Patents by Inventor Brian Edward Atchley
Brian Edward Atchley has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 11658470Abstract: A cable passthrough includes a first layer having a first edge and an aperture, and a second layer overlapping the first layer. The passthrough is configured to be installed on a roof deck, such that the aperture is configured to align with an aperture formed within the roof deck. The passthrough is configured to receive at least one cable having a first end and a second end. The second end of the cable is capable of extending outwardly from the first edge of the first layer and the first edge of the second layer of the passthrough. The cable is configured to be positioned intermediate the first layer and the second layer.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2021Date of Patent: May 23, 2023Assignee: GAF Energy LLCInventors: Thierry Nguyen, Evan Wray, Duncan Cleminshaw, Ryan Lemon Devine, Jonathan Hewlett, Brian Edward Atchley
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Publication number: 20230018614Abstract: A roof integrated photovoltaic system includes a starter bar having a foot base and configured to be installed to a roof deck, a plurality of water shedding layers, and a photovoltaic module. One of the plurality of water shedding layers is configured to be installed over the foot base of the starter bar, and one of another of which is configured to overlap and be installed over the one of the plurality of water shedding layers. The system further includes a foot module configured to be attached to an upper portion of the photovoltaic module. A lower portion of the photovoltaic module is configured to align with the foot base of the starter bar, and the foot module is configured to be affixed on a last overlapping layer of the plurality of water shedding layers to the roof deck.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2022Publication date: January 19, 2023Inventors: Brian Edward Atchley, Peter Clemente, Nazar Dzoba, Anthony Folk, Amy Ochsenrieter, Daniel East
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Patent number: 11451188Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays with improved aesthetics and efficiency that can replace a conventional roof surface structure. These BIPV systems can utilize photovoltaic PV roof tiles defined as glass tiles having photovoltaic elements embedded or incorporated into the body of the roof tile. Such PV roof tiles can include one or more lapping features for interfacing with adjacent tiles and features for electrically connecting multiples tiles within a course to an external power optimizer. Such PV roof tiles can utilize stamped glass that is stamped to define these features within an integrated glass tile and can further include texture, striations on the glass tile and/or color matched back layers or various other components to obscure visibility of any embedded solar cells and provide a more pleasing appearance.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2020Date of Patent: September 20, 2022Assignee: Tesla, Inc.Inventors: Charles Bernardo Almy, Brian Edward Atchley, Garret Anthony Bautista
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Patent number: 11398795Abstract: A roof integrated photovoltaic system includes a starter bar having a foot base and configured to be installed to a roof deck, a plurality of water shedding layers, and a photovoltaic module. One of the plurality of water shedding layers is configured to be installed over the foot base of the starter bar, and one of another of which is configured to overlap and be installed over the one of the plurality of water shedding layers. The system further includes a foot module configured to be attached to an upper portion of the photovoltaic module. A lower portion of the photovoltaic module is configured to align with the foot base of the starter bar, and the foot module is configured to be affixed on a last overlapping layer of the plurality of water shedding layers to the roof deck.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2020Date of Patent: July 26, 2022Assignee: GAF Energy LLCInventors: Brian Edward Atchley, Peter Clemente, Nazar Dzoba, Anthony Folk, Amy Ochsenrieter, Daniel East
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Publication number: 20220216680Abstract: A cable passthrough includes a first layer having a first edge and an aperture, and a second layer overlapping the first layer. The passthrough is configured to be installed on a roof deck, such that the aperture is configured to align with an aperture formed within the roof deck. The passthrough is configured to receive at least one cable having a first end and a second end. The second end of the cable is capable of extending outwardly from the first edge of the first layer and the first edge of the second layer of the passthrough. The cable is configured to be positioned intermediate the first layer and the second layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2021Publication date: July 7, 2022Inventors: Thierry Nguyen, Evan Wray, Duncan Cleminshaw, Ryan Lemon Devine, Jonathan Hewlett, Brian Edward Atchley
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Publication number: 20210359499Abstract: A cable passthrough includes a first layer having a first edge and an aperture, and a second layer overlapping the first layer. The passthrough is configured to be installed on a roof deck, such that the aperture is configured to align with an aperture formed within the roof deck. The passthrough is configured to receive at least one cable having a first end and a second end. The second end of the cable is capable of extending outwardly from the first edge of the first layer and the first edge of the second layer of the passthrough. The cable is configured to be positioned intermediate the first layer and the second layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2021Publication date: November 18, 2021Inventors: Thierry Nguyen, Evan Wray, Duncan Cleminshaw, Ryan Lemon Devine, Jonathan Hewlett, Brian Edward Atchley
