Abstract: A method and apparatus for deploying a group of panels. An apparatus comprises a group of panels in a folded configuration against a side of a spacecraft, a group of flexible members connected to the group of panels, and an interface system associated with the group of panels and the group of flexible members. The interface system is configured to move the group of panels from the folded configuration to a deployed configuration when the group of flexible members is extended from the spacecraft.

Abstract: Methods and system for alerting a vehicle driver via wireless communications. One or more conditions with respect to a vehicle are monitored. A change in the condition can be detected and a signal automatically and wirelessly transmitted to a computing device, wherein the signal is indicative of the change in condition(s). The driver is then alerted to the change in condition(s) in response to transmitting the signal to the computing device (e.g., a tablet computing device, smartphone, smartwatch, other wearable device, in-vehicle system, etc.) associated with the driver and/or a vehicle passenger.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method of fabricating a solar cell panel in an automated process by applying an adhesive pattern to a support, positioning a solar cell assembly over the pattern, and applying pressure to adhere the assembly to the support.

Abstract: A solar module comprising at least a plurality of lamellar solar panels, which are mounted pivotably, about a common axis, on an elongate support and can be and which can be moved between a first position, in which they are disposed on top of each other substantially congruently and parallel to the support, and a second position, in which they lie substantially next to each other in a fanned out manner about the aforementioned axis, wherein the support can be pivoted out of a housing, which accommodates the support together with the solar panels in the first position of the panels, characterized in that the solar module comprises two supports of the aforementioned type equipped with solar panels in the manner described, wherein the two supports are pivotably hinged at the diametrical longitudinal ends of an elongate base support, which is mounted rotatably, about an approximately vertical axis, in the housing.

Abstract: A point of sale system including a compartment array for dispensing objects. Each compartment of the compartment array preferably includes a door and a latch mechanism for opening each door. In a preferred embodiment, the latch mechanism includes counterbalanced wires of shape memory alloy material that function as an actuator for opening the door of each compartment in response to selection of an object in that compartment.

Abstract: An apparatus for the purpose of power generation by collecting or reflecting light using a foldable surface for compact transport, comprising of a circular surface divided into sectors, which in a closed folded position each sector is drawn closed by elevating a radius on one side of the sector on a pivot along the radius, and which in an opened position is held rigid by both radial and circumferential support.

Abstract: A waveguide for use in solar power systems to capture sunlight without solar tracking. The waveguide includes a first transparent layer with a first surface receiving sunlight, and the waveguide includes a second surface, opposite the first surface of the first layer, including recessed surfaces (or “microstructures”) each defined by sidewalls extending from the second surface toward the first surface of the first layer. The waveguide includes a second layer of transparent material with a first surface proximate to the second surface of the first layer for receiving a portion of the sunlight transmitted through the first layer. The second layer has a second surface, opposite the first surface, including recessed surfaces of the same or differing shape, size, location, and orientation as those of the first layer. The recessed surfaces of the first and second layers capture sunlight of differing ranges of incidence angles with total internal reflection (TIR).

Abstract: A modular deployable structure that includes at least two panels, one of which is configured to be pivotably attached to a further structure for deployment therefrom and return thereto. Interfaces pivotably interconnect each two panels, and are in the form of a pin clevis joint arrangement. Dogbone links are pivotably attached to the interfaces to effect pivoting of the panels. Linkage members extend adjacent to the panels and are pivotable relative to the dogbone links. The linkage members pivotably interengage one another, for example via gears. A drive mechanism effects pivoting of one of the linkage members to in turn effect synchronized pivoting of all of the linkage members and the panels.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for radiant energy transfer has at least one radiant energy transfer panel (20) having a light-energy transfer surface (21) and a back surface (23). The back surface has a panel electrode (42) for an electrical connection with the at least one radiant energy transfer panel. The panel electrode is conductively coupled to a first member of a separable flexible conductive fastener. A second member of the separable flexible conductive fastener has a power connection electrode. The power connection electrode is conductively coupled to a power device (12). Mechanically engaging the first and second members of the separable flexible conductive fastener connects the panel electrode on the at least one radiant energy transfer panel to the power connection electrode.

