Patents by Inventor Tyrus Hawkes Hudson
Tyrus Hawkes Hudson 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: 10873288Abstract: A system and apparatus are disclosed including PV modules having a frame allowing quick and easy assembling of the PV modules into a PV array in a sturdy and durable manner. In examples of the present technology, the PV modules may have a grooved frame where the groove is provided at an angle with respect to a planar surface of the modules. Various couplings may engage within the groove to assemble the PV modules into the PV array with a pivot-fit connection. Further examples of the present technology operate with PV modules having frames without grooves, or with PV modules where the frame is omitted altogether.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2017Date of Patent: December 22, 2020Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson
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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: 10673373Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays that can be aesthetically pleasing and appear seamless to an observer. BIPV systems can be incorporated as part of roof surfaces as built into the structure of the roof, flush or forming a substantively uniform plane with roof panels or other panels mimicking a solar panel appearance. Pans supporting BIPV solar panels can be coupled by standing seams, in both lateral and longitudinal directions, to other photovoltaic-supporting pans or pans supporting non-photovoltaic structures, having both functional and aesthetic advantages. In some configurations, the appearance of BIPV systems can be particularly aesthetically pleasing and generally seamless to an observer.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2016Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Charles Almy, Martin Seery, Daniel Preston Flanigan, Ryan Devine, River Broussard
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Patent number: 10547270Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays that can be aesthetically pleasing and appear seamless to an observer. BIPV systems can be incorporated as part of roof surfaces as built into the structure of the roof, flush or forming a substantively uniform plane with roof panels or other panels mimicking a solar panel appearance. Pans supporting BIPV solar panels can be coupled by standing seams, in both lateral and longitudinal directions, to other photovoltaic-supporting pans or pans supporting non-photovoltaic structures, having both functional and aesthetic advantages. In some configurations, adjacent photovoltaic modules may be oriented so that a boundary between an up-roof photovoltaic module and a down-roof photovoltaic module is not noticeable by observers positioned at typical viewing angles of the roof.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2016Date of Patent: January 28, 2020Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Charles Almy, Martin Seery, Daniel Preston Flanigan, Jack Raymond West, Garret Anthony Bautista, William Paul Buchanan, Johann Fritz Karkheck, Ethan Ely
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Patent number: 10505492Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays that can be aesthetically pleasing and appear seamless to an observer. BIPV systems can be on-roof systems, elevated from the surface of a roof, being flush or forming a substantively uniform plane with roof panels or other panels mimicking a solar panel appearance. Pans supporting BIPV solar panels can be coupled by standing seams to other photovoltaic-supporting pans or pans supporting non-photovoltaic structures, having both functional and aesthetic advantages. In some configurations, inverted seams can couple photovoltaic-supporting pans and non-photovoltaic structures, forming a substantively planar surface. In some configurations, the appearance of BIPV systems can be particularly aesthetically pleasing and generally seamless to an observer.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2016Date of Patent: December 10, 2019Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Charles Almy, Martin Seery, Daniel Preston Flanigan, Ryan Devine, River Broussard
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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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Patent number: 10110160Abstract: A three-directional photovoltaic module connector. The module connector includes first serial connection portion on each side for connecting two adjacent photovoltaic modules together in a serial, end-to-end connection. The module connector also includes a first parallel connection portion for connecting the two serially connected pairs of adjacent photovoltaic modules together in parallel, that is, side-to-side. The module connector further includes a vertical connection portion for attaching a mounting foot to elevate the photovoltaic module connector above a support surface such as a roof.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2016Date of Patent: October 23, 2018Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventor: Tyrus Hawkes Hudson
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Patent number: 9912285Abstract: A clamping system for securing the corners of four photovoltaic modules to a carport purlin, the clamping system having upper and lower body portions with an adjustable set screw between, the gap dimensioned to receive the purlin therein and the set screw rotatable to secure the purlin to the upper body portion. The system also having a pair of PV module connectors at opposite ends of the clamping assembly, each PV module connector adapted to secure a pair of PV modules to the purlin.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2016Date of Patent: March 6, 2018Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Martin Seery, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson
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Patent number: 9845972Abstract: An interlocking system for connecting photovoltaic module frames to a torque tube, including: (a) an interlock dimensioned to be positioned between the sides of two adjacent photovoltaic module frames; (b) a pair of couplings or flanges, wherein the couplings or flanges connect the interlock to both of the adjacent photovoltaic module frames; and (c) a U-lock connected to the interlock, wherein the U-lock is dimensioned to be connected to a torque tube.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2016Date of Patent: December 19, 2017Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, David Molina, Brian Atchley
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Patent number: 9816731Abstract: An apparatus and system for quickly and easily assembling PV modules into a PV array in a sturdy and durable manner. In some embodiments, the PV modules may have a grooved frame where the groove is angled into the frame with respect to the planar surface of the modules. Various components may engage within the angled groove to assemble the PV modules into the PV array using what may be referred to as a pivot-fit connection between the components and angled groove. Other embodiments may operate with PV modules having frames without angled grooves as by use of wraparound brackets.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2011Date of Patent: November 14, 2017Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Emil Johansen, Brian Atchley
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Patent number: 9803677Abstract: A system to prevent a sliding nut in a channel in a bar from escaping from the channel, and to prevent the nut from entering a no-go-zone at the end of the channel. The system is adjustable to position the nut at a desirable location along the length of the channels to mount coupling devices onto the bar.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2015Date of Patent: October 31, 2017Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson
