Computer Patents (Class 126/601)
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Patent number: 11772282Abstract: A fluidic solar actuation system comprising a plurality of fluidic solar actuators that each include a first fluidic inflatable actuator, and a second fluidic inflatable actuator. The system also includes a fluidic routing system configured to covey a fluid originating from a fluid source to: the respective first fluidic inflatable actuators of the plurality of fluidic solar actuators, the first fluidic inflatable actuators ganged so as to be fluidically connected such that the first fluidic inflatable actuators are configured to be inflated together and separate from the second fluidic inflatable actuators, and the respective second fluidic inflatable actuators of the plurality of fluidic solar actuators, the second fluidic inflatable actuators ganged so as to be fluidically connected such that the second fluidic inflatable actuators are configured to be inflated together and separate from the first fluidic inflatable actuators.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2022Date of Patent: October 3, 2023Assignee: SUNFOLDING, INC.Inventors: Saul Griffith, Leila Madrone, Peter S. Lynn, Kevin Simon, James McBride
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Patent number: 11711055Abstract: Techniques for forecasting solar power generation include determining, by a computing device, respective proximity scores for a plurality of measurement devices, wherein the respective proximity scores are based on proximity of the measurement devices to a photovoltaic installation; determining, by the computing device, respective bearing scores for the plurality of measurement devices, wherein the respective bearing scores are based on respective angular offsets between the plurality of measurement devices and an azimuth of the photovoltaic installation; selecting, by the computing device, a first measurement device in the plurality of measurement devices using the respective proximity scores and the respective bearing scores; and predicting, by the computing device, a solar power generation level for the photovoltaic installation based on data obtained from the first measurement device.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2022Date of Patent: July 25, 2023Assignee: ITRON, INC.Inventors: Frank Monforte, Andrew Sukenik
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Patent number: 11522491Abstract: A system including a tracker configured to collect solar irradiance and attached to a rotational mechanism for changing a plane of the tracker and a controller in communication with the rotational mechanism. The controller is programmed to store a plurality of positional and solar tracking information, determine a position of the sun at a first specific point in time, calculate a first angle for the tracker based on the position of the sun, detect an amount of accumulation at the first specific point in time, determine a first maximum range of motion for the tracker based on the amount of accumulation, adjust the first angle for the tracker based on the first maximum range of motion for the tracker, and transmit instructions to the rotational mechanism to change the plane of the tracker to the first adjusted angle.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2020Date of Patent: December 6, 2022Assignee: FTC Solar, Inc.Inventors: Tamilarasan Mouniandy, Nagendra Srinivas Cherukupalli
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Patent number: 11387773Abstract: A heliostat apparatus including: a frame supporting a solar battery panel; a north-south rotation mechanism having an elevation angle rotation axis for rotating the frame in a north-south direction; an east-west rotation mechanism having an azimuth angle rotation axis for rotating the frame in an east-west direction; and a support, where an angle in the north-south direction of a panel surface of the solar battery panel is adjusted by the north-south rotation mechanism; an angle in the east-west direction of the panel surface is adjusted by the east-west rotation mechanism; the elevation angle rotation axis and the azimuth angle rotation axis are in a skew positional relationship; and the frame is held by a truss structure of each of the north-south rotation mechanism and the east-west rotation mechanism. A type of heliostat apparatus that follows the movement of the sun and can hold a solar battery panel stably.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2019Date of Patent: July 12, 2022Assignee: TRESSBIO LABORATORY CO., LTD.Inventor: Yutaka Tamaura
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Patent number: 10985569Abstract: A photovoltaic power station includes, for example, a plurality of solar panels at a first location, the plurality of solar panels operable to provide a maximum power output, a controller operable to supply, from the plurality of solar panels, a predetermined power output less than the maximum power output to an electrical grid, and wherein the photovoltaic power station is operable to maintain, from the plurality of solar panels, a reserve power output to provide the reserve power output to the electrical grid, the reserve power output being the difference between the maximum power output and the predetermined power output.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2017Date of Patent: April 20, 2021Assignee: THE RESEARCH FOUNDATION FOR THE STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORKInventor: Qilong Min
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Patent number: 10812011Abstract: An example solar structure is disclosed for providing shade to a roof of a building having a building support structure. The solar structure may comprise: a plurality of vertical supports; a plurality of connecting beams; and a plurality of solar panels, wherein the plurality of vertical supports couple the load of the solar structure directly to the building support structure. Example methods are disclosed for keeping rooftop equipment cooler and operating more efficiently and longer, for specifying smaller AC units, for extending the life of a roof, for reducing the heat entering a building from sunshine, for reducing the heat re-radiated from solar panels onto a roof, and for specifying smaller structural roof support beams. An example solar structure comprises a movable portion configured to move from a first position to a second position to allow rooftop equipment to be lifted off the roof through the solar structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2019Date of Patent: October 20, 2020Assignees: Strategic Solar Energy, LLC, DBM Global, Inc.Inventors: Clayton Jay Allen, Thomas Headley, Mark Little
