With Concentrating Reflector And Concentrating Lens Patents (Class 126/683)
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Patent number: 11977272Abstract: A support system for holding solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes a frame for supporting the mirrors. The system includes a rib attached to the frame. The system includes at least a first roller engaged with the rib along which the rib moves as the frame moves. A method for moving a frame supporting solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes the steps of moving the frame on a roller guided by a rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a first position. There is the step of moving the frame on the roller guided by the rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a second position. A roller for engaging with a rib attached to a frame that holds mirrors of a solar trough system. An apparatus for cleaning solar mirrors on a frame of a solar trough system. A method for cleaning mirrors on a framework of a solar trough system. A rib for a frame that holds solar mirrors of a solar trough system which engages with a roller.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2019Date of Patent: May 7, 2024Assignee: Werner Extrusion Solutions LLCInventors: Craig Roy Werner, John Funai
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Patent number: 11365903Abstract: An extremely low cost solar concentrator made of membranes or films is inflated into a Compound Parabolic Concentrator (CPC) a non-image concentrator. The portion of the inflatable concentrator, which is shaped into a CPC concentrator, is formed with reflective membranes or films, and the portions of the inflatable concentrator on the top of CPC and on the bottom of the concentrator are made of clear membranes or films. The incident light including parallel rays of light and diffuse light, as long as falling into the half acceptance angle of the CPC, will be concentrated to the bottom exit aperture of the CPC. Therefore, this type concentrator reduces the requirement to the accuracy of tracking for concentration. In addition, this type of concentrator demonstrates more tolerance to shape distortion for concentration than imaging system.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2016Date of Patent: June 21, 2022Inventor: Yonghua Wang
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Patent number: 11099328Abstract: An optical coupler including a first surface intended to receive a light beam and a second surface intended to supply at least part of the light beam, and a lateral wall connecting the first surface to the second surface, the lateral wall successively including, between the first and second surfaces, a first concave portion and a first convex portion.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2019Date of Patent: August 24, 2021Assignee: Commissariat à l'Énergie Atomique et aux Énergies AlternativesInventors: Gilles Le Blevennec, Marianne Consonni
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Patent number: 10928614Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus are described to provide a large emittance angle and a large beamforming aperture for radiation emitted by a relatively small transmit aperture. For example, a diffractive concentrator structure can provide a large emittance angle and a large beamforming aperture for radiation emitted by a small transmit aperture and delivered to a larger exit aperture.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2018Date of Patent: February 23, 2021Assignee: Searete LLCInventor: Yaroslav A. Urzhumov
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Patent number: 10775635Abstract: The invention provides a lighting device (1) lighting device (10) comprising: (I) a first light source (110) configured to provide first light source light (101); (II) a luminescent material (200) configured to convert at least part of the first light source light (101) into luminescent material light (201); (III) a beam shaping optical element (300) having a light entrance side (341) and a light exit side (342), and a wall (347) bridging a distance between the light entrance side (341) and the light exit side (342), wherein at least part of the wall (347) is reflective for the luminescent material light (201), wherein the beam shaping optical element (300) is configured to receive at least part of the luminescent material light (201) at the light entrance side (341) and to provide beam shaped luminescent material light (201) at the light exit side (342); (IV) an elongated light transmissive body (100) having a first face (141) and a second face (142) defining a length (L) of the light transmissive body (100)Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2018Date of Patent: September 15, 2020Assignee: SIGNIFY HOLDING B.V.Inventors: Hugo Johan Cornelissen, Olexandr Valentynovych Vdovin, Evgeni Arkad'Evich Patent, Daniel Anton Benoy
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Patent number: 10581373Abstract: A concentrator and a solar light router for converting light energy into electrical, photochemical and thermal energy, among other possible forms of usable energy, comprising a fixed body (1) and a movable part (2), wherein the fixed body (1) has an upper side with a converging lens (4) through which the sun rays (R1) enter, and a lower side where a mirror (5) is arranged. The mobile part 2 has a support arm 7 having a lower leg 8 coupled to a movement unit 10, and an upper leg 9 extending above the converging lens 4, in which is displaceable mounted a module (11) receptor/router of convergent solar rays (R4) that emerges from the fixed body (1).Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2017Date of Patent: March 3, 2020Inventor: Alejandro Vertanessian
