Abstract: A solar module having a six layer stack structure, including the following layers: (i) first plastic layer (e.g., ETFE layer); (ii) second plastic layer (e.g., uppermost EVA layer); (iii) solar cell layer; (iv) third plastic layer (e.g., intermediate EVA layer); (v) fiber panel; and (vi) fourth plastic layer (e.g., lowermost EVA layer). This six layer module is detachably attached to a seventh layer of rip stop backing material layer (or other pliable fabric). Generally, many solar modules will be: (i) mechanically detachably attached to the larger flexible substrate member; and (ii) electrically detachably connected to each other. Sufficient space should be left between the modules on the substrate so that the substrate can be folded in the spaces between the modules.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed including: a trough shaped reflector extending along a longitudinal axis and including at least one reflective surface having a shape which substantially corresponds to an edge ray involute of the absorber.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention provide a solar cell module with a pressure sensitive adhesive member. The solar cell module with a pressure sensitive adhesive member can include a flexible solar cell module and a pressure sensitive adhesive member that is arranged so as to cover at least a portion of the rear surface of the flexible solar cell module. The storage modulus G? of the pressure sensitive adhesive member can be in the range of 0.02 MPa to 0.7 MPa under the use conditions of the flexible solar cell module. Another aspect of the invention can provide a support member integrated solar cell module including a solar cell module with a pressure sensitive adhesive member and a support member integrated with each other.

Abstract: A solar thermoelectric power generation system includes roofing products such as shingles with solar heat reflective areas and roofing products with solar heat absorptive areas. Thermoelectric power generating elements are provided in thermal contact with the solar heat reflective areas and the solar heat absorptive areas.

Abstract: A passive solar collector utilizes a support constructed of precisely machined foam to simplify the construction and calibration of the reflective surface. Further improvements include sensor-based positioning, and a receiver having inflow and outflow conduits adapted to improve thermal efficiency.

Abstract: Systems and methods for employing solar thermal energy for heating are disclosed. In some embodiments, a system is disclosed, in which a thermal-fluid-filled solar-thermal panel that has been sealed to prevent leakage of the thermal fluid. In other embodiments, a method of sealing a solar thermal panel is disclosed. In one preferred embodiment, the solar thermal panel is sealed by applying heat to one edge of the solar thermal panel, thereby melting the edge and forming a seal.

Abstract: A dual hybrid heating apparatus, method of assembly and operation to heat potable water in a tank by heat exchange with a fluid heated by free heat sources—waste heat from heat recovery units and insolation. Once a demand for heated potable water is satisfied, a controller issues commands that cause the fluid to bypass the tank and instead flow to a further heat exchanger. Temperature is monitored downstream—if excessive, then the fluid is sent to a heat dump. A further fluid is heated by heat exchange at the further heat exchanger and then routed to where a parabolic dish solar concentrator vaporizes it to turn a blade of a turbine generator to generate electricity. Heat is extracted from the vapor to form condensate, but the vapor also heats the condensate before being cooled by heat exchange with fluid cooled by a cooling tower.

Abstract: A solar module includes a front support, a back support, an active layer, and a protector.

Abstract: Apparatus (24), including a photovoltaic cell (22) and a concave primary reflector (26) configured to focus a first portion of incoming radiation toward a focal point (30). The apparatus also includes a secondary reflector (38), which is positioned between the concave primary reflector and the focal point so as to direct the focused radiation toward the photovoltaic cell, and which has a central opening (44) aligned with the photovoltaic cell. The apparatus further includes a transmissive concentrator (54), positioned so as to focus a second portion of the incoming radiation through the central opening onto the photovoltaic cell.

Abstract: A cord plate for a photovoltaic module is configured to receive one or more flowable sealants.

Abstract: A collapsible photovoltaic module mounting assembly framework for mounting a plurality of photovoltaic modules thereon, comprising a plurality of module support rails each configured to be attached to a portion of a photovoltaic module and a plurality of supporting beams. A first of the supporting beams is positioned under, and pivotally connected to, a first portion of the rails and a second of the supporting beams is positioned under, and pivotally connected to, a second portion of the rails. The supporting beams can be moved to a relative position adjacent to each other by moving the rails from a first orientation substantially perpendicular to the supporting beams to a second orientation substantially oblique to the supporting beams. Further, each supporting beam has a plurality of openings through which a hardware connector can be passed to connect the supporting beam to a support structure.

