Abstract: In the solar cell module 1, one finger electrode 30 is branched into multiple branched portions 30a in an intersecting region ? where the one finger electrode 30 intersects a conductive body including a wiring member 40 configured to collect photo-generated carriers from the finger electrode 30.

Abstract: A spectral splitting-based radiation concentration photovoltaic system is described, comprising one or more spectral splitting reflector elements, a photovoltaic concentrator, and a photovoltaic receiver.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system for mounting photovoltaic cells on a surface, the system including a tile frame containing photovoltaic cells, an expansion arm on a side of the tile frame, a well in the expansion harm, and an adhesive in the well for contacting a cover. The invention is also directed to methods for making and using the system for mounting photovoltaic cells.

Abstract: A thermoplastic composition is provided comprising a thermoplastic polymer, a fluorescent dye or quantum dot, and a diffuser. When molded into an article, the composition has a haze level less than 55 at an article thickness, according to ASTM D1003-00. The composition has increased energy efficiency and enhances the emission of light at the edges of the article. The composition is particularly suited for use as a component of a luminescent solar collector.

Abstract: A luminescent solar collector is provided comprising a substrate and a light energy converter, such as a photocell, operatively connected thereto. The substrate is molded from a thermoplastic composition comprising a polymer and a fluorescent dye or quantum dot dispersed therein. The polymer comprises a polycarbonate unit and a polyester unit derived from the reaction of isophthalic acid, terephthalic acid, and resorcinol (ITR). In further embodiments, the substrate comprises two or more layers including a fluorescent layer and an overcoat layer. The fluorescent layer comprises the fluorescent dye or quantum dot and a polycarbonate polymer. The overcoat layer comprises the ITR unit. The substrate, in single layer or multiple layer form, has reduced haze levels over a prolonged period of time.

Abstract: A light conversion device and high-intensity, solid-state light source utilize wavelength conversion elements with a thermal conductivity greater than 1 watt per meter per degree Kelvin (W/m-K). Exemplary materials that have high thermal conductivity include monocrystalline solids, polycrystalline solids, substantially densified ceramic solids, amorphous solids or composite solids. The light conversion device and high-intensity, solid-state light source have at least one heat sink that is in direct thermal contact with the wavelength conversion element. The heat sink quickly dissipates heat generated within the wavelength conversion element in order to prevent the wavelength conversion element from overheating and undergoing thermal quenching of the wavelength conversion and light emission.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an analog photovoltaic power circuit, comprising: a photovoltaic device group for receiving photo energy to generate an input voltage; a power stage circuit for converting the input voltage to an output voltage; an optimum voltage estimation circuit for receiving a predetermined voltage and estimating an optimum voltage according to a direction of variation of the input voltage and a direction of variation of the power generated by the photovoltaic device group; and an analog comparison and control circuit for comparing the optimum voltage with the input voltage, to thereby control the operation of the power stage circuit.

Abstract: A photovoltaic module generates electrical power when installed on a roof. The module is constructed as a laminated sandwich having a transparent protective upper layer adhered to a photovoltaic layer. The photovoltaic layer is adhered to a rigid layer formed from a composite panel of fiber reinforced plastic and a metallic layer. The laminated sandwich has a plastic-clad aluminum frame around the perimeter. The laminated sandwich is coated with a moisture resisting coating. The laminated panel has a layer of double stick tape on the bottom to adhere the panel to the surface of a roof.

Abstract: A photovoltaic module generates electrical power when installed on a roof. The module is constructed as a laminated sandwich having a transparent protective upper layer adhered to a photovoltaic layer. The photovoltaic layer is adhered to a rigid layer formed from a fiber reinforced plastic. The laminated sandwich has a frame around the perimeter. The laminated panel has a layer of double stick tape on the bottom to adhere the panel to the surface of a roof.

Abstract: A solar cell module adapted for direct intercoupling with another solar cell module. The solar cell module has a plurality of photovoltaic cells disposed within an integral enclosure, a plurality of bypass diodes coupled in shunt across a subset of the plurality of photovoltaic cells, and at least one electrical connector adapted for intercoupling with another solar cell module constituting the sole path for delivery of electrical power from all of the plurality of photovoltaic cells of the solar cell module. Stiffening members may be coupled to a backskin of the solar cell module for providing rigidity of the module with respect to deflection.

