.com/pl/pages/rekuperation-im-elektrofahrzeug
Kinetic energy recovery in electric vehicles
Tesla, as a pioneer in electric vehicles, has implemented an advanced energy recuperation system. During braking, electric motors act as generators, converting the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electrical energy, which is stored in batteries.
Effects:
- Enhancing vehicle range through energy recovery, which in traditional braking systems would be lost as heat.
- Decreasing energy consumption from external charging sources, leading to reduced operating costs.
- Minimizing wear and tear on mechanical brake components, lowering maintenance costs and extending their lifespan.
Source: https://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-tv-brings-sustainable-screen-experience-with-ai-energy-saving-features
Smart energy management for home appliances
Samsung has introduced advanced energy management features in its products, such as QLED TVs and home appliances. Of particular note is AI Energy Mode technology, which allows appliances to automatically adjust their parameters according to environmental conditions.
Examples of innovation:
- Light sensors in QLED TVs dynamically adjust screen brightness, reducing energy consumption by up to 30-50% compared to traditional TVs.
- Intelligent “Eco Mode” features in home appliances optimize energy consumption based on current needs while maintaining the equipment’s efficiency.
Advanced device design
To conclude our article, it is worth emphasizing the importance of efficient energy management as an essential aspect of modern equipment design. By using energy-efficient components and intelligent software solutions, it is possible not only to reduce operating costs but also to enhance device durability and minimize environmental impact. If you are interested in advanced electronic device design, we encourage you to explore the offer available on the Device Prototype website. We provide comprehensive design services that blend innovation with meticulous attention to detail and user needs. We warmly invite you to contact us!