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Patent number: 10724764Abstract: A device for concentration of solar radiation in an absorber, said device comprising an inflatable concentrator cushion having a cover film element with a light-permeable entry window for coupling in solar radiation and a reflector film for concentration of solar radiation in an absorber, the reflector film sub-dividing the concentrator cushion into at least two hollow spaces and having a curvature in an inflated state. The device also comprises a pivoting apparatus, with which the concentrator cushion is pivotable, a retaining apparatus secured to the pivoting apparatus, and an adjusting device for adjusting the curvature of the reflector film. The retaining apparatus comprises a lower longitudinal member which is connected to a bottom film element of the concentrator cushion. The adjusting device comprises a tensioning element between the lower longitudinal member and the reflector film, said tensioning element being connected to the reflector film and to the lower longitudinal member.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2015Date of Patent: July 28, 2020Assignee: HELIOVIS AGInventors: Elmar Stoeger, Felix Tiefenbacher
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Patent number: 10557647Abstract: The method is for conveying solar power from a sun. A solar concentrator conveys and concentrates solar power as rays into a glass rod. The solar concentrator has a tapering device disposed at a bottom thereof. The glass rod has a first curved glass loop section, a second curved glass loop section and a straight glass section. The straight glass section has an outer end that is positioned in proximity to a water surface to heat the water. The first loop section is rotated relative to the second loop section at a first gap and the second section is rotated relative to the curved section at a second gap so that the concentrator can follow the path of the sun during the day.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2017Date of Patent: February 11, 2020Assignee: Rodluven Inc.Inventors: Kenneth Nordin, Mats Olof Erik Mattsson
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Patent number: 10514186Abstract: A solar collector assembly (10) comprising a pipe (18) exposed to solar energy adapted to accommodate a fluid flow in such a way that the solar energy is transferred to the fluid, a heat pipe or any other energy guiding system or absorber; a reflector assembly (12) with a curved reflector (14) for focusing solar radiation in the range of the pipe (18), and an actuator (90,64, 80) for moving the reflector assembly (12) in a way that the solar radiation is reflected in the direction of the pipe (12), is characterized in that means (30, 32) are provided for releasably fixing the reflector assembly (12) to the pipe (18), and the actuator (90, 64, 80) is fixed at the reflector assembly (12) or in the reflector assembly (12).Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2014Date of Patent: December 24, 2019Assignee: INNOVATIVE MOTION GMBHInventor: Thomas Leberer
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Patent number: 10309691Abstract: A heliostat correction system includes an image acquisition module for acquiring the image of a celestial body in a field of view and sending the image to a data analysis module which analyzes the deviation value between the celestial body image and the image center in an image coordinate system and transmits the deviation value to a correction calculation module which decomposes the deviation to a corresponding rotation axis according to the rotation mode of a heliostat to obtain the deviation angle of each rotation axis; a data storage module is used to store the correction result of the heliostat and the single correction period control command list of the heliostat; a communication module reads the single correction period control command list from the data storage module, sends the list to the heliostat, and simultaneously controls the image acquisition module to shoot according to the rotation period of the heliostat.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2018Date of Patent: June 4, 2019Assignee: SHANGHAI PARASOL RENEWABLE ENERGY CO., LTDInventors: Nan Sun, Ping Shen, Siliang You, Yuda Chen
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Patent number: 10267538Abstract: The method is for of conveying a solar power. A parabolic reflector receives sunrays that reflects and concentrates the sunrays as light into second reflector that reflects the light into a tapering device. The tapering device conveys the light to a first curved glass rod section. The first curved glass rod section conveying the light to a second curved glass rod section via a gap defined between the ends of the first and second rod sections. The second rod section conveys the light to a third rod section via a second gap. The first rod section is rotated relative to the second rod section and the second rod section is rotated relative to the third rod section so that the parabolic reflector follows a path of the sun.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2017Date of Patent: April 23, 2019Assignee: Rodluvan Inc.Inventors: Kenneth Nordin, Mats Olof Erik Mattsson