Abstract: A substrate-supported photoelectrode, which includes an essentially two-dimensional transparent conductive oxide (TCO) film supported by a substrate, wherein the film is doped with at least one element of Group III, and one or more single crystal essentially one-dimensional nanostructures that are integral with the film and grown upwardly therefrom without a boundary layer therebetween, wherein the film and the nanostructures are essentially identical in composition and include zinc oxide or a zinc oxide alloy. Methods for preparing the substrate-supported photoelectrode and solar cells incorporating the substrate-supported photoelectrode are also provided.

Abstract: A solar collector including a reflective surface formed along an axis and a structure composed of at least one cementitious material that is coupled to and supports the reflective surface. The optic structure is made strong and light by the addition of a filler material within the cement. One or more bearings, photovoltaics, and secondary optics make the solar collector useful in a wide variety of applications and environmental conditions.

Abstract: A method of forming a semiconductor structure including a multijunction solar cell with an upper subcell, a middle subcell, and a lower subcell, by providing first substrate for the epitaxial growth of semiconductor material; forming a first solar subcell on said substrate having a first band gap; forming a second solar subcell over said first subcell having a second band gap smaller than said first band gap; and forming a grading interlayer over said second subcell having a third band gap larger than said second band gap; forming a third solar subcell having a fourth band gap smaller than said second band gap such that said third subcell is lattice mismatched with respect to said second subcell. A bypass diode is further provided in the semiconductor structure with a region of first polarity of the solar cell connected with a region of second polarity of the bypass diode.

Abstract: A polymer solar cell and a manufacturing method thereof are disclosed. The cell includes a substrate, a first electrode located on top of the substrate, a conductive polymer layer having a conductive polymer and an additive located on the first electrode, a semiconductor layer over the conductive polymer layer and a second electrode over the semiconductor layer. The manufacturing method of the polymer solar cell is composed of following steps: growing a first electrode on a substrate; mixing an additive and a conductive polymer to form a mixture; depositing the mixture on the first electrode to form a conductive polymer layer; depositing a semiconductor layer on the conductive polymer layer and evaporating a second electrode on the semiconductor layer. By adding additive into the conductive polymer, resistance of the conductive polymer layer is reduced and efficiency of the cell is improved.

Abstract: Disclosed are an organic dye having a specific structure, a photoelectric conversion material containing the dye, a semiconductor electrode formed of a substrate having an electrically conductive surface, a semiconductor layer coated on the electrically conductive surface and the above dye adsorbed on the surface, and a photoelectric conversion device to which the above dye is applied. The present invention uses the above dye and can therefore provide a photoelectric conversion device excellent in photoelectric conversion efficiency, and the photoelectric conversion device is suitable for use in a solar cell or the like.

Abstract: CIGS absorber layers fabricated using coated semiconducting nanoparticles and/or quantum dots are disclosed. Core nanoparticles and/or quantum dots containing one or more elements from group IB and/or IIIA and/or VIA may be coated with one or more layers containing elements group IB, IIIA or VIA. Using nanoparticles with a defined surface area, a layer thickness could be tuned to give the proper stoichiometric ratio, and/or crystal phase, and/or size, and/or shape. The coated nanoparticles could then be placed in a dispersant for use as an ink, paste, or paint. By appropriate coating of the core nanoparticles, the resulting coated nanoparticles can have the desired elements intermixed within the size scale of the nanoparticle, while the phase can be controlled by tuning the stochiometry, and the stoichiometry of the coated nanoparticle may be tuned by controlling the thickness of the coating(s).

Abstract: Apparatus and Method for Optimizing the Efficiency of Germanium Junctions in Multi-Junction Solar Cells. In a preferred embodiment, an indium gallium phosphide (InGaP) nucleation layer is disposed between the germanium (Ge) substrate and the overlying dual-junction epilayers for controlling the diffusion depth of the n-doping in the germanium junction. Specifically, by acting as a diffusion barrier to arsenic (As) contained in the overlying epilayers and as a source of n-type dopant for forming the germanium junction, the nucleation layer enables the growth time and temperature in the epilayer device process to be minimized without compromising the integrity of the dual-junction epilayer structure. This in turn allows the arsenic diffusion into the germanium substrate to be optimally controlled by varying the thickness of the nucleation layer.

