Abstract: According to FIG. 6, it consists of a solar tracking device with two axes of rotation, which is actuated only in one of them by virtue of the incorporation into the mechanism of a support bar of adjustable length (8), which is articulated at its two ends and anchored via one side to the body that tracks the sun (4) and via the other side to an adjustable support (5) joined to the base of the actual tracker or to the ground. In turn, the bar is equipped with a shock-absorbing spring system (10) that allows it to be operated as a dynamic control element for the whole assembly.

Abstract: A solar tracker system and method for making are disclosed. The system may comprise a solar panel array assembly having at least two attachments, a support anchor assembly for attaching to a surface and having at least two attachments, and a support structure including a plurality of elongated support rods for securing the array assembly above the support anchor assembly. Each support rod may be attached at one end to one of the attachments of the solar panel array and attached at the other end to one of the attachments of the support anchor assembly.

Abstract: A solar tracking device for overcoming the disadvantages of a conventional solar energy system utilizing motors and to lower electricity consumption and decrease cost is provided. The device includes a solar module or solar collector supported by two springs under both ends and two water tanks on both ends. The solar module or solar collector, similar to a heliostat, is adapted to slowly revolve in response to the imbalanced water tanks filled with different amount of water.

Abstract: Heliostat operation under significantly reduced infrastructure requirements is disclosed. As part of a larger solar power generation system, a heliostat may function autonomously to track the sun and maintain constant reflection of solar radiation to a collection device for conversion to electrical power. The heliostat employs a local independent solar power supply to provide power to the positioning mechanism and controller for the heliostat. The controller receives sun position information from a sensor and/or a predetermined schedule. In addition, the controller for the heliostat may incorporate a wireless communications device for remote monitoring and directing operations of the heliostat.

Abstract: An inflatable solar energy collector. The device uses two elongated and pressure-stabilized air chambers with a trough-shaped reflecting surface in between. The curvature of the reflecting surface is adjusted by adjusting the differential pressure between the two air chambers. The device can be configured to provide a focal point outside the air chambers or inside the air chambers. For the version using the external focal point an external energy receiver is appropriately positioned. For the version using the internal focal point, the receiver is mounted inside one of the air chambers.

Abstract: A curved surface structure for reflecting solar light, heat or electromagnetic radiation is made by scoring two opposing pairs of curved bend lines along one pair of opposing edges of a sheet of bendable material, dividing it into a center section joined by curved bend lines to curved ribs, joined by curved bend lines to respective curved edges; bending the curved ribs down and curved edges up along the bend lines to nominally right angles to form a curved surface supported by two curved ribs and two curved edges. Two straight ribs and respective straight edges may be scored and formed on the other pair of opposing edges of the sheet. A backside sheet may be applied to the four edges. A widthwise corrugated, elongate right angle reinforcement member may be employed for strengthening the formed bend lines.

Abstract: A solar-powered system and method for producing a utility, such as electricity, hot water, and/or potable water is disclosed. The system may be configured to produce the utilities alone or in combination. The system may comprise a fluid medium, a converter, one or more solar concentrators, a storage tank, a collection tank, a dehydration tank, and one or more safety features. The system may be closed-loop or open-loop.

Abstract: A solar energy collection system includes a primary solar receiver and a secondary solar receiver. The secondary solar receiver generates steam using energy from solar radiation incident thereon. The primary solar receiver receives the generated steam from the secondary solar receiver and superheats the steam using energy from solar radiation incident thereon. A plurality of heliostat-mounted mirrors reflects incident solar radiation onto one of the primary and secondary solar receivers. A controller aims a portion of the heliostat-mounted mirrors at the primary solar receiver such that a predetermined thermal profile is provided on a surface of the primary solar receiver.

Abstract: Rectangular photovoltaic (PV) modules are mounted on a building roof by mounting stands that are distributed in rows and columns. Each stand comprises a base plate and first and second different height brackets attached to opposite ends of the base plate. Each first and second bracket comprises two module-support members. One end of each module is pivotally attached to and supported by a first module-support member of a first bracket and a second module-support member of another first bracket. At its other end each module rests on but is connected by flexible tethers to module-support members of two different second brackets. The tethers are sized to allow the modules to pivot up away from the module-support members on which they rest to a substantially horizontal position in response to wind uplift forces.

