Abstract: The present invention discloses an absorber composition and photovoltaic device (PV) using the composition comprising nanoparticles and/or sintered nanoparticles comprising compounds having the formula MAxMByMCz(LAaLBb)4 where MA, MB and MC comprise elements chosen from the group consisting of Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Sn and Pb, LA and LB are chalcogens and x is between 1.5 and 2.2, y and z are independently the same or different and are between 0.5 and 1.5 and (a+b)=1. Particularly preferred synthetic routes to uniform thin films in PV devices comprising sintered nanoparticles of Cu2ZnSnSe4 and Cu2ZnSnS4 are disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for manufacturing a photovoltaic device that includes: providing a substrate having a first electrode formed thereon; forming a first unit cell, the first unit cell including a first conductive silicon layer, an intrinsic silicon layer and a second conductive silicon layer, which are sequentially stacked from the first electrode; exposing to the air either a portion of an intermediate reflector formed on the first unit cell or the second conductive silicon layer of the first unit cell; forming the rest of the intermediate reflector or the entire intermediate reflector on the second conductive silicon layer of the first unit cell in a second manufacturing system; and forming a second unit cell on the intermediate reflector in the second manufacturing system, the second unit cell including a first conductive silicon layer, an intrinsic silicon layer and a second conductive silicon layer, sequentially stacked.

Abstract: A Schottky-barrier junction element 1 has a Schottky-barrier junction between an organic semiconductor 3 and an organic conductor 4. The inorganic semiconductor 3 is any one of nitride semiconductors, Si, GaAs, CdS, CdTe, CuInGaSe, InSb, PbTe, PbS, Ge, InN, GaSb, and SiC. A solar cell uses this Schottky-barrier junction element 1, with its photoelectric conversion section including the Schottky junction. A photoelectric conversion element uses this Schottky-barrier junction element 1, with its conversion section for interconverting light and electricity including the Schottky junction.

Abstract: A thin film solar cell is disclosed comprising the following layers deposited on a substrate: a microcrystalline p- or n-layer, an intermediate microcrystalline silicon i-layer applied by a hot-wire chemical-vapor deposition (HWCVD) method on the microcrystalline p- or n-layer a), an additional i-layer of microcrystalline silicon, which is formed by depositing on the intermediate microcrystalline silicon i-layer, by a plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD), a sputtering process, or a photo-CVD method whereby layers b) and c) together form an i-layer, and if a p-layer is present as the layer of step a), an p-layer, and if an n-layer is present as the layer of step a), a p-layer that is either microcrystalline or amorphous.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for solder bonding entities to solid materials. One or more through apertures are formed in a solid material. Solder paste is introduced into each through aperture. Respective entities having solderable surface features are disposed in overlying alignment with the through apertures. The arrangement is heated causing molten solder paste to wet the solderable surface features and the solid material. Cooling results in the electrical and mechanical bonding of the entities to the solid material. Devices having substantially planar form factors and without lead wires can be electrically and mechanically secured to a supporting conductive stratum.

Abstract: Provided are solar cells and methods of forming the same. The solar cell includes an anti-reflection layer on a substrate, a first electrode on the anti-reflection layer, a photo-electro conversion layer on the first electrode, and a second electrode on the photo-electro conversion layer.

Abstract: A structure for use in a photovoltaic device is disclosed, the structure includes a substrate, a buffer material, a barrier material in contact with the substrate; and a transparent conductive oxide between the buffer material and the barrier material. The buffer material comprises at least one of CdZnO and SnZnO. The structure can be included in a photovoltaic device. Methods for forming the structure are also disclosed.

Abstract: A glass composition according to the present invention comprises: phosphorus, vanadium and at least one transition metal selected from a group consisting of tungsten, iron, and manganese, the glass composition not containing substances included in the JIG level A and B lists, a softening point of the glass composition being 550° C. or lower.

Abstract: Disclosed is a photovoltaic device that includes: a substrate; a first electrode disposed on the substrate; a photoelectric transformation layer disposed on the first electrode, the photoelectric transformation layer comprising a light absorbing layer which comprises at least one pair of an intrinsic first sub-layer and an intrinsic second sub-layer, each of which comprises hydrogenated amorphous silicon and hydrogenated proto-crystalline silicon; and a second electrode disposed on the photoelectric transformation layer; wherein a thickness ratio between the first sub-layer and the second sub-layer in each of the pair is constant.

