Lightweight And Collapsible Or Foldable Patents (Class 136/245)
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Publication number: 20120103391Abstract: A standalone or partially standalone solar photovoltaic structure and methods for assembling the structure are described. The solar photovoltaic structure can employ a hinged photovoltaic roof deck that can be folded for transportation. Described are hinges that can be removed after assembly and act as protective elements to facilitate transportation. Also described is an attachment arrangement for joining purlin or frame members to vertical support columns by locking the frame numbers into column capitals.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2012Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: Phat EnergyInventor: Nicholas Brady Tucker
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Patent number: 8168883Abstract: An adjustable solar powerer having photovoltaic cells made of either silicon, polycrystalline or single-crystalline located on a stabilizing base converts solar power or artificial light into electric energy. This solar powerer is made up of unilateral flat and movable elements, each having unilaterally installed photovoltaic cells, these elements being connected with each other by a yoke and catch at one end, the yoke and pivot being connected to a tripod.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2009Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Inventor: Moses Clark
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Publication number: 20120090659Abstract: A portable assembly for supporting a plurality of solar panels may include a plurality of solar panels mechanically coupled to each other and configured to transform from an expanded configuration to a collapsed configuration. Each solar panel of the plurality of solar panels may include one or more solar cells. The expanded configuration may be a configuration in which an active surface of each solar panel of the plurality of solar panels is exposed. And, the collapsed configuration may be a configuration in which the active surfaces of the plurality of solar panels overlap. The portable assembly may also include connectors configured to removably electrically connect the plurality of solar panels together.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2011Publication date: April 19, 2012Inventors: David J. Muchow, Sara V. Zulkosky
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Publication number: 20120090660Abstract: Collapsible solar array structures are disclosed that include a collapsible structure and detachable solar array. The solar array can be detached stowed separately from the collapsible structure. The collapsible structure can include a plurality of longerons and/or support structures. Longerons can have a slit along a longitudinal length of the longeron.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2011Publication date: April 19, 2012Applicant: Composite Technology Development, Inc.Inventors: Philip N. Keller, Robert Taylor, Doug Richardson, Adam A. Gray
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Publication number: 20120085387Abstract: 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: September 8, 2011Publication date: April 12, 2012Applicant: French Development EnterprisesInventor: William L. French, SR.
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Patent number: 8146296Abstract: To provide an enclosure structure for a building, which can maintain a high power generation efficiency without formation of irregularities on the surface of the enclosure such as a roof, nor application of an external force to solar battery modules, and which can form a lightweight enclosure capable of photovoltaic generation. An enclosure structure for a building, comprising an outer film material made of a light transmitting material and arranged on the outer surface side of the building, an inner film material arranged along inside of the outer film material, an intermediate film material disposed between the outer film material and the inner film material, an air supply means for supplying air to the space between the outer film material and the inner film material, and solar battery modules 7 provided on the inner surface of the intermediate film material.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2010Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Asahi Glass Company, LimitedInventors: Kaoru Nishikawa, Takuya Nakao
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Patent number: 8148625Abstract: The present invention provides a solar cell sealing film having enhanced transparency. A composition for a solar cell sealing film contains an ethylene-polar monomer copolymer, a crosslinker and a compound having an alkyleneoxy group. Thereby a solar cell sealing film having excellent all light beam transmittance and enhanced transparency can be formed.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2007Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Bridgestone CorporationInventor: Hisataka Kataoka
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Publication number: 20120073624Abstract: The invention relates to an awning type solar protection device equipped with an electrical power production system, the device including a flexible panel, at least one photovoltaic panel arranged on the outer face of the flexible panel, a furling tube onto which the flexible panel is rolled and a system for tensioning the flexible panel during its deployment or its furling. According to the invention, the proximal edge of the flexible panel is fixed to the furling tube by forming around said furling tube a portion which cannot be unrolled. In addition, electrical connection means are arranged in the interior of the furling tube and pass through said furling tube on the portion of the flexible panel which cannot be unrolled, said electrical connection means being hooked up to the at least one photovoltaic panel at the proximal edge of the flexible panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2011Publication date: March 29, 2012Applicant: DICKSON CONSTANTInventors: Christophe NOCITO, Laurent RAYMOND, Francois BOUSSU
