With A Sunlight Activated Device (e.g., Passive Solar Or Photoelectric) Patents (Class 52/173.3)
  • Patent number: 8879242
    Abstract: A mobile power system comprises a plurality of energy sources, wherein at least one energy source is a solar powered generating device and at least one energy source is a wind powered generating device; a plurality of electronic and telecommunications components configured to receive the power generated by the plurality of energy sources and/or convert the power generated to direct current power; a plurality of batteries configured to store the direct current power; and at least one transportable housing configured to hold the plurality of energy sources, the plurality of electronic and telecommunications, and the plurality of batteries during transport of the housing, and wherein the housing is configured to remotely operate the at least one solar powered energy device and the at least one wind powered generating device when the mobile power system is in operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Sundial Power Pods, LLC
    Inventors: Eldon Prax, Stan Waldrop
  • Patent number: 8875401
    Abstract: In one embodiment the present invention includes a solar panel clamp system for mounting solar panels on ground-level and raised purlins. Such systems include left-handed and right-hand clamps that can be attached to opposite sides of solar panel assemblies that include mounting frames. Left-handed clamps can attach to the mounting frame of a solar panel and include surfaces that can rest on the top surfaces of purlins and include a lip or shelf surface onto which the right-handed clamps of a mounting frame of a neighboring solar panel can rest to increase the speed and safety of installing solar panels on raised purlins. Through holes in the left-handed and right-handed clamps can then be used as guide holes for drilling into the purlins. The majority of, if not all of, the solar panel installation using the clamps of the present invention can be completed from underneath the raised purlins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Solarcity Corporation
    Inventor: Michael R. Jolley
  • Publication number: 20140318045
    Abstract: A roof mounting system and method for mounting an array of discrete modules such as a plurality of photovoltaic panels to a roof comprising a plurality of support rails configured to cooperative support the plurality of photovoltaic modules securely adhered to the roof with a spray polyurethane foam covered by a protective coating of elastomeric material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Allen Gezelman
  • Publication number: 20140318046
    Abstract: An elongated purlin for use in roof structures including an elongated solid continuous strip of metal, the strip of metal having multiple bends parallel with the longitudinal axis to form and define an elongated mounting wall, an elongated upright wall extending from the mounting wall, a first cross piece extending horizontally outwardly in opposite directions from the plane of the upright wall, a second cross piece integrally attached to the first cross piece and extending horizontally outwardly in opposite directions from the plane of the upright wall, and each of the first and second cross pieces having bent double layer construction. The first and second cross pieces are spaced apart to define channels designed to receive an edge of a solar panel or roof section engaged therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: John Powers, III
  • Patent number: 8869471
    Abstract: A support assembly for supporting one or more photovoltaic modules on a support surface is disclosed herein. The support assembly includes (i) a body portion, the body portion including a base portion for accommodating one or more ballasts, the body portion comprising polymer; and (ii) integrated grounding means, the integrated ground means configured to provide integrated grounding between adjacent photovoltaic modules. The support assembly is configured to bridge multiple rows of photovoltaic modules without being directly secured to any other support assembly. Thus the support assembly can be utilized to support a wide variety of different sizes of photovoltaic modules. A mounting system for supporting a plurality of photovoltaic modules on a support surface, which comprises a plurality of separate support assemblies, is also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolibrium Solar, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian James Wildes, James Joseph Huth
  • Patent number: 8869472
    Abstract: A thermal compensation apparatus is disclosed including an elongated element extending from a proximal end to a distal end. A length of the elongated element from the proximal end to the distal end decreases in response to an increase in the temperature of the elongated element from a baseline temperature. The length of the elongated element increases in response to a decrease in the temperature of the elongated element from the baseline temperature. In various embodiments, the apparatus may be incorporated in solar module mounting systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Panelclaw, Inc.
