Abstract: A solar powered cooling apparatus for a vehicle brake system utilizing a solar cell panel mounted within a vehicle front bumper to selectively actuate a blower motor located within an air duct housing. The air duct housing is connected to the front bumper of which has a plurality of forward openings with filtering screens so as to direct cool air flowing from the openings to the associated disk brake rotor. A plurality of openings are also formed on the top panel of the bumper of which the solar panel is operatively associated and where the openings can be adjusted via a slide plate operative through a push-pull cable located in a passenger compartment of the vehicle.

Abstract: A pole mounted self contained solar powered strobe light utilizing ultra violet rays from the sun and moon for charging its batteries and employing a cylindrical housing open at one end for fitting over the top of a vertically mounted pole. Batteries are insertable in the other end of the housing which are covered by a cap for closing this end of the housing. The cap has mounted on it a strobe light connected to the batteries and covered by a transparent magnifying lens.

Abstract: Tile plates of standard roofing tile dimensions can engage over opposite edges of photovoltaic modules mounted on these plates to form roofing assemblies. The photovoltaic modules preferably are frameless and are anchored by formations on their edges to formations along grooves of the tile plates receiving them.

Abstract: In a portable measuring instrument using as a power source a group of solar batteries in which a plurality of solar batteries are series-connected on the same plane, respective light receiving windows are made to be substantially equal in area to one another, and each of the light receiving windows surrounds the outer periphery of other light receiving windows adjacent thereto, whereby, even if part of the light which irradiates the light receiving windows of the solar batteries is screened by a hand or other holding means for operating and holding the portable measuring instrument, it is avoided that only a specific light receiving window is screened, so that a current of the group of solar batteries can be efficiently produced.

Abstract: A roof structure 10 comprises panels 14 and 16 of desired length each having a galvanized steel supportive layer which has side supporting flanges 22 interconnected together to form the roof assembly 10. The mid portion 20 of each panel has a photovoltaic surface made from amorphous semiconductor material which is laminated onto the galvanized steel with a protective plastic transparent polymer coating laminated above the photovoltaic material. The laminated galvanized steel and the photovoltaic layers are rolled into a coil and transported on site where it is unrolled, cut to size having the flanges formed to construct the rigid panels and having the panels assembled together via clips 26 and weather-proof battens 32. The photovoltaic surfaces are connected together via electrical conduit 34 coupled through couplings 88 under the panels and between the frame members 30.

Abstract: A solar shed is disclosed comprising a secure shelter for battery-powered electric tools, such as lawnmowers, trimmers, and leaf blowers, and further comprising photovoltaic cells built into the sloped roof of the solar shed. The electricity generated by the photovoltaic cells is routed to the batteries of the electric tools in the interior, so that the batteries are recharged for later use. The solar sheld is marketed in prefabricated components, having a square floor plan so that the walls and the roof can be oriented in any of four directions with respect to each other, in particular, so that the slope of the roof can be oriented to face a generally southward direction, regardless of where the user wishes to locate the shed on the site. This will allow for adequate exposure of the photovoltaic cells to sunlight. The increase in height in the interior of the solar shed resulting from the sloped roof allows the walls to be shorter and therefore more manageable for easier assembly.

Abstract: A solar electric generating system is provided which directly generates D.C. current from ambient light to charge a rechargeable battery through a blocking diode, and a wiring harness adaptable to connect to the existing internal circuitry of conventional existing navigation bouys. This invention is designed to be used as an add on to convert existing navigation bouys that now use throw-away batteries to more economical rechargeable batteries at a very low cost.

Abstract: A self-contained solar powered marking light. The marking light may be utilized to delineate certain predetermined boundaries without effectively illuminating the areas. The marking light automatically illuminates when output power from the photovoltaic cells contained therein fall below a predetermined level and automatically extinguishes when the voltage from the photovoltaic cells reaches a predetermined level. The marking light includes a lens which is closely coupled to a source of light and which includes a textured surface for diffusing the light to cause the lens to appear to glow when the source of light is illuminated. An electrical circuit is coupled between the photovoltaic cells and a battery and includes the source of light and switching means for automatically illuminating the light dependent upon the relative relationship between the voltage of the photovoltaic cells and the battery voltage.