Abstract: A high-efficiency, small-scale, combined heat and power, concentrating solar energy system (200), designed specifically for residential and other relatively low-power applications, rendering it cost-effective and economically viable. Two-axis tracking of a dish-like reflector (10) of between 1 and 2 meters in aperture ensures very high concentrating ratios of between 200 and 8-suns or even higher. In consequence very high coolant outlet temperatures, of 120-180° C. may be reached at the outlet of the collector coolant, which may be oil, gas, or pressurized water. The high coolant temperatures are advantageous because they may be used for air-conditioning. The high concentration is advantageous because the efficiency of the photo_voltaic cells is improved with higher concentration. The overall efficiency is greater than 60%.

Abstract: This invention deals with novel method and apparatus for positioning and motion control of the elements (mirrors) of a Fresnel reflector solar concentrator tracking heliostat array wherein the elements are suspended with the center of mass below the swivel point, or have an internal-swivel. This achieves an advantageous natural vertical stability. The torque to produce angular deflection, and rotational motion is provided separately by an electric wind force due to electrons, ions, and/or neutrals; or in combination with an induced and/or permanent dipole coupling to an electronic grid. Thus forces and torques are produced without the use of internal moving parts such as in motors. The instant invention exceeds the capability of conventional systems. It is ideally suited for maximization of solar energy focused by a low-profile concentrator array onto a receiver. Since there are no internal moving parts, the instant invention provides less costly and greater ease of manufacture.

Abstract: The invention is a wind resistant celestial tracking apparatus that uses gravitational forces acting on the moving elements of the structure to provide overturning resistance. A molded self curing compound, such as reinforced concrete, is used as the structural material that provides the mass, and thus the gravitational overturning resistance that reduces or eliminates the need for a massive ballasted or dug-in foundation. The combination of these features potentially lowers cost significantly over that of tracking apparatuses found in prior art. The invention is appropriate for use in any celestial tracking application with any number of axes of motion, but is particularly useful in two axis solar energy collection systems.

Abstract: A modular shade system with solar tracking panels includes a series of generally North-South oriented, spaced apart torque tubes, each torque tube having an axis, a series of panels mounted to at least some of the torque tubes to create spaced-apart rows of panels along the torque tubes, at least some of the panels being solar collector panels. The system also includes a shade structure, positioned at a selected location between selected ones of the torque tubes and above the support surface so to provide an enhanced shaded region thereunder, and a support structure. The support structure includes a first mounting assembly mounting each torque tube above the support surface for rotation about the axis of each torque tube and a second mounting assembly supporting the shade structure at the selected location. The system further comprises a tilting assembly selectively rotating each torque tube about its axis.

Abstract: A tracking solar collector assembly includes Southside supports, North side supports and support structures. Each support structure has pivotal support points defining a tilt axis and supports at least one solar collector. First support points of first and second support structures are pivotally connected to first and second Southside supports. A second support point of the first support structure is pivotally connected to first and second North side supports. A second support point of the second support structure is pivotally connected to second and third North side supports. A tilting assembly causes the solar collector support structures and the solar collectors tilt in unison. A tracking solar collector may comprise a torsion tube rotatable about a torsion tube axis; with the solar panels secured to the torsion tube at an angle with the solar panels located entirely above the torsion tube at noontime.

Abstract: A solar tracking system and method are provided.

Abstract: This invention deals with novel method and apparatus for positioning and motion control of the elements (mirrors) of a Fresnel reflector solar concentrator tracking heliostat array wherein the elements are suspended with the center of mass below the swivel point, or have an internal-swivel. This achieves an advantageous natural vertical stability. The torque to produce angular deflection, and rotational motion is provided separately by an electric wind force due to electrons, ions, and/or neutrals; or in combination with an induced and/or permanent dipole coupling to an electronic grid. Thus forces and torques are produced without the use of internal moving parts such as in motors. The instant invention exceeds the capability of conventional systems. It is ideally suited for maximization of solar energy focused by a low-profile concentrator array onto a receiver. Since there are no internal moving parts, the instant invention provides less costly and greater ease of manufacture.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a mirror for a dish reflector of a system for generating electrical power from solar radiation is disclosed. The method includes the steps of: (a) shaping a blank of a deformable material to have a concave surface that is a required surface profile for a mirror; and (b) glueing, laminating or otherwise adhering together a back surface of a sheet of reflective glass and the concave surface of the shaped blank to form the mirror.

Abstract: A solar-panel unit is provided with: an attachment structure; at least one solar panel, which is delimited by an extensive plane surface of incidence of the solar radiation and is connected to the attachment structure; and a hinging assembly, set between the attachment structure and the solar panel, to enable rotation of the solar panel with respect to the attachment structure about an inclined hinge axis forming an angle smaller than 90° with a horizontal plane.