    Inventors: David Anderson, Vasilije Jovanovic
  • Patent number: 8869470
    Abstract: A protective covering helps to prevent fastener leaks from roof installed fasteners, which are used to mount roofing systems, such as a solar panel installation system, to roofs with a mounting bracket attached to the roof. The protective covering is a portion of flat, malleable waterproof material molded to form a cover, forming a rounded or peaked triangular-shaped structure when viewed from the side. The triangular shaped structure includes a base and a hypotenuse portion where the line of the roof acts as a side which is covered by at least the hypotenuse portion. The hypotenuse portion meets the roof at an angle. The covering is adapted for insertion under portions of a roof shingle, and extends back in a slight rise (downwardly with respect to the root) to cover the fastener and L-shaped bracket, which the fastener fastens to the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Carlo John Lanza
  • Patent number: 8870139
    Abstract: A novel solar panel mounting system including a strap and one or more supports, having top flanges, attached to each other. The strap is attached between a first point and a second point on a surface. The support is designed to support a solar panel on this surface. The top flange of the support may be parallel to or at an angle to the surface. The strap may be singular or comprised of two straps one above the other. The strap may be attached to the top flange or the bottom or both. The supports may have any cross sectional shape. The strap may be attached to the support at its end or at a distance from the end; or normal to the support or at an angle to it. The length of the support is greater than the width of the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventors: Jonathan Port, Timothy Graves
  • Publication number: 20140311061
    Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to a solar power unit comprising a frame, configured to be integrated into a building structure, for supporting a solar panel, the solar panel for generating a power signal, and a front cover for securing the solar panel to the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventor: Alexander Freimark Keller
  • Publication number: 20140311054
    Abstract: A rooftop photovoltaic solar system is disclosed. The solar system comprises a plurality of photovoltaic modules forming a rooftop array, the rooftop array having at least one edge and a wind deflector positioned along the edge of the rooftop array, the wind deflector constrained in a first configuration by a fuse. In the first configuration the wind deflector comprises a deflecting portion adapted to deflect wind blowing on the rooftop above the rooftop array and a ventilation portion having a plurality of openings, the openings positioned to permit airflow under the rooftop array. The wind deflector assumes a second configuration upon release of the fuse. In the second configuration, the deflecting portion is elevated from the first configuration and the ventilation portion is positioned to permit less airflow through the plurality of openings than in the first configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventors: Christine Concho, Michael Crockett, Carl J.S. Lenox
  • Patent number: 8863349
    Abstract: The steering and cleaning mechanism for reflector arrays includes at least one fixed rail and a movable rail slidably movable along the at least one fixed rail. The at least one fixed rail is disposed adjacent a plurality of reflectors arranged in an array. A positioning/cleaning carriage is disposed on the movable rail and slidably movable thereon. The positioning/cleaning carriage includes a positioning module and a cleaning module. The positioning/cleaning carriage is positioned over a select reflector by the combined movement of the movable rail and the carriage along the movable rail. Once positioned, the positioning module and the cleaning module are selectively actuated to both orient the target reflector in the desired position and to clean the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
    Inventor: Jihad Hassan Alsadah
  • Patent number: 8863451
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to photovoltaic systems. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic roofing systems in which photovoltaic elements are disposed upon roofing elements such as shingles, tiles, shakes or slates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: CertainTeed Corporation
    Inventors: Robert L. Jenkins, Christopher C. Fisher
  • Publication number: 20140305050
    Abstract: A solar module support for covering oblique object surfaces is disclosed. The solar module support has a lower lying continuous edge area, which acts as a lower overlap area between adjacent solar module supports, which adjoins at an upper edge and a lateral edge. At least one web runs on this edge area which forms a channel for water between the web and the receiving surface. On the underside of the respectively opposite edge, a recess is provided, which has a groove corresponding to the web and which acts as the upper overlap area between adjacent solar module supports. The recess and the groove are dimensioned such that the receiving surfaces lie in the same plane and the web in each case engages in the groove in such a manner that direct contact of the overlap areas is achieved on the web and an interspace remains between the overlap areas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventors: Stefan Schulze, Heiko Schulze
