Patents Issued in October 24, 2013
  • Publication number: 20130276849
    Abstract: A system includes at least one thermoelectric generator configured to generate electricity in response to a temperature difference across at least a portion of the at least one thermoelectric generator. The system further includes at least one fluid conduit in thermal communication with the at least one thermoelectric generator. The at least one fluid conduit is configured to have at least one working fluid flow through the at least one fluid conduit. The system further includes at least one device configured to direct the at least one working fluid through the at least one fluid conduit. The at least one device is powered by at least a portion of the electricity generated by the at least one thermoelectric generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Gentherm, Incorporated
    Inventors: Dmitri Kossakovski, Douglas T. Crane, Vladimir Jovovic
  • Publication number: 20130276850
    Abstract: The present invention provides thermoelectric device comprising a first electrode, a second electrode, a first electrolyte composition capable of transporting cations, a second electrolyte composition capable of transporting anions and a connector comprising mobile cations and mobile anions, wherein the first electrolyte composition is connected to said first electrode by being in ionic contact and the second electrolyte composition is connected to said second electrode by being in ionic contact and said connector is in ionic contact with said first and said second electrolyte composition, such that an applied temperature difference over said electrolyte compositions or an applied voltage over said electrodes facilitate transport of ions to and/or from said electrodes via said electrolyte compositions. There is also provided a method for generating electric current and a method for generating a temperature difference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: ACREO SWEDISH ICT AB
    Inventors: Xavier CRISPIN, Magnus BERGGREN, Hui WANG
  • Publication number: 20130276851
    Abstract: The present invention provides a thermoelectric device comprising a first electrode, a second electrode, and conducting composition capable of conducting ions, wherein the first and second electrodes are ionically coupled via said conducting composition such that an applied temperature difference over said conducting composition or an applied voltage over said electrodes facilitate transport of ions to and/or from said electrodes via said conducting composition, and wherein said conducting composition capable of conducting ions comprises a polymeric electrolyte. There is also provided a method for generating electric current and a method for generating a temperature difference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: ACREO SWEDISH ICT AB
    Inventors: Xavier CRISPIN, Magnus BERGGREN, Hui WANG
  • Publication number: 20130276852
    Abstract: The invention relates to a thermoelectric structural element (9) for generating thermoelectric power that is formed by at least two layers (1, 2) and two metallic electrical contacts (4, 5). The layers (1, 2) contain mixtures primarily of chalk and quartz sand, with the layers (1, 2) comprising different mixtures. Using different thicknesses of the metallic electrical contacts (4, 5) and the layers (1, 2), the thermoelectric structural element (9) can be produced, inter alia, as a facade panelling, masonry wall element or wallpaper. The invention also relates to a method for producing a thermoelectric structural element (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Jehad Aiysh
  • Publication number: 20130276853
    Abstract: A thermoelectric module includes an inner circumferential surface, an axis and an outer circumferential surface. A plurality of semiconductor elements is disposed with thermoelectric material in the direction of the axis and between the inner circumferential surface and the outer circumferential surface and are electrically interconnected in an alternating manner. At least one part of the semiconductor elements has at least one inner frame part or an outer frame part. At least some of the inner frame parts form an interrupted inner circumferential surface or outer frame parts form an interrupted outer circumferential surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: ANDREAS EDER, STEFAN NEUGEBAUER, MATTHIAS LINDE, SIGRID LIMBECK, ROLF BRUECK
  • Publication number: 20130276854
