| Entries |
| Document | Title | Date |
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| 20080196759 | Photovoltaic assembly with elongated photovoltaic devices and integrated involute-based reflectors - A photovoltaic assembly has elongated photovoltaic modules. The photovoltaic modules each have a substrate with a photovoltaic material disposed on the substrate. Each respective photovoltaic module lies in the concave structure of a corresponding concentrator assembly. The concentrator assemblies have surfaces made with reflective material that form such concave structures. The concentrator assemblies each transmit light to their corresponding photovoltaic module. The surfaces of each concentrator assembly are shaped at least in part as an involute of the surface of their corresponding photovoltaic modules, and do not exceed the height of the their corresponding module. A frame is provided having a first support and a second support, where the modules extend between the supports. The concentrator is mechanically attached to the frame. A substantial portion of light striking the concentrator is ultimately redirected to the modules without associated tracking and/or control devices. | 08-21-2008 |
| 20080210291 | Solar collector and photovoltaic converter - This invention relates generally to a solar collector and photovoltaic converter with a concentrating reflective inner surface with a static fluid filter attached to the bottom half of a enclosure with a photovoltaic converter cell mounted to the under side of the hemi-spherical transparent top half of the enclosure. | 09-04-2008 |
| 20080210292 | Stationary Photovoltaic Module With Low Concentration Ratio of Solar Radiation - Stationary photovoltaic module with low concentration of solar radiation that consists of sequentially interchanged rows of truncated compound parabolic concentrating (CPC) mirrors | 09-04-2008 |
| 20080216888 | Compact photovoltaic generation assembly and power supply - A compact photovoltaic generation assembly exhibiting improved photovoltaic efficiency and an extended operating life as compared to conventional photovoltaic systems is described. The assembly can also include a power supply for use at times when light energy is not readily available. | 09-11-2008 |
| 20080236651 | SOLAR CELL CONCENTRATOR STRUCTURE INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF CONCENTRATOR ELEMENTS WITH A NOTCH DESIGN AND METHOD HAVING A PREDETERMINED EFFICIENCY - A solar cell concentrator structure. The structure has a first concentrator element, which has a first aperture region and a first exit region. The structure has a second concentrator element integrally formed with the first concentrator element. In a specific embodiment, the second concentrator element includes a second aperture region and a second exit region. The structure has a separation region provided between the first concentrator element and the second concentrator element. In a specific embodiment, the separation region is characterized by a width separating the first exit region from the second exit region. In a specific embodiment, the structure has a radius of curvature of 0.15 mm and less characterizing a region between the first concentrator element and the second concentrator element. In a specific embodiment, the structure has a triangular shaped region including an apex defined by the radius of curvature and a base defined by the separation region. In a preferred embodiment, a refractive index of about 1 characterizes the triangular region. | 10-02-2008 |
| 20080245401 | CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM USING A FRESNEL LENS AND NONIMAGING SECONDARY OPTICS - Optical devices and systems that provide high solar flux onto a multi-junction solar cell, or other target cell, to produce efficient electrical output. An optical device includes a primary focusing element, and a non-imaging secondary concentrator having an entry aperture and an exit aperture. The primary focus element is configured to focus light from a distant source onto the entry aperture of the secondary concentrator. The primary focusing element has an f-number that is greater than about 1, e.g., between 1 and 4 or greater. The device includes a solar cell located proximal to the exit aperture of the secondary concentrator. In certain aspects, the primary focusing element includes a Fresnel lens, a diffractive lens and/or a reflector. In certain aspects, a Fresnel lens used as the primary is flat, substantially square, curved and/or refractive. | 10-09-2008 |
| 20080251112 | CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC KALEIDOSCOPE AND METHOD - A concentrating photovoltaic collection system includes a concentrator that focuses light from a source on a focal point, and a photovoltaic box collector at approximately the focal point of the concentrator. The photovoltaic collector has a triangular, square, or hexagonal front wall, and either a corresponding back wall and a plurality of either interconnecting specularly reflective side walls that form a kaleidoscope or converging side walls that form a hollow pyramid. A hole in the front wall lets the light in, and a combination of reflective surfaces and solar cells reflects the light in the collector, provides uniform illumination of the solar cells and consequent efficient conversion of the light into electricity. | 10-16-2008 |
| 20080251113 | SINGLE MIRROR SOLAR CONCENTRATOR WITH EFFICIENT ELECTRICAL AND THERMAL MANAGEMENT - An apparatus may include a housing having an inner surface and an outer surface, a mirror coupled to the inner surface of the housing, and a receiver unit coupled to the housing. The mirror is to receive direct radiation and to focus the radiation toward a localized area, and the receiver unit is to receive the radiation directly from the mirror and to convert the received radiation to electrical current. | 10-16-2008 |
| 20080257398 | Floating Solar Platform - The invention describes large solar power plants, which consist of groups of rotating platforms. Three of said platforms comprising a triad having an interstitial pillar, said pillar has means to transmit torque to rotate the platforms and means to maintain the position of the platforms. | 10-23-2008 |
| 20080257399 | BIFACIAL THIN FILM SOLAR CELL AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - A bifacial thin film solar cell and method for fabricating the same are provided. The solar cell has a first and a second transparent substrates, a first and a second solar cell modules, and an insulating layer. The first solar cell module is formed on the first transparent substrate, and has a metal layer as one of the electrodes of the first solar cell module and as a light reflection layer. The insulating layer is formed on the metal layer of the first solar cell module. The second solar cell module is formed between the insulating layer and the second transparent substrate. | 10-23-2008 |
| 20080257400 | HOLOGRAPHICALLY ENHANCED PHOTOVOLTAIC (HEPV) SOLAR MODULE - A holographically enhanced photovoltaic solar module comprises: a first substrate having an outer major surface and an inner major surface, substantially parallel to each other, the first substrate being optically transparent and including a transmission grating on the inner major surface of the optically transparent substrate; a second substrate having an outer major surface and an inner major surface, substantially parallel to each other, the second substrate including a reflection grating on the inner major surface of the second substrate; and at least one solar cell interposed between the transmission grating and the reflection grating and oriented perpendicular thereto. | 10-23-2008 |
| 20080264468 | Solar power unit with enclosed outer structure - The present invention is a solar power unit which uses at least two mirrors to focus light onto a solar receiver assembly. An outer structure for the solar power unit serves as an enclosure for the solar power unit and incorporates integral features for aligning components within. The integral alignment features reduce the need for costly tooling which is typically required to align optical elements in a solar power unit. Solar energy units may be joined together with interlocking features to form a solar energy array. | 10-30-2008 |
| 20080264469 | Solar power unit with integrated primary structure - A solar power unit which uses at least two mirrors to focus light onto a solar receiver assembly is disclosed. A primary structure for the solar power unit comprises a primary mirror and supporting walls integrally formed around the perimeter of the primary mirror. The integral construction of the primary mirror and supporting walls improves the alignment of components within the solar power unit. Solar power units may be joined together with interlocking features to form a solar energy array. | 10-30-2008 |
| 20080271776 | LIGHT-GUIDE SOLAR PANEL AND METHOD OF FABRICATION THEREOF - The present invention is that of a solar energy system that uses a light-guide solar panel (LGSP) to trap light inside a dielectric or other transparent panel and propagates the light to one of the panel edges for harvesting by a solar energy collector such as a photovoltaic cell. This allows for very thin modules whose thickness is comparable to the height of the solar energy collector. This eliminates eliminating the depth requirements inherent in traditional concentrated photovoltaic solar energy systems. | 11-06-2008 |
| 20080276982 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR OPTIMAL LIGHT COLLECTION ARRAY - Apparatus and methods according to various aspects of the present invention may operate in conjunction with a light collection array. One or more light redirectors located at or near inactive areas of light collection arrays may redirect incident light to active areas. In one embodiment, the light redirector may be implemented with additional light redirectors and/or a concentrating photovoltaic collection system. | 11-13-2008 |
| 20080283115 | Solar Battery Module and Photovoltaic Generation Device - A solar cell module, comprising a front surface member | 11-20-2008 |
| 20080289680 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE WITH IMPROVED HEAT TRANSFER AND RECOVERY POTENTIAL - A photovoltaic module with improved thermal properties, a method of making same and a structural, thermally improved photovoltaic panel are provided. A plurality of perforations are formed substantially entirely through the module which form a ventilation mechanism allowing heat to be transferred from the front side of the module to the rear side of the module. The perforations may be formed at a number of different stages in the manufacture of the module. Tubular reinforcements such as eyelets may be placed within the holes, preferably when the encapsulating material is only partially cured. The photovoltaic module may be attached to a structural and thermally conductive substrate, with sufficient strength for module to be utilized as stand-alone panel or building-integrated façade panel, simultaneously containing a large heat exchange surface area and provision for turbulent air flow. | 11-27-2008 |
| 20080295883 | ADAPTIVE SOLAR CONCENTRATOR SYSTEM - An adaptive solar concentrator system comprising a controller, a solar energy collector and a solar concentrator with variable concentration ratio is disclosed. The concentration ratio of the variable solar concentrator is varied to maximize the energy collection potential of the solar energy collector in response to fluctuations in incoming solar irradiation to best match the optimum operating conditions of the solar collector and to not exceed the maximum operating conditions of the solar collector for long term reliability. | 12-04-2008 |
| 20080302405 | Supplemental solar energy collector - A supplemental solar energy collection system. A photovoltaic panel converts incident radiation into electricity. A housing includes a top thermally conductive surface mated with the photovoltaic panel and serving as a thermal collector. Open channels behind the thermally conductive surface carry fluid in contact with the top thermally conductive surface for removing heat from the photovoltaic panel. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080314435 | Nano engineered photo electrode for photoelectrochemical, photovoltaic and sensor applications - A unit nano photo cell comprised of a first component of conductive or semi conductive crystalline material, forming a backbone which spreads out in a three dimensional structural fashion, a second component of at least one photo active material bound to the first component, and a third component of carrier mobility promoter material bound to the second component, all of which together constitute a framework for separating electrons from holes when a light source is provide to the unit nano photo cell such that the second component acts as a photo active center, converting incoming photons into pairs of electron-holes, the first component transports electrons from the second component to a common bottom plate, and the third component extracts the holes from the second component and discharges them via a conductive pathway to a common top plate. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20080314436 | Solar augmentation system - The present invention relates to a solar panel condenser apparatus that includes an optical condenser and a photovoltaic cell. The optical condenser may be two or more stages of Fresnel lenses. The optical condenser may also include one or more optical devices to separate sunlight into frequency bands so that light of different frequency bands falls on photovoltaic cells appropriate to the frequency band. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20080314437 | Multiple Heliostats Concentrator - A multi heliostat concentrating (MHC) system for utilizing sun energy has at least on MHC module. A MHC module has at least one optical concentrator having a focusin reflective surface, aperture and an optical axis. A plurality of heliostats, which are preferably located symmetrically relative to the optical axis of an optical concentrator simultaneously reflect sun radiation towards its aperture. Flux error correcting an flux homogenizing device disposed at the focal region of an optical concentrato provides for further concentrating and homogenizing the flux of the focused su radiation. A receiver preferably comprising concentrated photovoltaic cells and a optional passive heat-sink provides for efficiently and economically generatin electrical power. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20090014053 | Process for the energy conversion of solar radiation into electric power and heat with colour-selective interference filter reflectors and a concentrator solar collector with colour-selective reflectors as an appliance for applying this process - The invention relates to a method and a device for a concentrator/solar collector for splitting solar radiation into various spectral colours by means of colour-selective mirrors, and for concentrating the same onto a plurality of semiconductor-photovoltaic cells optimised for various light colours. The inventive device is used to convert the energy of the solar radiation into an electrical current and heat with a high efficiency. | 01-15-2009 |
| 20090014054 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR INSTALLATION - A photovoltaic solar installation includes solar trackers, respective fixed support structures, and a mobile frame assembled on each support structure. The mobile frame bears a solar panel for rotation in relation to the fixed structure to orient the solar panel to follow the movement of the sun to obtain impingement of sunlight on the solar panels. A connection element attaches to all the mobile frames and to drive means. Control means controls the drive means in order to move the connection element in both directions to make all the mobile frames rotate simultaneously. A circular structure concentric to the axis of rotation of each mobile frame provides a support track for the connection element so that the connection element runs over at least part of a peripheral contour of the circular structures of the mobile frames, being fixed at a point of the peripheral contour of each circular structure. | 01-15-2009 |
| 20090014055 | Photovoltaic Modules Having a Filling Material - A photovoltaic module comprising an elongated substrate in which at least a portion of the elongated substrate is rigid is provided. One or more solar cells are disposed on the elongated substrate and each comprise: (i) a back-electrode disposed on the elongated substrate, (ii) a semiconductor junction layer disposed on all or a portion of a surface of the back-electrode, and (iii) a transparent conductive layer, having a first refractive index, is disposed on all or a portion of a surface of the semiconductor junction. The photovoltaic module further comprises a filler material, having a second refractive index that is smaller or equal in value to the first refractive index, disposed on the transparent conductive layer of the one or more solar cells. The photovoltaic module further comprises a transparent casing disposed on the filler material thereby sealing the photovoltaic module. | 01-15-2009 |
| 20090020150 | STRUCTURES OF ORDERED ARRAYS OF SEMICONDUCTORS - A device having arrays of semiconductor structures with dimensions, ordering and orientations to provide for light absorption and charge carrier separation. The semiconductor structures are formed with relatively high aspect ratios, that is, the structures are long in the direction of received light, but have relatively small radii to facilitate efficient radial collection of carriers. | 01-22-2009 |
| 20090025778 | SHADING PROTECTION FOR SOLAR CELLS AND SOLAR CELL MODULES - In accordance with one aspect of the invention, there is provided a shading protected solar cell apparatus for use in a solar cell system. The apparatus includes a solar cell having a front side current collector and a back side current collector. The apparatus also includes a bypass diode closely adjacent the back side current collector, the bypass diode having a front side current collector and a back side current collector. The apparatus further includes a first electrical coupling for electrically coupling the front side current collector of the bypass diode to the back side current collector of the solar cell. The apparatus also includes a second electrical coupling for electrically coupling the back side current collector of the bypass diode to the front side current collector of the solar cell, the first and second electrical couplings cooperating to enable a current generated by non-shaded solar cells in the system to be shunted through the bypass diode when the solar cell is shaded. The apparatus further includes a thermal coupling thermally coupling the bypass diode to a back side of the solar cell such that heat generated in the bypass diode due to current shunted through the bypass diode is dissipated by the solar cell sufficiently to avoid burning the solar cell or the bypass diode when the solar cell is shaded. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090025779 | SOLAR CELL ASSEMBLY - A solar cell assembly includes a first solar cell panel, a second solar cell panel, and at least one first light diverging lens. The first solar cell panel has at least one first through hole defined therein. The at least one first light diverging lens is embedded in the at least one first through hole of the first solar cell panel. The at least one first light diverging lens is configured for diverging sunlight incident thereupon and forming a first diverged light output. The second solar cell panel is spaced apart from the first solar cell panel and facing towards the at least one first light diverging lens. The second solar cell panel is configured for receiving and converting the first diverged light output into electric power. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090032083 | Solar Collection Device - Solar collection devices make use of (a) an absorption body including luminescent material and (b) photovoltaic (PV) cells placed at the edges of the absorption body. The luminescent material absorbs solar radiation and generates luminescent radiation of a different wavelength. The PV cells receive the luminescent radiation and convert it into electrical energy. The devices have one or more of the following characteristics:—(a) the luminescent material is such that part of the radiation is converted into electrical energy and part of the radiation is transmitted; (b) the PV cells are bifacial, i.e. will generate electricity in response to radiation from both sides; (c) the PV cells have electrodes which do not lie between the PV cell and the luminescent body; and (d) the constitution and/or dimensions of the PV cells and/or of the luminescent body are selected so as to provide a desired result, e.g. a desired spatial variation in the generation of luminescent radiation, a desired spatial variation in the ratio of absorption to transmission, or more uniform generation of current in the different PV cells. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090032084 | OPTIMIZATION OF GROUND COVERAGE OF TERRESTRIAL SOLAR ARRAY SYSTEM - A concentrator photovoltaic solar cell array for terrestrial use for generating electrical power from solar radiation including a central support which is rotatable about its central longitudinal axis, a support frame carried by, and rotatable with respect to, the central support about an axis orthogonal to said central longitudinal axis, and a solar array mounted on the support frame. The solar cell array includes a plurality of Fresnel concentrator lenses and multijunction III-V compound semiconductor solar cells each producing in excess of 10 watts of DC power. An actuator is provided for rotating the central support and the support frame so that the solar cell array is maintained substantially orthogonal to the rays of the sun as the sun traverses the sky. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090032085 | APPARATUS FOR GENERATING AC ELECTRIC POWER FROM PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS - A light distribution system is used in a method for converting solar or artificial light into AC electricity by collecting, concentrating and time-sharing light to a number of photovoltaic cells. The cells are arranged in an array arranged such that the beam traverses relative to the photovoltaic cells so as to fall repeatedly on each of the cells as the drive arrangement causes movement of a light deflecting member. The cells are arranged in pairs connected to a primary winding of a transformer by a resonant circuit for delivering from the transformer the AC power supply substantially in a sinusoidal waveform. The movement can be in a single direction or reciprocating. The transformer can be connected to a power grid and the movement synchronized to the frequency and phase of the grid by an optical or radio link. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090032086 | TERRESTRIAL SOLAR ARRAY INCLUDING A RIGID SUPPORT FRAME - A concentrator photovoltaic solar cell array system includes a central support mountable on a surface and a solar cell array including triple junction III-V semiconductor compound solar cell receivers and a support frame coupled to the solar cell array and carried by, and rotatable with respect to, the central support about an axis orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis. The support frame can include (i) a first frame assembly coupled to the solar cell array and (ii) a second frame assembly coupled to the first frame assembly arranged to increase the rigidity thereof. The system also has an actuator for rotating the central support and the support frame as well as pivoting the support frame so as to adjust its angle with respect to the earth's surface, so that the solar cell array is maintained substantially orthogonal to the rays from the sun as the sun traverses the sky. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090032087 | Manufacturing processes for light concentrating solar module - Solar module manufacturing methods for manufacturing a light concentrating solar module including photovoltaic (PV) cells. The method includes applying an interconnect material to a flexible electrical backplane having preformed conductive interconnect circuitry to form interconnect attachments. The method aligns an array of back contact PV cells with the interconnect attachments. Conductive pathways are formed between the PV cells and the conductive interconnects of the flexible electrical backplane. The method includes providing a light concentrating layer between PV cells that are spaced apart. The method applies an encapsulant material to fill spaces formed between the PV cells and the flexible electrical backplane to form a solar cell subassembly, which is incorporated into the light concentrating solar module. | 02-05-2009 |
| 20090038673 | Solar emergency power kit - A portable power source kit is presented. The kit includes a lower box having a lower box volume, a storage battery contained in the lower box volume and an upper box having an upper box volume and attachable to the lower box. A power adapter is contained in the upper box volume. The power adapter includes at least one or more inputs and at least one or more outputs. The power adapter is electrically connected to the storage battery. A power inverter is contained in the upper box volume. The inverter is electrically connected to the storage battery for providing DC to AC power conversion. And, a solar panel assembly is electrically connected to the power adapter where the assembly provides power to the power adapter for use in charging the storage battery and delivering power to the one or more outputs. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090044851 | SOLAR POWER SYSTEM - A solar collector includes one or more diffractive optical elements that concentrate light in two dimensions. The optical elements may be flat inexpensive plastic gratings or holograms, The elements provide an inexpensive way to concentrate sunlight or other radiation, for example directing the radiation to a collector such as one or more photovoltaic devices. The radiation may be binned in different wavelengths, and directed to different collector devices. The optical elements may have diffractive gratings on their surfaces, or alternatively may have internal gratings, for example provided by internal variations in index of refraction. Thus the optical elements may be volume phase gratings or suitable such diffractive elements. Volume holograms offer reduced solar tracking requirements compared to surface gratings. | 02-19-2009 |
| 20090050191 | System and Method for Solar Tracking - The present invention is a solar tracking system which utilizes three supports arranged in a generally tripod configuration. In one embodiment, two of the supports are linear actuators, and the third support is a stationary universally pivoting joint such as a ball and socket joint. The tracking system may include cross-supports for increased stability, a linear rail for additional range of motion, and a mounting base to facilitate installation. This solar tracking system offers a stable, cost-effective design which is also capable of moving the solar module into an optional stowed position. | 02-26-2009 |
| 20090050192 | Tracking-Type Photovoltaic Power Generation System, Method for Controlling the System, and Program Product for Controlling the System - There is provided a system control method which reduces maximum energy consumption in a tracking-type photovoltaic power generation system having a plurality of tracking-type photovoltaic power generation devices and reduces energy supply capacity. An integrated control part drives driving parts in each of tracking-type photovoltaic power generation devices at predetermined time intervals and drives the driving parts at different times, which can disperse temporally the large energy consumed at the time of activation of the driving parts in the tracking-type photovoltaic power generation devices, thereby reducing the energy supply capacity. | 02-26-2009 |
| 20090056785 | DUAL TROUGH CONCENTRATING SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A solar energy collector suitable for use in a solar energy collection system. The collector may have a plurality of reflector panels, a support structure that supports the reflector panels in a manner that defines a pair of adjacent reflector troughs, each trough having a base, a pair of reflective side walls and a trough aperture suitable for receiving incident sunlight during operation of the collector, a plurality of solar receivers positioned generally adjacent an edge of an associated trough and including at least one photovoltaic cell, wherein the reflector panels are arranged to direct incident sunlight towards the solar receivers using a single reflection during operation of the collector, and a frame that is coupled to the support structure near the bases of the troughs to define a closed reflector support truss framework. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090056786 | Photovoltaic receiver - A solar receiver can have a base plate having a first surface and a second surface, a plurality of solar cells positioned over and supported by the first surface of the base plate, each solar cell having a cell face suitable for receiving solar radiation that faces away from the base plate, the plurality of solar cells being arranged in at least one string having a string axis, and a plurality of fins attached directly to the second surface of the base plate, wherein the fins extend outwardly from the second surface of the base plate in a direction that is generally perpendicular to both the string axis and the solar cell faces. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090056787 | Concentrating solar collector - A solar energy collector is provided having at least one reflector panel, a plurality of solar receivers, and a support structure that supports the at least one reflector panels in a manner that defines a reflector troughs having a trough base, a pair of reflective side walls and a trough aperture suitable for receiving incident sunlight during operation of the collector, wherein each reflective side wall has a curvature that approximates a quarter parabola segment to thereby concentrate incident solar radiation on the plurality of solar receivers. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090056788 | NOTCH STRUCTURE FOR CONCENTRATING MODULE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE USING PHOTOVOLTAIC STRIPS - The invention provides a solar concentrator structure including a first concentrating element. The first concentrating element includes a first aperture region, a first exit region, a first side and a second side. The solar concentrator structure further includes a second or more concentrating elements integrally coupled with the first concentrating element in a parallel manner. The second concentrating element includes a second aperture region, a second exit region, the third side, and a fourth side. The third side joins with the second side to form an apex notch structure characterized by a radius of curvature. Additionally, the solar concentrator structure includes a separation region by a width separating the first exit region from the second exit region and a triangular region including the apex notch structure and a base defined by the separation region and a refractive index of about 1 characterizing the triangular region. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090056789 | Solar concentrator and solar concentrator array - A solar concentrator with a folded beam optical configuration allowing for compact, lightweight construction. Reflective optics may additionally be employed, including dichroic mirrors and/or antireflection coatings, to remove prevent unwanted infrared radiation reaching the solar cell. An array of such solar concentrators is also disclosed. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090056790 | Monolithic Mirror Array - The present invention is an improved solar concentrator array utilizing a monolithic array of primary mirrors fabricated from a single sheet of formable material. The material may include glass, plastic, and metal of a high thermal stability to be able to withstand a broad range of temperature conditions. The monolithic array of this invention may include integral alignment or attachment features for attachment to a supporting structure. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090065044 | CONCENTRATOR-BASED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM BY PARALLIZING AND SPLITTING THE HIGH INTENSITY LIGHT - The present invention is a high-intensity-light split-based photovoltaic system. More particularly, it is a photovoltaic system that utilizes the sunlight according to the frequency band via splitting the concentrated high intensity light flux for the purpose of generating electricity. In the invention, the light is concentrated with the large first lens called “the concentrating lens” and then the high intensity light is parallelized with the small second lens called “the parallelizing lens” with short focal length. Finally, such parallelized high intensity light is split with a prism. As a result, the light flux is separated spatially according to its frequency so that several photovoltaic cells with different “Band Gap Energies” can be deployed to generate electricity separately at each band. The invention also employs the light recycling structure that covers the whole photovoltaic cells with mirrors to redirect the reflected light to the photovoltaic cells. | 03-12-2009 |