Abstract: A solar cell containing an electrode, wherein the electrode is formed by firing a conductive paste, wherein the conductive paste includes an organic binder, a solvent, conductive particles, glass frits and a compound containing Al, Ga, In or Tl. A method for producing a solar cell by forming an electrode by firing a conductive paste, wherein the conductive paste includes an organic binder, a solvent, conductive particles, glass frits and a compound containing Al, Ga, In or Tl.

Abstract: The invention relates to a surface structure and a Fresnel lens which has at least one such surface structure. Furthermore, the invention relates to a tool for production of a surface structure and a method for production of a surface structure or Fresnel lens. Furthermore, the invention relates to the use of a Fresnel lens.

Abstract: An optical device including a metamaterial layer having a negative index of refraction for at least one wavelength in the visible range of 400-700 nm, a photovoltaic cell, and an optical waveguide arranged between the metamaterial layer and the photovoltaic cell. The optical waveguide has a first face and second face arranged opposite the first face, the first face having a larger area than the second face, the metamaterial layer positioned at the first face of the optical waveguide and the photovoltaic cell positioned at the second face of the optical waveguide. The optical device can be a solar collector. The optical waveguide can have a trapezoidal cross section, with the side faces of the waveguide having an angle of tilt sufficient to ensure total internal reflection for all incidence angles within the metamaterial's acceptance cone.

Abstract: The present invention is an optically transparent laminate film comprising: at least three layers of film, wherein at least two of the at least three layers comprise ionomeric films, and wherein the film can be suitable for use in a photovoltaic cell or in packaging.

Abstract: Methods and devices are described for a photovoltaic device and substrate structure. In one embodiment, a photovoltaic device includes a substrate structure and a CdTe absorber layer, the substrate structure including a Zn1?xMgxO window layer and a low conductivity buffer layer. Another embodiment is directed to a process for manufacturing a photovoltaic device including forming a Zn1?xMgxO window layer over a substrate by at least one of sputtering, evaporation deposition, CVD, chemical bath deposition process and vapor transport deposition process. The process including forming a CdTe absorber layer above the Zn1?xMgxO window layer.

Abstract: Methods and devices are described for a photovoltaic device and substrate structure. In one embodiment, a photovoltaic device includes a substrate structure and a MS 1-xOx window layer formed over the substrate structure, wherein M is an element from the group consisting of Zn, Sn, and In. Another embodiment is directed to a process for manufacturing a photovoltaic device including forming a MS 1-xOx window layer over a substrate by at least one of sputtering, evaporation deposition, CVD, chemical bath deposition process and vapor transport deposition process, wherein M is an element from the group consisting of Zn, Sn, and In.

Abstract: A device, system, and method for solar cell construction and layer transfer are disclosed herein. An exemplary method of solar cell construction involves providing a silicon donor substrate. A porous layer is formed on the donor substrate. A first portion of a solar cell is constructed on the porous layer of the donor substrate. The solar cell and donor substrate are bonded to a flexible substrate. The flexible substrate and the first portion of a solar cell are then separated from the donor substrate at the porous layer. A second portion of a solar cell may then be constructed on the first portion of a solar cell providing a single completed solar cell.

Abstract: Processes for making a solar cell by depositing various layers of components on a substrate and converting the components into a thin film photovoltaic absorber material. Processes of this disclosure can be used to control the stoichiometry of metal atoms in making a solar cell for targeting a particular concentration and providing a gradient of metal atom concentration. A selenium layer can be used in annealing a thin film photovoltaic absorber material.

Abstract: A metal substrate with an insulating layer, which is capable of being produced by a simple process, exhibits heat resistance during semiconductor processing, is superior in voltage resistance, and has small leakage current, and an Al base material that realizes the metal substrate are provided. The metal substrate with an insulating layer is formed by administering anodic oxidation on at least one surface of the Al base material. The Al base material includes only precipitous particles of a substance which is anodized by anodic oxidation as precipitous particles within an Al matrix.

