Gearing Patents (Class 126/606)
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Patent number: 11967921Abstract: A solar tracker apparatus includes an adjustable hanger assembly that has a clam shell hanger assembly. The clam shell hanger assembly may hold a torque tube comprising a plurality of torque tubes configured together in a continuous length from a first end to a second end. A center of mass of the solar tracker apparatus may be aligned with a center of rotation of the torque tubes, in order to reduce a load of a drive device operably coupled to the torque tube. Solar modules may be coupled to the torque tubes. The solar tracker includes an energy system that includes solar panel, a DC to DC converter, a battery, and a micro-controller. The energy system may facilitate full operation movement of the tracker apparatus without any external power lines.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2022Date of Patent: April 23, 2024Assignee: NEXTRACKER LLCInventors: Yang Liu, Alexander W. Au
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Patent number: 11955924Abstract: A solar tracking mounting system is provided. The tracking system has an anchor comprising a pile and a riser bracket fastened to the top thereof, wherein the riser bracket is configured to provide adjustable mounting points, a chord assembly coupled to with the riser brackets, wherein the chord assembly is configured to pivotability tilt, a kicker connected to the anchor assembly, wherein the kicker is configured to connect the chord assembly to the pile, a vertical actuator connected to the kicker and the chord assembly, wherein the vertical actuator is a rack and pinion linear actuator configured to amplify a torque received from a motor and pivotably tilt to the chord assembly to a desired angle while tracking a direction of a light source, and a driveshaft connected to the motor and the vertical actuator. A jack screw may also be provided therein for actuation.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2021Date of Patent: April 9, 2024Assignee: KLOECKNER METALS CORPORATIONInventors: Jeremy Jacobs, Mark Schroeder, Michael Fraenkel, Christopher Lee Cruse
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Patent number: 11799416Abstract: A solar tracker assembly is provided which includes a support column, a torque tube or torsion beam connected to the support column, a mounting mechanism attached to the torque tube or torsion beam, a drive system connected to the torque tube or torsion beam, and a spring counter-balance assembly connected to the torque tube or torsion beam. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly comprises a bearing housing and a bushing disposed within the bearing housing and configured to be slideably mounted onto the torque tube or torsion beam, and one or more compressible cords made of a flexible material. The compressible cords are located between the bushing and the bearing housing and provide damping during rotational movement of the solar tracker assembly. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly is provided including at least one top bracket and at least one bottom bracket, at least one spring, a damper, and a bracket.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2022Date of Patent: October 24, 2023Assignee: ARRAY TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventor: Ronald P. Corio
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Patent number: 11689151Abstract: The invention relates to a solar plant (1) having at least one pivotable module table (2a, 2b, 2c) which supports at least one photovoltaic solar module (3), preferably multiple photovoltaic solar modules (3), and is coupled in such a manner to at least one gear element (4) pivotable about an axis (A) that pivoting the gear element (4) causes the module table (2a to 2c) to be pivoted so that the solar modules (3) track the motion of the sun, the gear element (4) being driven and thus pivoted by an electrically driven drive shaft (5), at least one actuation element (8) being integrated in the drive shaft (5), the gear element (4) being both driven and blocked by the actuation element (8), the actuation element (8) engaging into the toothing (11) of the gear element (4) for driving or blocking the gear element (4).Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2019Date of Patent: June 27, 2023Assignee: Ideematec Deutschland GmbHInventors: Johann Kufner, Nathalie Kermelk, Peter Birr, Benjamin Bauer, Ronny Rehm
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Patent number: 11680732Abstract: A solar powered water heating assembly for supplying hot water from an exterior faucet or pipe includes a heating unit and a solar panel. The heating unit is integral to, or can be engaged to, a pipe that is in fluidic communication with water piping of a structure. The pipe extends externally from the structure. The heating unit is positioned to heat water flowing through the pipe. The solar panel converts electromagnetic radiation into an electrical current. The solar panel is operationally engaged to the heating unit and thus is positioned to power the heating unit to heat the water flowing through the pipe.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2020Date of Patent: June 20, 2023Inventor: Bill Thanh Ly
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Patent number: 11683002Abstract: Plant for producing solar energy including a support structure formed from support poles aligned fixed to the ground, a movement system for receiving devices of solar energy positioned on poles arranged in a row, adapted for allowing the movement of the devices about a first axis and a second axis substantially perpendicular to one another, a rotating main tube about the first axis, to which a plurality of secondary tubes is connected, associated with said main tube, the secondary tubes having the receiver devices fixed to them and a movement mechanism for the primary tubes, and a sustaining and movement support arranged on each pole of said row, which has a housing that receives the main tube of the movement system and that allows the rotation thereof about the axis.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2018Date of Patent: June 20, 2023Assignee: REM TEC S.R.L.Inventors: Alessandro Reboldi, Ronald Knoche, Paolo Parma