    Abstract: The present invention is premised upon a connector device and method that can more easily electrically connect a plurality of PV devices and/or locate these devices upon a building or structure in two rows/columns with opposing current flows. It also can optionally provide some additional components (e.g. a bypass diode and/or an indicator means) and can enhance the service-ability of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: DOW GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Inventors: Ryan S. Gaston, James R. Keenihan, Andrew T. Graham, Joe A. Langmaid
  • Publication number: 20130276855
    Abstract: An interconnect assembly. The interconnect assembly includes a trace that includes a plurality of electrically conductive portions. The plurality of electrically conductive portions is configured both to collect current from a first solar cell and to interconnect electrically to a second solar cell. In addition, the plurality of electrically conductive portions is configured such that solar-cell efficiency is substantially undiminished in an event that any one of the plurality of electrically conductive portions is conductively impaired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Mulugeta Zerfu Wudu, Jason Stephen Corneille, Steven Thomas Croft, Steven Douglas Flanders, William James McColl
  • Publication number: 20130276856
    Abstract: A junction box for a solar panel comprises a housing, a lid, a first connector and a second connector. The housing comprises sidewalls and a top wall defining an interior space. The first coupling comprises a first contact element and the second coupling comprises a second contact element. Said contact elements penetrate at least one of the sidewalls, so that the contact elements provide an electrical contact from external contact elements to internal contact elements, such as solder tails. Internal contact elements are arranged at least partially in said interior space. The top wall comprises an opening extending only partially in said top wall. Said opening is located such in the top wall that access to said solder tails in a substantially perpendicular direction to the surface of a solar panel for connecting the solder tail to the solar panel is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Brian Wade MILLS, Robert D. STREET, Danny Cam Toan LU, Yacov ELGAR, Ian Worthington WEATHERLEY, Dustin Delmar Reede CARVER, Jeffrey S. SULLIVAN, Ian McKay PRATT
  • Publication number: 20130276857
    Abstract: The present invention regards a module (10) of photoelectrochemical cells, comprising at least a flat shape substrate (11), with two opposing surfaces and a lateral edge, joining said opposing surfaces along the respective perimeters, on one of said surfaces of said substrate (11) being placed in succession a conductive coating (15) and one or more photoelectrochemical cells (13), said module (1) comprising moreover a first electrode (14) of the whole module and a second electrode (17) of the whole module, wherein said substrate (11) has in correspondence of at least a portion of said lateral edge, means (14, 17, 24, 25, 29) for electrical connection and mechanical coupling with a side by side placed module (10) of the same type. The invention further refers to an electrical and mechanical interconnection system of photoelectrochemical cell modules (10) as previously defined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Giovanni ASCIONE, Alessandro LANUTI, Simone MASTROIANNI, Stefano PENNA, Andrea REALE, Gabriele ZUCCARO
  • Publication number: 20130276858
    Abstract: An outdoor urethane adhesive including a urethane resin obtained by reaction of an isocyanate compound with a polyol having an ester bond. The isocyanate compound contains at least one of an aliphatic isocyanate or an alicyclic isocyanate. The polyol contains both a polyester polyol and an acrylic polyol. The urethane adhesive is excellent in initial adhesion, cured adhesion and flexibility of the cured adhesive film. When the urethane adhesive further includes a hydroxyphenyltriazine-based compound the adhesive has little change in color difference and has improved weatherability. The outdoor adhesive can be used to form a solar battery backsheet. The solar battery backsheet can be used as part of a solar battery module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Yuichi Matsuki, Shouko Ito, Yoshio Yoshida
  • Publication number: 20130276859
    Abstract: A solar cell having improved photoelectric conversion efficiency and a solar cell module are provided. A first electrode (21) has a plurality of first electrode portions (21a) and second electrode portions (21b). Each of the plurality of first electrode portions (21a) is provided so as to extend in a first direction (y). The plurality of first electrode portions (21a) is arranged in a second direction (x), which is perpendicular to the first direction (y). Each of the plurality of first electrode portions (21a) has a linear shape. The plurality of first electrode portions (21a) is connected electrically to a second electrode portion (21b). At least a part of the second electrode portion (22b) is thicker than the first electrode portions (21a).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Takahiro Mishima