Abstract: An apparatus for restricting fluid flow includes: a ball receiving element disposed in a fluid conduit and configured to receive a ball that has been advanced through the fluid conduit and at least partially restrict fluid flow; and at least one seating element at least partially disposed within the fluid conduit, the at least one seating element including at least one of: a shape that extends radially into the fluid conduit and is contoured axially to reduce a rate of deceleration of the ball upon contact with the ball receiving element, and a radially compliant element configured to reduce an impact between the ball and the ball receiving element.

Abstract: An apparatus for mass transfer of a gas into a liquid, including a tank that defines a chamber for receiving the gas, and at least one surface provided within the chamber. Each surface has an inner region, an outer region and an edge adjacent the outer region. Each surface is configured to receive the liquid at the inner region and rotate such that the liquid flows on the surface from the inner region to the outer region, and, upon reaching the edge of the surface, separates to form liquid particles that move outwardly through the gas in the chamber. The liquid particles are sized so that the gas is absorbed by the liquid particles to produce a mixed liquid saturated with the gas during a brief flight time of the liquid particles through the chamber.

Abstract: A device for putting in solution a powdery concentrate includes a liquid supply pipe (10), an extraction pipe (30) with a valve (31), and a transfer pipe (40) connected to a junction point, the transfer pipe being for connecting to a receptacle (50) containing the concentrate. The junction point is in the constriction of a venturi tube (20), the supply pipe (10) being connected to the convergent chamber (21), and the extraction pipe (30) to the divergent chamber (22). If the valve (31) is closed, the liquid leaves the venturi tube through the vacuum tapping to enter the receptacle. When the valve (31) is opened, the liquid leaves the venturi tube through the divergence chamber, causing a pressure drop in the vacuum tapping. The saturated liquid contained in the receptacle is then sucked and entrained by the liquid passing through the venturi.

Abstract: A fluid transfer device comprising a housing and a flow controller at least partially slidably disposed in the housing, the flow controller comprising at least one fluid channel and a vent conduit. A shroud, alone or in combination with the fluid transfer device comprising a plurality of segments terminating in a annular edge and defining a plurality of openings, and a plurality of protrusions, each of the plurality of protrusions having a proximal end connected to the annular edge and a distal end positioned in one of the plurality of openings adapted for the housing of the fluid transfer device is provided.

Abstract: A valve (100), including a fluid inlet (102) and a fluid outlet (103) formed in a housing (101) is provided. The valve (100) includes a valve seal (209) and a resilient member (207). The resilient member (207) is coupled to the valve seal (209). The valve (100) can also include one or more shape memory alloy component (206) or another electrically actuated component that is coupled to at least a first end (214) of the resilient member (207).

Abstract: The invention is a method of venting the degradation products of an ascorbic acid containing composition. This prevents a build-up of carbon dioxide and may prolong the life of the packaging. The packaging includes an impermeable container and a semi-permeable top, which allows carbon dioxide to vent over time. When the composition includes water, the surface area of semi-permeable material contacting the composition is reduced to lessen water vapor loss.

Abstract: A hydraulic system for a working machine includes at least one work function and a control valve unit for controlling hydraulic fluid to and from the work function, and a recovery unit connected to a return port of the control valve unit for recovering energy from the work function. The system further includes an arrangement for limiting the pressure of the hydraulic fluid at the return port, which pressure limiting arrangement has a pilot-operated valve adapted to set a maximum allowable pressure at the return port of the control valve unit. The pressure is variable by controlling the pilot-operated valve by a control unit.

Abstract: An array of valves are arranged in n columns and m lines and which are each designed to control a fluid flow in an associated flow channel in a lab-on-a-chip system. The array includes at least two valves, every column having not more than one valve and every line having from zero to n valves. A device is used for actuating the valves. The valves are pressure-actuated. To produce the device, the flow channels are arranged in accordance with the arrangement of the valves.