  • Patent number: 8857113
    Abstract: A locking apparatus is used for mounting a photovoltaic module to a rack. The rack includes a base plate, two sidewalls extending from opposite sides of the base plate, and two limiting plates extending in from tops of the sidewalls respectively. An opening is defined between the limiting plates. The locking apparatus includes a pressing member, a mounting member, and a bolt. The mounting member includes a base, a neck portion, a head portion formed on a top of the neck portion, and two arms extending out from opposite sides of the head portion. The base is received in the rack and abuts bottoms of the arms. The arms are blocked by the limiting plates respectively. The bolt extends through the pressing member and the opening to screw into the mounting member, to fix the photovoltaic module between the pressing member and the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Bao-Ren Zhang
  • Patent number: 8857124
    Abstract: The invention relates to a weatherproof building shell, especially a pitched roof, comprising a plurality of rectangular weatherproof shingles which are laid diagonally to mutually overlap in a scale-type fashion in relation to a line of slope. Shingles that overlap in an edge zone at a right angle to the line of slope are set off in relation to each other. The shingles are connected to a supporting structure in a lower corner zone of the shingle in relation to a line of slope, respective sealing elements being arranged on said corner zone of the shingle and obturating a gap between shingles that are arranged on the same level at a right angle to the main direction. The rectangular shingles have respective through-openings for fastening elements in two opposite corner zones so that the shingles are connected to the supporting structure in their lower and upper corner zones in relation to the main direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Mario Posnansky
  • Patent number: 8850761
    Abstract: A structural design is proposed, comprising rear-ventilated cladding elements (1), in particular plates or boards, which can be hung in front of a supporting framework (2), in particular consisting of vertical support elements and horizontal bearing elements, wherein the cladding elements are each assigned a frame (3) which spans a rear-ventilation cross-section (4) and the upper and lower frame leg profiles (5, 6) of which have ventilation openings (8) leading to the front (7) of the cladding. In order to provide advantageous rear-ventilation conditions it is proposed that at least the upper frame leg profile interior (12) is assigned a splash guard (13) which is arranged in the manner of a labyrinth seal, adjoins the frame leg profile below the ventilation openings (8), covers the ventilation openings (8) and preferably faces with the free end thereof towards the front (7) of the cladding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventor: Johann Aschauer
  • Patent number: 8850754
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a stackable ballasted roof mounting solar panel mount unit integrally formed into a single piece. The mount unit comprises a plurality of generally elevated side walls of a ballast receiving basket. Each side walls defines a downwardly facing open channel that is configured to receive a corresponding side wall from a corresponding solar panel mount in a stacking relation. The mount unit further comprises a first pair of posts, wherein each of the first pair of posts forms a downwardly facing post receiving first mouth that is configured to receive a corresponding post from a corresponding first pair of posts of a corresponding solar panel mount in a stacking relation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: DynoRaxx, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan T. Rizzo
  • Patent number: 8850756
    Abstract: Systems and methods for mounting one or more solar panel modules are disclosed. First and second support structures can be provided. Each support structure can include a lateral support member extending laterally between two post members, and a clamp movably attached to the lateral support member and movable along a length of the lateral support member. Each of the support structures can be configured to be separately mounted to the supporting surface and aligned along an axis to have each lateral support member support a portion of the first solar panel module. The clamp of the first support structure can configured to be moved to a first Airy point of the first solar panel module and the clamp of the second support structure can be configured to be moved to a second Airy point of the first solar panel module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Panelclaw, Inc.