| 20090065045 | SOLAR ELECTRICITY GENERATION SYSTEM - A solar electricity generation system including a solar energy-to-electricity converter having a solar energy receiving surface including at least an electricity-generating solar energy receiving surface and a plurality of reflectors arranged to reflect solar energy directly onto the solar energy receiving surface, each of the plurality of reflectors having a reflecting surface which is configured and located and aligned with respect to the solar energy receiving surface to reflect specular solar radiation with a high degree of uniformity onto the solar energy receiving surface, the configuration, location and alignment of each of the reflectors being such that the geometrical projection of each reflecting surface is substantially coextensive with the electricity-generating solar energy receiving surface. | 03-12-2009 |
| 20090071528 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - The present invention relates to a solar cell module ( | 03-19-2009 |
| 20090078302 | Photovoltaic Device and Plant With Selective Concentration of the Incident Radiation - The invention relates to a photovoltaic device ( | 03-26-2009 |
| 20090078303 | Encapsulated Photovoltaic Device Used With A Reflector And A Method of Use for the Same - An apparatus is provided that has photovoltaic modules and a concentrator mechanically attached to a frame. Each module has (i) an outer shell defining an inner volume, (ii) a substrate in the inner volume, and (iii) a material on the substrate that converts light to electric energy. The outer shell allows light energy that strikes the shell to be directed towards the material. The concentrator has concentrator assemblies, each associated with a respective photovoltaic module. Each concentrator assembly comprises a first and second surface that form a concave structure that transmits light energy entering the concave structure to the associated photovoltaic module. The first and second surfaces each comprise substantially the shape of the involute of the particular photovoltaic module associated with the concentrator assembly. Each photovoltaic module extends from a first to a second support of the frame and is electrically coupled to an electric contact in the first support. | 03-26-2009 |
| 20090084429 | STAND-ALONE, INTERACTIVE MODULAR ENERGY-PRODUCTION SYSTEM - Stand-alone, interactive modular solar-energy-production system. This system consists of an oblong frame that supports the photovoltaic field that receives the solar energy, an azimuth/zenith tracker, an actuating means generator and computerized control means. The base of the frame is supported in a rotary fashion on a shaft fixed securely in the ground and is supported by rolling means that can move in a rotary fashion over the ground with respect to said fixed shaft. During rotation, the rolling means adapt to the ground via tilting means associated with the fixed shaft that enable the frame to maintain balance. The base is coupled to said fixed shaft in an off-centre position and the rolling means, also, are off-centre with respect to said fixed shaft, which enables the frame to be oriented with respect to the wind in the manner of a wind vane. | 04-02-2009 |
| 20090084430 | Supplemental solar energy collector - A supplemental solar energy collection system including a photovoltaic panel which converts incident radiation into electricity. A housing includes a top thermally conductive surface mated with the photovoltaic panel and serving as a thermal collector. Open channels behind the thermally conductive surface carry fluid in contact with the top thermally conductive surface for removing heat from the photovoltaic panel. | 04-02-2009 |
| 20090084431 | SOLAR TRACKING REFLECTOR SYSTEM FOR STRUCTURE LIGHTING - A solar tracking device is mounted above a skylight of a building. An array of mirrors is rotated at a rate of one revolution per day to reflect sunlight through the skylight. A control circuit intermittently adjusts the angular position of the tracking device so that the mirrors face the sun. A solar array charges an internal energy storage system so that no external power source is needed. The control circuit within the tracking device reduces the power requirements at night and when not moving the tracking device during the daytime to conserve electrical energy. | 04-02-2009 |
| 20090095340 | SOLAR CELL ASSEMBLY - A solar cell assembly includes a first solar cell panel, a second solar cell panel, and at least one light guide assembly. The first solar cell panel has at least one first through hole defined therein. The second solar cell panel faces and is spaced from the first solar cell panel. The at least one light guide assembly comprises a light diverging lens engaged in the first through hole of the first solar cell panel, and a light guide body aligned with the light diverging lens and located between the first and second solar cell panels. The light diverging lens is configured for diverging sunlight incident thereupon and forming diverged light. The light guide body has an incident surface for receiving the diverged light, and emitting surfaces for emitting light to the second solar cell panel. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090095341 | Solar Modules With Enhanced Efficiencies Via Use of Spectral Concentrators - Described herein are solar modules including spectral concentrators. In one embodiment, a solar module includes an active layer including a set of photovoltaic cells. The solar module also includes a spectral concentrator optically coupled to the active layer and including a luminescent material that exhibits photoluminescence in response to incident solar radiation. The photoluminescence has: (a) a quantum efficiency of at least 30 percent; (b) a spectral width no greater than 100 nm at Full Width at Half Maximum; and (c) a peak emission wavelength in the near infrared range. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090101192 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES WITH INTEGRATED COLOR INTERFEROMETRIC FILM STACKS - Color photovoltaic (PV) devices formed using interferometric stacks tuned to reflect color covering the front side or back side of a PV cell, device, panel, or array are disclosed. Interferometric stacks covering PV devices include interferometric modulators (IMODs), or dichroic pair stacks. Such devices can be configured to reflect enough light of select wavelengths so as to impart a color, while transmitting enough light to the PV active material so as to generate useful electricity. | 04-23-2009 |
| 20090101193 | SOLAR CELL ASSEMBLY - A solar cell includes a plurality of solar panels arranged in parallel, and a light-reflective member adjacent to the plurality of solar panels. Each solar panel is spaced a predetermined distance from another, and the light-reflective member is configured for reflecting sunlight to the solar panels. | 04-23-2009 |
| 20090101194 | Method and system for converting light to electric power - A method and system for converting light to electric power including coupling in parallel at least two devices in a first plurality of devices suitable to convert light to electric power, coupling in parallel at least two devices in at least one additional plurality of devices suitable to convert light to electric power, and coupling in series the first plurality of devices suitable to convert light electricity with the at least one additional plurality of devices suitable to convert light to electric power. A method for converting electromagnetic flux to electric power. A method for optimizing the electric power output of a system including determining the expected illumination pattern of incident laser radiation, and optimizing the amount of laser radiation incident on the surface of the devices suitable to convert light to electric power by distributing the devices according to the expected illumination pattern of the incident laser beam. | 04-23-2009 |
| 20090101195 | MINI-TRUSS THIN-SHEET PANEL ASSEMBLY - A mini-truss thin-sheet panel assembly. In one embodiment, a substantially rigid thin-sheet panel assembly having a non-rigid thin-sheet component includes the thin-sheet component which has selected plan area and shape, a backer having a plan shape and area substantially similar to the thin-sheet component, and plural riser elements of selected height and configuration each extending from the backer to distal ends connected to a reverse surface of the thin-sheet component, the riser elements being configured and disposed in an array which causes the assembly to have substantial rigidity in a selected direction in the thin-sheet component. | 04-23-2009 |
| 20090107540 | Non-Imaging Concentrator With Spacing Nubs - The present invention is a solar energy system which includes an optical assembly and a non-imaging concentrator. The optical assembly includes a primary mirror and a secondary mirror. The optical assembly reflects solar radiation to the non-imaging concentrator where the radiation is output to a photovoltaic cell for conversion to electricity. Spacing nubs, or protrusions, may be configured on one or more surfaces of the non-imaging concentrator or the optical assembly to set a uniform gap for adhesive to fill and to assist in alignment of the components being bonded together. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090107541 | Concentrated Solar Photovoltaic Module - A solar photovoltaic module containing a housing that supports an array of photovoltaic cells and corresponding light guides. The housing includes a base member having a generally planar support surface and two side walls projecting from the support surface. Two side panels detachably connect to the side walls, and a top panel detachably connects to the side panels. The top panel includes a plurality of concentrating lenses that focus incident solar radiation into the inside of the housing towards the light guide. The light guides are disposed between the corresponding concentrating lenses and photovoltaic cells such that the concentrating lenses and light guides work together to direct light onto the photovoltaic cells. At least one retaining member interfaces to the light guides and applies a downward force that biases the respective light guides toward the corresponding photovoltaic cells. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090107542 | Solar collector stabilized by cables and a compression element - A solar collector system including solar elements connected to form an array for intercepting the sun's radiation, a compression element that is positioned substantially perpendicular to the array, and pairs of cables that run from opposite sides of the array to the compression element to mutually stabilize each portion of the array to which the pair of cables connects. A support structure is provided for securing the array to a fixed structure. A tracking system further provides the system with two degrees of freedom for tracking the array with the sun's movement. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090114265 | Solar Concentrator - The present invention is an improved solar concentrator array utilizing a monolithic array of primary mirrors with a metal layer deposited on its backside for electrical purposes and for dissipating heat. The array of primary mirrors may be formed by glass slumping. The size of the primary mirrors is chosen to accommodate design aspects related to performance, manufacturing processes, cost, and thermal management. An electrical package, which in one embodiment is a molded leadframe, provides the electrical circuitry between a solar cell and the metal layer. The electrical package may be configured with features such as an aperture or side edges to enhance manufacturability of the solar concentrator array. An array of secondary mirrors may be integrally formed with a front panel of the solar concentrator. | 05-07-2009 |
| 20090114266 | High concentration, spectrum spitting, broad bandwidth, hologram photovoltaic solar collector - An improved method of converting solar energy into electricity by spreading the solar spectrum and concentrating it onto solar cells that are band-gaped in the corresponding wavelength range. The spectrally separated solar energy can be concentrated into a normal rainbow line or spread out to individual regions. A low cost solar energy conversion collector results because concentration reduces the quantity of photovoltaic cells needed and spectral splitting increases the energy collected by using multiple appropriately band-gaped solar cells in the different wavelengths. | 05-07-2009 |
| 20090114267 | Clock operated step function solar tracker - The present invention describes a solar panel system tracker that closely approximates the output levels of an actively tracked system but at significantly reduced levels of complexity and cost. The present invention is comprised of a clock that generates a five degree step function which moves the solar panel system in five degree increments over the period of the solar day. This provides approximately thirty-five separate adjustments throughout the day, yielding an aggregate output performance of approximately 90 percent compared to a fully tracked system. | 05-07-2009 |
| 20090120486 | Bifacial Solar Cell Array - First and second solar panels are mounted in an operative position. Each panel includes an upward-facing photovoltaic surface and a downward-facing photovoltaic surface that are configured to photovoltaically generate electricity from light. The downward-facing photovoltaic surface is spaced above a reflective surface. The first and second panels are spaced apart in a first direction by a spacing distance that is about 25% to about 100% of the width of the first panel in the first direction. Some downwardly-directed light rays can strike the upward-facing photovoltaic surfaces of the panels. Other downwardly-directed light rays can pass between the first and second panels and be reflected upward by the reflective surface to strike the downward-facing photovoltaic surfaces of the panels. | 05-14-2009 |
| 20090120487 | Method and System for Assembling A Solar Cell Using a Plurality of Photovoltaic Regions - A solar cell device. The device has a housing member. The device also has a lead frame member coupled to the housing member. In a preferred embodiment, the lead frame member has at least one photovoltaic strip thereon, which has a surface region and a back side region. The device has an optical elastomer material having a first thickness overlying the surface region of the photovoltaic surface. The device has a second substrate member comprising at least one optical concentrating element thereon. The optical concentrating element has a first side and a second side. The device has a first interface within a vicinity of the surface region and the first thickness of the optical elastomer material and a second interface within a vicinity of the second side and the optical elastomer material. In a specific embodiment, the optical concentrating element is coupled to the surface region of the photovoltaic strip such that the optical elastomer material is in between the surface region of the photovoltaic strip and the second side of the optical concentrating element. In a specific embodiment, the device has a spacing comprising essentially the optical elastomer material between the second side of the optical concentrating element and the surface region of the photovoltaic strip. The device has a plurality of particles having a predetermined dimension (e.g., non-compressible and substantially non-deformable particles) spatially disposed overlying the surface region of the photovoltaic strip and within a second thickness of the optical elastomer material to define the spacing between the surface region and the second side of the optical concentrating element. In a specific embodiment, the first interface is substantially free from one or more gaps (e.g., air gaps and/or pockets) and the second interface substantially free from one or more gaps to form a substantially continuous optical interface from the first side of the optical concentrating element, through the first interface, and through the second interface to the photovoltaic strip. | 05-14-2009 |
| 20090126776 | Radiation Concentrating Device - A radiation concentrating device, comprising a substantially parabolic mirror, which is adapted to reflect the energy radiation or electromagnetic radiation that reaches it so as to converge toward an active area of a receiving element arranged in front, the active area being interposed between the focal point of the mirror and the mirror itself, the mirror and the receiving element being fixed by way of coupling elements to a same base. The transverse dimension of the active area is smaller than the transverse dimension of the mirror arranged in front. The base is preset to support a plurality of parabolic mirrors and corresponding receiving elements, which are mutually connected by conductors. | 05-21-2009 |
| 20090126777 | SIMULTANEOUS LIGHT COLLECTION AND ILLUMINATION ON AN ACTIVE DISPLAY - In various embodiments described herein, a display device comprising a light collection film and a photovoltaic device disposed on an edge of the collection film. The collection film has a plurality of light-turning features for redirecting light between the front and back surface of the collection film and the photovoltaic device. In some embodiments, a light source is also disposed on an edge of the collection film and emits light which is turned by the light-turning features toward the display. | 05-21-2009 |
| 20090133737 | Concentrating Solar Power Generation Unit, Concentrating Solar Power Generation Apparatus, Concetrating Lens, Concentrating Lens Structure, and Method of Manufacturing Concentrating Lens Structure - A concentrating solar power generation unit ( | 05-28-2009 |
| 20090139563 | SOLAR ENERGY EXPLOITING DEVICE - The solar energy exploiting device contains a flat base and a transparent stand having a flat top side and two parallel walls raised perpendicularly from a top side of the base. One or more solar panels, electrically connected in series or in parallel, are attached to the top side or beneath the top side of the stand, facing downward towards the base. Two reflection mirrors are positioned besides the two walls of the stand such that each reflection mirror is slanted at an angle from the top side of the base and has its reflection surface facing towards the solar panel. | 06-04-2009 |
| 20090151769 | DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR IMPROVED SOLAR CELL ENERGY COLLECTION AND SOLAR CELL PROTECTION - An apparatus, system and method are provided for optimizing energy retrieval from an array of solar cells and protecting the array of solar cells from weather-related conditions, including moving a reflector panel to a predetermined angular position on the basis of an ambient condition, or some other factor. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090151770 | METHOD AND MATERIAL FOR COUPLING SOLAR CONCENTRATORS AND PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES - A method and system for manufacturing an integrated concentrator photovoltaic device is disclosed. In an embodiment, the invention includes a one step process using a sheet of coupling material provided in a pre-arranged pattern to couple an array of photovoltaic members to an array of respective optical concentrating members. In another embodiment, the invention includes an integrated concentrator photovoltaic device made by coupling a photovoltaic member and an optical concentrating member together through an encapsulant or coupling layer formed from a sheet member of coupling materials possessing a pre-arranged pattern | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090151771 | PHOTOVOLTAICS WITH INTERFEROMETRIC RIBBON MASKS - An interferometric mask covering a reflective conductive ribbon that electrically interconnects a plurality of photovoltaic cells is disclosed. Such an interferometric mask may reduce reflections of incident light from the conductors. In various embodiments, the mask reduces reflections, so that a front and back electrode pattern appears black or similar in color to surrounding features of the device. In other embodiments, the mask may modulate reflections of light such that the electrode pattern matches a color in the visible spectrum. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090165842 | SOLID CONCENTRATOR WITH TOTAL INTERNAL SECONDARY REFLECTION - A system includes a solid light-transmissive element comprising a first surface and a second surface, first reflective material disposed on the second surface of the light-transmissive element, and a solar cell to convert light received at the first surface to electrical current. The light received at the first surface may pass through the light-transmissive element, reflect off the first reflective material and intercept an area of an interface between the first surface and an adjacent environment at an angle of incidence greater than arc sin(n | 07-02-2009 |
| 20090173375 | SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION DEVICES AND SYSTEMS - Methods and devices are presented that allow the harvest of electricity, heat and lighting simultaneously from a solar converter, often at less cost than conventional solar collectors. The converters use slats to intercept sunlight. Slat surfaces in the direct light path may be coated with photovoltaic (PV) material, or may be shaped to concentrate sunlight, allowing less PV material to capture reflected, concentrated light for improved economics. Forcing air flow past enclosed slats let the slats operate as PV heat sinks, heat absorbers, and heat exchangers capturing much of the solar energy that is not converted to electricity, as heat. Embodiments also allow passage of indirect light to supplement interior artificial lighting, often with positive aesthetic effects. These slatted apertures mitigate glare and overheating problems associated with typical skylights and some windows, allowing wider use as architectural elements. The devices also can be integrated into new building construction, and serve a dual purpose as building structural components. | 07-09-2009 |
| 20090183761 | SOLAR ENERGY ABSORBING DEVICE - A solar energy absorbing device comprises a plurality of magnifying glasses which are formed as an integral body and are combined by adhesion or by using a frame for absorbing solar energy; a plurality of focusing sheets spaced from the magnifying glasses and for focusing the light from the magnifying glasses; a plurality of optical fibers connected to the focusing sheets for transferring the light focused by the focusing sheets; and at least one photoelectric converter for converting the solar energy into electric energy. | 07-23-2009 |
| 20090183762 | LOW-VOLTAGE TRACKING SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - A solar concentrator can include at least one optical element for concentrating incident light, a receiver assembly comprising a base plate comprising a first conductive layer and second conductive layer, wherein the first conductive layer and second conductive layer are characterized by a voltage differential when exposed to light, and a plurality of photovoltaic cells mounted to the base plate, each cell comprising a first terminal connected to the first conductive layer and a second terminal connected to the second conductive layer, a frame; step-up voltage means, electrically connected to the receiver assembly, for increasing said voltage differential, an electrical circuit for conducting current generated by the receiver assembly, the circuit comprising a first conductive member configured to conduct electricity between the first conductive layer and step-up voltage means and a second conductive member configured to conduct electricity between the second conductive layer and step-up voltage means. | 07-23-2009 |
| 20090183763 | Flat-Plate Photovoltaic Module - One example embodiment includes a PV module comprising a conductive backsheet, a non-conductive layer disposed on the conductive backsheet, a plurality of PV cells arranged in rows and collectively generating a first power output characterized by a first voltage, and a power conversion device. Each of the rows can include two or more PV cells. The PV cells within each row can be connected to each other in parallel. The rows can be connected in series. A top row can be connected to the conductive backsheet. The power conversion device can be redundantly connected to a bottom row and to the conductive backsheet to form a complete circuit. The power conversion device can convert the first power output to a second power output characterized b a second voltage that is larger than the first voltage. The power conversion device can also maintain peak power of the PV cells. | 07-23-2009 |
| 20090183764 | Detachable Louver System - One example embodiment includes a detachable louver system comprising primary louvers and a frame. The primary louvers are arranged substantially parallel to each other and are configured to reflect light rays incident on the primary louvers onto photovoltaic areas of a photovoltaic module. The frame is configured to support the primary louvers and to removably couple the detachable louver system to the photovoltaic module. | 07-23-2009 |
| 20090188545 | TRACKING AND FOCUSING ADJUSTABLE FRESNEL LENS ARRAY SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - This invention deals with novel method and apparatus for positioning and motion control of the elements (lenses) of a Fresnel lens solar concentrator tracking array by induced and/or permanent dipole coupling to an electronic grid to produce angular deflection, and rotational motion. Thus forces and torques are produced without the use of internal moving parts. Control can be achieved without recourse to magnetic fields, by means of high electric fields which may be attained at relatively low voltages. At low voltages, the instant invention exceeds the capability of conventional systems. It can perform dynamic motion control with independent amplitude and frequency modulation. It is ideally suited for maximization of solar energy focused by the array onto a receiver. Since there are no mechanical likages, the instant invention is the most adapted for fabrication from the mini- to the micro-technology realm. Furthermore it provides less costly and greater ease of manufacture from the mini-to the micro-realm. | 07-30-2009 |
| 20090188546 | TERRESTRIAL SOLAR POWER SYSTEM USING III-V SEMICONDUCTOR SOLAR CELLS - A system for generating electrical power from solar radiation utilizing a thin film III-V compound multijunction semiconductor solar cell mounted on a support in a non-planar configuration. | 07-30-2009 |
| 20090199889 | System and Method for the Improvement of Photovoltaic Cell Efficiency - A system and method for increasing photovoltaic cell efficiency is provided, comprising a photovoltaic cell, a filter covering the photovoltaic cell at a first angle to the photovoltaic cell, and a mirror positioned adjacent to the filter at a second angle to the photovoltaic cell, the mirror operable to reflect light into the filter. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090199890 | Solar cell receiver for concentrated photovoltaic system for III-V semiconductor solar cell - A solar cell module comprises an array of lenses, corresponding secondary optical elements and corresponding solar cell receivers. The solar cell receiver includes a solar cell having one or more III-V compound semiconductor layers, a diode coupled in parallel with the solar cell and connector for coupling to other solar cell receivers. The module includes a housing that supports the lenses such that each lens concentrates solar energy onto its respective solar cell. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090199891 | SOLAR CELL RECEIVER FOR CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM FOR III-V SEMICONDUCTOR SOLAR CELL - A solar cell module comprises an array of lenses, corresponding secondary optical elements and corresponding solar cell receivers. The solar cell receiver includes a solar cell having one or more III-V compound semiconductor layers, a diode coupled in parallel with the solar cell and connector for coupling to other solar cell receivers. The module includes a housing that supports the lenses such that each lens concentrates solar energy onto its respective solar cell. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090205699 | Solar-power collector - This invention proposes one kind of solar-power collecting apparatus that utilizes different lens structure and double layers of solar panel modules to optimize the absorption of solar power within a limited space, and better protect the life of solar panels by avoiding overheats generated from overly focused sunlight. | 08-20-2009 |
| 20090205700 | CONVERSION OF SOLAR ENERGY TO ELECTRICAL AND/OR HEAT ENERGY - A parabolic primary mirror ( | 08-20-2009 |
| 20090211623 | SOLAR MODULE WITH SOLAR CELL HAVING CRYSTALLINE SILICON P-N HOMOJUNCTION AND AMORPHOUS SILICON HETEROJUNCTIONS FOR SURFACE PASSIVATION - A thin silicon solar cell is described. Specifically, the solar cell may be fabricated from a crystalline silicon wafer having a thickness of approximately 50 micrometers to 500 micrometers. The solar cell comprises a first region having a p-n homojunction, a second region that creates heterojunction surface passivation, and a third region that creates heterojunction surface passivation. Amorphous silicon layers are deposited on both sides of the silicon wafer at temperatures below approximately 400 degrees Celsius to reduce the loss of passivation properties of the amorphous silicon. A final layer of transparent conductive oxide is formed on both sides at approximately 165 degrees Celsius. Metal contacts are applied to the transparent conductive oxide. The low temperatures and very thin material layers used to fabricate the outer layers of used to fabricate the outer layers of the solar cell protect the thin wafer from excessive stress that may lead to deforming the wafer. | 08-27-2009 |
| 20090235973 | Positioning system for solar panels - A system for positioning a solar panel includes a first frame and a second frame substantially parallel with the first frame. A plurality of tubes intersect the first frame and extend through the second frame. Each tube has a free end and a distal end. A photovoltaic device attached to the free end of each tube and the distal end is coupled to the first frame. Relative motion of the frames tilts the tubes and the photovoltaic devices, thereby permitting the photovoltaic devices to track the sun during the day. | 09-24-2009 |
| 20090235974 | SOLAR CONCENTRATOR AND DEVICES AND METHODS USING THEM - Solar concentrators are disclosed that improve the efficiency of PV cells and systems using them. The solar concentrators may be designed such that they include one or more chromophores that emit light to a PV cell. Various materials and components of the solar concentrators are also described. | 09-24-2009 |
| 20090235975 | Tracking Solar Collector Assembly - A tracking solar collector assembly includes solar collector support structure, with at least one solar collector mounted thereto and first and second spaced apart pivotal support points defining a tilt axis, Southside supports, with first pivot connectors, and North side supports, with a base, a second pivot connector, and one or two support elements connected to the base and to the second pivot connector at the ends thereof. The first and second support points are pivotally connected to and supported by the first pivot connectors and by the North side supports, respectively. The assembly also includes a tilting assembly causing the solar collectors therewith to tilt in unison. | 09-24-2009 |
| 20090242012 | Method and system for converting light to electric power - A method and system for converting light to electric power including coupling in parallel at least two devices in a first plurality of devices suitable to convert light to electric power, coupling in parallel at least two devices in at least one additional plurality of devices suitable to convert light to electric power, and coupling in series the first plurality of devices suitable to convert light electricity with the at least one additional plurality of devices suitable to convert light to electric power. A method for converting electromagnetic flux to electric power. A method for optimizing the electric power output of a system including determining the expected illumination pattern of incident laser radiation, and optimizing the amount of laser radiation incident on the surface of the devices suitable to convert light to electric power by distributing the devices according to the expected illumination pattern of the incident laser beam. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090242013 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell and a sealing material provided on a light entering side of the solar cell are included. The solar cell includes a photoelectric conversion body and a fine line-shaped electrode formed on a light receiving surface of the photoelectric conversion body so as to extend in one direction. Additionally, a low-refractive-index layer having a refractive index lower than a refractive index of the sealing material is provided between a light receiving surface of the fine line-shaped electrode and the sealing material so as to cover the light receiving surface of the fine line-shaped electrode. The low-refractive-index layer has an inclined surface whose central portion projects in a cross section of the low-refractive-index layer taken along a different direction perpendicular to the one direction, and the inclined surface is inclined toward the light receiving surface of the photoelectric conversion body. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090250093 | Enhanced concentrator PV pannel - The invention teaches a family of flat concentrator PV panels wherein an array of enhanced light beam splitters coupling with a plurality of optical grooves efficiently collects light and transmits collected light substantially to the active surface(s) of an array of size-reduced PV cells with low aspect ratio. | 10-08-2009 |
