Abstract: The present invention is a solar powered flat, electroluminescent lamp night light adapted to be placed upon or attached to a window sill. The night light has a vertical upper portion which retains a solar cell unit that faces toward the window when the night light is placed on the window sill. The night light also has a horizontal middle section which is either adapted to rest upon a window sill, thereby balancing the night light in place, or adapted to attach the night light directly to the a portion of the window sill. The night light also a vertical lower portion which houses a flat, electroluminescent sheet light source. When the night light is placed upon a window sill, the flat, electroluminescent sheet light source faces into the room and illuminates the area of interest. The solar cell unit is configured to receive sunlight and convey electrical current to the flat, electroluminescent sheet light source and to an energy retaining device.

Abstract: The invention provides method and apparatus for supplying electrical energy to battery powered equipment of the type utilizing removable batteries.

Abstract: A photovoltaic module that serves as a shingle, tile or other building material that may be placed onto the exterior of a structure. The photovoltaic module generates a voltage when exposed to light and this voltage may be directed onto transmission lines of a power utility and/or into an external battery that may serve as a source of power for the building on which the photovoltaic shingles are laid. The practice of the present invention provides for a variety of mechanical and electrical connectors for securing together the photovoltaic modules and/or for connecting the photovoltaic modules to the exterior structure. Furthermore, the structure of the modules is such that the modules are automatically electrically connected together when laid on the building.

Abstract: A solar cell module in which the reduction in conversion efficiency is small, and a passive solar heating system using the solar cell module. The solar cell module has a solar cell covered with a filler. A back reinforcement member, the filler and a back insulating member larger than the solar cell are superposed on the non-light-receiving side of the solar cell. The back insulating member has openings corresponding to pierced portions of the solar cell module at which the solar cell module is affixed to a roof. A greater amount of clean energy is obtained with the system. The solar cell is used without any additional base to limit the reduction in the conversion efficiency of the solar cell.

Abstract: A photovoltaic roofing shingle includes a strip of roofing material having an overlap portion, and a plurality of tab portions depending therefrom and separated by embossed inactive regions. Each of the tab portions includes a photovoltaic generating device affixed thereto. An encapsulating layer covers the top surface of each strip and wraps around the exposed and side edges. The photovoltaic devices are electrically interconnected, and each photovoltaic shingle member includes a hair of electrical terminals for delivering power from said photovoltaic devices. In use, the shingle members are affixed to a roof so that the tab portions of one row of shingles cover the overlap portion of an adjoining row. Electrical interconnection may be made through the roof to the inside of the building, or to a point atop the roof.

Abstract: A solar power system including a thermal-storage tank installed in the ridge of the roof of a building, and a plurality of solar collector units covered over the roof and outside wall of the building and connected to the thermal-storage tank, wherein each solar collector unit comprises a transparent cover plate with photovoltaic cells for converting the radiant energy of sunlight into electric power, a rear mounting rail, a front mounting frame for engagement with the rear mounting rail of another solar collector unit, a heat-absorber plate having a collector tube connected to the thermal-storage tank, and a lateral mounting frame for connection to another solar collector unit over its heat-absorber plate by screws.

Abstract: A photovoltaic module comprises a photovoltaic panel having a top edge and a bottom edge. An exterior frame structure attached to edges of the photovoltaic panel defines an upwardly open groove extending along at least the top and bottom edges of the panel to direct rain water away from underside of the panel.

Abstract: Solar roof for motor vehicles with a solar generator having solar cells for supplying power to a power consumer and/or a battery and with a D.C. converter for impedance matching between the solar generator and the consumer and/or battery. The D.C. converter is a flat module and is integrated into the solar cell carrying roof panel.

Abstract: The roof of a solar house includes a plurality of crosspieces arranged parallel to each other, and a solar battery roofing for the solar house is fixed to the crosspieces. The solar battery is formed of a plurality of solar cells connected in series to form a solar cell row arranged parallel to the crosspieces. In case a plurality of solar cell rows is used, the solar cell rows are arranged parallel to each other, and the first and last solar cells in the rows are electrically connected to each other.

