Encapsulated Or With Housing Patents (Class 136/251)
  • Patent number: 9035172
    Abstract: A crack resistant solar cell module includes a protective package mounted on a frame. The protective package includes a polyolefin encapsulant that protectively encapsulates solar cells. The polyolefin has less than five weight percent of oxygen and nitrogen in the backbone or side chain. In other words, the combined weight percent of oxygen and nitrogen in any location in the molecular structure of the polyolefin is less than five. The polyolefin also has a complex viscosity less than 10,000 Pa second at 90° C. as measured by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) before any thermal processing of the polyolefin. The protective package includes a top cover, the encapsulant, and a backsheet. The solar cell module allows for shipping, installation, and maintenance with less risk of developing cracks on the surfaces of the solar cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: SunPower Corporation
    Inventors: Sung Dug Kim, Nicholas Boitnott
  • Publication number: 20150129017
    Abstract: A lamination stack for etching solar cells is provided. At least two solar cell wafers are attached to corresponding backplane sheets which are larger than the solar cell wafers. Release layers larger than the solar cells and smaller than the backplane sheets are positioned on the backplane sheets on the opposite side of the attached solar cell wafers. The backplane sheets are bonded together along the exposed peripheral boundary formed by the release layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: David Dutton, Pranav Anbalagan, Karl-Josef Kramer, Mehrdad M. Moslehi
  • Publication number: 20150129021
    Abstract: A solar module is disclosed that has one or more integrated electrical connectors. In addition, a solar module electrical connector holder is disclosed that has resilient wing portions and axial portions that mate with a first connector window in a frame of a solar module and allow the position of an electrical connector to be moved one of vertically, horizontally and angularly with respect to the frame. In addition, a solar module frame is disclosed that has a first connector window in one of the side frame members that is capable of accepting an electrical connection so that the electrical connection is integrated into the frame of the solar module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2015
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: Barry Cinnamon, David Baker, Wilson W. Leong, Alexander W. Au
  • Publication number: 20150129016
    Abstract: There is provided an improved roof solar panel, embodying a photovoltaic panel mounted on a frame for easy installation onto a conventional sloped roof and integration with conventional roof coverings. Such panel includes a roof covering mounting surface on an outside support of the frame, a photovoltaic panel mounting surface on an inside support of the frame, and when installed on the roof, a retainer trim for securing the roof covering and photovoltaic panel mounted on said supports while mounting to the frame, The frame also serves to provide means for securing the panel onto roof trusses. Integration with the conventional roof covering provides, inter alia, an attractive low profile with improved water shedding, wind resistance, and thermal regulation properties. The invention also relates to a kit comprising, inter alia, said roof solar panel, and to a method of installing said roof solar panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: Robert RICHARDSON
  • Publication number: 20150129019
    Abstract: A solar cell module includes a first solar cell, a second solar cell and an electrically connecting member. The first solar cell has a first connecting side having at least one first protruding portion and at least one first recess portion that are adjacent to each other. The second solar cell has a second connecting side having at least one second protruding portion and at least one second recess portion that are adjacent to each other. The shape of the first protruding portion matches the shape of the second recess portion while the shape of the first recess portion matches the shape of the second protruding portion. The electrically connecting member electrically connects the first upper electrode layer of the first solar cell and the second lower electrode layer of the second solar cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: Chien-Rong HUANG
  • Publication number: 20150129020
    Abstract: A junction cover for a photovoltaic (PV) panel module system that includes a PV panel mounting structure, a rail, a PV module with a junction box and wiring extending between the rail and the junction box. The junction cover encloses the junction box and wiring and includes a lid and a wire housing. The lid has a plurality of sides and is releaseably attached to the junction box. The wire housing includes a top plate having proximal and distal ends, first and second sides and first and second side walls extending downwardly from the first and second sides. The top plate extends from a first side of the lid and slopes downwardly to the distal end. The top plate and side walls define an interior and an opening at the distal end. When the lid is attached to the junction box, the wiring extending between the rail and the junction box is within the wire housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2015