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Patent number: 10554168Abstract: A light-concentrating, solar system, comprising: a first Fresnel lens (111) provided with at least one tooth face, wherein each tooth face contains at least one Fresnel unit; two reflective faces (112, 113) arranged to enable incident sunlight to converge via the first Fresnel lens (111), and then to irradiate to a first reflective face (112), and at least part of the incident sunlight to be reflected onto a second reflective face (113) by the first reflective face (112); and a photovoltaic panel (114) arranged to enable at least part of the sunlight reflected by the second reflective face (113) to directly irradiate to or be led to irradiate to the photovoltaic panel (114).Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2015Date of Patent: February 4, 2020Assignee: BOLYMEDIA HOLDINGS CO. LTD.Inventor: Xiaoping Hu
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Patent number: 10466440Abstract: A support system for holding solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes a frame for supporting the mirrors. The system includes a rib attached to the frame. The system includes at least a first roller engaged with the rib along which the rib moves as the frame moves. A method for moving a frame supporting solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes the steps of moving the frame on a roller guided by a rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a first position. There is the step of moving the frame on the roller guided by the rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a second position. A roller for engaging with a rib attached to a frame that holds mirrors of a solar trough system. An apparatus for cleaning solar mirrors on a frame of a solar trough system. A method for cleaning mirrors on a framework of a solar trough system. A rib for a frame that holds solar mirrors of a solar trough system which engages with a roller.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2014Date of Patent: November 5, 2019Assignee: Werner Extrusion Solutions LLCInventors: Craig Roy Werner, John Funai
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Patent number: 10379193Abstract: A slew gear drive including a housing having a tubular portion having a longitudinal axis, a shaft formed with a worm gear configured for rotational movement about the longitudinal axis within the tubular portion of the housing, and a torque tube having an outer surface, the torque tube carried by the housing for rotational movement about a rotational axis perpendicular to the worm gear, wherein an inner race coupled to the torque tube including a gear having teeth configured to engage the worm gear, the teeth extending less than a 360 degrees around the inner race. Rotation of the worm gear about the longitudinal axis engaging the teeth of the inner race, thereby rotating the inner race the torque tube about the rotational axis relative to the housing.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2018Date of Patent: August 13, 2019Assignee: NEXTracker Inc.Inventor: Alexander W. Au
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Patent number: 10063184Abstract: An improvised Solar Concentrator and Absorber/Receiver Subsystem using a Dual-Stage Parabolic Concentrator for Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) (Thermal) system comprises of two parabolic mirrored reflectors wherein their apertures face each other with their focal point/line and axes coincides with each other, a plurality of absorber tubes/cavities placed on the non-reflecting side of the primary and/or secondary reflectors to carry heat transfer fluid, combined with relevant mechanisms to prevent/minimize thermal loss, mounted on a Sun tracking mechanism. For Concentrating Photovoltaic (CPV) and Concentrating Hybrid Thermo-Photovoltaic (CHTPV) Systems, all or a portion of the reflectors' reflecting and/or exterior surfaces would be covered or substituted with suitable photovoltaic panels.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2017Date of Patent: August 28, 2018Inventors: Karthigueyane Lakshmanan, Rajaganapathy Lakshmanan
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Patent number: 9658438Abstract: A compound polyhedral concentrator (CPOC) lens is disclosed with one smooth curved surface facing the sun and an inner surface comprised of a 3D pattern of interpenetrating minimum deviation prisms with a common origin facing the absorber. This new type of stationary solar concentrator is used to extend the acceptance angles by minimizing blocking and tip optical losses that are common with radial Fresnel design forms. Moreover, when considering the extended time period for non-tracking of the sun's movement commensurate with the increased acceptance angles the total energy collected using a combination of a CPOC lens and a photovoltaic device will be greater than the total energy collected using the photovoltaic device by itself.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2014Date of Patent: May 23, 2017Assignee: LITRICITY, LLC.Inventors: Thomas C. Forrester, Mark Bennahmias, Robert S. Block, Paul Sidlo, Rudolf A. Wiedemann