Abstract: A dirty water treating apparatus includes a container having air permeability in which a porous material is placed. Aerobic bacteria are implanted onto the porous material. Dirty water is passed through the porous material while air is forcibly passed through the porous material from an air compressor powered by a solar generator. The dirty water treating apparatus is placed in an aquarium in which water is circulated. The apparatus continuously cleans waters, thereby providing an environment suitable for fish.

Abstract: A roof with solar battery Y is structured to support the solar battery module 3 on the base panel 2 by means of cores 6 and frame 11. The solar battery can be ventilated by air flow through ventilation layer 1A between the solar battery module 3 and the base panel 2. The frame 11 is designed to provide waterproofing by the seal members 12 and 14 inserted into the large C portions 13 and 15. The respective solar battery module 3 is surrounded by the square shaped frame 32 to prevent water seepage by means of extending frame member 39. The single roof panel 1 has a predetermined number of solar battery cells 10 to obtain the necessary voltage.

Abstract: A portable power supply that includes at least one solar panel assembly that is capable of producing an electrical output through the conversion of solar energy to electrical energy. The power supply further includes power transmission means which is typically an electrical cable that will supply the power output of the solar panel to an electrical energy consuming device such as a portable computer or a battery for use therewith. The portable power supply further includes a case having at least two opposing side panels and includes solar panel assembly attachment means permitting the mounting of a solar panel assembly. The solar panel assembly typically comprises a photovoltaic panel attached to a backing panel. Backing panels utilized in the solar panel assembly may also be foldable, thus protecting the attached photovoltaic panel within the folded sections of the backing panel.

Abstract: A display is constructed having a flat screen consisting of pixels which may be individually excited to create an image. The pixels are excitable between a light reflective and a transparent state in which they are visible in the reflective state and dark in the transparent state. A solar panel is mounted behind the flat screen to receive light transmitted by the transparent pixels. The solar panel converts the light to electric power to supplement the battery operation of the device.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method and apparatus for converting energy to hydrogen gas using an electrolyzer and a metal alloy hydride tank for hydrogen storage, wherein a passive load matching device between the energy source and the electrolyzer maximizes hydrogen output, and the electrolyzer and the metal alloy hydride tank operate at mutually low pressure, near ambient, such that pressurization of the system is not required.

Abstract: A roof panel with solar batteries and a roof structure with solar batteries, which can improve water blocking between adjacent solar batteries integral with the roof panel. On the inclined surface of the roof Y is disposed the base panel 2, on which support rails 37 (each having a two-stage structure with a gutter and a cylindrical section 37a and 37b) are provided. A plurality of solar battery panels 3, provided with a frame (having an upper and a lower frame member 6 and 7 and paired vertical frame members 8) therearound, are each provided between paired support frames 37. The lower frame member 7 has an extension 25 extending from its side nearer the eaves N and covering the upper frame member 6 of the adjacent panel 3. The base and solar battery panels 2 and 3 are made integral with one another in the factory to be supplied as a roof panel 1 with solar batteries. With this structure, water is blocked around the solar battery panel 3 by the frame (6 to 8) therearound.

Abstract: A photovoltaic roofing assembly comprises a roofing membrane (102), a plurality of photovoltaic modules (104, 106, 108, 110) disposed as a layer on top of the roofing membrane (102), and a plurality of pre-formed spacers, pedestals or supports (112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122) which are respectively disposed below the plurality of photovoltaic modules (104, 106, 108, 110) and integral therewith, or fixed thereto. Spacers (112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122) are disposed on top of roofing membrane (102). Membrane (102) is supported on conventional roof framing, and attached thereto by conventional methods. In an alternative embodiment, the roofing assembly may have a tapered profile for orienting modules (204, 206, 208, 210) in a direction of increased sun exposure. Other embodiments include the use of phase change material for temperature regulation, and incorporating an insulation block into the assembly as a means of spacing and of building thermal control.

Abstract: A base member for a roof is composed of a flexible high molecular material film and thin film solar cell modules formed thereon, and a finish member placed on the base member is a tile made of reinforced glass. The solar cell modules of 280 V output are sequentially formed with gaps on a long roll-shaped flexible film substrate and the substrate is cut in accordance with the size of the roof at the gaps between adjacent modules and placed on the roof board. The output terminals exposed at the cut gap portion are connected to each other or to an inverter.

