Patents Issued in May 9, 2013
  • Publication number: 20130112240
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a polar-axis solar tracker comprising a series of rows of photovoltaic modules arranged on support structures formed by stringers and longitudinal shafts, wherein the support structures of the rows of photovoltaic modules are articulated in rotating assembly by means of hinges which establish an axis of rotation parallel to the shaft of said support structures of the photovoltaic modules, having an operating system which actuates the longitudinal movement of a bar, which actuates the pivoting rotation of the support structures of the photovoltaic modules on the corresponding hinges and through the connecting rods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: MECANIZADOS SOLARES, S.L.
    Inventors: Stavros Mastorakis, Jose Carlos Alpuente Luengo, Nuria Diaz Contador, Diego Leon Muñoz, Ana Isabel Casbas Alejandre
  • Publication number: 20130112241
    Abstract: The invention relates to a photovoltaic module comprising a plurality of photovoltaic cells electrically connected in series via connection means comprising electrical conductors. Each connection means comprises an optical device having a reflection-diffractive or transmission-diffractive optical behaviour, and each connection means consists of a sheet formed from a material transparent to incident rays containing at least one network of electrical conductor wires.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Commissariat A L'Energie Atomique Et Aux Energies Alternatives
    Inventors: Eric Gerritsen, Philippe Thony
  • Publication number: 20130112242
    Abstract: A method of concentrating directional radiant energy using reflective optics and receivers that convert that energy wherein the receivers are situated in the body of the reflector on risers parallel to the direction of radiant energy, each said riser bounded by at least one parabolic mirror lying closer and another lying farther from the energy source, where the focus or foci of said mirrors lie substantially in the direction faced by the receiver situated in said riser. The reflector geometries include ones in which the mirrors are parabolic cylinder sections and require only one-axis tacking to focus, and ones in which the mirrors are paraboloid sections and require two-axis tracking to focus sunlight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Sun Synchrony
    Inventor: Sun Synchrony
  • Publication number: 20130112243
    Abstract: A photovoltaic device according to one embodiment includes an array of photovoltaically active microstructures each having a generally cylindrical outer periphery and a dome-shaped tip, each of the microstructures being characterized as absorbing at least 70% of light passing through an outer layer thereof. Additional embodiments are also presented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: C/O Q1 NANOSYSTEMS (DBA BLOO SOLAR)
    Inventors: Mohan Krishan Bhan, Mark Schroeder, Larry Bawden, John Fisher, John Bohland, Bob Smith
  • Publication number: 20130112244
    Abstract: Low bandgap, monolithic, multi-bandgap, optoelectronic devices (10), including PV converters, photodetectors, and LED's, have lattice-matched (LM), double-heterostructure (DH), low-bandgap GaInAs(P) subcells (22, 24) including those that are lattice-mismatched (LMM) to InP, grown on an InP substrate (26) by use of at least one graded lattice constant transition layer (20) of InAsP positioned somewhere between the InP substrate (26) and the LMM subcell(s) (22, 24). These devices are monofacial (10) or bifacial (80) and include monolithic, integrated, modules (MIMs) (190) with a plurality of voltage-matched subcell circuits (262, 264, 266, 270, 272) as well as other variations and embodiments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: ALLIANCE FOR SUSTAINABLE ENERGY, LLC
    Inventor: ALLIANCE FOR SUSTAINABLE ENERGY, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130112245
    Abstract: Certain example embodiments relate to building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) or building adapted photovoltaic (BAPV) systems and components thereof. In certain example embodiments a component includes an asymmetric glass substrate that includes at least first, second, and third surfaces. The third surface can be laminated to a photovoltaic sub-assembly. The first surface can structured to be angled away from a vertical plane of a building at an angle of between 5 and 40 degrees. The first surface may be longer than the second surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Guardian Industries Corp
    Inventor: Alexey KRASNOV
  • Publication number: 20130112246
    Abstract: Thin film photovoltaic devices including a transparent substrate; a thin film stack comprising a transparent conductive oxide layer, a photovoltaic heterojunction, and back contact layer; and, an encapsulation material arranged such that the thin film stack is positioned between the transparent substrate and the encapsulation material are generally provided. The encapsulation material defines a rib element and can be generally positioned such that the rib element extends away from the thin film stack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: PRIMESTAR SOLAR, INC.