Abstract: The present invention provides composite organic materials and optoelectronic device, including photovoltaic devices, comprising the same. In one embodiment, a composite material comprises a polymeric phase and a nanoparticle phase, the nanoparticle phase comprising at least one exaggerated nanocrystalline grain.

Abstract: A process for large-scale production of CdTe/CdS thin film solar cell the films of the solar cells being deposited as a sequence on a transparent substrate, which comprises the steps of: depositing a film of a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) on the substrate; depositing a film of CdS on the TCO film; treating the CdTe film with Chlorine-containing inert gas; and depositing a back-contact film on the treated CdTe film. The Chlorine-containing inert gas is a Chlorofluorocarbon or a Hydrochlorofluorocarbon product and the treatment is carried out in a vacuum chamber at an operating temperature of 380-420° C. The Chlorine released as a result of the thermal dissociation of the product reacts with solid CdTe present on the cell surface to produce TeCl2 and CdCl2 vapors. Any residual CdCl2 is removed from the cell surface by applying a vacuum to the vacuum chamber while keeping the temperature at the operating value.

Abstract: The invention relates to a meter box for housing a utility meter and configured for associating a customer service line to a utility service line. The meter box may be configured to fit within an existing meter box and may be configured with side sections in a telescopic arrangement. Flow control components at an input of the meter box prevent backflow. The meter box comprises an electronic module that includes a variety of selectable features including data logging, AMR, environmental monitoring, and resource monitoring. A remote monitor is provided for allowing a customer to view selected data including consumption data, pressure, pH, temperature, warnings, remote turnoff, and provide secured bill paying services. Imaging/audio components provide visual and audio data which may include an image of an analog readout for a meter register, images of the metering environment, and sound data for metering environment.

Abstract: A valve for controlling fluid flow in a fluid system is disclosed. The valve includes a housing, a servo spool, and a piston. The servo spool defines a spiral groove and a spiral land. The piston defines an orifice configured to provide flow communication to a supply of pressurized fluid and an orifice configured to provide flow communication to a portion of the fluid system exterior to the valve. The valve further includes a main spool operably coupled to the piston. The main spool is configured to control flow of fluid in the fluid system. The spiral groove and spiral land are configured such that angular displacement of the servo spool results in a force imbalance on the piston, thereby moving the piston and the main spool in one of a first direction and a second direction.

Abstract: Disclosed are a fluid control system and a method of controlling operating pressures within a fluid system. The fluid control system may include a choke assembly and a linear motor. The choke assembly may have a housing having an inlet passage, an axial bore, and a chamber, wherein a portion of the axial bore forms an outlet passage, and a choke member adapted for movement in the housing to control the flow of a fluid from the inlet passage to the outlet passage. The linear motor may control a position of the choke member in the housing.

Abstract: An improved microvalve is described. The microvalve is formed such that the walls of the microvalve are formed from a gel material. Typically, the microvalve includes open flow paths, often holes, through a gel layer. An electric field is applied in regions where fluid flow is undesirable. The electric field compresses the gel closing the flow path thereby preventing further fluid flow.

Abstract: A gassing system includes a gassing device, a pressure regulator in communication with the gassing device and a gas source and a PLC electrically connected to the pressure regulator. In addition, the system includes a removable orifice in communication with the pressure regulator, wherein the pressure regulator controls gas flow responsive to a signal sent from the PLC and wherein gas exiting the pressure regulator flows directly into and through the orifice and directly into the gassing device.

Abstract: For producing a device for controlling the flow of a medium, having a housing and a flap supported pivotably in it between a closing position and an open position, which flap in its closing position rests with its peripheral region on stop faces of the housing that are present on both sides of the longitudinal axis, to create tightness in the closing position in later operation, the flap is subjected to a force which is selected, taking into account the material comprising the stop faces and the flap, such that the flap with its peripheral region rests on at least one stop face at least substantially with linear contact. The force can be selected such that the housing, in the region of at least one stop face, and/or the flap, in its peripheral region, is permanently deformed. The housing and the flap are of metal.