Abstract: The absorber pipe 10 according to the invention features a thermal opening 14, on which means are provided that reduce the radiation 26 emitted outwards from the absorbing surface 13 as a result of its operating temperature to an increasing extent as the operating temperature increases.

Abstract: System and method for interconnecting photovoltaic modules. The system includes a first photovoltaic module and a second photovoltaic module. The first photovoltaic module includes a first bus bar and a first interconnect tab connected to the first bus bar. The second photovoltaic module includes a second bus bar and a second interconnect tab connected to the second bus bar. The system for interconnecting photovoltaic modules additionally includes a module interconnector configured to interconnect the first and the second photovoltaic modules. The module interconnector includes an interconnection component and an interconnection protector. Additionally, the system for interconnecting photovoltaic modules includes a first connection component connecting the interconnection component to the first interconnect tab of the first photovoltaic module and a second connection component connecting the interconnection component to the second interconnect tab of the second photovoltaic module.

Abstract: A modular oversized solar array with a support structure is provided that reduces land costs as a percentage relative to the production of electrical energy from solar installations. Components of the solar racking array may be manufactured using existing steel manufacturing facilities. The array may be configured to be temporarily held in place at a first position to allow workmen to perform panel installation work from ground level. The array may then be lifted, via a crane, to a second position (or a final tilted position) to allow for further assembly. The array may accommodate various topographical features or span over other structures, be lifted to higher than normal array heights or span over greater distances. The solar racking structure design has elevated minimum heights allowing for dual use of the underlying ground, as well as more efficient dismantling, decommissioning and relocation of the solar array.

Abstract: The invention provides solar panel systems, which may be applied to surfaces such as residential rooftops. The invention also provides methods of installing solar panel systems. A solar panel system may comprise one or more module, which may comprise one or more solar panels and a rack. A solar panel may comprise a polymer, and may not comprise glass or a metal frame. The rack may include three footings and a plurality of adjustable fasteners that may enable the module to reside on an uneven surface. The rack may also include integrated electronic components and a microinverter. A module may yield a desired power output, and may generate performance monitoring data.

Abstract: For the production of vacuum elements, which optionally contain fittings in the form of at least one solar module (photovoltaic element) and/or a solar collector or a display element, negative pressure is produced in a space between two flat components, in particular translucent or transparent plates, such as glass panes that are bound together via a bead made of sealing material, such that an arrangement that consists of a first component provided with a bead and at a distance therefrom but parallel to the second component arranged therein, is introduced into a vacuum chamber and pressed under vacuum. In this case, an elevated temperature also optionally can be applied to laminate films provided between the components with the components and optionally present fittings.

Abstract: Structures and methods are disclosed regarding deployable structures with expandable longerons adjustably coupled with supporting structures such that an angle between the supporting structures can be adjusted. Such structures can include and/or be used for solar arrays, bridges, support structures, and more. These structures can be easily transported to a new location and deployed from the stowed configuration into a larger functional structure. In some embodiments these structures can use one or more longerons that can have two resting states: deployed and rolled.

Abstract: A solar collector (1) is provided having a cover (200), a back wall (300), and an absorber (100), the absorber being arranged between the cover (200) and the back wall (300) and defining, with the cover (200) and/or the back wall (300), a front and/or back cavity (14, 15), respectively. At least one spacer element (400) is provided, which extends from a front surface (102) of the absorber (100) to the cover (200) and/or from a back surface (103) of the absorber (100) to the back wall (300) and is connected or connectable directly to the absorber (100) and/or the cover (200). A method for manufacturing such a solar collector (1) is also provided.

Abstract: A photonics-based planar solar concentrator designed for collecting and guiding insolate radiation from one side to solar cells for energy conversion on another side is described. The planar solar concentrator consists of two sections. The top section is a matrix of micro-size wide angle solar concentrators. The bottom section is a planar lightwave circuit, which may be multi-layered. Planar lightwave circuits are used within a relatively thin cross-sectional thickness to guide light from micro-concentrators to output apertures on the opposite surface, such that solar cells can be located directly underneath the concentrator. The planar concentrator can deliver multiple times the normal sunlight intensity to standard silicon solar cells, thereby decreasing the number of cells required in a typical solar module. This planar solar concentrator is designed for use as the top optical layer of a standard flat panel solar module.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses to increase a speed of airflow through a heat exchanger are described. An optoelectronic device comprising a heat exchanger is coupled to an airflow accelerator. The airflow accelerator comprises a surface to guide the airflow towards the heat exchanger. An optical element is coupled to concentrate light onto the optoelectronic device. The size of the surface, position of the airflow accelerator relative to the heat exchanger, or both can determine increase in speed of the airflow. A photovoltaic (“PV”) system comprises rows of receivers; rows of optical elements to concentrate light onto the receivers, and rows of airflow accelerators coupled to the receivers to increase the speed of airflow through heat exchangers. The airflow can be deflected by an airflow accelerator towards a heat exchanger. A wind load can be reduced by the airflow accelerator.