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Patent number: 11529024Abstract: A portable solar shower is a showering device that can heat the water in a tank to a user defined temperature, with the help of a large solar panel. In order to accomplish that, the device includes a thermostat that displays multiple temperatures, a vacuum insulated water tank that helps maintain the temperature of the water at the user defined temperature level for long hours, and a retractable showerhead and shower pipe. Further, the device is mounted over an upper surface of a vehicle, thereby not compromising any luggage or trunk space of the vehicle. The portable solar shower further includes a power unit that provides power to water pumps and all the necessary circuitry within the device. Furthermore, the device includes an additional smaller solar panel that can provide energy to the power unit, thereby enabling the user to run the shower unit on natural renewable sources of energy.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2021Date of Patent: December 20, 2022Inventors: Phillip Earl Kelly, Christopher Jackson Crawford
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Patent number: 11404998Abstract: The pneumatic solar tracking system for solar panels adjusts the angular orientation of a solar panel to maximize exposure of an upper surface of the solar panel to incident solar radiation from the sun as the sun moves across the sky. The pneumatic solar tracking system includes a base and a platform supported above the base. The platform has an opening formed therein. A plurality of pneumatic actuators are supported on the base beneath the opening formed in the platform. The solar panel is supported on an upper surface of the platform, and a plurality of pivotal connectors pivotally connect the lower surface of the solar panel to respective pistons of the plurality of pneumatic actuators. Each of the pivotal connectors pivots along at least two orthogonal axes. An optical sensor is provided for detecting and tracking the angular position of the sun.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2021Date of Patent: August 2, 2022Assignees: UNITED ARAB EMIRATES UNIVERSITY, AL AIN DISTRIBUTION COMPANYInventors: Hussain Shareef, Tarik Tayseer Shadid
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Patent number: 11300326Abstract: A solar tracker system comprising a plurality of on sun trackers and a plurality of off sun tracker. Each tracker is selectively adjusted to achieve a desired power output of the solar power plant system in an example.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2020Date of Patent: April 12, 2022Assignee: NEXTRACKER INC.Inventors: Yu Dong Ma, Yang Liu, Francesco Borrelli, Allan Daly, Ricardo Delgado-Nanez, Alexander W. Au
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Patent number: 11283393Abstract: A solar panel system comprises a base, the base attached to a building at a geographic location; a rotating crown having a rotating mechanism, the base supporting the crown; a solar panel device attached to the crown, the solar panel device having an exposed surface, the shapes of the base, crown and solar panel device positioning the exposed surface in a sloped orientation relative to a horizontal plane at the geographic location, the rotating mechanism rotating the solar panel device, the base and crown shapes positioning the rotating mechanism to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the horizontal plane and to maintain a consistent slope relative to the horizontal plane as the exposed surface rotates; and a control system controlling rotation from a first azimuthal direction to a second azimuthal direction that faces the exposed surface towards the Sun more normally than the first azimuthal direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2018Date of Patent: March 22, 2022Assignee: KBFX LLCInventor: Alain Poivet
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Patent number: 11165385Abstract: A distributed torque, single axis solar tracking system includes a plurality of spaced apart mounting posts with selected posts having an electrically controlled actuator mounted thereon. A torque structure extends between the actuators to distribute rotational torque on the torque structure. A plurality of solar panels is connected to the torque structure. Electrical apparatus is coupled to each actuator and designed to be coupled to a power source so that when the electrical apparatus is coupled to the power source, the plurality of actuators is energized to rotate simultaneously a desired amount. Whereby the plurality of solar panels is rotated the desired amount as the plurality of actuators rotates.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2020Date of Patent: November 2, 2021Assignee: KINEMATICS, LLCInventors: Mark Henderson, Adam Plesniak, Kyle Zech, Kenneth D Miller
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Patent number: 11139775Abstract: A system is provided. The system includes a tracker configured to collect solar irradiance and attached to a rotational mechanism for changing a plane of the tracker and a controller in communication with the rotational mechanism. The controller is programmed to store a plurality of positional information and a shadow model for determining placement of shadows based on positions of objects relative to the sun, determine a position of the sun at a first specific point in time, retrieve height information for the tracker and at least one adjacent tracker, execute the shadow model based on the retrieved height information and the position of the sun, determine a first angle for the tracker based on the executed shadow model, and transmit instructions to the rotational mechanism to change the plane of the tracker to the first angle.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2020Date of Patent: October 5, 2021Assignee: FTC Solar, Inc.Inventors: Tamilarasan Mouniandy, Andrew Joseph Morse, Karthikraja Kumaresan, Nagendra Srinivas Cherukupalli
