Abstract: A light weight photovoltaic concentrator having a foldable, easily deployed structure for concentrating solar rays on solar cells for generating electricity is disclosed. The photovoltaic concentrator features a concentrator which can be inflated, for ease of deployment, to a shape for reflecting sunlight onto solar cells. The solar cells are protected from overheating by a protective infrared coating and by being attached to a heat pipe with a fin for radiating excess heat. The inflatable concentrator is inflated by gas stored in the central arm which supports one end of the concentrator. The concentrator is inflated until the epicenters of the front and rear surfaces reach a specified distance and the concentrator is thereafter maintained at this position by addition of additional gas as needed to compensate for leakage. The concentrator may have a means of stiffening the inflated reflective surface by chemical changes activated after the concentrator is deployed.

Abstract: A mantle or emitter used to illuminate a photovoltaic cell. In one embodit, a tubular mantle or emitter is made of a composite structure including a rare-earth material, such as ytterbium oxide, covering a porous ceramic, such as alumina or zirconia, formed on a metal or ceramic support mesh. A hydrocarbon fuel-air mixture is forced into the mantle causing combustion and the rare-earth material to heat up to incandescent temperature, creating a highly radiant selective emitting surface. In another embodiment, a tubular burner-emitter having a mantle surrounded by an inner and outer glass tube permits the preheating of air used for combustion within a toroidal gap formed by the inner and outer glass tubes. In another embodiment, a tubular burner-emitter is used in combination with hinged photovoltaic cells or solar panels so that the photovoltaic cells can be positioned around the burner-emitter so that electromagnetic radiation from the burner-emitter causes the photovoltaic cells to create electrical energy.

Abstract: A series of spacecraft designs (10, 42 and 52) for a Satellite Communication System is disclosed. One of the preferred embodiments of the invention called "Gearsat.TM." (10) comprises a hollow torus which inflates when it reaches orbit. When viewed from the side along its circumference, Gearsat (10) looks like two flattened pyramids sharing a common base. Phased array antenna panels (14) are deployed across the top of the pyramid along an exterior cylindrical surface (12), while twin arrays of solar cells (16) cover the slanted surfaces. The satellite (10) rotates about its center, and individual antenna panels (14) are spatially synchronized to transmit and receive signals from particular regions on the ground. An alternative embodiment, called "Batsat.TM." (42, 52), includes a central cylindrical body (B) and a plurality of substantially circular linked antenna and solar/thermal panels (A1-A9 and S1 and S2) which carry individual antennas (X) and solar/thermal surfaces (Y).

Abstract: A method of fabricating a three-dimensionally shaped photovoltaic device involves first forming a photovoltaic element on a flexible substrate, preferably while it is flat, and then deforming the substrate to achieve the three-dimensional shape. Preferably a crystalline photovoltaic conversion layer is first formed on the flat substrate, then the layer is cut or divided while leaving the substrate uncut to form a plurality of separate adjacent photovoltaic elements on the substrate, and finally the substrate is deformed into the three-dimensional shape. The cutting can be carried out by laser irradiation. The deforming can be carried out by providing a shape memory member as the substrate, or bonding a shape memory member onto the substrate, and then restoring the shape memory member to its previously memorized three-dimensional shape.

Abstract: A rigid panel solar array for a spacecraft. The layers of materials for the panels are selected and oriented to control the net coefficient of thermal expansion in the array's longitudinal direction. Some of the layers are discontinuous and softly coupled to the others by flexible adhesive materials. The panels are interconnected with hinge members which are positioned at appropriate locations and with appropriate degrees of freedom so that thermally induced transverse bending does not cause transverse motion of the center-of-mass of the panels.

Abstract: Discrete carrier and lattice structures are bonded together to form a lightweight rigid solar panel. The carrier includes a pair of electrically inert face sheets bonded on opposite sides of a thin thermoconductive honeycomb core. The face sheets provide an electrically inert surface for receiving a solar cell array and the honeycomb core forms a heat sink for conducting heat away from the solar cell array. The lattice includes a pair of patterned face sheets having a high elastic modulus bonded on opposite sides of a lattice base. The patterned face sheets provide axial stiffness and the lattice base separates them to provide bending stiffness. By splitting the solar panel into discrete carrier and lattice components, the present invention reduces the weight of existing solar panels by approximately 40% and increases power efficiency by approximately 10%.