Abstract: A solar cell module and an installation method thereof are disclosed. The solar cell module comprises an active solar cell element and a filler holding element disposed on said active solar cell element, said active solar cell element and said filler holding element being encapsulated with a filler between a transparent film and a reinforcing member, the-solar cell module being characterized in that the reinforcing member, the filler, and the transparent film are bent in the direction opposite to the surface to be illuminated with the sunlight, wherein there is no filler holding element at least in the bent portion. The solar cell module arrangement in the above-described manner can be installed without degradation in conversion efficiency of the solar cell module. Furthermore, the total weight and total size including installation materials are very small.

Abstract: A solar panel unit includes a solar panel (10) supported for rotation about a frame (13) and driven around the frame (13) by an electric motor (14). Radiation sensors (22) and (23) have their planar axes equally and oppositely off-set from the planar axis of the panel (10). Signals from the sensors (22) and (23) are monitored and used to control the operation of the motor (14) such that the panel (10) moves as the sun moves during daylight hours and the panel remains with its planar axis at right angles to rays of the sun throughout the day.

Abstract: A self-sufficient apparatus and method for conveying solar heat energy from an attic (20) under a solar energy absorbing roof (10) to a place remote from the attic. A synergetic combination of in-attic air controlling devices such as fans and motorized vents (40a, 40b) are energized by stored electrical energy generated by a sunlight-to-electrical-energy panel (14), located adjacent the roof. The panel, preferably a photovoltaic array, has a limited size, providing just sufficient electrical energy to operate the electrical elements of the apparatus. It will not impair the heat absorbing capability of the roof and can be located where it is not aesthetically objectionable. In a preferred embodiment a forced-air-to-water heat exchanger (30) provides solar heated domestic hot water (90). In another embodiment solar heated attic air is drawn into a fan (50) and forced via a duct to another part of the building (100).

Abstract: A photovoltaic roofing shingle includes a strip of roofing material having an overlap portion, and a plurality of tab portions depending therefrom. Each of the tab portions includes a photovoltaic generating device affixed thereto. The photovoltaic devices are electrically interconnected, and each photovoltaic shingle member includes a pair of electrical terminals for delivering power from said photovoltaic devices. In use, the shingle members are affixed to a roof so that the tab portions of one row of shingles cover the overlap portion of an adjoining row. Electrical interconnection may be made through the roof to the inside of the building, or to a point atop the roof.

Abstract: A retractable awning includes a weather protective articulated slat system for protecting the awning when in a retracted position with a solar cell panel incorporated into an articulated slat and connected to a battery for charging the battery.

Abstract: A vehicle's restraint system for passengers such as airbags, belt tighteners or similar devices to protect the passengers in case of a crash against injury including an electronic sensor circuit for the release of the restraint system, only upon the occurrence of predetermined conditions. An energy supply is provided for supply of the electronic sensor circuit with a proper and set voltage value to be monitored at least from time to time and compared with a reference voltage wherein at least an emergency voltage supply is to be held in a steady state such as at the set voltage value to provide power to electrically ignite a pyrotechnic or propellant charge if triggered by said electronic sensor circuit, in the case that one or more of said predetermined conditions evaluated in said electronic sensor circuit by comparing it with chosen threshold values are fulfilled, indicating that a crash event is detected by an acceleration responsive signal generator in said electronic sensor circuit.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a solar cell module panel which is mounted on a roof of a building and united with roof rafters at low cost, whose installation and maintenance can be easily done, and which has long term reliability, especially with respect to protection of the solar cell modules. The solar cell modules of the solar cell module panel are mounted and fixed on the roof rafters, wherein at least one side edge portion of each solar cell module is held and fixed between the roof rafter and a solar cell module fastener member fixed to the roof rafter.

Abstract: A phosphene generating toy can be operated either by the user's blowing in a tube or a solar powered motor. In either case a spinning shade oscillates sunlight on the closed eyelids of the user, thereby generating phosphenes. A mini-flute also produces sounds. Safety features to preclude accidental gazing directly into the sun with open eyes include child proof shutters and a spring loaded shutter.

