Abstract: A product and a process for encapsulating solar cells in a module using transparent plastics and an optically coupling fluid. A photovoltaic window device of a construction that enables generation of electric power while simultaneously affording transparency.

Abstract: Techniques for DC-to-AC conversion are disclosed, and may be embodied in a solar inverter device that can operatively couple to a power grid. The device includes a photovoltaic (PV) stack including series-connected PV modules. Each PV module is associated with a capacitor for storing output of that PV module. A positive terminator circuit switches a negative end of the PV stack to ground during positive half of grid cycle, and a negative terminator switches a positive end of the PV stack to ground during negative half of grid cycle. A connecting branch couples each PV module output to a common bus, each branch including control circuitry configured to selectively couple the corresponding PV module output to bus. During a first half of grid cycle, some of the capacitors discharge to the grid while a balance of the capacitors charge in preparation for discharge during a second half of grid cycle.

Abstract: Techniques for DC-to-AC conversion are disclosed, and may be embodied in a solar inverter device that can operatively couple to a power grid. The device includes a photovoltaic (PV) stack including series-connected PV modules. Each PV module is associated with a capacitor for storing output of that PV module. A positive terminator circuit switches a negative end of the PV stack to ground during positive half of grid cycle, and a negative terminator switches a positive end of the PV stack to ground during negative half of grid cycle. A connecting branch couples each PV module output to a common bus, each branch including control circuitry configured to selectively couple the corresponding PV module output to bus. During a first half of grid cycle, some of the capacitors discharge to the grid while a balance of the capacitors charge in preparation for discharge during a second half of grid cycle.

Abstract: Techniques for DC-to-AC conversion are disclosed, and may be embodied in a solar inverter device that can operatively couple to a power grid. The device includes a photovoltaic (PV) stack including series-connected PV modules. Each PV module is associated with a capacitor for storing output of that PV module. A positive terminator circuit switches a negative end of the PV stack to ground during positive half of grid cycle, and a negative terminator switches a positive end of the PV stack to ground during negative half of grid cycle. A connecting branch couples each PV module output to a common bus, each branch including control circuitry configured to selectively couple the corresponding PV module output to bus. During a first half of grid cycle, some of the capacitors discharge to the grid while a balance of the capacitors charge in preparation for discharge during a second half of grid cycle.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for reducing or eliminating the need for an intermediate supporting rack in a solar panel installation, which in turn may lower the cost of the installation. In one exemplary embodiment, a mount design is provided that includes a mounting flange attached to or integrally formed with a first side of a solar panel frame. This first side and flange operate together with a second side of the solar panel frame that is designed to engage with the mounting flange and first side of an adjacent solar panel. The geometry of the first and second sides may be such that they engage upon installation. The engagement may further include pins or similar components protruding from one side of one solar panel to fit into corresponding holes in a side of an adjacent panel.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a device for concentrating light onto a photovoltaic target. In one embodiment, the device may include a transparent concentrating lens having an outside surface and a top and bottom portion wherein the bottom portion may be configured to receive concentrated light. A photovoltaic strip including a conducting strip are then provided along with film adhered to at least a portion of the outside surface of the concentrating lens wherein the film engages the lens and positions the photovoltaic strip at the lens bottom portion. A dielectric fluid may then be located between the lens and the film.

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed that facilitate the manufacturability, mechanical integrity, and performance of photovoltaic devices and assemblies. One embodiment includes assembling concentrating lenses into a structural frame such that the lenses are aligned and mechanically secure both during and upon completion of the assembly. Another embodiment includes a method of assembly where an optical coupling material is injected into a cavity within a concentrating lens that encloses a photovoltaic material. Another embodiment includes a method of assembly that creates an enclosed busway within a rail supporting the concentrating lenses, wherein a clamping cover serves to mechanically lock or otherwise secure the lenses to the supporting rail while at the same time serves as a section of the rail assembly that encloses the busway for the electrical wiring and interconnections.

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for protecting a photovoltaic device from the environment. An electrical interconnection is also provided for increased mechanical and electrical protection of the photovoltaic and electrical interconnections between lens cell assemblies configured in an array using an enclosed busway structure. Also provided is a method of leading the electrical contacts from the photovoltaic material within the lens cell assembly such that there is a positive seal provided by the lens encapsulating material. One such embodiment comprises a passage within the lens itself, which serves as a conduit for electrical leads from the photovoltaic material. The internal passage for electrical leads enables the ability to completely wrap and seal the lens assembly with encapsulating film, which in combination with an enclosed busway operatively coupling an array of lens assemblies, allows for a highly manufacturable and secure seal over the photovoltaic system.

Abstract: Techniques for DC-to-AC conversion are disclosed, and may be embodied in a solar inverter device that can operatively couple to a power grid. The device includes a photovoltaic (PV) stack including series-connected PV modules. Each PV module is associated with a capacitor for storing output of that PV module. A positive terminator circuit switches a negative end of the PV stack to ground during positive half of grid cycle, and a negative terminator switches a positive end of the PV stack to ground during negative half of grid cycle. A connecting branch couples each PV module output to a common bus, each branch including control circuitry configured to selectively couple the corresponding PV module output to bus. During a first half of grid cycle, some of the capacitors discharge to the grid while a balance of the capacitors charge in preparation for discharge during a second half of grid cycle.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a device for concentrating light onto a photovoltaic target. In one embodiment, the device may include a transparent concentrating lens having an outside surface and a top and bottom portion wherein the bottom portion may be configured to receive concentrated light. A photovoltaic strip including a conducting strip are then provided along with film adhered to at least a portion of the outside surface of the concentrating lens wherein the film engages the lens and positions the photovoltaic strip at the lens bottom portion. A dielectric fluid may then be located between the lens and the film.