Abstract: Provided are novel back sheets for solar module encapsulation. According to various embodiments, the back sheets are ungrounded and flexible. In certain embodiments, the back sheets include an integrated flexible and electrically isolated moisture barrier. The electrically isolated moisture barrier may be a thin metallic sheet, e.g., an aluminum foil. The electrically isolated, flexible moisture barrier eliminates the need for grounding.

Abstract: The invention relates to a solar cell that comprises a planar semiconductor substrate with a front and a back; a multitude of holes that interconnect the front and the back; and current-collecting electrical contacts that are exclusively arranged on the back. The front comprises highly doped regions and lightly doped regions of a first type such that in each case the holes are situated in a highly doped region or adjoin such a region. According to a first aspect of the invention, the highly doped regions are arranged locally around the holes. According to a second aspect of the invention, the front comprises at least one region without holes, and the highly doped regions comprise one region or several regions that extends/extend to the at least one hole-free region. The invention furthermore relates to methods for manufacturing such solar cells.

Abstract: A method of forming an electrode including an electrochemical catalyst layer is disclosed, which comprises forming a graphitized porous conductive fabric layer, optionally conditioning the graphitized porous conductive fabric layer, and dipping the graphitized porous conductive fabric layer into a solution containing polymer-capped noble metal nanoclusters dispersed therein. The polymer-capped noble metal nanoclusters as an electrochemical catalyst layer are adsorbed onto the graphitized porous conductive fabric layer. An electrochemical device with the electrode made thereby is also contemplated.

Abstract: A solar cell photovoltaic device using ultrathin films of polycrystalline silicon and deep uneven surface structures is disclosed. According to one embodiment, the uneven structures include one or more pits having a depth of at least 10 microns. According to another embodiment, the uneven structures include one or more cones or columns having a height or at least 10 microns. Because the unevenness of the structures, the photovoltaic device is able to use a very thin layer of polycrystalline silicon to effectively trap and absorb light.

Abstract: [Object] An object is to provide a solar cell element exhibiting a reduced warp, a low resistance loss and a high adhesion between the silicon substrate and the electrode, and a method for manufacturing the same. [Solving Means] The solar cell element includes a silicon substrate 1, and a first electrode 5a formed of aluminum and a metal containing zinc on the silicon substrate 1. The solar cell element is produced by a method including the step of preparing a silicon substrate and an electroconductive paste containing an aluminum powder and a powder containing zinc, the step of applying the electroconductive paste onto the silicon substrate, the step of heating the electroconductive paste applied onto the silicon substrate at a temperature higher than the melting point of the powder containing zinc to melt the electroconductive paste, and the step of cooling the molten electroconductive paste to form an electrode.

Abstract: A solar cell includes a p-n structure having a first conductive semiconductor substrate, a second conductive semiconductor layer formed on the first conductive semiconductor substrate and having a conduction opposite to the first conductive semiconductor substrate, and a p-n junction formed at an interface between the first and second conductive semiconductor substrate/layer; a first anti-reflection film formed on the second conductive semiconductor layer and composed of SiNx:H thin film with 40-100 nm thickness; a second anti-reflection film formed on the first anti-reflection film and composed of silicon oxy-nitride; a front electrode formed on the second anti-reflection film in a predetermined pattern and connected to the second conductive semiconductor layer through the first and second anti-reflection films; and a rear electrode formed at an opposite side to the front electrode with the first conductive semiconductor substrate being interposed therebetween to be connected to the first conductive semicond

Abstract: The present invention relates to a ruthenium-type dye and a making method thereof, and more particularly, to a ruthenium-type dye which is used to manufacture a dye-sensitized solar cell, drastically improves a molar extinction coefficient to enhance efficiency of a solar cell with only a small amount of a dye and oxide semiconductor particles, allows a thin film solar cell element to be manufactured without difficulty and sharply reduces manufacturing costs of a solar cell, and a making method thereof.

Abstract: A solar cell is provided with a semiconductor substrate including a light-receiving surface, a back surface, a first region of a first conductivity type disposed on the back surface, a second region of a second conductivity type disposed on the light-receiving surface, and a PN junction at the boundary between the first and second regions. An electrode is provided on the light-receiving surface to expose a portion of the light-receiving surface, and the semiconductor substrate includes a plurality of recesses formed by recessing the exposed portion of the light-receiving surface. The recesses may function as a texturing structure.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a solar cell is described. The method includes first providing a substrate having a dielectric layer disposed thereon. A pin-hole-free masking layer is then formed above the dielectric layer. Finally, without the use of a mask, the pin-hole-free masking layer is patterned to form a patterned pin-hole-free masking layer.

