Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A foldable solar energy apparatus is provided. The foldable solar energy apparatus includes a frame, a first solar energy module, an actuation module, and a power module. A photovoltaic panel is coupled to a first holder of the first solar energy module, and electricity generated by the photovoltaic panel is stored in the power module. The first holder is rotatably coupled to the frame so that the first holder is collapsible via the actuation module, which is disposed at the frame and connected to the first holder. The first holder and the actuation module provide the solar energy apparatus with a foldable function. Thus, the solar energy apparatus can be folded in response to changes in weather conditions, thereby preventing the photovoltaic panel from being damaged by bad weather.

Abstract: A foldable deployable panel device (12) attached to a body (16) of an object is disclosed. The device includes a panel pivotally attached to the body by a first pivot element (40/42) at a first pivot position and a second pivot element (29) at a second pivot position. The first pivot element (40/42) is disengageable from the first pivot position, when the panel (12) is aligned in a predetermined orientation. The second pivot element (29) is fixed at the second pivot position, when the first pivot element (40/42) is engaged at the first pivot position. The panel (12) is urged by an energy storing element (28), when the first pivot element (40/42) is disengaged from the first pivot position, to move into a deployed position.

Abstract: Highly efficient solar fans used in portable and built in configurations. A ventilation fan can be used for exhausting air out from underneath roofs, and/or for being portable in use and application. The fan can include optimized airflow blades having a twisted configuration that can move at a rotational speed operation of up to approximately 500 rpm. The approximately 15 inch diameter twisted blades can be premolded on a hub that together form a single molded unit of plastic. They can also be fabricated using metal. The unit can be mounted in an exhaust outlet having a conical diffuser on or adjacent to a roof. Another embodiment allows for portable solar powered fans used anywhere there is a need for ventilation and moving of air. The blades can rotate by a solar powered motor, where the blades and motor can generate up to approximately 1040 cfm while using no more than approximately 16 Watts. Portable fans can be powered by solar panels. One embodiment has solar panels mounted to a handtruck.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An exemplary solar energy assembly includes a body (10), a solar energy collecting component (20), and a lens module (30). The lens module is movably mounted to the body and is configured for concentrating incident solar radiation onto the solar energy collecting component. The solar energy collecting component is movably mounted to the body and is configured for converting incident solar radiation energy into electrical energy. The solar energy collecting component and the lens module are movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position the lens module, the body, and the solar energy collecting component are stacked on each other. In the second position the solar energy collecting component and the lens module are moved away from the body so as to enable the lens module to concentrate incident solar radiation onto the solar energy collecting component.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A mobile power system provides a housing, such as a container having at least one door at a first end. From the first end a first set of arrays can extend from a stowed configuration inside of the housing to an extended configuration through the first end. Slides and rollers can facilitate this transition. Once in the extended configuration, the first set of arrays can then transition to a deployed configuration such as by rotating at least one auxiliary array relative to a main array. A control panel, preferably accessible from outside of the housing, can automatedly transition the first set of arrays from the stowed to at least the extended, if not deployed configuration. A similarly operating set of second arrays can be utilized with some embodiments.

Abstract: A solar device includes a substrate structure having a surface region, a flexible and conformal material comprising a polymer material affixing the surface region. Additionally, the solar device includes one or more solar cells spatially provided by one or more films of materials characterized by a thickness dimension of 25 microns and less and mechanically coupled to the flexible and conformal material, the one or more solar cells having a flexible characteristic that maintains each of the solar cells substantially free from any damage or breakage. The solar device further includes an interconnect structure configured to couple one or more of the solar cells. The interconnect structure includes at least a first contact region and a second contact region within the flexible and conformal material.