Abstract: An apparatus for converting light energy into electric energy and storing the same, which comprises a photoelectric conversion unit having an element that generates an electromotive force by irradiation of light and a unit for storing electric energy generated by the photoelectric conversion unit. The element comprises a ferroelectric crystal having a bulk photovoltaic effect such as BaTiO.sub.3, lead lanthanum zirconate titanate (PLZT) or the like. Light energy is converted into electric energy having a voltage ranging from 10 V to several kV with high reliability to be efficiently stored.

Abstract: A solar module design comprises a specially-designed substrate material with interconnected solar cells and topcoat laminated to the top surface by known polymer encapsulation methods. The substrate, which may be extruded in one piece or fabricated, comprises a twin-wall profile with ribs connecting the upper and lower surface. The twin-wall shape connected with ribs results in a substrate material which is very strong, stiff, and rugged, yet lightweight; and which allows the modules to be used as the roof's finished surface, yet allows outside air to pass under the photovoltaic cells to help cool them. Also, the substrate incorporates means of interconnecting modules and fastening them to roof decking or framing members and simplified means of connecting the modules to an external electrical circuit. The features of the substrate and module design result in modules which can be very large in format, yet which are very light and rugged compared to current art.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an unattended lawn mowing system in which multiple solar powered self propelled, random motion lawn mowers are used singly or in combination to mow a pre-defined lawn area. The mowing zone is defined as a region of grass bounded by naturally occurring or man made obstacles of infinite variation including, but not limited to, high grass, flowers, trees, fences and lawn edging. Each mowing unit is a solar powered, self-propelled, random motion lawn mower which comprises a frame with a set of drive and coaster wheels on the frame. A set of batteries and battery powered electric motors are mounted on said frame with output means from the motors to power drive wheels and a cutting mechanism on the frame. Photovoltaic panels are mounted on said frame to receive solar rays and convert them into electrical power to charge the batteries with means for controlling the orientation of the solar panels so as to face the direction of greatest solar intensity.

Abstract: A solar cell roofing assembly (10) consists of a roofing membrane (12), a plurality of insulation blocks (14, 16, 18, 20, 22) disposed as a layer on top of the roofing membrane (12), and a plurality of photovoltaic modules (24, 26, 28, 30, 32) disposed as a layer on top of the insulation blocks. In a second embodiment, the photovoltaic modules (24, 26, 28, 30, 32) are bonded to the top surface of the insulation blocks (14, 16, 18, 20, 22) to form a shop-assembled, 2-layer integral solar roofing module. The photovoltaic modules serve the purpose of electric generator, and in addition, the multiple purposes of ballast, UV blocker, and weather protector for the insulation block and roofing membrane below. The insulation blocks (14, 16, 18, 20, 22) have interlocking side surfaces. The photovoltaic modules (24, 26, 28, 30, 32) are electrically connected edge to edge.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for injecting a fluid such as a chemical corrosion inhibitor into a pipeline is provided. A solar panel is supported by a support structure in the vicinity of the pipeline location for converting solar energy to electrical current. The solar panel is electrically connected to an electrical storage battery through a voltage regulator that regulates the current generated by the solar panel to the battery for charging or recharging the battery. An electrically operable fluid pump is electrically connected to the battery through a selectively operable relay that controls electrical current from the battery. A fluid inlet of the pump can be connected to a reservoir of a fluid and a fluid outlet of the pump to a pipe. The relay can be selectively controlled to operate the pump, thereby pumping fluid from the reservoir into the pipe. In another aspect, the relay can be selectively preprogrammed with a central processing unit.

Abstract: A solar power operated computer comprised of an upper casing and a base pivoted together, the upper casing and the base each having a solar cell assembly respectively hinged thereto to collect the radiant energy of sunlight and convert it into electric power for charging respective storage batteries. The upper casing with its solar cell assembly may be detached from the base for independent use as a touch-control type or pen base computer.

Abstract: An insect trap utilizes an electrically energized light for luring the insects to a trapping device and powers the light from a solar or artificial light powered electric source. The electric source comprises an array of photo-voltaic cells, a rechargeable battery which in the presence of light is caused to be charged and in the absence of light is caused to be discharged.