Abstract: A semiconductor device is provided in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The semiconductor device includes a semiconductive layer disposed over a multi-layer substrate. The multi-layer substrate includes a plurality of dissimilar regions, one of which is an inner magnetic region and the remainder of the multi-layer substrate is thermally symmetrical about the inner magnetic region.

Abstract: An object is to increase conversion efficiency of a photoelectric conversion device without increase in the manufacturing steps. The photoelectric conversion device includes a first semiconductor layer formed using a single crystal semiconductor having one conductivity type which is formed over a supporting substrate, a buffer layer including a single crystal region and an amorphous region, a second semiconductor layer which includes a single crystal region and an amorphous region and is provided over the buffer layer, and a third semiconductor layer having a conductivity type opposite to the one conductivity type, which is provided over the second semiconductor layer. A proportion of the single crystal region is higher than that of the amorphous region on the first semiconductor layer side in the second semiconductor layer, and the proportion of the amorphous region is higher than that of the single crystal region on the third semiconductor layer side.

Abstract: An enhanced solar collector is provided in this invention, wherein a through hole is formed in a secondary mirror in Cassegrain system, and a light collecting device focusing lights, originally shaded by the secondary mirror, via the through hole to increase light-collecting efficiency of the enhanced solar collector.

Abstract: Disclosed is a novel fluorene derivative and an organic electronic device using the same. The organic electronic device has excellent efficiency, driving voltage, and a lifespan.

Abstract: One or more fluid streams are uniformly divided into two or more partial fluid streams in chemical apparatuses in a manner such that there is a reduced tendency to form deposits. Division of such stream(s) is achieved by using a distributor device that includes at least one plate having two or more openings which openings are rounded or chamfered on at least one side.

Abstract: A system and method is described generally for affecting atmospheric change. The system and method include providing a high altitude conduit or track. The system and method also include providing a first material through the conduit or via a payload delivery system. Further, the system and method include expelling the first material into the atmosphere at high altitude.

Abstract: A fluid isolation valve having a valve body with a first fluid flow port, a second fluid flow port and a fluid drain port with a valve in the fluid drain port. The valve body also defines a fluid flow channel, a drain flow channel and a valve portion, wherein the valve portion is disposed in the valve body to be communicated with the first fluid flow port, the second fluid flow port and the fluid drain port. A flow diversion device is also provided and is disposed within the valve portion. The flow diversion device is configurable between a first configuration and a second configuration, such that when the flow diversion device is in the first configuration the first fluid flow port is communicated with the second fluid flow port. Consequently, when the flow diversion device is in the second configuration the first fluid flow port is communicated with the fluid drain port. The fluid flow can be decrease or stop by use of the valve within the fluid drain port.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods provide for a flow control actuator having a fluid cavity that is shaped to create periodic waveforms within the resulting resonant actuating flow with predetermined characteristics for actuating a high-speed fluid flow. According to various embodiments, a flow control actuator includes a power source for exciting the actuator fluid at a resonant frequency and a cavity shaped according to resonant macrosonic synthesis principles to maximize the exit velocity of the actuating flow at an orifice of the actuator.

Abstract: engine, the system comprising: first and second fuel pumps each having a pump inlet for collecting fuel from the fuel tank; and a water scavenging line coupling a water inlet to the pump inlet of the first pump. The first pump is configured to pump fuel towards the engine at a higher rate than the second pump, unless the first pump fails. A method of removing water from an aircraft fuel tank, the method comprising collecting water from a pool at the bottom of the fuel tank during take off or climb and feeding the water to an engine of the aircraft.

Abstract: A subsea system comprises a wellbore within a reservoir, equipment downstream of the wellbore, and a barrier connected to the equipment. The equipment is rated for a maximum pressure that is less than a maximum reservoir pressure and equal to or greater than the maximum reservoir pressure less external hydrostatic pressure experienced by the equipment. The barrier is rated for a maximum pressure that is equal to or greater than the maximum reservoir pressure.