Abstract: A directionally-controlled roll-out elastically deployable solar array structure is disclosed. The structure includes one or more longitudinal elastic roll out booms that may be closed section or open section to allow for efficient rolled packaging onto a lateral mandrel. A flexible photovoltaic blanket is attached to a tip structure and to a lateral base support structure, but remains uncoupled from the longitudinal booms. The solar array system may be stowed simultaneously into a rolled package comprised of the roll out booms and the flexible planar blanket together, or onto independent rolls. Alternatively, the system may be stowed by rolling the booms, and accordion Z-folding the hinged flexible photovoltaic blanket into a flat stack. Structural deployment is motivated by the elastic strain energy of the roll out booms, and several methods of deployment direction control are provided to ensure a known, controlled, and unidirectional deployment path of the elastically unrolling booms.

Abstract: A portable photovoltaic device comprised of photovoltaic sections separated by one, or more, hinges and that provides for the photovoltaic sections to be collapsed or expanded for the alternative purposes of transportation or charging.

Abstract: A method of concentrating directional radiant energy using reflective optics and receivers that convert that energy wherein the receivers are situated in the body of the reflector on risers parallel to the direction of radiant energy, each said riser bounded by at least one parabolic mirror lying closer and another lying farther from the energy source, where the focus or foci of said mirrors lie substantially in the direction faced by the receiver situated in said riser. The reflector geometries include ones in which the mirrors are parabolic cylinder sections and require only one-axis tacking to focus, and ones in which the mirrors are paraboloid sections and require two-axis tracking to focus sunlight.

Abstract: A system includes an energy storage device, a power generator, and a controller. The energy storage device is operable to power a load. The power generator is operable to charge the energy storage device. The controller is operable to generate an energy storage metric representing a quantity of energy stored in the energy storage device over a first time interval and adjust at least one power consumption characteristic of the load for a second time interval based on the energy storage metric.

Abstract: A deployable photovoltaic array comprising a plurality of photovoltaic modules attached to a collapsible support unit, where said support unit is made up of a pair of laterally spaced similar pantographs. Each pantograph has the form of a plurality of interconnected rhombs made by pivotally joined elongated arms. Two opposite sides of each solar module are attached to a pair of corresponding nearest parallel arms on the opposite sides of said pantographs. Said array in its deployed condition for large solar elevation angles acquires a characteristic staircase-like form. Angles of said rhombs may further be adjusted to achieve an optimal inclination of said solar modules with respect to the current direction to the sun. In the stowed configuration said array may be held in a protecting container, and is readily portable.

Abstract: A structure capable of folding into a compact form for transporting, and for simple unfolding for attachment to a base, the structure including: two or more hingably interconnected solar panel arrays each having a two or more of solar panels, a solar panel support channel, and a support beam; wherein the two or more solar panels are attached to top portions of the solar panel support channel, and a bottom portion of the solar panel support channel is attached to a top portion of the support beam, the support beam having a hinged joint for cooperating in folding into mutual, near coplanar juxtaposition; and where the structure, when unfolded includes a solar canopy and is T-shaped viewed on end.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a photovoltaic module including: a first electrode formed on a substrate; a photoelectric conversion layer formed on the first electrode; a second electrode formed on the photoelectric conversion layer; and a light transmitting back substrate disposed over the second electrode. The photovoltaic module has a color within a range of a*: ?25˜0, b*: 10˜50, L*: 20˜50 in Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) LAB color coordinate.

Abstract: A roof panel having an integrated photovoltaic module is described. The roof panel has at least a substrate and an outer panel, which are laminarily bonded to each other by means of a thermoplastic layer, wherein a photovoltaic layer system is embedded in the thermoplastic layer and the substrate contains at least one polymer.

Abstract: A folding photovoltaic mounting structure and mounting method thereof is disclosed. A folding module, comprising: a panel having a front side and a backside; a first support block and a second support block disposed on the backside of the panel adjacent to two sides of the panel respectively; and a first support member and a second support member, the first support member connected with the first support block via a first hinge, and the second support member connected with the second support block via a second hinge, wherein the first support member and the second support member can fold and rotate about the first hinge and the second hinge respectively.

Abstract: A solar cell module that includes: a plurality of cylindrical solar cells; and a retaining member configured to retain each of the cylindrical solar cells and couple the cylindrical solar cells together. The retaining member separates the cylindrical solar cells away from each other, and allows any of the cylindrical solar cells to be displaced relative to adjacent one of the cylindrical solar cells.