Abstract: A solar energy devices comprises a plurality of half cylinder troughs along a slanted roof of a static structure. The sun light entering the trough is reflected onto a secondary collector situated at a focus line of the primary collector. Light is directed onto a boiler tube contain a fluid to be used in an appropriate thermal cycle. Solar panels may be provided on surfaces along the secondary collector to power portions of the system. Braces can be provided to support the secondary collector over the primary collector.

Abstract: A solar collection apparatus includes a housing with a first opening, a second opening, and a partially-mirrored floor. The device includes fins with first and second end segments and curved bodies. Both sides of the fin bodies have the same curvature, and both sides are mirrored. The curved bodies of the fins all have the same curvature. The floor and the second end segments of the fins together define a light pipe. Light impinging on the first opening of the housing is directed into the light pipe by reflection between adjacent faces of adjacent fins. The second end segments of the fins prevent the light within the light pipe from exiting the light pipe in the first direction. Light within the light pipe exits the light pipe at the second opening, where it may be stored, or may be directed to a solar energy device such as a solar cell, turbine, or vehicle heater.

Abstract: A novel latch for pivoted optical elements of a solar concentrator and other equipment latches them in position between orientation operations. The mirrors may be on a universal pivot that can rotate or tilt in any direction; or on gimbal pivots. The orientation power can be turned off between alignments with the mirrors remaining in alignment orientation during this off-power period. Turning off the alignment power between alignments, saves on both energy resources and on expensive apparatus. It permits a great reduction in power supply as the optical elements can be aligned sequentially. This not only reduces operating costs, but also capital investment because smaller power supplies can suffice. A preferred embodiment utilizes the freezing of a liquid material. Since this involves no moving parts for latching, the instant invention is ideally adapted for fabrication from the nano- to the mini-realm.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for improved efficiency in the collection of solar energy, in which an energy conversion device is provided that includes a first zone for converting received solar energy into thermal energy, the first zone having a Fresnel lens, and a heat absorption layer with heat collectors embedded therein. The energy conversion device also includes a second zone positioned at a lower level of first energy zone for converting received solar energy into electrical energy utilizing a photovoltaic cell.

Abstract: A suntracking system for a central receiver solar power plant includes a heliostat field for reflecting sunlight to a receiver, cameras directed toward at least a subset of the heliostats, and a controller. The cameras are configured to produce images of sunlight reflected from multiple heliostats. The heliostats include a mirrored surface having a settable orientation and have a geometry modeled by a set of parameters. A method of estimating heliostat parameters for open-loop suntracking includes acquiring pointing samples by setting the direction of reflection of the heliostats and detecting concurrent sunlight reflections into the cameras. The method uses the acquired pointing samples and surveyed locations of the cameras to estimate the heliostat parameters. The method accurately maintains the sun's reflection directed toward the receiver open-loop utilizing the estimated tracking parameters.

Abstract: A first coolant tank is arranged on first side of a solar energy collecting panel, a second coolant tank is arranged on second side of the solar energy collecting panel. A first wall is arranged beside the first coolant tank, a second wall is arranged beside the second coolant tank. When the sun shifts, one of the coolant tanks is covered partially by one of the walls and hence receives less heat than the other. The pressure difference between the two coolant tanks is used to adjust the solar energy collecting panel so that the panel tracks the sun to receive maximum heat.

Abstract: This invention deals with novel method and apparatus for positioning and motion control of the elements (mirrors) of a Fresnel reflector solar concentrator tracking heliostat array by rapid-response motorless linear motion, angular deflection, and rotational motion utilizing electric wind force due to electrons, ions, and/or neutrals. Thus forces and torques are produced without the use of internal moving parts. Control is achieved without recourse to magnetic fields, by means of high electric fields which may be attained at relatively low voltages. At low voltages, the instant invention exceeds the capability of conventional systems. It can perform dynamic motion control over a wide range of dimensions and signal bandwidth with independent amplitude and frequency modulation. It is ideally suited for maximization of solar energy focused by the array onto a receiver. Since there are no internal moving parts, the instant invention is the most adapted for fabrication at the micro and nanotechnology realms.