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: LUMOS LSX, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher Klinga, Scott Franklin
  • Publication number: 20150129018
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a multilayer film for the encapsulation of photovoltaic cells, comprising: (a) at least a first, outer thermoplastic polymer layer;(b) a second thermoplastic polymer intermediate layer arranged between the first and the third layer, and (c) a second, outer thermoplastic polymer layer, wherein at least one of layers (a), (b) or (c) is opaque.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: Johan Willy Declerck, Koen Hasaers, Kristof Proost
  • Publication number: 20150129014
    Abstract: A folding photovoltaic mounting structure and mounting method thereof is disclosed. A folding module, comprising: a panel having a front side and a backside; a first support block and a second support block disposed on the backside of the panel adjacent to two sides of the panel respectively; and a first support member and a second support member, the first support member connected with the first support block via a first hinge, and the second support member connected with the second support block via a second hinge, wherein the first support member and the second support member can fold and rotate about the first hinge and the second hinge respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: Yunhua Shu, Ahua Jiang, Chuanguo Fu
  • Patent number: 9028952
    Abstract: Disclosed is a multilayered weatherable film for a solar cell, which has superior elongation change rate, strength change rate and haze and thus is suitable for use in a solar cell, and includes a hard layer having a polyester or copolyester polymer resin and a soft layer having polybutylene terephthalate containing polytetramethylene ether glycol, which are regularly or irregularly laminated in a multilayer form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: SKC Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Heyoung Suk Park, Gwan Hyung Lee, Cheon Yong Joo, Soo Hee Kim
  • Patent number: 9027288
    Abstract: Systems and methods for supporting a solar panel array are disclosed, with embodiments specifically directed to spanning bodies of water such as aqueducts, canals, or other waterways. Cable truss assemblies are used to support panel receivers and solar panels mounted over the panel receivers. The cable truss assemblies are supported on groups of columns or other vertically extending support members anchored in the ground. Cable anchor lines may supplement anchoring and support of the installed solar panel array. Embodiments of the system include various combinations of supporting cables making up the cable truss assemblies. A method is also provided for construction of the solar panel array. Lengthy and continuous spans of the solar panel array can be installed over waterways by use of the cable truss assemblies. The solar panel arrays produce power, and simultaneously reduce evaporation from the waterways, resulting in conservation of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: P4P Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Steven J. Conger
  • Publication number: 20150122311
    Abstract: A solar cell module includes a solar cell panel including a light receiving surface, a rail-like holding member joined to a rear surface on the opposite side of the light receiving surface in the solar cell panel, the holding member reinforcing and holding the solar cell panel, an assisting member fixed to an end in a longitudinal direction of the holding member within the holding member, the assisting member assisting the holding of the solar cell panel by the holding member, and a screw that fixes the assisting member to the holding member. The assisting member has a bent shape bent in a direction opposed to the light receiving surface from a portion erected to the light receiving surface side through an edge of the solar panel from a position on the rear surface side fixed to the holding member by the fixing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Daisuke Echizenya, Tetsuo Funakura, Atsushi Michimori, Hiroo Sakamoto, Taisuke Sueda, Hirotoshi Yonezawa, Koji Shimasaki
  • Patent number: 9024180