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Patent number: 10234173Abstract: The method is for conveying solar power from a sun. A solar concentrator conveys and concentrates solar power as rays into a cable. The solar concentrator has a tapering device disposed at a bottom thereof. The cable has a first curved glass loop section, a second curved glass loop section and a curved section. The curved glass section is connected to a storage unit wherein the light is converted into heat. The first loop section is rotated relative to the second loop section at a first gap and the second section is rotated relative to the curved section at a second gap so that the concentrator can follow the path of the sun during the day.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2016Date of Patent: March 19, 2019Assignee: Rodluvan Inc.Inventors: Kenneth Nordin, Mats Olof Erik Mattsson
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Patent number: 9739505Abstract: The invention is directed to a solar tracking apparatus that with permanent adjustment for latitude and pre-operation seasonal adjustment, when aimed at the Sun, will with rotation alone, track the Sun. The apparatus defines a permanently polar axis aligned shaft which rotates by the force of a weighted hydraulic timed drive continuously or intermittently at a rate simulating the apparent approximate fifteen degree per hour movement of the Sun across the sky. A two-ended carriage is fitted with a Fresnel lens or other solar concentrating or collecting element on one end and a targeted receiver is fitted to the other end. The carriage is adjustably mounted to about twenty three degrees either side of perpendicular to the polar aligned shaft thus focusing and concentrating the solar radiation on a receiving device, which stores the solar energy in the form of heat.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2014Date of Patent: August 22, 2017Inventor: Phillip Rudolph Anich
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Patent number: 9727060Abstract: Motorized system for holding and driving at least one solar energy collector, said system including: a supporting structure for the panel, movable at least in part in relation to the ground, so as to allow controlled displacement of the collector, notably about at least two axes of rotation, at least one blocking member, fixed in relation to the ground, at least one coupling member, movable with the collector and adapted to cooperate with the blocking element in at least one locking position of the collector, in order to hold the collector in the event of extreme winds, the coupling member being able to be moved into the locking position or locking positions as a result of a predefined movement of the collector, from a usual operating position where the coupling member is remote from the blocking member.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2015Date of Patent: August 8, 2017Assignee: MOTEURS LEROY-SOMERInventor: Eric Coupart
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Patent number: 9587858Abstract: A solar collector apparatus includes a parabolic mirror configured to direct solar energy through a double convex lens and towards a linear set of secondary mirrors, each of the secondary mirrors positioned to direct the solar energy towards a solar collection target. The subsequent diversion achieved by the solar collector apparatus allows collection of solar energy several times denser than natural sunlight, and can be captured using a substantially compact system.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2014Date of Patent: March 7, 2017Inventor: Richard M. Lambrecht
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Patent number: 9525355Abstract: A converter system includes a power converter including a first bridge circuit including at least one first switching device. The power converter also includes a second bridge circuit magnetically coupled to the first bridge circuit. The second bridge circuit includes at least one second switching device. The converter system also includes a plurality of first conductors of opposing polarities coupled to the first bridge circuit. The converter system further includes a plurality of second conductors of opposing polarities. At least one second conductor of the plurality of second conductors is coupled to the second bridge circuit. The converter system also includes a third conductor coupled to one first conductor of the plurality of first conductors and coupled to the second bridge circuit.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2015Date of Patent: December 20, 2016Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Mohammed Agamy, Herman Lucas Norbert Wiegman, Rui Zhou, Andrew William Berner
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Patent number: 9312804Abstract: A solar concentrator calibration tool that compensates for inconsistencies in the fabrication, assembly and installation of a solar collector system, permits the solar collector to perform optimally. The calibration tool provides feedback information to a supervisory control processor, allowing the processor to compare the expected position of the sun to the “actual” position found by the calibration tool. The processor then generates a calibration signal, thereafter used by the collector's movement control mechanism, to compensate the tracking of the solar collector to accurately follow the movement of the sun, unconstrained by the effects of the construction inconsistencies.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2015Date of Patent: April 12, 2016Assignee: CEWA TechnologiesInventor: Michael E. Fangman
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Patent number: 9057539Abstract: A method of tracking and collecting solar energy includes receiving solar energy on at least two solar energy receivers, measuring an energy output from each of the at least two solar energy receivers, comparing the energy output from one of the at least two solar energy receiver with the energy output from another of the at least two solar energy receivers, and shifting the at least two solar energy receivers until the energy output from the one of the at least two solar receivers is substantially equal to the another of the at least two solar receivers.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2013Date of Patent: June 16, 2015Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Supratik Guha, Yves C. Martin, Robert L. Sandstrom, Theodore G. van Kessel