Abstract: A solar concentrator has frame members connected together to form a framework, and a flexible sheet attached to the framework such that the flexible sheet takes a loose shape and can flex in response to shaping forces exerted thereon. The sheet has a reflective surface located between the frame members. A shaping force system is operative, when activated, to exert the shaping forces on the sheet, the shaping forces configured to draw the sheet from the loose shape into a desired shape such that solar rays striking the reflective surface are focused on a target, and a solar energy receiver is attached to the framework at a location corresponding to the target. Thin wall tubing filled with pressurized air can provide strong light frame members. When the shaping force system is deactivated, the flexible sheet reverts substantially to the loose shape.

Abstract: The present invention relates to modular portable energy systems, specifically solar energy systems or kits. In a first embodiment, a personal solar kit is provided. A portable shelter system with power generation capabilities is provided in a second embodiment. In a third embodiment, alternative power generation systems are provided. A multi-layered solar power generation device is provided in a fourth embodiment. In a fifth embodiment an energy network system is provided that can be used with any of the previous embodiments of the present invention.

Abstract: A mobile solar power system provides electricity to various electronic devices needing a source of electricity in remote locations. The mobile solar power system may be transported in a compact form to a remote location by a trailer configured for securely transporting the mobile solar power system. Arrays for containing solar panels may be attached to the mobile solar power system. When a user is ready to deploy the solar panels of the various arrays, the arrays may be slid out from the mobile solar power system and/or unfolded from the mobile solar power system. After the arrays are deployed, the arrays including solar panels may be angled such that the solar panels may be exposed to solar energy which may be subsequently passed through to the various electronic devices needing a source of electricity.

Abstract: A photoelectric conversion element includes a photoelectric conversion layer to include a first metal layer, a semiconductor layer, and a second metal layer, all of which are laminated. In addition, at least one of the first metal layer and the second metal layer is a nano-mesh metal having a plurality of through holes or a dot metal having a plurality of metal dots arranged separately from each other on the semiconductor layer. The photoelectric conversion layer includes a long-wavelength absorption layer containing an impurity which is different from impurities for p-type doping and n-type doping of the semiconductor layer. The long-wavelength absorption layer is within a depth of 5 nm from the nano-mesh metal or the dot metal.

Abstract: A variety of methods for fabricating organic photovoltaic-based electricity-generating commercial aircraft fuselage surfaces are described. In particular, a method for fabricating curved electricity-generating commercial aircraft fuselage surfaces utilizing lamination of highly flexible organic photovoltaic films is described. High-throughput and low-cost fabrication options also allow for economical production.

Abstract: A variety of methods for fabricating organic photovoltaic-based electricity-generating military aircraft fuselage surfaces are described. In particular, a method for fabricating curved electricity-generating military aircraft fuselage surfaces utilizing lamination of highly flexible organic photovoltaic films is described. High-throughput and low-cost fabrication options also allow for economical production.

Abstract: In the case of a photovoltaic module which comprises a plurality of solar cells which are each coupled to an electrically conductive, structured layer for discharging the electrical energy generated in the solar cells, wherein at least two subregions of the photovoltaic module are coupled to one another via a flexible connecting region, provision is made for the solar cells to be coupled on the rear side of said solar cells to the electrically conductive, structured layer, and for the electrically conductive, structured layer to be integrated in a multilayered film arranged on the rear side of the solar cells, wherein the multilayered film forms the flexible connecting region between the at least two subregions of the photovoltaic module, as a result of which a photovoltaic module which can be tilted or folded can be made available.

Abstract: A solar panel storage and deployment system includes a container with an opening formed therein and an assembly of solar voltaic panels transitionable between a folded state and a deployed state. The assembly defines a series of accordion-like folds along the length thereof when in its folded state. The assembly arrays the panels in a substantially planar arrangement when the assembly is in its deployed state. The system also includes at least one stake adapted to be anchored to a position in proximity to and outside of the container. At least one link is provided for coupling an end of the assembly to the stake(s) when the assembly is in its deployed state.

Abstract: A solar panel mounting system includes first and second mounting supports, at least one having a lower mounting ledge, and at least the other having an upper mounting ledge. At least two brackets each have a first platform coupled to the lower mounting ledge and a second platform spaced apart therefrom. Each bracket includes a first hinge portion with a curved channel and a first catch. A first frame, at a first end, has a panel gripping portion for gripping an edge of a solar panel oriented generally parallel to the lower mounting ledge, and at an opposing second end has a second hinge portion with a flange and a curved hook extending therefrom. The first hinge portion is configured to rotatably receive the second hinge portion. The hook is received in the channel and retained by the first catch and the flange is supported on the second platform.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a foldable array of three-dimensional panels, which may include one or more functional electrical components. For instance, the three-dimensional multi-panel array may be reconfigured from a substantially planar configuration into a three-dimensional configuration.