Abstract: A method of operating a secondary battery including a stack of secondary cells operable, in the presence of electrolytes, in a charge mode charging electrical power from a source of electrical power and in a discharge mode discharging the charge electrical power from the secondary cell. A part of the electrical power from the electrical power source is used intermittently in the charge mode to provide intermittent circulation of the electrolytes through the secondary cell. The secondary cell continues to operate in the charge mode with the electrolytes residual in the secondary cell after each interruption of circulation of the electrolytes. A part of the electrical power charged in the secondary cell is used intermittently in the discharge mode to provide intermittent circulation of the electrolytes through the secondary cell. The secondary cell continues to operate in the discharge mode with the electrolyes residual in the secondary cell after each interruption of circulation of the electrolytes.

Abstract: A glass substrate for a solar cell, comprising a glass sheet having a curved surface shape and a transparent electroconductive film formed on the concave surface side of said glass sheet.

Abstract: A semiconductor device includes laminated photoelectric conversion elements each having a semiconductor thin film carrying out the photoelectric conversion, the respective semiconductor thin film having a relationship L.ltoreq.1/.alpha.(.lambda.) when incident light is of a wavelength .lambda., the semiconductor thin film is of an absorbtion coefficient .alpha.(.lambda.) with respect to the light of the wavelength .lambda. and the carrier collecting length is L, whereby the optimum combination of the incident light wavelength and the sensitivity of the device can be obtained to realize a high photoelectric conversion efficiency.

Abstract: A solar cell panel assembly for supplying power to a motor-driven screen apparatus mounted for movement between an inside glass plate and an outside glass plate spaced therefrom in a double-glazed sliding door unit includes a belt-like sheet of solar cell panels having its bottom edge portion disposed via a plurality of mount members so as to be held in contact with the lower inside portion of the outer glass plate, extending in the horizontal direction along the lower inside portion of the outer glass plate, and inclined in such manner that its top end portion extends toward the inner glass plate. Preferably, the solar cell panel is provided with a glass panel mounted in tight contact with an outer light receiving surface of the solar cell panel, and transparent resin having a refractive index equivalent to that of glass is filled by potting in a wedge-shaped space formed between the glass panel and the inner surface of the outer glass plate.

Abstract: A portable electric appliance is provided with a solar energy accumulator. The accumulator is integrally mounted on the electric appliance when the appliance is desired to operate or be transported. When the portable electric appliance is not used, the accumulator is removed from the appliance and moved to a bright place.

Abstract: A solar cell panel assembly for supplying power to a motor-driven screen device incorporated in a double-glazed sliding door unit, comprises a strip-like solar cell panel provided in a lower portion of an inner surface of an outer windowpane of the door unit so as to abut on the inner surface of the outer windowpane in facing engagement therewith; and an elongated solar collector or Fresnel lens a rear surface of which abuts on a lower portion of an outer surface of the outer windowpane in front of the strip-like solar cell panel. The solar cell panel assembly further comprises: a strip-like sunlight reflector provided below the elongated solar collector, which reflector has a reflective surface facing upward.

Abstract: This invention relates to a dual bed cathodic protection system with automatic controls and method of use utilizing an impressed cathodic protection anode assembly powered through a solar power supply in conjunction with a sacrificial cathodic protection anode assembly which is known in the prior art to use a corrosion element to emit the necessary electrical current to protect a structure assembly from the effects of corrosion. The dual bed cathodic protection system with automatic controls includes (1) a solar power supply to receive sun power from a solar panel; (2) a ground bed assembly which may either be a deep well or surface type; (3) a system automatic control assembly operable to control selected use of either an impressed or sacrificial protection anode assembly; and (4) a protected structure buried within the ground to receive an electrical current to prevent corrosion thereto.

Abstract: Shingles are formed of a top sheet and a bottom sheet of plastic confining solar energy conversion means therebetween. The sheets are sealed together about a perimeter to form flanges for fastening in overlapped order to a roof. The contour of the shingles is domed to provide for better solar energy conversion efficiencies. Insulation and support members disposed along an underside of the dome sructure provide support to the assembly and insulate the roof. Decorative structure and shingles of this nature permit a roof surface which does not belie its nature as a solar heating system. The plastic sheets may either form flow passageways for a solar heatable fluid or may encompass photovoltaic cells to form unitary shingle-solar conversion structure.