    Inventors: Jed Emeron Isom, Scott Daniel Feldman-Peabody
  • Publication number: 20130112247
    Abstract: A frame member is disclosed for a mounting a solar panel in a solar module. Embodiments of the frame member include an elongated outer sleeve having a channel configured for receiving an elongated inner reinforcing member disposed therein. The reinforcing member may be slidably inserted into the channel in some embodiments and is operable to structurally strengthen the outer sleeve. The reinforcing member may be made of a material having a greater tensile strength than the outer sleeve. A method for assembling the frame is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Solar, Ltd.
    Inventors: Szu-Han Li, Thomas Tong Hong Fu
  • Publication number: 20130112248
    Abstract: The invention is a new stabilized racking system for solar cell panels on a surface through a novel use of ballast weights and a wind optimized design. The system is further optimized to fit a range of sizes and thicknesses of modules through a combination of self adjusting end clamps, adjustable tilt legs, and unique wind screen design. The system can include an array of individual solar panel systems that are reinforced in both lateral directions to reduce the amount of ballast weight required.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: MAINSTREAM ENERGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: MAINSTREAM ENERGY CORPORATION
  • Publication number: 20130112249
    Abstract: Disclosed are a dye sensitized solar cell and a sealing method thereof. The dye sensitized solar cell includes: an upper electrode glass substrate and a lower electrode glass substrate having a hole formed in at least one thereof; a first sealing material forming a cell internal space by maintaining an interval between the upper electrode glass substrate and the lower electrode glass substrate; an electrolytic solution filled in the cell internal space between the upper electrode glass substrate and the lower electrode glass substrate; and a plug inserted and pressed into the hole to seal the hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: ELECTRONICS AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventor: ELECTRONICS AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS R
  • Publication number: 20130112250
    Abstract: A process for the formation of at least one aluminum p-doped surface region of a semiconductor substrate comprising the steps: (1) providing a semiconductor substrate, (2) applying and drying an aluminum paste on at least one surface area of the semiconductor substrate, (3) firing the dried aluminum paste, and (4) removing the fired aluminum paste with water, wherein the aluminum paste employed in step (2) includes particulate aluminum, an organic vehicle and 3 to 20 wt. % of glass frit, based on total aluminum paste composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: E I DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY
    Inventor: E I DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY
  • Publication number: 20130112251
    Abstract: A process for the formation of at least one aluminum p-doped surface region of an n-type semiconductor substrate comprising the steps: (1) providing an n-type semiconductor substrate, (2) applying and drying an aluminum paste on at least one surface area of the n-type semiconductor substrate, (3) firing the dried aluminum paste, and (4) removing the fired aluminum paste with water, wherein the aluminum paste employed in step (2) includes particulate aluminum, an organic vehicle and 3 to 20 wt. % of glass frit, based on total aluminum paste composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: E I DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY
    Inventor: E I DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY
  • Publication number: 20130112252
    Abstract: A solar cell including a first conductive type semiconductor substrate; a first conductive type first semiconductor layer on a back surface of the semiconductor substrate; a second conductive type second semiconductor layer on the back surface of the semiconductor substrate at a height different from the first semiconductor layer, the second semiconductor layer being separated from the first semiconductor layer; and a passivation layer on the back surface of the semiconductor substrate. The passivation layer covers at least a portion of the first semiconductor layer and at least a portion of the second semiconductor layer. The passivation layer includes impurities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Kyoung-Jin Seo, Czang-Ho Lee, Hyun-Jong Kim, Min Park, Jun-Ki Hong, Byong-Gook Jeong