Abstract: A frame for mounting a plurality of solar tracking units is provided. The frame comprises a plurality of leg assemblies interconnected by trusses to provide a stable structure that is ballasted by the frame's own weight, rather than relying on external ballast such as concrete blocks. Each leg assembly is provided with a shaft with a mounting end for mounting a solar tracking unit. Each solar tracking unit includes an armature assembly and at least one motor for controlling the orientation and position of a solar panel mounted thereon. Solar tracking assemblies, each comprising the frame and plurality of solar tracking units, can be assembled in an array using connectors spacing the assemblies, thus providing enhanced stability. Each of the assemblies can be provided with a local control unit for controlling each individual solar tracking unit, and a global control unit may be used to control the local control units.

Abstract: A solar energy collecting panel includes a support substrate and one or more solar energy receiving surface disposed on the support substrate. The panel is mountable to extend in a mounting plane across an underlying structure. The support substrate is configured so that when the panel is mounted to the underlying structure at least a portion of the solar energy receiving surface is at an inclined angle to the mounting plane.

Abstract: A foldable, portable, lightweight photovoltaic module has a carrier layer divided into equal sections separated by hinge spaces, a substrate layer on the carrier layer, and a photovoltaic cell layer on the substrate layer, wherein the hinge spaces each have a free space between opposing edges of the adjacent sections to enable them to be folded in accordion-like fashion for storage. The carrier layer may be made of rip-stop fabric and preferably supports 6 sections each with 6 PV cells of crystalline silicon of up to about 22% conversion efficiency. The module has a power output of about 122 watts at 24 volts, and weighs about 7.4 pounds (3.36 kg), with a power-to-size ratio of 14 watts/sft or more, and a power-to-weight ratio of 16.5 watts/pound or more. An improved method of lamination applies heat and pressure on upper and lower sides of the laminate layers through upper and lower chambers with respective pressure bladders and heaters that are independently controllable.

Abstract: A solar module comprising at least a plurality of lamellar solar panels, which are mounted pivotably, about a common axis, on an elongate support and can be and which can be moved between a first position, in which they are disposed on top of each other substantially congruently and parallel to the support, and a second position, in which they lie substantially next to each other in a fanned out manner about the aforementioned axis, wherein the support can be pivoted out of a housing, which accommodates the support together with the solar panels in the first position of the panels, characterized in that the solar module comprises two supports of the aforementioned type equipped with solar panels in the manner described, wherein the two supports are pivotably hinged at the diametrical longitudinal ends of an elongate base support, which is mounted rotatably, about an approximately vertical axis, in the housing.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a mobile generator device (1) having at least one alignable solar panel (2a, 2b), wherein the solar panel (2a, 2b) can be moved in a transport position (TP) and at least one operating position (BP). The invention is characterized in that the generator device (1) has a housing shell (3a) with a peripheral area (4), wherein the solar panel (2a) is hinged to the housing shell (3a) so that the solar panel (2a) is in the transport position (TP) within the housing shell (3a) and does not project over the peripheral area (4). Moreover, the invention relates to a cooling system having the mobile generator device (1) according to the invention and a control, and a cooling device, in particular a freezer, having at least one cooling circuit, wherein the cooling circuit has a compressor, an evaporator, and a condenser.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a covering system for building windows or facades. Particularly said covering system comprises at least a modular element, wherein said modular element comprises a multiplicity of photovoltaic modules (10), in particular DSSC photovoltaic modules, and each photovoltaic module (10) comprises at least a cell (1) and at least a substrate (2) made of rigid and transparent material, Said photovoltaic modules (10) are disposed sequentially and hinged to each other by hinging means (7), such that the same can be moved from a first closed position, wherein said photovoltaic modules (10) are mutually bellows folded, to a second opened position, wherein said photovoltaic modules (10) are substantially placed mutually side by side and substantially aligned, or vice versa.