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Patent number: 10317108Abstract: The present invention relates to a solar unit assembly adapted for reflecting light onto a receiver, comprising a plurality of solar collector units, a primary support element, a plurality of secondary support elements, and two side support elements. The invention furthermore relates to a method of providing such a solar unit assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2014Date of Patent: June 11, 2019Assignee: Alpha-E ApSInventor: Stig Kejser Nielsen
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Patent number: 10263133Abstract: Described herein is a photovoltaic plant (1; 1?; 1?; 1??) including a plurality of photovoltaic modules (PV) arranged in arrays (2) spaced with respect to each other, and wherein the photovoltaic modules (PV) of each array (2) have a first assigned inclination (?-1) with respect to a reference direction. Each array (2) of photovoltaic modules (PV) is associated to an array (4; 4?; 4??) of mobile reflection devices (RF) set adjacent thereto, and at least one array (4; 4?; 4??) of mobile reflection devices (RF) is located in a space between successive arrays (2) of photovoltaic modules. The mobile reflection devices (RF) of each array have a second assigned inclination (a2) with respect to a reference direction.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2015Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Archimede Research S.R.L.Inventors: Gianluca Tumminelli, Gaetano Tuzzolino, Calogero Gattuso
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Patent number: 10190802Abstract: The solar heating apparatus includes at least one optical element and a drive assembly for selectively moving the at least one optical element along multiple axes of rotation, the drive assembly having an elevation shaft and an azimuth rotation shaft. The solar heating apparatus also includes a support frame positioned in communicating relation with the drive assembly, the support frame being configured for supporting the at least one optical element. The support frame includes a main shaft, at least one branch holder pivotally attached to an end of the main shaft, the at least one branch holder being adapted for supporting the at least one optical element, and at least one belt drive for pivoting the at least one branch holder, the at least one belt drive being actuated by the elevation shaft.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2017Date of Patent: January 29, 2019Assignee: King Saud UniversityInventors: Yousef Abdullah Almotlaq, Mazen Abdullah Baabbad, Hany Abdulrahman Alansary, Essam Abdulaziz Al Ammar
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Patent number: 9921289Abstract: The invention relates to a tracking device comprising a receiving structure that can be adjusted about at least one axis, for mounting at least one element that is sensitive to electromagnetic waves and has a preferential radiation direction, and comprising at least one rotational drive per axis for the purpose of actively rotationally adjusting said receiving structure in order for the element(s) mounted thereupon to track a celestial body on one or multiple axes with the aid of a control system and according to a predetermined algorithm, (each of) the rotational drive(s) comprising two annular connection elements that are concentric with one another, are mounted one upon the other, and are or can be coupled to at least one motor for mutual relative adjustment, a first connection element comprising at least one planar connection surface for fixing in place to a foundation, base, column or a connection element of another pivoting unit, and a second connection element comprising at least one planar connectionType: GrantFiled: December 6, 2012Date of Patent: March 20, 2018Assignee: IMO Holding GmbHInventors: Erich Russ, Hubertus Frank, Richard Nief, Konrad Büttel
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Patent number: 9673751Abstract: The present invention relates to a rotating solar concentrating device wherein reflective sheets hung in a catenary trough shape capable of solar concentration may be protectively furled and balanced and rotated about a vertical axis. The reflective sheets may be furled to protect them from damage from wind, rain, and dust. In some embodiments, rotating parts of the device may be hung from supports above. In some embodiments, a furling mechanism may initiate protective furling in response to damaging environmental factors. Some embodiments may concentrate light on a photovoltaic cell wherein the photovoltaic cell is cooled by immersion in a heat pipe. In some embodiments, reflective surfaces may be supported by cables that are tensioned by a hanging, rotating ballast. In some embodiments, the device may be employed in a ganged array. In some embodiments, the invention may harvest wind energy as a vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT).Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2014Date of Patent: June 6, 2017Inventor: David Timothy Dobney
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Patent number: 9377218Abstract: The invention relates to a solar receiver with natural circulation for generating saturated steam, which uses water/steam as a heat-transfer fluid and includes a combined circuit for fluid recirculation (forced circulation and natural circulation). The system comprises: water-walls which receive the radiation on the surface thereof and inside which the working fluid changes phase; riser pipes through which the water/steam mix exiting the pipes of the receiver rises towards the drum; downpipes through which the recirculation water descends from the drum to the receiver; and a support pump in order to increase the incident power in the receiver and start up the plant when necessary.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2010Date of Patent: June 28, 2016Assignee: Abengoa Solar New Technologies, S.A.Inventors: Raúl Navio Gilaberte, Lucía Serrano Gallar, Rafael Osuna Gonzalez-Aguilar, Paula Llorente Folch, Valerio Fernandez Quero