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Publication number: 20150128929Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved solar energy concentrating system and to a preferred way of moving the receiver, along a curvilinear path above the mirror surface to the optimal location where the instantaneous concentration of reflected rays is the largest. The system comprises a fixed, trough concentrating collector formed with a concave curvature, shaped as a section of an spiral, oriented along the East-West axis, with a movable receiver, inclined facing South and capable of adjusting the angle of inclination periodically, preferably twice a year. The invention overcomes some of the limitations and is capable of capturing more solar energy, on a more constant basis throughout the year and at a lower cost than the preferred, state-of-the-art, trough parabolic concentrating collectors oriented along the North South axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2013Publication date: May 14, 2015Inventor: Eduardo Saucedo
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Patent number: 9010317Abstract: The invention is a system and method for heliostat mirror control. Here, each heliostat mirror generates a low intensity “signal beam”, directed at an angle off from the heliostat mirror's high intensity and sensor blinding “main beam” of reflected solar energy. The low intensity signal beams may be created by reflecting a small portion of the incident solar light at an angle from the main beam, by reflected artificial light, or from lasers shinning onto mirrors from known locations. The signal beams are detected by optical sensors mounted way from the main heliostat receiver focus, and can be used in a closed loop control system to efficiently ensure that individual heliostat mirrors in a heliostat array accurately track sunlight and direct the sunlight to a central receiver. Because heliostat mirrors need not be taken “off sun” for positioning, the system allows heliostat arrays to be run at high efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2009Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Assignee: IdealabInventor: William Gross
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Patent number: 8931475Abstract: Systems and methods for directly monitoring energy flux of a solar receiver in a solar energy-based power generation system include measuring infrared radiation emanating from the solar receiver. Such measurement can be achieved using one or more infrared thermography detectors, such as an IR camera. Resulting thermal data obtained by the imaging can be used to determine energy flux distribution on the receiver. A user or a system controller can use the determined flux distribution to adjust heliostat aiming to achieve a desired operation condition. For example, heliostats can be adjusted to achieve a uniform energy flux distribution across the external surface of the receiver and/or to maximize heat transfer to a fluid flowing through the receiver within system operating limits.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2009Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Brightsource Industries (Israel) Ltd.Inventors: Yoel Gilon, Ophir Chernin, Gideon Goldwine, Gil Kroyzer, Rotem Hayut, Dan Franck, Israel Kroizer, Ziv Aumann
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Patent number: 8915244Abstract: A protective transparent enclosure (such as a glasshouse or a greenhouse) encloses a concentrated solar power system. The concentrated solar power system includes one or more solar concentrators and one or more solar receivers. Thermal power is provided to an industrial process, electrical power is provided to an electrical distribution grid, or both. In some embodiments, the solar concentrators are parabolic trough concentrators with one or more lateral extensions. In some embodiments, the lateral extension is a unilateral extension of the primary parabolic trough shape. In some embodiments, the lateral extensions are movably connected to the primary portion. In some embodiments, the lateral extensions have a focal line separate from the focal line of the base portion. In some embodiments, the greenhouse is a Dutch Venlo style greenhouse.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2012Date of Patent: December 23, 2014Assignee: Glasspoint Solar, Inc.Inventor: Peter Emery von Behrens
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Publication number: 20140352686Abstract: A solar concentrating system for concentrating sunlight by tracking the sun, including concentrator support structure, an annular track mounted on an upper surface of a base, the center of mass of the concentrator support structure being off-axis relative to curvature center of annular track, enclosures provided at comers and comprising a wheel positioned on the track, the enclosure connected to a piston connected to a guiding element placed on the track; a fastening element that when moved towards the track, the guiding element is fastened to the track, and when the fastening element is moved away from the track, the guiding element is released, when the first piston elongates or contracts, the first guiding element is fastened to the track, the second guiding element is released, the wheels of the enclosures rotate from a first location on the track to a second location, thereby rotating the concentrator support structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2013Publication date: December 4, 2014Inventors: Yanir Blumenthal, Thomas Keck, Wolfgang Schiel, Hristo Zlatanov
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Patent number: 8881720Abstract: A system and method for providing real time control of a heliostat array or CPV/PV module that reduces actuation cost, the disclosure reduces the fixed cost of calibrating and repositioning an individual surface. This simultaneously removes the core engineering assumption that drives the development of large trackers, and enables a system and method to cost effectively track a small surface. In addition to lower initial capital cost, a small heliostat or solar tracker can be pre-assembled, mass-produced, and shipped more easily. Smaller mechanisms can also be installed with simple hand tools and do not require installers to rent expensive cranes or installation equipment.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2011Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: QBotix, Inc.Inventor: Thomas Currier