| 20090250094 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR LIGHT RAY CONCENTRATION - Systems and techniques for light ray concentration. In one aspect, a solar concentration assembly includes an array of light focusing elements and an array of photovoltaic devices positioned beneath the array of light focusing elements. The arrays of light focusing elements and photovoltaic devices are spaced from one another and configured to concentrate solar rays incident on the light focusing elements to the photovoltaic elements, such that solar ray communication is maintained as an angle of the assembly relative to the sun is altered by movement of the sun during a day and wherein the angle is an oblique angle for the majority of the day. | 10-08-2009 |
| 20090250095 | LOW-PROFILE SOLAR TRACKING MODULE - An apparatus for distribution of light across a target area has at least one non-shadowing lens. The non-shadowing lens has a plurality of prisms wherein each prism provides an approximately uniform distribution of light across a defined area of the target area to reduce a shadowing effect. The apparatus may further have a tracking mechanism attached to the at least one non-shadowing lens for orienting the at least one non-shadowing lens towards a source of the light. | 10-08-2009 |
| 20090255566 | SOLAR CELL MODULES - A solar cell module is provided, including a fixture with a solar cell wafer therein and a light-transmitting component formed in the fixture. The solar cell wafer comprises a semiconductor substrate with a plurality of photovoltaic elements formed thereon, wherein the photovoltaic elements are arranged in an array and a plurality of microlenses superimposed over the semiconductor substrate. A pitch between a center of the microlens and a center of the photovoltaic element thereunder increases from a center portion of the array of the photovoltaic elements toward an edge portion of the array of the photovoltaic elements. The light-transmitting component is opposite to the microlenses and partially changes a direction of incident light collected from an ambient from not being perpendicular to a top surface of the microlenses. | 10-15-2009 |
| 20090255567 | MULTI-JUNCTION SOLAR ARRAY - A photovoltaic device includes a plurality of photovoltaic cells disposed in an array in which each cell is adjacent to another cell. Each of the cells includes first and second photovoltaic modules. The first photovoltaic module of each cell is configured to convert a first part of light energy incident thereon into electrical energy and to reflect to the second photovoltaic module of an adjacent cell at least some of a remaining portion of light energy incident thereon. The second photovoltaic module of each cell is configured to convert into electrical energy the remaining portion of the light energy received from the first photovoltaic module of an adjacent cell. | 10-15-2009 |
| 20090255568 | SOLAR PANEL WINDOW - A solar panel window for mounting to a building. The window has an interior pane and an exterior pane adjacent to each other. The exterior pane has a first ridged surface and the interior pane has a second ridged surface, which is complementary to the first ridged surface. The exterior and interior panes are secured together with their ridged surfaces facing each other. A plurality of photovoltaic solar cells are mounted on the first ridged surface of the exterior pane. The solar panel window allows light impinging thereon through a pre-determined viewing angle to be transmitted inside the building. Light impinging on the window outside the pre-determined viewing angled is directed to the plurality of solar cells. | 10-15-2009 |
| 20090255569 | METHOD TO IMPROVE PV AESTHETICS AND EFFICIENCY - Various embodiments disclosed herein comprise a photovoltaic device of improved efficiency. The photovoltaic device comprises a photovoltaic material, a reflective conductor, a total-internal-reflection surface and a microstructure. The microstructure reflects light so that some of the reflected light is incident upon the total-internal-reflection surface at an angle greater than the critical angle. In some embodiments, the photovoltaic device has a photovoltaic material, a reflective conductor, and a surface forward the conductor configured to redirect light rays directed toward the conductor such that redirected light is instead incident on the photovoltaic material. Various embodiments include a method of manufacturing a photovoltaic device of improved efficiency. Other embodiments are also described. | 10-15-2009 |
| 20090260674 | Concentrated Solar Photovoltaic Module With Protective Light Shielding - A solar photovoltaic module including a base member supporting an array of photocells as well as corresponding concentrating lenses and light guides. At least one opaque light shield defines cutouts corresponding to the light guides. The at least one opaque light shield is positioned above the base member and operates to block light incident thereon from reaching portions of the base member. The at least one light shield can be installed with a convex shape that directs condensation away from the cutouts and preferably functions as part of guide channels that guide condensation toward one or more vented hydrophilic members (e.g., sponges and the like), which are preferably disposed at one or both ends of the module. | 10-22-2009 |
| 20090266403 | SOLDER REPLACEMENT BY CONDUCTIVE TAPE MATERIAL - A method of forming a solar device. The method includes providing one or more photovoltaic cells having a front surface region and a back surface region. The method includes providing a first conductor element having a first side operably coupled to a first region of the front surface region of the one or more photovoltaic cells and a second side. In a specific embodiment, the conductor element includes a first anisotropic conducting tape material or a first conducting tape material, the first conducting element having a first thickness, a first length, and a first width. The method performs a bonding process to cause the first conductor element to conduct electric current in a first selected direction. | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090266404 | CONVERSION OF SOLAR ENERGY TO ELECTRICAL AND/OR HEAT ENERGY - A parabolic primary mirror ( | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090266405 | ELECTRIC TILE MODULES - The electrically connectable tile module includes a porous substrate having a top side, a bottom side, and at least two side edges. At least one connector is integrated into the porous substrate allowing adjoining electrically connectable tile modules to be electrically connected to the porous substrate. At least one electrical element is disposed over the top side of the porous substrate and electrically connected to the at least one connector. | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090272424 | INTEGRATING SPHERE PHOTOVOLTAIC RECEIVER (POWERSPHERE) FOR LASER LIGHT TO ELECTRIC POWER CONVERSION - A photovoltaic module for converting laser radiation from a laser emitting light at a wavelength to electrical power is provided. The module comprises: (a) a housing having a cavity of generally optimized closed shape inside the housing, the cavity having an internal surface area A | 11-05-2009 |
| 20090272425 | Concentrating solar energy receiver - A concentrating solar receiver that maximizes the amount of solar energy available for conversion to electricity that utilizes a primary reflector, a secondary reflector and a fresnel lens to both reflect and refract solar rays to a thermal cycle engine receiver which converts solar energy to mechanical energy which is in turn converted into electrical energy using an electric generator. The configuration creates focal points that protect the thermal cycle engine receiver from high temperatures and provides uniform density of solar energy within the thermal cycle engine receiver. The solar receiver is moved in response to a sun tracking sensor using a vertical and a horizontal drive motor. The thermal cycle engine and the electric generator, representing the majority of mass, are centered on the vertical support and are low to the ground. | 11-05-2009 |
| 20090277493 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE, PV CONCENTRATOR MODULE FORMED THEREFROM AND PRODUCTION PROCESS THEREFOR - The invention relates to a photovoltaic device ( | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090277494 | SOLAR CONCENTRATORS - Light collectors for use in building-integrated solar concentrators comprise waveguiding components incorporating spaced-apart light collecting elements arranged to collect light from a plurality of lenses in a lens array and deliver light to solar cells for photovoltaic conversion, where several lenses are coupled to each individual solar cell. The light collecting elements may comprise shaped ends of bulk waveguides to deliver incident solar radiation directly to the solar cells, or luminescent or amplifying material that converts the incident radiation to a secondary light signal that is delivered to the cells. The lenses may be pivotally mounted in a variety of ways to improve solar tracking by avoiding mechanical clashes between lenses and optimising the amount of incident light that is harvested. Filters containing heavy water may be positioned in front of the solar cells to absorb long wavelength light unconvertible by the cells, heat energy being then extractable from the heavy water. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090277495 | CONCENTRATED PV SOLAR POWER STACK SYSTEM - The concentrated PV solar power stack system includes a solar concentration assembly, HC sunlight transmission light pipe and a LEC stack assembly holding a plurality of light-to-electricity conversion (LEC) cells inside a compact weatherproofed housing enclosure. Each single LEC cell includes one LD panel having one light-emitting side and one PV solar panel adjoining the said LD panel; alternatively, a double-sided LD panel capable of emitting solar radiation evenly on both sides and two adjoining PV panels on each of the outer side of the said LD panel form a double LEC cell. A spectral & thermal conditioning system of the HC solar radiation beam represented by a combination of spectral cooling and heat sink devices reduces the thermal load in the LEC stack assembly and also improves the its light-to-electricity conversion rate. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090277496 | Solar Energy Collection Devices - Devices and methods for collecting solar energy using photovoltaic material are disclosed. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090277497 | Panel-shaped semiconductor module - A solar battery module as a panel-shaped semiconductor module comprises multiple spherical or nearly spherical, granular electric power generation semiconductor elements arranged in multiple rows and columns, a conductive connection mechanism electrically connecting in parallel multiple semiconductor elements in each row and connecting in series multiple semiconductor elements in each column, and a conductive inner metal case housing the multiple semiconductor elements and constituting the conductive connection mechanism, wherein each row of semiconductor elements is housed in each reflecting surface-forming groove of the inner metal case, the positive electrodes of the semiconductor electrodes are connected to the bottom plate and the negative electrodes are connected to finger leads, the bottom plate of each reflecting surface-forming grove has a cutoff slit, and the top is covered with a transparent cover member. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090277498 | PHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATOR WITH A SPHERICAL IMAGING LENS FOR USE WITH A PARABOLOIDAL SOLAR REFLECTOR - The invention is a generator for photovoltaic conversion of concentrated sunlight into electricity. A generator according to the invention incorporates a plurality of photovoltaic cells and is intended for operation near the focus of a large paraboloidal reflector pointed at the sun. Within the generator, the entering concentrated light is relayed by secondary optics to the cells arranged in a compact, concave array. The light is delivered to the cells at high concentration, consistent with high photovoltaic conversion efficiency and low cell cost per unit power output. Light enters the generator, preferably first through a sealing window, and passes through a field lens, preferably in the form of a full sphere or ball lens centered on the paraboloid focus. This lens forms a concentric, concave and wide-angle image of the primary reflector, where the intensity of the concentrated light is stabilized against changes in the position of concentrated light entering the generator. Receiving the stabilized light are flat photovoltaic cells made in different shapes and sizes and configured in a concave array corresponding to the concave image of a given primary reflector. Photovoltaic cells in a generator are also sized and interconnected so as to provide a single electrical output that remains high and stable, despite aberrations in the light delivered to the generator caused by, for example, mispointing or bending of the primary reflector. In some embodiments, the cells are set back from the image formed by the ball lens, and part of the light is reflected onto each cell small secondary reflectors in the form of mirrors set around its perimeter. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090283133 | SOLAR CONCENTRATING MIRROR - An article that is suitable for use as a solar concentrating mirror for enhancing the use of solar collection devices, such as solar cells. The article includes a multilayer optical film and a compliant UV protective layer. The article addresses degradation issues in solar concentration devices, provides specific bandwidths of electromagnetic energy to the solar cell while eliminating or reducing undesirable bandwidths of electromagnetic energy that may degrade or adversely affect the solar cell, and renders a compliant sheet of material that may be readily formed into a multitude of shapes or constructions for end use applications. | 11-19-2009 |
| 20090283134 | Concentrating photovoltaic solar panel having one or more concentrator modules or module groups that articulate in place - The present invention relates to photovoltaic power systems, photovoltaic concentrator modules, and related methods. | 11-19-2009 |
| 20090283135 | APPARATUS COMPRISING LOW VOLTAGE POWER SOURCE - An apparatus is disclosed for powering an electric load with a low-voltage power supply. The apparatus permits the use of low-voltage power cells that are connected predominantly in parallel. The parallel arrangement of the power cells offers significant practical advantages. | 11-19-2009 |
| 20090293934 | Photoelectric Conversion Device - A photoelectric conversion device in which a plurality of crystal semiconductor particles | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090293935 | SOLAR COLLECTOR CAPABLE OF RECEIVING LIGHT RAYS WITH DIFFERENT INCIDENT ANGLES - A solar collector includes a base having an internal chamber therein, a plurality of openings, and low reflection materials at an inner periphery thereof, a lens unit for enabling the sun's rays to penetrate into the internal chamber through the openings, an optical transfer unit disposed in the internal chamber to receive the sun's rays and transform that into electric energy, and at least one heat transfer member mounted to the base to transfer heat energy transformed by the sun's rays that is received by the low reflection materials. Thus, the solar collector of the present invention is capable of receiving the sun's rays with different incident angles to transform the sun's rays into the electric energy and the heat energy. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090293936 | TANDEM THIN-FILM SILICON SOLAR CELL AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A tandem thin-film silicon solar cell comprises a transparent substrate, a first unit cell positioned on the transparent substrate, the first unit cell comprising a p-type window layer, an i-type absorber layer and an n-type layer, an intermediate reflection layer positioned on the first unit cell, the intermediate reflection layer including a hydrogenated n-type microcrystalline silicon oxide of which the oxygen concentration is profiled to be gradually increased and a second unit cell positioned on the intermediate reflection layer, the second unit cell comprising a p-type window layer, an i-type absorber layer and an n-type layer. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090293937 | DEVICE FOR THE INDIRECT FREQUENCY-SELECTIVE ILLUMINATION OF SOLAR CELLS - Apparatus, satellite, and method for illumination of at least one solar cell. Apparatus includes at least one solar cell and at least one optical device structured and arranged for an indirect frequency-selective illumination of the at least one solar cell. The at least one optical device reflects spectral components relevant for energy conversion onto the solar cells and guides the spectral components not relevant for energy conversion away from the solar cells. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090301545 | Solar Concentrator Backpan - The present invention is a contoured backpan for a solar concentrator array. The backpan has depressions integrally formed in its bottom surface for seating solar concentrator modules. The depressions, in combination connecting toughs, provide a structure which is able to support an array of solar concentrators. Optional stiffening members may be attached to fee backpan to provide additional structural rigidity, as well as to support a front panel for the array. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090301546 | Optical shutter for improved Photovoltaic array thermal performance - A photovoltaic array with improved thermal performance includes a photovoltaic array, an electro-optic shutter disposed on the photovoltaic array, and a control system connected to at least the electro-optic shutter. The control system, based upon input from a sensor, switches the electro-optic shutter between transmissive and reflective conditions so as to control exposure of light to the photovoltaic array. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090301547 | SOLAR GENERATORS COMPRISING FLOATING HOLLOW ELEMENTS - The present invention relates to a solar power generator having special solar radiation concentrators configured as hollow bodies, and to such concentrators themselves. The invention relates in particular to a solar power generator having modules, arranged on a water layer, that contain a radiation converter, such that a plurality of modules is respectively combined into floating hollow bodies that comprise a wall that is subdivided into light-transmitting and non-light-transmitting regions. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090308430 | Solar Cell Interconnection Process - A solar cell interconnection process for forming a solar cell sub-module for a photovoltaic device, the process including the steps of mounting a plurality of elongate solar cells ( | 12-17-2009 |
| 20090308431 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE; PHOTOVOLTAIC UNIT FOR USE THEREIN AND MANUFACTURING METHOD FOR THIS - The invention relates to a concentrator photovoltaic device ( | 12-17-2009 |
| 20090308432 | REFLECTIVE LIGHT CONCENTRATOR - A system for generating electricity is disclosed. The system for generating electricity includes a reflector component including two decentered reflective members disposed in a symmetric relationship relative to an optical axis, wherein each of the two decentered reflective members is a segment of a cylinder, and a photovoltaic cell disposed coincident with the optical axis. A system including a plurality of electricity generating systems is also disclosed. | 12-17-2009 |
| 20090308433 | Method and apparatus for cooling of solar power cells - A solar energy apparatus, comprising in combination, a primary reflector for reflecting and focusing the sunlight and a secondary reflector to reflect the focused sunlight, a fiber optics cable located to conduct the light from the secondary reflector toward an optoelectric chip located in heat transfer relation to a heat sink. | 12-17-2009 |
| 20090314325 | SOLAR CONCENTRATOR SYSTEM - A solar energy concentrator system includes a supporting structure and a plurality of solar modules coupled to the supporting structure. Each module of the plurality of solar modules includes a plurality of Fresnel reflectors. The plurality of reflectors is arranged to focus solar radiation linearly onto a photovoltaic cell providing two axis concentration. The supporting structure is rotatably connected to a plurality of support members and aligned to allow the supporting structure to rotate about a polar axis. A plurality of optical trusses is connected to the plurality of solar modules and rotatably connected to the supporting structure to allow the plurality of solar modules to be rotated about a declination axis to track a motion of the sun through seasons of the year. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090314326 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - Embodiments relate to an apparatus for generating electricity from solar energy, said apparatus having a base substrate; one or more photovoltaic strips arranged over said base substrate, wherein spaces are formed in between adjacent photovoltaic strips; a plurality of optical vees for concentrating solar energy over said photovoltaic strips, said optical vees being placed in said spaces between said photovoltaic strips, said optical vees comprising a reflective layer or surface, such that rays incident on said reflective layer or surface are reflected towards said photovoltaic strips; and a transparent member positioned over said optical vees, wherein said base substrate, said photovoltaic strips, said optical vees and said transparent member form said apparatus in an integrated manner. Other embodiments include systems for generating electricity using the photovoltaic module. Yet other embodiments relate to methods of manufacturing the photovoltaic module and systems for generating electricity using the photovoltaic module. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090314327 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - Embodiments include an apparatus for generating electricity from solar energy, said apparatus comprising a base substrate for; a plurality of connectors attached to said base substrate, wherein connecting spaces are formed between adjacent said connectors; one or more photovoltaic strips arranged in said connecting spaces over said base substrate; a plurality of optical vees for concentrating solar energy over said photovoltaic strips, said optical vees being connected to said base substrate through said connectors, said optical vees comprising a reflective layer or surface, such that rays incident on said reflective layer or surface are reflected towards said photovoltaic strips; and a transparent member positioned over said optical vees, wherein said base substrate, said connectors, said photovoltaic strips, said optical vees and said transparent member form said apparatus in an integrated manner. Other embodiments include systems for generating electricity using the photovoltaic module. Yet other embodiments relate to methods of manufacturing the photovoltaic module and systems for generating electricity using the photovoltaic module. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090314328 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - Embodiments include a photovoltaic module for generating electricity from solar energy, said photovoltaic module having a base substrate; one or more photovoltaic strips arranged over said base substrate, wherein spaces are formed in between adjacent photovoltaic strips; a plurality of optical vees located in the spaces between said photovoltaic strips, such that one or more cavities are formed between said optical vees; and a polymeric material in a fluid state is introduced over the photovoltaic strips and the optical vees, such that the polymeric material fills the cavities between the optical vees and forms a plurality of molded concentrating elements for concentrating solar energy over the photovoltaic strips. Other embodiments include systems for generating electricity using the photovoltaic module. Yet other embodiments relate to methods of manufacturing the photovoltaic module and systems for generating electricity using the photovoltaic module. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090314329 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - Embodiments relate to a photovoltaic module for generating electricity from solar energy, said photovoltaic module comprising a base substrate; one or more photovoltaic strips arranged over said base substrate, wherein spaces are formed in between adjacent photovoltaic strips; a plurality of optical vees placed in the spaces between said photovoltaic strips, such that one or more cavities are formed between said optical vees; and a plurality of pre-molded concentrating elements are placed on the photovoltaic strips, and re-molded over the photovoltaic strips to form re-molded concentrating elements, wherein said concentrating elements take the shape of said cavities. Other embodiments include systems for generating electricity using the photovoltaic module. Yet other embodiments relate to methods of manufacturing the photovoltaic module and systems for generating electricity using the photovoltaic module | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090314330 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - Methods and systems for fabricating a photovoltaic module are provided. One or more stiffeners are integrated with a base substrate for stiffening the base substrate. One or more photovoltaic strips are arranged over the base substrate, such that spaces are formed between adjacent photovoltaic strips. The photovoltaic strips are connected through one or more conductors in a predefined manner. A plurality of optical vees are placed in the spaces between the photovoltaic strips for concentrating solar energy over the photovoltaic strips. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090314331 | Solar beads - This invention relates to solar beads composed of plural solar concentrating units formed granular so as to augment surface area usable for absorbing solar energy. As the solar concentrating units are respectively formed as granules, they are sufficiently flexible after being linked together by conducting lines, not only having a low rate of spoiling but convenient for being partially replaced owing to damage or alteration of module specification. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090314332 | HIGH EFFICIENCY SOLAR CELL - This invention relates to a high efficiency solar cell with a novel architecture. In one embodiment, the solar cell is comprised of a high energy gap cell stack and a dichroic mirror. The high energy gap cell stack is exposed to solar light before there is any splitting of the solar light into spectral components. Each cell in the high energy gap cell stack absorbs the light with photons of energy greater than or equal to its energy gap, i.e., the blue-green to ultraviolet portion of the solar light. Each cell in the high energy gap cell stack is transparent to and transmits light with photons of energy less than its energy gap. Spectral splitting is then performed by means of the dichroic mirror on the remaining light, i.e., the light transmitted by the high energy gap cell stack. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090320899 | TEXTURED PLATE COMPRISING ASYMMETRICAL PATTERNS - A plate of transparent material including, on its surface, a texture including a plurality of a feature in relief, whether in a form of depressions or projections. The feature includes a first face and a second face that are not mutually parallel, lines at a base of the faces being parallel. The first face forms, with the general plane of the plate, a larger angle than the angle formed by the second face with the general plane of the plate, the angles being angles inside the material if the feature is a projection, or angles on the outside of the material if the feature is a depression. The plate improves light transmission toward a photovoltaic cell, in particular when the plate is in a vertical position, for example on the surface of a noise barrier. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090320900 | PLANAR SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - A solar concentrator includes a plurality of separate panels positioned between opposed support rods. Tension elements extend between the support rods and mount the plurality of panels. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090320901 | CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL SYSTEM WITH LIGHT GUIDE - A concentration photovoltaic cell system with light guide includes a concentrator for focusing sunlight; a light guide located at where the sunlight is focused by the concentrator, so that the focused light is fully coupled to an input end of the light guide and propagates to an output end of the light guide; and a solar energy converter arranged at the output end of the light guide for receiving and converting the light projected from the light guide into electric energy. With the above arrangements, the solar converter may be located at a place not exposed to sunlight to avoid lowered energy conversion efficiency caused by temperature rising at photovoltaic cell chips thereof, and the use of the light guide enables increased GCR and light concentrating efficiency to enable reduced number of expensive photovoltaic cells. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090320902 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTING DEVICE - A solar energy collecting device includes a photovoltaic module, a light reflecting unit, and a support unit. The photovoltaic module is configured to convert solar energy to electrical energy, and includes a front portion and a rear portion opposite to the front portion. The light reflecting unit is positioned below the photovoltaic module and has a concave curved surface opposite to the rear portion. The support unit supports the photovoltaic module. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090320903 | HIGH EFFICIENCY SOLAR CELL WITH A SILICON SCAVENGER CELL - This invention relates to an improved high efficiency solar cell with a “HEGC stack-dichroic mirror-MEGC stack” architecture or a “HEGC stack-dichroic mirror-MEGC stack-LEGC stack” architecture. The improvement comprises the addition of a silicon cell to act as a scavenger cell to absorb light that would otherwise not be absorbed and to convert that energy to electricity. The silicon cell is positioned adjacent to the cell with the smallest energy gap of the cells in the MEGC stack. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20100000592 | Self-propelled Solar Tracking Apparatus with Multi-layer Solar Panel - A self-propelled solar tracking apparatus includes a multi-layer solar panel, a body, a lifting device and a moving device. The multi-layer solar panel carries the solar cell modules and includes a first layer, a second layer and a third layer. The first layer includes a first track assembly and a second track assembly. The first track assembly locates at one side of the first layer, and the second track assembly locates at the opposite side of the first layer. The second layer locates above the first layer and slidiably connects to the first layer. The third layer locates above the second layer and slidably connects to the first layer. The body has a hollow space to retrieve the multi-layer solar panel. The lifting device connects the multi-layer solar panel with the body. The moving device demountably connects the bottom of the body. | 01-07-2010 |
| 20100000593 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH CONCENTRATION AND SPECTRAL SPLITTING OF COLLECTED LIGHT BEAM - A photovoltaic device may include a housing having a transparent pupil receiving a collimated beam of radiation, and photovoltaic cell arrays being positioned on respective inner surfaces of the housing, each photovoltaic cell array sensing a respective spectral range of the radiation different from the other photovoltaic cell arrays. The photovoltaic device may further include dichroic filters being positioned along an optical axis of the transparent pupil and splitting the collimated beam into a corresponding divided beams of different spectrums, and mirrors corresponding to the divided beams. Each mirror may have reflecting surfaces, receive a respective divided beam, subdivide the received divided beam into reflected beams from the reflecting surfaces, and illuminate an active area of a photovoltaic cell of the respective array. | 01-07-2010 |
| 20100000594 | SOLAR CONCENTRATORS WITH TEMPERATURE REGULATION - Systems and methods that regulate (e.g., in real time) heat dissipation from solar concentrators. A heat regulating assembly removes heat from the PV cells and other hot regions, to maintain the temperature gradient within predetermined levels. A control component can regulate (e.g., automatically) operation of valves (which the cooling medium flows through) based on sensor data (e.g., measurement of temperature, pressure, flow rate, velocity of the cooling medium, and the like throughout the system.) | 01-07-2010 |