    Abstract: Provided is a parallel-type tandem organic solar cell. The parallel-type tandem organic solar cell includes: a first electrode; a first photoactive layer formed on the first electrode; a conductive polymer electrode formed on the first photoactive layer; a second photoactive layer formed on the conductive polymer electrode; a second electrode formed on the second photoactive layer; and a connection unit oriented in the direction ranging from the second electrode toward the first electrode so as to electrically connect the first electrode and the second electrode. According to the present invention, the energy conversion efficiency of the cell is improved by the increased photocurrent. Further, the solar cell of the present invention is advantageous in that an intermediate electrode can be made from solution-processable conductive polymers, and each element of the solar cell has a parallel structure, thereby simplifying manufacturing processes and reducing manufacturing costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Kwanghee Lee, Junghwan Kim, Sung-Heum Park
  • Patent number: 9022019
    Abstract: The Modular Multifunctional Solar Structure is an innovative design in the field of Renewable Energy. This system, the schematic diagram of which is shown in FIG. 2, will collect the energy from the sunlight by using lightweight rotary thermal or bivalent photovoltaic solar receivers (A), sandwiched between Support Columns (B) which house the technical services. Because of its modular concept, this structure allows: an easy and progressive assembly in places exposed to the sun, with negative angles of down to 90°; and a microprocessor controlled solar tracking device, with alternative fixed or manually adjustable settings. These features solve the traditional problems associated with solar energy collectors, which include: a fixed position which is confined to specific angles, or a vertical layout, both of which are inefficient in terms of energy recovery; large dimensions and heavyweight collectors, which may need ungainly support structures; and wasted space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Amilcar Luis Jeronimo Lopes
  • Patent number: 9021752
    Abstract: A solar panel is described. The solar panel has at least a support layer and, arranged one on top of the other, a first intermediate layer, at least one solar cell, a second intermediate layer, and a front pane. The solar panel also has a first edge reinforcing layer and a second edge reinforcing layer, at least one terminal housing, and at least two collecting conductors which connect the solar cell to the terminal housing in an electrically conductive manner. The support layer has a portion that projects over the periphery of the front pane. The first edge reinforcing layer is arranged above the peripheral projection and has a cutout. The second edge reinforcement layer is arranged above the first edge reinforcement layer and has an opening. The collecting conductor is located in a cut-out section and in an opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Glass France
    Inventor: Holger Schumacher
  • Patent number: 9023745
    Abstract: A photovoltaic cell, for example a thin-film photovoltaic cell, having a substrate glass made of aluminosilicate glass, has a glass composition which has SiO2 and Al2O3 as well as the alkali metal oxide Na2O and the alkaline earth oxides CaO, MgO, and BaO, and optionally further components. The glass composition includes 10 to 16 wt.-% Na2O, >0 to <5 wt.-% CaO, and >1 to 10 wt.-% BaO, and the ratio of CaO:MgO is in the range of 0.5 to 1.7. The aluminosilicate glass used is crystallization stable because of the selected quotient of CaO/MgO and has a transformation temperature >580° C. and a processing temperature <1200° C. Therefore, it represents a more thermally stable alternative to soda-lime glass. The aluminosilicate glass is used as a substrate glass, superstrate glass, and/or cover glass for a photovoltaic cells, for example for thin-film photovoltaic cells, in particular those based on semiconductor composite material, such as CdTe, CIS, or CIGS.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Schott AG
    Inventors: Jörg Hinrich Fechner, Christof Kass, Franz Ott
  • Publication number: 20150114450
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for levitating and conveying sand, dust or melting snow deposits off the surface of objects, in particular solar panels, mirrors, glass objects and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: George McKarris
  • Publication number: 20150114453
    Abstract: A solar cell module includes first and second solar cells and an interconnector for electrically connecting the first and second solar cells. The first solar cell and the second solar cell each include a plurality of first electrodes formed on a back surface of a semiconductor substrate, a plurality of second electrodes formed on the back surface of the semiconductor substrate, a first auxiliary electrode connected to the plurality of first electrodes, a second auxiliary electrode connected to the plurality of second electrodes, and an insulating member positioned on back surfaces of the first auxiliary electrode and the second auxiliary electrode. Each of the first solar cell and the second solar cell is formed as an individual integrated type element by connecting one semiconductor substrate and one insulating member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Taeki WOO, Daehee JANG, Bojoong KIM, Minpyo KIM
  • Publication number: 20150114454