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Publication number: 20140251315Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for periodic orientation of arrays of mechanically linked heliostats positioned on rotatable shafts such that incident sunlight is focused on a stationary object. In each altitudinal orientation a minuscule predefined push is given by an actuator and the time interval between each altitudinal orientation is 2×(T2?T1)/n. For azimuthal reorientation, the magnitude of rotation of rotatable shafts is determined by (Y×Sin ?)/2 degrees, and as per the position of the sun in the sky, the determined magnitude in degrees is added/subtracted to form angle ??. The length ‘C’ of the linear actuator with its arm at angle ? can be extended/retracted to length ‘C1’ such that angle ?? is achieved, wherein an arm affixed with each rotatable shaft and coupled with a linear actuator provides the ability to rotate the rotatable shaft in clockwise or anticlockwise direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2014Publication date: September 11, 2014Inventors: Rajeev Pandit, Ravindra Patwardhan
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Publication number: 20140174430Abstract: A method of calibrating a mirror orientation system of a heliostat includes mounting an artificial light source to a heliostat mirror, providing an array of light sensors on a solar thermal tower and positioning the heliostat mirror at a first orientation. A control module is provided a signal indicative of a mirror drive mechanism position at the first mirror orientation. The control module correlates the signal indicative of the mechanism position with an energy distribution across the sensor array as the artificial light source is energized when the mirror is at the first orientation. The drive mechanism moves the mirror to a second orientation and directs artificial light on the sensor array. The drive mechanism position signal is correlated with an energy distribution across the sensor array based on the second mirror orientation. The heliostat is calibrated based on the energy distributions and the drive mechanism position signals.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2013Publication date: June 26, 2014Inventors: Brian M. Fitzgerald, John D. Zalewski, Peter M. Jacobsen, Franz Faschinger, Richard A. Bakowski, Philipp Ebner, David W. Wenthen, Burke Smith
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Publication number: 20140166077Abstract: Embodiments of a system and method for collecting electromagnetic radiation are disclosed. One embodiment of a solar concentration system comprises at least one collector panel, the panel comprising a frame and a plurality of moveable reflector elements mounted therewithin, the plurality of movable reflector elements configured to rotate in unison about a set of parallel first axes and in unison about a second axis relative to an electromagnetic radiation source. The system further comprises at least one receiver comprising a support member and a plurality of energy conversion cells positioned along the support member, each energy conversion cell having an electromagnetic radiation concentrator protruding therefrom, the concentrator comprising an optical element and an entry aperture at a distal end thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2013Publication date: June 19, 2014Applicant: Skyven Technologies, LLCInventor: Arun K. Gupta
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Patent number: 8739775Abstract: Adherence to flux or resultant measurable parameter limits, ranges, or patterns can be achieved by directing heliostat mounted mirrors to focus on aiming points designated on the surface of a solar receiver. Different heliostats can be directed to different aiming points, and a heliostat can be directed to different aiming points at different times. The cumulative flux distribution resulting from directing a plurality of heliostats to any aiming point on a receiver surface can be predicted by using statistical methods to calculate the expected beam projection for each individual heliostat or alternatively for a group of heliostats. Control of the heliostats in a solar power system can include designating aiming points on a receiver from time to time and assigning heliostats to aiming points from time to time in accordance with an optimization goal.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2009Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Brightsource Industries (Israel) Ltd.Inventors: Gil Kroyzer, Rotem Hayut
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Publication number: 20140116419Abstract: The invention relates to a tower-type system (11) for concentrating and capturing thermosolar energy, comprising a tower (13) having a fixed part (81) and a movable part (82), wherein the movable part ascends or descends along a shaft of the tower (13) and is provided with a gondola (83) that can perform azimuthal rotation, and wherein an assembly of heliostats (12) that can move around the tower (13) direct the solar radiation toward a panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2011Publication date: May 1, 2014Applicants: CENTRO TECNOLÓGICO AVANZADO DE ENERGÍAS RENOVABLES DE ANDALUCÍA (CTAER), UNIVERSIDAD DE SEVILLAInventors: Valeriano Ruíz Hernández, Isidoro Lillo Bravo, Manuel Antonio Silva Pérez, Gonzalo Lobo Márquez, Francisco Díaz Andrades, Enrique Del Pozo Polidoro
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Publication number: 20140083413Abstract: Shading by clouds can affect the amount of flux on a heliostat which in turn can affect the energy generated by the solar device. Real-time monitoring of cloud shading of at least a portion of the solar field can allow for more efficient operation of the entire solar power system. For example, diffuse solar radiation and global horizontal radiation may be measured in certain parts of the field in order to estimate the direct normal radiation at any point in the solar field. A cloud map generated based on an image taken of the cloud may be used in calculating the direct normal radiation. By knowing the amount of direct normal radiation at any point in the solar field, the solar energy system can be changed or maintained. For example, the operating parameter may include aiming directions for one or more of the heliostats.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2013Publication date: March 27, 2014Applicant: BrightSource Industries (ISRAEL) Ltd.Inventors: Ofir BIBI, Rotem HAYUT, Gil KROYZER
