Lightweight And Collapsible Or Foldable Patents (Class 136/245)
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Patent number: 8853528Abstract: A radio frequency transparent photovoltaic cell includes a back contact layer formed of an electrically conductive material, at least one aperture formed in the back contact layer, and at least one photovoltaic cell section disposed on the back contact layer. An airship includes one or more radio frequency antennas disposed in an interior of the airship. One or more radio frequency transparent photovoltaic cells are disposed on an outer surface of the airship.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2010Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: Daniel F. Sievenpiper, Michael Wechsberg, Fangchou Yang
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Patent number: 8845335Abstract: A device for the support of photovoltaic modules such that the tilt angles of the photovoltaic modules can be varied to modify the exposure of the photovoltaic modules to sunlight for the purpose of generating solar electricity. The device allows for the reversible attachment and detachment of photovoltaic modules, serves as the storage for the photovoltaic modules when the photovoltaic modules are detached, and is easily portable by a single person.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2010Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Inventor: Lisa Echeverria Benatar
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Patent number: 8839574Abstract: A pivoting solar panel device for an ISO cargo container preferably includes a base frame, at least two solar panel support frames and a plurality of solar panels. The plurality of solar panels are attached to the at least two solar panel support plates. The at least two solar panel support frames are attached to the base frame. The base frame preferably includes four structural angle members, four web truss members, four corner post toes and a plurality of web truss cross members. The pivoting solar panel support frame preferably includes a support plate, a hinge and a jacking device. A horizontal solar panel support frame preferably includes lengthwise and cross panel truss members and a support plate. An angled solar panel support frame preferably includes angled lengthwise and cross panel truss members and the support plate.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2013Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Inventors: Peter E. Gill, Peter E. Gill, III
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Publication number: 20140263844Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Hugh Quenten Cook, JR., Andrew R. Streett
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Publication number: 20140265996Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a solar folder. In one particular example, a solar folder comprises a solar module integrated into the side of a solar case. The solar module comprises solar cells mounted on a circuit board with power conditioning and monitoring integrated circuits, which are laminated between two sheets of polymers. The edges of the solar module are sewn with thread into side of the solar case. The solar case has a stiff flap that attaches at the bend of the solar case. The flap can be flipped to be on either side of the solar case. The flap can also be bent to form triangle support structure to prop up the solar case at a fixed tilt angle. The device can be charged wirelessly by induction through induction charging coils in the circuit board that support and integrate the solar cells.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventor: Derek Djeu
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Patent number: 8836157Abstract: A power generation device for a vehicle comprises a housing adapted to removably affix to a rear of a vehicle and a rotatable support member for rotatably supporting a first device, the rotatable support member operatively connected to the housing, wherein the first device includes rotor blades for producing electrical energy when exposed to a flow of air. Further, the rotatable support member is adapted to be articulated between a range from a first position, wherein the rotatable support member and the rotor blades of the first device are disposed within the housing, and a second position, wherein the rotatable support member and the rotor blades of the first device are disposed outside of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2011Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Inventor: Hoang Luu Vo
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Patent number: 8829330Abstract: In an example, a solar energy system includes multiple PV modules, multiple reflectors, and a racking assembly. Each of the reflectors is positioned opposite a corresponding one of the PV modules. The racking assembly mechanically interconnects the PV modules and the reflectors to form an interconnected system. The racking assembly defines gaps within the racking assembly and between adjacent PV modules and reflectors. The interconnected system includes multiple contact points associated with the gaps. The gaps and contact points configure the interconnected system to accommodate surface unevenness of an installation surface up to a predetermined surface unevenness.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2011Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Tenksolar, Inc.Inventors: Dallas W. Meyer, Lowell J. Berg, Lance E. Stover, Orville D. Dodd, Thomas L. Murnan
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Patent number: 8826608Abstract: The present invention provides for a modular, plug-and-play DC/AC compatible solar photovoltaic power system and mounting frames therefor, having inexpensive modular designs which require no or minimal penetration for rooftop installation and provide enhanced wind-induced position disruption protection.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2013Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Inventor: Chandramouli Vaidyanathan
