Abstract: An integrated photovoltaic system includes a plurality of individual photovoltaic modules that each convert solar energy into DC power. Each of the photovoltaic modules is coupled to a busway that combines the DC power generated by each photovoltaic module into a DC power output. The connection between each photovoltaic module and the busway is environmentally sealed, as is the electrical wiring contained within the busway. The busway is coupled to a DC to AC power inverter that provides a supply of AC power. The coupling between the busway and the power inverter is environmentally protected, such that the entire DC wiring for the photovoltaic system is environmentally sealed and the system functions as an “AC photovoltaic system” having an AC power output.

Abstract: A digital voltage detector uses a running average to detect utility service disturbances in real time. An isolation transformer taps the main electrical AC power supply line and provides an analog voltage waveform to a system controller. The analog waveform is sampled digitally in real time, and the samples are squared to create respective instantaneous squared voltage values. A running average is kept of the instantaneous squared voltage values for a preselected period of time, preferably one half-cycle for the main power supply waveform. The running average is compared to a preselected under-voltage threshold value and a preselected over-voltage threshold value, and a disturbance detection signal is generated if the running average violates either threshold value. The disturbance detection signal is preferably used to activate a standby electrical AC power supply, and contemporaneously to disable the main electric AC power supply.

Abstract: An electric load levelling system includes a plurality of individual modules for storing and supplying AC electrical power. Each module is preferably contained within a separate enclosure and includes a plurality of individual electrochemical storage cells for storing DC electrical energy. Each enclosure includes a power conversion mechanism for converting input AC power for storage in the enclosed DC cells, and output DC power from the cells to AC for supply to an input/output line. The system is capable of storing electrical energy during periods of off-peak demand, and outputting such stored energy during periods of peak demand. The individual modules function as an "AC battery" having an AC input and output, and are adapted for mass production and ease of interchangeability.

Abstract: A plurality of coil springs (6) are secured to the flat inner surfaces (4a) of a jaw type connector (12) to receive a flat conductor (20, 24) such as a bus bar between the opposed springs, the individual coils of each spring (6) engaging the surfaces of the connector (4) and bus bar (20, 24) to provide a compliant, multiple path electrical connection between the connector and bus bar. The springs are plated with a material having a low interface resistance (Rp) with respect to the resistance of the spring wire (Rw) to minimize the net change in resistance of any individual current path in the event of contact interface breakdown between a spring coil and bus bar or connector, thereby reducing or eliminating harmful damage to the spring.