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Publication number: 20120073623Abstract: A solar module having a six layer stack structure, including the following layers: (i) first plastic layer (e.g., ETFE layer); (ii) second plastic layer (e.g., uppermost EVA layer); (iii) solar cell layer; (iv) third plastic layer (e.g., intermediate EVA layer); (v) fiber panel; and (vi) fourth plastic layer (e.g., lowermost EVA layer). This six layer module is detachably attached to a seventh layer of rip stop backing material layer (or other pliable fabric). Generally, many solar modules will be: (i) mechanically detachably attached to the larger flexible substrate member; and (ii) electrically detachably connected to each other. Sufficient space should be left between the modules on the substrate so that the substrate can be folded in the spaces between the modules.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2011Publication date: March 29, 2012Applicant: ENERGY MASTERS, LLCInventors: Hugh W. Jones, Evan H. Jones
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Patent number: 8145021Abstract: Disclosed is a cable for use in a concentrating photovoltaic module. The cable includes at least one strand wrapped with an optically pervious or reflective sheath. The pervious sheath is made of a material that exhibits a penetration rate of 90% and survives a temperature of at least 140 degrees Celsius. The reflective sheath is made of a material that exhibits a reflection rate of 95% and survives a temperature of at least 140 degrees Celsius. The cable is used to connect an anode of the concentrating photovoltaic module to a cathode of the same. The material of the reflective sheath may be isolating.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2010Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: Atomic Energy Council-Institute of Nuclear ResearchInventors: Yi-Ping Liang, Kuo-Hsin Lin, Hwen-Fen Hong, Hwa-Yuh Shin, Cherng-Tsong Kuo
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Patent number: 8138413Abstract: 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: June 29, 2010Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Inventors: Daniel Luch, Daniel Randolph Luch
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Publication number: 20120055536Abstract: According to one embodiment, there is provided an organic photovoltaic cell including substrate having a plurality of inclined surfaces and a plurality of solar cells formed on the inclined surfaces of the substrate. Each of the solar cells includes a pair of electrodes and a bulk heterojunction active layer interposed between the electrodes, the active layer containing a p-type organic semiconductor and an n-type organic semiconductor. An inclination of each of the inclined surfaces of the substrate against the horizontal plane is in the range of 60 to 89°, and the active layer exhibits a transmission of light within visible wavelength range of 3% or greater.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2011Publication date: March 8, 2012Inventors: Mitsunaga Saito, Masahiro Hosoya, Michihiko Inaba
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Patent number: 8119963Abstract: A high efficiency, environmentally friendly system comprising a plurality of photovoltaic solar collecting panels (PV panels) is disclosed. The system comprises an outer frame to which a plurality of inner frames are mounted to which the plurality of PV panels are attached. To minimize shadowing by the outer frame upon one or more PV panels, at least one PV panel may extend beyond an endpoint of the main frame. The system also comprises an outer frame rotation actuator that rotates the outer frame and an inner frame rotation actuator that rotates the inner frames and the plurality of PV panels. The solar tracking array frames disclosed herein help to improve the quality of the environment by conserving a variety of energy resources (e.g., fossil fuels, hydroelectric energy, etc.) The solar tracking array frames disclosed herein also help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as solar tracking array frames do not produce carbon dioxide byproducts.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2010Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: Sedona Energy Labs, Limited CompanyInventor: Mark Scanlon
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Patent number: 8109472Abstract: Structures and methods are disclosed regarding deployable structures with expandable longerons adjustably coupled with supporting structures such that an angle between the supporting structures can be adjusted. Such structures can include and/or be used for solar arrays, bridges, support structures, and more. These structures can be easily transported to a new location and deployed from the stowed configuration into a larger functional structure. In some embodiments these structures can use one or more longerons that can have two resting states: deployed and rolled.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2011Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Composite Technology Development, Inc.Inventors: Philip N. Keller, Robert Taylor, Larry G. Adams, Adam G. Gray, Naseem Munshi
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Electromagnetic radiation frequency optimizing device and method with ambient heat conversion device