  • Publication number: 20130112253
    Abstract: A solar cell including a first conductive type semiconductor substrate; a first intrinsic semiconductor layer on a front surface of the semiconductor substrate; a first conductive type first semiconductor layer on at least one surface of the first intrinsic semiconductor layer; a second conductive type second semiconductor layer on a back surface of the semiconductor substrate; a second intrinsic semiconductor layer between the second semiconductor layer and the semiconductor substrate; a first conductive type third semiconductor layer on the back surface of the semiconductor substrate, the third semiconductor layer being spaced apart from the second semiconductor layer; and a third intrinsic semiconductor layer between the third semiconductor layer and the semiconductor substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Min-Seok OH, Doo-Youl Lee, Young-Jin KIM, Min PARK, Yun-Seok LEE, Nam-Kyu SONG, Dong-Seop KIM, Cho-Young LEE, Chan-Bin MO, Young-Su KIM, Hoon-Ha JEON, Yeon-Ik JANG, Jun-Ki HONG, Young-Sang PARK, Chan-Yoon JUNG
  • Publication number: 20130112254
    Abstract: A photovoltaic cell of high efficiency may be obtained using metallic nanoparticles or nanostructures as the main light absorbing element in the photosensitive layer of the cell, which absorb the light through a surface plasmon or polaron mechanism. The cell comprises at least one photosensitive layer containing nanoparticles or nanostructures each between a n-doped and a p-doped charge transport layer, characterized in that the nanoparticles or nanostructures are the main light absorbing element in the photosensitive layer, the nanoparticles or nanostructures have metallic conductivity and absorb near infrared, visible and/or ultraviolet light through a surface plasmon or polaron mechanism, and the nanoparticles or nanostructures have at least one of their dimensions of size between 0.1 and 500 nm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: BASF SE
    Inventor: BASF SE
  • Publication number: 20130112255
    Abstract: A transparent front electrode for a photovoltaic device comprising at least the following layers in sequence: —a glass substrate; —a lower anti-reflection layer, comprising in sequence from the glass substrate *a base layer of an (oxi)nitride of silicon and/or an (oxi)nitride of aluminium, *a middle layer of an oxide of Zn and Sn, *a top layer of an oxide of Zn; —a silver-based functional layer; and —an upper anti-reflection layer comprising in sequence from the silver-based functional layer *a first barrier layer of an oxide of Ni and Cr, *a second barrier layer of an Al-doped oxide of Zn, and *a buffer layer; wherein the first barrier layer of an oxide of Ni and Cr is located directly in contact with the silver-based functional layer or the first barrier layer of an oxide of Ni and Cr is separated from the silver-based functional layer by one or more additional barrier layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: PILKINGTON GROUP LIMITED
    Inventors: Neil McSporran, Gary Robert Nichol
  • Publication number: 20130112256
    Abstract: A photovoltaic device operable to convert light to electricity, comprising a substrate, one or more structures essentially perpendicular to the substrate, and a wavelength-selective layer disposed on the substrate, wherein the structures comprise a crystalline semiconductor material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Young-June YU, Munib WOBER
  • Publication number: 20130112257
    Abstract: Thin film photovoltaic devices are generally provided. The thin film photovoltaic devices can include a transparent substrate that has a first volumetric thermal expansion coefficient; a thin film stack comprising a transparent conductive oxide layer, a photovoltaic heterojunction, and back contact layer; and, a composite encapsulation material on the back contact layer. The thin film stack is generally positioned between the transparent substrate and the composite encapsulation material. The composite encapsulation material can have a second volumetric thermal expansion coefficient that is within about +/?40% of the first volumetric thermal expansion coefficient of the transparent substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: PRIMESTAR SOLAR, INC.