Abstract: A self-assembly nano-composite solar cell comprises a substrate, a first electrode layer, a composite absorption layer and a second electrode layer. The first electrode layer is formed on the substrate. The composite absorption layer is formed over the first electrode layer and includes a plurality of vertical nano-pillars, a plurality of gaps each formed between any two adjacent nano-pillars, and a plurality of bismuth sulfide nano-particles filled into the gaps and attached to the nano-pillars. The second electrode layer is formed over the composite absorption layer. Through etching and soaking in solutions, the composite absorption layer with nano-pillars and bismuth sulfide nano-particles is fabricated to form a self-assembly nano-composite solar cell having high power conversion efficiency.

Abstract: An assembly for positioning photovoltaic panels on a structure includes a main frame connectable to the structure, and a subassembly connectable to the main frame to support a photovoltaic panel, in which the subassembly is rotatable with respect to the main frame to place the subassembly in a deployed position. The assembly may further include a stop-arm connectable to the main frame to support the subassembly when in the deployed position.

Abstract: An anchoring device for panel supporting structures, which comprises at least one tension element (6) which is adapted to act on a supporting frame (2), which supports at least one panel (3) and rests on a resting surface (4). Means being further provided for tensioning the tension element (6) and means (7) for connecting the tension element (6) to the supporting frame (2) adapted to transmit at least partially the tension forces of the tension element (6) to the supporting frame (2) along a direction that has at least one component substantially perpendicular to the resting surface (4).

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for automatically or remotely rendering a solar array safe during an emergency or maintenance. A watchdog unit is disclosed for monitoring a signal from a central controller. If the signal is lost, interrupted, or becomes irregular, or if a shutdown signal is received, then the watchdog unit can shutdown one or more solar modules. Shutting down a solar module can mean disconnecting it from a power bus of the solar array or lowering the solar module voltage to a safe level.

Abstract: Technologies related to a photovoltaic array apparatus are generally described. In some examples, the apparatus may comprise a central hub, adjustable length struts, and a plurality of photovoltaic segments coupled to the central hub and struts. The photovoltaic segments may be selectively positioned between a stowed arrangement and a deployed arrangement by operation of the central hub and/or struts. In the stowed arrangement, the photovoltaic segments may be stacked, and in the deployed arrangement, the photovoltaic segments may be azimuthally displaced about the central hub. A control system coupled to the struts may be configured to control the struts to dynamically orient the photovoltaic segments so as to maximize, or otherwise adjust, power collected from incident radiation.

Abstract: The present invention is premised upon a method of producing two or more thin-film-based interconnected photovoltaic cells comprising the steps of: a) providing a photovoltaic article comprising: a flexible conductive substrate, at least on photo-electrically active layer, a top transparent conducting layer, and a carrier structure disposed above the tap transparent layer; b) forming one or more first channels through the layers of the photovoltaic article; c) applying an insulating layer to the conductive substrate and spanning the one or more first channel; d) removing the carrier structure; e) forming an addition to the one or more first channels through the insulating layer; f) forming one or more second channels off set from the one or mom first channels through the insulating layer to expose a conductive surface of the flexible conductive substrate; g) applying a first electrically conductive material to the conductive surface of the flexible conductive substrate via the one or more; second channels; h)

Abstract: The Solar Balloon Photovoltaic Array is comprised of a solar balloon supporting and lifting an array of very thin, light weight, and flexible solar photovoltaic sheet array which is attached to an electrical wire cord tethered to the solar balloon at one end, and securely tied to a structure on the ground surface at the terminal output end. The solar balloon is deployed into the atmosphere by the heating of the air inside the solar balloon by direct sunlight as well as by an electrical heating element inside the solar balloon. The solar balloon is first partially inflated on the ground surface and then fully inflated by solar energy heating the air inside the balloon, which fully inflates the solar balloon to provide sufficient buoyancy lifting force to lift the solar array into the sky, forming a vertical solar photovoltaic array to provide solar generated electricity for household consumption.

Abstract: The dual axis solar tracker apparatus and method uses an azimuth actuator to adjust the azimuth of an attached solar panel and an elevation actuator to adjust the elevation of a panel seat holding the solar panel to track the azimuth and elevation of the sun as it moves through the sky. The panel seat rotatably supports the solar panel with two pins, and a support structure supports the panel seat with an elevation tracking pivot. The actuators are controlled with an actuator controller circuit that is controlled by a microcontroller. The microcontroller uses information about latitude, longitude, time of day and date to control the actuators and track the motion of sun without the need for sensors.