Abstract: A kit for providing solar power to a battery powered paging device. The kit includes a pair of mounting posts which are affixed to the pager and a module having strips of solar cells which is demountably attached to the mounting posts. The pair of strips of solar cells are attached in series to connecting terminal strips by biasing contact springs.

Abstract: A self-contained photovoltaic powered light which is a stand alone unit. The solar cells which power the light are assembled and maintained within the top, or upper, portion of the self-contained unit. The solar cells are encapsulated within a resiliently deformable material to provide for contraction and expansion of the solar cells while at the same time providing protection from the elements for the assembly.

Abstract: A powered mower has a cordless electric power source defined by a rechargeable battery and a solar panel. The rechargeable battery is connected to a direct current motor for driving the mower blade and drive system for the powered mower. The solar panel supplies the rechargeable battery with additional voltage and current to assist the battery in maintaining its functional operating level.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved solar powered sign including one or more solar panels used to charge batteries which power various components of the sign. The sign may include a rotary display which is electrically powered and may also include a lamp. The sign may be mounted on a base facilitating easy transport.

Abstract: An intermitently operable non-fuel-consuming power generator, such as a photovoltaic array or a wind generator, is connected through a control circuit to a battery for charging the same and supplying current to a time-wise substantially constant electrical load. An electrical generator, connected to an intermitently operable prime mover, charges the battery and supplies current to the electrical load when the prime mover is operated. A sensor circuit senses at least one electrical parameter, such as a failure of the power generator to produce current, for controlling the operation of the primer mover (i.e., starting of the prime mover). The sensor circuit also senses a second electrical parameter, such as the charge level of the battery. The prime mover is made operational only if the battery capacity is less than a predetermined threshold level when the power generator fails to produce current.

Abstract: A solar battery system characterized by at least one solar cell for converting light energy to electrical energy which is stored in the system is provided. The solar cell is formed of a semiconductor selected from the group consisting of single crystal, polycrystalline and amorphous substrates and is coupled in parallel to an energy-storage capacitor, which capacitor is also connected in parallel with a loading circuit. The capacitor is formed of compressed particles of activated carbon which stores electrical energy charged to it by the solar cell at a selected voltage level. A diode is coupled in series to an output terminal of said solar cell to prevent the flow of a reverse current to the solar cell during discharge of the capacitor to the loading circuit.

Abstract: A solar energy collector device is disclosed for selectively collecting an electrical energy and a thermal energy at the same time from a solar energy. The device comprises an inorganic-and-metal composite in the form of a roof tile or a wall-forming member which includes a solar battery exposed to sun rays and a heat medium passageway disposed underneath the battery. The density of distribution of a particulate inorganic substance within a metal mass is varied through the areas of the tile or wall member so as to effectively collect the respective energies without adversely affecting the interior conditions of a building in which the device is installed.

Abstract: A solar powered lawnmower is disclosed comprising an electric motor, a rechargeable battery pack, and a panel of photovoltaic cells built into the handle of the lawnmower. The angle of the handle is arranged to ensure that the photovoltaic cells will receive nearly maximal solar exposure when the lawnmower is left in the sun with the angle of the handle approximately perpendicular to the sun's rays. In case of insufficient photovoltaic recharging, the solar powered lawnmower comprises the means to employ standard AC current to recharge the battery pack. The solar powered lawnmower is used to mow a lawn without generating air pollution or excessive noise pollution.

Abstract: A solar battery system for a vehicle comprises a solar battery mounted on a body of the vehicle, an actinometer provided on the body for detecting the quantity of solar radiation supplied to the body, a controller for comparing an output of the solar battery with a detection output of the actinometer to obtain a result of comparison and generating an alarm signal when the result of comparison is out of a predetermined condition, and a warning device provided in a cabin formed in the vehicle for giving a warning in response to the alarm signal obtained from the controller.