| 20100000595 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module includes: solar cells; wiring members electrically connecting the solar cells to each other; and a reflecting plate disposed between a light receiving surface side protection member and the solar cells. Each of the wiring members has a connecting portion connected to a light receiving surface of each of the solar cells. The reflecting plate is disposed over connecting portions | 01-07-2010 |
| 20100000596 | Solar Power Generation Assembly and Method for Providing Same - The present invention relates to a solar power generation assembly and method for providing same involving an array of solar generating modules on a dual-incline structure, which can achieve high energy yields over a wide range of azimuths/orientations. The assembly consists of canopy wings providing for the dual-incline structure, where, depending on specifications, the canopy wings can differ in length, width, angle of inclination, structural material and solar module or other material mounted on the surface. The canopy wings may be pivoted or hinged to enhance the energy generation and/or other functional benefits of the assembly or system, including display elements, advertising, rainwater/precipitation and snow drainage and collection and energy transmission. The assembly or system is modular and may be assembled in a long continuous configuration in which the inclination, width and tilt of the canopy wings may vary of a long distance to maintain substantially consistent energy yields as the assembly or system orientation changes. | 01-07-2010 |
| 20100006139 | LIGHT BEAM PATTERN AND PHOTOVOLTAIC ELEMENTS LAYOUT - System(s) and method(s) are provided for assembling and utilizing parabolic reflectors in a solar concentrator. Parabolic reflectors assembly starts with a low-cost, flat reflective material that is bent into a parabolic or through shape via a set of support ribs that are affixed in a support beam. The parabolic reflectors are mounted on a support frame in various panels or arrays to form a parabolic solar concentrator. Each parabolic reflector focuses light in a line segment pattern. Light beam pattern focused onto a receiver via the parabolic solar concentrator can be optimized. The receiver is attached to the support frame, opposite the parabolic reflector arrays, and includes a photovoltaic (PV) module and a heat harvesting element that enable dual-mode energy conversion operation. To increase performance of the parabolic solar concentrator, the PV module can be configured to advantageously exploit a light beam pattern optimization regardless irregularities in the pattern. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100006140 | Solar Energy System - A solar covering is disclosed that comprises a lens array configured to distribute light incident on the covering to solar receptors beneath the covering. The lens array may have a support structure covered by a continuous plastic sheet with Fresnel lens ribs or circular Fresnel elements or the lens array may comprise a number of Fresnel tiles. Each lens may concentrate light onto a solar receptor, such as a photovoltaic chip. The solar covering may go over new or existing photovoltaic panels such as on a solar cabana. A photovoltaic element may be movable to maintain the element in a concentration zone of a Fresnel lens and/or to control the power output of the photovoltaic element, such as in response to a signal from a power utility. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100012169 | Energy Recovery of Secondary Obscuration - A solar energy system is provided to capture an increased amount of solar energy in an area. Methods and devices to collect obscured solar radiation and covert it into usable electrical energy are described. The devices include a major concentrated solar energy system combined with a minor solar energy system. In one embodiment, the minor solar energy system includes a primary mirror, secondary mirror and a second photocell. Primary and secondary mirrors of a minor solar energy system are defined by their location, at least a portion of which may be substantially within the concave region of the secondary mirror of a major solar energy system. The electrical connection from the minor solar energy system to the major solar energy system is described. Methods for making minor solar energy system are provided. | 01-21-2010 |
| 20100012170 | High Efficiency Solar Cell - The present invention is a high-efficiency solar cell having a top cell [ | 01-21-2010 |
| 20100012171 | HIGH EFFICIENCY CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE WITH REFLECTIVE OPTICS - A Concentrating Photovoltaics (CPV) module includes light weight housing, a number of Cassegrain type reflective solar concentrators, a number of multi-junction solar cells and a novel heat spreading system. The primary and secondary reflectors focus the sun over 500 times to maximize the amount of photons collected by the solar cells and converted to electricity. A newly designed soft board material provides coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) matched carrier for the solar cells and an efficient electrical connectivity method. The carrier board is attached to a specially formulated heat spreader that is specially formulated to conduct heat longitudinally away from the solar cells. The combination of the above creates CPV modules with the highest efficiency and lowest cost per Watt. | 01-21-2010 |
| 20100018566 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR LEVITATING A PORTABLE SOLAR ARRAY - An apparatus and method are disclosed for levitating photovoltaic arrays, or solar energy panels, above ground level using balloons affixed to the solar energy panels. The apparatus includes batteries and other modules necessary to serve a variety of needs and may optionally be stowed and/or portable. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100018567 | Solar power generating system employing a solar battery - A solar power generating system employing a solar battery includes a two-dimensional reflector comprising a holder and a sheet-like first solar battery held on the holder. The sheet forms a partially absorptive and partially reflective surface of the reflector. The two-dimensional reflector has a focal line and a mirror axis plane extending along the direction of its length. The system further includes a sun-tracking unit to detect the direction of the sun and to control the two-dimensional reflector to point the mirror axis plane toward the sun. The system further includes a thermally conductive tube extending along the focal line of the two-dimensional reflector, a second solar battery held on an outer surface of the tube with its photo-sensitive surface facing outward, and a cooling and heat supplying unit for circulating fluid through the tube and for supplying obtained heat externally. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100018568 | Stacked solar cell device - This stacked solar battery device includes a plurality of solar battery units | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100018569 | Solar Energy Harvesting Apparatus - There is provided solar energy harvesting apparatus ( | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100018570 | Concentrating photovoltaic solar panel - The present invention relates to photovoltaic power systems., photovoltaic concentrator modules, and related methods. In particular, the present invention features concentrator modules having interior points of attachment for an articulating mechanism and/or an articulating mechanism that has a unique arrangement of chassis members so as to isolate bending, etc. from being transferred among the chassis members. The present invention also features adjustable solar panel mounting features and/or mounting features with two or more degrees of freedom. The present invention also features a mechanical fastener for secondary optics in a concentrator module. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100024866 | SOLAR ENERGY CONCENTRATOR - A solar energy concentrator system comprises an optically transparent component, a bifacial solar cell situated within the optically transparent component and configured to intercept sunlight, a reflective component configured to reflect un-intercepted sunlight towards the bifacial solar cell, wherein the bifacial cell is configured to be positioned with a first surface facing sunlight and a second surface facing the reflective component. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100024867 | GEODESIC DOME PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL POWER SYSTEM - A geodesic dome photovoltaic cell power system is presented which provides a number of major advantages over more conventional systems. The system recovers and recycles energy from the sunlight, standard AC lighting, and batteries as well. The system provides electrical service whether or not sunlight is available. The system provides a way of returning some used energy back into the system for reuse. The system also provides a way of sending light to rooms below the geodesic dome shape of the system. The system gathers significantly more sunlight than conventional solar flat layouts. The system includes a plurality of trigonal light guides interconnected together that have a plurality of tapered mirrored walls and has an internal solar cell; and a battery. The system can also include optional components such as a plurality of hexagonal light guides, a transformer, a base, an antireflection layer, a plurality of external solar cells, and a plurality of external mirrors. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100024868 | SOLAR RADIATION COLLECTOR - A solar radiation collector comprising a concentrator and a photovoltaic cell, the concentrator comprising at least a prismatic primary portion, the primary portion comprising primary entrance aperture having a perimeter, an outer surface adapted for receiving radiation, and a inner surface; a primary receiver plane; sidewalls, meeting the primary entrance aperture along at least a portion of the perimeter; and a reflective bottom surface. The primary portion is adapted to utilize total internal reflection at least from the inner surface of the primary entrance aperture to concentrate radiation entering through the primary entrance aperture toward the primary receiver plane. The primary entrance aperture comprises a reference area defined as the area thereof between two lines, each of the lines being the intersection between the primary entrance aperture and an imaginary plane which is perpendicular to both the primary entrance aperture and an extreme end of the primary receiver plane; the total area of the primary entrance aperture substantially exceeding that of the reference area. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20100032003 | SOLAR CELL INCLUDING COOLING CHANNELS AND METHOD FOR FABRICATION - The solar cell comprises a front side comprising a first doped layer, a backside comprising formations defining channels therebetween, the backside further comprising a second doped layer situated on at least some of the surfaces of the channels facing the front side, and an electrically conductive layer situated on at least some surfaces of the channels facing the front side. The first and second doped layers comprise opposite polarity types. | 02-11-2010 |
| 20100032004 | Solar systems that include one or more shade-tolerant wiring schemes - The present invention provides shade tolerant wiring solutions for solar systems. Elements are grouped and wired in parallel within a group such that the total current of a group is substantially the same among multiple groups. Such a wiring scheme can be applied to solar targets (e.g., solar cells), solar , and solar modules. | 02-11-2010 |
| 20100032005 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SOLAR ENERGY CAPTURE - A system and a method for capturing solar energy are disclosed herein. In at least one embodiment, the method includes receiving light at a plurality of lenses, communicating the light from respective ones of the plurality of lenses toward respective ones of a plurality of dichroic mirrors, and transmitting respective first portions of the light through the respective ones of the dichroic mirrors toward respective first photovoltaic cells. The method also includes reflecting respective second portions of the light off of the respective ones of the dichroic mirrors toward respective adjacent ones of the dichroic mirrors, where the first portions are within a first wavelength range and the second portions are within a second wavelength range, and reflecting the respective second portions of the light off of the respective adjacent ones of the dichroic mirrors toward respective second photovoltaic cells. | 02-11-2010 |
| 20100037933 | SOLAR CELL PANELS AND METHOD OF FABRICATING SAME - A solar cell panel and method of forming a solar cell panel. The method includes a: forming an electrically conductive bus bar on a top surface of a bottom cover plate; forming an electrically conductive contact frame proximate to a bottom surface of a top cover plate, the top cover plate transparent to visible light; and placing an array of rows and columns of solar cell chips between the bottom cover plate and the top cover plate, each solar cell chip of the array of solar cell chips comprising an anode adjacent to a top surface and a cathode adjacent to a bottom surface of the solar cell chip, the bus bar electrically contacting each anode of each solar cell chip of the array of solar cell chips and the contact frame contacting each anode of each solar cell chip of the array of solar cell chips. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100037934 | SOLAR ENERGY SYSYEM - A solar energy system includes a reflecting unit, a heat absorber and a first solar panel. The reflecting unit having a photovoltaic cell with a first energy band gap and a reflecting surface reflects or focuses sunlight. The reflecting unit converts the sunlight with a wavelength shorter than or equal to x nm into electric energy according to the first energy band gap, and reflects or focuses the sunlight with a wavelength longer than x nm onto the heat absorber and the first solar panel. The heat absorber converts the sunlight that has a wavelength longer than or equal to y nm and is reflected by the reflecting unit into thermal energy. The first solar panel having a photovoltaic cell with a second energy band gap converts the sunlight penetrating the heat absorber and having a wavelength shorter than or equal to z nm into electric energy. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100037935 | Concentrated Photovoltaic System Modules Using III-V Semiconductor Solar Cells - A solar cell module to convert light to electricity. The module may include a housing with a first side and an opposing spaced-apart second side. A plurality of lenses may be positioned on the first side of the housing, and a plurality of solar cell receivers may be positioned on the second side of the housing. Each of the plurality of solar cell receivers may include a III-V compound semiconductor multifunction solar cell. Each may also include a bypass diode coupled with the solar cell. At least one optical element may be positioned above the solar cell to guide the light from one of the lenses onto the solar cell. Each of said solar cell receivers may be disposed in an optical path of one of the lenses. The lens and the at least one optical element may concentrate the light onto the respective solar cell by a factor of 1000 or more to generate in excess of 25 watts of peak power. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100043864 | Optical Support Apparatus - The present invention provides an apparatus for mounting an optical element on the underside of a substrate in a solar energy system, as a replacement for, or supplemental support to, an adhesive. The apparatus includes one or more support arms which uphold the optical element. The support arms may be secured in place by being coupled to various components of the solar energy system, such as a front panel, an enclosure, or a primary mirror. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100043865 | System and Method of Utilizing Energetic Radiation in an Enclosed Space - Systems and methods of utilizing energetic radiation in an enclosed space are disclosed. For example, an embodiment of a system of utilizing energetic radiation in an enclosed space includes: one or more photovoltaic cells, positioned at one or more predetermined positions in the enclosed space, adapted to convert radiation in the enclosed space into electric power; and an electric circuit to utilize the electric power to perform a function associated with the enclosed space. Other embodiments are described and claimed. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100043866 | SOLAR TRACKER WITH TWO AXES ON A ROLLING PLATFORM, WITH TWO BOARDS FOR SOLAR PANELS - The invention relates to a solar tracker for photovoltaic panels, having a system for orienting same along two perpendicular axes and including a supporting platform provided with motorised wheels and at least two solar panel holders. The solar tracker platform comprises straight lattice griders having suitable dimensions for conventional transport, a central shaft which receives the horizontal stresses and horizontal bracing elements which prevent horizontal deformations and render the assembly vertically flexible. The solar panel holders are coupled to the platform such that they can rotate about a horizontal axis and said holders include a double guide system, provided on the frame and the purlins, in order to simplfy mounting operations. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100051086 | REDUNDANT ARRAY OF SINGLE AXIS TRACKING SOLAR PANELS - An array of independent single-axis tracking solar panel assemblies is provided which, compared to prior-art “ganged” tracking assemblies, can reduce production, installation, and operation costs of solar panel arrays, reduce power loss and down-time in the event of single-point failure, and increase annual power production. Each independent single-axis tracking solar panel assembly has one or more solar panels mounted on a rotatable support structure and its own motor, its own motor controller, and its own reduction gear box. Each assembly is supported at two points, one in the north and one in the south, so that the one or more solar panels in an assembly are rotated from east to west to track the angle of the sun. Each independent assembly may be wired directly to a power inverter and all may be wired in parallel. Each is protected with a series diode so that if one shorts, it cannot shunt power from another. If one fails, the power from each of the others continues to the power inverter, unaffected. Each assembly may be oriented so that it has a fixed tilt in the range of 20-40 degrees. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100051087 | FRAMELESS THIN-FILM SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS AND METHOD - A solar panel utilizes at least one and, in one embodiment, three protective layers to eliminate the need for a metal frame. The protective layers may include one inorganic layer and two polymer layers, which are cured onto an underside of the panel. In one embodiment, the protective layers are cured over lateral edges of certain of the layers of the solar panel, including for example the conductor layers, semiconductor junction, and reflector layer. The protective layers may extend to cover an exposed edge along an underside of panel's superstrate. In one embodiment, the lateral edge of the superstrate is contoured to resist damage from rough handling and/or exposure to the elements. A support platform may be provided, and the solar panel secured thereon by way of interposing an adhesive between an underside of the panel and the support platform. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100051088 | Photovoltaic solar concentrating power system - The invention proposes a solar photovoltaic system, which includes concentrators of solar radiation of refractive type and an array of photovoltaic cells installed on a heat sink plate operating on the principle of a flat heat pipe. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100051089 | LIGHT COLLECTION DEVICE WITH PRISMATIC LIGHT TURNING FEATURES - A light collection device includes a light guide body and a plurality of spaced-apart slits. The slits are formed by undercuts in the light guide body. Sides of the slits form facets that redirect light impinging on the facets. In some embodiments, the light collection body is attached to a photovoltaic cell. Light impinging on the light collection body is redirected towards the photovoltaic cell by the slits. The photovoltaic cells convert the light into electrical energy. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100051090 | FOUR TERMINAL MULTI-JUNCTION THIN FILM PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE AND METHOD - A multi-junction photovoltaic cell device. The device includes a lower cell and an upper cell, which is operably coupled to the lower cell. In a specific embodiment, the lower cell includes a lower glass substrate material, e.g., transparent glass. The lower cell also includes a lower electrode layer made of a reflective material overlying the glass material. The lower cell includes a lower absorber layer overlying the lower electrode layer. In a specific embodiment, the absorber layer is made of a semiconductor material having a band gap energy in a range of Eg=0.7 to 1 eV, but can be others. In a specific embodiment, the lower cell includes a lower window layer overlying the lower absorber layer and a lower transparent conductive oxide layer overlying the lower window layer. The upper cell includes a p+ type transparent conductor layer overlying the lower transparent conductive oxide layer. In a preferred embodiment, the p+ type transparent conductor layer is characterized by traversing electromagnetic radiation in at least a wavelength range from about 700 to about 630 nanometers and filtering electromagnetic radiation in a wavelength range from about 490 to about 450 nanometers. In a specific embodiment, the upper cell has an upper p type absorber layer overlying the p+ type transparent conductor layer. In a preferred embodiment, the p type conductor layer made of a semiconductor material has a band gap energy in a range of Eg=1.6 to 1.9 eV, but can be others. The upper cell also has an upper n type window layer overlying the upper p type absorber layer, an upper transparent conductive oxide layer overlying the upper n type window layer, and an upper glass material overlying the upper transparent conductive oxide layer. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100059103 | THIN-FILM TYPE SOLAR CELL MODULE HAVING A REFLECTIVE MEDIA LAYER AND FABRICATION METHOD THEREOF - A thin-film type solar cell module having a reflective media layer capable of optionally transmitting light through intervals formed on the reflective media layer and a method of fabricating the same are described. | 03-11-2010 |
| 20100065103 | Flux Tailored Converter of Radiatio - The present invention discloses a system for converting incident radiation energy into electric power. A cavity, whose wall is clad with a mixture of photon conversion devices and specularly reflective coatings, is irradiated by concentrated radiation energy. The shape of said cavity is tailored to the irradiation distribution, so that a generally uniform surface radiation flux is achieved for optimal conversion into electricity by a plurality of photon conversion devices; the balance being absorbed and removed as heat in a cooling fluid. Specular reflective coatings propagate scattered radiation further into said cavity for eventual conversion into electricity. An integrating unit combines and maximizes the output power from individual photon conversion devices into a single output feed. | 03-18-2010 |
| 20100071753 | Solar Cell Structure Including A Plurality Of Concentrator Elements With A Notch Design And Predetermined Radii and Method - A solar cell concentrator structure includes a first concentrator element having a first aperture region and a first exit region including a first back surface region and a first corner region. The structure also includes a second concentrator element integrally formed with the first concentrator element. The second concentrator element includes a second aperture region and a second exit region-including a second back surface region and a second corner region. Additionally, the structure includes a first radius of curvature of 0.25 mm and less characterizing the first corner structure and the second corner structure, a first coupling region between the first exit region and a first surface region of a first photovoltaic device. The structure further includes a second radius of curvature of 0.15 mm and less characterizing a region between the first concentrator element and the second concentrator element. | 03-25-2010 |
| 20100071754 | STRUCTURE OF SOLAR CELL PANEL AND MANUFACTURING METHOD OF ELECTRODE OF SOLAR CELL PANEL - A manufacturing method of electrode of solar cell panel of the present invention comprises steps of providing a semiconductor substrate with an antireflection layer/a dielectric layer and a first metal layer in sequence, forming a first metal layer on the antireflection layer, projecting a pattern on the first metal layer by a laser beam to form a metal silicide on the semiconductor substrate in accordance with the outline of the pattern, removing the first metal layer by a chosen solution, forming a first electrode connecting to the metal silicide and exposed to a surface of the antireflection layer; and forming a second electrode on a surface of the semiconductor substrate opposite to the antireflection layer. | 03-25-2010 |
| 20100078061 | Solid state heat pipe heat rejection system for space power systems - A heat rejection system includes a plurality of panel subassemblies and a solid state heat pipe flex joint. Each panel subassembly includes a fin, a solid state heat pipe manifold, a first solid state heat pipe tube operatively connected to the solid state heat pipe manifold and secured to the fin, a second solid state heat pipe tube operatively connected to the solid state heat pipe manifold adjacent to the first solid state heat pipe and secured to the fin. The solid state heat pipe flex joint operably connects the solid state heat pipe manifolds of two of the plurality of panel subassemblies in a hermetically sealed configuration, and is configured to permit repositioning of the two panel subassemblies relative to each other. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100078062 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR LIGHT COLLECTION AND LIGHT ENERGY CONVERTING APPARATUS - A light collection system including a light concentrating device and a reflective curving-surface device is provided. The light concentrating device receives at least a portion of an incident light and forwardly emits the portion of the incident light after concentrating and passing it through a first focal region, so as to obtain a first-stage output light. The reflective curving-surface device has an entrance aperture for receiving the first-stage output light. The reflective curving-surface device includes a reflective inner curving surface, and at least a portion of the reflective inner curving surface has a second focal region. The first focal region and the second focal region are confocal or approximately confocal within a range. As a result, at least a portion of the first-stage output light is confocally converted into a forwardly emitted second-stage output light. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100078063 | HIGH EFFICIENCY HYBRID SOLAR CELL - This invention relates to a high efficiency hybrid solar cell preferably comprised of a static concentrator, a dichroic mirror, a first cell stack comprising two cells, the first cell being a GaInP cell and the second cell being a GaAs cell and a second cell stack comprising three cells, the first cell being a Si cell, the second cell being a GaInAsP cell and the third cell being a GaInAs cell. The dichroic mirror provides a separation of the solar light into two spectral components, one component of light with photons of energy≧E | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100078064 | MONOLITHICALLY-INTEGRATED SOLAR MODULE - A solar module includes a substrate, a plurality of electrically interconnected solar cells, and an upper separation gap. The solar cells are provided above the substrate. At least one of the solar cells includes a reflective electrode, a silicon layer stack and a light transmissive electrode. The reflective electrode is provided above the substrate. The silicon layer stack includes an n-doped layer provided above the reflective electrode, an intrinsic layer provided above the n-doped layer and a p-doped layer provided above the intrinsic layer. The light transmissive electrode is provided above the silicon layer stack. The upper separation gap is provided between the cells. The upper separation gap electrically separates the light transmissive electrodes in the solar cells from one another such that the light transmissive electrode of one of the solar cells is electrically connected to the reflective electrode of another one of the solar cells. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100084004 | INTEGRATING SPHERE PHOTOVOLTAIC RECEIVER EMPLOYING MULTI-JUNCTION CELLS - A photovoltaic module for converting laser radiation from a laser emitting light at a wavelength to electrical power is provided. The module comprises: (a) a housing having a cavity of generally optimized closed shape inside the housing, the cavity having an internal surface area A | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100089434 | Efficient Air-Cooled Solar Photovoltaic Modules and Collectors for High Power Applications - A solar photovoltaic module is formed from a single linear, series-connected arrangement of solar cells on a linear mounting assembly or substrate that provides high heat dissipation from the photovoltaic module. Multiple photovoltaic modules are connected together to form a photovoltaic collector for high voltage applications with solar tracker mounting. High voltage photovoltaic collectors are interconnected to form a high power capacity photovoltaic power source for conversion to AC power. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100089435 | SOLAR MODULE SERIALLY CONNECTED IN THE FRONT - The present invention shows a solar cell element comprising a semiconductor substrate layer ( | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100089436 | MULTIPLEXING SOLAR LIGHT CHAMBER - Described is a light chamber for amplifying solar radiation for purposes of generating electricity using photovoltaic panels. The light chamber includes a housing; a photovoltaic panel disposed within the housing; a dome lens affixed to the upper end of the housing; a fresnel lens disposed between the dome lens and the photovoltaic panel; a reflector disposed around the inner surface of the housing; and another reflector disposed at or near the lower end of the housing. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100089437 | VEHICLE-BASED SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - A vehicle-based solar collector comprising a cylindrical array of concentrator cells, a heat sink coupled to the linear array of concentrator cells, and a plurality of modules running fore and aft in the car, wherein each of the plurality of modules has a parabolic trough mirror that reflects light onto the cylindrical array of concentrator cells. | 04-15-2010 |
| 20100095999 | ULTRA-HIGH EFFICIENCY MULTI-JUNCTION SOLAR CELLS USING POLYCHROMATIC DIFFRACTIVE CONCENTRATORS - A photovoltaic cell is provided. The photovoltaic cell includes a concentrator optic structure separating the solar spectrum of light into a plurality of spectral bands. The concentrator optic structure focuses these spectral bands into a plurality of concentric tightly focused ring-shaped spots and a central round spot. A multitude of circular sub-cells are each approximately positioned at a ring-shaped spot associated with a respective spectral band produced by the concentrator optic structure. Each of the sub-cells stores the energy produced at the respective spectral band | 04-22-2010 |
| 20100096000 | Artificial light power generation system - An artificial light power generation system that includes a housing, at least one artificial light source disposed within the housing, and at least one photovoltaic panel disposed within the housing in light receiving relation to the artificial light source. The photovoltaic panel includes a direct current electrical output to an inverter, which converts the direct current into alternating current and outputs this alternating current through an alternating current electrical output. | 04-22-2010 |