    Abstract: A solar cell module and a method for manufacturing the same are disclosed. The solar cell module includes a first solar cell and a second solar cell each including a plurality of first electrodes formed on a back surface of a semiconductor substrate, a plurality of second electrodes which are formed in parallel with the plurality of first electrodes on the back surface of the semiconductor substrate, a first auxiliary electrode connected to the plurality of first electrodes, and a second auxiliary electrode connected to the plurality of second electrodes, and an interconnector for electrically connecting the first auxiliary electrode of the first solar cell to the second auxiliary electrode of the second solar cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Taeyoon KIM, Minpyo KIM, Hyeyoung YANG, Taeki WOO
  • Publication number: 20150114451
    Abstract: An apparatus, method, and system, the apparatus and system including a flexible microsystems enabled microelectronic device package including a microelectronic device positioned on a substrate; an encapsulation layer encapsulating the microelectronic device and the substrate; a protective layer positioned around the encapsulating layer; and a reinforcing layer coupled to the protective layer, wherein the substrate, encapsulation layer, protective layer and reinforcing layer form a flexible and optically transparent package around the microelectronic device. The method including encapsulating a microelectronic device positioned on a substrate within an encapsulation layer; sealing the encapsulated microelectronic device within a protective layer; and coupling the protective layer to a reinforcing layer, wherein the substrate, encapsulation layer, protective layer and reinforcing layer form a flexible and optically transparent package around the microelectronic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Benjamin John Anderson, Gregory N. Nielson, Jose Luis Cruz-Campa, Murat Okandan, Anthony L. Lentine, Paul J. Resnick
  • Publication number: 20150114452
    Abstract: This invention relates to photovoltaic modules wherein a polyethylene composition is used as an alternative, in whole or in part, to traditional ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) resins in at least one layer. The polyethylene compositions are especially useful in the encapsulant and/or backsheet layers of photovoltaic modules. The polyethylene compositions comprise units derived from at least one C4 to C6 alpha-olefin comonomer, and have densities of 0.86 g/cm3 to 0.91 g/cm3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventors: Scott C. Solis, Danny Van Hoyweghen, Ashley Kropf
  • Publication number: 20150115869
    Abstract: A portable, modular solar array. The array includes a support structure configured to support a plurality of solar panel modules in a side-by-side co-planar arrangement. The support structure can be configured to support the modules in an elevated position to provide an overhead structure that shades an underlying area. The solar panel modules include solar panels mounted on a frame in a planar configuration. The frame includes a pair of hooked mounting flanges at a first end and a pair of slotted mounting flanges at a second end that enable mounting of the module between opposing support bars of the support structure. The modules are in electrical communication with a battery for storage of electrical energy generated by the solar panels. The frames and the mounting flanges are further configured to enable stacking of a plurality of the modules for storage or transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph O. Edmunds
  • Patent number: 9018513
    Abstract: A solar-cell module. The solar-cell module includes a plurality of solar cells that are electrically coupled together. The solar-cell module further includes an in-laminate-diode assembly electrically coupled with the plurality of solar cells. The in-laminate-diode assembly is configured to prevent power loss. The solar-cell module also includes a protective structure at least partially encapsulating the plurality of solar cells. In addition, the solar-cell module includes a plurality of external-connection mechanisms mounted to a respective plurality of edge regions of the protective structure. An external-connection mechanism of the plurality of external-connection mechanisms is configured to enable collection of current from the plurality of solar cells and to allow interconnection with at least one other external device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Apollo Precision (Kunming) Yuanhong Limited
    Inventors: Steven Thomas Croft, William James McColl, Shawn Everson, Jason Stephen Corneille, Kent Whitfield, Todd Krajewski, Darin Britwhistle
  • Publication number: 20150107648