Patent number: 8111970Abstract: A device comprising a conversion channel including: a first end configured to accept ambient electromagnetic radiation, the ambient electromagnetic radiation having an initial frequency, a second end configured to allow the ambient electromagnetic radiation to exit, and at least two opposing walls connecting the first end and the second end, wherein the at least two opposing walls include one or more crystals, the at least two opposing walls being separated by at least one-half of a wave length; wherein when the ambient electromagnetic radiation interacts with the one or more crystals of the at least two opposing side walls, the initial frequency of the ambient electromagnetic radiation being repeatedly increased to an optimal frequency is provided. Furthermore, an associated method is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2010Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Inventor: Richard J. Herrmann, Jr. -
Patent number: 8111034Abstract: A solar-powered charger includes a solar collector configured to generate electrical energy when exposed to light, a connector coupled to the solar collector to provide a pathway for discharging the electrical energy to an external device and a casing comprising a surface configured to dissipate heat.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2008Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Better Energy Systems, Inc.Inventor: David Fowler
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Publication number: 20120024342Abstract: A solar panel array includes a number of elongate printed circuit boards (PCBs), each PCB supporting a number of individual solar cells linearly mounted thereon and electrically connected in series to form a solar panel, and a number of hinge assemblies, each hinge assembly including two or more hinge bodies, two backing plates, one spring, and one hinge pin, the hinge assemblies mounted between adjacent solar panels using conventional hardware in a manner connecting them together such that they may be folded over one another in a fanfold arrangement or deployed out to one hundred and eighty degrees.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2011Publication date: February 2, 2012Inventor: Andrew E. Kalman
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Publication number: 20120025750Abstract: A portable solar power system, comprises a plurality of photovoltaic solar panels; storage batteries for storing energy generated by the photovoltaic solar panels; a charger operably connected to the photovoltaic solar panels for charging the storage batteries; a plurality of inverters operably connected to the respective photovoltaic solar panels for generating an AC output for connection to an outlet for feeding into an electric grid; and a switching circuit for automatically disconnecting the photovoltaic solar panels from the inverters and connecting the photovoltaic solar panels to the charger when power in the electric grid is down.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2010Publication date: February 2, 2012Inventor: Philip F. Margo
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Publication number: 20120020084Abstract: Mobile solar unit that can be moved to different places where a power point or lighting is required, characterized in that it is based on a trailer incorporating a structure the top of which is fitted with a collapsible frame that when stowed is arranged horizontally on the structure, and that also carries three superposed collapsible solar panels. The structure is fitted with a fixed inclined frame, that supports three more superposed collapsible solar panels, having a mechanical system using a hear motor inside the body work of the generator that makes it possible to raise or lower the upper platform and thereby situated the aforementioned collapsible solar panel as a continuation of the solar panels on the fixed inclined support; and then enable the superposed solar panels to be folded out, such that they are all inclined, coplanar and ready to capture solar energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2009Publication date: January 26, 2012Inventor: José Luis Romero Lampón
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Publication number: 20120012154Abstract: Structures and methods are disclosed regarding deployable structures with expandable longerons adjustably coupled with supporting structures such that an angle between the supporting structures can be adjusted. Such structures can include and/or be used for solar arrays, bridges, support structures, and more. These structures can be easily transported to a new location and deployed from the stowed configuration into a larger functional structure. In some embodiments these structures can use one or more longerons that can have two resting states: deployed and rolled.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2011Publication date: January 19, 2012Applicant: Composite Technology Development, Inc.Inventors: Philip N. Keller, Robert Taylor, Larry G. Adams, Adam G. Gray, Naseem Munshi
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Publication number: 20120006381Abstract: 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: July 12, 2010Publication date: January 12, 2012Inventor: Jerry Sorgento
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Publication number: 20110315192Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2011Publication date: December 29, 2011Inventors: Alexander Swatek, Christoph Schöndorfer, Elmar Stöger
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Patent number: 8076568Abstract: 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: March 31, 2010Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Inventors: Daniel Luch, Daniel Randolph Luch