    Inventors: David Anderson, Vasilije Jovanovic
  • Patent number: 8850755
    Abstract: Provided herein are solar collectors having reflective sheets which are slidably insertable and/or removable for quick installation, construction, removal, repair, and/or replacement. Also provided are solar collectors having reflective sheets under tension. Further provided are methods for constructing solar collectors. In another aspect, provided herein are guide rails for guiding and/or retaining slidably removable reflective sheets and holding the reflective sheets in a prescribed shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Skyfuel, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall C. Gee, Scott Audette, Randolph Carl Brost, Adrian L. Farr, Robert Hawkins, David White, Shannon Thomson
  • Publication number: 20140290157
    Abstract: Described are a cooperating solar energy collector panel and an energy converter, at least one of which is adapted to fit within a window opening. Preferably, the solar collector panel and/or energy converter are movable into or within the window opening to allow for the window to still be able to open to let in fresh air, or be free from obstruction to permit entry of light or a view to the outdoors when the solar collector panel and/or energy converter are not in use. In one version, the solar collector panel is adapted to be remote from the window opening, for example, on the top of an awning above the window opening. The bottom of the awning in this case may be adapted to contain an energy converter which may be moved into the window opening to distribute heat into a building.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventor: Roger D. Wilson
  • Patent number: 8844215
    Abstract: A support assembly for supporting one or more photovoltaic modules on a support surface is disclosed herein. The support assembly includes (i) a body portion, the body portion including a base portion for accommodating one or more ballasts, the body portion comprising polymer; and (ii) integrated grounding means, the integrated ground means configured to provide integrated grounding between adjacent photovoltaic modules. The support assembly is configured to bridge multiple rows of photovoltaic modules without being directly secured to any other support assembly. Thus the support assembly can be utilized to support a wide variety of different sizes of photovoltaic modules. A mounting system for supporting a plurality of photovoltaic modules on a support surface, which comprises a plurality of separate support assemblies, is also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolibrium Solar, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian James Wildes, James Joseph Huth
  • Patent number: 8844214
    Abstract: A support system for a solar panel includes a triangular truss with connection points for mounting a photovoltaic module, and a cradle structure that supports the triangular truss and is connected to at least two side supports of the triangular truss. The cradle structure may be driven for rotation about an axis for tracking the sun and several cradle structures can be linked together for tracking movement using a buried linkage system. The truss may also be foldable for ease of transportation and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: First Solar, Inc.
    Inventor: John Hartelius
  • Patent number: 8844213
    Abstract: The modular unit for generating solar power comprises a plurality of diamond-shaped cover plates (3.2, . . . , 3.3) for forming a surface trapping sunlight. The cover plates (3.2, 3.3) contain photovoltaic elements (106.1, 106.2, 106.3). The system further comprises a plurality of support rods (54) having a number of pre-manufactured fastening positions (55), said rods being arranged at a predetermined angle >0° to the horizontal and extending in the direction of a line of slope. Every fastening position is associated with a fastening device (50) which connects two corners of the overlapping cover plates (3.2, 3.3) to the support rod (54) in the fastening position. The cover plates (3.2, 3.3) are arranged diagonally and so as to overlap in a scale-type fashion with respect to a longitudinal direction of the support rod (54) in such a manner that the surface trapping the sunlight is at the same time rain water-repellent. The cover plates (3.2, 3.3) have a first cut-out section (15.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventor: Mario Posnansky
  • Patent number: 8844887
    Abstract: A two-part roof hook is described, which has a base part (1) and a hook part (2) which can be connected to the base part (1) and which has a connecting element (6) on its end (4) for mounting an assembly. The base part (1) is a cut-off portion (X) of an angle section, one angle leg (8) of which is provided with connecting elements (7) for making a connection to the roof substructure. A section wall (10) extending in the longitudinal direction of the section is arranged within the angle between the two angle legs (8, 9), which section wall includes an obtuse angle (?) jointly with the angle leg area of the connecting elements (7), serves as a support surface for the end (3) of the hook part (2), and can be connected to the end (3) of the hook part (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: HatiCon GmbH
    Inventor: Gido Genschorek
  • Publication number: 20140283467
    Abstract: The present invention provides a panel having a profile. The panel includes a first longitudinal edge including in succession a first longitudinal rib, a flange, and a second longitudinal rib. Each longitudinal rib includes an upper central part and two lateral wings. The panel also includes a central part and a second longitudinal edge including in succession a first lateral portion, a protruding part, and a second lateral portion. The lateral portions have a configuration permitting them to at least partially overlap the upper central parts of the first and second longitudinal ribs. The protruding part is capable of receiving a fastener. The present invention also provides an assembly of panels marginally overlapping, a roofing and a kit for fabrication of roofing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: ARCELORMITTAL INVESTIGACION Y DESARROLLO, S.L.