Abstract: A system and method for installing a solar module on a roof using a mounting structure which can be adjusted after it has been fixed to the roof. The mounting structure is comprised of a plate having a slot into which an adjustable bracket is slidably positioned. The mounting structures are spaced from each other and the plates are fixed to the roof by toggle bolts or the like. A framed module is placed across the structures and one or both of the adjustable brackets are adjusted to align holes in the frame of the module with threaded chambers in the brackets. Next, threaded fasteners are passed through the holes and into the chambers to thereby secure the solar module to the roof.

Abstract: The invention provides a collapsible stand assembly for an accessory, the stand assembly including a base, a mounting head, and at least one support member, the at least one support member being adapted in a collapsed configuration to be stored with the base and the mounting head, the stand being adapted for assembly in an operative configuration wherein the at least one support member releasably connects the accessory to the mounting head and wherein the mounting head is connected to the base. In one preferred embodiment, the accessory is a rollable solar panel and the at least one support member preferably comprises a plurality of support rods. Preferably also, the solar panel is generally rectangular in shape and is adapted to be rolled, when not in use, into a hollow cylinder defining an internal generally cylindrical void region.

Abstract: A method for effectively collecting solar energy, including disposing solar panels substantially inter-facing each other, and reflecting sun light between inter-facing solar panels. A solar panel, including a first portion adapted to convert sun light into usable energy at a first optimal wavelength; and a second portion adapted to convert sun light into usable energy at a second optimal wavelength. A method for effectively collecting solar energy, including using a first portion of a first solar panel to partially convert a beam of sun light into usable energy, and partially reflect the beam of sun light into a second solar panel; and using the second solar panel to partially convert the reflected beam into collectable energy.

Abstract: A multi-stage folding portable solar charging apparatus includes first, second and third photoelectric conversion modules. The second photoelectric conversion module is pivotally connected to a side of the first photoelectric conversion module and folded/unfolded with respect to an upper surface of the first photoelectric conversion module, and the third photoelectric conversion module is pivotally connected to another side of the first photoelectric conversion module and can be folded/unfolded with respect to a lower surface of the first photoelectric conversion module, such that the photoelectric conversion modules are electrically connected with each other. A connector is fixed and electrically connected to one of the photoelectric conversion modules.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for sequencing the deployment of a deployable structure comprising a first body, at least one second body mobile relative to the first body, and at least one third body mobile relative to either the first body or the second body and disposed, in an at least partially folded position of the structure, against or between the first and second bodies. The device comprises a first member fixedly mounted on the third body and preventing its deployment when it is immobilized and a second member mounted on the second body and immobilizing the first member until the second body has effected a selected portion of a kinematic that drives it from an initial position to a final position.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: Systems and methods for disposing and supporting a solar panel array are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system for supporting a solar panel array includes the use of support columns and cables suspended between the support columns, with the solar panels received by solar panel receivers that are adapted to couple to the cables. The solar panel array may then be used to provide power as well as shelter. Cooling, lighting, security, or other devices may be added to the solar panel array.

Abstract: Highly efficient ventilation fans for exhausting air out from underneath roofs, and for being portable in use and application. The fan can include optimized airflow blades having a twisted configuration that can move at a rotational speed operation of up to approximately 500 rpm. The approximately 15 inch diameter twisted blades can be premolded on a hub that together form a single molded unit of plastic. They can also be fabricated using metal. The unit can be mounted in an exhaust outlet having a conical diffuser on or adjacent to a roof. Alternatively, the fan can be portable for use most anywhere there is a need for ventilation and moving of air. The blades can rotate by a solar powered motor, where the blades and motor can generate up to approximately 1040 cfm while using no more than approximately 16 Watts.