Abstract: An arrangement for covering doors, windows or like type room closure devices having translucent regions, in particular a curtain or a roller blind, is provided, at the side thereof which faces towards the room closure device, with photovoltaic cells or a photovoltaic layer and the same is connected to a current storage means.

Abstract: Hearing aids include rechargeable batteries and contacts accessible from outside of the hearing aid casing for the battery. A charging case includes solar cells mounted on the charging case for outputting energy for charging the batteries in the hearing aids. The charging case may include silos for supporting an over-the-ear hearing aid or a recess for receiving a volume control on the hearing aid.

Abstract: A solar cell module including at least one photovoltaic device, covering material for covering the at least one photovoltaic device, and a frame for covering the end portions of the covering materials. The covering materials are provided, in the end portions thereof, with a recess or a penetrating hole. The frame is provided with a projection adapted to engage with the recess or penetrating hole.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a solar driven novelty device including a frame having a first side and a second side; a solar panel attached to the frame and in an adjustable relationship thereto; a rotatable disk disposed on the frame; a motor in operative connection with the solar panel and also in operative connection with the disk, wherein the motor causes the disk to rotate in response to electricity generated by the solar panel and transmitted to the motor; and suction cups for attaching the frame to the surface, the suction cups being adjustable to permit either the first side of the frame or the second side of the frame to be adjacent to the surface.

Abstract: A solar power-operated, construction work warning lamp which is consisted of a base secured inside a lamp guard and covered by a top cover and a bottom cover to hold a solar cell assembly and a light emitting assembly, wherein a light intensifier is fastened to the base on the top and secured in place by a framed seat and an enclosing wall, to intensify the intensity of light given by the solar cell assembly. The light intensifier is consisted of two symmetrical condenser lens assemblies connected into a cylindrical shape covered around the light emitting assembly to hold a plurality of condenser lens for intensifying the intensity of light given by the light emitting elements on the light emitting assembly.

Abstract: A photovoltaic roofing system includes a plurality of roofing panels each having a photovoltaic device thereupon and each including an electrical connector engageable with a connector on another panel. The panels includes upstanding flanges and a batten and seam roof construction may be readily configured by interconnecting the panels, fastening them to the roof and covering adjoining flanges with the battens.

Abstract: An illuminated float comprises a plurality of solar generators, a storage battery for storing therein the electrical energy generated by the solar generator, a light-emitting element which emits the light by the energy supplied from the storage battery, a homing device which emits a high-frequency beacon displayed on the ships display screen, and an energy control means which permits the supply of electrical energy from the storage battery to the light-emitting element and the homing device only when ambient illumination drops below a predetermined level.

Abstract: A photovoltaic window assembly suitable for use in building and vehicular applications. The window assembly includes an optically-transmissive substrate having one or more photovoltaic devices disposed thereon. A decorative template having cut-outs coextensive with each of the photovoltaic devices is disposed on the substrate such that the photovoltaic devices extend through the cut-outs. A window opening is also formed in the decorative template for transmission of light. An encapsulating layer is formed on the substrate, solar cells and decorative template to protect the solar cells and assembly from environmental damage and deterioration.

Abstract: A solar powered light comprises a cover containing a fresnel lens structure (also referred to as a fresnel lens cover) which is disposed directly above and adjacent to a photovoltaic cell thereof. The fresnel lens cover comprises a continuous and smooth outer surface and a prismatic inner surface having a plurality of prismatic means arranged in concentric circles to bend incoming radiation, especially at high angles of incidence, such as during winter months or at the beginning or end of a day, toward an optical axis thereof. The prisms have different thicknesses and are arranged in different angular configurations to accomplish the desired bending at each point of the cover. In a preferred embodiment, additional prismatic means are formed on a peripheral portion of the outer surface to cover a photodetector used for sensing the absence of light and triggering circuitry to turn on the solar powered lights.

Abstract: An array of solar cells for supplying electrical energy to a building (e.g., for operating air-conditioning equipment) is mounted in a window fitting, which comprises a pair of transparent glass panes between which a window blind (e.g., of the venetian blind type) is mounted. Solar cells are secured to slats of the window blind so as to be exposed to sunlight incident thereon.