  • Publication number: 20130276860
    Abstract: A solar battery cell includes a semiconductor substrate of a first conduction type that includes a dopant diffusion layer on one surface side, a dopant element of a second conduction type being diffused into the dopant diffusion layer, a light-receiving surface side electrode formed on the one surface side of the semiconductor substrate, and a back surface side electrode that is formed on the other surface side of the semiconductor substrate, and a first irregular shape is provided on a surface on the other surface side of the semiconductor substrate, a second irregular shape lower in an optical reflectivity than the first irregular shape is provided on at least a part of a surface on the one surface side of the semiconductor substrate, and the one surface side of the semiconductor substrate is lower in the optical reflectivity than that on the other surface side of the semiconductor substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventor: Shoichi Karakida
  • Publication number: 20130276861
    Abstract: A solar antenna array may comprise an array of antennas that may capture and convert sunlight into electrical power. Methods for constructing the solar antenna array may use a stencil and self aligning semiconductor processing steps to minimize cost. Designs may be optimized for capturing a broad spectrum of visible light and non-polarized light. Testing and disconnecting defective antennas from the array may also be performed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Laurence H. Cooke
  • Publication number: 20130276862
    Abstract: An automatic solar tracking adjustment/control apparatus of solar generation system includes a support assembly, a two-dimensionally movable pivotal rotational assembly disposed on the support assembly, a solar generation module disposed on the support assembly via the pivotal rotational assembly and at least one drive assembly disposed between the support assembly and the solar generation module. The drive assembly drives the solar generation module to tilt in different directions and angles according to reference parameters in a control unit. A detection/correction module is disposed on the solar generation module for detecting actual parameters of the solar generation module. The control unit compares the actual parameters with the reference parameters to modify the output of the drive assembly so as to adjust the tilting direction and inclination angle of the solar generation module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: TOPPER SUN ENERGY TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: TOPPER SUN ENERGY TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
  • Publication number: 20130276863
    Abstract: An adjusting device for adjusting orientation of an energy conversion board comprises a first frame member, a second frame member, a third frame member and a base. The first frame member contains the energy conversion board. The second frame member holds the first frame member. The third frame member holds the second frame member. The base supports the third frame including the other frames and the energy conversion board. The first frame member is rotatable relative to the second frame member, the second frame member is rotatable relative to the third frame, and the third frame member is rotatable relative to the base. The first rotating axis is perpendicular to the second rotating axis, and the third rotating axis is coaxial with the first rotating axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FU TAI HUA INDUSTRY (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: CHING-FENG CHEN, LONG-FONG CHEN, LIN CHEN, LI-YUN KUANG
  • Publication number: 20130276864
    Abstract: A motion controlled tracking mount is provided that includes a lateral rail perpendicular to a longitudinal rail, a first translation element slides on the lateral rail and a second translation element slides on the longitudinal rail and slides onto the lateral rail, a first rotatable connector attached to the first translation element and a second rotatable connector attached to the second translation element that rotate about axes perpendicular to the lateral and longitudinal rails, an apparatus mount with a distal region pivotably connected to the second rotatable connector, where the pivotable connection axis is parallel to a lateral dimension of the mount, and a linkage with a proximal end pivotable connected to the first rotatable connector and a distal end is pivotably connected to a proximal region of the mount, where an axis of the pivotable connection at the distal end is parallel to the lateral dimension of the mount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Matthew Neber, Hohyun Lee, Laughlin Barker, Criselle G. Olaes, Darcy Marumoto, Joseph Valdez