Abstract: A combination pneumatic and electro-pneumatic gas valve positioning system comprising a pneumatic positioner and an electro-pneumatic positioner in parallel. The apparatus also includes at least one solenoid to control gas flow between the electro-pneumatic positioner and the pneumatic positioner.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a pilot valve used in a well and in which the state of the pilot valve is controlled by an actuator.

Abstract: A modular block, useful for constructing liquid-storage tanks for water-recovery systems, is described. The blocks can support large vertical loadings, may be fabricated from synthetic materials, and can be assembled into a tank-like structure. Because of their small size, light weight and easy portability, custom-sized water-recovery tanks may be readily assembled and installed at competitive costs. The water-recovery tanks may be used to reclaim runoff rainwater from water-impervious surfaces.

Abstract: A fluid transport apparatus maintains temperature of a fluid transported through a conduit. The fluid transport apparatus includes a fluid transport conduit for transporting fluid, the fluid transport conduit having an inlet end that is coupled to a fluid supply and an outlet end that is coupled to a receiving port, a compressor conduit configured to pump fluid through the fluid transport conduit by pressurizing and venting the compressor conduit, and a thermal conductor configured to achieve a non-ambient temperature for the fluid within the fluid transport conduit as the compressor conduit is operated to move the fluid through the fluid transport conduit.

Abstract: Processing devices that include one or more process arrays with thermal transfer structures that can be used alone or in conjunction with gravity/rotation to transport fluids within a microfluidic system. The thermal transport function can be accomplished by changing the temperature of one or more chambers to create a vacuum to draw fluids in selected directions within the process array. The methods and apparatus of the present invention may provide the ability to move fluids in a direction that is against the direction of gravity or any centrifugal forces generated by rotating a processing device using the thermal transfer structures. In other words, fluids may be moved against the direction of gravity or towards the axis of rotation using the thermally-activated vacuum.

Abstract: An apparatus has a valve body defining a first passageway, a valve seat, and a flow aperture extending through the valve body and coupled in fluid communication with the first passageway. A valve cover of the apparatus is formed of an elastic material and includes a cover base mounted on the valve body and fixedly secured against movement relative thereto, and a valve portion overlying the valve seat. The valve portion defines a predetermined radial thickness and forms an interference fit with the valve seat. The valve portion and the valve seat define a normally closed, axially-extending valve opening therebetween. The valve portion is movable between a normally closed position with the valve portion engaging the valve seat, and an open position with at least a segment of the valve portion spaced away from the valve seat to connect the valve opening in fluid communication with the flow aperture to thereby allow the passage of fluid from the flow aperture through the valve opening.

Abstract: A valve 100 comprising a magnetic circuit comprising a first member 101 and a pivotably mounted armature 102 the armature being movable between a position in which the valve seal 104 engages the valve seat 105 of valve port 103 to block the valve port 103, and a position away from the first member 101. A coil 106 surrounds the armature 102 which, when supplied with an electric current, creates a magnetic field in the armature 102 attracting the free end to the first member 101. Dampening pads 110 are provided on the armature 102. Each dampener pad 110 comprises a layer of viscoelastic material covered by a protective layer of polyetheretherketone (PEEK). During use, as there is wear between the armature 102 and the first member 101, and/or non magnetic section 107, the dampening pad 110 is compressed on impact by an increasing degree, thus the more worn the valve becomes, the more the dampening and thus the greater the protection against further wear.

Abstract: A vent valve comprising an outer sleeve including a vent window; a housing disposed within the outer sleeve, the housing including a vent slot; a baffle disposed in front of the vent slot. Embodiments of the invention may include a float disposed within the outer sleeve, a flapper disposed within the outer sleeve, an end cap, and/or a venting orifice. In an embodiment the vent window and the vent slot may oppose one another and can, for instance, be positioned approximately 180° apart.