Abstract: A diaphragm-type control valve having a diaphragm and a valve body is provided preferably for use in the separation of and fluid control between a fluid source and a pressurized gas volume. The diaphragm element and a port in the body together form an intermediate chamber that eliminates the need for a check-valve downstream of the valve. In one preferred embodiment, an inner surface of the valve body defines a chamber having an inlet and an outlet in communication with the chamber, and an elongated seat member defining a groove in communication with the port. A diaphragm member having upper and lower surfaces is disposed within the chamber. The lower surface preferably includes a pair of spaced apart elongated members defining a channel therebetween. The diaphragm member engages the seat member placing the channel in communication with the groove to define an air seat in communication with the port.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing system can be used with a container comprising at least one camming surface. In various embodiments, the fluid dispensing system can have a housing which can accept at least a portion of the container in a fixed orientation and a track which can be engaged with the housing. In at least one embodiment, the housing can be slidably movable along the track at least between a first position and a second position. In various embodiments, the fluid dispensing system can have a tube which can be engaged with at least a portion of the container to withdraw fluid therefrom when the housing is in the second position and can also have a fluid system in fluid communication with the tube.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for assembling a faucet spout to retain a tube within a body of the faucet spout.

Abstract: A compressed air supply system for a commercial vehicle includes a compressed air inlet that can be coupled to a compressor, a filter unit that is coupled to the compressed air inlet via a delivery line, a discharge valve unit that is coupled to a discharge outlet and the delivery line, an energy saving control output that can be coupled to a control input of the compressor, a first valve unit and a second valve unit, wherein the discharge value unit, the energy saving control output, and the regeneration of the filter unit can be controlled via the value units. A first control input of the discharge value unit, the energy saving control output and the regeneration of the filter unit can be controlled via the first value unit. A second control input of the discharge value unit can be controlled via the second value unit. A method is provided for operating the compressed air supply system.

Abstract: The Present Invention enables energy to be extracted from the atmosphere by creating a vacuum into which atmospheric air is drawn through a vacuum operated motor. The motor operates on the pressure differential between atmospheric pressure at the motor inlet and the vacuum level created by liquid flowing vertically through a tube via gravity. The greater the pressure differential, the greater the airflow through the motor, and the greater the energy extracted by the vacuum motor. The Present Invention is a workable and sustainable vacuum energy recovery system based on siphon principles, and specifically addresses problem areas immediately identifiable to a siphon-based system with air infusion. A scavenger loop operates independently to prevent air and/or gas from accumulating at the siphon apex. Micro-diffusers designed for sweeping effects across the air-liquid interfaces also provide for the optimal ratios of air volumes and bubble sizes compatible with the liquid flow rates within a given siphon.

Abstract: A valve for a fluid passage in a vehicle fuel cell system. A housing includes an inflow passage connected to an upstream side of the fluid passage and an outflow passage connected to a downstream side of the fluid passage. A valve body is disposed in the housing and includes an intermediate fluid passage configured to provide fluid communication between the inflow passage and the outflow passage. A heating element is configured to apply heat directly to the valve body.

Abstract: One or both of two components that are joinable by a connector (22) is provided with a connector retainer mechanism (200) that holds the connector with the component prior to assembly. In one embodiment, a component having a mounting hole (102) therein includes a retainer (202, 204) or holder that keeps a connector in the mounting hole so that the component may be assembled to another component without the connector falling out of the mounting hole prior to such assembly. An example of a connector retainer mechanism is a ball that partially extends into the mounting hole from a transverse bore (208).

Abstract: An assembly is for extremely fast opened lids systems, where compressed gases or liquids or oils are used. Mainly, the removable lid is comprised of a lid, a lid platform, a dynamic hinging mechanism, and a releasing mechanism. A final action could be via means of mechanical or electrical via an action of a solenoid.

Abstract: A pilot valve is switchable between snap and throttle modes. The pilot valve supplies output gas to a process control valve and has an adjustable biasing member for applying an adjustable force to a pilot plug in a pilot body interior. An opposed force is applied to the pilot plug to overcome the adjustable force and the output gas.

Abstract: The fuel cutoff valve has a casing that defines a casing body having a valve chamber and a communicating chamber that connects the valve chamber to the outside; and a float mechanism that is housed within the valve chamber and adapted to open and close a connecting passage through rise and fall in accordance with the fuel level inside the fuel tank. The casing has projecting out respectively from its side part a first pipe that connects to the communicating chamber as well as connecting to the outside via a tube, and a second pipe that connects the communicating chamber to another valve via a tube. The first pipe and the second pipe are situated in a mutually parallel arrangement in the vertical direction.