Abstract: Disclosed are various apparatus and method for transferring a hydrocarbon fluid between two bodies. To this purpose, a transfer skid and transfer hoses are moved from a first body to a second body to be installed thereupon to provide fluid communication between the two bodies. Offloading of hydrocarbon fluid may then take place between the two bodies. Emergency release operation may be triggered during the offloading, where the transfer hoses are disconnected from the transfer skid, and are returned to the first body. Various features of the transfer skid and associated apparatus allow the transfer skid to be installed on the second body with improved mating connections, transfer hoses to be returned to the first body after offloading operation without hydrocarbon fluid leakage, and transfer hoses to disconnect with speed and safety during emergency release operation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for tapping into a pressurized multiple strings of coaxially situated tubulars for wells and/or platforms which have overturned wherein the tapping occurs underwater via a diver or remotely operated vehicle. The assembly includes a tapping tool connectable to the tubular via a saddle connection and an adjustable tapping clamp with adjustable support/locking feet, compression plate with view ports, and angularly adjustable hot tapping system, along with a drill/saw system.

Abstract: A new and improved water stop valve assembly includes a water stop valve device having an inlet, an outlet, and a valve handle device for actuating the water stop valve device between open and closed positions for controlling fluid flow between the inlet that is attached to a water distribution system and the outlet attached to a water fixture. A substantially cylindrical rough-in sleeve member having an off-set opening for slidably receiving and securing it about at least a portion of the water stop valve device to define a single water stop valving unit to be installed during a rough-in stage of new and remodeling building construction. The off-set opening is dimensioned and positioned such that the water stop valving unit is always within an outer circumference of the rough-in sleeve.

Abstract: A tap arrangement (10) is provided, which includes a spout (15) for communicating and dispensing a primary fluid, and one or more spout fluid passages (20,25) located within the spout (15) for communicating and dispensing one or more secondary fluids, and a tap portion (30). The tap portion (30) includes a generally cylindrical tap body (35), a primary control (40), a secondary control (60) and a cap (65), and is adapted to allow a user to independently dispense the primary and the one or more secondary fluids.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a polymer treatment device (100) for providing a treatment to a polymer bed (4) having granules (2) of a polymer that are in a solid- state, a computer-readable medium associated with a controller thereof, and an associated molding system (1000). The polymer treatment device 100 includes a polymer supporter (110) with which to support, in use, the polymer bed (4), a radiant heater (120) with which to heat, in use, the polymer bed (4), a first fluid dispenser (140-1) with which to dispense, in use, a first treatment fluid (102-1), and a first fluid vent (150-1) with which to vent, in use, the first treatment fluid (102-1), along with a diffusate from the polymer bed (4) potentially entrained therewith. Furthermore, the first fluid dispenser (140-1) and the first fluid vent (150-1) are arranged to promote a flow of the first treatment fluid (102-1) through the polymer bed (4) in between the granules (2) thereof.

Abstract: A seasonal insulative cover for an outdoor faucet includes at least two layers formed from a weatherproof material. A first and a second of the at least two layers are further connected to define a space there between. The first and second layers include a plurality of air chambers. A valve is included on the cover for inserting air between the at least two layers. Air inflated into the insulative cover at the valve urges the first of the at least two layers to partially conform to the outdoor faucet. The air further creates the space surrounding the outdoor faucet between the at least two layers. The space contains a volume of stationary air, which prevents a movement of air current from transferring heat from the outdoor faucet to an outdoor environment.

Abstract: An apparatus for the relief of grease under pressure in the delivery line of grease guns and similar pressure delivery devices includes a 3-port valve in which the relief port is located between the delivery and inlet ports and includes a one way flow control valve mounted therein. The one way flow control valve is maintained in a closed position by the pressure of the grease and is activated to be opened to reduce the pressure in the valve body and allow the grease to return to the grease reservoir.

Abstract: An irrigation pipe and method of fabrication that utilizes a pipe that is made of a durable material, e.g., stainless steel or aluminum. During fabrication, the pipe is equipped with a plurality of components, i.e., a flange assembly, a truss mount, and an outlet, without drilling, welding, or the like. In this manner, a method of fabrication is provided that enables a plurality of components to be assembled to the pipe without compromising the integrity of the pipe material or treated surface so that galvanizing or painting is not required after the plurality of components have been fitted to the pipe.