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Patent number: 9333687Abstract: A light reflection device includes a composite substrate, a mirror plastic film securely affixed to the composite substrate and a reflection coating affixed to the composite substrate with the mirror plastic film sandwiched therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2012Date of Patent: May 10, 2016Assignee: Shanghai Huyu Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kang Zhuang Xiong
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Patent number: 9244260Abstract: An arrangement utilizes diffractive, reflective and/or refractive optical elements combined to intensify and homogenize electromagnetic energy, such as natural sunlight in the terrestrial environment, for purposes such as irradiating a target area with concentrated homogenized energy. A heat activated safety mechanism is also described.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2014Date of Patent: January 26, 2016Assignee: LITRICITY, LLCInventors: Thomas C. Forrester, Robert S. Block
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Patent number: 9212829Abstract: A simple and portable solar heat collector comprises a sheet of lenses, the sheet of lenses receiving light on a first side and focusing the light at focal points on a second side; and tubing on the second side. The tubing comprises an input tube for receiving heat absorbing fluid, internal tubing for routing heat absorbing fluid through at least some of the focal points of the sheet of lenses, and an output tube for outputting heated heat absorbing fluid.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2012Date of Patent: December 15, 2015Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventor: Mark A. Friesel
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Patent number: 8988791Abstract: A light collector includes a light guide having a refractive index larger than a refractive index of air and a reflecting surface configured to reflect light output from a conic surface of the light guide back to the light guide. The light guide is made of transparent material through which light passes. The light guide has an entering portion from which light enters and an exiting portion from which the light exits. The light guide has a circular cone shape and has a cross-sectional area that decreases in a direction from the entering portion to the exiting portion.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2011Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignees: Denso Corporation, National University Corporation Nagoya UniversityInventors: Yoshiyasu Yamada, Koichi Mori
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Patent number: 8960182Abstract: A device for storage and conveyance of thermal energy for an energy production system apt to receive solar radiation and based on the use of a modular fluidizable granular bed and a heat exchanger associated thereto is described.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2011Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Magaldi Industrie S.R.L.Inventors: Mario Magaldi, Gennaro De Michele, Piero Salatino
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Patent number: 8944047Abstract: The invention relates to a device (10) for converting solar energy, comprising a solar radiation capturing unit (11) comprising at least one lens having a entry surface (11a) for the incident solar radiation and an exit surface (11b) for emitting the solar radiation in refracted form to a solar radiation concentrating unit (12) comprising a reflector surface (12a) for reflecting the solar radiation incident on the reflector surface (12a) from the exit surface of the lens (11b) to at least one target area (13) of the solar radiation concentrating unit (12). The device (10) comprises positioning means (14) for orienting the solar radiation capturing unit (11) and the solar radiation concentrating unit (12) with respect to each other through rotation about at least one axis (11?) perpendicular to a plane formed by the lens.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2007Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: Suncycle International GmbHInventors: Roy Bijl, Peter Penning
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Patent number: 8881474Abstract: Disclosed is a housing and mounting assembly for a skylight module, and particularly for a skylight module that incorporates an energy management system. The housing and mounting assembly is configured to efficiently capture both direct solar and diffuse ambient light, and deliver light that is diffuse to the space below the skylight that provides even illumination and no unpleasant glare spots. The walls of the skylight module may be formed of multi-wall polycarbonate panels configured to redirect both the upward- and downward-shining light through the aperture into the space below. Moreover, the curb of the assembly may include a flexible flashing strip provided with a reflective coating configured to reflect sunlight upward through the walls of the assembly and into the skylight module, such that the advantages of collecting and using such reflected light can be achieved even in a retrofit installation on a non-reflective roofing surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2013Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: MBC Ventures, Inc.Inventor: John Joseph Tandler