Abstract: A transportation system including a solar energy collecting monorail structure formed with a photovoltaic surface layer having a solar energy converting means for converting the collected solar energy to electrical energy. A power distribution means for distributing stored energy to transit vehicles being propelled along the monorail structure or distributing excess energy to a remote power utility source. The monorail structure includes means for propelling a transit vehicle according to magnetic principals associated with transverse flux motors. The system also includes a computer controlled, elevation compensating monorail structure extrusion machine comprising a fabrication chamber which continuously fabricates the monorail structure along a monorail construction right-of-way.

Abstract: A solar roofing assembly is provided including a roofing membrane, a plurality of insulation blocks disposed as a layer on top of the roofing membrane, a plurality of pavers disposed as a layer on top of the plurality of insulation blocks, and a plurality of photovoltaic cells, each supported on a respective paver. In a second embodiment, each paver has a respective photovoltaic cell bonded to the top surface of the paver and has a respective insulation block bonded to the bottom surface of the paver forming a shop assembled, three-layer unit. The insulation block is also tapered with one side edge being thicker than an opposite side edge so that rain water will run off the top surface of the photovoltaic cell. The three-layer paver units are arranged on top of the roofing membrane, so that the top surfaces of the photovoltaic cells face south or in the direction of increased sun exposure. The insulation blocks have interlocking side surfaces.

Abstract: A recharging network for a solar powered construction light, including a solar powered battery, that recharges a storage battery at a constant rate and can be selectively operated to burn the light continuously to produce a continuous light or to burn intermittently to provide a flashing light. The network allows a solar cell to recharge the storage battery when sunlight is impinging upon the solar cell to provide virtually maintenance free and long term operation of the construction light during the dark or twilight hours when construction lights are commonly employed to warn motorists of road hazards.

Abstract: A light rechargeable battery includes a rechargeable cell having an elongated, tubular case characterized by a longitudinal axis, and a pair of terminals extending therefrom. Two or more thin-film solar cells fabricated on a flexible substrate and interconnected in a series circuit between the terminals are circumferentially positioned around the rechargeable cell on the exterior of the case. A blocking diode is connected in the series circuit with the solar cells. The solar cells are coupled to the terminals by bus bars. A transparent shrink wrap cover secures the solar cells to the case of the rechargeable cell.

Abstract: This plant spinner is designed to rotate potted plants, so as to evenly expose them to the rays of the sun. Primarily, it consists of a simulated flower that is adhered to a window pane, and the petals of the flower are provided with a multiple number of solar cells that convert the rays of the sun to electric current that drives a motor that slowly rotates a potted plant that is suspended from the plant spinner. Each solar cell in the flower is capable of powering a separate plant spinner, and the rotation of such potted plants provides for better growth because of them being evenly exposed to the rays of the sun.

Abstract: A controlled zone defrosting system is provided for disbursing electrical energy, according to predetermined priorities, to a plurality of defrosting devices, formed of an electrically conductive glass coating material, in an automobile or the like. The defrosting devices could, for example, be effectively located to melt ice formed on such areas as the driver and passenger sides of a windshield, a rear window, etc. The disbursement of electrical energy may, in addition to being dependent on preselected priorities, be made dependent on a number of factors such as time, temperature and the remaining amount of energy. The electrical energy may be supplied by an associated automobile's battery, an independent battery, or an electrical energy generating mechanism such as a photovoltaic device. Available remaining electrical energy may be monitored and, as it is diminished, be disbursed only to zones given top priorities.

Abstract: A solar powered illuminated yard maker including a solar powered battery recharging network that recharges a storage battery at a constant rate and can be selectively operated to burn continuously to produce a continuous light or to burn intermittently to provide a flashing light. A solar cell recharges the storage battery in the light when sunlight is impinging upon the solar cell to provide virtually maintenance free and long term operation of the illuminated yard marker during the dark or twilight hours.

Abstract: A solar-powered system for supplying large quantitites of usable power consists of an array of photo-voltaic cells which drive an electrolysis generator in which water is converted into oxygen and hydrogen gases. The oxygen and hydrogen gases are initially stored and then mixed in stoichiometric amounts and delivered by means of a water-cooled discharge nozzle to a burner chamber in which the gases are recombined. High pressure steam produced by the oxygen/hydrogen recombination is discharged from the burner to a turbine generator. Condensed water is collected from the turbine and used as distilled water for domestic uses or returned to the electrolysis generator.