    Inventors: Jed Emeron Isom, Scott Daniel Feldman-Peabody
  • Publication number: 20130112258
    Abstract: A solar cell with improved photoelectric conversion efficiency is disclosed. The cell solar cell includes a substrate, along with a reflection electrode layer, a light absorption layer, and a transparent layer sequentially laminated on the substrate. The reflection electrode layer includes a first electrode layer contacting the substrate, nanoparticles on the first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer on the first electrode layer and covering the nanoparticles. The second electrode layer has a first surface-roughness of nanometer (nm) scale.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Joong-Hyun Park, Myung-Hun Shin
  • Publication number: 20130112259
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a solar cell from a p-doped or n-doped silicon substrate having a first main surface used as an incident-light side and a second main surface used as a back side includes: depositing a thin layer onto the second main surface; depositing a dielectric, glass-forming paste onto the second main surface and drying it, in order to cover the thin layer; heating and/or sintering the paste on the second main surface at temperatures greater than app. 577° C., to produce an aluminum dopant layer in the second main surface; and removing the glass layer formed during the heating and/or sintering, as well as an aluminum-silicon eutectic layer formed during the heating and/or sintering, from the second main surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Hans-Joachim Krokoszinski
  • Publication number: 20130112260
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for preparing, on a silicon wafer, an n+pp+ or p+nn+ structure which includes the following consecutive steps: a) on a p or n silicon wafer (1), which includes a front surface (8) and a rear surface (9), a layer of boron-doped silicon oxide (BSG) (2) is formed on the rear surface (9) by PECVD, followed by a SiOx diffusion barrier (3); b) a source of phosphorus is diffused such that the phosphorus and the boron co-diffuse and in order also to form: on the front surface (8) of the wafer obtained at the end of step a), a layer of phosphorus-doped silicon oxide (PSG) (4) and an n+ doped area (5); and on the rear surface of the wafer obtained at the end of step a), a boron-rich area (BRL) (6), as well as a p+ doped area (7); c) the layers of BSG (2) and PSG (4) oxides and SiOx (3) are removed, the BRL (6) is oxidised and the layer resulting from said oxidation is removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicants: PHOTOWATT INTERNATIONAL, CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE, INSTITUT NATIONAL DES SCIENCES APPLIQUEES DE LYON, SYNERGIES POUR EQUIPEMENTS MICRO-ELECTRONIQUE COMMUNICATION OPTIQUE SA
    Inventors: Barbara Bazer-Bachi, Mustapha Lemiti, Nam Le Quang, Yvon Pellegrin
  • Publication number: 20130112261
    Abstract: An organic vehicle used in the manufacture of electroconductive silver paste. The organic vehicle comprises an organic binder, a surfactant, and an organic solvent. The preferred embodiment of the invention utilizes at least one of PVP, PMMA, or PVB as the organic binder, allowing for high compatibility with the metallic particles and resulting in an electroconductive paste with low viscosity for fine line printability. Another aspect of the invention relates to an electroconductive paste composition. The preferred embodiment utilizes metallic particles, glass frit, and an organic vehicle comprising a binder, namely at least one of PVP, PMMA, or PVB, a surfactant, and an organic solvent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Heraeus Precious Metals North America Conshohocken LLC
    Inventor: Heraeus Precious Metals North America Conshoh
  • Publication number: 20130112262
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing a photovoltaic solar cell having a front side designed for coupling in light, comprising the following method steps: A Producing a plurality of cutouts in a semiconductor substrate of a base doping type, B Producing one or more emitter regions of an emitter doping type at least at the front side of the semiconductor substrate, wherein the emitter doping type is opposite to the base doping type, C Applying an electrically insulating insulation layer and D Producing metallic feed through structures in the cutouts, at least one metallic base contact structure at the rear side of the solar cell, which is formed in an electrically conductive manner with the semiconductor substrate in a base doping region, at least one metallic front-side contact structure at the front side of the solar cell, which is formed in an electrically conductive manner with the emitter region at the front side of the semiconductor substrate, and at least one rear-side contact structure at the
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft Zur Forderung Der Angewandten Forschung E.V.