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Patent number: 8662072Abstract: A solar collector is provided with a reflective panel assembly that is supported by a frame and pivots about a first horizontal axis. The panel assembly is configured for reflecting sunlight to a common focal point, and includes a central panel and a pair of outer panels each pivotally coupled to the central panel and configured for folding over the central panel. A collector assembly is mounted relative to the frame and pivotal about a second horizontal axis. The collector assembly is configured for collecting solar energy and includes a receiver that is positioned at the focal point. The receiver is configured for extracting energy from the reflected sunlight. The solar collector may also include a four-bar linkage assembly for supporting the panel assembly and the collector assembly during movement from a collapsed position and a partially extended position.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2009Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Inventors: Barry L. Butler, Roger L. Davenport, John E. Nemazi
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Patent number: 8644995Abstract: Various methods and apparatus are described for a photovoltaic system. In an embodiment, a method for performing auto-configuration of a concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) array installed in a solar site having multiple CPV arrays. The central backend management system sends auto-configuration files over the Internet to each of the two-axis tracking mechanisms installed at the solar site based upon the GPS coordinates of each of the two-axis tracking mechanisms and that two-axis tracking mechanism's relative position in the layout of the two-axis tracking mechanisms located at the solar site.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2011Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Western Gas and Electric CompanyInventors: Brian Hinman, Roeland Vandevelde
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Publication number: 20130306057Abstract: A method and system is provided whereby heliostats in a solar power plant may be calibrated without being aimed away from the receiver. The heliostats may be moved through a calibration path different from their operational path. The calibration path may start from any point along the operational path of the heliostat and may move the reflected sunlight from the heliostat across a portion of the solar receiver. Individual power generation receiver modules may be monitored to detect changes in output as the calibration path takes the heliostat reflection across various receiver modules.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2012Publication date: November 21, 2013Inventor: Michael Gerard Blum
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Patent number: 8578928Abstract: The invention relates to improvements in orientable solar panel array systems of the type of solar panel arrays comprising a plurality of panels (1) for capturing solar radiation, arranged on a bearing structure pivotally assembled with respect to a horizontal tube (3), which in turn is rotatably assembled on the end of a support column (2), the structure bearing the panels (1) comprising two parallel trusses (4) on which trusses a series of longitudinal profiles with a C-shaped cross-section are transversely arranged, on which longitudinal profiles sliding profiles (6) with a square cross-section having an open groove in the upper part are perpendicularly arranged, on which sliding profiles the panels (1) are fastened.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2009Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Talleres Clavijo, S.L.Inventor: Ruben Clavijo Lumbreras
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Publication number: 20130284162Abstract: A solar energy collector including a solar energy receiver defining a primary target; and a field of heliostats mounted for angular adjustment to receive and direct sunlight to the primary target and an actuator to effect the angular adjustment of each heliostat. A secondary target at or spaced from the primary target. A controller coupled to the actuator configured to sequentially cause, a temporary angular adjustment of the respective the heliostats so as to divert the beam of sunlight received at each heliostat to the secondary target for a predetermined period of time. A recorder to record a representation of each diverted beam at the secondary target. The controller is coupled to the recorder and further configured to respond to the representation of the diverted beam for the respective heliostats when a parameter deviates from norm, by activating the actuator to angularly adjust the corresponding heliostat.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2011Publication date: October 31, 2013Applicant: Limestone Avenue CampbellInventor: Alexander Ian Burton
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Publication number: 20130255666Abstract: A solar collection system includes a double parabolic reflector and a light trap. The solar collection system also includes a lens configured to receive light from the double parabolic reflector and focus the reflected light into the light trap. The system may be configured to resist seismic activity and extreme weather conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2012Publication date: October 3, 2013Inventor: Virgil Dewitt Perryman
