Abstract:
A portable power source kit is presented. The kit includes a lower box having a lower box volume, a storage battery contained in the lower box volume and an upper box having an upper box volume and attachable to the lower box. A power adapter is contained in the upper box volume. The power adapter includes at least one or more inputs and at least one or more outputs. The power adapter is electrically connected to the storage battery. A power inverter is contained in the upper box volume. The inverter is electrically connected to the storage battery for providing DC to AC power conversion. And, a solar panel assembly is electrically connected to the power adapter where the assembly provides power to the power adapter for use in charging the storage battery and delivering power to the one or more outputs.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention relates generally to solar power. More particularly, the invention relates to an emergency solar power kit. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    Power outages may be caused by many occurrences such as, but not limited to, storms, earthquakes, accidents and power shortages, and emergency power is very desirable and sometimes necessary in these situations. Currently the main source of emergency power is provided by fuel-powered generators. People experiencing a power outage also often rely on candles for light. However, generators and candles have shortcomings. For example, without limitation, there is a risk of fire, and in the case of generators there are also issues such as, but not limited to, noise, fuel fumes and spills, carbon monoxide, and limited fuel capacity. 
         [0003]    Portable power sources are also useful in other situations, for example, without limitation, outdoor activities such as camping. Furthermore, renewable power sources are highly desirable for environmental and economic reasons. 
         [0004]    In view of the foregoing, there is a need for a clean, renewable and portable source for emergency and supplemental power. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0005]    The present invention is best illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which: 
           [0006]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an exemplary solar emergency power kit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0007]      FIG. 2A  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary solar panel assembly for a solar emergency power kit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0008]      FIG. 2B  illustrates an exemplary solar panel connection box of the solar panel assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0009]      FIGS. 3A ,  3 B,  3 C, and  3 D are schematic diagrams of an exemplary upper box of a solar emergency power kit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 3A  is a front view,  FIG. 3B  is a left end view, and  FIG. 3C  is a right end view.  FIG. 3D  illustrates a close up view of an exemplary positive wire harness and negative wire harness; 
           [0010]      FIG. 4  illustrates exemplary wiring for the switch and receptacle of the upper box, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0011]      FIGS. 5A ,  5 B and  5 C are schematic diagrams of an exemplary lower box of a solar emergency power kit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0012]      FIG. 6  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary assembly of the upper box and lower box of a solar emergency power kit illustrating the connections between the devices in the upper box and the storage battery in the lower box, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and 
           [0013]      FIG. 7  is a top perspective view looking into an exemplary open solar emergency power kit illustrating exemplary storage options, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
       
    
    
       [0014]    Unless otherwise indicated, illustrations in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0015]    To achieve the forgoing and other objects and in accordance with the purpose of the invention, a solar energy power kit is presented. 
         [0016]    In one embodiment, a portable power source kit is presented. The kit includes a lower box having a lower box volume, a storage battery contained in the lower box volume and an upper box having an upper box volume and attachable to the lower box. A power adapter is contained in the upper box volume. The power adapter includes at least one or more inputs and at least one or more outputs. The power adapter is electrically connected to the storage battery. A power inverter is contained in the upper box volume. The inverter is electrically connected to the storage battery for providing DC to AC power conversion. And, a solar panel assembly is electrically connected to the power adapter where the assembly provides power to the power adapter for use in charging the storage battery and delivering power to the one or more outputs. In other embodiments, the kit further includes at least one or more DC power outlets and each of the one or more DC power outlets are connected to the storage battery via an outlet switch. In another embodiment, the kit further includes a clearance light electrically connected to the storage battery via a switch. In another embodiment, the switch is the outlet switch. In still another embodiment, the power inverter further includes at least one or more AC power outlets. In yet another embodiment, the power inverter is connected to the storage battery with clips for disconnecting when not in use to avoid power loss. In another embodiment, the power inverter further includes a power switch for activating the power outlets, an on indicator light and a low storage battery indicator. In other embodiments, the upper box volume includes a storage area for storing items, the lower box volume includes a storage area for storing items and the lower box has handles on an exterior of the lower box for transporting the kit. 