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Publication number: 20140261392Abstract: A solar collector apparatus includes a parabolic mirror configured to direct solar energy through a double convex lens and towards a linear set of secondary mirrors, each of the secondary mirrors positioned to direct the solar energy towards a solar collection target. The subsequent diversion achieved by the solar collector apparatus allows collection of solar energy several times denser than natural sunlight, and can be captured using a substantially compact system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventor: Richard M. Lambrecht
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Patent number: 8776783Abstract: A solar energy collector includes a frustoconical reflective shell and a light converging lens. The frustoconical reflective shell includes a top opening and an opposite bottom opening. The reflective shell tapers from the top opening to the bottom opening. The reflective shell is configured for reflecting light. The light converging lens is arranged at the top opening and is fixed on the sidewall of the reflective shell. The light concentration lens includes a central lens portion and a periphery lens portion. The central lens portion includes a first light incident portion facing away from the bottom opening. The central lens portion includes a plurality of concentric annular prisms cooperatively forming a Fresnel-lens structure. The periphery lens portion is arranged surrounding the central lens portion. The periphery lens portion includes a convex second lens portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2009Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Shan-Fu Huang
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Patent number: 8767302Abstract: A laminated optical disk, applied for lighting system or solar energy system, includes a plurality of annular lenses, a base and a circular light guiding unit. The annular lenses are arranged in order from center to outside to form a disk-structure. Each annular lens has a light-input curved surface and a light-output curved surface respectively matching the different thickness of the base. The light-input curved surface is opposite to the center. The light-output curved surface is opposite to the light-input curved surface, and facing to the center. The light is incident on the light-input curved surface, refracted and tended to concentrate by the light-input curved surface. Besides, the light exiting from the annular lens is to be refracted to the direction of the center by the light-output curved surface. The base of the laminated optical disk can significantly improve the light leakage problem by different annular lenses.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2013Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: National Taiwan University of Science and TechnologyInventors: Jong-Woei Whang, Chieh-Jen Hsiao, Meng-Che Tsai, Chung-Wei Wang, Ya-Hui Chang
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Patent number: 8752379Abstract: A hybrid solar/non-solar thermal generation system includes a solar concentrator and collector, and fiber optic cables that transfer collected solar radiation to a solar to thermal converter. The solar to thermal converter converts the solar radiation to heat that is used to augment the heating of a working fluid in a boiler. The system has particular application for use in Rankine cycle power generation plants that employ non-solar sources to heat the working fluid.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2011Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Inventor: Jonathan Michael Phillips Falcey
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Patent number: 8689784Abstract: An improved solar concentrator, where because sunlight is focused into parallel or collimated beams the light can be reflected and controlled by a series of mirrors and collected to form increasingly powerful collimated beams targeted onto a reactor; where each array tracks the sun with a dual-axis solar tracker, an array has multiple units that have a collecting fresnel lens, a collimating lens and a mirror, an array has a centralizing mirror which gathers the fresnel unit light in middle of each array, the array beams are then reflected off of a series of mirrors that bounce the light beams form mirror to mirror and collect the beam energy from multiple arrays into one or more high power beams, which are bounced off mirrors until they hit the reactor.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2006Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Inventor: James Matthew Monsebroten
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Patent number: 8656717Abstract: A solar powered generator assembly is provided for driving a turbine using steam produced by solar power. The assembly includes a fluid tank and a fluid line having a first end and a second end each in fluid communication with the fluid tank. A fluid is positioned in the fluid tank and the fluid line. A lens focuses solar rays into a heat collector coupled to the lens. The heat collector has a reflective curved interior surface configured for reflecting solar rays to facilitate heating the heat collector. A medial portion of the fluid line is wrapped around and heated by the heat collector converting the fluid into a gaseous state. A turbine is operationally coupled to the fluid line driving the turbine to produce electrical current.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2011Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Inventor: Robert M. Parker