  • Publication number: 20130276865
    Abstract: A photovoltaic module, configured for inclined (with respect to the horizontal surface) installation at a chosen latitude as part of rows of such photovoltaic modules, is complemented with a diffractive element that is configured to form a combination in which a gap between neighboring rows is bridged by the diffractive element to diffract sunlight incident onto so installed diffractive element towards the photovoltaic module. The photovoltaic module and the diffractive elements can be connected to one another in a turnable fashion, for example through hinge, to enable electrical power generation that is substantially time-invariable throughout a portion of a year. Photovoltaic module optionally includes internal holographically-defined diffraction gratings and/or bifacial photovoltaic cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Eric D. Aspnes, Paul S. Hauser
  • Publication number: 20130276866
    Abstract: A linear concentrating solar collector includes two trough-type reflectors having respective curved reflective surfaces that define respective focal lines, and are connected along a common edge in a decentered arrangement such that the focal lines are parallel and spaced-apart, and such that solar radiation reflected by the curved reflective surfaces is concentrated and overlaps in a defocused state. A solar cell is disposed in the overlap region to receive the all of the reflected radiation from the curved reflective surfaces in a defocused state. An optional solid optical structure is used to support and position the trough-type reflectors and solar cell, and to facilitate self-forming of the curved reflective surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Patrick Y. Maeda
  • Publication number: 20130276867
    Abstract: A support assembly for supporting one or more photovoltaic modules on a support surface is disclosed herein. The support assembly includes (i) a body portion, the body portion including a base portion for accommodating one or more ballasts, the body portion comprising polymer; and (ii) integrated grounding means, the integrated ground means configured to provide integrated grounding between adjacent photovoltaic modules. The support assembly is configured to bridge multiple rows of photovoltaic modules without being directly secured to any other support assembly. Thus the support assembly can be utilized to support a wide variety of different sizes of photovoltaic modules. A mounting system for supporting a plurality of photovoltaic modules on a support surface, which comprises a plurality of separate support assemblies, is also disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Brian James Wildes, James Joseph Huth
  • Publication number: 20130276868
    Abstract: The invention relates to a solar collector (1) comprising a collector housing (2), an absorber (3) arranged therein and having a heating medium fluid (13) flowing through it, to absorb solar radiation (28), a return line (6) leading to the absorber (3) and a flow line (7) leading away from the absorber (3). Thereby a pump (14) is arranged on or at least partially inside the collector housing (2) for circulating a heating medium fluid (13) through the absorber (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Sun Master Energiesysteme GmbH
    Inventor: Herbert Huemer
  • Publication number: 20130276869
    Abstract: A flag type hybrid solar cell is provided, which combines nano-wire solar cells using nano-wires and nano-generators using piezoelectric effect, and which is usable anywhere as long as there are sun and the winds, since the nano-wire solar cells absorb solar beam and generate electromotive force during the days, while the nano-generators using piezoelectric effect generate electromotive force with micro vibration of the nano-wires in response to winds, and thus is capable of providing more power generation during the days, by providing the power generation by the nano-wire solar cells added with power generation by the nano-generators using piezoelectric effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: INHA-INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIP INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Im-Jun No, Paik Kyun Shin
  • Publication number: 20130276870