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Publication number: 20150107583Abstract: A cable drive system for solar tracking for solar array systems. The cable drive system employs one or more cables wound around a drive pulley of a drive device and one or more driven pulleys of respective rotatable solar assemblies of the solar array system. The system may use a tension device such as a spring or weight that returns the solar array system to an initial position at the end of the day. The drive device may be an active or passive solar tracker. The disclosed techniques of rotating solar panels are flexible, inexpensive, and reliable. The techniques can apply to any solar technology that benefit from following the sun.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2014Publication date: April 23, 2015Inventor: FINTAN JOSEPH DOYLE
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Patent number: 8991388Abstract: A movable solar array and method for capturing solar energy which includes a V-shaped longitudinal support forming a corner of an elongated truss located at each angle of a polygonal axial cross-section where an open web is fixedly attached between each V-shaped longitudinal support extending the length of the elongated truss. An end member is fixedly attached at each end of the support truss and includes a shaft extending longitudinally outwardly from the end member adapted to engage a drive to longitudinally rotate the elongated truss. Solar panels are attached along one face of the elongated truss, and at least one rotatable drive is capable of driving the shafts at the end of the elongated truss to move the solar panels in relation to a change of direction of incoming solar energy.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2010Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Nucor CorporationInventor: Bruce F. Brothersen
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Publication number: 20150068513Abstract: The solar concentrator includes a base with a support frame that is rotatably connected thereto. A torsion box is tiltably mounted to the support frame to provide a wide range of movement of the torsion box and the finish surface thereon, which is preferably of a single plane parabolic shape that carries a layer of highly reflective chrome material. A receiver is mounted above the surface of the chrome layer at the focus of the parabola by a bracket to optimize reflection of radiation thereto. Plumbing transports liquid, such as water, through the receiver for heating thereof for various purposes, such as water desalinization. Thus, the solar concentrator is an optimized low cost and easy to manufacture solar concentrator.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2014Publication date: March 12, 2015Inventor: David J. DiSanto
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Publication number: 20150007870Abstract: A system and method for providing real time control of a heliostat array or CPV/PV module that reduces actuation cost, the disclosure reduces the fixed cost of calibrating and repositioning an individual surface. This simultaneously removes the core engineering assumption that drives the development of large trackers, and enables a system and method to cost effectively track a small surface. In addition to lower initial capital cost, a small heliostat or solar tracker can be pre-assembled, mass-produced, and shipped more easily. Smaller mechanisms can also be installed with simple hand tools and do not require installers to rent expensive cranes or installation equipment.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2014Publication date: January 8, 2015Inventor: Thomas Joseph Currier
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Publication number: 20140338659Abstract: A solar tracking system with a plurality of tracking assemblies moved by a single motor. A method and system that prevents overloading the motor or tripping a circuit breaker due to an obstructed or impeded tracker includes sensing movement of the tracker assemblies and entering into obstruction clearing modes. Obstruction clearing mode 1 (OCM1) is a high frequency adjustable mode that prompts movement for an adjustable period of time. If movement commences, the system returns to a normal mode. If there is no movement, the system enters into an obstruction clearing mode 2 (OCM2) with is an adjustable lower frequency series of attempts. If there is no movement, no further attempts are made. Each of these steps are monitored and controlled remotely. There are two types of secure connections for drivelines, torque tubes or affixing driveline linkages for high torque conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2013Publication date: November 20, 2014Inventor: Ronald P. Corio
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Patent number: 8807129Abstract: A tracker drive system is provided for rotatably driving one or more objects, for example solar panels or other equipment. The system comprises a torque element mounted for rotation about a generally horizontal axis, wherein the torque element can support one or more objects for rotation therewith about the generally horizontal axis; a lever arm connected with the torque element, the lever arm being movable to rotate the torque element; a movable drive member that is drivable by a drive mechanism; and a dynamic coupler coupling the drive member with the lever arm such that the lever arm is drivable by the drive member to rotate the torque element.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2010Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Inventor: Kevin Keith Mackamul