Abstract: A float device for use in drawing liquids such as fuel from a tank or other reservoir is disclosed. The device comprises a float arranged for rising and falling with the level of liquid in the tank and a liquid pick-up duct, which comprises a flexible tube having its free end coupled to the float. The float is arranged for vertical movement within a filter or other member, which encloses the float and the flexible tube. The filter or other member is elongate and tubular in construction and comprises an open lower end.

Abstract: A pair of dozer control valves V3, V6 concurrently operable; a pilot pressure valve V14 switchable between an independent position 27 where, when only track devices 5 are operated, discharged fluid from one hydraulic-fluid discharge port P1 is independently supplied to one track control valve and one dozer control valve, and discharged fluid from the other hydraulic-fluid discharge port P2 is independently supplied to the other track control valve and the other dozer control valve, and a merging position 28 where, when the other control valves are operated, discharged fluid from the one hydraulic-fluid discharge port and from the other hydraulic-fluid discharge port are merged and supplied to the control valves V1 to 10; and pressure compensation valves V11 in the control valves and for distributing hydraulic fluid at flow rates based on extent of actuation of the other control valves operated, irrespective of the magnitude of the loads.

Abstract: A contracted portion having an axial length is formed in the spool hole and a large diameter portion having an axial length is formed in the spool within the spool such that an annular gap is formed there-between. A valve body closes an opening portion of the spool hole. When the valve body is lifted, one of an air pressure source and a drain is connected to an air spring passage via the annular gap. When the spool retreats from the valve body, the other of the air pressure source and the drain is connected to the air spring passage via the annular gap. By setting the lengths at different values, different flow rate characteristics are realized when supplying compressed air to an air spring and discharging air from the air spring.

Abstract: A device is provided for handling animal waste gas and suppressing global warming. The device includes a hood, a feces tube that is provided with a first one-way valve, and at least one waste gas tube that is provided with a second one-way valve. The waste gas tube has an end connected to a container. When an animal expels waste gas and fecal matter, the fecal matter is allowed to drop into the feces tube and passes through the first one-way valve. The waste gas is conducted through the second one-way valve into the container for storage. As such, the waste gases expelled from cows and horses can be re-used in order to reduce pollution caused thereby, increase energy sources, and suppress the greenhouse effect of the Earth.

Abstract: An accumulator assembly comprises an accumulator cylinder formed of a cylindrical, gas-impermeable shell and a cylindrical gas-impermeable sleeve disposed within and substantially concentric with the shell. An interstitial space is formed between the sleeve and the shell. A piston slidably is disposed within the sleeve, the piston separating an interior of the sleeve into a first chamber configured to contain a compressed gas, and a second chamber configured to contain a pressurized fluid. A pair of removable axial closures retained to the gas-impermeable sleeve at opposing ends and sealingly engaged with corresponding opposing ends of the gas-impermeable shell is configured to provide maximum resistance to the tensional stress of the sleeve.

Abstract: A method of delivering a concentrated quantity of sealing elements to a leak site in a vessel (1) comprises the steps of deploying a flexible body of material (4) and at least one sealing element (3) into fluid (2) flowing within the vessel upstream of the leak site whereby the body of material transports the sealing elements through the vessel to the leak site where the body of material is drawn to the leak by fluid flow created by a pressure differential at the leak site, and wherein the sealing element(s) are constrained by the body of material at the leak site such that the sealing element(s) become(s) entrained within the leak.

Abstract: Line element and method for forming a line element. The line element includes a fluid line, and a housing structured and arranged to surround the fluid line in a radially fluid-tight manner. An annular space is formed between the fluid line and the housing, which is filled at least in part with a compressible medium, and the fluid line has at least one opening inside the annular space.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for the vibration control of a rising pipe (3) of a vertical pump is presented which riser pump is excited to vibrations in operation and which has a longitudinal direction. The apparatus (10) is outwardly positionable at the rising pipe and includes a vibration element (7.1, 7.2), one or more spring elements (8.1-8.4) and a guide, wherein the vibration element has an opening to surround the rising pipe (3) and is movably and elastically held by the spring element or elements (8.1-8.4), and wherein the vibration element (7.1, 7.2) is guided by guide such that the movements of the vibration element in operation are restricted to movements in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the rising pipe.