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Publication number: 20110297205Abstract: A combination roofing panel and solar module includes a flexible membrane sheet, such as a single-ply membrane sheet, and a plurality of elongated solar or photovoltaic modules arranged side-by-side, end-to-end, or adjacent each other. The modules are adhered to the flexible membrane, and the edges of the modules having electrical connectors or electrodes are arranged to face each other or be aligned with each other. The electrical connectors are connected by a solder connection to module electrodes through apertures in a bottom surface of the flexible membrane and are connected in series. The series electrical connectors are connected directly to direct current (DC) electric devices, to a combiner box, to another panel or to an inverter which provides coverts direct current (DC) to alternating current electricity for use in residential, commercial or industrial building structures.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2011Publication date: December 8, 2011Inventors: Edward J. Stevenson, Bruce M. Khouri
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Publication number: 20110291607Abstract: Case or other portable container with an electric power supply and storage unit which can be recharged using solar energy or other energy sources, useful for providing electric power during open-air activities or for other uses, of the type which comprises a case or other preferably rigid or semi-rigid container (1), with the base body (101) and the lid (201) designed internally to house at least one solar panel and at least one electric power supply and storage unit (6) which can be recharged by means of said solar panel and which is provided with sockets so as to be able to supply electric user applications, characterized in that several solar panels (4) which can be folded in book form and wallet form are housed inside the said case (1) so that in the folded position the panels occupy an extremely small amount of space and in the open position the panels have a much larger exposed area, all of which being envisaged so that, also owing to the fact that more than one of the solar panels (4) is available, itType: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2011Publication date: December 1, 2011Inventors: Enea Afro Rossi, Demis Fabbri
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Patent number: 8061660Abstract: A deployable structure is disclosed. The deployable structure may include one or more slit-tube longerons; and one or more flat sheets coupled with the one or more slit-tube longerons. The one or more slit-tube longerons and the one or more flat sheets may be stowed by rolling the one or more slit-tube longerons and the one or more flat sheets together into a roll. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the one or more slit-tube longerons may be exposed when stowed. In another embodiment, the one or more slit-tube longerons may be manufactured from a shape memory material. These slit-tube longerons unroll into to a straight configuration when exposed to heat.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2010Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: Composite Technology Development, Inc.Inventors: Neal Beidleman, Gregg Freebury, Will Francis, Mark Lake, Rory Barrett, Philip N. Keller, Robert Taylor
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Patent number: 8063301Abstract: A photovoltaic module which prevents enlargement of the dimensions of a photovoltaic submodule by reducing ineffective parts which do not contribute to power generation. The photovoltaic module includes a photovoltaic submodule including a plurality of solar cells interposed between two light-transmitting substrates through the intermediary of an encapsulant, and a connecting lead extending from an edge between the two light-transmitting substrates for outputting generated electric current, a terminal box 30 attached near to the edge of the photovoltaic submodule housing a connecting part between the connecting lead and a cable for outputting generated electric current to the outside, and an outer frame set around the outer circumference of the photovoltaic submodule. An opening 28 through which the connecting lead and the terminal box are inserted is provided to the outer frame at a position which receives at least the terminal box.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2006Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masaru Hikosaka, Hiroyuki Oda, Shingo Okamoto
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Publication number: 20110265851Abstract: The present invention proposes a posture-adjustable solar-collecting window blind, which can adjust the position of solar cells to better collect solar energy. In the window blind, a solar detector and an ampere meter are used to detect the relationship between the incident angle of sunlight and an optimal arrangement of the solar detector. The relationship can be further used to adjust the positions of the plurality of solar cells. Furthermore, the window blind comprises a light sensor to detect the light intensity of a target area, which can be complementarily used to adjust the position of the plurality of solar cells.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2009Publication date: November 3, 2011Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.Inventors: Igor Berezhnyy, Elmo Marcus Attila Diederiks
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Publication number: 20110259393Abstract: A solar cell module includes a number of solar cell panels and a number of connecting elements connecting to the solar cell panels. The solar cell panels are collapsibly connected by the connecting elements. Due to the collapsible function, a volume of the solar cell module can be reduced, thereby simplifying transport of the solar cell module.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2010Publication date: October 27, 2011Applicant: FOXSEMICON INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY, INC.Inventors: CHIH-MING LAI, RONG-YIH YAN