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Patent number: 8528541Abstract: A mirror or other reflecting surface is used for collecting and reflecting incident solar radiation. The mirror is supported for independent motion about a pair of axes. An accelerometer generates signals representative of an amount and direction of motion of the mirror about each of the axes. Motors or other drive mechanisms independently drive the mirror about each of the axes. A tracking device provides information about the current position of the Sun. A control is connected to the accelerometer, the motors and the tracking device for maintaining a predetermined optimum orientation of the mirror as the Sun moves across the sky.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2006Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Seesean, Inc.Inventors: Mark S. Olsson, Ransom H. Byers
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Patent number: 8522773Abstract: The disclosed invention is a solar tracker that is a simple 2 axis system that can be powered with integrated stepping motors and lead screw actuators that provides the necessary structural support and 2 degrees of freedom in the motion of the solar collector, to increase the electrical output of the system. Since the solution is designed for use with only one solar panel the mechanical forces such as wind load are much lower and easier to manage. The disclosed invention is also a solar tracker that is a single axis version where the base is fixed and the elevation is set at an average value for the location and pivoting mechanism operates the azimuth axis. Since the dominant energy improvement comes from tracking the azimuth, this would be a likely solution where a lower cost or less complex system is desired.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2009Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Texas Instruments Austin IncorporatedInventor: Steven M. Meyer
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Publication number: 20130192585Abstract: A protective transparent enclosure (such as a glasshouse or a greenhouse) encloses a concentrated solar power system. The concentrated solar power system includes one or more solar concentrators and one or more solar receivers. Thermal power is provided to an industrial process, electrical power is provided to an electrical distribution grid, or both. In some embodiments, the solar concentrators are parabolic trough concentrators with one or more lateral extensions. In some embodiments, the lateral extension is a unilateral extension of the primary parabolic trough shape. In some embodiments, the lateral extensions are movably connected to the primary portion. In some embodiments, the lateral extensions have a focal line separate from the focal line of the base portion. In some embodiments, the greenhouse is a Dutch Venlo style greenhouse.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2012Publication date: August 1, 2013Applicant: GLASSPOINT SOLAR, INC.Inventor: Glasspoint Solar, Inc.
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Patent number: 8490619Abstract: A solar energy alignment and collection system includes at least two solar energy receivers having a central focal point, with each of the at least two solar energy receivers generating an energy output. An actuation system is operatively coupled to the at least two solar energy receivers and is configured and disposed to shift the solar energy receivers along at least one axis. A control system, operatively linked to the solar receivers and the actuation system, senses the energy output of each solar energy receiver and shifts the actuation system along the at least one axis causing solar energy to be directed at the central focal point. When solar energy is directed at the central focal point, the energy output of each solar energy receiver is substantially identical.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2009Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Supratik Guha, Yves C. Martin, Robert L. Sandstrom, Theodore G. van Kessel
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METHODS FOR ORIENTATION AND TILT IDENTIFICATION OF PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS AND SOLAR IRRADIANCE SENSORS
Publication number: 20130152998Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and systems for identifying PV system and solar irradiance sensor orientation and tilt based on energy production, energy received, simulated energy production, estimated energy received, production skew, and energy received skew. The present invention relates to systems and methods for detecting orientation and tilt of a PV system based on energy production and simulated energy production; for detecting the orientation and tilt of a solar irradiance sensor based on solar irradiance observation and simulated solar irradiance observation; for detecting orientation of a PV system based on energy production and energy production skew; and for detecting orientation of a solar irradiance sensor based on solar irradiance observation and solar irradiance observation skew.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2012Publication date: June 20, 2013Inventors: Michael Herzig, Matthew Williams, Shawn Kerrigan -
Publication number: 20130139804Abstract: A solar energy collection system can include a plurality of heliostats configured to reflect sunlight to a target mounted on a tower. Each of the heliostats can have a heliostat controller configured to control a respective heliostat so that the sunlight reflected therefrom is directed to at least one of a plurality of cameras. The cameras can be oriented to image the heliostat. A second controller can be configured to compute geometry data that defines a geometry of the surface of the heliostat from captured images thereof. The geometry data can designate a plurality of subsections of the surface. The computing by the second controller can include storing data indicating sections of the captured images corresponding to the plurality of subsections of the heliostat. The second controller can also calculate data indicating respective surface normals of each of said subsections of each of said heliostat.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2012Publication date: June 6, 2013Applicant: BRIGHTSOURCE INDUSTRIES (ISRAEL) LTD.Inventor: BRIGHTSOURCE INDUSTRIES (ISRAEL) LTD.