Abstract: The invention provides method and apparatus for supplying electrical energy to battery powered equipment of the type utilizing removable batteries.

Abstract: A stowable and deployable concentrator for solar cells. A substrate mounts a row of solar cells. A row of Fresnel lens elements is mounted to the substrate so as to be deflectable toward the substrate in a stowed configuration and biased away from it in the deployed configuration. The Fresnel lens is linear and flexibly mounted in a shaper which shapes it to a proper curvature in the deployed configuration. A pair of these concentrators can be hinged together to form a conveniently stowed and readily deployed combination.

Abstract: A fiber optical solar power generating system provides a tower outside a structure to be supplied with solar energy and on which a multiplicity of collectors is provided. An optical fiber trunk carries the collected optical energy to the structure in which a photovoltaic and/or a light/heat transducing stack can be provided and to which light is distributed from the optical fiber trunk so that the transducers need not occupy large areas of the property.

Abstract: A portable power supply that includes at least one solar panel assembly that is capable of producing an electrical output through the conversion of solar energy to electrical energy. The power supply further includes power transmission means which is typically an electrical cable that will supply the power output of the solar panel to an electrical energy consuming device such as a portable computer or a battery for use therewith. The portable power supply further includes a case having at least two opposing side panels and includes solar panel assembly attachment means permitting the mounting of a solar panel assembly. The solar panel assembly typically comprises a photovoltaic panel attached to a backing panel. Backing panels utilized in the solar panel assembly may also be foldable, thus protecting the attached photovoltaic panel within the folded sections of the backing panel.

Abstract: A low concentration solar array for spacecraft and other uses which has a series of solar panels which can be deployed from a folded stowed configuration to a planar configuration. When the solar panels are stowed, the padding of reflector panels cushions and protects the solar panels from the stresses and vibrations of launch and space flight. Once the solar panels are extended into a deployed planar configuration, the reflector panels are raised to concentrate sunlight upon the solar panels. These reflector panels are constructed from rigid honeycomb substrates and therefore are the active structural members of the solar array, providing the structural rigidity for the solar array.

Abstract: An articulation arrangement connects individual elements of a folding structure which consists of two or more individual elements and is configured to be unfolded and locked in an unfolded position and swivellably disposed on a central body. The arrangement comprises two hinge parts each rigidly fastened at one of two adjacent individual elements and swivellable about a common hinge axle, a slotted disk provided with a slot and forming part of one of the two hinge parts, a lever swivellably disposed on the other of the two hinge parts and provided with a pin. The pin is configured and arranged such that, before the unfolded position is completely reached, the pin slides on an edge of the slotted disk and, in the completely unfolded position at which locking occurs, the pin is engaged in the slot.

Abstract: A stowable and deployable concentrator for solar cells, A flexible, springily resilient Fresnel lens is held in a frame whose relaxed condition holds the Fresnel lens as the linear fragment of a cylinder. When in this deployed shape, the Fresnel lens concentrates energy onto a strip of solar cells, The frame is springily mounted by support means, biased toward the deployed condition, and when the Fresnel lens and frame are pressed toward the cells, they tend to flatten toward a stowed condition.

Abstract: A stowable and self-deployable parallelogram-type panel array for solar cells. The array includes two sets of rigid panels, the panels of each set being hinged together, and the sets extending side-by-side along a central axis. The sets are foldable, and are pivoted together at their central points so as to form parallelogram-type structures. A respective yoke is hinged to each set to coordinate the movement of the sets. The yokes are hinged to a base on the opposite side of the axis from their respective set to provide greater structural stability and a higher first node resonant frequency. Deployment force is exerted by self-powered hinges, and are the only source of deployment force. The yokes are joined by gears to coordinate their rotation and thereby the stowing and deploying of the array.

Abstract: A base member for a roof is composed of a flexible high molecular material film and thin film solar cell modules formed thereon, and a finish member placed on the base member is a tile made of reinforced glass. The solar cell modules of 280 V output are sequentially formed with gaps on a long roll-shaped flexible film substrate and the substrate is cut in accordance with the size of the roof at the gaps between adjacent modules and placed on the roof board. The output terminals exposed at the cut gap portion are connected to each other or to an inverter.