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Publication number: 20140238464Abstract: An elongate photovoltaic (PV) module for use in a solar energy conversion plant for the production of electricity from incident light, the PV-module comprising a top portion with a support panel (G) carrying on a front side a plurality of electrically connected PV cells (D), and a transparent protective layer (A) sealed to the support panel (G) so as to encapsulate the PV-cells (D) between the support panel (G) and the protective layer (A), wherein prior to installation of the PV-module at the deployment site a collapsible portion of the PV-module is configured to be collapsible in a longitudinal direction by folding and/or rolling, wherein the collapsible portion includes at least the top portion, wherein the PV-module further comprises one or more integrated ballast chambers (I) in a bottom portion of the PV-module arranged on a rear side of the support panel (G), wherein said integrated ballast chamber (I) after installation of the PV-module at the deployment site contains an amount of a ballasting materiaType: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2012Publication date: August 28, 2014Applicant: SUNTUBE HOLDING APSInventor: Peter Christian Kjaergaard Vesborg
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Patent number: 8816187Abstract: This disclosure is directed to apparatuses, systems, and methods associated with the stowing, deploying, and deployment of a solar cell array. With reference to some exemplary embodiments this disclosure teaches apparatuses, systems, and methods directed to a solar cell array system that is a relatively lightweight, compact, and self-contained structure that securely stores, protects, and deploys the solar array. With reference to some exemplary embodiments this disclosure teaches apparatuses, systems, and methods for deploying a solar cell array that is held in the deployed configuration by self-contained compressive force and tensile force members such that no loads are carried through the solar cell panels.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2011Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Ray A. Stribling, Darren S. Cokin, Andrew R. Streett
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Patent number: 8816957Abstract: An electronic device including a display unit and a photoelectric conversion board is provided. The display unit includes a display surface and a back surface which are opposite to each other, and an edge of the photoelectric conversion board is rotatably connected to the back surface of the display unit. The photoelectric conversion board includes a substrate, a first photoelectric conversion unit, and a second photoelectric conversion unit. The substrate has a first surface and a second surface which are opposite to each other, the first photoelectric conversion unit is disposed on the first surface, the second photoelectric conversion unit is disposed on the second surface, and an absorption band of the first photoelectric conversion unit is different from an absorption band of the second photoelectric conversion unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2011Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Au Optronics CorporationInventors: Chun-Hao Tu, Kuo-Sen Kung, Jun-Hong Jan, Wei-Jhih Lian, Yu-Jung Liu, Fang-Hui Chan, Jiun-Jye Chang, Po-Lun Chen
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Patent number: 8814099Abstract: A Deployable Morphing Modular Solar Array (DMMSA) for deploying Deployable Morphing Modular Solar Power Assemblies (DMMSPAs) from a spacecraft is provided. The DMMSA comprises a Root Staging and Deployment Mechanism (RSDM) mounted to a spacecraft. A plurality of petal assemblies are rotatably secured to the RSDM with each petal assembly having at least DMMSPA secured thereon and each DMMSPA having a slight V-configuration. A launch restraint assembly stacks and sandwiches the petal assemblies prior to deployment with the launch restraint assembly pre-loading each petal assembly's one or more DMMSPA into a substantially flat configuration. Upon release of the launch restraint assembly, the stacked and sandwiched petal assemblies rotate relative to the spacecraft and each petal assemblies DMMSPA elastically morphs from the substantially flat configuration into the slight V-configuration.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2011Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: MMA Design, LLCInventors: Thomas Jeffrey Harvey, Toby Justin Harvey
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Publication number: 20140230882Abstract: A mobile power plant comprising a retractable flexible solar array structure comprising a plurality of thin film photovoltaic modules mounted on a flexible substrate; a spool attached to a portion of the flexible solar array structure and around which the flexible solar array structure can be rolled; power cabling integrated into the flexible solar array structure for transmitting power from the plurality of photovoltaic modules to the spool-end of the flexible solar array structure; a transportable container in which the spool is mounted, the transportable container being capable of housing the flexible solar array structure when it is in a rolled configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2013Publication date: August 21, 2014Applicant: Renovagen LtdInventor: John Hingley
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Patent number: 8793942Abstract: A PV assembly including framework, PV laminate(s), and a stiffening device. The framework includes a perimeter frame at least 10 feet in length and at least 5 feet in width. The PV laminate(s) are assembled to the perimeter frame to define a receiving zone having a depth of not more than 8 inches. The stiffening device is associated with the framework and is configured to provide a first state and a second state. In the first state, an entirety of the stiffening device is maintained within the receiving zone. In the second state, at least a portion of the stiffening device projects from the receiving zone. The stiffening device enhances a stiffness of the PV assembly in a plane of the perimeter frame, and can include rods defining truss structures.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2013Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: SunPower CorporationInventors: Charles Almy, Matt Campbell, Reuben Sandler, Brian Wares, Elizabeth Wayman