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Patent number: 11177639Abstract: A cable passthrough includes a first layer having a first edge and an aperture, and a second layer overlapping the first layer. The passthrough is configured to be installed on a roof deck, such that the aperture is configured to align with an aperture formed within the roof deck. The passthrough is configured to receive at least one cable having a first end and a second end. The second end of the cable is capable of extending outwardly from the first edge of the first layer and the first edge of the second layer of the passthrough. The cable is configured to be positioned intermediate the first layer and the second layer.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2021Date of Patent: November 16, 2021Assignee: GAF Energy LLCInventors: Thierry Nguyen, Evan Wray, Duncan Cleminshaw, Ryan Lemon Devine, Jonathan Hewlett, Brian Edward Atchley
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Publication number: 20210194411Abstract: A roof integrated photovoltaic system includes a starter bar having a foot base and configured to be installed to a roof deck, a plurality of water shedding layers, and a photovoltaic module. One of the plurality of water shedding layers is configured to be installed over the foot base of the starter bar, and one of another of which is configured to overlap and be installed over the one of the plurality of water shedding layers. The system further includes a foot module configured to be attached to an upper portion of the photovoltaic module. A lower portion of the photovoltaic module is configured to align with the foot base of the starter bar, and the foot module is configured to be affixed on a last overlapping layer of the plurality of water shedding layers to the roof deck.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2020Publication date: June 24, 2021Inventors: Brian Edward Atchley, Peter Clemente, Nazar Dzoba, Anthony Folk, Amy Ochsenrieter, Daniel East
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Publication number: 20200373876Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays with improved aesthetics and efficiency that can replace a conventional roof surface structure. These BIPV systems can utilize photovoltaic PV roof tiles defined as glass tiles having photovoltaic elements embedded or incorporated into the body of the roof tile. Such PV roof tiles can include one or more lapping features for interfacing with adjacent tiles and features for electrically connecting multiples tiles within a course to an external power optimizer. Such PV roof tiles can utilize stamped glass that is stamped to define these features within an integrated glass tile and can further include texture, striations on the glass tile and/or color matched back layers or various other components to obscure visibility of any embedded solar cells and provide a more pleasing appearance.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2020Publication date: November 26, 2020Inventors: Charles Bernardo ALMY, Brian Edward ATCHLEY, Garret Anthony BAUTISTA
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Patent number: 10790777Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays that can be aesthetically pleasing to an observer. BIPV systems can be incorporated as part of roof surfaces as built into the structure of the roof, particularly as roofing modules that have photovoltaic elements embedded or incorporated into the body of the module, in distinct tiles-sized areas. The use of modules that replicate the look of individual roofing tiles (or shingles) can lead to a more efficient installation process. Further, modules can include flexible joints between the distinct tiles-sized areas, across which solar cells within the module are electrically connected. The flexibility granted to the modules also makes installation easier, and further improves the fatigue and strain resistance of the overall solar array for its operational life.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2017Date of Patent: September 29, 2020Assignee: Tesla, Inc.Inventors: Brian Edward Atchley, Andreas Meisel, Daniel Preston Flanigan, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson
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Patent number: 10778139Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays with improved aesthetics and efficiency that can replace a conventional roof surface structure. These BIPV systems can utilize photovoltaic PV roof tiles defined as glass tiles having photovoltaic elements embedded or incorporated into the body of the roof tile. Such PV roof tiles can include one or more lapping features for interfacing with adjacent tiles and features for electrically connecting multiples tiles within a course to an external power optimizer. Such PV roof tiles can utilize stamped glass that is stamped to define these features within an integrated glass tile and can further include texture, striations on the glass tile and/or color matched back layers or various other components to obscure visibility of any embedded solar cells and provide a more pleasing appearance.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2017Date of Patent: September 15, 2020Assignee: Tesla, Inc.Inventors: Charles Bernardo Almy, Brian Edward Atchley, Garret Anthony Bautista
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Patent number: 10742165Abstract: A photovoltaic (PV) module sub-circuit for an energy generation system includes a plurality of PV sub-modules coupled together via external cables, the plurality of PV sub-modules includes a first PV sub-module and a second PV sub-module, a negative output terminal coupled to the first PV sub-module, a positive output terminal coupled to the second PV sub-module, and a plurality of connectors external to the PV sub-modules and coupling the PV sub-modules together to form the PV module sub-circuit. The sub-circuit further includes a bypass mechanism including a first terminal coupled to only the negative output terminal and the first PV sub-module, and a second terminal coupled to only the positive output terminal and the second PV sub-module, the bypass mechanism configured to prevent current flow in a first direction and allow current flow in a second direction opposite of the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2017Date of Patent: August 11, 2020Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Brian Edward Atchley, David Molina, Steve Pisklak, Johann Fritz Karkheck, Greg Ball