Abstract: Simple refinishing of the valve seat 3 of an annular valve 1 is made possible, which has a plurality of ring guide studs 15 arranged radially and separated in circumferential direction and projecting from said valve seat 3 to guide sealing rings 5 in radial and axial direction, whereby a recess 18 is provided in the valve seat 3 extending in circumferential direction between to ring guide studs 15 lying at the same radius. No cross piece negatively influencing the outgoing flow must remain between the sealing surfaces 17 in the area of the recess 18 during refinishing of said sealing surfaces 17 of the valve seat 3.

Abstract: According to the invention, a non-rotatable lock sleeve 20 concentrically arranged on the valve seat 3 is provided with a non-circular outer contour onto which the unloader 22 is placed with its radial central section 28, which is correspondingly formed in a diametrically opposed manner to prevent said unloader from turning.

Abstract: A metallic separating plate 6 is arranged between the sealing rings 5 and the synchronizing plate 7 to prevent mutual wear of the sealing rings 5 and the synchronizing plate 7 in an annular valve having sealing rings 5 as sealing elements and a synchronizing plate 7 to synchronize and dampen the ring opening movement.

Abstract: A system for providing pneumatic power to a vitrector includes first and second output ports, an output valve, an isolation valve, and three manifolds. The first and second output ports provide pressurized gas to power a vitrector. The output valve alternately provides pressurized gas to the first and second output ports. The isolation valve provides pressurized gas to the output valve. Two manifolds fluidly connect the output valve to the first and second output ports. A third manifold fluidly connects the isolation valve to the output valve. When the isolation valve provides pressurized gas to the output valve, the output valve operates at a high rate of speed to alternately provide pressurized gas to the first and second output ports thereby powering the vitrector.

Abstract: One embodiment is an apparatus including an air-exhaust mixing passageway, a first lip extending into the passageway, a second lip extending into the passageway, a valley intermediate the first lip and the second lip, and an exhaust inlet aperture in flow communication with the flow channel.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a saddle tank for internal combustion engines of motor vehicles, comprising an oblong boom, which is connected at one end to a swirl pot located in the first chamber and rests toward the other end on a lower saddle surface of the saddle and a retainer for a Venturi nozzle or pump, which is mounted so it is rotatable on the other end of the boom.

Abstract: Disclosed are a fluid control system and method of controlling operating pressures within a fluid system, where the fluid control system includes a choke assembly, a pressure generating device, and a linear motor. The choke assembly may include a housing and a choke member adapted for movement in the housing, controlling the flow of a fluid from an inlet passage to an outlet passage. The fluid applies a force on a first end of the choke member. The pressure generating device may be fluidly connected to a chamber and may contain a control fluid that applies a first force on a second end of the choke member. The linear motor may apply a second force on the second end of the choke member. The difference between the forces applied to the first and second ends of the choke member may affect the movement of the choke member in the housing.

Abstract: A main flow line and relief valve assembly comprising: a main line fitted with a standpipe; a relief valve fitted within the standpipe; and a sleeve inserted in the standpipe below the relief valve, with a distal end of the sleeve configured to prevent aero-acoustic resonances of the deep cavity formed by the relief valve and standpipe assembly. The aero-acoustic resonance is prevented by separating the vortex shedding frequency associated with the free shear layer convecting across the mouth of the deep cavity and the acoustic cavity frequencies of the deep cavity and by disrupting the free shear layer at the mouth of the deep cavity such that the vertical structure does not remain coherent and/or does not impact upon the downstream edge of the cavity mouth.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus includes a cartridge which ejects an ink, a chamber having an inlet unit which inhales a fog generated when the ink is ejected from the cartridge and an outlet unit which exhales the inhaled fog, an air pressure generating unit which is connected to the chamber to generate an air pressure to inhale and exhale the fog from the chamber, and a valve unit which selectively opens and closes the inlet unit and the outlet unit by the air pressure which is generated in the air pressure generating unit.

Abstract: To develop a flow control system for use in a well, a multi-level approach is used, where the multi-level approach includes setting goals for the flow control system. According to the goals set, an overall design of the flow control system is specified, and based on the specified overall design for the flow control system, operation of the flow control system is simulated.