Abstract: A configurable articulated photovoltaic assembly has a plurality of photovoltaic modules hingedly connected to each other to allow the assembly to fold for transportation. The assembly is unfolded at the installation site, positioned and secured in place using adhesives, mechanical fasteners or both. The angle of the solar panels may be adjusted by moving support panels from horizontal to vertical. Once secured, the panels are rigidly held in place and are integrated with the building surface such as a roof or wall. Hinges are bidirectional and include metal, fabric and sliding extension types. Each module is wired and connected to a junction box attached therein.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A self rotating deployed film solar batteries array is composed of film solar batteries, electrical cables, a center axle and connecting lines: many long strip shaped film solar batteries radiate to form a circle or a polygon-array, when linking two adjacent film solar batteries with connecting lines, each film solar battery links to a center axle with electrical cables; film batteries deployed and maintained in an array shape by self rotating centrifugal force in space; film batteries are coiling outside the surface of a center axle before their deployment. The unite weight of thin film battery is only 1/30 of traditional solar cell paddle. The film solar batteries array can be used in various satellite, space station and solar power rocket. It will greatly reduce the launching cost, enhance the power for spacecrafts and double the length of service life.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing power to portable medical equipment using natural energy, such as solar energy. In one embodiment, a solar charging system is portable and has at least one flexible solar panel. Preferably, the solar panel is foldable and configured to convert solar energy into electrical energy, as required to charge rechargeable batteries and/or the like and operate the portable medical equipment. Preferably, the solar charging system is connected to the portable medical devices through an interface, and the interface is configured to make an output of the solar panel compatible for powering the portable medical equipment.

Abstract: A photovoltaic awning assembly includes a sheet of material carrying photovoltaic strips thereon. A rotatable roll receives the sheet of material and has a contoured drum at opposite ends thereof for deploying and retrieving the sheet of material through the use of a cable connected to a boom at an opposite end of the sheet. A pair of support tubes extend along opposite sides of the sheet of material, and support legs serve to position the sheet. In one embodiment of the invention, one of the support legs is out of plane with the others, introducing a saddle surface in the sheet of material to provide it with stability to resist wind. The roll for retrieving and maintaining the material is constructed of a non-metallic material such as corrugated fiberglass sheet, rolled about take-up drums at opposite ends thereof, and having reinforcing flanged disks in the interior thereof. The corrugations provide conduits for the passage of electrical conductors to an externally maintained control box.

Abstract: A collapsible solar system includes a frame structure and a sunlight tracking arrangement. The frame structure includes a supporting base adapted for mounting on a platform and a solar panel pivotally coupling with a rotational frame which is rotatably supported on the supporting base. The solar panel is pivotally folded between a stored position that the solar panel is laid flat on the platform, and a tracking position that the solar panel is pivotally folded at an inclination angle to be perpendicular to the direction of the sun. The sunlight tracking arrangement includes a horizontal driving unit selectively adjusting a horizontal direction of the solar panel, and a vertical driving unit pivotally lifting up the solar panel until the solar panel is pivotally folded at the inclination angle to be perpendicular to the direction of the sun.

Abstract: A charging device that receives light from diverse sources includes at least a solar cell that receives light from diverse sources to generate a voltage source, a charging circuit module connected with the solar cell to boost the voltage of the voltage source, and a connector connected with the charging circuit module. Such a design enables the present invention to charge a mobile phone or rechargeable battery by receiving the light radiated from the indoor light kits or sunlight.

Abstract: A solar panel curtain including a plurality of sunshield panels disposed in parallel, an electric energy storage device electrically connected to the sunshield panels, an orientation device connected to the sunshield panels and electrically connected to the electric energy storage device, and a switch device is provided. Each sunshield panel includes plural solar panels locked to each other. The electric energy storage device receives and stores the electric energy generated by the sunshield panels. The orientation device orients the sunshield panels, wherein power is supplied to the orientation device by the electric energy storage device or an external power source. The switch device is electrically connected to the orientation device for turning on or off the orientation device. The solar panel curtain may further include a photo detector device and a knob device such that the sunshield panels can be either automatically oriented or manually operated through the knob device.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing improved thin-film solar cells entirely by sputtering includes a high efficiency back contact/reflecting multi-layer containing at least one barrier layer consisting of a transition metal nitride. A copper indium gallium diselenide (Cu(InxGa1-x)Se2) absorber layer (X ranging from 1 to approximately 0.7) is co-sputtered from specially prepared electrically conductive targets using dual cylindrical rotary magnetron technology. The band gap of the absorber layer can be graded by varying the gallium content, and by replacing the gallium partially or totally with aluminum. Alternately the absorber layer is reactively sputtered from metal alloy targets in the presence of hydrogen selenide gas. RF sputtering is used to deposit a non-cadmium containing window layer of ZnS. The top transparent electrode is reactively sputtered aluminum doped ZnO. A unique modular vacuum roll-to-roll sputtering machine is described.