Abstract: A gas regulator includes an actuator, a regulator valve, and pressure loading device. The pressure loading device provides a pressure load to a surface of a diaphragm of the actuator to act against a downstream pressure being applied to the opposite surface of the diaphragm and being controlled by the regulator. As the downstream pressure varies and the diaphragm displaces to move a control element to regulate the downstream pressure, the pressure loading device maintains a specified load pressure. The regulator may further include a balanced trim applying a balancing force to offset a force of an upstream pressure on the control element.

Abstract: A system for hydraulically managing fluid pressure in a fluid distribution system between pressure set points includes a main valve having a fluid inlet and outlet. The main valve is configured to open to increase fluid flow therethrough and to close to reduce the fluid flow therethrough. A variable orifice assembly is coupled to the main valve and has fluid apertures formed in a housing thereof to create a fluid flow pathway therebetween. A valve stem is variably positioned within the housing to alter the fluid flow between the fluid apertures. A first control pilot is in fluid communication with the main valve and a first fluid aperture of the variable orifice assembly. A second control pilot is in fluid communication with the main valve and a second fluid aperture of the variable orifice assembly. The valve position and fluid flow are variable as the main valve opens and closes.

Abstract: A hydraulic system with a pressure reducing valve having at an inlet side a tank connection, a system pressure connection, and an outlet side working pressure connection that is connected to the system pressure connection or to the tank connection through the pressure reducing valve. The pressure reducing valve has a first and a second system pressure connection, wherein the second system pressure connection is pressurized at a significantly higher pressure than the first system pressure connection, and is connected to the working pressure connection through the pressure reducing valve.

Abstract: Device for controlling a fluid flow between pipes having a housing and a valve body which can move in the housing under the influence of pressure in the pipes. The housing has a sealing surface relative to which the valve body sealing surface can move for closing or controlling the fluid flow through an annular gap.

Abstract: Provided is a diverter valve including a housing assembly having a plurality of ports and a drum assembly disposed in the housing. The drum assembly including a plurality of passages for selectively coupling the ports, wherein an axial position of the drum assembly with respect to the ports determines which ports are active and which parts are dormant.

Abstract: A slide valve for regulating the hydraulic pressure at a working connection to values between a low pressure and a high pressure, for which purpose a valve slide is accommodated in a hole of a housing such that it can move linearly, which housing has a low pressure connection, a high pressure connection and the working connection, for which purpose the working connection is connected to the low pressure connection in the first position of the valve slide, while the working connection is separated from the two further connections in a second position of the valve slide, and having a third position of the valve slide, in which the working connection is connected to the high pressure connection (P). A plurality of radial holes are arranged in the valve slide, through which radial holes flow can pass and which radial holes interact with a plurality of circumferential control edges in the housing which seal the valve slide in the hole in a leakfree manner by means of suitable sealing rings.

Abstract: In a pressure tank, in particular hydraulic accumulator (3, 5), having a parting element (1), which parting element (1) separates a space (11) for a first, in particular gaseous, working medium from a space for a second working medium, in particular a fluid, in the tank, is flexible, can move under deformation and defines a domed main parting plane which extends from an annular edge (13), the parting element (1) is produced from a substance which has a fluoroplastic material, preferably a substance composed entirely of fluoroplastic material.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for reducing pressure and velocity of a particulate-laden, supersonic vent gas stream from a pressure vessel such as an autoclave. The apparatus includes a diverging duct in which the vent gas expands, and a perforated plate located inside the diverging duct. The perforated plate provides an area reduction that increases back pressure and forces an upstream normal shock in the diverging duct, thereby bringing about a desired reduction in pressure and velocity. The perforated plate is comprised of a material, such as a ceramic, that is resistant to erosion by the abrasive particulate entrained in the high velocity vent gas. The perforated plate has a central portion provided with holes and an imperforate peripheral portion which is resiliently received between connection flanges of the duct.

Abstract: A well logging instrument housing includes an electrically non-conductive tube and at least one layer of fiber embedded in a matrix surrounding an exterior of the tube. The at least one fiber layer includes at least one carbon fiber. The at least one or carbon fiber is arranged to have substantially no closed loops.

Abstract: A flexible hose construction with enhanced levels of kink, crush, and burst resistance. The hose includes an inner tubular member, an outer tubular member, a yarn layer disposed between the inner and outer tubular members, and a plurality of reinforcement strips within the outer tubular member. The reinforcement strips are helically wound with a given pitch about the lumen of the tubular member. The outer tubular member is composed of a first compound containing an olefin block copolymer and a styrene/ethylene-butylene/styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer. The reinforcement strips are composed of a second compound containing a thermoplastic elastomer and a polypropylene homopolymer.