| 20100101630 | Terrestrial Solar Tracking Photovoltaic Array with Slew Speed Reducer - A terrestrial solar tracking photovoltaic array with a longitudinal support that may be constructed of discrete sections. The overall length of the array may be adjusted depending upon the necessary size of the array. A drive may be configured to rotate the longitudinal support about a first axis. The drive may include a slew speed reducer. Solar cell modules are positioned along the longitudinal support and may each include a rectangular case with a plurality of lenses that are positioned over corresponding receivers. Linkages may be connected to frames and are axially movable along the longitudinal support to rotate the solar cell modules within second planes that are each orthogonal to the first plane to further track the sun during the course of the day. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100101631 | CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM AND CONCENTRATION METHOD THEREOF - A concentration photovoltaic system ( | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100101632 | Terrestrial Solar Tracking Photovoltaic Array With Offset Solar Cell Modules - Terrestrial solar tracking photovoltaic arrays that may include a modular design that is sized and weighted to facilitate installation with a small amount of manpower. The array may further be adapted to be adjusted during or after installation to accommodate the necessary power requirements. The terrestrial solar tracking photovoltaic array may include a torque tube that may be constructed of discrete sections. A drive may be connected to the torque tube to rotate the torque tube. A number of solar cell modules may be connected to the torque tube. The modules may be positioned at offsetting angular orientations depending upon their distance away from the drive. This offset positioning compensates for twisting distortion of the torque tube caused by the drive rotating the torque tube. At one point of rotation, each of the solar cell modules may be substantially aligned in a common plane. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100108121 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR CELL MODULE - A concentrating solar cell module without sun-tracing system is provided, wherein a transparent sphere is used as a concentrator and hence there is no need for the concentrator to trace light source, such as the Sun. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100108122 | COMBINED DIODE, LEAD ASSEMBLY INCORPORATING AN EXPANSION JOINT - A combined diode, lead assembly incorporating two expansion joints. The combined diode, lead assembly incorporating two expansion joints includes a diode having a first diode terminal and a second diode terminal, a first conductor and a second conductor. The first conductor includes a first terminal that is electrically coupled to the diode at the first diode terminal and a second terminal that is configured as a first expansion joint, which is configured to electrically couple to a first interconnecting-conductor and is configured to reduce a stress applied to the diode by the first conductor. The second conductor includes a first terminal that is electrically coupled to the diode at the second diode terminal and a second terminal that is configured as a second expansion joint, which is configured to electrically couple to a second interconnecting-conductor and is configured to reduce a stress applied to the diode by the second conductor. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100108123 | INTERCONNECTING REFLECTOR RIBBON FOR SOLAR CELL MODULES - A solar cell module comprises a light receiving structure with a substantially transparent front cover and a plurality of active elements placed behind the said front cover. At least one interconnector is situated between adjacent active elements, the interconnectors having a reflective structure facing towards said front cover. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100108124 | SOLAR ENERGY CONCENTRATOR - A solar concentrator assembly comprises a stepped wave-guide assembly, a reflective mirror assembly, and an optical target providing unit. The stepped wave-guide assembly includes at least one surface, comprising a set of parallel but offset adjacent surfaces, and an opposing surface. The wave-guide assembly propagates light in a total internal reflection mode between the at least one surface and the opposing surface. The wave-guide assembly also includes transition surfaces between the adjacent parallel surfaces and the transition surfaces include edges perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the wave-guide assembly. The reflective mirror assembly includes a plurality of mirrors each being aligned to reflect the light to one of the transition surfaces between two of the parallel adjacent surfaces. The optical target providing unit converts solar energy from the light propagated in the wave-guide assembly to a different form of energy. | 05-06-2010 |
| 20100116318 | PIXELATED PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAY METHOD AND APPARATUS - The present invention comprises a method and apparatus to increase the efficiency of photovoltaic conversion of light into electrical power and to achieve operation at higher optical power and therefore higher electrical power. Preferred embodiments increase the efficiency of photovoltaic power conversion of any source of a beam of photons by spatially dividing the beams into a plurality of individual beamlets, each beamlet focusing on an active photovoltaic region. The preferred architecture of the apparatus of the invention comprises spatially separated photovoltaic cells to substantially match the pattern of the spatially separated plurality of beamlets. Preferred embodiments result in a significant reduction in ohmic losses and current shunting, thereby increasing photovoltaic conversion efficiencies. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100116319 | LIGHT COLLECTION AND CONCENTRATION SYSTEM - A light collection and concentration system includes a primary light concentrator, a light transport structure, and a light directing structure optically associated with the primary light concentrator. The system may include an optional secondary light concentrator. Each unit-system includes a plurality of the primary light concentrators and a respective plurality of the light directing structures, and only a single light transport structure. A photo-voltaic (PV) cell may advantageously be associated with each unit-system. Solar radiation is focused by the primary concentrators onto respective light directing structures incorporated in a low aspect ratio, sheet-type waveguide light transport structure. Each respective light directing structure intercepts the focused light and deflects it transversely to travel along the length of the light transport structure primarily via total internal reflection (TIR) towards an exit-end of the light transport structure, where it can be input to the PV cell. The optional secondary light concentrator may further concentrate the light out-coupled from the transport structure into the PV cell. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100116320 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THE UTILIZATION OF SOLAR ENERGY - The present invention concerns an apparatus ( | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100122721 | ARRAY TYPE CONCENTRATING SOLAR CELL SYSTEM - An array type concentrating solar cell system without sun-tracing system is provided, wherein a plurality of transparent spheres or sphere-like transparent articles is used as concentrating means and hence there is no need for the concentrating means to trace the light source, such as the Sun. The plurality of transparent spheres (or sphere-like transparent articles), as concentrating means, can provide sufficient electric power for user's applications. | 05-20-2010 |
| 20100122722 | PORTABLE, DURABLE, INTEGRATED SOLAR POWER GENERATION DEVICE - A solar power generation device including a base, a tracking system mounted to the base, a solar collector mounted to the tracking system configured to open as the solar power generation device transitions to an active state and to close as the solar power generation device transitions to an inactive state, a light sensing system dynamically mounted about the base and configured to adjust the tracking system based upon the position of a light producing element, and a plurality of focusing elements mounted to the base and positioned around the light sensing system such that any light reflected by the focusing elements is directed to the solar collector. The device may further include an electricity management and conditioning system contained in the base that includes a short term storage system, a long term storage system, a data acquisition system, and a data and electricity transmission interface. | 05-20-2010 |
| 20100126553 | INVERTER WITH INTEGRATED CONTROL AND REGULATION FOR A TRACKER - An inverter for converting the direct current provided by a solar generator to alternating current includes a control providing a control signal for a drive of the solar generator, for allowing tracking the solar generator after the sun, wherein the control is integrated in the inverter. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100126554 | STAGGERED LIGHT COLLECTORS FOR CONCENTRATOR SOLAR PANELS - A solar panel assembly with a first group of spaced-apart solar energy collector modules and a second group of spaced-apart solar energy collector modules. The first and second groups lie in respective parallel planes, which define an air gap therebetween, and are staggered with respect to each other. The staggering of the groups allows for light not harvested by the first row to be harvested by the second row and provides a low dead-space characteristic for the solar panel assembly. The gap between the planes and the space between individual solar energy collector modules of a same group allow for improved heat dissipation in the modules and for the solar panel assembly to offer low resistance to wind. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100126555 | CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC PHOTO-CURRENT BALANCING SYSTEM - A solar cell concentrating apparatus includes a parabolic reflector focusing a beam of light on an array of photovoltaic cells to generate electric current. The photocell array includes a number of triangular shaped segments arranged in a polygon. Surrounding the triangular shaped segments is another set of solar cells, each having a trapezoidal shape. The trapezoidal cells each have a larger surface area than that of the adjacent triangular shaped cell. The electric current produced by each trapezoidal cell is approximately the same as that of the smaller triangular shaped cells, which are subject to more intense incident light due to the beam's Gaussian spot profile. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100126556 | PHOTOVOLTAIC CONCENTRATOR WITH AUXILIARY CELLS COLLECTING DIFFUSE RADIATION - High-concentration photovoltaic concentrators can utilize much more expensive high-efficiency cells because they need so much less of them, but much of the solar resource is left ungathered thereby. The main cell is at the focal spot of the concentrator. Low-cost secondary solar cells are now added to the concentrator, surrounding the main cell. Diffuse skylight and misdirected normal rays irradiate these secondary cells, adding to output. Also, the power plant can have output on cloudy days, unlike conventional concentrators. As cell costs fall relative to other costs, this system becomes economically superior to both flat-plate and concentrator systems. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100132763 | DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF A LOCAL CONCENTRATOR SYSTEM - A local concentrator apparatus is described. The apparatus includes an array of photovoltaic cells arranged along an elongated strip, and one or more optical elements. The one or more optical elements are arranged to direct and optically concentrate sunlight onto the photovoltaic cells such that position that the directed sunlight impinges onto the strip follows a path moving along the strip without the optical elements tracking the sun as the sun traverses the sky during the day. | 06-03-2010 |
| 20100132764 | Enclosure for a Solar Collector - A solar collector includes an enclosure having a bottom and side wall surfaces substantially made of plastic material and a transparent top surface. At least one panel unit is composed of elongated conduits interconnected at each end by a manifold and is movably affixed inside the enclosure and sized to freely expand and contract therein due to thermal changes. The enclosure has at least one controllable air vent mechanism responsive to expansion and contraction of the panel unit. | 06-03-2010 |
| 20100139736 | GEOTHERMAL HEATING AND COOLING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - The present application provides a geothermal heating and cooling system for a power conversion system within an enclosure. The geothermal heating and cooling system may include a heat exchanger positioned about the power conversion system and within the enclosure, one or more pipes positioned within the ground, and a heat transfer medium circulating within the heat exchanger and the pipes so as to transfer heat between the power conversion system and the ground. | 06-10-2010 |
| 20100139737 | Photovoltaic power generation system - A photovoltaic power generation system including a solar cell module having a plurality of layers and a sun tracking device to change an incident angle of solar energy upon the solar cell module. The sun tracking device is mounted at one of the layers such that the sun tracking device is combined with the solar cell module into a module. | 06-10-2010 |
| 20100139738 | Rotating Photovoltaic Cells - An apparatus is provided that comprises photovoltaic cells provided on a first rotatable member, an electric motor having an axial shaft, and a second rotatable member provided with an impeller. The photovoltaic cells capture and convert the solar energy into electrical energy. The electric motor is connected to and is in electric communication with the photovoltaic cells for powering the electric motor. The electric motor converts the electrical energy into mechanical energy for rotating the photovoltaic cells in a first direction about a central axis and for rotating the axial shaft connected to an impeller in a second direction about the central axis. The rotating axial shaft rotates the impeller at high revolutions per minute which generates a flow of air that is directed to the rotating photovoltaic cells on the first rotatable member. The photovoltaic cells are cooled by the air-flow and operate at a lower temperature. | 06-10-2010 |
| 20100147359 | Modular Solar Panel Racking System - Disclosed herein are embodiments of modular racking systems for solar panels and in particular, modular solar panel racks, racking systems, arrays of racks, kits and methods of use. One embodiment of a modular solar panel rack comprises a plurality of discrete ballast holders and a plurality of panel support members each having two upright portions, a transverse portion contiguously connected between the two upright portions, the connection such that the transverse portion is non-perpendicular to the two upright portions, and a retainer attached to the transverse portion and configured to retain a solar panel. Each of the plurality of ballast holders is connected to no more than four panel support members, each ballast holder perpendicularly connected to one of the upright portions. | 06-17-2010 |
| 20100147360 | Assembly of a Photovoltaic Concentrator - Techniques are disclosed that facilitate the manufacturability, mechanical integrity, and performance of photovoltaic devices and assemblies. One embodiment includes assembling concentrating lenses into a structural frame such that the lenses are aligned and mechanically secure both during and upon completion of the assembly. Another embodiment includes a method of assembly where an optical coupling material is injected into a cavity within a concentrating lens that encloses a photovoltaic material. Another embodiment includes a method of assembly that creates an enclosed busway within a rail supporting the concentrating lenses, wherein a clamping cover serves to mechanically lock or otherwise secure the lenses to the supporting rail while at the same time serves as a section of the rail assembly that encloses the busway for the electrical wiring and interconnections. | 06-17-2010 |
| 20100154861 | PRINTED SOLAR PANEL - A solar panel can include a substrate with layers of droplets of different materials disposed on a surface of the substrate. An outer layer can be disposed away from the surface and can comprise a face of the solar panel. The layers can comprise a cathode electrode and an anode electrode disposed between the outer layer and the surface of the substrate. The layers can further comprise a P region and an N region. The P region can be disposed at least partially around the anode electrode. The N region can be disposed at least partially around the P region and at least partially around the cathode electrode. The P region and the N region can comprise droplets of a P material comprising P-doped semiconductor particles and an N material comprising N-doped semiconductor particles respectively. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100154862 | METHOD OF OBTAINING A TEXTURED SUBSTRATE FOR A PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL - The invention relates to a method for obtaining an external covering of a photovoltaic device, said covering being constituted by a glass substrate having texturing in the form of at least one row of grooves that are mutually parallel and preferably spaced by a regular distance d, said method being characterized in that there is used, for the impression of said texturing, texturing means incorporating reliefs whose spacing is different from the distance d between two rows of grooves on the glass substrate. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100154863 | CONCENTRATOR SOLAR CELL MODULES WITH LIGHT CONCENTRATING ARTICLES COMPRISING IONOMERIC MATERIALS - A concentrator solar cell module comprises at least one solar cell and at least one light concentrating article. The at least one light concentrating article is capable of concentrating about 1.02 to about 2000 sun equivalents of solar energy onto the solar cell(s) and comprises an ionomer composition. The ionomer composition comprises or is produced from an ionomer that has a temperature of onset of creep that is significantly greater than its peak melting temperature. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100163096 | Economic solar electricity panel system - Economical sunlight collection panels are constructed to minimize the cost to generate electricity from solar radiation. The panels use a plurality of fixed plastic linear lenses to collect sunlight over a wide arc of solar movement and concentrate the collected light onto a plurality of relatively expensive narrow strips of photovoltaic material. The photovoltaic strips are moved in an arculate path and maintained parallel to the lenses so that the lines of light concentrated by the lens remain on the strips and produce electricity over a wide portion of the sun's path across the sky, even though the area of the photovoltaic strips is minimized for economy. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100163097 | SOLAR CELL MODULE WITH CONCAVITY SURFACE - An exemplary solar cell module includes a main body, a number of solar cells, and a reflective layer. The main body defines a concavity surface defined thereon. The solar cells are positioned at the concavity surface and generally symmetrically arranged with respect to a central axis of the concavity surface, configured for converting sunlight to electricity. The reflective layer is positioned on the concavity surface, with the solar cells exposed to an exterior of the main body corresponding to the concavity surface. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100163098 | RECEIVERS FOR CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FABRICATING THE SAME - The present subject matter relates to receivers for concentrating photovoltaic systems and methods for fabricating such receivers. A receiver for a concentrating photovoltaic system can comprise a substrate, a plurality of electrical contact pads located on a first surface of the substrate, and a plurality of photovoltaic cells each having plurality of electrically conductive traces that are each electrically coupled to one of the electrical contact pads. In some embodiments, all of the conductive traces can be located on the back surface of the photovoltaic cells for conduction of electric current generated by the photovoltaic cells when illuminated. Alternatively, conductive traces can further be located on a front surface of the photovoltaic cells and can be electrically coupled to corresponding contact pads by electrical connectors. Regardless of the specific arrangement, the receivers can be fabricated using industry standard soldering techniques often used in the electronics industry. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100170559 | System and Method for the Generation of Electrical Power from Sunlight - A system for the generation of electrical power from sunlight includes a solar cell assembly with at least two sets of solar cells, each of these sets being adapted to a set-specific light frequency spectrum so as to convert light having said set-specific frequency spectrum into electrical energy with an optimized energy conversion efficiency. The system is arranged to respond to changes in the frequency spectrum of the sunlight, for example, in accordance with the time of the day, by causing the sunlight to selectively impinge on one or another of the different sets of solar cells. Thus, an enhanced energy conversion efficiency of the system is obtained. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100170560 | Durable, lightweight, and efficient solar concentrator - A solar concentrator, which is modular, durable, lightweight, and cost-efficient is described. The solar concentrator is constructed from a plurality of interconnected reflector panels that are secured to a contoured support frame assembly by means of an adjustable fastening mechanism. The reflector panels are preferably fabricated from a low-cost composite material and have an optically flat front surface. A specularly reflective front surface is formed on the reflector panel by deposition of a plurality of thin films which are highly reflective. Individual reflector panels can be interconnected and arranged into a two-dimensional grid having a predetermined degree of curvature by means of the contoured support frame assembly. Electromagnetic radiation incident upon the reflector panel arrangement is reflected to and concentrated upon a collector plate or receiving surface or receiver where it may be converted into a usable form of energy. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100170561 | SOLAR CELL MODULE AND SURFACE LAYER THEREOF - A surface layer of a solar cell module is provided for being added onto a surface of the solar cell module. The surface layer is a liquid having a predetermined height and a refractive index from 1 to 1.55 for increasing light transmission and/or a thermal resistivity of the surface layer is less than that of the glass to improve heat dissipation of the solar cell module. The surface layer of the solar cell further includes a storage buffer apparatus to keep the predetermined height of the surface layer with/without texture from wave generators for the improvement in light transmission and heat dissipation. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100175738 | HELIOSTAT AND SYSTEM - A solar heliostat and system are described with various characteristics particularly suitable for concentrating systems with a relatively large number of small heliostats. Other features contribute to high performance, low cost, high durability, and high temperature operation, such as desired for high efficiency thermal power generation. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100175739 | Three-Dimensional Solar Energy Receiving Device - The solar energy receiving device is composed of a solar energy collector and a sunbeam guiding unit. The solar energy collector is formed by a bottom plate and four side walls, all of which are made by solar panels. The sunbeam guiding unit is disposed in or over the solar energy collector for reflecting or refracting the sunbeams to the bottom plate and the side walls. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100175740 | SOLAR COLLECTOR WITH END MODIFICATIONS - In one embodiment, a concentrating solar energy collector, which tracks movements of the sun along one axis has a reflective trough, at least one solar receiver mounted above the reflective trough and configured so that incident sunlight striking the reflective trough is directed toward the at least one solar receiver, and a reflector extender coupled to a first end of the reflective trough and configured to capture and direct incident sunlight towards the at least one solar receiver. In another embodiment, one or more extended end reflectors is attached with a reflective trough of a solar energy collector. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100180928 | SOLAR ARRAYS AND OTHER PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) DEVICES USING PV ENHANCEMENT FILMS FOR TRAPPING LIGHT - A solar energy conversion assembly for efficiently capturing solar energy by providing additional chances to absorb reflected sunlight. The assembly includes one or more solar cells that each include a light-receiving surface. A fraction of light incident upon the light-receiving surface is reflected. The assembly includes a photovoltaic (PV) enhancement film of transparent material such as plastic positioned to cover at least a portion of the light-receiving surface. The PV enhancement film includes a substrate positioned proximate to or abutting the light-receiving surface. The film includes a plurality of total internal reflection (TIR) elements on the substrate opposite the light-receiving surface. The TIR elements transmit initially received or incident light to the light-receiving surface of the solar cell without significant focusing and then use TIR to trap a substantial portion of the reflected light to provide additional chances for absorption such that typically lost light may be converted to electricity. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100180929 | PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) ENHANCEMENT FILMS FOR ENHANCING OPTICAL PATH LENGTHS AND FOR TRAPPING REFLECTED LIGHT - A solar energy conversion assembly for efficiently capturing solar energy by providing additional chances to absorb reflected sunlight and providing longer path lengths in the photovoltaic (PV) material. The assembly includes a PV device including a layer of PV material and a protective top covering the PV material (e.g., a planar glass cover applied with adhesive to the PV material). The assembly further includes a PV enhancement film formed of a substantially transparent material, and film is applied to at least a portion of the protective top such as with a substantially transparent adhesive. The PV enhancement film includes a plurality of absorption enhancement structures on the substrate opposite the PV device. Each absorption enhancement structure includes a light receiving surface that refracts incident light striking the PV enhancement film to provide an average path length ratio of greater than about 1.20 in the layer of PV material. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100180930 | PHOTOVOLTAIC ASSEMBLY WITH ELONGATED PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES AND INTEGRATED INVOLUTE-BASED REFLECTORS - A photovoltaic assembly has elongated photovoltaic modules. The photovoltaic modules each have a substrate with a photovoltaic material disposed on the substrate. Each respective photovoltaic module lies in the concave structure of a corresponding concentrator assembly. The concentrator assemblies have surfaces made with reflective material that form such concave structures. The concentrator assemblies each transmit light to their corresponding photovoltaic module. The surfaces of each concentrator assembly are shaped at least in part as an involute of the surface of their corresponding photovoltaic modules, and do not exceed the height of the their corresponding module. A frame is provided having a first support and a second support, where the modules extend between the supports. The concentrator is mechanically attached to the frame. A substantial portion of light striking the concentrator is ultimately redirected to the modules without associated tracking and/or control devices. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100180931 | Solar Power Equipment for the Industrial Processing of Various Materials Through the Utilization of Solar Energy - Solar power station for processing various materials by solar energy with a parabolic collector provided in its focus with a receiver, fixed in a manner enabling its free rotation at least in two directions around the shaft at its convex side, of a double shell structure comprising arched segments clamped to a grated frame structure adjustable to follow the direction of sunshine, provided with supporting and moving elements where it contains a heat receiver developed as a processing working space, and is connected to material storing units and the conic receiver ( | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100180932 | Solar Modules Including Spectral Concentrators and Related Manufacturing Methods - Described herein are solar modules including spectral concentrators and related manufacturing methods. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100186797 | Solar Leaves and Solar Tree Forest - A Solution for Energy Crisis - Solar leaves bearing solar films on the top surface and a reflective bottom surface can be attached to a solar tree or to a solar vine through a flexible petiole to convert sunlight into electricity. The electricity produced and be stored in a storage battery or can be sent to the national grid via an inverter. A group of solar trees can be put together in one area creating a solar forest to produce electricity from sunlight collectively. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100186798 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH ENHANCED LIGHT HARVESTING - A photovoltaic device optical system for enhanced light harvesting with a transparent layer of dielectric material having on one side an array of micro-lenses and on the opposite side a metal reflective film with an array of openings. The micro-lenses focus direct sunlight impinging thereon through the openings, to separate direct sunlight and diffuse sunlight. The photovoltaic device has a first photovoltaic cell system for the exploitation of the direct sunlight located in the opposite hemi-space of the micro-lenses array with respect to the plane of the openings array and a second photovoltaic cell system for the exploitation of diffuse sunlight, located in the same hemi-space containing the micro-lenses array with respect to the plane of the openings array. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100193009 | REFLECTOR AND SYSTEM FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION - A reflector for photovoltaic power generation is characterized by the use of a color coating on the surface of the reflector material which is stable to ultraviolet light. The reflector includes a substrate and a layer of high purity aluminum on the substrate. The aluminum layer is anodized and coated with a gold dye so that the reflector has a reflectivity which is high for long wave, near infrared, and red to green light, moderate for blue light, and low for ultraviolet light. When such a reflector is arranged adjacent to a photovoltaic panel, it reflects additional sunlight onto the panel to increase the electrical output of the panel without damaging the solar collector material of the panel. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100193010 | REFLECTOR AND SYSTEM FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION - A reflector for photovoltaic power generation is characterized by the use of a color coating on the surface of the reflector material which is stable to ultraviolet light. The reflector includes a substrate and a layer of high purity aluminum on the substrate. The aluminum layer is anodized and coated with a gold dye so that the reflector has a reflectivity which is high for long wave, near infrared, and red to green light, moderate for blue light, and low for ultraviolet light. When such a reflector is arranged adjacent to a photovoltaic panel, it reflects additional sunlight onto the panel to increase the electrical output of the panel without damaging the solar collector material of the panel. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100193011 | MATERIALS FOR SOLAR CONCENTRATORS AND DEVICES, METHODS AND SYSTEM USING THEM - Solar concentrators are disclosed that improve the efficiency of PV cells and systems using them. The solar concentrators may be designed such that they include one or more chromophore assemblies, anti-Stokes materials or other suitable materials that emit light to a PV cell. Various materials and components of the solar concentrators are also described. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100200044 | SOLAR CELLS ARRANGEMENT - A solar energy conversion system is presented. The system comprises at least one waveguide arrangement having at least one light input respectively. The waveguide arrangement comprises a core unit for passing input solar radiation therethrough and a cladding material arrangement interfacing with the core therealong. The cladding material arrangement is configured as an array of spaced-apart solar cells arranged along the core unit and having different optical absorption ranges, such that an interface between the waveguide core and the cladding arrangement spectrally splits the photons of the input solar radiation by causing the photons of different wavelengths, while passing through the core unit, to be successively absorbed and thereby converted into electricity by the successive solar cells of said array. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100200045 | SOLAR POWER SYSTEM AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING AND DEPLOYMENT - A method of forming a photovoltaic module including providing a first layer, applying a first adhesive layer to the first layer, securing a first layer of conductors on the sealing layer, securing a set of photovoltaic cells on the first layer of conductors, electrically coupling at least a portion of the photovoltaic cells in parallel, securing a set of interconnecting conductors to the first layer of conductors, securing a second layer of conductors to the photovoltaic cells and the interconnecting conductors, electrically coupling the interconnecting wires to the first layer of conductors and the second layer of conductors, wherein in at least one of the first layer of conductors, the second layer of conductors and the interconnecting conductors are non-flat electrical wires and applying a final layer over the of photovoltaic cells and the first layer of conductors, the interconnecting conductors and second layer of conductors. A method of forming a large scale photovoltaic module array is also disclosed. A method of connecting multiple photovoltaic cells is also disclosed. A photovoltaic module is also disclosed. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100200046 | SOLAR PANEL USING A REFLECTIVE STRUCTURE - The present invention relates to photovoltaic modules with a plurality of separated photovoltaic elements ( | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100206355 | SELF GENERATING PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER UNIT - A photovolataic cell powered by artificial lights, wherein photovoltaic cell and artificial lights use a light guide to distribute light onto the photovoltaic cell while maintaining an overall compact shape. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100206356 | Rotational Trough Reflector Array For Solar-Electricity Generation - A rotational trough reflector solar-electricity generation device includes a trough reflector that rotates around a substantially vertical axis. A strip-type photovoltaic (PV) device is fixedly mounted along the focal line of the trough reflector. A tracking system rotates the trough reflector such that the trough reflector is aligned generally parallel to the incident sunlight (e.g., in a generally east-west direction at sunrise, turning to generally north-south at noon, and turning generally west-east at sunset). A disc-shaped support structure is used to distribute the reflector's weight over a larger area and to minimize the tracking system motor size. Multiple trough reflectors are mounted on the disc-shaped support to maximize power generation. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100206357 | Two-Part Solar Energy Collection System With Replaceable Solar Collector Component - A two-part solar energy collection system for installation on a planar support surface (e.g., a rooftop) includes a permanent positioning component including a base structure and a replaceable solar collector component including solar energy collection elements fixedly mounted on a support frame. Each collection element includes an optical element arranged to focus solar radiation onto a focal line, and a linearly-arranged solar energy collector (e.g., PV cells) fixedly maintained on the focal line. The replaceable solar collector component is secured to a rotating platform of the base structure such that the focal lines of the solar energy collection elements are maintained in a plane that is substantially parallel to the support surface, and the rotating platform and replaceable solar collector component are collectively pivoted by a positioning system around a rotational axis to align the PV cells) parallel to the received sunlight beams. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100206358 | DEVICE FOR INCREASING THE LUMINOUS FLUX PER UNIT AREA WITH THE ABILITY TO REDUCE THE LIGHT-TAKING DISTANCE IN RESPECT TO THE OPPOSITE LIGHT SOURCE - A device for increasing the luminous flux per unit area with the ability to reduce the light-taking distance in respect to the opposite light source of the present invention mainly comprises a front lens part, a rear lens part, an axial mutually-perpendicular bi-axial support, a movable support, a fixed base, dampers for automatically limiting tilt speed, tilt gravity generators and photoelectric conversion array, etc. Based on the principle of light group field effect, the device can increase the luminous flux and light intensity per unit area of excident light by use of lens array group so that the photoelectric conversion system is able to get more light energy. The device is able to automatically keep pace with the motion of the sun in two dimensions without measuring sensors. The device is mainly applied in solar energy photovoltaic generating technology and recycling of different light energies. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100212716 | Solar radiation collection using dichroic surface - A solar radiation collection system includes a first photovoltaic cell, a second photovoltaic cell, and an optical medium, the optical medium. The optical medium has a first zone configured to transmit radiation incident on the first zone to the first cell, a second zone disposed adjacent a side of the first zone, and a first dichroic surface configured to reflect a first portion of radiation incident on the second zone such that the reflected radiation is directed toward the first cell by internal reflection and to transmit a second portion of radiation incident on the second zone to the second cell. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100212717 | Solar collector with optical waveguide - A solar energy collection system includes a first photovoltaic cell sensitive to radiation in a first wavelength range, a second photovoltaic cell sensitive to radiation in a second wavelength range, and a first waveguide configured to direct radiation toward the first and second photovoltaic cells and defining a longitudinal axis substantially non-perpendicular to a radiation receiving surface of at least one of the photovoltaic cells. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100212718 | Optical Waveguide based Solar Cell and methods for manufacture thereof - A more efficient design for a solar cell based upon an optical waveguide along with cost effective methods for manufacturing the new solar cell. The optical waveguide based solar cell achieves an increase in efficiency through the use of a three dimensional geometry. In general terms, an inwards facing solar cell is wrapped around the length of an optical waveguide which then uses the end of the waveguide to capture the light and feed it in towards the lengthy solar cell. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100212719 | SYSTEM AND METHODS OF UTILIZING SOLAR ENERGY - A system and methods for utilizing solar energy is proposed. The invention consists of: (i) A sunlight concentrator that is either panel-shaped or take the form of separate containers, either of which allow at least 45 degrees light incidence angle deviation from the orthogonal, and therefore does not require a tracking device. Said panel is planar, or has a gentle curvature, but is of fixed shape. Said concentrator has two embodiments, one of which is based on a plurality of light-tubes, the other is based on a plurality of mirrors. (ii) Methods of energy conversion to electricity, embodied in a concentrator exit structure combined with a spatial arrangement of photovoltaic cells. (iii) Methods for conversion of solar radiation to heat, embodied in a concentrator exit structure combined with a heat energy storage unit built according to principles set forth herein. (iv) Methods of dual land use of a concentrator field and of conversion to electricity from an area covered with water, by the use of adapted support structures. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100212720 | HIGHLY EFFICIENT RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEM - In one embodiment, a solar energy system includes a plurality of module rows and a plurality of reflector rows. Each module row includes a plurality of PV modules. Each PV module includes a plurality of PV cells arranged in a plurality of cell rows, the PV cells in each cell row being electrically connected in parallel to each other, and the plurality of cell rows being electrically connected in series to each other. Each reflector row includes a plurality of reflectors. The reflector rows are interposed between the module rows such that each reflector row is mechanically interconnected between two adjacent module rows and is arranged to reflect light having some incident angles on to one of the two adjacent module rows. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100218804 | Method for aligning a lens array to a cell array - A concentration photovoltaic module includes a lens array and a cell array. The lens array includes lenses and alignment windows. The cell array includes solar cells and alignment points. A method is provided for aligning the lens array to the cell array. In the method, a collimation module is made with collimated light sources. The concentration photovoltaic module is located under the collimation module so that the alignment windows are located under the collimated light sources. The collimated light sources are used to turn sunlit into collimated light beams and cast the collimated light beams onto the cell array through the alignment windows. The lens array is moved relative to the cell array so that the collimated light beams are directed to the alignment points. Hence, light beams emitted from the lenses are directed to the solar cells. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100218805 | SUBSTRATE, AN ASSEMBLY PROCESS, AND AN ASSEMBLY APPARATUS - A substrate assembly ( | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100218806 | CONCENTRATED SOLAR SYSTEM - There is provided a concentrating solar collector in the shape of an inverted truncated pyramid (collector) with light reflective surfaces on the inside. The collector includes a large top opening which is pointed towards the sun collecting the sun rays. A high-concentration photovoltaic solar cell is placed at the narrow end of the collector. The light is concentrated onto the solar cell, which generates electricity from the concentrated solar light. The collector is made of, but not limited to, an inflatable lightweight reflective film, balloon filled with helium, glass, plastic or metal. The reflective surface inside the collector is obtained using inexpensive mirror coating which is applied to clear glass or plastic. A cooling system is used for keeping the concentrated photovoltaic solar cell at or close to a fixed temperature to maintain the cell at its highest operating efficiency of power generation. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100218807 | 1-DIMENSIONAL CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS - Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity are disclosed herein. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100218808 | CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS AND METHODS WITH HIGH COOLING RATES - The present disclosure relates to a concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) module, system, and method utilizing a CPV module to provide uniform, concentrated solar energy distribution over one or more photovoltaic (PV) cells, to improve cooling of the PV cells to allow for high solar concentration, and to offer an energy efficient system that can be cost effectively implemented. In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention includes solar collectors that concentrate solar energy and mechanisms for transporting and transferring the concentrated solar energy directly with the CPV module. Further, the CPV module includes a novel cooling mechanism utilizing a fluid to cool an interior of the module and the PV cells. | 09-02-2010 |
| 20100224231 | Photovoltaic Module Utilizing Beam Steering and a Fixed Concentrator - A solar power apparatus and method for fabricating the same are disclosed. The apparatus includes a beam steering assembly, a plurality of converts, and a controller. The beam steering assembly directs light traveling in a first direction to light traveling in a second direction. Each converter is fixed with respect to a substrate, and each converter includes a light concentrator and a receiver. The controller determines the position of the sun relative to the beam steering assembly and controls the beam steering assembly such that the concentrators receive sunlight from that determined direction. Each light concentrator is fixed relative to the light receiver that receives light from that light concentrator. The beam steering assembly elements can be fabricated by molding or by embossing of thin plastic sheets. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100224232 | Passively Compensative Optic and Solar Receiver - Embodiments of the present invention employ certain techniques, alone or in combination, to enhance a range of acceptance angles at which an apparatus may efficiently collect solar radiation. One technique positions a passive secondary optical compensator element between collected light and a receiver. In certain embodiments, the compensator element accomplishes refraction followed by at least one total internal reflection of the collected light. Another technique employs a receiver having radially-oriented strings of cells connected in series, where strings in opposing sectors are connected in parallel and in series with each other to reduce a dependence of power and/or current output, on alignment of the collector apparatus relative to a light source. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100224233 | THREE DIMENSIONAL PHOTO VOLTAIC MODULES IN AN ENERGY RECEPTION PANEL - An apparatus for receiving energy is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a support base and a plurality of cells. The support base comprises an electric terminal. The plurality of cells are mounted to the support base. Further, each of the plurality of cells is electrically connected to the electric terminal disposed on the support base. In an embodiment each cell may be in the shape of a rhombus. Further, each of the plurality of cells may be oriented in a non-parallel relationship with each neighboring cell. | 09-09-2010 |
| 20100229919 | Device for supporting and reversibly attaching and detaching photovoltaic modules - A device for the support of photovoltaic modules such that the tilt angles of the photovoltaic modules can be varied to modify the exposure of the photovoltaic modules to sunlight for the purpose of generating solar electricity. The device allows for the reversible attachment and detachment of photovoltaic modules, serves as the storage for the photovoltaic modules when the photovoltaic modules are detached, and is easily portable by a single person. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100229920 | SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - A solar concentrator is described. The solar concentrator includes a plane including a plurality of concentrating elements, wherein each concentrating element includes a hollow taper including a first opening; and at least one photoelectric conversion layer covering inner side surfaces of the concentrating elements. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100236599 | PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRANGEMENT - The photovoltaic arrangement for producing electric current from light has a photovoltaic installation with a predetermined area, which has a plurality of photovoltaic modules and a number N of reflectors, each reflector having a area which is greater than the area of the photovoltaic installation and being arranged to reflect at least part of the light incident on the reflector onto the photovoltaic installation. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100236600 | PARKING SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTORS - Disclosed are various apparatus and methods that may reduce or prevent damage to fragile components of solar collectors during storms, especially more violent storms such as hurricanes and sand-storms. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100236601 | SOLAR CELL, CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION MODULE, CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION UNIT AND SOLAR CELL MANUFACTURING METHOD - A solar cell includes a solar cell element that converts sunlight concentrated by a concentrating lens into electricity, a receiver substrate on which the solar cell element is placed, and a resin sealing portion that resin-seals the solar cell element. The solar cell further includes a reflecting member that has an irradiation window that is disposed facing the solar cell element and through which sunlight is directed to the solar cell element, a light introducing window that is formed larger than the irradiation window and disposed facing the concentrating lens and through which sunlight is introduced, and a reflecting face that is formed between the irradiation window and the light introducing window and that reflects and guides sunlight toward the solar cell element. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100236602 | Solar Concentrator with Self-Tracking Features - Solar collection systems are provided herein that includes a mobile, self-tracking receiver support member which is suspended from a support beam spanning the two sides of an immobile solar trough concentrator. The self-tracking receiver support member has photovoltaic cells of equal power affixed to two or more downward facing surfaces of the support member. These photovoltaic cells face downward into the solar parabolic trough concentrator and respond to the concentrated light of the path of the points of focus being reflected upwards from a parabolic concentrator. The solar cells are wired to a DC electric motor so that the motor rotationally responds to the disparity in the power output of the solar cells. As the path of the points of focus of the solar concentrator moves to one side or the other of the center of the self-tracking support member, the motor automatically moves the support member, along with and the receiver it is carrying, into the parabolic concentrator's path of the points of focus. This self-tracking member combines the functions of tracking the sun while also transporting the receiver attached thereto into the concentrator's path of the points of focus. The power to drive the motor is preferably provided solely by the power of the sun. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100236603 | Concentrator-Type Photovoltaic (CPV) Modules, Receiver and Sub-Receivers and Methods of Forming Same - CPV modules include a back plate having an array of 1 mm | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100236604 | VERTICAL SOLAR PANEL ARRAY AND METHOD - A vertical solar panel array including a portable base with a rotatable surface and a plurality of double-sided solar panels each having a plurality of solar cells mounted on each side thereof. The plurality of double-sided solar panels are mounted vertically on the rotatable surface of the base. Electrical circuitry couples each solar cell of the plurality of solar cells to an output terminal. An electric motor is mechanically coupled between the base and the rotatable surface to provide rotation and a controller is coupled to the electric motor and to a light sensor. The controller is programmed to analyze readings from the light sensor and to control the electric motor to align the plurality of double-sided solar panels with the sun for maximum output. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100236605 | VENTILATED PHOTOVOLTAIC RECEIVER - A photovoltaic receiver comprising an elongated structure bearing a plurality of photovoltaic cells. Said structure carries a plurality of finned dissipators, mounted on which are said photovoltaic cells, and ventilating means, designed to convey a flow of cooling air towards said dissipators | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100243031 | SOLAR LIGHT TRACKING SENSOR DIRECTION SETTING/MEASURING/RE-ADJUSTING METHOD AND SOLAR LIGHT COLLECTING DEVICE - The direction of a solar light tracking sensor is set easily with high accuracy. A solar light tracking guide ( | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100243032 | Sunlight Collecting System - Provided is a highly reliable solar collecting system. Since a concave minor has a reflection film on a base material on the side opposite to the side of a solar light incoming surface, peeling, breaking and the like are suppressed by protecting the reflection film by the base material, even when a dropping material is brought into contact with the side of the reflection film with impact or accumulated dropped materials are periodically cleaned. As an elliptical mirror has a reflection film on the base material on the side of the solar light incoming surface, even when solar light having large energy enters, the solar light is reflected by the reflection surface before reaching the base material and there is a small possibility of having the base material heated. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100243033 | SOLAR CELL LAMINATE COMPRISING A SEMICONDUCTOR LAYER - Disclosed is a photovoltaic laminate comprising a photovoltaic semiconductor material. The photovoltaic laminate may be manufactured without the use of adhesive, thereby avoiding light loss through absorption by an adhesive layer. The laminate may be formed by forming a sandwich of the crystalline semiconductor material between layers of non-crosslinked cross-linkable polymer, followed by in situ cross-linking of the polymer. The laminate may be incorporated in a curved surface of a structure, such as a boat hull or boat deck. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100252091 | SOLAR ELECTRICITY GENERATION SYSTEM - A solar electricity generation system including a solar energy-to-electricity converter having a solar energy receiving surface including at least an electricity-generating solar energy receiving surface and a plurality of reflectors arranged to reflect solar energy directly onto the solar energy receiving surface, each of the plurality of reflectors having a reflecting surface which is configured and located and aligned with respect to the solar energy receiving surface to reflect specular solar radiation with a high degree of uniformity onto the solar energy receiving surface, the configuration, location and alignment of each of the reflectors being such that the geometrical projection of each reflecting surface is substantially coextensive with the electricity-generating solar energy receiving surface. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100258160 | Fiber Optic Solar Nanogenerator Cells - A solar cell employs an optical fiber and semiconductor nanowires grown around the fiber. A p-n junction based design, organic-inorganic heterojunction, or a dye-sensitized structure is built at the surfaces of the nanowires. Light entering the fiber from a tip propagates through the fiber until it enters a nanowire where it reaches a photovoltaic element. Light entering the fiber cannot escape until it interacts with a photovoltaic element, thereby increasing the solar conversion efficiency. The fiber can transmit light, while the nanowires around the fibers increase the surface area of light exposure. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100258161 | Semiconductor Device - The invention provides a method for increasing the usable surface area of a semiconductor wafer having a substantially planar surface and a thickness dimension at right angles to said substantially planar surface, the method including the steps of selecting a strip thickness for division of the wafer into a plurality of strips, selecting a technique for cutting the wafer into the strips at an angle to the substantially planar surface, in which the combined strip thickness and width of wafer removed by the cutting is less than the thickness of the wafer, cutting the wafer into strips using the selected technique and separating the strips from each other. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100263709 | SYSTEMS FOR COST-EFFECTIVE CONCENTRATION AND UTILIZATION OF SOLAR ENERGY - The present invention is primarily directed to cost-effective systems for using large reflective elements that track the sun on two axes to concentrate solar energy onto a receiver that can convert the sun's optical energy to a form usable for extensive displacement of combustion of fossil fuels. The structures of the tracker frame, tracking mechanism and tracker supports are co-optimized with the optical elements and the receiver for high efficiency, low cost, and ease of assembly, making moderate and large-scale implementations cost-competitive with fossil fuels for peak power, and, with suitable storage, for base-load power and dispatchable peaking power in sunny locations. Improvement to small-tracker two-axis systems and one-axis tracking systems that focus in two dimensions are also included, as are improvements in systems for space-based solar power. | 10-21-2010 |
| 20100263710 | SINGLE-AXIS SOLAR TRACKER - The invention relates to a single-axis solar tracker formed by a support structure ( | 10-21-2010 |
| 20100263711 | MAXIMUM POWER POINT TRACKING CONTROL APPARATUS FOR SOLAR BATTERY - Maximum power point tracking control apparatus for a solar battery includes: a voltage detection section for detecting an output voltage of the battery; a current detection section for detecting an output current of the battery; a storage section storing therein duty cycle values of a solar-battery output controlling switching element that are predefined on the basis of relationship between output voltages and currents of the battery; and a control section for, at the start of maximum power point tracking control, reading out, from the storage section, one of the duty cycle values that corresponds to the detected output voltage and controlling a duty cycle of the switching element in accordance with the read-out duty cycle value. | 10-21-2010 |
| 20100269884 | SOLAR POWER GENERATING APPARATUS - The present invention provides a solar power generating apparatus including a base and multiple power generating units connected in series. Each of the power generating units includes a heat dissipation plate separably connected to the base; a solar cell disposed on the heat dissipation plate; and a rectification device connected in parallel to the solar cell. When the heat dissipation plate of one of the power generating units is detached from the base, the others of the power generating units may continue to operate. | 10-28-2010 |
| 20100269885 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - Some photovoltaic cells have a front face accepting incoming incident light and opaque gridlines overlying part of the front face, electrically bonded to the face, with upper reflective facets oblique to the plane of the front face and producing outgoing reflected light. An optical interface parallel to and in front of the front face transmits incoming light to the front face and to the gridlines and reflects back towards the front face by total internal reflection at least some of the outgoing reflected light. Some photovoltaic devices have a triple junction photovoltaic cell, a single junction photovoltaic cell, and a reflective surface arranged to distribute incoming light between the cells. The surface may be a frequency-selective mirror that apportions light so when the cells are in series the power produced, and preferably the photocurrent, is greater than if all the light fell on the triple junction cell alone. | 10-28-2010 |
| 20100269886 | NON-IMAGING LIGHT CONCENTRATOR - An apparatus includes a light concentrator, which during operation directs light from an entrance aperture and an exit aperture, and a photovoltaic device positioned relative to the exit aperture to receive the light. The light concentrator includes a hollow body formed from a pair of spaced-apart sidewalls and an exit wall connecting the sidewalls, each sidewall being formed from a material having a first refractive index, n | 10-28-2010 |
| 20100275971 | Scalable Dense PV Solar Receiver for High Concentration - A solar receiver and system is provided that generates electrical power generation from very highly concentrated sunlight. The system has advantages in: cooling and packaging for electrical power devices; electrical circuit impedance; and low frequency and high frequency electrical properties. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100275972 | Enclosed, Off-axis Solar Concentrator - A solar concentrator including a housing having a receiving wall, a reflecting wall and at least two end walls, the receiving, reflecting and end walls defining a three-dimensional volume having an inlet, wherein a vertical axis of the housing is generally perpendicular to the inlet, a receiver mounted on the receiving wall of the housing, the receiver including at least one photovoltaic cell, wherein a vertical axis of the receiver is disposed at a non-zero angle relative to the vertical axis of the housing, at least one clip disposed on the reflecting wall, an optical element received within the three-dimensional volume, the optical element including at least one tab, the tab being engaged by the clip to align the optical element with the receiver, and a window received over the inlet to enclose the housing. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100282295 | Solar power unit - A solar power unit having the following features: It can rotate on an axle to face the sun The solar collectors are arranged in a stepped shape. It has mirrors that can fold out to increase the area over which sunlight is collected. There is a protective bonnet that can cover the solar collectors during inclement weather. The invention has a semi-cylindrical main body that rests on a stand, supported by an axle on which it can pivot to track the sun. The stepped solar collectors are on the upper half of the main body and are covered by the mirrors when they fold in. A first embodiment has a battery that stores electricity generated by sunlight and an inverter for converting direct current from the battery to alternating current. A second embodiment has parabolic collectors that heat water to create high pressure steam that is used to generate electricity. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100282296 | Solar Energy Module - A solar energy module is provided and includes a substrate comprising at least one light diffusion layer and a plurality of light guiding layers adjacent to the light diffusion layer, and solar chips disposed on the lateral surfaces of the substrate. Solar light enters the substrate and is diffused by the light diffusion layer, and the diffused solar light is reflected by an interface of the light diffusion layer and the light guiding layer and is collected by the solar chips. A part of the solar light enters the light guiding layers and is reflected by the interface of the light guiding layers, and the reflected light is collected by the solar chips. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100282297 | SOLAR CELL - A solar cell comprises a light-receiving side electrode layer | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100282298 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE FOR IMPROVING SOLAR CONVERSION EFFICIENCY - An electronic device for improving solar conversion efficiency includes a main body and a reflecting element. The main body includes an operation module and a solar panel. The solar panel is electrically connected with the operation module for converting light energy to electrical energy. The reflecting element is connected with the main body and corresponds to the solar panel for reflecting light to the solar panel. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100282299 | Concentrating type solar collection and daylighting system within glazed building envelopes - A Fresnel lens comprising a substantially polygonal focusing portion adapted to focus solar radiation to a area having the same geometry as the focusing portion of the lens. Also a solar module comprising the Fresnel collecting lens and a substantially polygonal photovoltaic cell. The photovoltaic cell is mounted at distance from the Fresnel collecting lens so that the size of the area substantially matches the size of the photovoltaic cell. Also a solar panel having multiple modules within a glazed building envelope system. The solar panel also includes an actuating mechanism within the glazed window envelope system. The actuating mechanism is operatively connected to the plurality of solar modules and is adapted to move the solar modules to track the sun. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100288331 | FLEXIBLE ELECTRICAL SUBSTRATE - A flexible substrate layer having metallic bus-lines and connecting stitches is formed. A trace layer having electrical traces and thermal vias is also formed. The substrate layer and the trace layer are bonded together by way of respective thermal pathways and electrically interconnected. The resulting layer-wise assembly is configured to support and electrically interconnect an array of photovoltaic cells and to channel away heat during operation. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100288332 | SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC CONCENTRATOR PANEL - A solar photovoltaic concentrator panel comprises a Fresnel lens concentrator which may be arched and a photovoltaic receiver within a container comprising a top window. The lens, photovoltaic cell, and window may be affixed in a container with no internal sun-tracking mechanisms or related internal moving parts such as motors, drive systems, or bearings. The window is transparent and the bottom of the container typically dimensioned and configured as a heat exchanger to passively dissipate waste heat from the photovoltaic receiver to the ambient environment. The Fresnel lens concentrator is typically a free-standing Fresnel lens concentrator disposed within the container at a fixed position relative to an interior dimension of the container, optically forming a focal region of concentrated sunlight. The photovoltaic receiver comprises a photovoltaic cell or group of such cells disposed within the container and attached to the bottom at a fixed position relative to an interior dimension of the container to maintain alignment of a predetermined portion of the photovoltaic receiver within the focal region of the free-standing Fresnel lens concentrator. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100288333 | HEAT DISSIPATING PROTECTIVE SHEETS AND ENCAPSULANT FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - A photovoltaic module that resists or reduces unwanted increases in temperature of the photovoltaic cells encapsulated within the module is provided. This is accomplished by incorporating materials into module components that operate to direct heat away from the solar cells that are within the modules. One or more phase change materials are incorporated into the polymer layer of the backsheet that is position closest to the solar cells. Thermally conductive materials may be incorporated into the layers and/or module components closer to the outside of the module. These materials can be used separately or in conjunction with each other. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100294337 | Periodic Alignment Adjustment Techniques for Terrestrial Solar Arrays - An automated method causes a terrestrial solar cell array to track the sun. The solar cell system may include motors that adjust a position of the array along different respective axes with respect to the sun. An alignment analysis procedure, e.g., a find sun routine, is performed to ensure that the solar cell system is properly aligned with the sun during solar tracking. This procedure may sweep the solar cell system along determined paths (e.g., azimuth and elevation paths) while measuring an output parameter indicative of system performance. The measured data is analyzed to determine if the solar cell system is in misalignment in which case the solar cell system is moved into proper alignment. The alignment procedure may be implemented on a periodic basis or using triggers, and maybe automatically executed or manually executed. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100294338 | Large Area Concentrator Lens Structure and Method - A solar module includes a substrate member, a plurality of photovoltaic strips arranged in an array configuration overlying the substrate member, and a concentrator structure comprising extruded glass material operably coupled to the plurality of photovoltaic strips. A plurality of elongated convex regions are configured within the concentrator structure. The plurality of elongated convex regions are respectively coupled to the plurality of photovoltaic strips. Each of the plurality of elongated convex regions includes a length and a convex surface region characterized by a radius of curvature, each of the elongated convex regions being configured to have a magnification ranging from about 1.5 to about 5. A coating material rendering the glass self-cleaning overlies the plurality of elongated convex regions. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100300510 | SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS WITH REFLECTING AND PHOTOVOLTAIC CONVERSION MEANS - A solar power system may include at least one reflector The reflector may have a surface configured to convert a first part of the sunlight incident thereon to electrical power The surface of the reflector may also be configured to reflect a second part of the sunlight incident thereon The at least one reflector may be configured to direct the second part of the sunlight incident thereon to a solar receiver A power management system may also be provided The power management system may receiver electrical power derived from the first part from the reflector. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20100307563 | Sub-Module for Photovoltaic Concentration Modules, Photovoltaic Concentration Module, Solar Power Installation, Packing Method and Position Calibration Method for Photovoltaic Concentration Modules - The invention relates to a photovoltaic concentration submodule ( | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100307564 | APPARATUS FOR TWO-WAY TRACING AND CONDENSING SUNLIGHT OF ROOF INSTALLATION TYPE - The direction of sunlight is tracked according to variations of the altitude of the sun to maximize condensing efficiency. An apparatus for tracking and condensing sunlight includes a horizontal truss, a roof truss forming a triangular structure inclined to both sides of the horizontal truss, and a hinge formed on a top of the roof truss. Solar module plates are formed on both inclined surfaces of the roof truss to condense sunlight and interoperate with each other in a lateral direction. A driving means supports lower portions of the solar module plates, and moves the lower portions thereof so the solar module plates can pivot in both left and right directions around the hinge. The apparatus tracks sunlight and pivots the solar module plates to maximize condensing efficiency, improves energy production efficiency by using a roof area, and firmly fixes the solar module plate to the roof. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100307565 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - Disclosed is a solar cell module which can collect solar light to a solar cell, while reducing accumulation of dusts and particles. The solar cell module is provided with a plurality of bifacial solar cells. The solar cells are coated together with a sealing film formed of a sealing resin material. A front surface side transparent board is bonded on the upper surface in the gravity direction, i.e., the front surface of the sealing film. On the front surface side of the front surface side transparent board, a lenticular lens is arranged for collecting solar light to a solar cell by refracting solar light entered from the front surface side of the solar cell module. On the lower surface in the gravity direction, i.e., the rear surface, of the sealing film, a rear surface side transparent board is bonded. On the rear surface side of the rear surface side transparent board, an uneven reflection film is arranged for reflecting solar light entered from the front surface side of the solar cell module and collecting the light to the solar cell. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100307566 | Photovoltaic Solar Island - A man-made island [ | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100313933 | Reflector-solar receiver assembly and solar module - A reflector-solar receiver assembly and methods related to the reflector-solar receiver assembly are described. The reflector-solar receiver assembly contains a reflector and a solar receiver. The reflector has a substantially planar light reflecting face and the solar receiver has a substantially planar light receiving face. The normal direction of the light reflecting face and the normal direction of the light receiving face are at an angle of about 90°. The reflector-solar receiver assembly can be installed at an installation site by placing the substantially planar light reflecting face at an angle of about γ−23.5° or about γ+23.5° from the gravitation line of the installation site, γ is the latitude of the installation site, so that the substantially planar light reflecting face reflects at least a portion of sunlight to the substantially planar light receiving face during a majority of the clear days of a year. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100319752 | Radiating apparatus for solar cell - A solar cell pack includes a solar cell for converting light into electricity, a circuit layer attached to the solar cell for transferring the electricity from the solar cell to a storage apparatus and radiating apparatus for radiating heat from the solar cell and the circuit layer. The radiating apparatus includes a radiator and a multi-purpose layer. The multi-purpose layer attaches the radiator to the circuit layer, isolates the radiator from the circuit layer and transfers heat to the radiator from the circuit layer in operation. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100319753 | Glass unit - A glass unit includes an energy collecting layer attached to a light directing device for collecting a light energy from the light directing device, and an energy converting layer electrically coupled to the energy collecting layer for converting the light energy into an electric energy, and the light directing device includes a number of nanometer particles to direct the light energy toward the energy collecting layer. The light directing device includes one or more glass layers, and a light collecting panel attached to the glass layer with a bonding layer and made of polymer materials which are mixed with the nanometer particles to form the light collecting panel. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100319754 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE CONFIGURATION - Improvements for a photovoltaic module (PVM) include the use of a micro-embossed, reflective optical film located in areas of the PVM not covered by the solar cells. The optical film is configured to reflect light incident upon the PVM onto the solar cells and may be formed from a polymeric material. Further enhancements include the use of a compliant heat conducting polymeric film on back sides of the solar cells and a heat conductive polymeric film deposited on an aluminum foil to form a composite film, which effects heat transfer from the solar cell junctions and improves cell efficiency. A top glass with selective frequency and anti-reflective coatings may also be used. Further, improved interconnects for the solar cells eliminate sharp edges, helping to avoid any potential for encapsulant tearing or tab “push-through” and resultant shorting during lamination. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100319755 | Solar Augmentation System - The present invention relates to a solar panel condenser apparatus that includes an optical condenser and a photovoltaic cell. The optical condenser may be two or more stages of Fresnel lenses. The optical condenser may also include one or more optical devices to separate sunlight into frequency bands so that light of different frequency bands falls on photovoltaic cells appropriate to the frequency band. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100319756 | SOLAR CELL APPARATUS WITH HIGH HEAT-DISSIPATING EFFICIENCY - The invention provides a solar cell apparatus with high heat-dissipating efficiency. The solar cell apparatus includes a heat-conducting device, a heat-dissipating device, and an energy-converting device. The heat-conducting device includes a flat portion and a contact portion. The heat-dissipating device contacts the contact portion and includes a plurality of fins. The energy-converting device is disposed on the flat portion and includes a semiconductor structure for converting light into electricity. In the operation of converting energy, heat absorbed by the semiconductor structure could be conducted through the flat portion to the heat-conducting device and the heat-dissipating device and then be dissipated from the fins. Thereby, it is avoided for the semiconductor structure to be over heated to influence the energy conversion efficiency. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100326492 | Photovoltaic Cell Support Structure Assembly - A plurality of CPV cells are mounted on a common ALOX™ plate. A copper interconnection layer is deposited over an insulating aluminum oxide surface of the ALOX™ plate. The interconnection layer connects all the CPV cells in series, so no wires are needed. In one embodiment, each CPV cell is mounted on a ceramic submount or an ALOX™ submount having an electrically insulating aluminum oxide layer formed in its bottom surface. Vias through the submount couple the cell electrodes to the copper interconnection pattern on the ALOX™ plate. The ALOX™ plate may be the heat sink or may be bolted or soldered to a separate heat sink. In one embodiment, edges of the ALOX™ plate are bent upwards, and side panels are affixed to the ALOX™ plate to create a box that supports a Fresnel lens that directs sunlight to each of the cells (e.g. nine) mounted on the ALOX™ plate. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100326493 | PHOTOVOLTAIC APPARATUS UTILIZING INTERNAL REFLECTION - A photovoltaic apparatus comprising: a semi-transparent photovoltaic panel to absorb a portion of the photons and to produce electrical energy, wherein the panel has a first conducting surface on the top thereof facing upwards and a second conducting surface at the bottom thereof facing downwards; and a bottom mirror and a top mirror to reflect the remaining photons from the photovoltaic panel, whereby the remaining photons bounce up and down between the top and bottom mirrors to increase production of the electrical energy. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100326494 | SOLAR CELL, CONCENTRATING SOLAR POWER GENERATION MODULE, AND SOLAR CELL MANUFACTURING METHOD - A solar cell according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a solar cell element that photoelectrically converts sunlight Ls, and a columnar optical member having an incidence surface on which sunlight Ls concentrated by a concentrating lens is incident and an irradiation surface that irradiates sunlight Ls to the solar cell element, a side surface of the columnar optical member being inclined relative to a perpendicular direction such that sunlight Ls incident from the incidence surface is reflected in a direction of the irradiation surface. In the solar cell, a minimum concentrated light beam region FLRs where a concentrated light beam region FLR formed by the concentrated sunlight Ls is minimized is configured to be located inside the columnar optical member. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100326495 | Self-cleaning protective coatings for use with photovoltaic cells - Systems and materials to improve photovoltaic cell efficiency by implementing a self-cleaning function on photovoltaic cells and on albedo surfaces associated with photovoltaic cell assemblies are provided. Materials for protecting albedo surfaces that surround photovoltaic cell assemblies, thereby maximizing energy input into the photovoltaic cell assemblies, are provided. Materials for self-cleaning photovoltaic cell panels, thereby maintaining their efficiency, are provided. Portable albedo collecting devices associated with photovoltaic cell assemblies are provided. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20110000522 | SOLAR COLLECTOR STABILIZED BY CABLES AND A COMPRESSION ELEMENT - A solar collector system including solar elements connected to form an array for intercepting the sun's radiation, a compression element that is positioned substantially perpendicular to the array, and pairs of cables that run from opposite sides of the array to the compression element to mutually stabilize each portion of the array to which the pair of cables connects. A support structure is provided for securing the array to a fixed structure. A tracking system further provides the system with two degrees of freedom for tracking the array with the sun's movement. | 01-06-2011 |
| 20110000523 | SOLAR BATTERY MODULE - It is an object of the present invention to easily and inexpensively provide a structure of effectively utilizing a light incident on an invalid area of a solar cell. Moreover, it is another object to improve output characteristics of the solar cell by effectively utilizing the light. The gist of the present invention resides in a solar battery module in which plate-like solar cells are held between a light penetrable sheet member on a light receiving surface side and a sheet member on a back surface side, and internal apertures are filled. with a sealing resin, wherein a light diffusion section for diffusely reflecting a light or a light diffusion section of a white color is arranged in an invalid region of each solar cell. | 01-06-2011 |
| 20110005574 | Sleeve for protecting a wire of a solar cell module - A solar cell module includes a plurality of solar cells, a plurality of wire units and a plurality a plurality of lenses over the solar cells for focusing light into light spots on the solar cells. Each of the wire units includes a wire for interconnecting two adjacent ones of the solar cells and a sleeve for receiving and protecting the wire from heat. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110005575 | Back reflector for photovoltaic devices - This invention relates generally to thin-film photovoltaic devices, and more specifically to an improved back reflector structure of multiple material layers for being used in thin-film photovoltaic devices. More particularly, the invention is to provide an enhanced back reflector having a texture, a high reflectivity, a high yield, and a long lifetime stability which can be applied into thin-film silicon based photovoltaic devices. The back reflector structure consists of (i) a first textured metal or alloy layer (hereinafter referred to as a first metal layer), such as aluminum (Al), formed on a metal (such as stainless steel) or polymer (such as Kapton) substrate, (ii) a thin oxide or nitride barrier layer (hereinafter referred to as a first barrier layer), such as zinc oxide (ZnO), formed on the first metal layer, (iii) a second reflective metal or alloy layer (hereinafter referred to as a second metal layer), such as silver (Ag), formed on the first barrier layer, (iv) a transparent oxide or nitride barrier layer (hereinafter referred to as a second barrier layer), such as zinc oxide, formed on the second metal layer. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110005576 | PERSONAL SOLAR APPLIANCE - A personal solar appliance (PSA) is presented that collects and stores solar energy. The PSA may be resilient enough to suffer all the knocks of extended human use and to have extensive exposure to the elements. Further, the PSA may be waterproof and provide thermal cooling. As such, some embodiments of the PSA includes a base with ventilation holes; a heat sink coupled to the base; a solar cell mounted to the heat sink opposite the base; a printed circuit board mounted to the heat sink opposite the solar cell; and a battery mounted to the base. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110005577 | LOW CONCENTRATION SOLAR PLANT AND METHOD FOR MAXIMIZING THE ELECTRICITY PRODUCTION OF THE PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES THEREOF - Low concentration solar plant and method for maximizing the electricity production of the photovoltaic modules thereof, that uses a combination of tracking and low concentration solar technologies for maximizing the electricity production of conventional photovoltaic modules, the system used to protect the modules being any method designed to protect photovoltaic modules from the damage they may suffer when subjected to very high intensity solar radiation. Preferably, to avoid possible damage, the invention proposes a temperature measurement and/or control system that assists a mechanism for defocusing the photovoltaic modules when said radiation reaches a predetermined level. The invention is applicable to photovoltaic solar electricity production. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110011442 | Insulating Device of Concentration Photovoltaic Heat Sink - A heat sink has a number of fixing frames. The fixing frames are soldered with of solar cell devices. And, the fixing frames are defined with insulating ink. Hence, the fixing frames can be used for insulating and locating the of a solar cell devices. Besides, with the insulating ink, solar cells of the solar cell devices are prevented from being contacted with the heat sink. As a result, a good electrical property is obtained on assembling and using the solar cell devices. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110011443 | SOLAR BATTERY MODULE AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - A solar battery module is provided comprising a light-transmissive substrate, a solar battery formed over a first surface of the light-transmissive substrate, and a first reflective section which is made of the same material as an electrode forming a part of the solar battery, which is provided over a second surface of the light-transmissive substrate, and which reflects light from the side of the substrate. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110011444 | BACKSKIN MATERIAL FOR SOLAR ENERGY MODULES - A solar energy module includes one or more solar cells, each having a front side for receiving light and an opposite back side. An encapsulant material covers at least the front side of each of the solar cells. The solar energy module also includes a backskin layer formed from a cross-linked mixture of high density polyethylene (HDPE) and acid copolymer bonded to the back side of each of the solar cells. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110011445 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH PATTERNED GLASS CONCENTRATOR - The present invention provides a photovoltaic device having an optical component that is capable of concentrating solar energy and method of making the same. More specifically, the present invention provides for an on-line produced patterned glass component that is capable of concentrating solar energy and allows for significantly less photovoltaic material to be used in a photovoltaic device. The present invention also provides for an on-line method of making the patterned glass and a method for making a photovoltaic device incorporating the patterned glass described herein. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110017263 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR FABRICATING A SOLAR CELL USING AN INTERFACE PATTERN FOR A PACKAGED DESIGN - A method and device of fabricating a photovoltaic strip. The method includes providing a photovoltaic cell having a front surface and a back surface and forming a first grid pattern on the front surface and second grid pattern on the back surface. The first grid pattern includes a first plurality of strip columns in parallel in a first direction and a plurality of grid lines in parallel in a second direction perpendicularly crossing the first plurality of strip columns. The second grid pattern includes a plurality of blocks separated by a plurality of streets parallel in the second direction and a second plurality of strip columns parallel in the first direction. The method further includes dicing the photovoltaic cell along the plurality of streets into a plurality of photovoltaic strips. Each of the plurality of photovoltaic strips includes at least one of the plurality of grid lines. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017264 | THERMAL MANAGEMENT METHOD AND DEVICE FOR SOLAR CONCENTRATOR SYSTEMS - A photovoltaic device. The photovoltaic device includes a photovoltaic region including a surface region and characterized by a first thermal expansion constant. The surface region includes a first portion and a second portion, the second portion includes a first edge region and a second edge region. The photovoltaic device includes a concentrator element comprising substantially of a polymer material and being characterized by a second thermal expansion constant. The concentrator element includes an aperture region and an exit region. The photovoltaic device includes an elastomer material to couple the first portion of the surface region of the photovoltaic region to the exit region of the concentrator element, while the first edge region and the second edge region remain exposed. The first edge region and the second edge region allow for compensation by at least thermal expansion of the concentrator element for a change in temperature ranging from about −45 Degrees Celsius to about 95 Degrees Celsius to maintain the exit region to be optically coupled to the photovoltaic region. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017265 | Photovoltaic module with conductive cooling and enhanced reflection - A thermally conductive material is provided adjacent to or close to the active light-absorbing surface in silicon PV modules made with x-Si or p-Si cells or in thin film PV modules. The material is characterized by high thermal conduction and emissivity as well as high reflectance with respect to the solar spectrum. An exterior portion of the thermally conductive material is wrapped around the rearward facing, shaded surface of the PV module, thereby defining a thermal gradient for conduction of heat from the interior of the PV module to the cooler exterior, where heat is dissipated into the ambient surroundings. The thermally conductive, highly reflective material may be incorporated in or otherwise integrated with a lamination material used to adhere the back sheet to the front sheet of a thin film PV module. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017266 | Thin film photovoltaic module having a lamination layer for enhanced reflection and photovoltaic output - An improved thin film PV module and simplified fabrication process are provided that achieve higher PV module efficiency, while eliminating expensive process steps, and reducing the capital cost of thin film processing equipment. A lamination material, characterized by high reflectivity as well as thermal conductivity and emissivity, is provided directly adjacent the active region of a thin film stack, eliminating the need for complex sputtering or deposition process steps ordinarily required for providing a reflective layer. The lamination material reflects unabsorbed light back into the thin film stack thereby increasing photocurrent generation, and obviating the need for a reflective metallization layer. The lamination layer and back sheet for sealing the light-absorbing stack against the ingress of moisture also can be applied in a single process step. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017267 | RECEIVER FOR CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC-THERMAL SYSTEM - Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein. Examples of solar energy receivers are disclosed that may be used to collect concentrated solar radiation. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017268 | Transparent polymer materials for encapsulation of optical devices and photovoltaic module that uses this polymer - Flexible optically transparent nano structured polymer material is based on the composition that includes the derivatives of polyurethanes, hardening agent, antistatic additive and modifiers. The structure of polymer includes nano and micro-domains and clusters of various sizes and configurations that are located in a certain order in the volume of the polymer and play the role of micro lenses that provide the concentration of the light and to concentration of light on the optical device and strengthen wave of optical radiation. The transparent polymer laminated, encapsulated or coated of incident light-facing surface of optical devices including the photovoltaic modules and imparts higher conversion efficiencies to photovoltaic modules, a high optical transparency, is resistant to the humidity and destructive effects of UV, has a good adhesion to the surface of the optical devices, and a good stability to deformation. The transparent polymer materials can be used to increase conversion efficiency of mono-crystalline, multi-crystalline and nana-crystalline, as well as amorphous silicon and based on non-silicon systems such as CIGS solar cells, DSSC and organic. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017269 | Solar Concentrator Configuration With Improved Manufacturability And Efficiency - A solar concentrator comprises a pair of concentric reflectors having a spindle toroid geometry for focusing the collected solar radiation into a ring-shaped focal area, as opposed to the “point” or “line” focus of prior art configurations. In a preferred embodiment, each reflector is formed of a plurality of curved petals that are disposed in a contiguous, keystone arrangement that requires no additional fixturing to hold the petals in place. Such an arrangement reduces the weight, complexity and cost of the final solar concentrator structure. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017270 | SOLAR TRACKING DEVICE FOR SOLAR CELLS - A solar tracking device for solar cells includes a supporting unit, a moving unit, a solar receiving unit, and a light sensing unit. The supporting unit has a supporting portion and a rotating portion, and the supporting portion is rotated by the rotating portion. The moving unit is supported by the supporting portion of the supporting unit, and the moving unit is capable of moving along an XY-axis plane. The solar receiving unit is disposed at the moving unit. The light sensing unit is disposed at the moving unit and outputs a light sensing signal. The solar tracking device for solar cells can reduce energy consumption and improve output efficiency of a solar power system during a solar tracking period. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017271 | THIN FILM SOLAR CELL AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - A thin film solar cell including a substrate, a first conductive layer, a photoelectric conversion layer, a second conductive layer and a passivation layer is provided. The first conductive layer disposed on the substrate has a plurality of first openings, so as to divide the first conductive layer into bottom electrodes of a plurality of photovoltaic elements. The photoelectric conversion layer disposed on the first conductive layer has a plurality of second openings. The second conductive layer is disposed on the photoelectric conversion layer and electrically connected to the first conductive layer through the second openings. The passivation layer is disposed on the sidewall of the photoelectric conversion layer, so that the second conductive layer in the second openings is electrically isolated from the photoelectric conversion layer. A manufacturing method of the thin film solar cell is also provided. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017272 | TRANSPARENT SUBSTRATE COMPRISING AN ANTIREFLECTION COATING - The subject of the invention is a transparent substrate ( | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017273 | Concentrated Solar Heating - A system for concentrating solar energy comprising a collector consisting of a number of reflective panels, a receiver which absorbs reflected energy, a working fluid which absorbs the energy, a highly transmissive cover and internal colorings or coatings to collect indirect radiation, and a solar tracking system to maintain reflector orientation. Optional photo-voltaic panels could also be used for providing electrical energy and are kept at near ambient temperatures. Under normal conditions, solar energy is concentrated by reflectors on the receiver, which transfers the energy to a working fluid which is then used for either hot water heating, desiccant drying for a solar air conditioner, or as a power source. Additional energy is collected from indirect sources using the greenhouse effect. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017274 | Large Tracking-Type Fresnel Lens Point-Focusing Solar System - The invention provides a large trailing-type Fresnel lens point-focusing solar power system, it comprises a box body, a point-focusing glass matrix Fresnel lens, a reflecting low-radiation glass, a photovoltaic component, a high-temperature heat accumulator and a tracker. The point-focusing glass Fresnel lens, the reflecting low-radiation glass and the photovoltaic component are arranged in proper sequence from up to down, and respectively arranged on the upper part, the middle part and the low part of the box body. The high-temperature heat accumulator is positioned on the point-focusing glass matrix Fresnel lens. The high-temperature heat accumulator is fixed and arranged on a transverse bracket connected with the box body. The box body is arranged on the tracker, and traces the sun by the drive of the tracker. The invention relates to a trailing and spotlighting technique and a sunlight selective transmission technique, it is a high-efficiency clean photoelectric and photothermic utilization method. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017275 | SOLAR PANEL BACK SHEET WITH IMPROVED HEAT DISSIPATION - The present invention discloses a solar panel comprising a front sheet, a back sheet and a photovoltaic circuit between the front and back sheets, wherein back sheet has an outer layer having a first surface and a second surface wherein the first surface faces the environment and has protrusions and the second surface is adjacent to the photovoltaic circuit. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110017276 | SUN TRACKER DEVICE - A sun tracker device includes a base frame provided with a track that is at least in part circular; a support structure, of at least one photoreceiver module, the support structure being slidably associated with the track and including a reference plane for the coupling to the at least one photoreceiver module; a first motor group for controlling the movement of the support structure on the track around a substantially vertical axis; and at least one movement member of the at least one photoreceiver module around a respective substantially horizontal axis. The reference plane is tilted, with respect to a support plane of the device, by an angle of predetermined amplitude. An optimal compromise is achieved between maximisation of the energy yield and minimisation of the device size, at the same time ensuring an easy access to the components of the device for the maintenance operations. | 01-27-2011 |