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Patent number: 8631787Abstract: The present embodiments provide methods and systems to homogenize illumination on a target.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2008Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: Light Prescriptions Innovators, LLCInventors: Pablo Benitez, Juan Carlos Minano, Maikel Hernandez, Jose Blen, Ruben Mohedano, Oliver Dross
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Patent number: 8546681Abstract: A photovoltaic device comprising an array of elongate reflector elements mounted substantially parallel to one another and transversely spaced in series, at least one of the reflector elements having an elongate concave reflective surface to reflect incident solar radiation towards a forward adjacent reflector element in the array. The at least one reflector element includes a photovoltaic receptor mounted on the reflector element by a mounting arrangement to receive reflected solar radiation from a rearward adjacent reflector element The reflector element also includes a heat sink in heat transfer relationship with the photovoltaic receptor, thermally isolating the photovoltaic receptor, at least partially, from the reflector element.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2012Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Assignee: SunPower CorporationInventors: Brian Wares, Stephan Barsun, Tom Dinwoodie
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Patent number: 8434472Abstract: An apparatus is provided for the collection and conversion of light energy. The apparatus includes, a sandwich core structure, a collector element and a concentrator including one or more reflector elements and positioned at an exterior surface of the sandwich core structure.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2009Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: CellTech Metals, Inc.Inventors: Gordon N. Hanson, Fabien Ebnoether, Clifford Delmage
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Patent number: 8430090Abstract: A two-axis solar tracker apparatus is disclosed having multiple dish-shaped monolithic reflectors for concentrating sunlight. The dish-shaped monolithic reflectors are co-axially aligned in an array supported by a moveable frame. The moveable frame forms the elevation structure of a two-axis tracker that has control means for following the movement of the sun across the sky. Each dish-shaped monolithic reflector produces a region of concentrated sunlight suitable for generation of solar energy. A generator is positioned at the focus of each reflector. A preferred generator uses photovoltaic cells to generate electricity at a high output power due to the high solar power input that is directed to the generator by the dish-shaped monolithic reflector.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2009Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents on Behalf of University of ArizonaInventors: Roger P Angel, Warren B Davison
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Patent number: 8430093Abstract: A solar collector includes a collecting mirror defining a radiation-transparent window. A collimating mirror re-reflects the collected radiation through the window to a black-body absorber located behind the collecting mirror. A working fluid flows through the black-body absorber to absorb the resulting power and to transfer the power to a utilization apparatus. The collecting and collimating mirrors may be elongated (cylindrical), or they may be axially symmetric. The working fluid may flow through a separate tube, or simply be contained by an aperture in a block of insulation.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2009Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventor: Daniel W. Harris
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Patent number: 8353285Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2006Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventor: Robert Z. Litwin
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Patent number: 8342169Abstract: A reciprocating solar engine includes a) a seesawing platform having a central fulcrum support upon which to reciprocally rotate the platform; b) a first container located on the platform on one side and a second container located on the other side of the platform; c) a solar reflector located adjacent each container; d) a connecting tube connecting the first and second containers; e) an evaporative fluid contained within at least one of the containers; f) a roof above the platform with a window located above each of the containers; g) shutter devices at each of the windows; and b) shutter device controls to activate the shutter devices to present alternating exposure of sunlight and shading at each of the containers to effect reciprocal movement.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2009Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Assignee: Kenergy Scientific, Inc.Inventor: Kenneth P. Glynn
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Patent number: 8307822Abstract: A solar energy device includes a first prism with a dichroic surface and a reflective surface opposite the dichroic surface. A first solar cell is positioned to receive light rays passing through the dichroic surface. A second solar cell positioned to receive light rays from the reflective surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2008Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventor: Scott Lerner