    Abstract: A light converter for the photovoltaic conversion of light, having a support, a first semiconductor body, and a second semiconductor body. A first surface and a second surface are designed as receiving surfaces for light. An electrically conductive connector having a first arm and a second arm is provided, and the first arm is arranged on the first surface and interconnected with the first surface, and the second arm is arranged below the second rear surface and interconnected with the second rear surface. The second arm is at least partially embedded in a conductive material, the conductive material being arranged between the second rear surface and a second conductive track, and the second conductive track is formed as part of the support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2012
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: AZURSPACE Solar Power GMBH
    Inventors: Ruediger Loeckenhoff, Klaus-Dieter Rasch
  • Publication number: 20150107656
    Abstract: To provide a resin film having excellent ultraviolet shielding properties, further having excellent weather resistance, being hardly changeable in optical properties and mechanical properties over a long period of time, and being capable of being formed into a thin film of at most 20 ?m; a backsheet provided with the resin film; and a solar cell module provided with the backsheet. A resin film comprising a resin (A) containing a fluororesin; and, contained in the resin (A), composite particles (B) each having a cover layer containing aluminum oxide on the surface of a titanium oxide particle, and composite particles (C) each having a cover layer containing silicon oxide on the surface of a zinc oxide particle, wherein in (A), the proportion of the fluororesin is at least 50 mass %, in (B), the proportion of aluminum oxide is from 0.6 to 2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: ASAHI GLASS COMPANY, LIMITED
    Inventor: Hiroshi ARUGA
  • Publication number: 20150107653
    Abstract: An article of manufacture (400) includes a number of photovoltaic cells (102) forming a photovoltaic (PV) module circuit, with a first bus bar (106) electrically coupled to one extremity of the PV module circuit and a second bus (206) bar electrically coupled to a second extremity of the PV module. The bus bars (106, 206) are positioned on an opposing side of the PV cells (104, 204) from a light incident side of the PV cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: Abhijit Namjoshi, Marty Degroot, Leonardo Lopez, Rebekah Feist, Lindsey Clark
  • Publication number: 20150107654
    Abstract: A solar cell includes a first dielectric layer on the shaded side of the solar cell; and a second dielectric layer on the first dielectric layer. The second dielectric layer includes Hydrogen and the Hydrogen content in the second dielectric layer is measured such that a refractive index of less than 2.0 results for the second dielectric layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: Franziska Wolny, Gerd Fischer, Torsten Weber
  • Publication number: 20150107655
    Abstract: A high efficient solar energy collection apparatus comprises a body, which is in form of half-arc and disposed on a holder, and at least one solar energy panel, which is disposed on surface of the body. This invention efficiently solves the easy-malfunctioned, great setting up space required, high power consumed and uneconomical defects existed in the conventional solar tracking apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: MING-CHIEH WANG
  • Publication number: 20150107651
    Abstract: A design is described for solar panel that allows for modular installation and efficient removal of panels irrespective of the panel's relative location in an array arrangement. A system is provided that includes a plurality of modular panels (such as solar power panels). These panels are rimmed by frames featuring one or more exterior-facing, grooved channels. A first channel—which may be used to mount the panel, and which replaces traditional railing installation systems—and a second channel that is configured to allow movement of one or more panel splices used to secure the panels together. Integrated electrical connection interfaces are provided on opposite side surfaces of the frames to couple with the electrical connection interfaces of adjacent panels to establish an electrical path between them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: Barry CINNAMON, Wilson LEONG, David BAKER
  • Publication number: 20150107652
    Abstract: The invention relates to a solar panel module comprising a first and a second cover plate as well as at least one photovoltaic cell located between the cover plates. The first cover plate and the second cover plate are staggered with respect to each other, wherein a portion of the first cover plate near a first longitudinal side extends beyond a first longitudinal side of the second cover plate, while a portion of the second cover plate near a second longitudinal side, extending parallel to the first longitudinal side, extends beyond a second longitudinal side of the first cover plate, which is extending parallel to the first longitudinal side. The photovoltaic cell is located between the first longitudinal side of the second cover plate and the second longitudinal side of the first cover plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: MATE4SUN B.V.