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Patent number: 8797719Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2012Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: Sundial Power Pods, LLCInventors: Eldon Prax, Stan Waldrop
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Patent number: 8791356Abstract: A photovoltaic a substrate having a plurality of individual serially connected solar cells defined thereon. A bus tape is applied along respective ones of said cells at generally opposite longitudinal ends of the substrate for collecting the charge generated by the plurality of solar cells. A conductive member is interconnected between the bus tapes and is disposed beneath the bus tapes and in direct conductive contact with the respective cells. A junction box is configured for delivering the generated charge to an external load or other component, with the conductive member connected to the junction box.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2010Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: First Solar, Inc.Inventor: Rajendra Rambhau Kabade
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Publication number: 20140190551Abstract: Solar power and other renewable energy systems are useful for generating electrical energy with no environmental effects. Example embodiments of the present invention provide for mobile transport of power generation systems, such as a solar power energy collection system, that can be transported via a mobile system, such as a truck, trailer, or railway transport system, and positioned anywhere the mobile transport system can travel to provide temporary or permanent energy producing capacity.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2014Publication date: July 10, 2014Applicant: French Development Enterprises, LLCInventor: William L. French, SR.
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Patent number: 8748729Abstract: The subject matter of this present invention is a rollable photovoltaic composite, used in particular for solar protection, which includes at least one flexible photovoltaic panel and at least one textile panel, on the outside face of which is laminated the said photovoltaic panel by means of a first connecting layer, characterized in that, in the transverse direction to that in which it is to be rolled, and at any level of the photovoltaic panel, it has a thickness that is more-or-less constant, including one or more zones of reduced thickness, the said thickness corresponding to the thickness of the textile panel possibly covered with a film on its inside face, and in that the width is no more than 8 centimeters, so as to eliminate the formation of folds during rolling or in the deployed position.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2009Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Dickson Constant S.A.Inventors: Christophe Nocito, Vladan Koncar, Laurent Raymond
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Patent number: 8735712Abstract: A system and method directed to using a PV array and laser beamed-power for aircraft and satellites is provided. More specifically, a system and method directed to a PV receiver that reduces power losses caused by variations in irradiance is provided. The use of a sloped array with a grooved cover glass coated with reflective coating allows the system and method to receive the laser beamed power at an angle and reduce any losses while producing a maximum power output. In addition, the use of capacitors in parallel with the PV cells in the array reduces resistive losses caused by short-term optical fluctuations and assists in maximizing power output for the array.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2006Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Brian J. Tillotson
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Patent number: 8729385Abstract: A interconnected arrangement of photovoltaic cells is readily and efficiently achieved by using a unique interconnecting strap. The strap comprises electrically conductive fingers which contact the top light incident surface of a first cell and extend to an interconnect region of the strap. The interconnect region may include through holes which allow electrical communication between top and bottom surfaces of the interconnect region. In one embodiment, the electrically conductive surface of the fingers is in electrical communication with an electrically conductive surface formed on the opposite side of the strap through the through holes of the interconnect region. The interconnection strap may comprise a laminating film to facilitate manufacture and assembly of the interconnected arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2013Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Inventor: Daniel Luch
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Patent number: 8723016Abstract: A low profile solar collector having a number of light collecting lenses that fit closely together as an array on a flexible sheet. The lenses may focus light onto optical conveyance mechanisms which convey light from the lenses to a light-to-electrical converter or converters at an edge of the sheet. The lenses may alternatively focus light onto a light-to-electrical converter or converters. Conductors may convey electricity from the light-to-electrical converters to an electrical connection block at an edge of the sheet. The flexible sheet may be rolled, folded, or form fitted onto a non-planar surface. Two or more low profile solar collectors having a number of collecting lenses may be combined to form a larger sheet for solar collection. The electrical outputs of the collectors may be connected to provide one or more outputs as desired.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2010Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Yue Liu