Abstract: A retractable awning includes a weather protective articulated slat system for protecting the awning when in a retracted position with a solar cell panel incorporated into an articulated slat and connected to a battery for charging the battery.

Abstract: A flexible photovoltaic device includes a flexible substrate and a photovoltaic device body. The flexible substrate is a metal foil or film provided with an electric insulating layer of a material having an electric conductivity of not more than 10.sup.-7 (.OMEGA..cm.).sup.-1 at the time of light impinging and selected from a heat resistant polymer, a metal oxide, a crystalline or amorphous silicon compound and an organometallic compound.

Abstract: An assembly of an array of solar cells and a substrate blanket to which they are mounted. The blanket is woven from glass fibers and coated with a silicone. The blanket, because of its composition, is resistant to attack by atomic oxygen, flexible, a good electrical insulator, and a good thermal conductor.

Abstract: A solar cell array deployable from a folded flat triangular structure to a substantially circular deployed shape. A root spar supports a hub. The hub has an axis of rotation normal to the axis of the root spar. The hub drives a lead spar, and a plurality of intermediate spars rotate freely around the hub. A foldable gore is fitted between each pair of adjacent spars except between the root spar and the lead spar. Rotation of the hub in one direction folds the gores into a stack. Rotation in the opposite direction opens the gores to form tensioned membranes between the spars. A reversible power source drives the hub.

Abstract: A flexible encapsulated photovoltaic device is prepared by disposing photovoltaic devices on a sheet of thermoplastic material, disposing a front encapsulant material atop the devices, and disposing a bottom encapsulant layer so as to provide a multi-layered structure. The multi-layered structure is rolled under tension so as to compress the layers and the roll is heated to activate the thermoplastic material and bond the layers together. Additional layers may be interposed prior to rolling.

Abstract: A solar power operated computer comprised of an upper casing and a base pivoted together, the upper casing and the base each having a solar cell assembly respectively hinged thereto to collect the radiant energy of sunlight and convert it into electric power for charging respective storage batteries. The upper casing with its solar cell assembly may be detached from the base for independent use as a touch-control type or pen base computer.

Abstract: An arrangement for covering doors, windows or like type room closure devices having translucent regions, in particular a curtain or a roller blind, is provided, at the side thereof which faces towards the room closure device, with photovoltaic cells or a photovoltaic layer and the same is connected to a current storage means.

Abstract: A lightweight flexible photovoltaic (PV) blanket is attached to a support structure of initially stowed telescoping members. The deployment mechanism comprises a series of extendable and rotatable columns. As these columns are extended the P.V. blanket is deployed to its proper configuration.

Abstract: A photovoltaic electric power system for use in space. A self contained sun powered electric power generating system comprising a fresnel mirror array made up of a plurality of quadrilateral mirrors individually mounted on a generally flat supporting structure with the mirrors aimed at a common point above the structure, a photovoltaic array positioned at the common point by a movable strut mechanism, heat exchanger means at the PV array to draw excess heat therefrom, coolant lines from the heat exchanger means running through the struts to transfer heat to heat pipes configured as flat panels at the edges of and perpendicular to the supporting structure, and positioning means attached to a separate structure to enable the system to track the sun. The system is designed to fold into itself in the form of an elongate box for launch, maneuvering and protection.

Abstract: A deployable/retractable photovoltaic concentrator solar array assembly for space applications that includes a plurality of solar array panels that are carried by a pantograph arm arrangement that is deployable to position the panels in a predetermined canted arrangement for receipt of solar radiation. Each panel includes a plurality of spaced cylindrical off axis parabolic mirrors that concentrate the reflected light on a line that falls upon a series of photovoltaic cells arranged longitudinally along the back of each mirror. The cylindrical parabolic mirrors are aligned with the cylindrical axis perpendicular to the axis about which the panels are canted, so that such canting causes no loss of focus. The array panels may be hardened to resist perceived threats and the pantograph arm arrangement is operable to position the array panels in a preferred orientation according to the nature of the threat.