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Patent number: 8042534Abstract: A solar servo control tracking device is disclosed. The device includes: an integrated control device having a solar cell sensor unit detecting luminance at a solar azimuth, and an integrated control panel transmitting a control signal at a maximal solar azimuth, calculated by comparing a solar azimuth from the luminance at a solar azimuth; and solar tracking devices, respectively having a tracking device controller receiving the control signal via a wireless link, a high torque driving unit with an AC single phase inductor to generate driving torque by the control signal from the tracking device controller, solar module assemblies driven by the high torque driving unit to track the solar azimuth in accordance with the control signal, and an operating angle sensor unit installed to the high torque driving unit to detect operating angles of the solar module assemblies that track the sun by the control signal.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2008Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: SDN Company LtdInventors: Kee Hyok Choi, In Cheol Lim, Hyun Woo Kim, Hyeok Jae Woo, Kyoo Jae Shin
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Publication number: 20110253614Abstract: A versatile solar deployment system may provide one or more scalable solar deployment units. A solar deployment unit may include a chassis, a panel support provided by the chassis, and one or more solar panels coupled to the panel support, wherein the solar panels are folded together in an undeployed position, and the solar panels are unfolded in a deployed position. Alternatively, a solar deployment unit may include a rolling mechanism providing a rotating shaft and a flexible panel. One end of the flexible panel is secured to the rotating shaft, the flexible panel is rolled around the rotating shaft to retract the flexible panel into an undeployed position, and the flexible panel is unrolled to deploy the flexible panel into a deployed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2011Publication date: October 20, 2011Applicant: University of HoustonInventors: Seamus Curran, Nathaniel Morgan, Nigel Alley
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Publication number: 20110253193Abstract: A deployable solar panel system includes a plurality of solar cell panels that are mechanically and electrically coupled to each other prior to shipment to an installation site, folded in a stacking arrangement within a packaging container for shipment to the installation site, and then unfolded to deploy the solar cell panels at a desired tilt angle during installation at the installation site. In one embodiment, the solar cell panels are mechanically coupled to each other using a hinge assembly, such as a hinge bracket and hinge pin. Each solar cell panel system is electrically coupled to each other using a series string. The series string may be electrically coupled to a DC-DC converter and/or a DC-AC inverter.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2010Publication date: October 20, 2011Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Charles Steven Korman, Neil Anthony Johnson
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Publication number: 20110240093Abstract: A standalone or partially standalone solar photovoltaic structure and methods for assembling the structure are described. The solar photovoltaic structure can employ a hinged photovoltaic roof deck that can be folded for transportation. Described are hinges that can be removed after assembly and act as protective elements to facilitate transportation. Also described is an attachment arrangement for joining purlin or frame members to vertical support columns by locking the frame numbers into column capitals.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2011Publication date: October 6, 2011Applicant: PHAT ENERGYInventor: Nicholas Brady Tucker
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Publication number: 20110210209Abstract: A deployable structure that may include a slit-tube longeron and a flat panel coupled with the slit-tube longeron. The slit-tube longeron may include a tubular member having a slit that runs along the longitudinal length of the slit-tube longeron. The deployable structure may be configured to couple with a satellite. And the deployable structure may be configured to transform between a stowed state and a deployed state where the tubular member is substantially straight when the deployable structure is in the deployed state, and the tubular member is wrapped around the satellite when the deployable structure is in the stowed state.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2011Publication date: September 1, 2011Applicant: Composite Technology Development, Inc.Inventors: Robert Taylor, Philip N. Keller, Kaushik Mallick, Dana Turse, Michael J. Hulse
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Publication number: 20110204186Abstract: Deployable structures are disclosed having collapsible structural members that include a stowed configuration with a volume smaller than the expanded configuration. Such structures can include and/or be used for litters, bridges, support structures, solar arrays, and more. These structures can be easily transported to a new location and deployed from the stowed configuration into a larger functional structure. In some embodiments these structures can use one or more slit-tube longerons that can have two resting states: deployed and rolled.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2011Publication date: August 25, 2011Applicant: Composite Technology Development, Inc.Inventors: Philip N. Keller, Robert Taylor, Dana Turse, Larry G. Adams