    Abstract: A glass composition for electrode formation includes, as a glass composition expressed in terms of oxides by mass %, 73.1 to 90% of Bi2O3, 2 to 14.5% of B2O3, 0 to 25% of ZnO, 0.2 to 20% of MgO+CaO+SrO+BaO (total content of MgO, CaO, SrO, and BaO), and 0 to 8.5% of Si02+Al2O3 (total content of SiO2 and Al2O3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Kentaro ISHIHARA
  • Publication number: 20130276871
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a P-I-N microcrystalline silicon structure for thin-film solar cells, includes the steps of: (a) forming a P-type layer; (b) forming an I-type layer including a plurality of sub-layers successively stacked on the P-type layer using gas mixtures including fluoride and hydride that have different gas ratios, respectively; and (c) forming an N-type layer on the I-type layer. First, second, and third I-type sub-layers may be formed on the P-type layer using gas mixtures including fluoride and hydride at a first, second, and third gas ratios, respectively. Then, advantageously, the third gas ratio may be larger than the second gas ratio and the second gas ratio may be larger than the first gas ratio, and the first gas ratio may be 8%, the second gas ratio may range between 15% and 35%, and the third gas ratio may range between 35% and 50%.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Yu-Hung CHEN, Jun-Chin LIU, Chun-Heng CHEN
  • Publication number: 20130276872
    Abstract: A solar cell unit comprising a strip plate which has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface, wherein a third doping region and a fourth doping region are arranged on the third surface and the fourth surface respectively, and a first doping region and a second doping region are arranged on side surfaces adjacent to the third surface and the fourth surface respectively; the types of impurities in the third doping region and the fourth doping region are contrary to one another; the surfaces of the first doping region and the second doping region have uniform doping type. Accordingly, the present invention further provides a method for manufacturing a solar cell unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: SUNOVEL SUZHOU TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    Inventors: Haizhou Yin, Huilong Zhu, Zhijiong Luo
  • Publication number: 20130276873
    Abstract: A semiconductor device having elongated structure having high-level injection are provided, as well as making and using such devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Elizabeth Santori, Nathan S. Lewis, Harry A. Atwater
  • Publication number: 20130276874
    Abstract: Tandem photovoltaic cells having a recombination layer, as well as related systems, methods, and components, are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Christoph Brabec, Russell Gaudiana, Christoph Waldauf
  • Publication number: 20130276875
    Abstract: A solar energy collection system includes a solar cell, a transparent covering, and a eutectic interlayer binding the solar cell and the transparent covering together. At least some of a compound of the eutectic interlayer bonds with the transparent covering, raising the melting temperature of the eutectic interlayer above the melting temperature with the full amount of the compound present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: THE AEROSPACE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Bernie F. Carpenter
  • Publication number: 20130276876
    Abstract: A multi-layer backsheet for a photovoltaic module comprising a first layer having a reflectance of more than 25% of a light with a wavelength anywhere from about 1000 nm to about 2100 nm, and a reflectance of less than 35% of all light with a wavelength from about 380 nm to about 750 nm; and a second layer having a reflectance of more than 50% of all light with a wavelength from about 380 nm to about 2000 nm. A photovoltaic module comprising the multi-layer backsheet, a method of making the photovoltaic module, and a method of converting sunlight into electricity by exposing the photovoltaic module to sun light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Awdhoot V. Kerkar, Neo Huang, Jeffrey D. Pratt
  • Publication number: 20130276877
    Abstract: An up-converting electrode and a solar cell that combines the up-converting electrode are disclosed. The up-converting electrode comprises a material that up-converts light from longer wavelengths to shorter wavelengths and an electrically conductive material. The electrically conductive material increases the efficiency of the up-converting material such that more light is up-converted. The up-converting electrode can also serve as an electrical contact for the solar cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventors: Jennifer Anne Dionne, Alberto Salleo, Di Meng Wu