Abstract: An apparatus for rejecting waste heat from a system located on or near the lunar equator which utilizes a reflective catenary shaped trough deployed about a vertical radiator to shade the radiator from heat (i.e., infrared radiation) emitted by the hot lunar surface. The catenary shaped trough is constructed from a film material and is aligned relative to the sun so that incoming solar energy is focused to a line just above the vertical radiator and thereby isolate the radiator from the effects of direct sunlight.The film is in a collapsed position between side by side support rods, all of which are in a transport case. To deploy the film and support rods, a set of parallel tracks running perpendicular to length of the support rods are extended out from the transport case.

Abstract: A sun visor for motor vehicles is provided that can be pivoted about its upper longitudinal rim. On that side that in a folded-down position faces toward the outside, the sun visor is provided with solar modules that are connected to at least one storage cell disposed in a recessed portion on the inner side of the sun visor. A pivot mounting of the sun visor can be snapped into and out of a catching device on the vehicle so that current stored from solar energy while driving can also be used outside of the vehicle. The sun visor can be supplemented with additional sun shields of appropriate construction.

Abstract: A locking arrangement for unfoldable solar generators which consist of several panels provides a lockable, partially-unfolded, intermediate position and a lockable, completely unfolded final position. In the partially-unfolded position, a panel is pivoted by 90.degree. so that a lock pin which is acted upon by a radially inwardly directed spring force and which, at first, slides on an outer section of a curve of a guiding contour, locks into an opening of a curved slot in a guiding element having the guiding contour. During the transition into the fully unfolded position, a plate cam, which had stopped at first, is rotated so that its driving groove can accommodate the lock pin which can now continue to slide on an inner section of the curve into the final locking position.

Abstract: The improved solar collector of the present invention is constituted by a roof-shaped structure (1) serving as a support for a front and rear panels (2, 3), in the form of elongated rectangles having the same dimensions as the faces of the said structure (1), on which various solar energy collecting means are mounted, and whose top longitudinal edges are hinged to a common rotation axis coinciding with the ridge line of the structure (1).Combined with a support, this roof-shaped structure (1) forms an assembly which, by means of appropriate mechanisms, can move about a vertical rotation axis.The solar collector is also provided with two different orientation systems:the first system, operating in azimuth, enables the moving assembly to rotate about its vertical axis, with its plane solar collectors facing the sun.the second system, operating in elevation, enables the front and back panels (2, 3) to rotate about their common horizontal axis and keep the same inclinations, normal to the sun's rays.

Abstract: A solar collector panel arrangement includes a plurality of panels interconnected to form panel wings which in turn are secured in a symmetric fashion to a spacecraft, especially a satellite. At least the axially outermost panels forming the tip of a panel wing, are partially and/or fully foldable while the other panels of the wing are fully unfoldable. In the fully unfolded state of a wing all panels are located in a common plane in which also the system central axis is located. The two solar generator wings are so folded and structured or arrestable in certain positions that the entire center of gravity in the partially unfolded state remains in the same position as in the fully unfolded state and in the fully folded state.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved solar powered sign including one or more solar panels used to charge batteries which power various components of the sign. The sign may include a rotary display which is electrically powered and may also include a lamp. The sign may be mounted on a base facilitating easy transport.

Abstract: A system for securing deployable elements, such as solar panels, on a structure, such as a spacecraft, with the aid of a through rod. A mechanism is provided for releasing the through rod from the elements at the moment of deployment thereof, then for returning the rod into its initial position with respect to the outer element.

Abstract: An improved method for manufacturing solar cell tape including depositing a thin-film photovoltaic device on a flexible polymeric substrate, encapsulating the photovoltaic device with a layer of encapsulant, and applying a layer of adhesive to the substrate opposite the photovoltaic device. The improvement is characterized by selecting thickness of the substrate, layer of encapsulant and/or layer of adhesive as a function of their respective flexural moduli to locate a neutral plane of the electronic device near the photovoltaic device. Damaging stress on the photovoltaic device which may be caused when the electronic device is flexed can be reduced.