Abstract: A device which is a translucent boat or ship cleat constructed of polyurethane. The cleat is molded as one piece and can be either clear or have color added such as international orange. The cleat has a recess in its base in which a light source can be placed. Lighting such as incandescent, neon or LED may be used. The cleat can be powered from an external source either AC or DC. The cleat can also have solar cells placed in its horns which can store energy in storage cells mounted with the cleat at its base for powering LED during non-sunlight hours. The illuminated cleat makes it easy to locate the mooring for a boat in the dark. It also makes the cleat visible for the safety of persons walking on the mooring structure. The polyurethane construction provides for a lighter, more durable, and less abrasive device fo boat moorings.

Abstract: Transparent pane for vehicles, in particular, a transparent cover for sliding roofs, lifting roofs and the like, with a transparent outer layer and a solar laminate lying flat against the inside of this outer layer. The active part of the solar laminate is formed of a first subsection lying in the outer edge area of the pane which is made of crystalline semiconductor material, and a second subsection that is made of an amorphous semiconductor material.

Abstract: In-the-ear type hearing aid has a rechargeable storage cell permanently connected and permanently situated within its shell, and a solar cell carried on its back plate and facing outward. The solar cell provides power to energize the hearing aid amplifier while the device is worn and also reenergizes the storage cell under average ambient conditions. The solar cell serves as a noise filter to reduce the background noise apparent to the wearer. A semi-transparent cover or door cosmetically conceals the solar cell while the aid is being worn, but permits some ambient light to penetrate to the solar cell. For recharging, the door can be opened for full exposure on to the solar cell. A combination storage and reenergizing case is provided for the hearing aids.

Abstract: A thermoelectric module powered by a solar cell is used to cool a battery which serves as a backup power supply in a time-of-use power meter. Solar irradiation incident on the power meter containing the battery, of sufficient intensity to result in heating of the battery, concurrently causes the solar cell to generate an electric current. If the battery temperature rises above a predetermined level, the thermoelectric module cools the battery in dependence on the power generated by the solar cell.

Abstract: The instrumentation package is transportable to remote sites solely by a light helicopter. Accordingly, three skids are provided, each of which weighs less than 1,200 pounds. An instrument skid comprises a generally, horizontally disposed frame having jacks mounted on it for leveling. Instruments and control elements are also mounted to the frame, preconnected at the factory, and protected from weather. A separate battery skid is provided which is mounted on the instrument skid at the site. A solar array skid, the sloping roof of which comprises solar cells is separately transportable by helicopter to the site and is lowered onto and fastened to the instrument skid. The instrument skid preferably has a self-contained generator mounted thereon when it is transported to the site. An instrument and antenna mounting tower for telemetry, if desired, is broken down and carried within the solar array skid to the site and then mounted on the rear of the instrument skid and tied to the solar array skid.

Abstract: A solar panel for use in a roof mounted array of solar panels, each panel having ridges protruding outwardly and adjacent to the side edges for receiving a standing seam cap between side-adjacent panels. Each solar panel is formed as an integral structure having a photovoltaic module an edge of which is sealed by a base substrate. The base substrate is configured to have lipped top and bottom edges which interlock to form a watertight seal between top-adjacent and bottom-adjacent solar panels. The solar panel array can be mounted on a roof, in place of shingles or the like, to provide environmental protection for the interior of a building.

Abstract: An apparatus for containing liquids and pollution within a liquid drainage comprising a first conduit, a second conduit, a liquid barrier, a means for lifting, and a means for sensing pollution. The second conduit is smaller in relative diameter than the first conduit and is positioned so that the second conduit outlet end is located within the first conduit. The second conduit has a flexible portion of its length which permits the outlet end of the second conduit to be lifted while the inlet end of the second conduit remains stationary. The liquid barrier guides fluid flow into the second conduit inlet during normal flow, guides fluid flow into the second conduit and liquid flow over the top of the liquid barrier and into the first conduit during floods and retains liquid during normal flow when the outlet end of the second conduit is lifted. The apparatus further comprises a means for lifting which is electrically connected to a sensing means.

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.