Abstract: A method for inline data plane monitor placement and operation for network function virtualization involves receiving, at one or more control modules of a network, a logical monitoring specification. The logical monitoring specification includes a monitoring regime abstracted from a physical topology of the network. The one or more control modules perform one or more of instantiating or identifying one or more monitor instances of the network based on the logical monitoring specification, the one or more monitor instances being or having been instantiated within one or more data plane components of the network. The one or more control modules configure the one or more monitor instances based on the logical monitoring specification.

Abstract: A method for inline data plane monitor placement and operation for network function virtualization involves receiving, at one or more control modules of a network, a logical monitoring specification. The logical monitoring specification includes a monitoring regime abstracted from a physical topology of the network. The one or more control modules perform one or more of instantiating or identifying one or more monitor instances of the network based on the logical monitoring specification, the one or more monitor instances being or having been instantiated within one or more data plane components of the network. The one or more control modules configure the one or more monitor instances based on the logical monitoring specification.

Abstract: A photovoltaic module with photovoltaic cell and a heat sink. The heat sink is attached on a side of the cell opposite to the light-receiving side of the photovoltaic cell. The heat sink can remove heat caused by light absorbed by the photovoltaic cell but not converted to electricity as well as heat generated by resistance to high current passing through electrodes of the photovoltaic cell. A photovoltaic module formed of such cells can exhibit greater energy conversion efficiency as a result of the ability to dissipate the heat. A method of making a solar module involves e.g. laminating a heat sink to a photovoltaic cell.

Abstract: A low stress-inducing heat sink may reduce thermally induced stress and strain in the heat source. The low stress-inducing heat sink may be made of materials with low thermal conductivity. The heat sink may have in-plane flexibility and hence reduce thermally induced stress and strain generated in the heat source and at the interface of the heat sink and the heat source.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for mounting an optical element on the underside of a substrate in a solar energy system, as a replacement for, or supplemental support to, an adhesive. The apparatus includes one or more support arms which uphold the optical element. The support arms may be secured in place by being coupled to various components of the solar energy system, such as a front panel, an enclosure, or a primary mirror.