Abstract: A light assembly includes a first sheet and a second sheet below the first sheet. The first and the second sheets are parabolic in shape. The first sheet has a dichroic surface. The second sheet has a reflective surface.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a solar absorber element forming a solar absorber of a solar receiver including providing a substrate, placing at least one projection within the substrate, and attaching the projection to the substrate with an attachment functionality operative to attach the projection to the substrate, thus defining the solar absorber element, the solar absorber being configured to allow a fluid to flow therein and be heated by solar radiation penetrating the projection of the solar absorber element.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use in a photovoltaic module of a film of a composition as a backsheet or as an encapsulant, this composition comprising, with respect to the total weight of the composition: from 1 to 99% of a polyethylene having an ethylene whose level by weight is greater than or equal to 80% chosen from the homopolymers of ethylene and the copolymers of ethylene and another alpha-olefin; from 99 to 1% of a polyolefin B, other than A, carrying a reactive functional group X chosen from the anhydride carboxylic acids and epoxides. The invention further relates to a photovoltaic module comprising the film of the composition according to the invention and also a process for the manufacture of this module.

Abstract: A solar absorber module is described. The module has a housing with a longitudinal axis with a first tapered housing section with a first, free end, and a second end with a reduced cross-sectional area compared to the first end, and with a second housing section adjoining the second end of the first housing section with a substantially constant cross-section over its length. The module also has a ceramic solar absorber element accommodated in the first end of the first housing section with a first surface that can be oriented toward the solar radiation with an axis of symmetry, and a second surface lying across from the first surface, wherein the solar absorber element has a large number of substantially straight channels connecting the first surface to the second surface. The solar absorber module is accommodated in the first end of the first housing section such that the axis of symmetry of the first surface is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the housing.

Abstract: An evacuated solar thermal conductive device including a conductive heat receiving element having a heat receiving surface and a heat sink portion disposed away from the heat receiving surface. A heat resistant enclosure that includes a top encasing that is at least partially transparent, and a bottom encasing that is joined to the top encasing to create an airtight seal. The bottom encasing having a cavity for receiving at least part of the heat receiving element such that at least part of the heat sink portion is in direct contact with the bottom encasing. A vacuum is provided in a space within the enclosure between at least a part of the heat receiving surface and the top encasing. Solar energy is transmitted to the heat receiving surface through the transparent top encasing and is transferred through the heat receiving element to the heat sink portion.

Abstract: This invention relates to solar engineering. The solar collector, which comprises a closed enclosure and an absorber 5 with channels for a liquid heat carrier, is designed in the form of a cylindrical portion having radius R1 and an axis coinciding with the axis of the central cylindrical portion 1 of the enclosure. The absorber 5 consists of thin-walled, interconnected modules. The modules are provided with bulges on the rear side thereof, in which channels with slots are made for arranging pipes forming heat-carrier flowing channels. In addition, the absorber can be designed in the form of a storage tank. The shape of the collector is optimized in such a way that the axes of the two lateral cylindrical portions 2 thereof are remote at distance L and the central cylindrical portion 1 is as remote as possible from a plane 3 tangential to the lateral cylindrical portions 2 at a distance H having the defined ratio of geometric parameters.

Abstract: An improved window system for a solar receiver provides a high level of impedance to thermal re-radiation while minimizing Fresnel losses. The window system is characterized by a bundled array of optically transmissive members. In further aspects, a solar receiver employing the window system and a method for manufacture are provided.

Abstract: Bifacial solar cell panels and associated systems are provided. The panels include a plurality of semiconductor cells connected in series. A reflector is used to reflect light towards the backside of the panel. A long axis of the reflector is arranged to be parallel to the current flow of the panel.

Abstract: A tensile structure is provided that includes a plurality of vertical support members, one of the vertical support members being taller than all others of the vertical support members. A plurality of securing members is connected between the vertical support members and ground. A membrane is attached to and extending between the vertical support members to form a roof of the tensile structure, such that one corner of the membrane is raised with respect to the other corners. A plurality of flexible photovoltaic devices are integrated with the membrane.