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Publication number: 20190058436Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays that can be aesthetically pleasing to an observer. BIPV systems can be incorporated as part of roof surfaces as built into the structure of the roof, particularly as roofing modules that have photovoltaic elements embedded or incorporated into the body of the module, in distinct tiles-sized areas. The use of modules that replicate the look of individual roofing tiles (or shingles) can lead to a more efficient installation process. Further, modules can include flexible joints between the distinct tiles-sized areas, across which solar cells within the module are electrically connected. The flexibility granted to the modules also makes installation easier, and further improves the fatigue and strain resistance of the overall solar array for its operational life.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2017Publication date: February 21, 2019Inventors: Brian Edward Atchley, Andreas Meisel, Daniel Preston Flanigan, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson
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Publication number: 20190020306Abstract: A photovoltaic (PV) module sub-circuit for an energy generation system includes a plurality of PV sub-modules coupled together via external cables, the plurality of PV sub-modules includes a first PV sub-module and a second PV sub-module, a negative output terminal coupled to the first PV sub-module, a positive output terminal coupled to the second PV sub-module, and a plurality of connectors external to the PV sub-modules and coupling the PV sub-modules together to form the PV module sub-circuit. The sub-circuit further includes a bypass mechanism including a first terminal coupled to only the negative output terminal and the first PV sub-module, and a second terminal coupled to only the positive output terminal and the second PV sub-module, the bypass mechanism configured to prevent current flow in a first direction and allow current flow in a second direction opposite of the first direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2017Publication date: January 17, 2019Inventors: Brian Edward Atchley, David Molina, Steve Pisklak, Johann Fritz Karkheck, Greg Ball
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Publication number: 20180130921Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays that can be aesthetically pleasing and appear seamless to an observer. Micro louvered structures can be incorporated into photovoltaic (PV) stacks, such that light entering a PV stack that is reflected off of embedded solar cells is not directed out at angles at which a typical observer would normally view the PV stack or roof on which a solar array is installed. Further, portions of the micro louvered structures can be coated with reflective, refractive, dielectric, and/or colored films such that underlying solar cells within the PV stack are obscured from the sightlines of a typical observer.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2017Publication date: May 10, 2018Inventors: Alex Christopher Mayer, Brian Edward Atchley, Andreas Meisel
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Publication number: 20180123504Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays with improved aesthetics and efficiency that can replace a conventional roof surface structure. These BIPV systems can utilize photovoltaic PV roof tiles defined as glass tiles having photovoltaic elements embedded or incorporated into the body of the roof tile. Such PV roof tiles can include one or more lapping features for interfacing with adjacent tiles and features for electrically connecting multiples tiles within a course to an external power optimizer. Such PV roof tiles can utilize stamped glass that is stamped to define these features within an integrated glass tile and can further include texture, striations on the glass tile and/or color matched back layers or various other components to obscure visibility of any embedded solar cells and provide a more pleasing appearance.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2017Publication date: May 3, 2018Inventors: Charles Bernardo Almy, Brian Edward Atchley, Garret Anthony Bautista
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Patent number: 9353973Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein. Examples of solar energy receivers are disclosed that may be used to collect concentrated solar radiation.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2014Date of Patent: May 31, 2016Assignee: SunPower CorporationInventors: Gilad Almogy, Ratson Morad, Radu Constantin Raduta, Brian Edward Atchley, Joseph Isaac Lichy, Amir Arie Weiss
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Publication number: 20140216523Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein. Examples of solar energy receivers are disclosed that may be used to collect concentrated solar radiation.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2014Publication date: August 7, 2014Applicant: Cogenra Solar, Inc.Inventors: Gilad ALMOGY, Ratson MORAD, Radu Constantin RADUTA, Brian Edward ATCHLEY, Joseph Isaac LICHY, Amir Arie WEISS
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Publication number: 20110271999Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein. Examples of solar energy receivers are disclosed that may be used to collect concentrated solar radiation.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2010Publication date: November 10, 2011Applicant: Cogenra Solar, Inc.Inventors: Gilad ALMOGY, Ratson Morad, Radu Constantin Raduta, Brian Edward Atchley, Joseph Isaac Lichy, Amir Arie Weiss
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Publication number: 20110114154Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein. Examples of solar energy receivers are disclosed that may be used to collect concentrated solar radiation.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 22, 2010Publication date: May 19, 2011Applicant: Cogenra Solar, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Isaac LICHY, Brian Edward Atchley, Ratson Morad, Gilad Almogy, Adam Brian Reich, John Lawler, Nathan Phillips Beckett