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Publication number: 20140174499Abstract: A heliostat for reflecting sunlight toward a target includes a first structure supporting a mirror including inner and outer tubes being rotatable relative to one another. A first actuator includes an electric motor driving a reduction gearset to rotate one of the first tubes and rotate the mirror about a first axis. A second structure also includes inner and outer rotatable tubes. A second actuator includes a second electric motor driving a reduction gearset to rotate the mirror about a second axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2013Publication date: June 26, 2014Inventors: Brian M. Fitzgerald, John D. Zalewski, Franz Faschinger, Richard A. Bakowski, Philipp Ebner, David W. Wenthen, Burke Smith, Peter M. Jacobsen
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Publication number: 20140053825Abstract: The present invention involves a ganged single axis solar tracker and its drive system having at least two rows of solar trackers and a drive mechanism. Each tracker row shares one common rotation axis and the at least two tracker rows are placed in parallel. At least one torque arm is rigidly and perpendicularly connected to the each tracker rotation axis. The drive mechanism has at least one rotary actuator, such as a slew drive, whose rotation axis is parallel to the tracker rotation axes. At least one drive torque arm is rigidly and perpendicularly connected to the drive rotation axis. The drive torque arm and the tracker torque arms are hinge connected with a series of rigid beams. The linkage beams are perpendicular to the tracker and drive rotation axes. The rotary drive rotates and creates a rotation movement. The drive torque arm follows the rotation movement of the drive, which consequently converts a linear push-pull movement in the linkage beams.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2013Publication date: February 27, 2014Applicant: Suzhou Jinshan Solar Science and Technologies Co., Ltd.Inventor: Suzhou Jinshan Solar Science and Technologies Co., Ltd.
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Patent number: 8578928Abstract: The invention relates to improvements in orientable solar panel array systems of the type of solar panel arrays comprising a plurality of panels (1) for capturing solar radiation, arranged on a bearing structure pivotally assembled with respect to a horizontal tube (3), which in turn is rotatably assembled on the end of a support column (2), the structure bearing the panels (1) comprising two parallel trusses (4) on which trusses a series of longitudinal profiles with a C-shaped cross-section are transversely arranged, on which longitudinal profiles sliding profiles (6) with a square cross-section having an open groove in the upper part are perpendicularly arranged, on which sliding profiles the panels (1) are fastened.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2009Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Talleres Clavijo, S.L.Inventor: Ruben Clavijo Lumbreras
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Patent number: 8459249Abstract: A solar tracking system with a torque tube supporting solar panels. Columns support the system and have bearings for rotation of the torque tube. A drive is coupled to the torque tube and is driven by a gearbox, such as a worm gear assembly, for rotating the array of solar panels to follow the sun's diurnal motion. The array can rotate in an opposite direction, or backtrack, to prevent shadowing from one module row to another. Multiple gearboxes can be mechanically linked by drive shafts and driven by a single motor. The drive shafts may incorporate universal joints for uneven terrain or staggered configurations. Harmonic dampers can be affixed to the solar panels to decouple wind forces which allows the use of larger solar panels.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2008Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Inventor: Ronald P. Corio
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Publication number: 20130098355Abstract: A parabolic trough solar collector system has a parabolic reflector used with an independently supported collector tube. The parabolic reflector has a reflective surface formed on a reflective surface support structure, supported by a circular support beam. This assembly rests on a plurality of support and drive rollers supported by a roller support arm, supported by a roller support column. The parabolic reflector assembly rotates against the rollers along a single axis to maintain a focus line of the parabolic reflector surface at the same location as the center of the circle described by the outer edge of the circular support beam. Located at this same focus line is the independently supported collector tube not attached to the parabolic trough reflector. The collector tube is supported on pipe roller hangers, which in turn are supported by a wire catenary system connected to support towers which straddle the parabolic reflector.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2012Publication date: April 25, 2013Inventor: Kevin JENNINGS
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Publication number: 20130056000Abstract: A solar reflection apparatus (60) is disclosed comprising a rotatable reflection (assembly 20) and a drive mechanism (12) which is operable to drive rotation of the reflection assembly (20) at its axis of rotation. The reflection assembly (20) comprises a curved linear reflector (4) defining a focal axis F, a counter weight (17) operable to balance the self weight of the reflector (4), and a support structure (15) via which the reflector (4) and counter weight (17) are rotatably mounted at locations along the focal axis F of the reflector (4). A solar collection apparatus (2) is also disclosed comprising a solar reflection (apparatus 60) as disclosed above and a heat collecting element (6), fixedly mounted along the focal axis F of the reflector (4).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2011Publication date: March 7, 2013Applicant: DOW CORNING CORPORATIONInventor: Frank Perrin