         [0017]    In another embodiment a portable power source kit for emergency and supplemental use is presented. The kit includes means for storing power, means for containing the means for storing power, means for providing DC inputs and DC outputs, means for providing DC to AC power conversion, means for containing the means for providing DC inputs and DC outputs and the means for providing DC to AC power conversion, means for attaching the means for containing the means for storing power to the means for containing the means for providing DC inputs and DC outputs and the means for providing DC to AC power conversion, means for providing a solar panel assembly and means for electrically connecting the means for storing power, the means for providing DC inputs and DC outputs, the means for providing DC to AC power conversion and the means for providing a solar panel assembly where the solar panel assembly provides DC power, DC power is provided at the DC outputs, power can be stored in the means for storing power and the DC to AC power conversion can be operative. Another embodiment further includes means for providing handles for the kit. Yet another embodiment further includes means for providing storage of items. 
         [0018]    In another embodiment, a portable power source kit for emergency and supplemental use is presented. The kit includes a lower box having a lower box volume, a storage battery contained in the lower box volume, an upper box having an upper box volume and attachable to the lower box. A power adapter is contained in the upper box volume. The power adapter includes at least one or more inputs and at least one or more outputs. The power adapter is electrically connected to the storage battery. At least one or more DC power outlets, the DC power outlets are connected to the storage battery via outlet switches. The DC power outlets are configured to provide DC power to standard AC devices that have been converted for DC use. A clearance light is electrically connected to the storage battery via a switch. A power inverter is contained in the upper box volume. The power inverter is electrically connected to the storage battery for providing DC to AC power conversion. The power inverter includes at least one or more AC power outlets, a power switch for activating the power inverter, an on indicator light and a low storage battery indicator. And, a solar panel assembly is electrically connected to the power adapter where the solar panel assembly provides power to the power adapter for use in charging the storage battery and delivering power to the one or more outputs. In another embodiment, the power inverter is connected to the storage battery with clips for disconnecting when not in use to avoid power loss. In another embodiment, the storage battery is a 12-volt deep cycle storage battery. In other embodiments, the upper box volume includes a storage area for storing items and the lower box volume includes a storage area for storing items. In still another embodiment, the lower box has handles on an exterior of the lower box for transporting the kit. 
         [0019]    Other features, advantages, and object of the present invention will become more apparent and be more readily understood from the following detailed description, which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0020]    The present invention is best understood by reference to the detailed figures and the description set forth herein. 
         [0021]    Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to the Figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments. For example, without limitation, it should be appreciated that those skilled in the art will, in light of the teachings of the present invention, recognize a multiplicity of alternate and suitable approaches, depending on the needs of the particular application, to implement the functionality of any given detail described herein, beyond the particular implementation choices in the following embodiments described and shown. That is, there are numerous modifications and variations of the invention that are too numerous to be listed but that all fit within the scope of the invention. Also, singular words should be read as plural and vice versa and masculine as feminine and vice versa, where appropriate, and alternative embodiments do not necessarily imply that the two are mutually exclusive. 
         [0022]    The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. 
         [0023]    The preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a solar panel device to be used as a renewable power source that can be used for power needs in a home, for example without limitation, emergency power or supplemental power. The preferred embodiment is designed to operate table lamps and other low wattage household items for short periods. However, alternate embodiments may be designed to power larger wattage items and/or for longer periods. The preferred embodiment is also portable, providing users with a portable power source for various activities such as, but not limited to, camping or other outdoor activities. 
         [0024]    Embodiments of the present invention generally eliminate continuous generator noise, messy fuel spills and odors, and risk of fire that occur with traditional emergency power supplies. Also, unlike gas lighting, embodiments of the present invention have switches and thus do not need to run overnight. There are also no fears of carbon monoxides while operating embodiments of the present invention in enclosed areas such as, but not limited to, campers, tents, cabins, lento, workshops, sheds, patios, or any other enclosed shelters. Embodiments may be used in situations such as, but not limited to, camping trips or power outages, for recreation or due to events such as, but not limited to, storms or other disasters. 