  • Publication number: 20130276878
    Abstract: A photovoltaic cell is provided that enables cost reduction and stable operation with a simple configuration and enhances conversion efficiency by a new technology of forming an energy level in a band gap. In the photovoltaic cell, a substrate, a conductive first electrode, an electromotive force layer, a p-type semiconductor layer, and a conductive second electrode are laminated, electromotive force is generated by photoexciting the electron in the band gap of the electromotive force layer by light irradiation, the electromotive force layer is filled with an n-type metal oxide semiconductor of fine particles coated by an insulating coat, a new energy level is formed in a band gap by photoexcited structural change caused by ultraviolet irradiation, and efficient and stable operation can be performed by providing a layer of an n-type metal oxide semiconductor between the first electrode and the electromotive force layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Akira NAKAZAWA
  • Publication number: 20130276879
    Abstract: The invention provides an oxide sintered compact 2 composed of a crystal phase which consists of a bixbite-type oxide phase and a perovskite-type oxide phase, or a bixbite-type oxide phase, the crystal phase having indium, tin, strontium and oxygen as the constituent elements, and the indium, the tin and the strontium contents satisfying formulas (1) and (2) in terms of atomic ratio, as well as a sputtering target. There are further provided an oxide transparent conductive film formed using the sputtering target, and a solar cell. Sn/(In+Sn+Sr)=0.01-0.11??(1) Sr/(In+Sn+Sr)=0.0005-0.004??(2) [In formulas (1) and (2), In, Sn and Sr represent indium, tin and strontium contents (atomic percent), respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: TOSOH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hideto Kuramochi, Keitaro Matsumaru, Ryo Akiike, Kentaro Utsumi, Tetsuo Shibutami
  • Publication number: 20130276880
    Abstract: Transparent layer composite assemblies are provided that are suitable for use in solar modules and light emitting diodes, as well as methods for producing such layer composite assemblies and to the uses thereof. The layer composite assemblies have substrate materials that make it possible to increase the luminous efficiency of light emitting diodes and the efficiency of solar modules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: SCHOTT AG
    Inventors: Silke Wolff, Ute Wolfel, Simone Ritter, Peter Brix
  • Publication number: 20130276881
    Abstract: A process of forming a front-grid electrode on a silicon wafer having an ARC layer, comprising the steps: (1) printing and drying a metal paste A comprising an inorganic content comprising 0.5 to 8 wt.-% of glass frit and having fire-through capability, wherein the metal paste A is printed on the ARC layer to form a bottom set of thin parallel finger lines, (2) printing and drying a metal paste B comprising an inorganic content comprising 0.2 to 3 wt.-% of glass frit over the bottom set of finger lines, wherein the metal paste B is printed in a grid pattern which comprises (i) thin parallel finger lines forming a top set of finger lines superimposing the bottom set of finger lines and (ii) busbars intersecting the finger lines at right angle, and (3) firing the double-printed silicon wafer, wherein the inorganic content of metal paste B contains less glass frit plus optionally present other inorganic additives than the inorganic content of metal paste A.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: RUSSELL DAVID ANDERSON, Kenneth Warren Hang, Shih-Ming Kao, Giovanna Laudisio, Cheng-Nan Lin, Chun-Kwei Wu
  • Publication number: 20130276882
    Abstract: A method for forming a solar cell and a solar cell having a top electrode with a finger pattern. The finger pattern is formed of a structure of aligned particles that is formed by applying a thin film comprising a fluid matrix with conductive particles on to the solar cell surface, aligning the conductive particles into electrically conductive wires by applying an electric field over the thin film and curing the matrix.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: CONDALIGN AS
    Inventors: Mark Buchanan, Matti Knaapila, Sean Erik Foss, Geir Helgesen
  • Publication number: 20130276883
    Abstract: A rotatable assembly for supporting a fixture from a structure may be provided. The rotatable assembly may comprise a mounting bracket and a support arm rotatably attached to the mounting bracket. The support arm may have a connection point for receiving the fixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: PETRA SOLAR, INC.