Abstract: Polyolefin multilayer pipes consisting at least one of the layers of a ?-nucleated propylene homopolymer and/or ?-nucleated copolymers from 90.0 to 99.9% by weight of propylene and 0.1 to 10.0% by weight of ?-olefins. The pipes are to be classified in ring stiffness class ?4. The pipes are suitable for non pressure pipe applications, preferably for outdoor use, for above as well as underground drainage and sewerage pipe systems, surface water pipes, pipes for cable protection, pipes for cold climate conditions and for indoor use, soil and waste water pipes.

Abstract: A rigid ductwork component for a residential, commercial, or industrial air handling system that is comprised of a rigid, tubular, fire retardant layer including a foamed or non-foamed polymer resin and a fire retardant compound. In some embodiments, the ductwork component satisfies the requirements of UL E-84 rating, and the fire retardant compound includes nanoparticles.

Abstract: A method is provided involving manufacturing a solid monolithic hollow ceramic liner, such as a cylinder, reducing cone and bend and then wrapping the solid monolithic hollow ceramic liner with a fiber glass resin. This forms an external housing for the mold and flange connections can be fixed on either end to facilitate its connection to valves, pumps and other piping systems.

Abstract: Yarn loops are unwound from a stationary weft-winding drum during a weft insertion. A weft-braking device locks the yarn unwinding from the drum at the end of the insertion, and comprises at least one braking member which is arranged by side of the drum near its delivery end and is movable under control of an actuator between a resting position in which it is spaced from the outer surface of the drum and does not interfere with the unwinding yarn, and an operative position in which it engages the outer surface of the drum and cooperates with it to brake the yarn.

Abstract: An apparatus, system and method for dispensing fluid into plant protection devices. A plant protection device has a plurality of flexible longitudinal tubes configurable to surround and protect a plant. A rigid, substantially cylindrical structure with a bottom end and a top end is provided to support the tubes during filling. A manifold is connected to the top end of the cylindrical structure and includes at least an inlet port that is configured to receive fluid into the manifold. A plurality of outlet ports are connected to the manifold and are configured to dispense fluid simultaneously out of the plurality of the outlet ports into the plurality of longitudinal tubes of the plant protection device.

Abstract: Provided is a tire sealant liquid container that accommodates a tire sealant liquid, and that includes: an air inlet guiding therein a compressed air outputted by a compressor; and a tire sealant liquid outlet guiding the tire sealant liquid into a tire. The air inlet is provided at a position above a liquid level of the tire sealant liquid, and the tire sealant liquid outlet is provided at a position below the air inlet.

Abstract: A filling system for hot filling of beverage bottles or containers in a bottle or container filling plant. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

Abstract: A filling system for unpressurized hot filling of beverage bottles or containers in a bottle or container filling plant. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

Abstract: A method of repairing a leaking spill container by lining the existing unit. Additionally the liner can be used to convert a single walled spill container into a double walled spill container.

Abstract: A fuel receiver assembly, that permits replacement of a worn fuel receiver without draining the fuel tank, includes a check valve receptacle having a male-pipe-threaded nipple which engages the female-threaded pipe coupling of the fuel tank. The check valve receptacle has a spring-biased, normally closed check valve that prevents fuel from escaping from the fuel tank. Fuel pressure from the refueling pump opens the normally-closed check valve. The check valve receptacle is designed to be a relatively permanent installation in the fuel tank, having ultra-low-wear components. The check valve receptacle also has a female-threaded socket that is coaxial with the male-pipe-threaded nipple. A specially-designed male-threaded fuel receiver engages the female-threaded socket. Sealing between the check valve receptacle and the replaceable fuel receiver is accomplished by an O-ring seal installed on the fuel receiver.

Abstract: A highly portable sand bag hopper has the shape of a cabinet with the front open. The top of the cabinet has a loading opening for loading sand into a lower cone. The loading cone has a larger upper end attached to the top opening and a lower, smaller tapered end inside the cabinet. A horizontal sliding door is located near the lower, smaller tapered end of the cone and opens and closes the lower discharge opening. The sliding door is rotatably attached to a horizontal lever by a pin. The lever arm and door are normally biased closed by a spring. The upper part of the cone is loaded with sand at a predetermined level and a sand bag is attached or held under the lower discharge opening. As the lever arm is pulled towards the back of the cabinet, the lower door slides open, discharging the sand into the sand bag. The upper part of the cone may be marked to measure discreet amounts of sand to be discharged into the sand bag.