Abstract: A solar panel(s) positioning apparatus for controlling the orientation of a solar panel(s) having one edge pivotally mounted to a support surface including a lift bar attached to an opposite edge of the panel(s) and having a mast, a base supported on the support surface, a swing link connected between the base and the mast and an extensible link pivotally connected between an intermediate point on the base end of the mast. A modification of the structure includes positioning apparatus for alternate bidirectional tilting of one or more panels about axes along aligned opposite side edges thereof.

Abstract: The most urgent need in the field of solar energy is to lower the final cost per watt of all involved components. Some of the most expensive components within a solar tracker go into the precision drive system which accurately follows the motion of the sun. This invention reduces the complexity and the required number of drive components in a tracker optimized for reflective dishes. With this invention a single drive motor can keep 20 or more large reflective dishes accurately tracking the sun, whereas 40 drive motors with more complex control systems would typically be required for the same number of dishes. In addition this invention allows for complete inversion of the dishes, which helps reduce dust accumulation on the optical surfaces and lowers wind resistance during storms.

Abstract: Described herein are solar energy collector systems, components for solar energy collector systems, and methods for installing solar energy collector systems. The components for solar energy collector systems include but are not limited to solar radiation absorbers, receivers, drives, drive systems, reflectors, and various support structures. The solar energy collection systems, solar radiation absorbers, receivers, drives, drive systems, reflectors, support structures, and/or methods may be used, for example, in LFR solar arrays. Improved solar radiation absorbers, receivers and related methods are described here.

Abstract: A system architecture for large concentrated solar power applications that increases heliostat utilization efficiency and land utilization efficiency is described. Embodiments of the invention include a large heliostat field in which are distributed a number of receiving locations, and wherein there is the assignment of heliostats to receiving locations is dynamic. Embodiments of the invention include dynamically targeting heliostats to receiving locations wherein the target determination process is performed frequently during operation and wherein such dynamic targeting can be utilized to various ends. Embodiments of the invention include configurations wherein cosine losses associated with heliostat pointing are significantly reduced, wherein heliostats may be closely packed without incurring substantial shadowing and blocking losses thereby significantly increasing land utilization, and wherein other benefits are realized.

Abstract: A tracking solar assembly includes a base, a first support and a second support. A solar panel is mountable the base. The first support may comprise a first curved, rolling surface fixed relative to the base. The first and second supports are engageable with the support surface. The first curved surface can be rolled along the support surface to move the base between first and second orientations. The base and any solar panel may have sufficient weight to be inherently stable and resist wind loads without being secured to the support surface. The invention may comprise means for biasing the base to a chosen orientation at or between the first orientation and the second orientation. The upper surface of the base may have open regions extending into the base with solar panels mounted within the open regions with the open regions acting as solar concentrators for the solar panels.

Abstract: The invention concerns a concentrating collector comprising a cover (1) transparent to the sun's rays, a cylindro-parabolic reflector (2), a coolant element (3) and a transformer (5) for reducing losses of energy by emissivity, said transformer (5) not being contacted with said coolant element (3).

Abstract: The elevation of a solar panel to follow the course of the sun is achieved in a manner to require relatively little power. The elevation mechanism utilizes a system of wires and pulleys which cooperate with springs which are compressed when the panel is in the collapsed position. The springs operate to overcome inertia when panel elevation first commences. The wire and pulley system operates to extend in opposite directions a pair of arms, one connected to the panel base member, the other connected to the top of the panel pivoting member.

Abstract: The invention is a solar powered heat exchanger (10) comprising a solar collector (12), a heat accumulator (14), and a heat exchanger (16). The solar collector is operatively coupled to the heat accumulator (14) via a supply line (18) and a recirculation line (20). The heat accumulator (14) is in turn operatively coupled to the heat exchanger (16) via a feed line (22) and a return line (24).

Abstract: A SOLAR TRACKER FOR THERMAL AND PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS WITH A FORCED AIR SYSTEM, APPLICABLE TO BUILDINGS, with a panel-carrying framework on a dome, whose interior features a heat accumulator, acting as a column; attached to the base of this there is a fan and radiator capable of blowing treated air towards the apartments, it being installed over the stairwell, which acts as a carriage duct, also acting as a fire protection system as it creates centrifugal radial flows, expelling harmful gases on opening doors and windows. The framework tilts on two axes of a spider joint located between two yokes, one of these fixed on the column and the other tilting, this last supporting the framework. Four servo-cylinders, two per axis, cause it to be directed towards the sun. The rows of the framework, arranged on different levels, in the shape of a stepped pyramid, support juxtaposed thermal and photovoltaic panels, it being possible to direct those appropriate towards the sun while the others are shaded.

