Abstract: A modular VR system is provided with features that are specifically beneficial to public venues. The system includes a mask unit that is preferably custom fit to the user, and a modular, selectively-connectable viewing unit. The viewing unit houses all the required virtual reality optics and may be selectively secured to the mask unit. The mask unit includes an electrical memory which is electrically connected to the viewing unit when the two are connected. The viewing unit includes activatable covers to automatically protect the lenses whenever the viewing unit is disconnected from the mask unit. The viewing unit further includes a system to automatically adjust the distance between the lenses to match the interpupillary distance of the user. The viewing unit also includes an integral payment device and a handle.

Abstract: A monitoring clip to be secured to the edge of a filter cartridge includes a channel connecting both sides of the filter through which air will flow in response to the filter becoming clogged. Air flow within the channel will eventually be strong enough to pivotally move a flow vane. Controlling circuitry is used to detect the angular movement of the flow vane. When the flow vane moves to a “triggering” position, it is determined that the filter is clogged and requires replacement. Controlling circuitry will sound and illuminate a local alarm, and send a signal by Bluetooth or WiFi, to a smartphone. Although a clip format is preferred, the measuring and controlling circuitry of the monitoring clip can be also built into new filters.

Abstract: A modular VR system is provided with features that are specifically beneficial to public venues. The system includes a mask unit that is preferably custom fit to the user, and a modular, selectively-connectable viewing unit. The viewing unit houses all the required virtual reality optics and may be selectively secured to the mask unit. The mask unit includes an electrical memory which is electrically connected to the viewing unit when the two are connected. The viewing unit includes activatable covers to automatically protect the lenses whenever the viewing unit is disconnected from the mask unit. The viewing unit further includes a system to automatically adjust the distance between the lenses to match the interpupillary distance of the user. The viewing unit also includes an integral payment device and a handle.

Abstract: A method of locating a maintenance vehicle in a solar power field can include driving the maintenance vehicle on a track. A plurality of flags are coupled to the track at spaced locations. Each flag can include an ID tag and a contact target or a non-contact target. The maintenance vehicle can include an ID tag reader and a sensor configured to detect the contact target or the non-contact target. The method also can include driving the maintenance vehicle along the track to a position adjacent to a flag of the plurality of flags, reading by the ID tag reader the ID tag of that flag, and sensing by the sensor the contact target or the non-contact target. The method also can include, based on the reading and the sensing, identifying a unique location of the maintenance vehicle in the solar power field.

Abstract: A system for protecting electronic headset components from sunlight is provided. The headset is secured to a user's head for use and includes an electronic display, a lens, and a battery all secured to a frame structure. The frame structure includes a mask portion which is sized and shaped to fit snugly against the user's face, and a strap for holding the mask to the face. According to the invention, a moveable shield is mounted to a portion of the frame structure, either directly or indirectly, and is designed to move between a stowed position, wherein light from the display may pass freely through the lens to the user's eyes, during use, and a blocking position, wherein sunlight is prevented from passing through the lens and reaching, and damaging, the delicate electronic display. The shield may be sized and shaped to fit both lenses, or each lens, and may pivot or slide between positions, either automatically, or manually.

Abstract: Diagnostic vehicles, systems, and methods for characterizing a solar collector system are presented herein. The diagnostic vehicle comprises a frame, one or more sensors positioned along the frame, and a control system. The one or more sensors measure and characterize attributes of the solar collector system and/or its environment such as reflectivity of an area of ground around the solar collector system, an angular offset of a drive system of the solar collector system, and/or a degradation of structural components that support photovoltaic panels in the solar collector system. The control system is programmed to move the frame to one or more locations in the solar collector system and control the one or more sensors to acquire measurements at the one or more locations.

Abstract: A modular VR system is provided with features that are specifically beneficial to public venues. The system includes a mask unit that is preferably custom fit to the user, and a modular, selectively -connectable viewing unit. The viewing unit houses all the required virtual reality optics and may be selectively secured to the mask unit. The mask unit includes an electrical memory which is electrically connected to the viewing unit when the two are connected. The viewing unit includes activatable covers to automatically protect the lenses whenever the viewing unit is disconnected from the mask unit. The viewing unit further includes a system to automatically adjust the distance between the lenses to match the interpupillary distance of the user. The viewing unit also includes an integral payment device and a handle.

Abstract: A monitoring clip to be secured to the edge of a filter cartridge includes a channel connecting both sides of the filter through which air will flow in response to the filter becoming clogged. Air flow within the channel will eventually be strong enough to pivotally move a flow vane. Controlling circuitry is used to detect the angular movement of the flow vane. When the flow vane moves to a “triggering” position, it is determined that the filter is clogged and requires replacement. Controlling circuitry will sound and illuminate a local alarm, and send a signal by Bluetooth or WiFi, to a smartphone. Although a clip format is preferred, the measuring and controlling circuitry of the monitoring clip can be also built into new filters.

Abstract: A system for protecting electronic headset components from sunlight is provided. The headset is secured to a user's head for use and includes an electronic display, a lens, and a battery all secured to a frame structure. The frame structure includes a mask portion which is sized and shaped to fit snugly against the user's face, and a strap for holding the mask to the face. According to the invention, a moveable shield is mounted to a portion of the frame structure, either directly or indirectly, and is designed to move between a stowed position, wherein light from the display may pass freely through the lens to the user's eyes, during use, and a blocking position, wherein sunlight is prevented from passing through the lens and reaching, and damaging, the delicate electronic display. The shield may be sized and shaped to fit both lenses, or each lens, and may pivot or slide between positions, either automatically, or manually.

Abstract: A method of locating a maintenance vehicle in a solar power field can include driving the maintenance vehicle on a track. A plurality of flags are coupled to the track at spaced locations. Each flag can include an ID tag and a contact target or a non-contact target. The maintenance vehicle can include an ID tag reader and a sensor configured to detect the contact target or the non-contact target. The method also can include driving the maintenance vehicle along the track to a position adjacent to a flag of the plurality of flags, reading by the ID tag reader the ID tag of that flag, and sensing by the sensor the contact target or the non-contact target. The method also can include, based on the reading and the sensing, identifying a unique location of the maintenance vehicle in the solar power field.

Abstract: A system and method for cleaning and cooling solar panels are described. A solar tracker includes a main beam for supporting the solar panels, and nozzles coupled to the main beam. The main beam includes a water channel along its interior which supplies water to the nozzles. The nozzles are positioned to spray water on the collecting surfaces of the solar panels to clean and cool them. The solar tracker may also include gutters to reclaim used water. The solar tracker may include air ducts which direct air across the undersides of the solar panels to cool them.