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Publication number: 20140125134Abstract: A mobile electricity generator comprising a telescopic boom, a first retractable support leg, and a base. The telescopic boom comprises a first end and a second end. A wind turbine is attached to the second end of the telescopic boom and the wind turbine is capable of transforming wind into electricity. The first end of the telescopic boom and the first retractable support leg are attached to the base. The electricity generator has a movable solar panel assembly that may be stored in the base and deployed to a use position and a pair of doors each equipped with a solar panel swing having solar panels. The mobile electricity generator can further comprise a battery in electric communication with the solar panels for storing the electricity.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 15, 2014Publication date: May 8, 2014Inventor: George Van Straten
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Patent number: 8704079Abstract: The object of the present invention is a photovoltaic windable composite comprising at least one photovoltaic cell, a textile panel and a bond layer providing a bonding between said at least one photovoltaic cell and said textile panel. Typically, the exterior side of the textile panel comprises at least two electrically conductive areas separated by a non electrically conductive area, and the bond layer comprises at least two electrically conductive areas emerging on the exterior and interior sides of said bond layer and separated by a non conductive area. Both conductive areas of the bond layer are arranged between the photovoltaic cell and the superior side of the textile panel in order that the positive and negative poles of said photovoltaic cell are in electrically conductive connection with both conductive areas of the textile panel.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2009Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Dickson Constant S.A.Inventors: Christophe Nocito, Vladan Koncar, Laurent Raymond
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Publication number: 20140096811Abstract: Photovoltaic generator comprising several flexible photovoltaic panels (1) assembled to one another. The photovoltaic panels are provided with hook-and-loop (Velcro) connectors that are electrically conductive and that secure both the electric connection between adjacent photovoltaic panels and their mechanical attachment.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2013Publication date: April 10, 2014Inventor: Daniele Oppizzi
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Patent number: 8692108Abstract: A solar power collecting device including a parabolic concentrating unit, a light-guide pillar positioned on the parabolic concentrating unit, a solar cell positioned on the light-guide pillar and a transmissive protection cap for covering the light-guide pillar and the solar cell is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2010Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: EPISTAR CorporationInventor: Tsung-Xian Lee
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Patent number: 8683755Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Deployable Space Systems, Inc.Inventors: Brian R Spence, Stephen F White
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Patent number: 8680391Abstract: A solar concentrator comprises a pair of concentric reflectors having a spindle toroid geometry for focusing the collected solar radiation into a ring-shaped focal area, as opposed to the “point” or “line” focus of prior art configurations. In a preferred embodiment, each reflector is formed of a plurality of curved petals that are disposed in a contiguous, keystone arrangement that requires no additional fixturing to hold the petals in place. Such an arrangement reduces the weight, complexity and cost of the final solar concentrator structure.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2010Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Assignee: Cewa Technologies, Inc.Inventors: John Stewart Fangman, Michael E. Fangman, John Matthew Fangman, Sudhakar Neti, Arati Shah-Yukich
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Publication number: 20140076378Abstract: 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 L-shaped viewed on end.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2012Publication date: March 20, 2014Applicant: Chevron U.S.A Inc.Inventor: Collin Hamilton
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Publication number: 20140076377Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2012Publication date: March 20, 2014Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventor: Collin Hamilton
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Patent number: 8674279Abstract: A dual axis motorized solar tracking device that can be rotated over 360° and wherein the solar array panel thereof can be tilted from 90° to 10° and wherein the motorized portions of said device is controlled by an internally contained computerized controlling system that is programmed to follow the path of the sun at the installed location thereof and also to adjust the system to allow for any problems in weather. The internally contained computerized controlling device is electrically actuated from a plethora of sources including a separate panel on the solar array dedicated to recharging an energy storage cell system that will power up the internally contained and computerized controlling system. Alternatively, other power sources external to the device may also be employed giving this system a unique ability to keep on running while charging the energy storage cell system under any circumstances. A lithium-ion battery can be used as the rechargeable battery system.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2009Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Concrete Systems, Inc.Inventors: AntoniBogdan Thel, Steven L. Clark