    Inventors: Eric Chabas, David Masure
  • Patent number: 8839573
    Abstract: A panel array support assembly has lower support joists supporting varied panel rails, to which are connected panel holding device or clips. The panel clips are spring-based and configured so that the length of each clip extends in a direction along the length of the panel rails. The panels are supported well inside of the edges extending in the same direction as the panel rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Northern States Metals Company
    Inventors: Paul R. Cusson, Michael G. Greenamyer, Joseph A. Nobile, Thomas P. Kilar, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8839574
    Abstract: A pivoting solar panel device for an ISO cargo container preferably includes a base frame, at least two solar panel support frames and a plurality of solar panels. The plurality of solar panels are attached to the at least two solar panel support plates. The at least two solar panel support frames are attached to the base frame. The base frame preferably includes four structural angle members, four web truss members, four corner post toes and a plurality of web truss cross members. The pivoting solar panel support frame preferably includes a support plate, a hinge and a jacking device. A horizontal solar panel support frame preferably includes lengthwise and cross panel truss members and a support plate. An angled solar panel support frame preferably includes angled lengthwise and cross panel truss members and the support plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Inventors: Peter E. Gill, Peter E. Gill, III
  • Patent number: 8839575
    Abstract: Disclosed is a tile roof equipment-mounting device for mounting solar panels and other equipment to tile roofs. The tile roof mount includes a base and an angled bracket. The base can include a base portion channel projecting upward from the base, with stepped grooves, as well as first and second slots running along opposing sides of the base portion channel in a direction parallel to the base. The angled bracket can include complementary stepped grooves that engage the base portion channel. The angled bracket can include a third slot that is perpendicular to the vertex between angled portions of the angled bracket. A threaded fastener can adjustably engage first, second, and third slots. This combination allows the tile roof mount so that the height is vertically discreetly adjustable and horizontally continuously adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Sunmodo Corporation
    Inventors: Jun Liu, Clifford Schrock
  • Publication number: 20140259964
    Abstract: The present invention provides an insulation panel used to form part of an exterior element of a buildings envelope for thermal insulation, ventilation, heating and cooling purpose having an internal duct that provides heat exchange between counter flowing waste and fresh air streams, oriented through the panel to minimise undesirable heat transfer. Ventilation air enters beneath the eaves, waste air exits beneath the ridge passing the coil of a reversible heat pump. The paired coil inside the building in the upper roof space within the fresh air stream is used for heating or cooling the building. Ducted waste air, leaving the building at this same position, can be supplied with a water mist before entering the heat exchanger to provide further indirect evaporative cooling of the incoming air stream. The waste air is also used to cool solar panels when fitted to the roof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Richard Frank Rickie
  • Publication number: 20140260002
    Abstract: A solar liquid-heating-and-cooling system (20) includes: 1. a hot-liquid storage-tank (22); 2. a hot-liquid manifold-tank (26); 3. a coaxial heating-and-cooling-tube (24) that connects downward from the hot-liquid storage-tank (22) to the hot-liquid manifold-tank (26); 4. a double layer heating-and-cooling collector-array-panel (32) located beneath the hot-liquid manifold-tank (26), the panel (32) including, connected to the hot-liquid manifold-tank (26) a. an upper layer of glazed heating-tubes (36); and b. a lower layer of unglazed cooling-tubes (56); 5. parabolic-trough mirror reflectors (64) that are located between the upper and lower layers of tubes (36, 56); 6. cold-liquid manifold-tank (92) located below the panel (32) connected to lower ends both of the glazed heating-tubes (36) and of the unglazed cooling-tubes (56); 7. a cold liquid storage tank (98); and 8.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Elaine P. TEOH
  • Publication number: 20140260000
    Abstract: This disclosure provides a roofing, cladding or siding product which is light weight, easy to install, durable and resistant to environmental wear. One embodiment relates to a module that can be used to form a weatherproof covering over top of a building surface. Another embodiment is a module which can, in additional to forming a weatherproof covering, be used as part of a thermal energy recovery or removal system. Yet another embodiment is a module which can, in addition to forming a weatherproof covering, and optionally in addition to being useful as part of a thermal energy recovery system, bears an array of solar cells to generate electrical energy. Assemblies, systems, uses, and methods of manufacture are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Zinniatek Limited