    Inventors: Alfred Gerardus Van Hese, Esther Johanna Maria Gertruda Philipse-Verhagen
  • Patent number: 9012768
    Abstract: A multi-junction solar cell having a Ge or GaAs substrate, as well as a solar cell structure having several subcells deposited on the substrate, the substrate having peripheral side faces, and the solar cell structure having a peripheral circumferential surface, which runs spaced apart from the side faces. To prevent oxidation and penetration of moisture, the circumferential surface of the solar cell structure is coated with a protective, electrically insulating first coating under essential exclusion of the upper surface facing the rays, or that without encroaching on the solar cell structure, the side faces of the substrate are coated with a protective, electrically insulating second coating or that both the side faces of the substrate as well as the circumferential surface of the solar cell structure are coated with a third coating by essential exclusion of the upper surface facing the rays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Azur Space Solar Power GmbH
    Inventors: Gerhard Strobl, Victor Khorenko
  • Patent number: 9012764
    Abstract: A portable electronic device includes a housing including an outer surface and an inner surface. A core electronic component is configured to be provided inside of the housing. A transparent material is provided at the outer surface of the housing. A solar cell is provided on the inner surface of the housing and spaced apart from the transparent material by a predetermined distance. The transparent material is configured to receive light from an external source and direct the light to the solar cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: IXYS Corporation
    Inventor: Nathan Zommer
  • Patent number: 9012763
    Abstract: A stretchable photovoltaic device, a stretchable photovoltaic module and a carrier for facilitating formation of a stretchable photovoltaic device and/or module are provided. The stretchable photovoltaic device includes a stretchable part, at least one photovoltaic cell and a surface over which that at least one photovoltaic cell is disposed. The stretchable part has a given length that is operable to change in response to a force being applied to the device. The given length may, for example, elongate when the force causes the device to elongate. Alternative and/or additionally, the given length may compress when the force causes the device to compress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Sunlight Photonics Inc.
    Inventors: Sergey V. Frolov, Michael Cyrus, Allan J. Bruce
  • Publication number: 20150101655
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a photovoltaic module is disclosed. The apparatus includes a clamp assembly, where the clamp assembly includes a clamp and a fastener engageable with the clamp. The clamp includes a sharp portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Applicant: Unirac, Inc.
    Inventors: Nathan SCHUIT, Jason MAYFIELD
  • Publication number: 20150101653
    Abstract: A micro-inverter assembly includes a housing having an opening formed in a bottom surface thereof, and a direct current (DC)-to-alternating current (AC) micro-inverter disposed within the housing at a position adjacent to the opening. The micro-inverter assembly further includes a micro-inverter DC connector electrically coupled to the DC-to-AC micro-inverter and positioned within the opening of the housing, the micro-inverter DC connector having a plurality of exposed electrical contacts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Philip Michael Cioffi, Maja Harfman Todorovic, Michael Scott Herzog, Charles Steven Korman, Donald M. Doherty, Neil Anthony Johnson
  • Publication number: 20150101654
    Abstract: A solar panel array is provided. The solar panel array includes a plurality of support structures. The support structures are secured to a surface and may support panels, such as solar panels. A row spacer bar may attach a pair of support structures together. A clamp may clamp the panels to the row spacer bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventor: Richard Pantel
  • Patent number: 9003726
    Abstract: Provided are a system and method for a self-aligning system for mounting at least one photovoltaic module to a surface. The system includes a plurality of rails, each rail having a plurality of slideably attached friction locking retainers, and a plurality of anchors with fasteners extending opposite from friction locking retainers. A collapsible separator is coupled between the rails and structured and arranged to align the rails to each other at a pre-defined separation distance. Each friction locking retainer structured and arranged to laterally slide along a portion of each rail and remain as positioned by a user. Each friction locking retainer further structured and arranged to grip and permit adjustment of at least one photovoltaic module during mounting. An associated method of use is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: The RAQ, LLC
    Inventor: Jon Dennis Sader
  • Publication number: 20150090319
    Abstract: A solar cell module includes a solar cell module body (11), an adhesive (30), and a support rail (12) bonded and fixed by the adhesive (30) to a back surface of the solar cell module body (11), in which a spacer member (40) for ensuring the thickness of the adhesive (30) is arranged between the back surface of the solar cell module body (11) and an adhesive surface (12a1) of the support rail (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Mizuo, Takashi Hayakawa
  • Publication number: 20150090318
    Abstract: The present invention relates to novel foils for solar cells which feature improved hydrolysis resistance, and to the solar cells comprising said foils.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Applicant: Rhein Chemie Rheinau GmbH
    Inventors: Wilhelm Laufer, Armin Eckert
  • Patent number: 8991117
    Abstract: A modular tower assembly particularly suited for deployment in a parking lot area for collecting solar energy and precipitation includes left-hand and right-hand support modules, each having a base and a support pedestal having a bottom affixed to one end of the base. A solar panel mount has one end affixed to a pedestal top and cantilevered over the base. The left-hand support module pedestal is joined to the right hand support module pedestal such that the base of the left-hand module extends oppositely from the base of the right-hand module. A solar panel assembly is affixed to each of solar panel mounts. The modular assembly is particularly well-adapted for large scale collection of solar power for subsequent conversion to electrical power directly connected to a local power grid. Each tower is further adapted for the collection of fresh water from natural precipitation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Solur Terra, Inc.