         [0025]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an exemplary solar emergency power kit  101 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The present embodiment comprises a solar panel assembly  103 , an upper box  105 , and a lower box  107 . Upper box  105  and lower box  107  are constructed of ½-inch plywood. The plywood is cut and formed into the boxes and secured with glue and finishing nails. In alternate embodiments the upper box and lower box may be constructed of various other materials such as, but not limited to, other types of wood or various plastics. In the present embodiment, upper box  105  is coupled to lower box  107  with a hinge to provide internal access. Handles  109  are located on each side of lower box  107  for carrying. The total weight of the present embodiment is approximately 70 lbs. when equipped with a 12-volt marine battery. A standard two-wire connecting cord  111  connects solar panel assembly  103  to an inlet/outlet power adapter  113 . In the present embodiment, connecting cord  111  is 15 ft. to 20 ft long and is and indoor/outdoor type 16 gage 2 conducter. Some embodiments may use longer cords at a reduced efficiency. In the present embodiment, power adapter  113  is a 12-volt adapter with a power indicator light. The indicator light is lit when power adapter  113  is energized. For example, without limitation, during the day as solar panel assembly  103  is in use, the indicator light is lit; however if solar emergency power kit  101  is not plugged in at night, the indicator light is not lit. Leaving solar emergency power kit  101  plugged in enables the user to find it in complete darkness. Power adapter  113  also enables electrically powered objects such as, but not limited to, lamps and small appliances to be plugged into solar emergency power kit  101  so that they may be turned on. The present embodiment also comprises a clearance light  115 . In the present embodiment, clearance light  115  is a 3-watt light used typically as a night light. Alternate embodiments may include smaller or larger clearance lights or multiple clearance lights, and other alternate embodiments may not include a clearance light. 
         [0026]    Some embodiments may also include a framed cart with casters for convenience to move the solar emergency power kit from location to location if necessary. Other embodiments may have wheels such as, but not limited to, lawnmower type wheels, that are adjustable, for example, without limitation, in an up or down direction and a handle for moving the solar emergency power kit from one area to another. Yet other embodiments may be moved around by a standard handcart or may also be carried by the user with handles  109  that are provided. 
         [0027]      FIG. 2A  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary solar panel assembly  103  for a solar emergency power kit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, solar panel assembly  103  comprises a solar panel  201  and a solar panel connection box  203 . Solar Panel  201  is preferably a 50-watt panel. However, alternate embodiments may use solar panels of various wattages depending on intended use. For example, without limitation, one embodiment may use a 10-watt solar panel for general battery maintenance and for use when short power outages occur, and embodiments with 50-watt solar panels maybe recommended for daily users. Solar panel connection box  203  connects solar panel assembly  103  to connecting cord  111 . The other end of connecting cord  111  is connected to power adapter  113  located on upper box  105 , shown by way of example in  FIG. 1 . This enables power from solar panel assembly  103  to be stored in a storage battery located in lower box assembly  107 , shown by way of example in  FIGS. 5A ,  5 B and  5 C. In the present embodiment, power adapter  213  is a 12-volt adapter and has an indicator light  215 . Indicator light  215  remains on as long as power adapter  213  is plugged in. This enables the user to find the device in the dark if necessary. Power adapter  213  may be attached to the end of connection cord  111  through various means including, but not limited to, screws, soldering, or push-in connections, depending on the type of power adapter being used. 
         [0028]      FIG. 2B  illustrates exemplary solar panel connection box  203  of solar panel assembly  103 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. To attach connecting cord  111  to solar panel connection box  203  in the present embodiment, an outer layer of connecting cord  111  is stripped to expose two inner wires, typically a white wire  205  and a black wire  207 . Then, a wire connector  209  is attached to the end of each wire,  205  and  207 . In the present embodiment, wire connectors  209  are ring connectors attached to the ends of wires  205  and  207  with a crimping tool. A cover  211  is removed from solar panel connection box  203 . Then white wire  205  is connected to a positive connection screw  212  and black wire  207  is connected to a negative connection screw  214 . Cover  211  is then replaced to protect solar panel connection box  203 . 