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Patent number: 8674211Abstract: A solar charging handbag for recharging electronic appliances such as cellular telephones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), digital cameras, and Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) players, MP3 players, gaming stations, and similar devices. A solar panel is connected to a charge control module and the electronic appliance is plugged into the charge control module. The charge control module may incorporate a rechargeable battery or battery pack.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2005Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Inventors: S. Jane Palmer, Marianne Fairbanks
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Patent number: 8667748Abstract: A photovoltaic module ground mounting system can include a collapsible photovoltaic module mounting assembly framework.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2010Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Assignee: First Solar, Inc.Inventors: Michael A. Belikoff, John Hartelius, Chris Mahn
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Patent number: 8664030Abstract: An interconnected arrangement of photovoltaic cells is achieved using laminating current collector electrodes. The electrodes comprise a pattern of conductive material extending over a first surface of sheetlike substrate material. The first surface comprises material having adhesive affinity for a selected conductive surface. Application of the electrode to the selected conductive surface brings the first surface of the sheetlike substrate into adhesive contact with the conductive surface and simultaneously brings the conductive surface into firm contact with the conductive material extending over first surface of the sheetlike substrate. Use of the laminating current collector electrodes allows facile and continuous production of expansive area interconnected photovoltaic arrays.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2012Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Inventors: Daniel Luch, Daniel Randolph Luch
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Patent number: 8664511Abstract: Solar module with a plurality of lamellar solar panels, which are mounted on an elongated support to pivot around a common axis and are movable between a first position in which they are superposed to be substantially congruent and parallel to the support, and a second position in which, opened out in a fan formation, they lie substantially adjacent to one another around the said axis, wherein the support can be extended via a closable opening out of a housing, which receives it with the solar panels in the first position.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2011Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Smart Flower Energy Technology GmbHInventors: Alexander Swatek, Christoph Schöndorfer, Elmar Stöger
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Patent number: 8658882Abstract: Concepts and technologies described herein provide for providing power to an electronic device mounted to a moving apparatus. According to various aspects, a flexible solar panel is detachably mounted to the moving apparatus. A light emitting diode (LED) array is mounted on a flexible circuit board and is configured to emit light at a color temperature range that matches the effective response of the solar panel. The LED array is shaped according to the surface of the moving apparatus and is positioned a uniform gap width apart from the solar panel. When the moving apparatus is activated, light from the fixed LED array is received by the moving solar panel and converted into electricity for powering the electronic device that is electrically connected to the solar panel. Data from the electronic device may be wirelessly transmitted from the moving apparatus to a fixed receiver for storage or use.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2009Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Philip J. Ballou
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Patent number: 8648247Abstract: A SolarTurf unit has a plurality of solar blades, each blade comprising a donor-acceptor conjugated polymer (DA-CP) disposed between and electrically contacting a working electrode and a counter electrode where at least one of electrodes is transparent and where the plurality of solar blades have like or different DA-CPs having like color or different colors, for example, green. The SolarTurf unit includes an interconnect strip having a first electrically conductive surface and a second electrically conductive surface separated by an insulator. The working electrodes are electrically connected to the first electrically conductive surface and the counter electrodes are electrically connected to the second electrically conductive surface. The SolarTurf units can be combined into a device for harvesting light energy to provide an electric output. The SolarTurf device can have the appearance of a lawn or other plant, fungi, rock, sand or animal.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2008Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: University of Florida Research Foundation, Inc.Inventors: Jiangeng Xue, Franky So, Kirk S. Schanze, John R. Reynolds
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Publication number: 20140028240Abstract: 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 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2012Publication date: January 30, 2014Applicant: EMPIRE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT LLCInventors: Michael C Heumann, Stephan R Heumann