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Patent number: 8381718Abstract: The invention in one embodiment includes an aiming device coupled to an actuator and an object. The system comprises a base attached to the actuator, and a frame rotatably affixed to the base and the object. The frame and object rotate together about a first axis in response to activation of the actuator, while the object discretely rotates relative to the frame about a second axis different than the first axis each time the frame rotates a predetermined angle relative to the base.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2007Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: IdeaLabInventor: Gregg Luconi
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Publication number: 20130042856Abstract: A system for positioning a heliostat mirror or a solar collector includes a support structure, a pivot mechanism adapted to pivot the heliostat mirror or solar collector about a first generally horizontal axis and about a second axis generally perpendicular to the first axis, the pivot mechanism is attached to a rear side of the heliostat mirror or solar collector and attached to the support structure. The system also includes a first cable drive actuator having a first motor, driving a first cable spool, and a first cable attached at a proximal end to the first cable spool and attached at a distal end to the heliostat mirror or solar collector, and a second cable drive actuator having a second motor driving a second cable spool, and a second cable attached at a proximal end to the second cable spool and attached to the heliostat mirror or solar collector.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2011Publication date: February 21, 2013Applicant: Google Inc.Inventors: Jon Switkes, Ross Koningstein, John S. Fitch, Tamsyn Peronel Waterhouse, Jung Shin Gwon
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Patent number: 8322332Abstract: A solar radiation collector system may includes a gimbal with a rim that supports a solar radiation concentrator or collector assembly passing through the plane of the rim, and foundation structures that support and anchor the gimbal, allowing it to both rotate and be raised or lowered. One flexible structural member may support the gimbal rim and a second flexible structural device both anchors the rim and enables the gimbal-collector assembly to rotate around an axis parallel to the earth's polar axis providing the desired primary tracking motion following the daily apparent motion of the sun. Motion between the gimbal and the solar radiation collector assembly allows the assembly to follow the apparent seasonal motion of the sun, among other tasks.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2010Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Inventor: William E. Rogers
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Patent number: 8316840Abstract: The invention discloses a novel and efficient drive mechanism for use in a variety of applications. This novel mechanism replaces traditional stepper motors or another analogous art with shape memory alloys. The drive mechanism so disclosed provides substantial operational benefits over conventional motors and other such traditional drive mechanisms that would be used in similar applications. The drive mechanism includes a high gear-ratio worm gear and worm drive which further provides precise, controlled movement of an output shaft. In the illustrative use elaborated upon herein, the motor is used to drive a photovoltaic panel so that the panel may remain in appropriate alignment with the sun throughout the day.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2009Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Inventors: Altaii Karim, Thomas Benjamin
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Publication number: 20120279489Abstract: A tracking device is disclosed for a unit, in particular a solar collector, to be directed toward a moving object. The tracking device has a bracket, which carries the unit and which is accommodated on a shaft that can be rotated about an azimuth axis by means of a hydraulic azimuth drive. Furthermore, the tracking device has a hydraulically adjustable tilting device for tilting the bracket, wherein a support of the shaft and the azimuth drive are arranged on or in a housing. At least one section of the shaft having the support thereof, the azimuth drive, and a pressure medium tank having pressure medium for supplying the azimuth drive and the tilting device are arranged in a common cavity of the housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2010Publication date: November 8, 2012Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Harald Vogt
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Publication number: 20120279550Abstract: A system and method are provided for continuously reorienting a solar panel array while maintaining a substantially stationary footprint for the solar panel. A cylindrically shaped knuckle is provided that is formed with a bottom surface and a top surface that is slanted relative to the bottom surface at a slant angle ?. One end of an upper pole is positioned against the top surface of the knuckle, and one end of a lower pole is positioned against the bottom surface of the knuckle. An upper and lower motor respectively connect the knuckle to the upper pole and the lower pole. These motors are used to continuously rotate the knuckle at an angular velocity ? relative to the upper and lower poles. When the knuckle rotates, the upper and lower poles remain stationary to allow the solar panel to continuously reorient while maintaining a substantially stationary footprint.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2011Publication date: November 8, 2012Inventors: Robert L. Noble, Desmond Wheatley
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Patent number: 8256911Abstract: The system for asynchronous remote steering of reflectors has parallel asynchronous remote steering mechanisms operably connected to reflectors. A powerless (mechanical) focal beam brake is also provided. In addition to the powerless focal beam brake, a plurality of safety mechanisms are employed. Remote angle checking is provided to adapt the system for solar thermal power plants, solar furnaces, or the like.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2011Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: King Fahd University of Petroleum and MineralsInventor: Jihad Hassan Al-Sadah