Abstract: Extensible solar arrays configured to support one or more rollable solar panel units and that feature yoke segments and array segments that are configured to be stowed with their long axes substantially parallel to a spacecraft's roll axis. The yoke segments and array segments may be transitioned to a deployed configuration where the yoke segments are substantially perpendicular to the position the yoke segments were in in the stowed configuration, and the array segments are substantially perpendicular to the yoke segments. Some implementations of the extensible solar arrays may also include a rigid solar panel supported by one of the yoke segments.

Abstract: A solar module includes a first supporting element, a first clamping assembly, a first pivotal member, and a frame. A first fixing hole of the first supporting element has a first and second dented portions. A first angle is formed between two connection lines respectively connecting the apexes of the first and second dented portions to the center of the first fixing hole. A second fixing hole of the first clamping assembly has a third and fourth dented portions. A second angle is formed between two connection lines respectively connecting the apexes of the third and fourth dented portions to the center of the second fixing hole. The pivotal member is pivotally connected to the first and second fixing holes. A protruding portion of the pivotal member can be engaged with the first and third dented portions or with the second and fourth dented portions.

Abstract: A foldable, portable, lightweight photovoltaic module has a carrier layer divided into equal sections separated by hinge spaces, a substrate layer on the carrier layer, and a photovoltaic cell layer on the substrate layer, wherein the hinge spaces each have a free space between opposing edges of the adjacent sections to enable them to be folded in accordion-like fashion for storage. The carrier layer may be made of rip-stop fabric and preferably supports 6 sections each with 6 PV cells of crystalline silicon of up to about 22% conversion efficiency. The module has a power output of about 122 watts at 24 volts, and weighs about 7.4 pounds (3.36 kg), with a power-to-size ratio of 14 watts/sft or more, and a power-to-weight ratio of 16.5 watts/pound or more. An improved method of lamination applies heat and pressure on upper and lower sides of the laminate layers through upper and lower chambers with respective pressure bladders and heaters that are independently controllable.

Abstract: Textile systems and components for establishing electrical characteristics of textiles. The textiles incorporate charge carrying components, such as photovoltaic components, in contact with highly conductive bus conduits to improve electrical properties without compromising physical characteristics of the textiles. Structure, geometries, and methods are provided for textile constructs, including photovoltaic textile constructs.

Abstract: Disclosed is a portable and compact hybrid power unit for ready to use, plug-in power for nearly any environment. Open Energy System (OES) is self-contained in a durable shell that can be deployed almost anywhere in the world. The OES transforms from a rugged box into an energy generating unit with all equipment assembled and ready to generate power. Pre-assembled solar modules can slide out from the opening sides of the unit along a rolling channel, lock into place and open into a ready-to-generate solar electric array. In addition, the OES is mobile and transportable. It can hitch to a vehicle, be dropped in by helicopter, shipped in or used as a permanent unit. Further, the OES unit is designed to fit 5 to a standard shipping container and can be deployed using various shipping methods. From the military fighting around the world in rural and hostile areas to reaching disaster affected areas that are in need of crucial power, OES reaches those in need of clean electric power.

Abstract: A directionally-controlled roll-out elastically deployable solar array structure is disclosed. The structure includes one or more longitudinal elastic roll out booms that may be closed section or open section to allow for efficient rolled packaging onto a lateral mandrel. A flexible photovoltaic blanket is attached to a tip structure and to a lateral base support structure, but remains uncoupled from the longitudinal booms. The solar array system may be stowed simultaneously into a rolled package comprised of the roll out booms and the flexible planar blanket together, or onto independent rolls. Alternatively, the system may be stowed by rolling the booms, and accordion Z-folding the hinged flexible photovoltaic blanket into a flat stack. Structural deployment is motivated by the elastic strain energy of the roll out booms, and several methods of deployment direction control are provided to ensure a known, controlled, and unidirectional deployment path of the elastically unrolling booms.

Abstract: A mobile power system comprises a plurality of energy sources, wherein at least one energy source is a solar powered generating device and at least one energy source is a wind powered generating device; a plurality of electronic and telecommunications components configured to receive the power generated by the plurality of energy sources and/or convert the power generated to direct current power; a plurality of batteries configured to store the direct current power; and at least one transportable housing configured to hold the plurality of energy sources, the plurality of electronic and telecommunications, and the plurality of batteries during transport of the housing, and wherein the housing is configured to remotely operate the at least one solar powered energy device and the at least one wind powered generating device when the mobile power system is in operation.