         [0029]      FIGS. 3A ,  3 B,  3 C, and  3 D are schematic diagrams of an exemplary upper box  105  of a solar emergency power kit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 3A  is a front view,  FIG. 3B  is a left end view, and  FIG. 3C  is a right end view.  FIG. 3D  illustrates a close up view of an exemplary positive wire harness  311  and negative wire harness  312 . In the present embodiment, upper box  105  comprises inlet/outlet power adapter  113 , clearance light  115 , a double switch  301 , a receptacle  303 , and a DC to AC inverter  305 . Power adapter  113  is a triple 12-volt power inlet/outlet that enables power in and out at the same time. Power adapter  113  is attached to upper box  105  with a mounting bracket, and a stop block  317  is fastened to hold power adapter  113  in place. In the present embodiment, clearance light  115  has a clear lens and a dedicated switch  315  and is optional as a convenient night light. In alternate embodiments, the clearance light may be controlled by the main switch rather than a dedicated switch. In the present embodiment, switch  301  and receptacle  303  are covered with standard plastic covers with waterproof seals to protect the interior of the solar emergency power kit. Upper box  105  also comprises two upper latch assemblies  319 . Upper latch assemblies  319  work in conjunction with lower latch assemblies on lower box  107 , shown by way of example in  FIGS. 5A ,  5 B and  5 C to keep the solar emergency power kit in a closed position. In the present embodiment, upper latch assemblies  319  are located two inches from each side of the front of upper box  105 . 
         [0030]    In the present embodiment, inverter  305  is a 350-watt 12-volt DC to 120-volt AC inverter able to provide 120-volt electric power. Alternate embodiments may have larger inverters; however, larger inverter needs may require a larger solar panel. To determine these needs follow the selected manufacture&#39;s manual and warranty information. In the present embodiment, inverter  305  limits use of the reserve power in the storage battery. A positive inverter wire  321  and a negative inverter wire  323  connect inverter  305  to a positive alligator clip  325  and a negative alligator clip  327 , respectively, on the storage battery. When inverter  305  is not in use it is preferable to disconnect positive inverter wire  321  and negative inverter wire  323  from positive alligator clip  325  and negative alligator clip  327  to avoid power loss. In the present embodiment, inverter  305  is attached to upper box  105  with a plywood support  331  using screws  333 . Inverter  305  comprises features such as, but not limited to, a power switch  335 , an on indicator light  337  and a low battery indicator light  339 . 
         [0031]    12-volt DC non-inverter wires  307  connect power adapter  113  to a storage battery, shown by way of example in  FIGS. 5A ,  5 B, and  5 C. Non-inverter wires  307  join with positive power wires  405 , negative power wires  407 , and clearance light wires  309  to form positive wire harness  31   1  and negative wire harness  312 . In the present embodiment, wire harnesses  311  and  312  attach to the storage battery with ring wire connectors  313 . 
         [0032]    The electrical devices included on the front and left end of upper box  105  in the present embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , are used for 12-volt applications. The configurations shown by way of example are normal to enable use with standard cords or items with 12-volt capabilities. The devices included on the right end of upper box  105  in the present embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 3C , are intended for 120-volt applications. Standard 12-volt cords or other items may not be plugged into inverter  305 . 
         [0033]      FIG. 4  illustrates exemplary wiring for switch  301  and receptacle  303  of upper box  105 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, switch  301  is a standard 120-volt, 15-amp double switch with a connection bridge  401  cut to form two separate switches, each side to operate one side of the separated receptacle  303 . Receptacle  303  is a standard 120-volt, 15-amp receptacle with a connection bridge  403  cut to form two separate outlets. 120 volt devices cannot be powered direct from standard 12 volt receptacles. By not using a power inverter to convert to 120 V, longer use time is achieved for the system. Lighting applications would be achieved by removing the 120v bulb and installing a 12v bulb. Receptacle  303  is used for 12-volt operation with items such as, but not limited to, standard extension cords or table lamps with 12-volt bulbs plugged into receptacle  303 . Inverter  305  requires more wattage for the same lighting needs. Positive power wires  401  connect switch  301  to the storage battery as part of positive wire harness  311 , shown by way of example in  FIG. 3D , and power wires  409  connecting switch  301  and receptacle  303  are both positive. Negative power wires  407  connect receptacle  303  to the storage battery as part of negative wire harness  312 , shown by way of example in  FIG. 3D . In the present embodiment, wire attachments are made with screws on switch  301  and receptacle  303  and wire connectors are not required. 