    Inventors: Benjamin Thaidigsmann, Florian Clement, Daniel Biro, Andreas Wolf, Ralf Preu
  • Publication number: 20130112263
    Abstract: A solar cell. The solar cell includes a substrate, a first layer comprising a first copper-based material deposited upon the substrate, the first copper-based material electrically attracted to the substrate or to a first optional deposit layer deposited between the substrate and the first layer, and a second layer comprising a second copper-based material deposited upon the first layer or an second optional deposit layer deposited between the first layer and the second layer, the second copper-based material electrically attracted to the first layer or to the second optional deposit layer, wherein the first copper-based material and the second copper-based material are selected from the group consisting of copper indium gallium (di)selenide (CIGS), copper indium selenium (CIS), and cadmium sulfate (CdS).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: INDIANA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mangilal Agarwal, Khodadad Varahramyan, Sudhir Shrestha
  • Publication number: 20130112264
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to methods for forming a doped amorphous silicon oxide layer utilized in thin film solar cells. In one embodiment, a method for forming a doped p-type amorphous silicon containing layer on a substrate includes providing a substrate in a processing chamber, supplying a gas mixture having a hydrogen-based gas, a silicon-based gas and a carbon and oxygen containing gas into the processing chamber, the gas mixture having a volumetric flow ratio of the hydrogen-based gas to the silicon-based gas between about 5 and about 15, wherein a volumetric flow ratio of the carbon and oxygen containing gas to the total combined flow of hydrogen-based gas and the silicon-based gas is between about 10 percent and about 50 percent; and maintaining a process pressure of the gas mixture within the processing chamber at between about 1 Torr and about 10 Torr while forming a doped p-type amorphous silicon containing layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Dapeng Wang, Yong Kee Chae
  • Publication number: 20130112265
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides a heterojunction solar cell. The solar cell includes a metallurgical-grade Si (MG-Si) substrate, a layer of heavily doped crystalline-Si situated above the MG-Si substrate, a layer of lightly doped crystalline-Si situated above the heavily doped crystalline-Si layer, a backside ohmic-contact layer situated on the backside of the MG-Si substrate, a passivation layer situated above the heavily doped crystalline-Si layer, a layer of heavily doped amorphous Si (a-Si) situated above the passivation layer, a layer of transparent-conducting-oxide (TCO) situated above the heavily doped a-Si layer, and a front ohmic-contact electrode situated above the TCO layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: SILEVO, INC.
    Inventor: SILEVO, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130112266
    Abstract: The photoelectric conversion device of the present invention is a photoelectric conversion device which includes a substrate on which the following are layered in the order listed below: a lower electrode layer; a photoelectric conversion semiconductor layer which includes, as a major component, at least one kind of compound semiconductor having a chalcopyrite structure formed of a group Ib element, a group IIIb element, and a group VIb element; a buffer layer; and a transparent conductive layer, in which the buffer layer includes a ternary compound of a cadmium-free metal, oxygen, and sulfur, and a has a carbonyl ion on a surface facing the transparent conductive layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2013
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventor: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
  • Publication number: 20130112267
    Abstract: A thin film photovoltaic module that is connectable to a terminal includes a first glass sheet defining a sun facing surface and a second glass sheet defining a back facing surface opposite the front side surface. The second glass sheet includes a feed-though opening extending through the second glass sheet. A photovoltaic material is between the first glass sheet and the second glass sheet. An encapsulant material is between the first glass sheet and the second glass sheet that bonds the first glass sheet and the second glass sheet together and seals the photovoltaic material from moisture. A conductor is electrically connected to the photovoltaic material at one end. The conductor passes through the feed-though opening. A reinforcing member is disposed on the sun facing surface of the first glass sheet. The reinforcing member has a footprint hanging over at least a portion of the feed-through opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Kevin Lee Wasson
  • Publication number: 20130112268
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition consisting of a fluoropolymer and a white inorganic filler, said composition being intended for the manufacture of monolayer films opaque to visible tight and to UV radiation, useable in particular in the field of photovoltaic cells. The polymeric composition consists of a fluoropolymer and zinc oxide (ZnO), said filler being present in said composition in a weight proportion of 20 to 40%, preferably 20 to 35%. The use of this filler serves on the one hand to avoid the addition of acrylic polymers to the fluoropolymer, and on the other hand, to use processing temperatures that are compatible with the manufacture of a monolayer film by extrusion blow moulding, that is, a temperature of about 220 to 260° C., thereby serving to prevent the degradation of the fluoropolymer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Arkema France