Abstract: A solar cell collector unit that materially contributes to a more efficient use and conservation of green energy includes a first metal sheet having alternating corrugated crest and valley portions on an upper surface and alternating open channels on an under surface and having a first dimension with a first peripheral edge about its entire perimeter. A second substantially flat metal sheet having a second dimension with a second peripheral edge about its entire perimeter and less than the first dimension. The first and second metal sheets overlie one another with flattened copper tubing disposed within the open channels and sandwiched there between, while crimping and folding the first peripheral edge over the second peripheral edge to form nested protuberances about its perimeter to provide stiffness and rigidity there about and forming a low cost single solar cell unit.

Abstract: A method for mounting photovoltaic modules includes calculating a structural load of at least one photovoltaic module based on an expected mechanical load so as to determine optimal attachment locations on the at least one photovoltaic module for attachment elements. The attachment elements are disposed at the determined attachment locations so that the attachment elements extend partially over a section of the at least one photovoltaic module. The at least one photovoltaic module is attached to the substructure via the attachment elements.

Abstract: A system for collecting solar energy using a plurality of energy collection elements arranged in a planar array within a stationary base structure, each comprising: an energy capture unit with optical means of focusing directional sunlight parallel to its axis onto one or more sunlight-to-electricity converters within itself, and means of sensing divergence of its axis from the sun's direction; and an angular positioning unit that orients said capture unit about two nested axes by slidably mounting two arcuate tracks in opposed and perpendicular arcuate slots, a convex track within said energy capture unit and a concave track within said base structure, each said slot equipped with a drive apparatus that engages its respective track and moves the positioner along it. The invention provides methods for determining the shapes and arrangement of such elements so as to maximize aperture efficiency while preventing collisions of adjacent elements.

Abstract: A solar tracking system for controlled movement of an array of solar panels and a method for installing the system is provided. The system includes an elongate drive shaft rotatable about a central axis and mechanically coupled to an array of solar panels which are rotatable about the drive shaft. A plurality of posts support the drive shaft along the length of the drive shaft, and a plurality of couplers couple the posts to the drive shaft in a manner that facilitates adjustment of the position and orientation of the couplers relative to the posts during installation of the system, and in a manner which minimizes the contact area between the couplers and the drive shaft to reduce the torque and power requirements of the system.

Abstract: Solar absorber (1) comprising at least one solar thermal absorber (2) and also at least one solar cell layer system (3) applied thereto and comprising a first layer (10) and a second layer (11) which is directly contact-connected to the first layer (10), wherein the second layer (11) is applied in planar fashion to the solar thermal absorber (2) either directly or indirectly.

Abstract: An energy conversion device includes a roofing material having a covered channel through which fluid can flow, the channel configured such that a ratio of the cross sectional area of the channel to the length of a perimeter of the cross section of the channel is less than 8 mm.

Abstract: Systems and methods for the automated installation of solar (photovoltaic or PV) modules is disclosed. Embodiments comprise a conveyor system configured to support and deliver a plurality of photovoltaic modules, and a clampless mounting framework comprising an upper rail and a lower rail, the upper and lower rails configured and spaced apart to receive and secure a photovoltaic module. The mounting framework does not require clamps, so once the modules are delivered into place, physical installation is complete.

Abstract: The invention relates to a solar panel assembly and a method of making thereof. The solar panel assembly includes a solar panel having a non-light receiving surface and a support member. The support member is attached to the non-light receiving surface of the solar panel by means of a hot melt moisture curable composition.

Abstract: An efficient solar panel system is mounted to a roof using various attachments and supports for solar panel modules (32) including elastic solar panel couplings (173), laterally fluidically constrained channels (5), solar panel roof mount brackets (130) having raised surfaces (21), suspended substantially rigid hollow rail components (63), and solar panel electrical penetration connectors (25) on solar panel roof mount constraints (101) in the various embodiments.

Abstract: A solar energy collecting panel includes a support substrate and one or more solar energy receiving surface disposed on the support substrate. The panel is mountable to extend in a mounting plane across an underlying structure. The support substrate is configured so that when the panel is mounted to the underlying structure at least a portion of the solar energy receiving surface is at an inclined angle to the mounting plane.