         [0034]      FIGS. 5A ,  5 B and  5 C are schematic diagrams of an exemplary lower box  107  of a solar emergency power kit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment lower box  107  houses a storage battery  501  and a storage area  513 . Battery  501  is a 12-volt deep cycle battery of any type with a standard positive post  503  and a standard negative post  505 . In the present embodiment, battery  501  also has secondary threaded negative post  507  and a secondary threaded positive post  508  with wing nuts for extra wire attachments. Lower box  107  also comprises handles  109 , lower latch assemblies  509  and a hinge  511 . Handles  109  are attached on opposing sides of lower box  107  and enable the device to be carried by the user. In the present embodiment, handles  109  are swing-out type handles attached with screws; however the handles may be various different types of handles and may be attached by varying means. For example, without limitation, one embodiment may have a plastic exterior with handles molded out of the same material built into the exterior of the device. In the present embodiment, lower latch assemblies  509  are located two inches from the sides of the front of lower box  107  to align with upper latch assemblies  319  on upper box  105 , shown by way of example in  FIGS. 3A ,  3 B and  3 C. Those skilled in the art in light of the present teachings will recognize that various different types of latches may be used for upper and lower latch assemblies such as, but not limited to, draw latches, snap latches, hooks, or magnetic latches. In the present embodiment, hinge  511  attaches to the top of the back of lower box  107  and the bottom of the back of upper box  105  so that upper box  105  functions as a lid on lower box  107 . In the present embodiment, hinge  511  is a 12-inch by 2-inch hinge attached by screws; however, in alternate embodiments different sizes of hinges and attachment means may be used. 
         [0035]    To connect inverter  305 , shown by way of example in  FIG. 3C , to storage battery  501 , positive inverter wire  321  is connected to positive alligator clip  325  on positive post  503 , and negative inverter wire  323  is connected to negative alligator clip  327  on negative post  505 . 12-volt DC non-inverter wires  307  connect power adapter  113 , shown by way of example in  FIG. 3A , to storage battery  501 . Non-inverter wires  307  join with positive power wires  405 , negative power wires  407 , and a clearance light wire  309  to form positive wire harness  311  and negative wire harness  312 . In the present embodiment, wire harnesses  311  and  312  attach to storage battery  501  with ring wire connectors  313  on secondary posts  507 . 
         [0036]      FIG. 6  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary assembly of upper box  105  and lower box  107  of a solar emergency power kit illustrating the connections between the devices in upper box  105  and storage battery  501  in lower box  107 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, inverter  305  connects to storage battery  501  by connecting positive inverter wire  321  to positive post  503  using positive alligator clip  325  and connecting negative inverter wire  323  to negative post  505  with negative alligator clip  327 . The wires from adapter  113 , switch  301  and receptacle  303  are bundled together into positive wire harness  311  and negative wire harness  312 . These wire harnesses are connected to secondary posts  507  and  508  on storage battery  501 . In the present embodiment a positive clearance light wire  607  from clearance light  115  is wired to switch  301  so that switch  301  controls clearance light  115 , and a negative clearance light wire  609  connects directly to secondary post  507  near negative post  505 . In alternate embodiments negative clearance light wire  609  may be bundled into negative wire harness  312 , as shown by way of example in  FIGS. 3A and 3D . 
         [0037]      FIG. 7  is a top perspective view looking into an exemplary open solar emergency power kit  101  illustrating exemplary storage options, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, upper box  105  has a storage area for useful items in emergencies such as, but not limited to, the following items. The storage area may hold a two-AA battery standard flashlight  701 , for example, without limitation, an LED AA flashlight, which can operate up to 250 hours between battery recharging. Flashlight  701  may be secured in upper box  105  with means such as, but not limited to, a clip or hook-and-loop material. The storage area also comprises two storage sockets  703  for standard 12-volt 50-watt bulbs  705 . Sockets  703  enable bulbs  705  to be stored out of the way and help prevent breakage of bulbs  705 . This type of bulb is usually found in RV or automotive departments and may be used in an emergency to replace 120-volt bulbs from a lamp. The storage area in the present embodiment also has a small plastic box  707  affixed to the top of the inside of upper box  105 . Plastic box  707  is upside down when upper box  105  is closed onto lower box  107  so that it may be accessed when upper box  105  is opened by pivoting about hinge  511 . Plastic box  707  may be used to store small items such as, but not limited to, extra wire connectors, ring type and standard push on and 20-amp buss fuses, which are replacement fuses for a 350-watt inverter. 