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Publication number: 20130133640Abstract: In a solar concentrator of a type having a curved mirror adapted to focus light onto an energy collecting body mounted at the mirror's focal axis, an alignment correction apparatus and method includes a linear array of light detectors adapted to be mounted at a bottom of and across a centerline of the curved mirror so as to intercept the shadow cast by the energy collecting body mounted along the focal axis. Outputs of each of the detectors are measured and plotted according to an order of arrangement of the light detectors on the array. The output results in a dip across adjacent detectors when a shadow falls across the array. A shadow detection means is adapted to determine a center point of the dip and correction means are configured to output a correction command if the center point is different from an optimal position.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2011Publication date: May 30, 2013Applicant: U.S. DIGITAL CORPORATIONInventors: David Madore, Leonard Lee, Eric Martin
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Publication number: 20130112188Abstract: Embodiments of a solar reflector assembly and methods of controlling a solar reflector assembly are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2012Publication date: May 9, 2013Inventor: Glenn A. Reynolds
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Patent number: 8434472Abstract: An apparatus is provided for the collection and conversion of light energy. The apparatus includes, a sandwich core structure, a collector element and a concentrator including one or more reflector elements and positioned at an exterior surface of the sandwich core structure.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2009Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: CellTech Metals, Inc.Inventors: Gordon N. Hanson, Fabien Ebnoether, Clifford Delmage
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Patent number: 8430090Abstract: A two-axis solar tracker apparatus is disclosed having multiple dish-shaped monolithic reflectors for concentrating sunlight. The dish-shaped monolithic reflectors are co-axially aligned in an array supported by a moveable frame. The moveable frame forms the elevation structure of a two-axis tracker that has control means for following the movement of the sun across the sky. Each dish-shaped monolithic reflector produces a region of concentrated sunlight suitable for generation of solar energy. A generator is positioned at the focus of each reflector. A preferred generator uses photovoltaic cells to generate electricity at a high output power due to the high solar power input that is directed to the generator by the dish-shaped monolithic reflector.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2009Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents on Behalf of University of ArizonaInventors: Roger P Angel, Warren B Davison
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Publication number: 20130092155Abstract: A focal display panel is situated in a parabolic solar energy collection array having reflective surfaces and a tube containing a working fluid to be heated. The panel comprises a target area to display patterns of light and shadow reflected from the array, and provides a visual means for determining the amount, if any, by which the focal point of the parabolic array misses the center of the tube containing the heated working fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 14, 2011Publication date: April 18, 2013Applicant: Florida Power & Light CompanyInventors: Matthew B. McCord, Thomas Matlosz, Michael Forsythe
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Publication number: 20130074825Abstract: A solar heater has a light collector which collects light incident on the light collector into a beam that extends along a beam axis. A plurality of thermally conductive plates is arranged along the beam axis, each of the plates having an aperture on the beam axis. For each plate, the aperture of the plate is smaller than apertures of all plates disposed between each plate and the light collector along said beam axis. A fluid pathway is associated with one or more of the plates for transferring heat to a fluid in the fluid pathway. In a related method of heating a fluid, light rays are collected into a beam and passed through progressively smaller apertures in a plurality of serially arranged plates such that a portion of the beam is incident on each one of said plates. The fluid is thermally contacted with the plates.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Inventor: ROBERT WILLIAM MASTRONARDI
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Patent number: 8390234Abstract: A method for automated startup and/or for automated operation of controllers of an electrical drive system with vibrational mechanics with the following steps: (a) determining a preliminary value of at least one parameter; (b) determining a model of the electrical drive system by determination of initially a non-parameterized model through the recording of frequency data during operation of the drive system subject to the utilization of the preliminary value of at least one parameter and the subsequent determination of parameters of the electrical drive system based on the frequency data and subject to optimization of at least one preliminary value of at least one parameter by a numerical optimization method on the basis of the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm and (c) parameterizing at least one controller of the electrical drive system by at least one of the determined parameters.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2010Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Baumuller Nurnberg GmbHInventor: Sebastian Villwock
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Publication number: 20130047609Abstract: A solar tower system including an array of individually controlled carousel-type heliostats, where each heliostat includes a rotatable D-shaped carousel, a mirror array including horizontal, elongated flat mirrors supported in a tiltable (e.g., louvered) arrangement on the carousel, and a mirror positioning system that is disposed next to the carousel and controls the tilt position of each mirror and a rotational position of the carousel to reflect light onto a solar receiver. The heliostats are arranged in a closely-spaced (e.g., square or hexagonal) pattern that both maximizes the effective ground coverage ratio of solar power harvesting system and facilitates the formation of service pathways that allow access to any of the heliostats in the array (e.g., by aligning the straight peripheral wall portions of adjacent carousels in parallel with each other).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2011Publication date: February 28, 2013Applicant: Palo Alto Research Center IncorporatedInventors: Philipp H. Schmaelzle, Patrick C. Cheung