Abstract: The invention is an assembly of elements to collect solar energy and rain water. Solar energy is converted to electricity by either photovoltaic film or laminate panels or sheets mounted atop arcuate, curved canopy structures that are formed and positioned like “wings”. Rainwater is collected by the low-incidence arcuate curved wings and directed to a central trough along the wings' structural spine, which conducts it through a support column to a water container or vessel. In a preferred embodiment the vessel is an underground container extending parallel to and as long as the above-ground structural spine of the assembly.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for trimming a building frontage. The method includes: applying an insulation onto said wall, from the wall towards the outside; applying a solar receptor after the insulation; forming a channel between the insulation and a rigid outer layer; placing a partially transparent and/or cut-out flexible strip therein; closing the channel with the outer layer having at least 90% of the surface thereof made of at least one transparent or translucent protection feature. The invention also relates to a kit for trimming a building frontage capable of being implemented by the method.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a compact solar concentrator module and array preferably with cooling and heat extraction system for converting solar energy to other energy forms preferably electric and thermal energies. The solar concentrator module comprises a vacant structure with a substantially reflective parabolic inside surface, as well as a focal device disposed within the vacant structure for receiving a solar energy converter or a solar cell preferably photovoltaic cell. the focal device being positioned proximate to the focal point of the reflective parabolic inside surface, and a transparent cover coupled to the vacant structure opposing to the reflective parabolic inside surface for transmitting sunlight therein.

Abstract: Multilayer films of the present disclosure may be connected to a photovoltaic component and laminated to a building surface. The multilayer film may include a compatibilizing layer made of a first material and a barrier layer made of second material and connected to a first external surface of the compatibilizing layer. In an embodiment, the first material, the second material, and the building material may all be different materials. The multilayer film may further include an adhesive layer for bonding with the building surface, and the compatibilizing layer may be disposed between the adhesive layer and the barrier layer.

Abstract: A solar panel comprises an array of solar cells, a cooling arrangement, and thermal glue which thermally connects the solar cells to the cooling fins. The whole may be enclosed within a frame and backing. The thermal glue may be a silicon cream, or a mixture of silicon cream and metallic particles.

Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to solar panels to generate electrical energy. In particular, solar panels configured to efficiently receive scattered light are disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for converting solar radiation into thermal energy via a first and second non-ferrous metal conduit joined in a serpentine configuration by a non-ferrous metal end fitting. In one aspect, the apparatus is a high performance solar radiation collector converting solar radiation into thermal energy and transferring said thermal energy to a liquid transfer medium flowing through the collector.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mounting device (3) for at least one module (400) for recovering power from solar radiation that includes a first (54) and second (56) groove arranged in a stationary manner opposite one another. Each groove (54, 56) is capable of receiving a module edge (402A, 402B) while an opposite module edge (402B, 402A) is received in the other groove. In the configuration for maximum sinking of an edge (402A, 402B) of the module (400) into a groove (54, 56) from among the two grooves, the opposite module edge (402B, 402A) is capable of being extracted from the other edge, and the device contains a means (9) for maintaining the module in a position wherein the two opposite module edges (402A, 402 B) are received in the first (54) and second (56) groove, respectively. The grooves (54, 56) are formed in a section (5) making it possible to completely hold up each module (400).

Abstract: A transportable solar panel and support system has a flexible base, and a plurality of photovoltaic solar panels coupled to the flexible base. The solar panels are spaced apart from one another by gaps to permit the flexible base to be configured in an unfolded condition so that the solar panels can receive sunlight, and a folded condition where the solar panels are arranged at least partially adjacent to one another. A storage compartment and receptacles are disposed on the flexible base, with at least a portion of the receptacles axially aligned with one another to span one or more of the gaps between the solar panels. Support rods are provided that are movable between a stowed position within the storage compartment when the flexible base is in the folded condition, and a deployed position within the receptacles and spanning one or more of the gaps between the solar panels when the flexible base is in the unfolded condition.

Abstract: An absorber includes an absorber plate having an at least partly or entirely flat surface. At least one preferably metallic pipe, which likewise has a partly flat surface that rests against the flat surface of the absorber plate, and through which a heat transfer medium for carrying heat can flow, is disposed on the absorber plate with the aid of at least one heat-conducting plate. A method for manufacturing the absorber is characterized in that the at least one pipe and the heat-conducting plate(s) are placed on top of each other or combined. On this arrangement consisting of the at least one pipe and the at least one heat-conducting plate, the partly flat surface of the metallic pipe is then molded in a non-cutting forming work process.

Abstract: A method of installing a photovoltaic module includes providing a stationary substructure configured as a supporting and affixing structure and affixing the photovoltaic module to the substructure with an adhesive bond. A photovoltaic array includes a stationary substructure configured as a supporting and affixing structure and at least one photovoltaic module affixed to the substructure by an adhesive bond.