Abstract: A lens device for concentrating light onto a photovoltaic target or mirrored surface is disclosed. The lens may be configured to receive and reflect at least a portion of incident light onto the photovoltaic target or mirrored surface, and pass a portion of incident light through the lens depending on the received light's particular angle of incidence. The lens may include a lens body having a first surface that extends away from a light incident base at generally a first acute angle relative to the base, and a collector surface extending from a distal end of the first surface toward the base at a second angle. The collector surface may include a photovoltaic target configured to receive a portion of light emitted from the base and to convert the received portion of light into electrical energy, or a mirrored surface configured to reflect light generally back to the origin.

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed that facilitate the manufacturability, mechanical integrity, and performance of photovoltaic devices and assemblies. One embodiment includes assembling concentrating lenses into a structural frame such that the lenses are aligned and mechanically secure both during and upon completion of the assembly. Another embodiment includes a method of assembly where an optical coupling material is injected into a cavity within a concentrating lens that encloses a photovoltaic material. Another embodiment includes a method of assembly that creates an enclosed busway within a rail supporting the concentrating lenses, wherein a clamping cover serves to mechanically lock or otherwise secure the lenses to the supporting rail while at the same time serves as a section of the rail assembly that encloses the busway for the electrical wiring and interconnections.

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for protecting a photovoltaic device from the environment. An electrical interconnection is also provided for increased mechanical and electrical protection of the photovoltaic and electrical interconnections between lens cell assemblies configured in an array using an enclosed busway structure. Also provided is a method of leading the electrical contacts from the photovoltaic material within the lens cell assembly such that there is a positive seal provided by the lens encapsulating material. One such embodiment comprises a passage within the lens itself, which serves as a conduit for electrical leads from the photovoltaic material. The internal passage for electrical leads enables the ability to completely wrap and seal the lens assembly with encapsulating film, which in combination with an enclosed busway operatively coupling an array of lens assemblies, allows for a highly manufacturable and secure seal over the photovoltaic system.