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Publication number: 20120199175Abstract: A solar energy system drive apparatus includes: a rotor including a first circumferential surface and having a first radial dimension from a center axis of the rotor; a stator that is axially aligned with the rotor about the center axis and includes a second circumferential surface and having a second radial dimension from the center of the rotor, wherein the second radial dimension is different than the first radial dimension; and a plurality of planetary members arranged about the first and second circumferential surfaces of the rotor and stator respectively, wherein each of the planetary members has a stepped circumferential surface comprising a third surface and a fourth surface such that the third circumferential surface is in contact with the first circumferential surface and has a third radial dimension from a central planetary axis of the planetary member.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2011Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: GOOGLE INC.Inventor: Ross Koningstein
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Publication number: 20120180780Abstract: A solar panel sun-tracing equipment includes a support stand unit comprising multiple stands, an axle holder pivotally supported on the stands and a plurality of transverse rods pivotally mounted in the elongated axle holder, a plurality of solar panels supported on the transverse rod, and a power drive comprising a first driving mechanism operable to move the elongated axle holder in biasing the solar panels in the X-axis direction and a second driving mechanism operable to move the elongated axle holder in biasing the solar panels in the Y-axis direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2011Publication date: July 19, 2012Inventors: Hsien-Te TSENG, Chun-Chih LIU, Chih-Li HUNG
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Publication number: 20120152233Abstract: To secure stable heat collection efficiency and a safe and less expensive support/driving mechanism, a solar collector includes a tracking unit rotatably arranged around a drive shaft. The tracking unit includes a heat collection tube disposed in a longitudinal direction of the tracking unit and converts sunlight into heat. A collector has a reflection panel having a concave cross section in a lateral direction thereof for reflecting sunlight on the heat collection tube and a support member supporting the reflection panel from the backside. The heat collection tube 30 is fixed to the collector. The support member includes a tubular main pipe at a lowermost portion and in the longitudinal direction of the support member, and a plurality of flat support frames fixed to the upper portion of the main pipe in the lateral direction and vertically fixed to the backside of the reflection panel along the concave portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Inventors: Hiroto MASUDA, Masayoshi SAKUMA, Shinichirou KAWANE, Kenji NAKAMURA
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Publication number: 20120125404Abstract: Modular solar radiation concentrator system, which consists of using several flat reflectors mounted on a platform that transmits to each reflector rotation about two axes, allowing the concentration of solar radiation in an area or specific predetermined point in space. Each module is connected to a monitoring instrument, with specific software that allows knowing the sun's apparent path at the system installation site. Thus, the control of all reflectors of each module is conducted on their two axes of rotation so that solar radiation is, in every moment of the day, and every day of the year, focused or simply deviated to a particular point. The system described is specially devoted to solar concentration for the purpose of generating electricity, heat or both simultaneously, especially in buildings where the point of concentration may be, among others, a Stirling engine, a steam turbine or photovoltaic cells.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2010Publication date: May 24, 2012Inventor: Leonel José Dos Santos Teixeira Ramos
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Patent number: 8168931Abstract: A dual axis tracker is a solar collecting device with fully mobile panel arrays that can be fully rotated 360° and tilted from a 90° position to a 10° position relative to the earth and is easy to maintain and operate. This device has a base support followed by a stable lower column attached thereto and a movable or rotatable upper column that permits full rotation located thereon. This permits the full rotation. A motorized jack is employed to tilt the panel array from the 90° position to a 10°. Since the array is held higher off the ground by a longer lower column, such vertical positioning is achieved in a better manner than prior art devices. Because of these movements more power can be produced in a given amount of time than prior art devices. In addition, during periods of snowfall, this device can collect more radiation off the accumulated snow cover that will surround the device thus taking advantage of said radiation to produce even greater power than previously possible.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2009Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Concrete Systems, Inc.Inventor: Anton Bogdan Thel