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Publication number: 20110192444Abstract: A deployable structure is disclosed. The deployable structure may include one or more slit-tube longerons; and one or more flat sheets coupled with the one or more slit-tube longerons. The one or more slit-tube longerons and the one or more flat sheets may be stowed by rolling the one or more slit-tube longerons and the one or more flat sheets together into a roll. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the one or more slit-tube longerons may be exposed when stowed. In another embodiment, the one or more slit-tube longerons may be manufactured from a shape memory material. These slit-tube longerons unroll into to a straight configuration when exposed to heat.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2010Publication date: August 11, 2011Applicant: Composite Technology Development, Inc.Inventors: Neal Beidleman, Gregg Freebury, Will Francis, Mark Lake, Rory Barrett, Philip N. Keller, Robert Taylor
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Publication number: 20110181234Abstract: A portable modular solar power system generates electricity from sunlight to charge a battery and provide power to a load. Specifically, the portable system includes a load receiving the electrical power, and a portable modular solar power apparatus that includes a photovoltaic panel converting the sunlight to the electrical energy, a battery connected to the photovoltaic panel and receiving an electrical charge from the photovoltaic panel, and providing the electrical power to the load connected to the battery, and a lightweight frame housing the battery and having the photovoltaic panel connected thereto. The lightweight frame includes a battery tray supporting the battery and providing self ballasting for the portable modular solar power apparatus, and at least two adjustable telescoping legs providing support for the portable modular solar power apparatus and allowing for adjustments to an angle of the photovoltaic panel with respect to receipt of the sunlight.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2011Publication date: July 28, 2011Inventor: Michael K. Branham
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Publication number: 20110162690Abstract: A transportable solar panel and support system has a flexible base, and a plurality of photovoltaic solar panels coupled to the flexible base. The solar panels are spaced apart from one another by gaps to permit the flexible base to be configured in an unfolded condition so that the solar panels can receive sunlight, and a folded condition where the solar panels are arranged at least partially adjacent to one another. A storage compartment and receptacles are disposed on the flexible base, with at least a portion of the receptacles axially aligned with one another to span one or more of the gaps between the solar panels. Support rods are provided that are movable between a stowed position within the storage compartment when the flexible base is in the folded condition, and a deployed position within the receptacles and spanning one or more of the gaps between the solar panels when the flexible base is in the unfolded condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 3, 2011Publication date: July 7, 2011Inventors: Robert Emmett Workman, Norm Krantz
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Patent number: 7973236Abstract: A photovoltaic array with improved thermal performance includes a photovoltaic array, an electro-optic shutter disposed on the photovoltaic array, and a control system connected to at least the electro-optic shutter. The control system, based upon input from a sensor, switches the electro-optic shutter between transmissive and reflective conditions so as to control exposure of light to the photovoltaic array.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2008Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventor: Steven L. Sinsabaugh
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Publication number: 20110146751Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2011Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventors: Dennis McGuire, Sanjeev Jakhete
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Publication number: 20110108088Abstract: A photovoltaic structure is provided. The photovoltaic structure includes a photovoltaic module having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a perimeter. The photovoltaic structure also includes a plurality of flexible tabs attached to the photovoltaic module bottom surface, wherein the plurality of flexible tabs extend beyond the perimeter of the photovoltaic module. A method for mounting a photovoltaic module is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2010Publication date: May 12, 2011Applicant: Xunlight CorporationInventors: James R. Young, Thomas J. Denniston
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Patent number: 7939746Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to solar panels to generate electrical energy. In particular, solar panels configured to efficiently receive scattered light are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2009Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Inventor: Brian Donald Wichner
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Patent number: 7915523Abstract: The present invention relates to a compact solar module (CSM) apparatus and a method of producing electricity using such an apparatus in residential buildings for example. One embodiment of the module is made of two arrays of 2×4 solar cells. Each cell in the array has a surface area of 36 square inches for example. Each array covers an area of 1×2 square ft, generating 26.4 Watts of electricity. One CSM of this embodiment consists of 2×8 sub-CSMs, generating a total of 422.24 Watts, and having the assembled dimension of 27.5?×21?×7.6?. The compact feature of solar module relies on sunray transmission to the solar cells and their remote illumination through optical fibers and sets of concave and convex mirrors & lenses. Sunrays are collected and concentrated and condensed on the optical fiber bundles installed in light guides penetrating through a roof top and tracks sunrays during sunrays.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2007Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Inventor: Rou Farhadieh