Abstract: A piston valve includes a body having an inlet on one end side of the body, a relief hole that opens on a sidewall of the body, a piston slidably inserted in the body, a damper chamber formed in the body, and a spring disposed in the chamber and urging the piston toward the inlet. Controlled fluid flows into the body through the inlet, and is discharged through the relief hole. The piston is located between the inlet and the chamber in the longitudinal direction. An opening area of the relief hole is varied according to a position of the piston, in which the piston is balanced when pressure of controlled fluid applied to an inlet side-surface of the piston is equal to a sum of internal pressure of the chamber and reaction force of the spring, the sum being applied to a chamber side-surface of the piston.

Abstract: A machine includes an unsteady blower device, such as a synthetic jet actuator, disposed such that an aperture of the blower is disposed upon the trailing edge of the machine component. The unsteady blower device is actuated to perform unsteady blowing of a fluid from the aperture in order to enhance turbulent mixing in the flow to mitigate undesirable wakes that interact with downstream components. Such unsteady blower devices facilitate momentum transfer or unsteady excitation or energy addition into the flow through the machine via direct injection of additional fluid.

Abstract: A combination wet kit includes a single mounting bracket supporting an end dump/return manifold and a walking floor/side dump/low boy manifold, as well as a support bracket for the hydraulic fluid filter. A three-way valve is positioned between the end dump/return manifold and a walking floor/side dump/low boy manifold. The manifold unit attached to the tractor without requiring holes in the tractor frame. The manifolds and the preassembled nature of the manifold assembly greatly simplify and reduce costs for installation of the combination wet kit.

Abstract: A device for imparting a whirling motion on the flow of air for supplying a turbo-supercharged internal-combustion engine is designed to be interposed in the duct for supplying the air upstream of the supercharger for supercharging the engine. The device comprises an elbow-shaped portion of duct and partializing means, which are able to limit the section of passage in the upstream branch the aforesaid elbow portion to an area which constitutes a fraction of the total section of the duct and which is adjacent to a wall of the duct. In this way, the downstream branch of the elbow portion is reached by a tangential flow that gives rise to a helical flow of the air in said downstream branch. The device enables creation upstream of the supercharger of a negative pressure sufficient for enabling a recirculation of exhaust gases, upstream of the supercharger, and at the same time imparts on the air flow a whirling movement that enables the supercharger to be exploited in the most efficient way.

Abstract: In one example, a piping system 20 is built around a wire (elongated flexible member) 25. An inlet pipe 21 and an outlet pipe 22 are fixed to both sides of the wire 25 parallel to each other via a plurality of pipe holders 26. Further, insulator holders 27 are attached to the wire 25 and heat insulating sections 28 are attached to the insulator holders 27. A cylindrical gap 51 is formed between the inlet pipe 21 and the inner surface of each of the heat insulating section 28.

Abstract: A method for the drainage of permeate gases from a flexible tubular pipe and a pipe embodied for carrying out the method. The pipe comprises at least one inner pressure sleeve, for the transport of hydrocarbons, which contain permeate gases which diffuse across the wall of the inner pressure sleeve. The pipe has an outer sleeve and several reinforcement layers, arranged in an annular zone between the outer sleeve and the inner pressure sleeve. The annular zone has transport ducts in which the permeate gases can circulate towards the removal. The method comprises a forced circulation of the permeate gases in the annular zone through the transport ducts towards the removal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a unit element of undersea pipe, in particular for providing a bottom-to-surface connection, constituted by an assembly of two coaxial pipe elements of the PiP type (1) presenting an inner pipe element (2) and an outer pipe element (3) coaxial thereabout with an annular space (41) between the pipes, preferably including a thermally insulating material (42) in said annular space, and including at each end a junction piece (6, 6a-6b) in the form of a steel forging for connecting together two of said unit elements of axial pipe (1), said junction forgings (6) being welded to the ends of both of said inner and outer pipes, said unit elements being characterized in that said inner pipe element (2) comprises in its main portion an inner tube (21) of metal presenting thickness that is small relative to the thickness of the ends of said inner pipes that are welded to said junction forgings (6), the thickness of said inner tube being less than 50% the thickness of said ends of said inn