1. SOLAR TOYS AND THEIR ADVANTAGES
Article by
George Lalopoulos
C.E.O. at LAGI.PLAN (SOLAR TOYS) (www.solar-toys.gr)
As we all know, the sun is necessary for every form of life on earth. It provides daylight,
heat, energy for plant photosynthesis and vitamin D for humans, which is essential for
strong and healthy bones and a good immune system. In recent years, a new field of
application for solar energy has proven to be very popular: solar toys.
Solar toys are equipped with solar (photovoltaic) cells that convert solar energy into
direct current. In some cases, they also have a rechargeable battery that charges using
solar energy.
A solar toy without a rechargeable battery can use its solar cell, for example, to rotate
a small D.C. motor. Examples are solar windmills, solar planes, solar watermills, solar
helicopters, solar boats, solar cars, etc. On the other hand, a rechargeable - and
recyclable - battery uses the sun's rays via a solar panel to charge the battery and make
use of the stored energy afterwards. A typical example is the solar house, where the
stored energy is used to light up an LED when the house is placed in the dark.
Solar toys entertain children and at the same time give them the opportunity to learn
about solar energy and the environment. Children can learn how solar energy works
and create a culture of acceptance of renewable energy sources, thus developing
ecological conscience. In addition, solar toys can be used in school projects, especially
when they are in the form of construction kits, so that they can help children develop
their mental abilities and expand their analytical skills.
Some other advantages of solar toys include the fact that they cause less pollution due
to lower carbon waste production and are less expensive in the long run, as they do
not require you to visit the market regularly, to buy a new set of batteries. For toys
that use rechargeable batteries, all you must do is let the kids play in the sun and the
batteries will charge easily on their own. You do not need to charge the batteries or
connect the toys to the mains electricity.
In conclusion, solar toys entertain children, providing them with the necessary
education about solar energy and ecological stimuli. Therefore, not only children but
also their parents are fond of them.