Abstract: A solar charging lamp is set forth wherein a twelve-volt direct current lamp is illuminated by means of a wet-cell battery recharged by solar cells integrally secured to said lamp. An optional cord for attachment to an automotive cigarette lighter is available to enable charging of an automotive battery by means of the solar cells or alternatively, illuminate the lamp during continuous overcast conditions from an auxiliary battery source, as in an automoile. A photo-electric eye is operative to automatically illuminate the light in evening hours with an optional infra-red sensor operative to activate by operation in response to physical movement proximate the infra-red sensor.

Abstract: A gas sensor comprises a photovoltaic cell which, upon exposure to light, develops a photovoltage or photocurrent which varies as a function of the type of gas sorbed. The cell includes in order a conductor, an N-type light-absorbing semiconductor, and a thin light-transmitting gas-absorbing metal Schottky layer having electrical properties which vary with the type of gas sorbed therein.

Abstract: A solar lighting device for garden or driveway according to this invention transforms solar energy into electric energy using a solar energy absorbing plate and stores the electric energy into an electric battery. A light sensor turns on the lighting circuit during dark hours. The solar lighting device of this invention comprises a solar energy absorbing plate, a shell, an electric battery, a focusing reflector, a lens, and a set of connecting links. The shell has two openings, one opening is inclined with respect to the shell and adapted for the insertion of the solar energy absorbing plate. The other opening is for inserting the lens. The shell holds an electric battery, a board, and a focusing reflector. Also the solar energy absorbing plate engages with the inclined opening of the shell using lugs formed on the rim of the plate, and the frame of the lens is pivotally mounted on the other opening of the shell.

Abstract: A ballpoint pen of conventional size and shape has a movable ball point that is pressed upwardly in the direction of the housing of the pen when a mark is made. Means is provided for normally biasing the ballpoint outwardly of the housing. However, when the ballpoint is pressed against a writing surface, the refill cartridge having the ball at the lower end thereof is moved upwardly to close a normally open switch which connects a solar cell array in circuit with an electronic counter that counts each time the switch is closed. Controlled by the counter is a liquid crystal display that visually indicates the total number of counts. A gravity switch is contained in the housing and is actuated to reset or clear the counter in preparation for counting a succeeding group of marks when the pen is inverted.

Abstract: A vest garment to be worn by persons working out of doors and which has an array of photovoltaic cells mounted on the back panel thereof. The individual cells are connected in series relationship with one another across a pair of output terminals which are brought out through a belt attached along the waistband of the vest to an output jack. The voltage developed across the photocell array may then be used to charge rechargeable batteries suspended from the belt or, alternatively, they be coupled to an input jack of a power tool having a self-contained rechargeable battery whereby charging current is generated when the vest is being worn out of doors.

Abstract: A self-luminous buoy thereof comprises a solar generator, a battery for storing therein the electrical energy generated by said solar generator, a light emitting element which emits the light by the energy supplied from the storage battery and an energy control means which permits the supply of the electrical energy from said storage battery and an energy control means which permits the supply of the electrical energy from said storage battery to said light-emitting element only when illumination drops below a predetermined level.

Abstract: A portable photovoltaic battery recharger for simultaneously recharging a plurality of rechargeable batteries having different sizes and respective optimum charging current levels. The battery recharger includes a plurality of photovoltaic solar cells having a plurality of different selectively chosen surface areas for generating the respective optimum charging current levels when insolated, and battery receptacles for holding the plurality of rechargeable batteries in a recharging position. The plurality of solar cells are connected to the battery recepatcles to transmit the charging current generated by each photovoltaic cell to respective ones of the plurality of battery receptacles such that batteries held in the battery receptacles are charged at respective optimum charging current levels.

Abstract: This invention relates to a battery charger which supplementally charges a secondary battery such as a battery and so forth in an automobile with use of a solar cell in which a diffusion-blocking layer is formed between a semiconductor and a reverse electrode for the purpose of preventing deterioration of a semiconductor layer, and in which electric potential of the secondary battery can be measured and displayed, and in which the solar cell can be securely provided in a compartment of an automobile in such a manner that the solar cell always faces sunbeams, and which can be freely attached and detached.