    Inventors: Andrew Leo Haynes, Ashton Cyril Partridge, John Wason McKee, Christopher Charles Morrow, Samuel Gwynn Buckingham, Johan Miros Kvasnicka, Gabriel Ioan Giurgiu
  • Publication number: 20140259999
    Abstract: A solar roofing panel has a rectangular body with solar cells exposed on the upper surface of the body and an electrical junction box on the lower surface of body along the forward edge portion thereof. A cutout is formed in the upper edge portion of the rectangular body at a corner thereof. When a plurality of solar panels are arranged on a roof in courses with an upper course partially overlapping a lower course, the junction boxes of roofing panels in the upper course are disposed in the cutouts of roofing panels of the lower course. Accordingly, the solar roofing panels present a low profile mimicking the profile of slate-style shingles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Building Materials Investment Corporation
    Inventors: Tommy F. Rodrigues, Sudhir Railkar, Walter Zarate, Matti Kiik
  • Publication number: 20140260003
    Abstract: A wall structure for a building, comprising a cavity (10) for allowing air to flow through the structure between the building's interior and exterior, between the wall structure's inner (2) and outer layers (4). An electricity generating member (20) for generating electricity using heat transfer is located for transferring heat from the building's exterior to interior when exposed to relatively warm external conditions (THOT) and from the building's interior to exterior when exposed to relatively cooler external conditions (TCOLD). The electricity generating member (20) being located for promoting an energy transfer with air within the cavity (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Esam ELSARRAGE, Yousef AL-HORR
  • Publication number: 20140259998
    Abstract: A solar ridge vent includes an elongated laterally flexible panel having edge portions and ventilation grids extending along the edge portions. Channel members extend along the edge portions of the panel and define channels that have channel openings facing inwardly. The channels are sized to receive edges of auxiliary components to hold the auxiliary components on the ridge vent. The auxiliary components may be ridge cap shingles, slate cap shingles, light emitting emergency location panels, or fluid heating panels. In a preferred embodiment, solar power generating panels are configured to be mounted on the ridge vent with its edges held in the channels. A remote electrical box has chargeable batteries, a power inverter, and an AC outlet to provide electrical power in an emergency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Sudhir Railkar, Walter Zarate, Matti Kiik
  • Publication number: 20140259973
    Abstract: The present invention relates more particularly to improved flashings for use in integrating specialized roof-mounted structures, such as photovoltaic devices for the generation of electrical energy, with conventional roofing materials on a roof. In one aspect, the invention provides a flashing element having a cross-sectional shape comprising a laterally-extending flange, the flange having an edge, a first end and a second end, the side flashing element comprising a return hem disposed at the edge and comprising a folded-over strip of material disposed over the top surface of the flange at the edge, the return hem having a first end disposed toward the first end of the edge, and a second end disposed toward the second end of the edge, wherein the total thickness of the return hem at its second end is no greater than the interior thickness of the return hem at its first end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Robin M. Duarte, Christopher C. Fisher
  • Publication number: 20140260001
    Abstract: A solar roof shingle for providing AC electrical power when exposed to sunlight includes a shingle frame having a bottom panel supportable on a roof deck, a top panel, and a thickness between the bottom panel and the top panel. The solar roof shingle also includes a solar collector mounted to and covering at least a portion to the top panel of the shingle frame, with the solar panel producing DC electrical energy at DC terminals when the solar collector is exposed to sunlight. A nano-inverter is disposed within the shingle frame between the bottom panel and the top panel and is electrically coupled to the DC terminals. The nano-inverter converts DC electrical energy to AC electrical energy available at AC terminals mounted to the shingle frame. The nano-inverter has a maximum power rating of 150 Watts or less so that it produces substantially less heat during operation allowing the thickness of the solar roof shingle to approach that of a standard roofing shingle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Building Materials Investment Corporation
    Inventors: Matti KIIK, Daniel E. Boss, Tommy F. Rodrigues, Sudhir Railkar