    Inventors: Anthony Bonnet, Francois Beaume, Stephane Bizet, Nicolas Devaux
  • Publication number: 20130112269
    Abstract: There is provided a solar cell comprising: a substrate; a rear electrode layer disposed on the substrate; a light absorption layer disposed on the rear electrode layer; and a window layer disposed on the light absorption layer, wherein the window layer includes a plurality of conductive particles. The conductive particles improve the optical and electrical properties of the window layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: LG INNOTEK CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chul Hwan Choi
  • Publication number: 20130112270
    Abstract: An electronic device module comprises: A. At least one electronic device, e.g., a solar cell, and B. A polymeric material in intimate contact with at least one surface of the electronic device, the polymeric material comprising an ethylene multi-block copolymer. Typically, the polyolefin material is an ethylene multi-block copolymer with a density of less than about 0.90 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cc). The polymeric material can fully encapsulate the electronic device, or it can be laminated to one face surface of the device. Optionally, the polymeric material can further comprise a scorch inhibitor, and the copolymer can remain uncrosslinked or it can be crosslinked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Dow Global Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Dow Global Technologies LLC
  • Publication number: 20130112271
    Abstract: The present invention provides a polyester film for sealing the backside of solar cell having excellent light reflectivity and durability and good electric insulation. A polyester film for sealing the backside of solar cell having a light reflectance at 550 nm wavelength of 50% or more and containing 3 to 50% by mass of inorganic fine particles, characterized in that acid value of the film is 1 to 30 eq/ton and limiting viscosity of the film is 0.60 to 0.80 dL/g.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOBO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshitomo Ikehata, Akira Shimizu, Shiro Hamamoto, Jun Inagaki, Shinji Sawazaki
  • Publication number: 20130112272
    Abstract: The invention relates to the use of non-transparent, methacrylate-containing one-, two- or multi-layered films in flexible photovoltaic systems, and to the production of said films by extrusion coating, extrusion lamination (adhesive lamination, melt lamination or hotmelt lamination) or glue lamination. For this purpose, e.g. a thin, inorganic or metallically coated film, for example made of PET, is laminated or coextruded with a weather-resistant film, e.g. a film made of PMMA or PMMA polyolefin coextrudate. In particular, laminates are produced in which at least one of the two layers is non-transparent. An optional inorganic oxide or metal layer has the property of a high barrier effect against water vapour and oxygen while the PMMA layer exhibits weather resistance stability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: EVONIK RÖHM GmbH
    Inventors: Jochen Ackermann, Florian Schwager
  • Publication number: 20130112273
    Abstract: The present invention provides a semiconductor film which adapts to the solar cell in both of band gap and electric resistivity or carrier concentration. In the present invention, a semiconductor film is composed of a semiconductor including group 11 elements, group 12 elements, group 13 elements and group 16 element of the ratio indicated as a composition formula (1) in below, AxByCzDw??(1) wherein A, B, C and D indicate said group 11 elements, said group 12 elements, said group 13 elements and said group 16 elements, respectively, x, y, z and w are respectively numbers indicating a composition ratio, and x and z satisfy a relationship of x/z>1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takayuki Negami, Teruaki Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20130112274
    Abstract: A low-cost fabrication technique, readily extensible to volume manufacturing is presented for thin strip solar cells. A wafer structure is disclosed for formation of thin strips. Plurality of strips is formed and mechanically supported by a thin layer of silicon with uneven surface. Processing methods are also disclosed to fabricate solar cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: QXWAVE INC
    Inventor: Xiangcun Long
  • Publication number: 20130112275
    Abstract: A photovoltaic device including a single junction solar cell provided by an absorption layer of a type IV semiconductor material having a first conductivity, and an emitter layer of a type III-V semiconductor material having a second conductivity, wherein the type III-V semiconductor material has a thickness that is no greater than 50 nm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Bahman Hekmatshoar-Tabari, Ali Khakifirooz, Devendra K. Sadana, Ghavam G. Shahidi, Davood Shahrjerdi
  • Publication number: 20130112276
    Abstract: Methods and systems for chemical management. In one embodiment, a blender is coupled to a processing system and configured to supply an appropriate solution or solutions to the system. Solutions provided by the blender are then reclaimed from the system and subsequently reintroduced for reuse. The blender may be operated to control the concentrations of various constituents in the solution prior to the solution being reintroduced to the system for reuse. Some chemicals introduced to the system may be temperature controlled. A back end vacuum pump subsystem separates gases from liquids as part of a waste management system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicants: Air Liquide Electronics Systems, Air Liquide Electronics U.S. LP