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Patent number: 8304644Abstract: A photovoltaic device comprising an array of elongate reflector elements mounted substantially parallel to one another and transversely spaced in series, at least one of the reflector elements having an elongate concave reflective surface to reflect incident solar radiation towards a forward adjacent reflector element in the array. The at least one reflector element includes a photovoltaic assembly which is removably and replaceably mounted on the reflector element. The photovoltaic assembly includes a photovoltaic receptor to receive reflected solar radiation from a rearward adjacent reflector element. The photovoltaic assembly also includes a heat sink in heat transfer relationship with the photovoltaic receptor, thermally isolating the photovoltaic receptor, at least partially, from the reflector element.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2009Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Assignee: SunPower CorporationInventors: Brian Wares, Stephan Barsun, Tom Dinwoodie
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Patent number: 8230851Abstract: A solar power system for supplying concentrated solar energy. The system includes a cylindrical absorber tube carrying the working fluid and a concentrator assembly, which includes an array of linear lenses such as Fresnel lenses. The concentrator assembly includes a planar optical wafer paired with each of the linear lenses to direct light, which the lenses focus on a first edge of the wafers, onto the collector via a second or output edge of the wafers. Each of the optical wafers is formed from a light transmissive material and acts as a light “pipe.” The lens array is spaced apart a distance from the first edges of the optical wafers. This distance or lens array height is periodically adjusted to account for seasonal changes in the Sun's position, such that the focal point of each linear lens remains upon the first edge of one of the optical wafers yearlong.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2011Date of Patent: July 31, 2012Assignee: Genie Lens Technology, LLCInventors: Mark A. Raymond, Howard G. Lange, Seth Weiss
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Publication number: 20110197880Abstract: Arrangements may include a concentrator constructed and arranged to receive incident electromagnetic energy and to concentrate the incident electromagnetic energy to a greater intensity level; an electromagnetic receiving device comprising a first surface constructed and arranged to receive the concentrated electromagnetic energy, and a second surface opposite the first surface; a heat transport device comprising at least one duct and a first surface; and a thermal interface layer physically connected to at least a portion of the second surface of the electromagnetic energy receiving device and the first surface of the heat transport device, the thermal interface material being both electrically and thermally conductive. Related methods and additional arrangements are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2011Publication date: August 18, 2011Inventors: KRS Murthy, Robert S. Block, Allen J. Amaro
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Publication number: 20110193512Abstract: An energy farm system that harnesses energy from the environment has an integrated energy collector that harnesses solar light radiation, solar heat radiation, and harnesses wind energy. Some embodiments of the collector may be used for powering lights on a pole, communication equipment outdoors, and be suitable for powering homes and buildings. The collector harnesses wind energy by a horizontal axis rotation wind mill, harnesses solar light radiation by using a system of lenses that focus light to the center to the photovoltaic cells, and harnesses solar heat radiation by using a system of lenses that focus heat to the center to a heat exchanger. The collector mounted on a pole receives solar energy from the sun rays, as the sun travels from east to west. The lens elements focus light and heat radiation towards the center of the collector to a solar cell array and a solar energy collector.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2010Publication date: August 11, 2011Inventors: Tara Chand Singhal, Mukunda Singhal
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Publication number: 20110168164Abstract: A system for releasing and capturing gases from a regolith material has a frame that is movable to define a capture space on a regolith material. A mirror captures solar energy, and focuses energy through a lens and on a regolith defined within the captured space. Apparatus is provided for capturing released gas. A method of operating such a system is also disclosed and claimed. In addition, a method of forming structural material is also disclosed and claimed.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2010Publication date: July 14, 2011Inventors: Andrew J. Zillmer, Joseph P. Carroll
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Patent number: 7975685Abstract: The present invention relates to a solar collecting and utilizing device, comprising: one or more paraboloidal light collecting mirrors for collecting/converging the sunlight; a light guider including a light guider mirror for receiving the sunlight converged by said paraboloidal light collecting mirrors and converting it into parallel light beams in a desired direction; one or more curved surface condenser mirrors for receiving/converging substantially parallel light beams from said light guider; a solar storage and conversion device for storing/converting the energy converged by said curved surface condenser mirrors; a solar tracking equipment for tracking automatically the sunlight so as to always keep the opening surface of said paraboloidal light collecting mirrors substantially vertical to the sunlight. The focus of said light collecting mirror always superposes the focus of the corresponding light guider mirror.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2003Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Inventor: Xiaofeng Zhao