  • Patent number: 8832938
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present inventions are directed to systems, devices for use with systems, and method of mounting and retaining solar panels. A solar module mounting system may include: a support mechanism including a support post pivotably attached to a support base, and an attachment module for attaching a solar panel to the support mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Panelclaw, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Charles Gies, David P. Anderson, Daniel P. Leary
  • Patent number: 8833012
    Abstract: A sustainable energy saving wall utilizing recyclable materials is disclosed for use in construction where the wall provides natural light to the interior of the structure while also providing support without the need for further load bearing structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: The Penn State Research Foundation
    Inventors: Ali M. Memari, Joseph A. Standley
  • Patent number: 8833031
    Abstract: A device (100) for securing a support structure such as solar module-carrier (12) to a flat roof (16) which is provided with a non-bearing insulation layer (24) covered by a sealing strip (22). The device (100) has an upper connection element (150) for the support structure and a spacer member (120) which can be guided through an opening (26) in the insulation layer (24) in order to support the connection element (150) on a roof substructure (17). The spacer member (120) is anchored by a plurality of anchoring parts (28) on the roof substructure (17). The connection element (150) comprises an upper and a lower connection flange (152, 154) between which the sealing strip (22) is clamped. The spacer member (120) is designed as a profile or hollow-profile part which can be cut to length as required and is produced as an extrusion part from a thermal insulation material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: SFS Intec Holding AG
    Inventor: Markus Steffen
  • Patent number: 8835744
    Abstract: A solar cell module having a solar cell panel with strings of electrically-coupled solar cells arranged in a row includes one or more lead wires that electrically couple the strings and a junction box. The one or more lead wires are arranged such that they do not overlap with each other and such that one or more of the lead wires includes a portion that overlaps and does not electrically connect to interconnector of a string. The lead wires include an interconnector connection part connected to a respective string interconnector, and the interconnector connection parts of the lead wires are arranged in a straight line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Sanghwan Park
  • Patent number: 8833005
    Abstract: Provided are novel building integrable photovoltaic (BIP) assemblies and methods of installation thereof on building structures. The BIP assembly includes a base sheet or a sheath, which may be a plywood board or an oriented strand (OSB) board, and multiple electrically interconnected photovoltaic inserts, which are attached to and supported by the base sheet. The base sheet is configured to be positioned directly the building structures, such as roof rafters. Various electrical components may be positioned within cavities of the base sheet and/or at the back side of that sheet. Such components are configured to align in between the roof rafters during installation. The spacing between the rafters provides access to the components and allows the components to extend away from the base sheet and into the spacing. Various electrical components may be installed and removed from the BIP assembly during its fabrication and/or installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Hanergy Holding Group Ltd
    Inventors: Steven T. Croft, Shawn Everson
  • Patent number: 8826608
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a modular, plug-and-play DC/AC compatible solar photovoltaic power system and mounting frames therefor, having inexpensive modular designs which require no or minimal penetration for rooftop installation and provide enhanced wind-induced position disruption protection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventor: Chandramouli Vaidyanathan
  • Patent number: 8826606
    Abstract: A solar device includes a frame, a solar cell module, an inverter and a fastener mechanism. The frame has a first edge and a second edge opposite to the first edge. The solar cell module is disposed in the frame. The fastener mechanism is used for fastening the frame. The fastener mechanism includes a base and a fastener member. The inverter is fixed on the base. A first end of the fastener member is pivotally connected to the base and a second end of the fastener member has a first extending portion, wherein the first end is opposite to the second end. The first extending portion has a protruding structure. When the first edge of the frame is disposed on the base, the fastener member can be rotated with respect to the base so as to engage the protruding structure with the second edge of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: AU Optronics Corp.