         [0038]    In the present embodiment, lower box  107  also has a storage area  513  for useful items in emergencies. For example, without limitation, storage area  513  may hold a 25-ft, 16gage 2conducter indoor/outdoor extension cord that may be used for both 12-volt DC and 120-volt AC applications. Other smaller items may also be stored in storage area  513  such as, but not limited to, a set of small electrical alligator clips, rolls of electrical tape, a wire stripper, a small transistor radio with two AA rechargeable batteries, a battery post cleaning brush, and a AA/AAA battery charger along with batteries in charger that may be used in other battery operated items. Various other types of items may also be stored in the storage areas depending on the needs of the user and the capabilities of the particular embodiment. Furthermore, various embodiments may include more or less storage space. 
         [0039]    In typical use solar emergency power kit  101  is used as a renewable power source in situations such as, but not limited to, emergencies or disasters, or while camping to operate12-volt or 120-volt low wattage items. The preferred embodiment is portable enough to be convenient for camping trips. Embodiment of the present invention may also be used by contractors to operate some non-continuous running low wattage items. However, a solar emergency power kit intended for contractor&#39;s use may require some modifications such as, but not limited to, Solar panel capacity should be increased to 100-200 watts, Inverter capacity 1000 watts or more. Battery capacity is increased either by using a double battery or the type used in trucks. Some of the items stored for emergencies may not be required, and its total weight would increase. However the current version may work in its present form for some contractors pending the type of work being done. Other versions may be designed according to type of work required. The preferred embodiment can also be recharged with a battery charger wherein a gage or voltage remaining indicator would be typically be necessary. 
         [0040]    The preferred embodiment of the present invention is designed to operate all 12-volt electrical low wattage items plus some normal 120-volt household items. Thus, the preferred embodiment enables a user to use these items in a power outage caused by an event such as, but not limited to, an emergency or disaster. Furthermore, the power generated by the preferred embodiment is renewable, making camping and vacations more enjoyable as well. Some non-limiting examples of possible uses of solar emergency power kits according to embodiments of the present invention are as follows. A solar emergency power kit can operate household 120-volt lamps with an inverter or 12-volt lighting designed for camping uses. Some kitchen items such as, but not limited to, electric can openers, blenders and some mixers and other small appliances such as, but not limited to, electric razors and fans can be operated with a solar emergency power kit. For best efficiency it is recommended to run a 12-volt fan; however 120-volt fans can be operated with an inverter. Most of these fans require approximately 100 or more watts, plus the inverter load watt usage, combined this may require 150 watts per hour. Small TVs or DVD players designed to operate on AC-DC or rechargeable batteries can be powered by a solar emergency power kit; however some TVs will draw 50-watts or more per hour of power so the use of portable or battery operated TVs or DVD players is recommended for entertainment. A solar emergency power kit can recharge rechargeable batteries, from AA to D cell for devices such as, but not limited to, radios, flashlights, hand held games and rechargeable batteries for most cordless power tools, including, but not limited to, 18 to 24volt batteries. A solar emergency power kit can operate digital camera printers with a 120-volt inverter system and laptop computers with a 120-volt AC inverter or on 12-volts with a proper adapter. Smaller type electric 120-volt hand tools such as, but not limited to, some weed eaters and most home and garden tools up to  120 -volt, 3-amp may be powered off of a solar emergency power kit. These tools may be used for activities such as, but not limited to, clearing a campsite. A solar emergency power kit can also recharge cell phones. Small refrigerators designed for 12-volt may be used during outings for example, without limitation, for those who may require medications that must be kept cool. All items that are designed to operate from a standard vehicle power outlet can also be operated by a solar emergency power kit according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         [0041]    The preferred embodiment is designed to operate table lamps and other low wattage household items for short periods. If an extension cord is required, it is recommend that the extension cord is no more than a standard 25-ft, 16gage 2conductor indoor/outdoor type cord. The preferred embodiment will however still work with longer cords at a reduced efficiency. Using low wattage, high efficiency light bulbs, to increase operating time is recommended. For example, without limitation, LED (Light Emitting Diodes) type light bulbs provide sufficient lighting at approximately 3 to 6 watts and are available in both 12-volt and 120-volt types. Using low wattage bulbs enables the user to operate additional items at the same time. 