Abstract: A combination form of flexible roofing material including a reinforced single-ply membrane base for being adhered to the roof substrate. On the base is laminated a structurally flexible layer of solar cells encapsulated and sealed in a flexible intermediate layer of solar radiation transparent plastic protected by a cover layer of weather-proof solar transparent plastic. The roofing is constructed for being manufactured in elongate sheets, rolled up for transport to the site and installed by conventional methods including sealing to adjacent sheets of similar single-ply membrane material which may or may not incorporate solar cells. This is continued until the roof covering is complete. Examples are given for reinforced plastic sheet, modified bituminous sheet, and elastomeric sheet roofing materials as well as for a wide variety of solar cells materials together with methods for fabricating these materials into the roofing system disclosed.

Abstract: A substrate structure for lightweight, flexible solar cell arrays, in which a plastic substrate is provided with a structure for discharging accumulations of electrons on its rear face and has appropriate heat emmissivity properties. In one embodiment, a Kapton substrate layer is coated with a grounded aluminum layer, which is suitably painted for emissivity. In another embodiment, a poorly conductive Kapton substrate layer, impregnated with carbon, is used to dissipate the charge, and to provide the appropriate emissivity. In a third embodiment, a grounded VDA layer is sandwiched between two Kapton layers.

Abstract: A plurality of indexing brackets having indexing apertures are secured to a retractable boom in spaced relation. A like plurality of indexing bulkheads are hinged to a foldable panel array (or collapsible spiral antenna) at spaced hinge axes. The bulkheads have indexing prongs which engage the indexing apertures, the brackets pullings the bulkheads therewith as the indexing apertures and prongs engage. Force contact spring motors urge the brackets and bulkheads together in the engaged state. Alignment guides align the brackets and bulkheads during engagement and disengagement of the indexing apertures and prongs.

Abstract: A large area solar photovoltaic power module comprises a plurality of flexible large area solar panels interconnected by a flexible hinge. The module may thus be folded and subsequently rolled into a compact, stowable cylindrical configuration.

Abstract: A solar energy collector arrangement is comprised of a plurality of parallely arranged strip-like mirrors, preferably made of aluminum with a silver layer on a concavely curved surface and solar cells being arranged on the rear convexly curved surface, upon which the mirror next to the first mentioned one concentrates solar radiation. These mirror strips are suspended by means of cable inbetween two bars so as to change the orientation of them vis-a-vis the sun; the bars, in turn, are preferably pivotably connected to a telescopic mast, there being additionally guide cable for gathering the individual mirrors. The entire arrangement can be pulled together by pulling all mirrors in juxtaposed position and pivoting the transverse bars against the telescopic mast.

Abstract: A novel solar panel is disclosed which has a supporting substrate which is comprised of one or more plies of resin reinforced novoloid fabric.

Abstract: A photovoltaic array module incorporating a plurality of photovoltaic cell strips (11). Each cell strip (11) incorporates an electrically conductive substrate layer (21), a semiconductor body (22) deposited on the substrate layer (21), and a transparent electrically conductive layer (23) deposited on the semiconductor body (22). Each cell strip (11) further incorporates a preformed thin-film unitary grid and interconnect structure (20) electrically associated with the transparent electrically conductive layer (23) thereof so as to collect and remove electrical current therefrom and electrically to interconnect the cell strips (11). A first busbar (12) and a second busbar (13) are connected to the end cell strips (11) of the array to collect the electrical energy generated thereby.

Abstract: There is disclosed a substrate having thereon a layer of a semiconductor material, and a method for depositing and heating the semiconductor material on the substrate, wherein the substrate comprises a layer of organic polymer, a layer of metal or metal alloy, and a layer of dielectric material wherein the layer of dielectric material has a surface, remote from the metal, that is contiguous with the semiconductor material.

Abstract: A retractable power supply including a solar cell for converting incident radiation to electrical energy and a base member for (1) storing the solar cell when said cell is not operatively deployed and (2) supporting the solar cell when said cell is in an operative condition. A rechargeable battery pack may be included in the base member for storing electrical energy generated by the solar cell. In one particularly noteworthy embodiment, the solar cell may be employed as a retractable window shade.

Abstract: A space-based solar operated power module is configured for storage aboard a shuttle and then automatic deployment in the assigned orbit. It includes an articulated base support which is coupled to the ship's frame during deployment, and a chassis module, which also serves as a housing for electrical components of the power supply, and which is connected to the base support. A pair of oppositely extended foldable arms are movably mounted on the chassis sides and each carries an assembly of collapsible solar panels for converting incident radiant energy to electrical energy. The chassis also supports radiator panels which extend from the top of the chassis in the craft's vertical plane. At the start of deployment the shuttle's remote controlled cargo arm is used for lifting the chassis and its appendages from the hold of the ship.