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Publication number: 20110062779Abstract: A kit for generating electricity from solar power to an electrical system inside any vehicle relying on a photovoltaic panels in the format of a foldable solar panel (1) DC disconnects (2,3); charge controller (4); batteries (5); electrical wires, and fuses.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2009Publication date: March 17, 2011Inventors: Chris John Reichart, Gerald G. Glass
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Patent number: 7902460Abstract: A buss bar strip for mounting to a solar panel to electrically connect to a series of electrical lines extending from solar cells. The buss bar strip can include a thin elongate flat flexible strip of insulative material having a longitudinal length. A predetermined pattern of elongate conductors can be longitudinally disposed on the insulative strip in at least two rows along the longitudinal length and electrically isolated from each other. Each conductor can have a predetermined position, length, and spacing from each other on the insulative strip for laterally electrically connecting to selected electrical lines from the solar cells at lateral electrical connection points located along the length of the conductor on exposed surfaces on the conductor.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2010Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Antaya Technologies CorporationInventors: Stephen C. Antaya, Manuel H. Machado, Matthew Jarod Scherer
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Publication number: 20110030761Abstract: The present invention relates generally to roofing products. The present invention relates more particularly to roofing products for use with photovoltaic elements, and to photovoltaic systems that include one or more photovoltaic elements joined to a roofing substrate. In one embodiment, a roofing product includes a flexible roofing substrate having a top surface, the top surface having one or more granule-coated zones thereon capable of acting as a receptor zone or an exposure zone, each zone being adapted to receive one or more photovoltaic elements; and an adhesive suitable for securing photovoltaic elements to one or more of the granule-coated zones, the adhesive capable of forming a bond to the granules and the top surface of the flexible roofing substrate and to the bottom surface of the photovoltaic elements.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 10, 2010Publication date: February 10, 2011Inventors: Husnu M. Kalkanoglu, Gregory F. Jacobs, Peter Chihlas
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Patent number: 7884279Abstract: A two-axis solar tracker is capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. The solar tracker includes a solar array, a frame, a base, a pivot frame, and a first and second actuator. The solar array is mounted to the frame and captures sunlight. The base is pivotally connected to the frame and defines a pivot axis for elevational movement of the solar array. The pivot frame is also pivotally connected to the frame and defines a pivot axis for azimuthal movement of the solar array. The first actuator controls elevational movement of the solar array and the second actuator controls azimuthal movement of the solar array. The solar tracker is pivotable between a raised position and a stowed position.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2006Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Robert H. Dold, Jeffrey J. Nieter
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Publication number: 20110023934Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2008Publication date: February 3, 2011Applicant: University of Florida Research FoundationInventors: Jiangeng Xue, Franky So, Kirk S. Schanze, John R. Reynolds
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Publication number: 20110023935Abstract: A flexible photovoltaic module for converting light into electricity includes a plurality of photovoltaic cells, a wiring harness, and a connection subsystem. The plurality of photovoltaic cells are electrically interconnected to form a positive node for supplying current to a load and a negative node for receiving current from the load. The wiring harness includes a plurality of flexible electrical conductors, each electrical conductor being electrically isolated within the wiring harness. The connection subsystem is operable to selectively connect the positive node to one of the electrical conductors of the wiring harness. A plurality of flexible photovoltaic modules may be connected to form a photovoltaic array.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2010Publication date: February 3, 2011Inventors: Joseph H. Armstrong, Matthew B. Foster, Jonathan S. Port, Douglas G. Jensen
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Publication number: 20110017262Abstract: A portable self-contained photovoltaic device comprising: a hollow cylindrical support (1, 2) in two substantially coaxial portions assembled to one another; a rolled flexible photovoltaic collector (5); a battery (4) mounted in the first portion (1) of said portions and designed to store the electric energy produced by said photovoltaic collector (5); an electronic control circuit (3) for managing the charging of the battery, mounted in said first portion (1); several LED lamps (8) stored inside said rolled photovoltaic collector and inside the second portion (2) of said portions.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2010Publication date: January 27, 2011Applicant: ILAND GREEN TECHNOLOGIES SAInventor: Daniele Oppizzi