    Inventors: Air Liquide Electronics U.S. LP, Air Liquide Electronics Systems
  • Publication number: 20130112277
    Abstract: A turbomachine system and method, with the system including a slug detector coupled to a main line to detect a slug flow in a multiphase fluid in the main line. The system also includes a compressor fluidly coupled to the main line and disposed downstream of the slug detector, and a bypass line fluidly coupled to the main line upstream of the compressor and downstream of the compressor. The system further includes at least an upstream control valve fluidly coupled to the main line upstream of the compressor and communicably coupled to the slug detector. The upstream control valve is configured to actuate between a normal position, in which the upstream control valve directs fluid to the compressor, and a bypass position, in which the upstream control valve directs fluid to the bypass line, according to when the slug detector detects a slug flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: DRESSER-RAND COMPANY
    Inventors: William C. Maier, Pascal Lardy, Jose L. Gilarranz
  • Publication number: 20130112278
    Abstract: The present invention provides a bistable pulse solenoid valve control system and method. The control system includes a bistable pulse solenoid valve having a coil current, and including a coil frame, a coil having a magnetic flux, at least two permanent magnets, a valve core disposed inside the coil frame, and a frame configured to encapsulate the permanent magnets, the coil, the valve core, and the coil frame. The system also includes a main control circuit, a polarity conversion control circuit, and a drive current sampling detection circuit. The main control circuit is configured to generate a control signal and the polarity conversion control circuit is configured to control the direction and power on-off time of the coil current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Shanghai Kohler Electronics, Ltd.
    Inventor: Shanghai Kohler Electronics, Ltd.
  • Publication number: 20130112279
    Abstract: A system for melting adhesive comprises a melter, a feed system, a pump, and a controller. The melter has a melting volume, and receives and melts adhesive. The feed system supplies unmelted adhesive to the melter, while the pump pumps melted adhesive from the melter. The controller directs the pump to pump melted adhesive at a throughput rate such that the ratio of the melting volume to the throughput rate is a dwell time less than a discoloration time of the adhesive. In some embodiments, the controller also directs the feed system to replenish adhesive in the melter as a function of adhesive level in the melter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: GRACO MINNESOTA INC.
    Inventor: Graco Minnesota Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130112280
    Abstract: A hot melt system includes a melt system, a feed system, a dispensing system, and a pump. The melt system melts the pellets to produce a liquid, and the pump delivers the liquid to the dispensing system. The feed system is coordinated with the operation of the pump to control the amount of pellets delivered to the melt system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: GRACO MINNESOTA INC.
    Inventor: GRACO MINNESOTA INC.
  • Publication number: 20130112281
    Abstract: Disclosed in one aspect is a valve comprising (a) a valve body having a poppet valve chamber with an axis running there through; (b) a seat having a seat sealing surface, and a outer-seat surface, the seat located axially within the poppet valve chamber; and (c) a poppet having a poppet sealing surface, the poppet being located axially within the poppet valve chamber; wherein a poppet-seat interface is created between at least a portion of the seat sealing surface and at least a portion of the poppet sealing surface, the poppet-seat interface being at an angle ? of from 20 to 90° to the axis. In one embodiment the seat is removable, allowing the geometry of at least the poppet head surface and/or the seat inside surface, which defines a fluid flow-path cross-section, to be tailored.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: ExxonMobil Chemical Patents Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher K. Morgan, Eric R. Lewis, Michael W. Ackman
  • Publication number: 20130112282
    Abstract: An assembling method of a vehicular air-conditioning apparatus including various equipment, which is required for air-conditioning a vehicle, mounted in a vehicular-air-conditioner frame on a production line includes modularization of, among the various equipment, at least a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, and an outdoor heat exchanger off the production line, and, further, modularization of a refrigeration cycle by connecting the above modules with refrigerant pipes off the production line, as well as incorporating the modularized refrigerant cycle into assembly work on the production line as a refrigerant cycle module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Taichi Uto, Hiroshi Uehara
  • Publication number: 20130112283