    Inventor: Tung-I Yen
  • Patent number: 8826618
    Abstract: A roof attachment assembly for mounting to a roof substrate. The roof attachment assembly comprises a plate having a substantially frustoconical protrusion defining an aperture extending therethrough, the plate defining a first surface and a second surface, the first surface facing the roof substrate and the second surface spaced from the roof substrate. The roof attachment assembly also comprises a membrane positioned adjacent one of the first surface and the second surface of the plate, and a bracket positioned proximate the second surface of the plate, the bracket operable to support one or more roof mounted fixtures. The roof attachment assembly further comprises a fastener extending through the bracket, the membrane and the plate, the fastener operable to couple the bracket, the membrane and the plate together, wherein the roof substrate is contiguous adjacent to an end of the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Vermont Slate & Copper Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Cecil Stearns
  • Patent number: 8826607
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to photovoltaic devices, and more particularly to photovoltaic roofing products in which a photovoltaic element is joined to a roofing substrate. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a photovoltaic roofing element comprising a roofing substrate; one or more photovoltaic cells disposed on the roofing substrate; and a colored or patterned layer disposed on the roofing substrate and visible in the area surrounding the photovoltaic cells; and an encapsulant layer disposed over the photovoltaic cells and the patterned colored layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: CertainTeed Corporation
    Inventors: Ming-Liang Shiao, Gregory F. Jacobs
  • Patent number: 8829330
    Abstract: In an example, a solar energy system includes multiple PV modules, multiple reflectors, and a racking assembly. Each of the reflectors is positioned opposite a corresponding one of the PV modules. The racking assembly mechanically interconnects the PV modules and the reflectors to form an interconnected system. The racking assembly defines gaps within the racking assembly and between adjacent PV modules and reflectors. The interconnected system includes multiple contact points associated with the gaps. The gaps and contact points configure the interconnected system to accommodate surface unevenness of an installation surface up to a predetermined surface unevenness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Tenksolar, Inc.
    Inventors: Dallas W. Meyer, Lowell J. Berg, Lance E. Stover, Orville D. Dodd, Thomas L. Murnan
  • Publication number: 20140245672
    Abstract: A solar panel cap and light cap secured to a wall or parapet through the use of a fixed coping and a secured bracket. The secured bracket has a securing plate mechanically attached to a top of the wall and upper and lower extensions extending above and below the top of the wall along its sides. The fixed coping has two vertical supports on either side of a locking channel. The vertical supports are biased or resilient to secure the coping to the secured bracket with the upper extensions providing full contact along the length of the vertical supports. The locking channel is configured to slidably receive a locking insert from a solar panel cap or light cap, each configured to connect to an adjacent cap such that they are electrically coupled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Inventor: James L. Prentice
  • Patent number: 8820030
    Abstract: A holding and fastening device (1) has means for holding at least one photovoltaic module or solar collector module in an alignment suited for the intended use. The device has fastening means for fastening to a roof surface, that allow for a simple and secure attachment of solar modules even to flat roofs while preventing damage to the roof structure and without impairing the leak tightness of the roof. The fastening means have at least one flat support section (7) with a support surface for the plane-parallel support on the roof surface. The support sections (7) may be covered with an adhesive panel, preferably a bitumen panel (18), that can be glued or welded to existing panels on the roof surface. Older roofs can be pretreated for better adhesion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: F&F Vermogens GBR
    Inventors: Jens Sager, Toni Grab-Renner, Andreas Babbe
  • Patent number: 8820021
    Abstract: A hip, ridge or rake shingle is provided, in which a pair of substantially rigid panel portions are connected by a hinge portion, and wherein the shingle is pre-assembled, but can conform to a variety of different angles to accommodate different angular relationships between surfaces of a hip, ridge or rake of a roof. The substantially rigid panel portions are connected by a hinge and may or may not have a reinforcement member, and all of the panels, hinges and reinforcement members are of synthetic thermoplastic polymeric construction and are welded together by ultrasonic or vibratory welding techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: CertainTeed Corporation
    Inventors: Husnu M. Kalkanoglu, Gregory F. Jacobs, Erik F. Shay, Alexander H. Plache
  • Patent number: 8825500
    Abstract: In accordance with various exemplary embodiments, solar energy shade structures and methods of design and revenue generation are disclosed. These systems comprise structures capable of supporting solar panel at heights greater than 18 feet above their mounting surface. These systems may be installed in confined spaces. These systems also comprise structures that are customizable, allowing an installation to be configured with a desired lighting and environmental effect. The methods discussed herein describe processes for achieving desired design effects based on natural elements. Moreover, the methods discussed herein describe processes for reducing the costs of generating solar energy and/or reducing the costs of providing a solar structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Strategic Solar Energy, LLC
    Inventors: Jack DeBartolo, III, Robert L. Boscamp, Thomas Headley