Abstract: A tilt assembly is used with a solar collector assembly of the type comprising a frame, supporting a solar collector, for movement about a tilt axis by pivoting a drive element between first and second orientations. The tilt assembly comprises a drive element coupler connected to the drive element and a driver, the driver comprising a drive frame, a drive arm and a drive arm driver. The drive arm is mounted to the drive frame for pivotal movement about a drive arm axis. Movement on the drive arm mimics movement of the drive element. Drive element couplers can extend in opposite directions from the outer portion of the drive arm, whereby the assembly can be used between adjacent solar collector assemblies in a row of solar collector assemblies.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a solar energy system (1) comprising a multiplicity of oblong-formed modular units (2) having, in each case, at least one solar module (3), wherein the individual modular units can track the course of the sun. The present invention further relates to a solar modular unit (2). The present invention further relates to a method for arrangement of solar modular units (2).

Abstract: A system for concentrating solar energy is provided. The solar concentrating system uses a membrane formed of a flexible material to form either a reflective or refractive surface of a predefined shape. A quantity of fluid disposed on the membrane deforms the membrane into the predefined shape. In one embodiment the fluid is a liquid and the deformation of the membrane is determined by the mass of fluid and the effect of gravity. In another embodiment, the fluid is a gas and the deformation of the membrane is determined by the pressure of the gas contained in a cavity formed by the membrane on the bottom and a transparent layer forming the top surface of the cavity.

Abstract: Embodiments in accordance with the present invention relate to the design of inexpensive mounting and pointing apparatuses for linear arrays of solar energy collectors and converters. Particular embodiments in accordance with the present invention disclose a rigging system comprising at least one, and preferably a plurality of, tensile cables onto which a plurality of solar modules are fastened. Such an arrangement provides a way of suspending solar modules over land, vegetation, bodies of water, and other geographic features without substantial perturbation of the underlying terrain. Certain embodiments comprise additional tensile cables fastened to the solar modules, such that differential axial motion of the cables produces a rotational motion component of the individual solar modules of the array. This rotational motion component effects an orientation control along one rotational axis.

Abstract: This invention concerns solar energy collection systems, especially systems that concentrate direct sunlight and then collect the radiant energy. This invention is of particular use for providing heat and power for buildings and industrial processes. A solar energy collection system comprising: a solar energy receiver; and a solar energy directing system to direct sunlight onto said solar energy receiver; wherein said solar energy directing system comprises a set of mirrors, each mirror having a moveable axis and comprising a plurality of facets, and wherein the facets of each mirror are configured to direct incoming sunlight to focus substantially at said receiver when said mirror axes are directed towards said receiver.

Abstract: The basic idea of this invention is to use many small solar energy transfer units like solar cells, each of them is of the same size and installed on the surface of a spherical structure and toward a certain direction in a 3-D space, the position of each unit is saved in a database, by using a comparison unit to compare the output of these solar energy transfer units, the optimized sun direction can be determined; a compass maybe used to install the said sun tracker in a fixed place.

Abstract: A solar concentrator includes a mirror 24 having a frame 27 connected with a lever 55, a train 36 supporting the frame 27 and the lever 55, a first control cable 28 connected with the frame 27, and a second control cable 30 connected with the lever 55. A first locomotive 35 moves the train along a curvilinear path to keep the mirror 24 opposite the sun. The first control cable 28 controls pitch of the mirror 24 and the second control cable 30 controls yaw of the mirror 24. When a concentrator includes a plurality of mirrors 24 they are preferably controlled collectively by pulling all of the first control cables 28 with one motor to control pitch and by pulling all of the second control cables 30 with one motor to control yaw. Sunlight focused on the receiver 20 preferably boils water to form steam that is transmitted to a turbine connected to a generator for producing electricity.

Abstract: This invention is a trough solar collector that uses inexpensive aluminized plastic films as the reflecting surface. The films are held in proper shape by stretching them between rigid ribs that are spaced apart along the length of the collector. The structure of the trough is held rigid by a unique sun-tracking system that not only guides a whole of array of troughs on a field to point them toward the sun, but also maintains the whole length of each trough in rigid configuration. It is not necessary to extend rigid metal beams along the trough to maintain the rigidity of the trough. Small-diameter cables are wrapped around rotatable pipes that extend along the east and west sides of the field. The cables extend over the field of the troughs and are attached to connecting points above the troughs in such a way that when the rotatable pipes rotate, the cables move, the troughs move with them, and the cables provide the rigidity of the troughs.