    Inventors: Hakim F. Belaidi, Joseph R. Deluca, Ronald A. Decker, Anthony L. Russo, Kenneth W. Fasanella, Bruce Modick
  • Publication number: 20130276884
    Abstract: A silicone composition for photovoltaic encapsulation is prepared by blending (A) an organopolysiloxane containing at least two silicon-bonded alkenyl groups per molecule, (B) an organohydrogenpolysiloxane containing at least two silicon-bonded hydrogen atoms per molecule, and (C) an addition reaction catalyst such that the composition when cured may have a water vapor permeability of 80-160 g/m2·day at 40° C. and a thickness of 1 mm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: SHIN-ETSU CHEMICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroto Ohwada, Tomoyoshi Furihata, Atsuo Ito, Hyung-Bae Kim, Naoki Yamakawa, Atsushi Yaginuma
  • Publication number: 20130276885
    Abstract: Separation layers, usable in devices for converting radiation energy to electrical energy, allow at least some of the components of the devices to be separated from one another for disposal thereof. A separation layer may be interposed between and bonded to adjoining layers, and when acted upon by application of an external source, may be degraded to release the layers from one another. Once released, the layers may be disposed of more efficiently and economically, including proper disposal of hazardous waste, and recycling of materials which may be re-usable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: EMPIRE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT LLC
    Inventors: Sung-Wei Chen, Christopher J. Rothfuss
  • Publication number: 20130276886
    Abstract: A functionalized conjugated polymer comprising alternating copolymer donor and acceptor units in which at least one of the donor and acceptor units comprises a linking group and a functional group attached to the linking group. The linking group may comprise an alkyl group. The functional group may comprise one or more carboxyl, halogen (such as fluorine and chlorine), hydroxyl, carbonate, imino, cyano, nitro, amine, and amide functional groups. More than one functional group may be present for each linking group. Not every copolymer unit need have a linked functional group. The linking group may be attached to either or both of the donor and acceptor units. The functional group may terminate the linking group.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: The Governors of the University of Alberta
    Inventors: Brian J. Worfolk, Weiwei Li, Kenneth Harris, Jillian Buriak
  • Publication number: 20130276887
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to functionalized semiconducting polymers (FSPs) having the following general formula (I): wherein PB is a semiconducting polymer backbone, L is an alkyl, alkenyi or alkoxy chain and CTG is a cationic terminal group. The FSPs may be used as interfacial modifiers in organic electronics, and more specifically organic photovoltaic devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Brian Worfolk, Jillian Buriak, David Rider, Kenneth Harris
  • Publication number: 20130276888
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a method includes depositing a photoactive layer onto a first substrate, depositing a contact layer onto the photoactive layer, attaching a second substrate onto the contact layer, and removing the first substrate from the photoactive layer, contact layer, and second substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: AQT SOLAR, INC.
    Inventors: Mariana Rodica Munteanu, Amith Kumar Murali, Kirk Hayes, Brian Josef Bartholomeusz
  • Publication number: 20130276889
    Abstract: A pump assembly includes a rotating component and a stationary component coupled to the rotating component such that the stationary component substantially circumscribes at least a portion of the rotating component. A high pressure outlet extends at least partially through the rotating and stationary components. An inlet is positioned a predefined distance from the high pressure outlet. The inlet extends at least partially through the rotating and stationary components. A solid fuel flow is channeled from the inlet to the outlet as the rotating component rotates. A flow control member is coupled to the rotating and stationary components in a first predefined position. The flow control member is selectively moveable from the first predefined position to a second predefined position to form a seal within the pump assembly such that the solid fuel flow and a fluid flow are substantially restricted from being channeled back into the inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Derek Leslie Aldred, Jeffrey Allen Rader
  • Publication number: 20130276890
    Abstract: A device and method of laminar flow patterning of at least one sample fluid in a main channel in a microfluidic device are provided. A first input channel is provided in the microfluidic device. The first input channel has an output end communicating with the first end of the main channel and an input end communicating with a first input port. A buffer fluid is deposited in the main channel and the first input channel and a first sample fluid is deposited in the first input port. A first pressure is generated in response to the depositing of the first sample fluid in the first input port so as to cause laminar flow of the first sample fluid in the main channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: David J. Beebe, Jay Warrick, Erwin Barthler
  • Publication number: 20130276891