    Abstract: A connector can include a first portion with a cylindrical end. The connector can also include a second portion having a cylindrical cavity and a plurality of collars disposed along an interior circumference of the cavity and extending inward so as to contact the first portion when the first portion is inserted into the second portion and to create a seal between the cylindrical end and the cylindrical cavity. The connector can further include a pressure equalization channel with an opening toward the cylindrical cavity at one end and a valve disposed at the other end, the valve being configured to have a first position at which the pressure equalization channel is open to an exterior, and a second position at which the pressure equalization channel is sealed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Yuriy Zakuskin
  • Publication number: 20130112284
    Abstract: A liquid storage container has a double structure provided with an outer container forming an outer shell and a liner arranged in the outer container, the liner accommodating a liquid, wherein the liquid is pushed out from the liner by gas pressure introduced into the outer container so as to flow out to an exterior of the container from a siphon of a plug attached to a stopper portion of the outer container, a substantially concentric drop tube is arranged on an outer periphery of the siphon so as to form a space portion serving as a liquid flow passage, a through hole is formed on a tube wall of the drop tube, and an outlet opening for making the inflow liquid coming from the through hole flow out from the liquid flow passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: SURPASS INDUSTRY CO., LTD.,
    Inventor: SURPASS INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
  • Publication number: 20130112285
    Abstract: A venturi eductor comprising a flow passage for a first liquid, a dispensing passage with an opening into the flow passage to allow a second liquid to be drawn therethrough and into a first liquid flowing through the flow passage, and a flow restrictor in the dispensing passage, in which the flow restrictor comprises a body with a plurality of nozzles passing therethrough with varying sizes of orifice, which body is movable between a first position in which a first of said nozzles is disposed in the path of the second liquid, and further positions in each of which a further of said nozzles is disposed in the path of the second liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: BRIGHTWELL DISPENSERS LIMITED
    Inventor: BRIGHTWELL DISPENSERS LIMITED
  • Publication number: 20130112286
    Abstract: A quick connect coupler for applications transmitting compressed fluid is disclosed, having a poppet valve mounted within a body. A body cap may be detachably threaded to the body, putting the poppet valve into an airflow position. The poppet valve is movable from a sealing position where it sits against a seat and O-ring, preventing the passage of compressed fluid through the valve, to an airflow position that permits air to flow through the valve. The poppet valve is biased to the sealing position by a spring, and in the airflow position the poppet is pushed away from the seat by a plunger mounted within the body cap. The poppet valve has a core and a head, and the core has at least one aperture therein for the passage of compressed fluids, and the head has at least one indentation corresponding to the aperture. The invention may be used for paintball with a described coiled air hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: FERN KIROUAC, CLAUDE LONGPRE
  • Publication number: 20130112287
    Abstract: A sanitary fitting includes a socket part configured for fastening the sanitary fitting on a substructure. In axial extension, an accommodation component is connected to this socket part axially and in a rotation-fixed manner, with the accommodation component having an accommodation cavity for a connection base and a valve cartridge. These two components establish the supporting structure of the sanitary fitting. An outer housing is attached to this structure, and said housing can be made from any material, since it does not have a supporting function and does not have any contact with the water. By substituting the socket part, sanitary fittings differing with respect to their size and design may be produced, wherein the accommodation component including valve cartridge, connection base and fastening device for the valve cartridge in the accommodation component are unchanged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: HANSGROHE SE
    Inventor: Hansgrone SE
  • Publication number: 20130112288
    Abstract: A system and method employing a heater-orifice may be used to heat a flow path and to control the supply of vapor from a vaporizable material to an object. Variable or constant diameter heating rods may be used to apply heat to a flow path in order to control the supply of vapor from a vaporizable material. A baffle plate may be used to control the vapor pressure and vapor flow from a vessel containing a vaporizable material. The heater-orifice, heating rods, and baffle plate may be used alone or in combination with one another to control the flow of vaporizable material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: First Solar, Inc.
    Inventor: First Solar, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130112289
    Abstract: A plug assembly is provided for a high-pressure valve of the type with a tubular body extending along a longitudinal axis and in which, under the action of a piloted actuator, a needle moves longitudinally between a closed position and an open position. The plug assembly includes a plug having a flat part able to be fixed onto the body transversally to the longitudinal axis, and a spring intended to apply to the needle a force biasing it axially towards the closed position. The spring is fixed to the plug forming with it an integrated assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES HOLDING, S.ARL
    Inventor: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES HOLDING , S.arl