Abstract: A structure (26) for supporting an array (22) of solar panels (24) in a solar energy collection system (20) includes a support assembly (42) formed from a rigid subassembly (44). The subassembly (44) includes an elongated truss (68), a base (46) coupled to the truss (68) for attachment to a footing (48), and posts (50) extending from a top edge of the truss (68). The structure (26) further includes torsion tubes (34), each of which is pivotally retained by one of the posts (50) to form parallel rows (32) of torsion tubes (34). A number of rigid subassemblies (44) can be interconnected to further increase the number of rows (32) of the system (20). The solar panels (24) are attached to the torsion tubes (34) to form the array (22), and a drive mechanism (38) pivots the torsion tubes (34) via a single elongated actuator and multiple torque arms (90).

Abstract: A solar tracking apparatus which is movable from a morning position to an evening position, the apparatus comprising a support means to which a solar device can be supported, a cylinder, the cylinder including a ram which is extendable from and retractable into the cylinder, an expansion chamber which forms part of or which is in fluid connection with the cylinder, a liquid in the cylinder and the expansion chamber, the liquid having a boiling point which is greater than the maximum operating temperature of the cylinder and the expansion chamber, a return means to cause the apparatus to be returned to the morning position, and rotation means associated with the ram to rotate the apparatus from the morning position to the evening position upon extension of the ram.

Abstract: A light element with a translucent surface includes an energy converter, wherein the translucent surface is so formed as to direct only that portion of the radiation onto the energy converter that impinges on the translucent surface. The energy converter may be a solar cell, a fluid line or a light guide. The light element is particularly suited for illuminating interior spaces with diffuse light.

Abstract: An instrument for a solar energy system including a receiver and a heliostat to reflect solar energy on to the receiver. The instrument includes a first element adapted to form an image of the sun, a second element adapted to form an image of the receiver, and a detector. The detector is positioned to receive each of the images and a comparator is adapted to detect a distance between the images. The comparator generates an error correction signal based on the distance between the images. The error correction signal is received by a controller that controls the operation of a postioner that adjusts the position of the heliostat accordingly.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for collecting solar energy are provided. The apparatus is a trough-type solar collector having one or more mirrors and lenses for directing solar radiation toward a receiver configured to receive a heat transfer fluid therein. The amount of solar radiation directed toward the receiver can be controlled by adjusting one or more of the mirrors and/or lenses or by adjusting a shade. Thus, the collector can direct different amounts or solar radiation toward the receiver, thereby selectively heating the receiver at different rates, e.g., to preheat the receiver, to heat fluid in the receiver for power generation, or to thaw solidified fluid in the receiver. Subsequently, the heated fluid can be used to generate steam and/or electricity.

Abstract: An traffic light capable of utilizing both natural sunlight and artificial light for illuminating selective traffic signals. Natural light is directed to a natural light router or switch and to a color switch for providing a red, amber or yellow, and a green light for each bank of traffic light signals. A controller is coupled to the natural light router and light emitting diodes for controlling the mode of operation for operating the traffic light with either electrically powered light emitting diodes or with natural light collected by the natural light collector. A sensor detects the adequacy of the natural light, and when insufficient, causes the controller to power an LED signal light. The natural light may either be amplitude modulated or time modulated so as to provide a desired high illumination output to the desired signal light. The power consumption is greatly reduced, as well as providing a more reliable traffic light substantially independent of power line interruptions or fluctuations.

Abstract: A nonrotating adjustable solar panel for optimizing cell charging of a portable message sign, comprising a movable frame, a message sign, a solar panel, a support post attached to the underside of the solar panel by a universal joint, and a mechanism for adjusting the angle and position of the solar panel comprising a pair of outwardly extending arms, a pair of threaded support rods, each rod extending through an aperture in the arm, and a handle for turning the rod. Each rod is coupled to the underside of the solar panel by a ball or universal joint. As each rod is turned, it raises or lowers a portion of the solar panel, providing tilting and pivoting, but not rotating motion for adjustment of the solar panel angle.

Abstract: The present invention includes a radiation collector configured to collect incident radiation. The radiation collector includes a radiation directing component configured to redirect the incident radiation, a buffer component configured to receive the radiation redirected by the radiation directing component, and a propagation component configured to receive the radiation from the buffer component and to propagate the radiation towards a first end of the propagation component.