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Patent number: 7973235Abstract: A hybrid solar lighting distribution system and components having at least one hybrid solar concentrator, at least one fiber receiver, at least one hybrid luminaire, and a light distribution system operably connected to each hybrid solar concentrator and each hybrid luminaire. A controller operates all components.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2004Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: UT-Batelle, LLCInventors: Jeffrey D. Muhs, Dennis D. Earl, David L. Beshears, Lonnie C. Maxey, John K. Jordan, Randall F. Lind
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Patent number: 7946287Abstract: Solar concentrator system(s) that include parabolic Total Reflection Reflectors with corrected Curved Rectangular Total Reflection Prisms are provided. The corrected Curved Rectangular Total Reflection Prisms remove optical imperfections of diffusion typically present at conventional rectangular prisms of conventional parabolic and paraboloid TRR, and enable accurate focusing and high concentration ratios. A variation of the corrected Curved Rectangular Total Reflection Prisms allows the construction of a corrected solar wave guide with total reflection walls (Solar Artery), which enables the removal of the diffusion (and losses) typically present at conventional Hollow Solar Wave Guides, and increase by one or more orders of magnitude the light-propagation range of Solar Arteries for the same level of losses.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2004Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Inventor: Alexandros Papadopoulos
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Publication number: 20110114078Abstract: An efficient and cost effective system for the collection, concentration, and delivery of disperse solar energy to a central location for use in electrical power generation. The system includes a unique structural design for a strong lightweight parabolic dish heliostat. It couples this heliostat with a small collimating lens (or mirror) and a flat side mirror to redirect the resultant concentrated solar energy beam to a central receiver.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2010Publication date: May 19, 2011Inventor: Gerald Reed Fargo
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Publication number: 20110108018Abstract: A solar energy conversion apparatus including a solar collection apparatus configured for tracking the sun, a first loop array for channeling a first heat transfer fluid to and from a fluid reservoir operating as a heat sink, a second loop array for channeling a second heat transfer fluid to and from the fluid reservoir for interfacing via a heat exchanger therewith, a third loop array for channeling a third heat transfer fluid to and from the fluid reservoir for interfacing via a heat exchanger therewith.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2010Publication date: May 12, 2011Inventors: Richard G. Heinsohn, Gary L. K. Best
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Patent number: 7854224Abstract: A solar chimney includes a solar collector which heats air in the chimney, producing updrafts which can be harnessed to perform useful work. The solar collector may be located inside or outside the chimney. The device may include a reservoir for storing a heat transfer fluid, thus enabling the device to be used during both day and night. The solar chimney may be equipped with both internal and external solar collectors, operating in parallel. The solar chimney may also be equipped with multiple external solar collectors, connected in parallel to a reservoir. The solar chimney of the invention provides a convenient and practical way to convert solar energy into electrical power.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2007Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Inventor: Pitaya Yangpichit
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Publication number: 20100313879Abstract: A solar energy collector includes a frustoconical reflective shell and a light converging lens. The frustoconical reflective shell includes a top opening and an opposite bottom opening. The reflective shell tapers from the top opening to the bottom opening. The reflective shell is configured for reflecting light. The light converging lens is arranged at the top opening and is fixed on the sidewall of the reflective shell. The light concentration lens includes a central lens portion and a periphery lens portion. The central lens portion includes a first light incident portion facing away from the bottom opening. The central lens portion includes a plurality of concentric annular prisms cooperatively forming a Fresnel-lens structure. The periphery lens portion is arranged surrounding the central lens portion. The periphery lens portion includes a convex second lens portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2009Publication date: December 16, 2010Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.Inventor: SHAN-FU HUANG