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Patent number: 8161962Abstract: A sun tracking system includes a reduction device of a servo motor, multiple shafts, multiple couplers, and at least two rows of cylinders and each row having at least two cylinders, a solar panel, multiple pivotal connection units and multiple sliding units. The reduction device of a servo motor drives the cylinders of the first and second rows of cylinders which drive other cylinders. The cylinders of the first row of cylinders are pivotably connected to the solar panel and the cylinders of the second row of cylinders are movably connected to the solar panel. By the cylinders of the same row moving upward or downward while the cylinders of the other row moving downward or upward, the panel is controlled to aim the sun.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2010Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Inventor: Yi-Tieng Kuo
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Publication number: 20120073565Abstract: The present invention relates to a single-axis solar tracker and solar power installation. The tracker comprising: a row H1 of coplanar and adjacent solar panels P secured to a horizontal common rotating shaft E1; a support structure wherein said common rotating shaft E1 is rotatably mounted, actuation means with a geared motor M in connection with a part P1 in the form of a circular sector secured to the common rotating shaft E1, and a support base B1 attached to the ground wherein said support structure and said geared motor M are secured. The solar power installation comprises the solar tracker proposed with its actuation mechanism in mechanical connection with a series of actuation mechanisms of other solar trackers included in the installation.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2010Publication date: March 29, 2012Applicant: SOLTEC ENERGIAS RENOVABLES, S.L.Inventors: Thomas Grant, Raul Morales torres
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Patent number: 8111460Abstract: The present invention provides a solar tracking skylight system for illumination, primarily including a light guide, a solar tracking controller, a two-axis tracking mechanism, an energy converter and energy storage system, and a weather protective cover. The system uses the solar tracking controller to detect the direction of the light, thereby enabling the two-axis tracking mechanism to move toward the light to facilitate the light guide in collecting light and diffusing it indoors for illumination use. The protective cover provides waterproofing, and the energy converter and energy storage system is used to store electrical energy generated by the solar energy panel for system use. External power is not needed for the system to operate and provide indoor lighting, thereby achieving the objective of saving energy and reducing carbon emissions.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2010Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: National Taipei University of TechnologyInventor: Po-Chuan Huang
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Publication number: 20110284055Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity, heat, or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2011Publication date: November 24, 2011Applicant: Cogenra Solar, Inc.Inventors: Gilad Almogy, Ratson Morad, Ofer Ricklis, Nathan P. Beckett, Amir Bar, Andrey Bochkariov, Amir A. Weiss, Radu Raduta, Brian E. Atchley
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Publication number: 20110240007Abstract: A system and method for providing real time control of a heliostat array or CPV/PV module that reduces actuation cost, the disclosure reduces the fixed cost of calibrating and repositioning an individual surface. This simultaneously removes the core engineering assumption that drives the development of large trackers, and enables a system and method to cost effectively track a small surface. In addition to lower initial capital cost, a small heliostat or solar tracker can be pre-assembled, mass-produced, and shipped more easily. Smaller mechanisms can also be installed with simple hand tools and do not require installers to rent expensive cranes or installation equipment.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2011Publication date: October 6, 2011Applicant: BLACK SWAN SOLAR, INC.Inventor: Thomas Currier
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Publication number: 20110232631Abstract: A panel of flat mirrors reflect light towards one or more locations. The light reaching the one or more locations is converted into another form of energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2009Publication date: September 29, 2011Inventor: Jon Bøhmer
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Publication number: 20110203574Abstract: Non-tracking solar collector device (1) comprising at least an absorber element (2), at least a couple of reflector elements (3) disposed on opposite sides of the absorber element (2) for conveying the solar radiation onto the absorber element itself and said reflector elements (3) comprising at least one fixed portion (8a,8b) and at least one rotating portion (9); the rotating portions (9) being movable between at least a first extreme position (10), in which the rotating portions are moved away from each other and the entire surface of said reflector elements (3) is substantially continuous, and a second extreme position (11), in which the rotating portions are moved close to each other in order to substantially obscure said absorber element (2).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2009Publication date: August 25, 2011Inventor: Geoffrey Lester Harding
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Publication number: 20110079214Abstract: A solar power station includes a plurality of solar panels each connected to a leaf, the leaf including a roof beam; a plurality of bearing plates respectively attached to the roof beams of the leaves; a first supporting structure connected to the bearing plates; a second supporting structure rotatably connected to the first supporting structure and fixedly mounted to a base; and a plurality of hydraulic jacks. One end of each hydraulic jack is fixed with the first supporting structure, and another end of the hydraulic jack is pivotally mounted to the roof beam of one of the leaves.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2009Publication date: April 7, 2011Inventor: Wai Man HON