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Patent number: 9793852Abstract: A photovoltaic (PV) mounting hardware support system having a base portion. The system includes a hinged clamp having a first clamp portion hingedly connected to a second clamp portion and operable to lock and unlock the first clamp portion and second clamp portion to the base portion. A beam member is provided and configured as a mount for a PV module coupling device. The beam member is clamped between the first clamp portion and second clamp portion.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2015Date of Patent: October 17, 2017Assignee: SOLARCITY CORPORATIONInventors: Charles Almy, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, David Molina
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Patent number: 9755571Abstract: Photovoltaic mounting systems having sealant injection system are provided herein. Such sealant injection systems provide improved directional control of sealant flow and improved sealing of roof penetrations during mounting with one or more fasteners. Such systems can include a bracket assembly having a removable sealant injection package. The sealant injection package includes a collapsible sealant injection reservoir and is adapted to provide directionally controlled release of sealant upon collapse. Such a system can further include sealant injection guides that direct flow of sealant during mounting and pads or caps that cover and enclose the injected sealant so as to ensure adequate sealing of any roof penetrations and maintain its integrity over time. Such systems further allow for sealant injection packages to be interchanged or replaced as needed and allow for ready removal or replacement of the bracket after mounting while maintaining the seal of any roof penetrations.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2015Date of Patent: September 5, 2017Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Charles Almy, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Jack Raymond West
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Publication number: 20170237387Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays that can be aesthetically pleasing and appear seamless to an observer. BIPV systems can be on-roof systems, elevated from the surface of a roof, being flush or forming a substantively uniform plane with roof panels or other panels mimicking a solar panel appearance. Pans supporting BIPV solar panels can be coupled by standing seams to other photovoltaic-supporting pans or pans supporting non-photovoltaic structures, having both functional and aesthetic advantages. In some configurations, inverted seams can couple photovoltaic-supporting pans and non-photovoltaic structures, forming a substantively planar surface. In some configurations, the appearance of BIPV systems can be particularly aesthetically pleasing and generally seamless to an observer.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2016Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Charles Almy, Martin Seery, Daniel Preston Flanigan, Ryan Devine, River Broussard
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Publication number: 20170237390Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays that can be aesthetically pleasing and appear seamless to an observer. BIPV systems can be incorporated as part of roof surfaces as built into the structure of the roof, flush or forming a substantively uniform plane with roof panels or other panels mimicking a solar panel appearance. Pans supporting BIPV solar panels can be coupled by standing seams, in both lateral and longitudinal directions, to other photovoltaic-supporting pans or pans supporting non-photovoltaic structures, having both functional and aesthetic advantages. In some configurations, adjacent photovoltaic modules may be oriented so that a boundary between an up-roof photovoltaic module and a down-roof photovoltaic module is not noticeable by observers positioned at typical viewing angles of the roof.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2016Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Charles Almy, Martin Seery, Daniel Preston Flanigan, Jack Raymond West, Garret Anthony Bautista, William Paul Buchanan, Johann Fritz Karkheck, Ethan Ely
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Publication number: 20170237389Abstract: Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays that can be aesthetically pleasing and appear seamless to an observer. BIPV systems can be incorporated as part of roof surfaces as built into the structure of the roof, flush or forming a substantively uniform plane with roof panels or other panels mimicking a solar panel appearance. Pans supporting BIPV solar panels can be coupled by standing seams, in both lateral and longitudinal directions, to other photovoltaic-supporting pans or pans supporting non-photovoltaic structures, having both functional and aesthetic advantages. In some configurations, the appearance of BIPV systems can be particularly aesthetically pleasing and generally seamless to an observer.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2016Publication date: August 17, 2017Inventors: Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Charles Almy, Martin Seery, Daniel Preston Flanigan, Ryan Devine, River Broussard
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Publication number: 20170201207Abstract: A three-directional photovoltaic module connector. The module connector includes first serial connection portion on each side for connecting two adjacent photovoltaic modules together in a serial, end-to-end connection. The module connector also includes a first parallel connection portion for connecting the two serially connected pairs of adjacent photovoltaic modules together in parallel, that is, side-to-side. The module connector further includes a vertical connection portion for attaching a mounting foot to elevate the photovoltaic module connector above a support surface such as a roof.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 26, 2016Publication date: July 13, 2017Inventor: Tyrus Hawkes Hudson
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Patent number: 9698724Abstract: The invention includes an apparatus for mounting a photovoltaic (PV) module onto a structure where the apparatus includes a base portion, a stud portion, and a coupling portion. The coupling portion includes a male portion that acts as a spring under load and a clip portion that penetrates the PV module frame to create a grounding bond. The apparatus includes a lower jaw, shaped to pry open a groove, and a key portion that can compress to allow for tolerances. The invention further includes a clip with one or more tabs and one or more teeth. The invention further includes a replacement roof tile which includes a support structure with a horizontal flange, a vertical component, a horizontal component, a flashing with an upper surface and a lower surface, and a tile-shaped metal surface having a curvilinear shape that reflects the shapes of adjacent tiles.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2013Date of Patent: July 4, 2017Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Emil Johansen
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Patent number: D803664Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2017Date of Patent: November 28, 2017Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Emil Johansen
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Patent number: D832779Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2016Date of Patent: November 6, 2018Assignee: SolarCity CorporationInventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Emil Johansen