    Inventors: Dorothy M. Walker, Stanley Mach
  • Patent number: 8993877
    Abstract: A solar battery module has a structure in which a solar battery cell formed by a transparent electrode, a power generating element, and a back electrode is formed on a substrate, and it is sealed with a resin material such as EVA. However, there has been a problem that water enters from a gap between the substrate and a resin sealing material, thereby resulting in the corrosion of the resin or the solar battery cell. A barrier layer made of inorganic substances having portions in contact with the substrate and the second electrode is provided. Here, the barrier layer is formed by laminating at least SiO2 and an inorganic layer having a lower density than SiO2, and the film having a lower density than SiO2 is directly formed on the substrate and the second electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Toray Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masamichi Yamashita, Takashi Iwade, Toyoharu Terada, Takayoshi Fujimoto
  • Publication number: 20150083198
    Abstract: According to an embodiment, a photovoltaic power generation system includes a photovoltaic array group and a windbreak. The photovoltaic array group includes a plurality of photovoltaic arrays, each of the photovoltaic arrays including a plurality of solar panels and a support structure which supports the solar panels. The windbreak is arranged at least partly around the photovoltaic array group and includes a plurality of windbreaker elements, each of the windbreaker having a horizontal section of an airfoil shape or a plurality of windbreaker elements each formed by combining a plurality of flat plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Tomohiko JIMBO, Biswas DEBASISH, Kei MATSUOKA, Yoshiaki HASEGAWA
  • Publication number: 20150083200
    Abstract: A glass substrate may be processed at high temperatures without substantially losing its thermal-strengthening characteristics or deforming. In some examples, the glass substrate exhibits an increased annealing point and/or softening point as compared to standard glass substrates. In some examples, the glass substrate includes a relatively high amount of CaO and/or MgO, and/or a relatively low amount of Na2O, as compared to traditional soda-lime-silica-based glass. Depending on the composition, the glass substrate may be useful, for example, to fabricate a glass-based solar cell that mates two substantially flat glass substrates together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Brad HICKMAN, Patrick D. WATSON, Kelly J. BUSCH
  • Publication number: 20150083197
    Abstract: The present invention is premised upon a system and method for an improved photovoltaic cladding device array with an interface member (500) for use on a building structure with other non-solar cladding materials (600). The interface member is disposed under a portion of the photovoltaic cladding elements (P) and includes a photovoltaic cladding element nesting portion and a building sheatin nesting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Applicant: DOW GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventor: DOW GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
  • Publication number: 20150083199
    Abstract: According to an embodiment, a photovoltaic power generation system includes a photovoltaic array group and a windbreak. The photovoltaic array group includes a plurality of photovoltaic arrays, each of the photovoltaic arrays including a plurality of solar panels and a support structure which supports the solar panels. The windbreak is arranged behind the photovoltaic array group and includes a curved surface configured to guide at least some of a wind, which blows from a back side of the photovoltaic array group toward the photovoltaic array group, to an upper side of the photovoltaic array group.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Tomohiko JIMBO, Biswas DEBASISH, Kei MATSUOKA, Yoshiaki HASEGAWA
  • Patent number: 8987584
    Abstract: A solar panel mounting system includes first and second mounting supports, at least one having a lower mounting ledge, and at least the other having an upper mounting ledge. At least two brackets each have a first platform coupled to the lower mounting ledge and a second platform spaced apart therefrom. Each bracket includes a first hinge portion with a curved channel and a first catch. A first frame, at a first end, has a panel gripping portion for gripping an edge of a solar panel oriented generally parallel to the lower mounting ledge, and at an opposing second end has a second hinge portion with a flange and a curved hook extending therefrom. The first hinge portion is configured to rotatably receive the second hinge portion. The hook is received in the channel and retained by the first catch and the flange is supported on the second platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignees: Advanced Solar Products