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Patent number: 8636253Abstract: A rollable and accordion foldable refractive lens concentrator flexible solar array blanket structure assembly for a spacecraft/satellite application consisting of at least one or more rows of electrically interconnected solar cells and at least one or more rows of deployable elongated refractive lenses elevated and aligned from the top surface of the solar cells. The entire blanket assembly, inclusive of lenses and solar cell substrates, kinematically deploys by unrolling or unfolding the assembly for its stowed package configuration, and the final tensioning of the blanket assembly produces an aligned assembly where the solar cell substrate subassembly and the lens subassembly are coplanar. Deployment of the integrated blanket assembly (with refractive lenses) is directly coupled through the unrolling or the accordion unfolding deployment kinematics of the concentrator blanket assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2012Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Deployable Space SystemsInventors: Brian R Spence, Stephen F White, Kevin Schmid
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Publication number: 20140020731Abstract: A portable self-sustained power system including, a transportable platform, a plurality of solar array racking structures. The system includes a plurality of solar panels securely mounted upon said solar array racking structures thereby supporting the solar panels to form a plurality of planar solar arrays. The system further includes a plurality of hinge posts, each respectively connected near the corners of said transportable platform. The system further includes a plurality of solar array support frames, each of the solar array support frame vertically hinged to respective hinge posts, wherein the respective solar array support frame is capable of rotating at various angles around the vertical axis of the respective hinge post. The system further includes a plurality of horizontal hinges; each horizontal hinge rotatably interconnected between the solar arrays and the plurality support frames respectively, each respective hinge capable of rotatably positioning the respective solar array at various angles.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2011Publication date: January 23, 2014Inventors: Ofir Levi, Eyal Levi, Amnon Rogev, Lior Levi
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Patent number: 8616721Abstract: A solar awning system is provided with a spool housing containing a sheet of flexible solar light array material rolled into a spool within the spool housing. The spool is rotatably mounted for spooling and unspooling the flexible sheet to and from the spool housing. The spool housing may be attached to a wall or other object or mounted on supports to quickly provide a shaded and lighted region at a desired location. The flexible sheet is quickly retracted into the spool housing to pack up, whereupon the spool housing protects the flexible solar light array material for subsequent use.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2011Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Robert C. Woodall, Jr.
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Patent number: 8616502Abstract: A deployable solar panel assembly including a housing, a solar panel receivable in the housing, and first and second support structures disposed on the housing proximate the lateral edges of the solar panel. The first and second support structures each include an extension member connected to the housing and a pair of tethering members pivotably connected to the housing on opposite sides of the housing. The pair of tethering members are foldable against the housing and, upon deployment, a distal end of each tethering member projects outward from the opposite sides of the housing. The distal end of a deployed solar panel is supported in an extended position by the extension member, and supported against displacement out of the plane of the panel by tethers connected to the distal ends of the pair of tethering members. Spacecraft employing the deployable solar panel assembly and methods of deploying the assembly are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2010Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Ray A. Stribling, Allen D. Bakalyar
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Patent number: 8607510Abstract: A roof of a building is provided. The roof comprises a roof frame, a layer of curved roof cover elements (e.g., tiles) above the roof frame, and a solar panel secured to one or more of the roof cover elements. The solar panel substantially conforms to one or more curved surfaces of the one or more roof cover elements. Another aspect provides a roof comprising a roof frame, a layer of curved roof cover elements (e.g., tiles) above the roof frame, a vent member within the roof cover element layer, and a solar panel. The vent member has a curved surface and is sized and shaped to mimic the appearance of one or more of the roof cover elements. The vent member also has an opening allowing a ventilation airflow from the building interior toward an airspace above the vent member and the roof cover element layer. The solar panel is secured to and substantially conforms to the curved surface of the vent member.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2007Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Inventor: Gregory S. Daniels
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Patent number: 8609979Abstract: As the concentration of electromagnetic radiation, especially solar radiation, can be utilized for constructive purposes it becomes desirable to concentrate the radiation in an economical manner. An essentially fixed concentrating reflector whose shape is generated by gravity's effect on flexible members provides an efficient means to collect and concentrate radiation. Historically in optical science aberrations are to be avoided or eliminated, however this device utilizes the aberration of astigmatism. By taking advantage of the astigmatic foci created by obliquely incident radiation falling upon a substantially sphere-like primary, a comparatively large fixed concentrator can be constructed inexpensively. The resulting tangential and sagittal astigmatic foci are linear. The length of the astigmatic foci can be a substantial portion of the diameter of the concentrator, especially at times of lower solar elevation.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2011Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: Skysun, LLCInventors: James Joseph Clair, Victor George Weizer