Abstract: A portable, lightweight and detachable photovoltaic window system affording a resource for converting solar power in existing buildings and similar structures. At least one photovoltaic panel is interconnected to a building window or entrance casing or directly to a window pane through use of lanyards, hook and loop fasteners, or suction cups. Solar energy is captured from direct sunlight incidental to the location of the window. A panel may be removably supported by a fabric material interconnected to an interior wall via hook and loop fasteners. An inverter converts energy from DC to AC for powering electrically driven devices. A pocket is provided on the panel support for temporarily storing the auxiliary devices. This system enables a person with little knowledge of solar energy equipment a convenient and inexpensive method to convert sunlight into useful energy without major alterations to the building or window unit being used as a light-source.

Abstract: A solar array including a solar array assembly, hub assembly, and wing assembly.

Abstract: An ultra lightweight semiconductor device such as a photovoltaic device is fabricated on a non-etchable barrier layer which is disposed upon an etchable substrate. The device is contacted with an appropriate etchant for a period of time sufficient to remove at least a portion of the thickness of the substrate. The barrier layer prevents damage to the photovoltaic material during the etching process. Photovoltaic devices fabricated by this method have specific power levels in excess of 300 w/kg.

Abstract: The invention relates to an articulated assembly (1) comprising at least two panels (4-7) which are positioned close to a solar generator. The aforementioned panels are articulated in pairs such they can pivot between a stacked configuration, in which the panels are stacked on top of one another, and an unstacked or deployed position, in which the panels are disposed essentially in one plane, said panels being interconnected by means of a hinge. According to the invention, the hinge element is formed by at least one Carpentier coupling (11) which performs the following two functions: (i) in the stacked configuration and during deployment, the coupling generates a permanent driving torque which moves the panels into the unstacked configuration; and (ii), in the unstacked configuration, the coupling provides a mechanical restraint for the panels.

Abstract: Titania is a semiconductor and photocatalyst that is also chemically inert. With its bandgap of 3.0, to activate the photocatalytic property of titania requires light of about 390 nm wavelength, which is in the ultra-violet (UV), where sunlight is very low in intensity. A method and devices are disclosed wherein stress is induced and managed in a thin film of titania in order to shift and lower the bandgap energy into the longer wavelengths that are more abundant in sunlight. Applications of this stress-induced bandgap-shifted titania photocatalytic surface include photoelectrolysis for production of hydrogen gas from water, photovoltaics for production of electricity, and photocatalysis for detoxification and disinfection.

Abstract: A portable solar energy supplying device includes a body, a solar energy board, a secondary battery, a charging circuit, and a control unit. The body has a receiving space. The solar energy board is received in the receiving space, and receives solar energy and converts the solar energy into electrical power when the solar energy board is unfolded outside of the receiving space. The charging circuit is electrically connected with the solar energy board for receiving the electrical power converted by the solar energy board to charge the secondary battery. The control unit is electrically connected to the secondary battery for adjusting the output voltage of the secondary battery for an application system. Thereby, the goals of charging and supplying solar energy are achieved. The occupied space is reduced, it is convenient for the user to carry it, and the solar energy board is protected.