Abstract: A tool for tensioning and cutting a band clamp is provided with a body, a stationary handle, and a movable lever that are selectively positionable with respect to the body to provide a plurality of gripping options.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for the volumetric metering and depositing of a food product comprising a plurality of particles or flowable particles. The plurality of food particles are transported upon a discharge conveyor having a first rate of speed, the plurality of particles arranged uniformly from passing beneath a product leveling device. When the plurality of particles reach the end of the discharge conveyor, the particles fall from the end of the conveyor under the operation of gravity and are deposited in a shuttle while the shuttle travels at a second rate of speed from a position at least partially below the conveyor to collect the falling particles in cells or receiving receptacles. The relationship between the first rate of speed of the conveyor and the second rate of speed of the shuttle define a metered amount of particles collected in each of the receiving receptacles.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide thermoplastic hoses for an airborne vehicles. The hoses have an inner layer comprised of polyamide and an external layer of polyamide, and the hose is configured to allow the hose to both operate safely under pressures below 55 psi and withstand internal pressures of at least 15 pounds per square inch, and in specific embodiments, at least about 165 pounds per square inch. Specific embodiments of the hoses described are particularly useful on-board helicopters and smaller aircraft.

Abstract: A device and method for filling balloons with a fluid comprising a pressurizable container and a filling head. The device pressurizes a container filled with a fluid and releases the fluid through a barbed nozzle that engages a balloon. To use the device, a user engages a balloon on a barbed nozzle attached to the filling head and pumps a pumping mechanism.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for loading a therapeutic substance or drug within a lumenal space of a hollow wire having a plurality of side openings along a length thereof that forms a hollow drug-eluting stent with a plurality of side drug delivery openings. Loading a drug within the lumenal space of the hollow stent includes a drug filling step, in which the drug is mixed with a solvent or dispersion medium. The lumenal space may be filled with the drug solution or suspension in a reverse fill process and/or a forward fill process. After the drug filling step, a solvent or dispersion medium extracting step is performed to extract the solvent or dispersion medium from within the lumenal space such that only the drug remains within the hollow stent. A stent cleaning step may be performed to an exterior surface of the hollow stent.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for loading a therapeutic substance or drug within a lumenal space of a hollow wire having a plurality of side openings along a length thereof that forms a hollow drug-eluting stent with a plurality of side drug delivery openings. Loading a drug within the lumenal space of the hollow stent includes a drug filling step, in which the drug is mixed with a solvent or dispersion medium. The lumenal space may be filled with the drug solution or suspension in a reverse fill process and/or a forward fill process. After the drug filling step, a solvent or dispersion medium extracting step is performed to extract the solvent or dispersion medium from within the lumenal space such that only the drug remains within the hollow stent. A stent cleaning step may be performed to an exterior surface of the hollow stent.

Abstract: A fuel spill tray according to one embodiment includes a body and an arm extending outwardly away from the body. The body defines an annular channel and a generally central aperture configured to receive a heck of a fuel tank. The arm includes a proximal end integral with the body. The arm also includes a distal end, a first flange, a second flange laterally spaced from the first flange, and a first web integral with each of the first and second flanges. The arm also includes a first upper seal integral with the first flange and a second upper seal laterally spaced from the first upper seal and integral with the first flange. Each of the first and second flanges, the first web arid the first and second upper seals extends longitudinally from the proximal end to the distal end of the arm. Vehicles are also provided.

Abstract: A method for using a fuel distribution network. The method including receiving a fuel reservation request (FRR) from a fuel network user interface module (FNUIM), obtaining a physical location of the FNUIM, determining a user associated with the FRR, and obtaining a list of fuel stations using the physical location and information associated with the user. The method further includes sending, to FNUIM, a list of fuel stations, receiving, from the FNUIM, a selection request specifying a fuel station from the list of fuel stations and a fuel reservation amount specifying an amount of fuel, sending a backend service provider (BSP) reservation request to the fuel station, where the BSP reservation request comprises the fuel reservation amount, and sending a confirmation message comprising a reservation expiration time to the FNUIM.