Abstract: A solar powered vehicle utilizing incident solar radiation to charge storage batteries for energizing an electric motor mounted within the vehicle. The solar panel comprises a lower panel mounted on an exterior surface of the vehicle and first and second upper panels pivotally connected on opposed sides to the lower panel and movable between a first inboard position overlaying the lower panel and a second outboard position in-line with the lower panel in which the lower panel and the first and second upper panels are disposed for receiving incident solar radiation. The first and second upper panels are releasably interlockable with the lower panel in a secure, spaced-apart position when the first and second upper panels are disposed in the first inboard position overlying the lower panel. A plurality of solar panels may be provided on the roof, hood and/or trunk of the vehicle.

Abstract: A photovoltaic array module incorporating a plurality of photovoltaic cell strips (11). Each cell strip (11) incorporates an electrically conductive substrate layer (22), a semiconductor body (23) deposited on the substrate layer (22), and a transparent electrically conductive layer (24) deposited on the semiconductor body (23). Electrically conductive filaments (20) are alternately connected to contact points (31) on the electrically conductive substrate layer (22) of one cell strip (11) and to contact points (32) on the transparent electrically conductive layer (24) of another cell strip (11). A first busbar (12) and a second busbar (13) are connected to the end cell strips (11) of the array to collect the electrical energy generated thereby.

Abstract: An apparatus for making a photovoltaic module having a plurality of cell strips. The apparatus (10) includes a frame (11) and a support drum (25) rotatably received in the frame (11). The support drum (25) has a substantially curved surface (42) having a plurality of paired dowel guides (45) for registering cell strips (50) relative to the surface (42) and an interconnect mesh (36) relative to the cell strip (50). A plurality of paired complimentary clamp sets (51, 52) receive and secure the cell strips (50) and the interconnect mesh (36) to the support drum (25).

Abstract: A foldable solar cell panel apparatus has at least two panel portions which are connected together at a foldable edge to form at least one foldable pair which, in the folded-together state, is preferably stored in a panel container. A stationary folding and unfolding system brings the solar cell panel into the folded or unfolded state. During the folding process, the lowermost deployed foldable pair is folded together while the foldable pairs above it remain unfolded. The deployed foldable pairs are folded together individually in succession. During the unfolding process, the uppermost foldable pair stored in the panel container is unfolded while the fold pairs below it are held in the folded state. The stored foldable pairs are unfolded in succession during deployment.

Abstract: Several panels (5) having the same size and comprising a significant number of electrically interconnected photoelectric elements (2) are arranged side by side, separated from one another, in a compartmented folding pocket (1) open at one side and consisting of flexible insulating material. Each panel (5) is in electrical contact with connection strips (7, 12) incorporated in the material of the compartmented folding pocket (1), which extend along the longitudinal edges of the compartmented folding pocket (1) by means of solder strips (3, 4). The connection strips (7, 12) consist of a flexible metal fabric and form a series and/or parallel connection of the panels (5). Corresponding voltages at the associated currents may be tapped at contact elements (6, 6', 13, 14). At the same time, these elements mechanically hold in place the solder strips (3, 4) of the panels (5) with the connection strips (7, 12) and the material of the compartmented folding pocket (1).

Abstract: A solar powered refrigeration unit includes an array of solar cells connected in series-parallel configuration to produce more than 12 volts dc. One side of the array is grounded, and the positive output is connected through a diode to the positive terminal of a storage battery. The diode is configured to prevent the battery discharging through the solar cell array. The array is also connectd to one side of a back to back diode arrangement, the junction of which is connected through a thermocouple to a voltage controlled relay. The refrigeration unit compressor is connected to the relay, which is switched on by the thermocouple. The back to back diode arrangement permits the greater voltage of the solar cell array or the storage battery to power the compressor.

Abstract: A laminar plastics material sheet including a transparent, electrically conductive layer used to cover the front and/or rear surfaces of a spacecraft solar array to alleviate electrostatic charge build-up thereon due to electron bombardment.