Abstract: A photovoltaic panel (PV panel) includes a plurality of rigid solar or photovoltaic modules attached to a flexible membrane. The PV modules are arranged adjacent to each other, e.g., side-by-side or end-to-end, and are spaced apart from each other so as to allow each PV module to be folded over an adjacent PV module. The PV modules have wires that are arranged so as to provide connection to wires of the adjacent PV modules with wires. The wires extending between adjacent PV modules have sufficient length or slack so as to allow the modules to be folded over each other. The PV panel may include a plurality of spacers between the PV modules and the membrane to provide gaps. The gaps aid in cooling of the PV modules during operation.

Abstract: A notebook carry case employing a solar energy charging and cooling system is disclosed. In one form, a solar energy charge and cooling system can include a first fan coupled to an interior lid portion of a housing configured to store a portable electronic device, and a solar panel array coupled to an exterior portion of the lid and operable to convert solar energy to power the first fan. The first fan can be responsive to the converted solar energy to reduce an operating temperature within the housing.

Abstract: A unique solar powered invention(s) to be used for the charging of mobile communications devices/cellular telephone batteries for extend usage. The distinctive invention(s) consist of solar panel(s) to collect natural light for generating a power source, a battery for storing solar energy, and the option to use the current most used power source A/C to transfer energy to the cellular telephone battery by having the appropriate cellular telephone adapters to connect the invention(s) to the cellular telephone to be able to recharge the cellular telephone battery for extensive usage. The invention(s) has a detachable A/C adapter, a switch in order to choose what source of power would be appropriate and lights controlled by a button to indicate if the solar battery is empty or full in the invention(s).

Abstract: The invention relates to a transportable system for producing solar electricity, consisting of solar cells that are mounted in rectangular frames, a current transformer and a control device. The aim of the invention is to provide an efficient, mobile system for generating solar electricity, which can be rapidly erected and dismantled and is easy to transport. To achieve this: the solar modules of said system are interconnected by articulations and can be placed in a cradle, which protects them during transport and at least partially surrounds them in a folded state; the solar modules are connected to and held by a support that is mounted on the cradle, in such a way that said modules can be deployed and folded away; and said modules lie on the support in the deployed state and are additionally supported by telescopic legs that can be extended outside the cradle.

Abstract: A foldable solar panel comprises multiple rigid cell assemblies, multiple folding cell assemblies and multiple primary flexible seams. Each folding cell assembly has two symmetric folding cell assembly halves and a flexible secondary seam. The symmetric folding cell assembly halves are adjacent to each other. The secondary flexible seam connects adjacent symmetric folding cell assembly halves and allows them to fold inward onto each other. A primary flexible seam connects a rigid cell assembly to an adjacent folding cell assembly to form an absorbing surface. The primary flexible seams and secondary flexible seams facilitate folding the foldable solar penal to a small volume to facilitate transportation or storage, and effectively keep the absorbing surface from being damaged.

Abstract: 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 at least one wind turbine and/or 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.

Abstract: A retractable solar panel system, which includes a plurality of solar panels, and a system for extending and retracting the plurality of solar panels. The plurality of solar panels can be configured to be attachable to a nautical stay, wherein the stay is fixed at one end to a hull of the sailboat and at a second end to a mast of the sailboat.

Abstract: A photovoltaic (PV) module includes a plurality of PV cells and a plurality of reconfigurable interconnects which electrically interconnect the plurality of PV cells.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A solar cell for a solar generator panel (10, 10?). According to the invention, the cell is coupled to a reflector (70, 71, 700) in such a manner that together with the reflector the cell forms an individual component (20, 21, 20?), while the other end (E2, E2?) of the reflector remains free, the mechanical flexibility properties of the reflector being determined in such a manner as to enable it, in the absence of any vertical pressure, to stay upright in a first position in which its free end points towards outer space, thereby defining a “upper” first face (701, 711) of the reflector facing outer space, while the “lower” opposite face (702, 712) faces the panel, and in such a manner that in a second position, in response to the application of vertical pressure, it is capable of presenting its upper face facing towards the plane of the panel. The invention is particularly applicable to space vehicles having local-concentration solar panels.