    Inventors: Lyle K. Rawlings, Christopher Rawlings
  • Publication number: 20150075591
    Abstract: Second wiring member includes a first wiring-member piece electrically connected to one of the solar cells of one of the adjacent solar cell strings, and a second wiring-member piece electrically connecting the first wiring-member piece to another one of the solar cell strings. First wiring-member piece includes wiring electrically connecting the solar cell and the second wiring-member piece to each other, a first insulating layer covering part of a surface of the wiring on a solar-cell side, and a second insulating layer covering part of a surface of the wiring on a side opposite from the solar cell. First portion of the wiring is exposed from the first insulating layer. Second portion of the wiring is exposed from the second insulating layer. First portion of the wiring is electrically connected to the solar cell, and the second portion of the wiring is electrically connected to the second wiring-member piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventors: Yoshiyuki KUDOH, Yousuke ISHII
  • Publication number: 20150075588
    Abstract: A photovoltaic mounting rail that includes an elongate bottom wall, a mounting support, an outer sidewall and one or more electronic components. The mounting support extends upwardly from the bottom wall to a top wall and extends between the first and second ends of the rail. The outer sidewall extends upwardly from the bottom wall to a distal edge and also extends between the first and second ends of the bottom wall. The outer sidewall is spaced apart from the mounting support and defines a service channel between the outer sidewall and the mounting support. The rail is adapted for attachment of a photovoltaic panel with electronic devices to the top wall of the mounting support and the connection of the electronic devices to electronic components located within the service channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: LUMOS LSX, LLC
    Inventors: Scott Franklin, Christopher Klinga, Brian Rafferty
  • Publication number: 20150075587
    Abstract: A device (1) for attaching a framed or unframed photovoltaic panel (P), includes holding members (2) capable of holding a photovoltaic panel by engaging with two parallel edges of the photovoltaic panel or indeed two parallel wings of the frame of the photovoltaic panel. The device includes the holding members including elements (3-6) engaging with the two parallel edges of the photovoltaic panel, or indeed with the two parallel wings of the frame of the photovoltaic panel, each element having a slot (7) intended to receive a wing of the frame of a framed photovoltaic panel, or indeed to receive the edge of an unframed photovoltaic panel, in such a way as to ensure the photovoltaic panel is blocked at least in the direction perpendicular to the photovoltaic panel and in a direction parallel to the plane of the photovoltaic panel and perpendicular to the axis of the slots.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: CIEL ET TERRE INTERNATIONAL
    Inventors: Manuel Veloso, Alexis Gaveau
  • Publication number: 20150075590
    Abstract: A system and apparatus are disclosed including PV modules having a frame allowing quick and easy assembling of the PV modules into a PV array in a sturdy and durable manner. In examples of the present technology, the PV modules may have a grooved frame where the groove is provided at an angle with respect to a planar surface of the modules. Various couplings may engage within the groove to assemble the PV modules into the PV array with a pivot-fit connection. Further examples of the present technology operate with PV modules having frames without grooves, or with PV modules where the frame is omitted altogether.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: Jack Raymond West
  • Publication number: 20150075589
    Abstract: A photovoltaic array mounting system for a low-slope roof having interchangeable first and second bases, with a short leg extending from the first base at a non-vertical angle and a long leg extending from the second base at a non-vertical angle, wherein the short and long legs support opposite sides of a photovoltaic module such that the module is held at a non-horizontal angle, and wherein rock-in connectors are provided on top of the short and long legs permitting fast and easy system installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Brian Atchley