    Abstract: An air flow accelerator for creating an air current. The air flow accelerator comprises an air inlet, an air outlet, an impeller, and a motor for rotating the impeller to create an air flow passing from the air inlet to the air outlet. The air outlet comprises a first elongate plenum having an interior passage for receiving the air flow, and a second elongate plenum connected to the first elongate plenum by a common wall between the first elongate plenum and the second elongate plenum. The common wall has a plurality of apertures therein. The second elongate plenum comprises a plurality of chambers such that one or more of the apertures connects to each of the chambers. The second elongate plenum further comprises a narrow slot for emitting the air flow. The air flow emitting from the slot forms a jet inducing a flow of air from outside the air flow accelerator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher F D. Watts, Alexandra C. Davies
  • Publication number: 20130276892
    Abstract: A butterfly valve includes a duct defining a flow pathway and a valve disc rotably disposed in the flow pathway. A pneumatic actuator includes an intermediate chamber housing an actuator piston and is operably connected to the valve disc to drive rotation of the valve disc. A downstream bleed conduit extends from the flow pathway downstream of the valve disc to the intermediate chamber to pressurize the intermediate chamber thereby reducing a rate of movement of the valve disc in the flow pathway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Josh Kamp, Jay Stradinger, Bruce R. Schroder, Peter J. Dowd
  • Publication number: 20130276893
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus for providing an electromagnetic flow controller. In one embodiment, an electromagnetic flow controller can have two substrates, a permanent magnet, and two electrical traces. One of the substrates may deflect away from the other substrate upon applying an electrical signal to at least one of the two electrical traces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Wei Chen, Kevin McMahan, Shiva Srinivasan
  • Publication number: 20130276894
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided. The apparatus comprises a housing, a body defining a first chamber and an elongate actuator member mounted for reciprocal movement, at least a part of the actuator member being enclosed by the housing. The apparatus further comprises a seal compartment between the first chamber and a compartment of the housing, the actuator member extending from the housing to the first chamber through the seal compartment. The seal compartment comprises a fluid filled seal chamber enclosing at least a portion of the actuator member and located within the housing, wherein a volume comprising a volume between the fluid filled seal chamber and the actuator member remains substantially constant during movement of the actuator member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventor: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
  • Publication number: 20130276895
    Abstract: A layer multiplication device may include a housing and at least one layer multiplication insert positioned inside the housing. The housing may have an inlet configured to receive a flow stream, an outlet configured to discharge the flow stream, and a flow cavity extending between the inlet and the outlet. In operation, the layer multiplication insert may divide an incoming flow stream so as to multiply the flow stream into at least a first flow stream and a second flow stream. In some examples, the inlet provides an inlet flow volume equal to a cross-sectional area of the housing at the inlet multiplied by a length of the flow cavity, the flow cavity defines a cavity flow volume, and the cavity flow volume is equal to or greater than the inlet flow volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: NORDSON EXTRUSION DIES INDUSTRIES, LLC
    Inventors: Gary D. Oliver, Dale P. Pitsch, Michael K. Truscott
  • Publication number: 20130276896
    Abstract: An embodiment of a micro-electro-mechanical system of the MEMS type comprising at least one micro-electro-mechanical device of the MEMS type and one junction with a duct suitable to being associated with an external apparatus. Said junction being a printed circuit board PCB comprising at least two layers with juxtaposed faces, a channel being present in at least one face of at least one of said at least two layers suitable for realizing the duct with the juxtaposition of the other face of at least another one of at least two layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Fulvio Vittorio FONTANA
  • Publication number: 20130276897
    Abstract: A method for regulating an actuator or valve, wherein to execute a regulating function of the actuator or a valve function of the valve an actuating pulse is used, which is fed to the actuator or valve, characterized in that between at least two consecutive actuating pulses at least one additional pulse or a stochastic signal is fed to the actuator or valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Carsten Mohr
  • Publication number: 20130276898
    Abstract: A method and a device for supply of a dialyser in a dialysis unit with dialysis fluid is disclosed. At least one dialysis fluid concentrate is mixed with water to produce the dialysis fluid. The dialysis fluid concentrate is prepared in a reservoir unit in a given amount. A control and arithmetic unit calculates the dialysis fluid rate (Qd) such that, after a given treatment time (TB) has passed, a given residual amount of dialysis fluid concentrate or no residual amount remains in the reservoir unit. It is preferable to empty the reservoir unit by the end of treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Gerard Remkes, Gerhard Wiesen