Abstract: 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 coverts direct current (DC) to alternating current electricity for use in residential, commercial or industrial building structures. The ends and elongated edges of a roofing component or panel having the flexible membrane and modules can be sealed for protection.

Abstract: A solar energy charging device includes a main body having a plurality of grooves disposed at a top surface thereof for inserting batteries or electronic devices; a plurality of indicator lights disposed at a peripheral portion of the top surface; a first solar panel pivotally attached to the top surface, the first solar panel is rotatable, and covers the grooves when the first solar panel is closed; at least one second solar panel attached at a side wall of the main body, the second solar panel is embedded in the main body when it is not in use, and will be take out when it is in an operation state.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for reducing the risk of primary and secondary electrostatic discharges occurring in particular in the solar generators of spacecraft. A solar energy concentrator device for spacecraft includes a reflector for reflecting solar radiation onto a photovoltaic cell for converting solar energy into electrical energy and a heat transfer arrangement for transporting to a cold area heat energy stored by the cell following reception of solar radiation. One particular application of the device is to solar panels for satellites.

Abstract: A solar generator panel includes at least one reflector for reflecting solar radiation onto at least one photovoltaic cell. The reflector takes the form of a flexible material blade, a first end of which is fixed to the panel and a second end of which remains free. The material has mechanical properties such that, in a first position, in the absence of vertical pressure, it maintains itself erect so that its free end points to outer space, thereby defining an upper face that faces outer space and an opposite lower face that faces the panel, and, in a second position, in response to vertical pressure, it orients its upper face toward the plane of the panel. One particular application is to high-power solar panels for satellites.

Abstract: A photovoltaic awning assembly includes a sheet of material carrying photovoltaic strips thereon. A rotatable roll receives the sheet of material and has a contoured drum at opposite ends thereof for deploying and retrieving the sheet of material through the use of a cable connected to a boom at an opposite end of the sheet. A pair of support tubes extend along opposite sides of the sheet of material, and support legs serve to position the sheet. In one embodiment of the invention, one of the support legs is out of plane with the others, introducing a saddle surface in the sheet of material to provide it with stability to resist wind. The roll for retrieving and maintaining the material is constructed of a non-metallic material such as corrugated fiberglass sheet, rolled about take-up drums at opposite ends thereof, and having reinforcing flanged disks in the interior thereof. The corrugations provide conduits for the passage of electrical conductors to an externally maintained control box.

Abstract: Systems and methods for disposing and supporting a solar panel array are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system for supporting a solar panel array includes the use of support columns and cables suspended between the support columns, with the solar panels received by solar panel receivers that are adapted to couple to the cables. The solar panel array may then be used to provide power as well as shelter. Cooling, lighting, security, or other devices may be added to the solar panel array.

Abstract: A lightweight structure for space application is deployable from a compact bundle of interconnected struts into a plurality of tiled substantially rectangular bays. Each bay preferably comprises four or six hinged strut members having substantially rectangular cross sections, such that a solar or other suitable blanket may be compactly nested within the bundled struts. In one aspect of the invention, the blanket is attached to two opposed strut members of a six-member strut bundle, such that the blanket is unfolded during deployment of the strut bundle into a substantially rectangular bay. In another aspect of the invention, the blanket is attached to, and held against, a single strut in a strut bundle. After the strut bundle is deployed into a substantially rectangular bay, the blanket is spread across the bay via a cable mechanism or other deployment mechanism.

Abstract: A thin film semiconductor device such as a photovoltaic device is fabricated on a lightweight substrate material which is affixed to a layer of material which is in turn supported by a carrier. Following the fabrication of the device, the carrier is removed such as by an etching process, leaving the layer of material adhered to the substrate. The adhered layer provides a balancing force to the back side of the substrate which minimizes or eliminates the tendency of the semiconductor device supported on the opposite side of the substrate to cause the substrate to curl. Also disclosed are devices and structures made by this method.