Patents Examined by Eric Chatman
  • Patent number: 4868379
    Abstract: A control system for maximizing the power supplied by an array of solar cells senses the current and voltage produced and multiplies these to determine the instantaneous power. The array is tilted slightly in a first direction and the effect on the instantaneous power is noted. If an increase in power was produced, a further movement in the same direction is executed; but if the first movement produced a reduction in power, a movement in the opposite direction is executed. The process continues until no increase in power is obtained in either direction. Thereafter, the same process is carried out with respect to a second axis of the solar array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1989
    Assignee: Utility Power Group
    Inventor: Rick West