         [0042]    A solar emergency power kit has capabilities to operate any thing based on the limits of the inverter included in the particular solar emergency power kit. The more watts being used, the less operating time will be available. The only compensation is providing an offset by increasing the requirements of the solar panel; however, this only prolongs the use by simple math. For example, without limitation, if 350 watts are output, a 50-watt solar panel requires 7 hours to replace the 350 watts. If the user limits himself to 600 watts per night and no use during the day with a 50-watt panel, the user should not run out of power for weeks, if ever. Also, as days get longer, more solar panel input is available. Some daytime use may not affect recommended daily use. For example, without limitation, if the storage battery is at full charge, a user could watch a 50-watt AC-DC TV all day and not draw from the storage battery, if connected to a 50-watt solar panel, and thus still have a fully charged storage battery at the end of the day. 
         [0043]    Understanding the number of watts used as output and the number of input watts determines the total daily use time available for a solar emergency power kit in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. With continuous use without a solar panel, a battery similar to a storage battery used in a solar emergency power kit provides approximately 1350 watts of output. To maximize the number of watts of input, the solar panel should be facing the sun as much as possible during the day. Input cannot exceed total output capacity of the battery while not in use. It is recommended that the user finds some daily or weekly use for his solar emergency power kit. If everyone found some daily needed use for a solar emergency power kit, these kits would pay for themselves both environmentally and financially. It is also recommend that all recharging be done during daylight if needed, because this enables the solar panel to effectively restore as much power to the main storage battery and have all available batteries charged, including, but not limited to, cordless tool batteries. 
         [0044]    In the preferred embodiment, the working electrical parts are contained in the upper box, lid portion of the solar emergency power kit. In some embodiments, the upper box may be removed and stored as a separate complete unit to be used in an emergency with most 12-volt car batteries. In these embodiments the upper box has means for removing the upper box from the lower box. For example, without limitation, in one embodiment instead of hinging on the lower box, the upper box slides over or into the lower box to form a lid that can be taken completely off of the lower box. In another embodiment, the upper and lower boxes may have no hinge and latches on multiple sides, for example, without limitation, two in the front and two in the back, which can be unlatched to remove the upper box from the lower box. 
         [0045]    Alternate embodiments may use a larger solar panel and equivalent inverter to generate and store more power. Embodiments may be available as up-grades or down grades to the preferred embodiment to be suited to meet the needs of many individuals. For example, without limitation, a solar emergency power kit with a large solar panel and inverter may be used to power an entire house. 
         [0046]    Another alternate embodiment of the present invention may be installed as a standard housing requirement to provide some emergency lighting and power. This application is on a similar scale to the preferred embodiment, not an expensive full house operation. This embodiment comprises identified and dedicated receptacles in desired rooms to be used as 12-volt lighting only that may be used if utilities are on or not. The present embodiment may be installed as a new home is built, or retrofitted to existing homes. 
         [0047]    Although preferred embodiment is designed as a solar powered product it can also be recharged with a standard 12volt battery charger. This can be considered as a quick method to insure a full charge prior to a known possible power outage. Conventional systems are generally not rechargeable by way of solar power. This is done similarly as how a standard  12 volt battery is recharged. 
         [0048]    To upgrade or improve this unit is to add one of several types of means available to check the power level remaining in the battery. This is not limited to some of the more advanced gages or LED light strip indicating charged, low or needs recharged. Or something designed just for this application. 
         [0049]    This allows the user to be aware of his CURRENT condition. 
         [0050]    Another alternate application is to use a solar emergency power kit for limited outdoor lighting, for example, without limitation, in an out-of-the-way area in a back yard, or patio. This application provides power to an area with no electrical cord or wiring running to the area being powered. 
         [0051]    Having fully described at least one embodiment of the present invention, other equivalent or alternative means for implementing a solar emergency power kit according to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention has been described above by way of illustration, and the specific embodiments disclosed are not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed. The invention is thus to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the following claims.