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Publication number: 20130327371Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2013Publication date: December 12, 2013Applicant: Monarch Power CorpInventors: Joseph Y. Hui, Joseph W. Bostaph, Richard Howe
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Publication number: 20130319500Abstract: An electricity-generating fabric panel unit includes a panel of light-collecting fabric and an edge assembly disposed along an edge of the fabric panel and adapted to collect light from the fabric panel and convert it to electricity.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: December 5, 2013Inventors: Daniel Lee BIZZELL, Faramarz FARAHI, Jeremy Eric LOSAW, Raeshon Lamont MCNEIL, Kenneth C. PAULUS, Thomas James PHILPOTT, Juan Carlos PEREZ
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Patent number: 8593102Abstract: A self-sustaining, portable, power station that may be moved by land, air, or sea to an area that has no utilities. The station is provided with solar panel arrays in communication with at least one electrical distribution and storage means. The derived electricity is used to power various systems including, albeit not limited to, a communications system, a water filtration system, a water distribution system to allow the public to draw potable water and provide basic hygiene. The electricity derived may also be used to run outside systems, such as schools, hospitals, or the like. The solar panel arrays are mounted on roller assemblies that can be easily slide between a stowed and deployed condition. The solar arrays include a plurality of solar panels that are supported by one or more hydraulic actuators to counter balance the weight of the solar panel whereby the solar panel can be easily positioned into the desired tilted orientation.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2011Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Ecosphere Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Dennis McGuire, Sanjeev Jakhete
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Patent number: 8592672Abstract: A foldable solar energy collector has a base and a panel body. The base has an elevatable telescopic shaft mounted thereon. The panel body has a bottom board and multiple side panels pivotally mounted around a perimeter of the bottom board. Two foldable panels are respectively and pivotally mounted on two edges of each side panel. A link assembly is pivotally mounted between the panel body and the telescopic shaft and has multiple inside and outside links pivotally connected to each other. One end of each inside link away from a corresponding outside link is pivotally mounted on the telescopic shaft. One end of each outside link away from a corresponding inside link is pivotally mounted between adjacent two of the foldable panels. When the telescopic shaft is elevated, the link assembly is pulled to drive the panel body to unfold or fold, rendering convenience in operation and storage.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2012Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Leadinway Co., Ltd.Inventor: Raymond Chu
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Publication number: 20130298962Abstract: A portable modular solar energy generating system is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of modular photovoltaic solar panels that collect solar energy and convert the solar energy to DC power. Each modular panel also contains a micro-inverter for converting the DC power to AC power at the site of the solar energy generating systems. The system is foldable for easy transport to a remote location and can provide readily available electrical power at remote locations.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2013Publication date: November 14, 2013Inventor: Jerry Sorgento
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Patent number: 8581091Abstract: The invention relates to a method for production of a serial circuit of solar cells with integrated semiconductor bodies, a serial circuit produced thus and photovoltaic modules, comprising at last one serial circuit. The invention is characterized in that conducting bodies (20) and semiconducting bodies (30) are applied to an insulating support layer, according to a pattern, whereby said pattern provides at least one dividing line (21) of conducting bodies. The regions adjacent to the conducting bodies are provided with spherical or particle-shaped semiconducting bodies (30). Parts of the semiconductor bodies are removed and the support layer coated on the side with a back contact layer (50). The back contact layer of a semiconducting body is thus exposed, for example, and brought into contact with the back contact layer (50) of the solar cell. The other side of the support layer (10) is provided with a front contact layer.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2004Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Scheuten GlasgroepInventors: Volker Geyer, Patrick Kaas
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Publication number: 20130284234Abstract: A solar-cell-integrated roll screen having a high durability against winding/unwinding. The constituent material and thickness of each section of a solar-cell-integrated roll screen are determined so that the tensile strength in the winding direction is less than or equal to 75 MPa. The constituent material and thickness of each section of the solar-cell-integrated roll screen are also preferably determined so that the Young's modulus in the winding direction is equal to or less than 650 MPa.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2013Publication date: October 31, 2013Inventors: Katsuya FUNAYAMA, Yasuko Mizuno, Keishin Handa