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Patent number: 7845345Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2008Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Inventors: Cheryl Glazer, Elliott Glazer, Steven Glazer
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Publication number: 20100288266Abstract: The inventive device provides a means to concentrate solar thermal energy and transmit this energy to the fluid in a tank. This tank may be relatively distant and otherwise inaccessible to sunlight such as a hot water heater in a residence. By supplementing traditional energy sources, the invention could reduce the duty cycle of a conventional hot water heater's energy source and hence increase efficiency and lower operating cost. The device performs these duties via a series of lenses, mirrors and control systems which can be powered by integrated photovoltaic panels. The system can therefore be self-powered.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2009Publication date: November 18, 2010Inventor: Arthur Drevnig
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Publication number: 20100242952Abstract: A tower type heat dissipating structure is applied to dissipate the heat of a solar power system. The solar power system is provided with a reflector having a hemispheric surface for reflecting the sunlight to a solar cell. The heat dissipating structure comprises a heat-conducting plate, a plate type heat pipe and a plurality of heat dissipating fins. One side of the heat-conducting plate is connected with the solar cell, and the other side is provided with a groove for being embedded an end of the plate type heat pipe. The heat dissipating fins is arranged with an inclination angle against the plate type heat pipe that can promote the heated air within the gaps to rise. The heat is rapidly conduced to prevent the solar cell from being destroyed by overheating for reducing the repairing costs.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2009Publication date: September 30, 2010Inventors: George Anthony MEYER, IV, Chien-Hung SUN, Chieh-Ping CHEN
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Patent number: 7797939Abstract: A concentrating solar receiver that maximizes the amount of solar energy available for conversion to electricity that utilizes a primary reflector, a secondary reflector and a fresnel lens to both reflect and refract solar rays to a thermal cycle engine receiver which converts solar energy to mechanical energy which is in turn converted into electrical energy using an electric generator. The configuration creates focal points that protect the thermal cycle engine receiver from high temperatures and provides uniform density of solar energy within the thermal cycle engine receiver. The solar receiver is moved in response to a sun tracking sensor using a vertical and a horizontal drive motor. The thermal cycle engine and the electric generator, representing the majority of mass, are centered on the vertical support and are low to the ground.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2008Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Inventor: Timmy Green
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Patent number: 7793654Abstract: A solar tracking system comprising a solar panel, a support base, and a panel mounting section mounted to the support base for rotation about a generally vertical axis of rotation. The panel is mounted to the mounting section to be able to rotate about a generally horizontal secondary panel axis of rotation. There is a panel positioning section comprising a base positioning section and an intermediate positioning section having a rear connecting portion to contact the base connecting region and a forward connecting positioning location to connect to the panel at a forward panel connecting positioning location. The intermediate positioning section has a linking axis extending between the rear connecting positioning location and the panel connecting location. The panel is rotated about the main axis of rotation and the intermediate positioning section changes its angular position relative to the base positioning section to cause the tilt angle of the panel to change to track the sun.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2006Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Inventor: Anthony R Thorne
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Publication number: 20100212654Abstract: It includes at least one module with a concave reflecting mirror surface which concentrates the light radiation towards certain devices in order to then obtain electrical or other type of energy. It also includes means for orienting that mirror surface according to the position of the sun. It is characterised in principle in that each module comprises a thin lightweight laminar body with an arched structure which incorporates the concave mirror surface, this laminar body being associated with certain stiffening supports which stabilise and stiffen that arched structure in order to maintain this shape, said structure being supported on some ground with the interposition of guide means by which the arched structure at least tilts towards one side or the other depending on the light sensor or timer which activates a device that positions each module in real time with the required orientation according to the position of the sun.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2008Publication date: August 26, 2010Inventor: José Javier Alejo Trevijano