Abstract: An improved warning light blinker includes an upper housing member including an integral pedestal extending from an upper surface thereof, the upper housing member being transparent, the upper housing member also including an opening in a lower portion thereof. A lower housing member mates within the upper housing member through the opening. Battery captivating members for captivating a battery so as to substantially eliminate free air from contacting a substantial portion of a battery's outer surface area is provided. A flasher circuit periodically supplies electrical energy to a light bulb. A light dispersing lens is coupled to the pedestal. In the preferred apparatus one or more solar rechargeable batteries are situated within the battery captivating members. The pedestal includes a tapered channel which narrows close to an upper end thereof and a light bulb socket engages in an interference fit near the upper end.

Abstract: A flexible solar skin which absorbs radiant solar energy to convert it into electricity, made possible through a conductive plastic, which conceals a conductive fiber, whereby the fiber directs generated electricity to a terminal in the form of a contact strip hemmed or fused alongside the material. Additionally, an air vehicle covered with this photovoltaic material to collect solar radiant energy during flight which is converted into electricity to assist the propulsion system of the vehicle.

Abstract: A solar-powered beacon comprises a water-tight caisson housing a battery for storing electricity produced by solar cells atop the beacon. An electronic circuit within the caisson controls operation of the beacon. The caisson material acts as a heat sink for the solar cells, and insulation is provided below the cells to further protect the electronic components.

Abstract: A solar energy motor comprises a plurality of photovoltaic elements, such as solar cells, and armature coils unistructurally secured to a rotatable axis. The photovoltaic elements and the armature coils are electrically connected such that DC electromotive forces generated sequentially in the photovoltaic elements on which light beams are made incident are applied to the armature coils. Currents thus generated in the armature coils produce a torque in the presence of magnets.

Abstract: A solar cell array is disclosed having a support structure, cover, and mechanically joined solar cell panels. Each panel, or group of panels, is electrically connected across a separate battery and a diode is provided to provide separate charging of each battery and to prevent flow of current to the solar cells from the batteries.

Abstract: An integrated solar cell and battery are described, together with a process of making the same. The integrated solar cell and battery are made by employing thin film deposition techniques on a substrate. Preferably first, a thin film solar cell is deposited on the substrate, as for example, by sputtering. This step is immediately followed by the deposition of a thin film battery, either onto the previously deposited thin film solar cell, or onto the back side of the substrate. The deposition process lends itself to automated production. The process includes the thin film deposition of series-connected arrays forming different types of integrated solar cells and batteries, depending on their electrical connections so as to vary the respective current and voltage characteristics of the resultant integrated units.

Abstract: A ballpoint pen of conventional size and shape has a movable ball point that is pressed upwardly in the direction of the housing of the pen when a mark is made. Means is provided for normally biasing the ballpoint outwardly of the housing. However, when the ballpoint is pressed against a writing surface, the refill cartridge having the ball at the lower end thereof is moved upwardly to close a normally open switch which connects a solar cell array in circuit with an electronic counter that counts each time the switch is closed. Controlled by the counter is a liquid crystal display that visually indicates the total number of counts. A second switch is actuated by gravity to reset or clear the counter in preparation for counting a succeeding group of marks.

Abstract: A modular solar generating system is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of self-contained solar modules which are interconnectedly disposed in an array about the perimeter of a rigid framework housing a sign, light, or other load means necessitating electrical power during the night time hours. The modules themselves consist of a photovoltaic plate sandwiched between two suitable cover plates, including in this arrangement one or more continuous conductors. The modules are linked together by way of male and female plug connectors whereby the array may then be electrically connected to a battery. When the modular system is arranged in this fashion and exposed to incident sunlight for an appropriate period of time, power may be provided to a sign, light or other electrical apparatus for nighttime use.

Abstract: A contoured solar generator whose solar cells and their associated electrical terminals and connecting lines are embedded in a laminate including at least the solar cells, an elastic thermosetting adhesive foil and a glass pane. To adapt the solar generator to a given external contour or to fit it into a given contour, the solar generator is configured as a curved laminate including at least one-dimensionally bent solar cells.