| 20110023936 | Concentrating unit of a photovoltaic apparatus - A concentrating unit includes a concentrator and two supporting elements. The concentrator includes an incident end from which the sunlight goes into the concentrator, an exit end from which the sunlight leaves the concentrator and a reflective surface between the incident end and the exit end for the reflecting and hence concentrating the sunlight while the sunlight is traveling through the concentrator. Each of the supporting elements includes an upright section extended from the concentrator and a horizontal section extended from the upright section for attachment to a solar cell module. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110023937 | SOLAR ENERGY CONVERTER ASSEMBLY INCORPORATING DISPLAY SYSTEM AND METHOD OF FABRICATING THE SAME - According to one embodiment, a display system disclosed herein includes louver elements adjacent to a light-receiving surface of a solar energy converter. Each louver element includes a display surface and a non-display surface. The display surfaces of the louver elements at least partially obstruct a view of the light-receiving surface. Light is reflectable off the non-display surfaces of the louver elements to the light-receiving surface. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110023938 | SOLAR POWER PLANT - A solar array in the form of a photovoltaic installation comprises a plurality of interspaced solar modules. Also provided, at a distance from the solar modules ( | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110023939 | PORTABLE SOLAR CELL APPARATUS - A portable solar cell apparatus includes a base, a plurality of solar cell units, a light guide element, and a plurality of lens units. The solar cell units are disposed at the base. The light guide element has a plurality of integrally formed funnel-shaped light guide units. The light guide element is disposed at the base, and each of the funnel-shaped light guide units guides light to the respective solar cell unit. Each of the lens units is disposed at the respective funnel-shaped light guide unit. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110023940 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION SYSTEM - In one aspect of the present invention, a solar energy collection system that includes multiple longitudinally adjacent collectors is described. The collectors are coupled end to end to form a collector row. The collector row extends along a longitudinal axis and is arranged to rotate about a pivot axis to track the sun in at least one dimension. Each collector includes a reflector, one or more solar receivers and a support structure. The support structure includes a tube assembly that underlies the reflector. The tube assemblies of the collector row are arranged end to end along the longitudinal axis. There is a space between the tube assemblies of adjacent collectors in the collector row, where the reflectors of the adjacent collectors extend beyond the underlying tube assemblies to form a substantially continuous reflective surface over the space. A coupling device is positioned in the space between the tube assemblies. The coupling device connects and helps to rotate the tube assemblies of the adjacent collectors. Some embodiments relate to various types of coupling devices and collector arrangements. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110023941 | ULTRA-EFFICIENT ENERGY CONVERSION DEVICE FOR CONVERTING LIGHT TO ELECTRICITY BY RECTIFYING SURFACE PLASMON POLARITONS - An ultra-efficient device for converting light into electricity has a dielectric medium for input light propagation, a metallic medium having an array of surface-plasmon-polariton (SPP) resonator cavities formed at nano-scale and distributed in the metallic medium below the dielectric-metal interface, each nano-scale resonator cavity having a hollow interior as a metal cathode in which a metal anode is disposed, another metallic medium electrically coupled to the anode, and another dielectric medium insulating the anode medium from the cathode medium. In each cavity, the cathode is shaped, dimensioned and spaced from the anode so that standing waves of SPP excitations generated by the input light cause quantum field emission of electrons to be rectified as an electrical output. The SPP resonator cavities may be formed in a plurality of diametral sizes corresponding to component light wavelengths to allow full spectrum energy conversion of broadband light input. High energy conversion efficiencies up to a theoretical maximum of 84% can be obtained. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110030762 | ENERGY CONCENTRATION DEVICE OF UNITED REFLECTION WITH MULTILEVEL SOLAR CELL ARRAY - The present invention relates to an energy concentration device of united reflection with multilevel solar cell array comprising: a housing and solar cell parts, which are multilevel arrayed inside or outside the housing in such a way that the part of collected sunlight is absorbed in each level and then the rest of unabsorbed sunlight is absorbed overall from multilevel of solar cells in the iterating process of reflecting sunlight on the surfaces of solar cell parts. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110030763 | Solar Panel Apparatus Created By Laser Etched Gratings on Glass Substrate - The present invention fabrication method and apparatus provides a method of creating holographic configurations in a specific pattern in glass panels using a laser that does not use chemicals or chemical solutions. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110030764 | PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL ASSEMBLY - Provided is a photovoltaic cell assembly that effectively collects light and dissipates heat to improve electricity generating efficiency. The photovoltaic cell assembly includes a light collecting unit configured to collect sunlight incident from a Fresnel lens, a cell receiver configured to convert the sunlight collected by the light collecting unit to an electrical signal, a heat dissipation plate configured to support the light collecting unit and the cell receiver and fixed to an inner surface of a housing, and a heat dissipation block disposed on an outer surface of the housing and coupled to the heat dissipation plate with the housing interposed between the heat dissipation plate and the heat dissipation block. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110030765 | CONCENTRATING OPTICAL MEMBER AND CONCENTRATING SOLAR POWER GENERATION MODULE - A concentrating optical member ( | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110041892 | Heat sink system for large-size photovoltaic receiver - An invention proposes a heat sink system for large-size photovoltaic receivers of tower-type solar power stations with application of an array of heliostats intended to concentrate solar radiation on the photovoltaic receiver. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110041893 | Solar light utilizing systems and solar light devices having the same - Solar light utilizing systems and solar devices are provided, the solar light utilizing system includes a main body portion, a solar light collecting unit associated with the main body portion and a tracking unit configured to change an orientation of the solar light collecting unit by moving a center of mass of the solar light utilizing system. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110041894 | Method and Apparatus to Lower Cost Per Watt with Concentrated Linear Solar Panel - The present invention proposes a hybrid methodology and apparatus between photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) solar panels to lower the photovoltaic solar energy production cost. In particular, the disclosed methodology addresses a simple quasi-parabolic trough PV (QPTPV) low concentration system with greater tolerance to tracker pointing errors. The quasi-parabolic trough (QPT) reflector is defocused to cover the width of a linear solar cells array, which is reduced from a large rectangular solar cells panel. In summary, the QPTPV system consists of low cost quasi-parabolic reflectors, a compact linear PV cells array and a lower cost relaxed pointing 2-axes tracker. The combination of these low cost technologies disclosed can achieve the lowest cost per kilowatt hour of photovoltaic energy production. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110048495 | Photovoltaic module containing a metal/polymer stack for enhanced cooling and reflection - A method and apparatus for efficiently cooling a PV module for converting solar radiation to electrical energy comprises a means for defining a thermally conductive path characterized by a steep thermal gradient (delta T) provided interiorly, adjacent the back surface of the solar cells and having opposite ends extending exteriorly around at least a portion of a back facing exterior surface of the PV module. Heat developed from the solar cells is efficiently conducted away from the solar cells along the steep thermal gradient to the exterior shaded surface of the PV module where heat is quickly dissipated to the ambient surroundings. The invention applies to both polycrystalline and single crystalline, as well as to thin film PV modules. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048496 | SOLAR REFLECTOR - In one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a solar reflector assembly comprising a corrugated support structure and a reflector panel. The support structure includes a plurality of support panels each having a generally U or V-shaped cross-section. The support panels are interlocked and connected to a lower facing surface of the reflector panel which is designed to reflect and concentrate light energy. The solar reflector assembly of this embodiment may further comprises a solar absorber in the form of a pipe and/or including photovoltaic strip for collecting the concentrated the light energy. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048497 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR POWER GENERATION UNIT AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A CONCENTRATING SOLAR POWER GENERATION UNIT - A concentrating solar power generation unit | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048498 | LOW COST SOLAR CELL - A solar module ( | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048499 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - Disclosed is a photovoltaic device. The photovoltaic device includes a substrate; a first unit cell disposed on the substrate and comprising a p-type window layer, an i-type photoelectric conversion layer and an n-type layer; an intermediate reflector disposed on the first unit cell and comprising a hydrogenated n-type microcrystalline silicon carbide or a hydrogenated n-type microcrystalline silicon nitride profiled such that carbon concentration or nitride concentration is higher the farther it is from a light incident side; and a second unit cell disposed on the intermediate reflector and comprising a p-type window layer, an i-type photoelectric conversion layer and an n-type layer. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048500 | PHOTOVOLTAIC CONCENTRATION MODULE AND DEVICE - The invention relates to a photovoltaic concentration module and device. The device includes: a primary lens ( | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048501 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - The invention relates to a solar cell module comprising at least two assemblies (SCA) which are connected to each other and have solar cells and also a module base plate comprising an electrically conductive carrier structure and a rear-side plate which is electrically insulated at least on the side orientated towards the carrier structure. The assembly comprising the solar cell is thereby particularly small with respect to dimensioning, which leads to low material consumption of heat sink material, e.g. copper and aluminium, and hence enables particularly economical production. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110056538 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - Disclosed is a method for manufacturing a photovoltaic device. The method includes: forming a first electrode on a substrate; forming a first unit cell converting light into electricity on the first electrode; forming an intermediate reflector on the first unit cell, the intermediate reflector including metallic nanoparticles arranged therein; and forming a second unit cell converting light into electricity on the intermediate reflector. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110061716 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - Disclosed is a method for manufacturing a photovoltaic device. The method comprising: forming a first electrode on a substrate; forming a first unit cell on the first electrode, the first unit cell comprising an intrinsic semiconductor layer; forming an intermediate reflector on the first unit cell, the intermediate reflector comprises a plurality of sub-layers stacked alternately by modulating applied voltages in accordance with time, the applied voltages exciting plasma and having mutually different frequencies; forming a second unit cell on the intermediate reflector, the second unit cell comprising an intrinsic semiconductor layer; and forming a second electrode on the second unit cell. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110061717 | SOLAR CELL APPARATUS USING MICROLENS AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SAME - Provided are a solar cell apparatus and a method of manufacturing the same. More particularly, a high efficiency, inexpensive and large-area solar cell apparatus using a microlens, and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The solar cell apparatus includes a plate on which a plurality of lenses are arranged on one surface, and a plurality of solar cells receiving light concentrated by the lenses. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110061718 | Passively Cooled Solar Concentrating Photovoltaic Device - A Cassegrain-type concentrating solar collector cell includes primary and secondary mirrors disposed on opposing convex and concave surfaces of a light-transparent (e.g., glass) optical element. Light enters an aperture surface surrounding the secondary mirror, and is reflected by the primary mirror toward the secondary mirror, which re-reflects the light onto a photovoltaic cell. The photovoltaic cell is mounted on a central portion of heat spreader that extends over the primary mirror. The heat spreader transmits waste heat from the photovoltaic cell in a manner that evenly distributes the heat over the optical element, thereby maximizing the radiation of heat from the aperture surface into space. The heat spreader includes a thick copper layer formed on a flexible substrate (e.g., polyimide film) that is patterned with radial arms that facilitate mounting onto the convex surface of the optical element. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110061719 | SOLAR ELECTRICITY GENERATION SYSTEM - A solar electricity generation system including a solar energy-to-electricity converter having a solar energy receiving surface including at least an electricity-generating solar energy receiving surface and a plurality of reflectors arranged to reflect solar energy directly onto the solar energy receiving surface, each of the plurality of reflectors having a reflecting surface which is configured and located and aligned with respect to the solar energy receiving surface to reflect specular solar radiation with a high degree of uniformity onto the solar energy receiving surface, the configuration, location and alignment of each of the reflectors being such that the geometrical projection of each reflecting surface is substantially coextensive with the electricity-generating solar energy receiving surface. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110061720 | LAMINATE - This invention provides a layered product which is high in light reflectance, provided with a white color, and is small in thermal deformation and excellent in heat resistance, and further, is difficult to hydrolyze and excellent in weatherability even when used outside for a long time, difficult to crack and excellent in flexibility even in a form of film, good in processability, productivity and handleability, and prevented from curling. The layered product comprises a resin layer (B) as a base layer, a resin layer (A) layered on one side of the layer (B), and a resin layer (C) layered on the other side of the resin layer (B), wherein a thickness (H | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110067747 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE AND POWER MODULE - A concentrated photovoltaic module includes a carrier, a plurality of side plates coupled to the carrier and having a plurality of openings, and a light-collecting unit having a lens assembly disposed above the carrier and a solar cell assembly disposed below the carrier. A receiving space is defined and formed by the carrier, the side plates, and the light-collecting unit. Water vapor, which might otherwise adversely affect photoelectric conversion taking place in the solar cell assembly when trapped inside the receiving space, is discharged from the receiving space through the openings, thereby reducing the possibility of damaging the solar cell assembly and prolonging the service life the photovoltaic module. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110067748 | SOLAR SYSTEM - The present invention relates to a solar system comprising a plurality of solar modules, particularly photovoltaic modules, characterized in that the solar modules are arranged at least two different angles of inclination relative to a flat, particularly horizontal, base area, for instance a flat roof. According to a variant the present invention further relates to a solar system having a plurality of solar modules, wherein a reflecting element is arranged between two solar modules. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110067749 | SOLAR ARRAY SUPPORT STRUCTURE - Disclosed herein is a solar array support structure that includes a mounting structure extending a length and configured to receive a solar array. The solar array support structure further includes a support column extending from the mounting structure into a ground. Moreover, the solar array support structure includes a lateral force resistance component in communication with the support column in the ground, the lateral force resistance component being dimensioned to reduce pressure on the ground from a force transmitted by the support column in a first direction and a second opposite direction more so than any other two opposite directions located in the same plane as the first and second opposite directions. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110067750 | TRACKING SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION SYSTEM, AND TRACKING CONTROL METHOD AND TRACKING SHIFT CORRECTION METHOD FOR TRACKING SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION SYSTEM - According to one embodiment, a tracking drive solar photovoltaic power generator ( | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110073158 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE AND POWER SUPPLY APPARATUS THEREOF - A power supply apparatus includes a first carrier and a second carrier connected with each other through a plurality of supporting rods, a plurality of light collecting units disposed on the second carrier, and an actuating rod group movably disposed on the first carrier. The light collecting units each have an upper portion pivotally connected to the second carrier and a lower portion pivotally connected to the actuating rod group. When the actuating rod group moves, the lower portion of each of the light collecting units swings about the upper portion with an amplitude corresponding to the position of the sun such that a lens assembly on each of the light collecting units faces the sunlight, thereby enhancing the light collecting efficiency. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110073159 | Heat Dissipating Device and Module Using Same - The present invention relates to a heat dissipating device adapted for use in combination with a module provided with a mounting board. The heat dissipating device has a metallic heat-dissipating member including a body and a number of spaced-apart heat dissipating fins extending upwardly from the upper surface of the body. The body is formed at its central portion with a through hole adapted for receiving a protrusion block protruding from a back surface of the mounting board of the module opposite to a mounting surface on which electrical devices are mounted. The heat dissipating device further includes a pump unit, a fluid conduit and a fan unit disposed on the heat dissipating fins. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110073160 | RADIANT ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM - A radiant energy concentrating or collimating system comprising an enclosure that shields its contents from environmental effects while allowing radiant energy to transmit through its top window; a plurality of energy concentrating or collimating assemblies, each on its own pivot mechanism and each comprising a plurality of optics, a support structure and an energy conversion device that is mounted on a heat dissipating structure; a drive mechanism controlled by a microprocessor to rotate the said energy concentrating or collimating assemblies on two orthogonal axes in unison so the assemblies are oriented towards desired direction at any given time. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110073161 | HIGH EFFICIENCY COUNTERBALANCED DUAL AXIS SOLAR TRACKING ARRAY FRAME SYSTEM - A high efficiency, environmentally friendly system comprising a plurality of photovoltaic solar collecting panels (PV panels) is disclosed. The system comprises an outer frame to which a plurality of inner frames are mounted to which the plurality of PV panels are attached. To minimize shadowing by the outer frame upon one or more PV panels, at least one PV panel may extend beyond an endpoint of the main frame. The system also comprises an outer frame rotation actuator that rotates the outer frame and an inner frame rotation actuator that rotates the inner frames and the plurality of PV panels. The solar tracking array frames disclosed herein help to improve the quality of the environment by conserving a variety of energy resources (e.g., fossil fuels, hydroelectric energy, etc.) The solar tracking array frames disclosed herein also help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as solar tracking array frames do not produce carbon dioxide byproducts. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110073162 | SUBSTRATE FOR THIN-FILM PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE, THIN-FILM PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE INCLUDING THE SAME, AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING SUBSTRATE FOR THIN-FILM PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE - Provided is a substrate for a thin-film photoelectric conversion device which makes it possible to produce the device having improved characteristics at low cost and high productivity. The substrate includes a transparent base member, with a transparent underlying layer and a transparent electrode layer successively stacked on one main surface of the transparent base member. The underlying layer includes transparent insulating fine particles and transparent binder, and the particles are dispersed to cover the one main surface with a coverage factor of particles—ranging from 30% or more to less than 80%. An antireflection layer is provided on the other main surface of the transparent base. The antireflection layer includes transparent insulating fine particles and transparent binder, and the particles are dispersed to cover the other main surface with a coverage factor greater than the underlying layer. The transparent electrode layer contains zinc oxide deposited by low-pressure CVD method. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110079266 | Intelligent Solar Energy Collection System with a Dedicated Control Device - A solar energy collection system is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of solar panels and a control device. The panel further comprises a plurality of solar modules, a supporting, pivoting and tilting mechanism, a controller and a short range communication unit. The control device further comprises an orientation detector for determining the optimized orientation of a panel towards the sun for receiving maximum sun radiation. According to one of the embodiments of the present invention, the orientation detector is an illumination detector on a top surface of a panel controlled by a pivoting and tilting mechanism of the control device. The control device further comprises a communication unit. The communication units from the solar panels and from the control device form an ad hoc communication network. The optimized orientation determined by the control device may be transmitted to the solar panels through the ad hoc communication network. The control device may also communicate with a server connected to an existing communication network such as the Internet. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110079267 | LENS SYSTEM WITH DIRECTIONAL RAY SPLITTER FOR CONCENTRATING SOLAR ENERGY - A concentration system or solar concentrator for supplying concentrated solar energy. The system includes a lens array with linear lenses focusing light received on an outer surface onto a number of focal point or focused lines of light. The system includes a light wafer with a substantially planar body formed of a thickness of a light transmissive material. The body includes a top surface facing the lens array and receiving the focused light from at least one the linear lens and further includes a bottom surface opposite the top surface. The light wafer includes a ray splitter, in the form of a triangular air gap, paired to each linear lens at or near a focal point of the paired lens to direct the received focused light into the body or towards edges or sides of the body where a solar collector such as a thermal or photovoltaic collector is positioned. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110079268 | SOLAR COLLECTOR AND CONVERSION ARRAY - A solar array for collecting sunlight that is converted into electricity. The array includes an arrangement of solar collectors strategically positioned on a frame to maximize the amount of sunlight collected in relation to the size of the array. The collectors are plate like members with a reflective side and shaped so that sunlight collected by the reflective side is concentrated at a location away from the reflective side. The collectors are recumbently positioned in rows with their respective reflective sides directed away from the array frame. The collectors are spaced apart so that no collector casts shade on any part of another collector and substantially no sunlight between adjacent collectors. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110079269 | NON-PARABOLIC SOLAR CONCENTRATION TO AN AREA OF CONTROLLED FLUX DENSITY CONVERSION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A solar conversion system with a solar collector that is shaped to focus reflected sunlight along an area with a substantially constant flux density. The area shape can be resemble a rectangular, square, circular, or other shape. Included with the system is a solar conversion module having a photovoltaic cell that is alignable with the area. The cell converts the focused reflected sunlight into electrical energy when aligned with the area. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110079270 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL - There is disclosed a concentrator solar cell, having one or more radially elongate bus bars extending into a central region of the cell for collecting current from gridlines. Each bus bar terminates in a separate bond pad region at a periphery of the device. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110083720 | Concentrator photovoltaics device with positioning aid - The invention relates to a photovoltaics device for directly converting solar energy to electric power. Said device comprises a housing ( | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110083721 | CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - A solar cell concentrating apparatus includes a parabolic or similar reflector focusing a beam of light on an array of photovoltaic cells to generate electric current. The reflector includes a large number of hexagonal mirrors each provided with an infra red reflective coating. A suitable reflective coating material is aluminum oxide, but a number of others are well known. Further aspects of the apparatus include use of a Fourier transform lens to alter an intensity profile of the light beam incident on the solar cells, and/or a beam altering device including a bundle of optical fibers that are interleaved and of varying lengths, for the same purpose. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110083722 | TEXTURED METALLIC BACK REFLECTOR - Embodiments of the invention generally relate to device fabrication of thin films used as solar devices or other electronic devices, and include textured back reflectors utilized in solar applications. In one embodiment, a method for forming a textured metallic back reflector which includes depositing a metallic layer on a gallium arsenide material within a thin film stack, forming an array of metallic islands from the metallic layer during an annealing process, removing or etching material from the gallium arsenide material to form apertures between the metallic islands, and depositing a metallic reflector layer to fill the apertures and cover the metallic islands. In another embodiment, a textured metallic back reflector includes an array of metallic islands disposed on a gallium arsenide material, a plurality of apertures disposed between the metallic islands and extending into the gallium arsenide material, a metallic reflector layer disposed over the metallic islands, and a plurality of reflector protrusions formed between the metallic islands and extending from the metallic reflector layer and into the apertures formed in the gallium arsenide material. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110083723 | SOLAR ENERGY REFLECTOR AND ASSEMBLY - A reflector | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110088751 | NON-IMAGING RADIANT ENERGY CONCENTRATOR - The invention is a radiant energy trap. As a solar collector it can combine diffuse light concentration and hybrid electric and thermal conversion. A refractor comprises a plurality of non-imaging concentrators, each interfaced with a corresponding receiver, adjacent to a reflector, which can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, with optically independent or dependant sections. The refractor can be a composite of layers, solid or nested fluid layers. The fluid can be a transparent refractive component or be optically independent from the refractive function of the invention and can flow through the refractor as a thermal transfer medium. The refractor can selectively direct radiant energy without reducing the collectors angle of acceptance (AOA) of ambient radiant energy, can take advantage of total internal reflection and can be thermally isolated. The invention has a relatively high concentration (CR) of diffuse light when the AOA is equivalent to that of a flat panel collector. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110088752 | Photoelectric Energy Transducing Apparatus - The invention discloses a photoelectric energy transducing apparatus, which includes a photoelectric energy transducing module and a semiconductor switch. The photoelectric energy transducing module includes a photoelectric energy transducing semiconductor structure, a first positive electrode, and a negative electrode. The semiconductor switch includes a second positive electrode and a second negative electrode. The second positive electrode is electrically connected to the first negative electrode. The second negative electrode is electrically connected to the first positive electrode. When light radiates onto the photoelectric energy transducing semiconductor structure, an electromotive force is induced between the first positive electrode and the first negative electrode, and the electromotive force provides a reverse bias on the semiconductor switch so that the semiconductor switch is cut off. Thereby, when several photoelectric energy transducing apparatuses are used in series, the entire in-series circuit is still conductible even if one or some of the photoelectric energy transducing apparatuses are damaged. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110088753 | Solar Energy Converter and Method for Converting Solar Energy - The solar energy converter for generating electric energy and heated fluid comprises a multi-layer assembly, a photovoltaic panel and a manifold assembly. The multi-layer assembly is a casing and comprises N layers separated by at least one separator floor, each layer has at least one channel adapted to contain a fluid stream, and each layer has a first opening and a second opening. The photovoltaic panel has a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface of the photovoltaic panel contacts the multi-layer assembly. The manifold assembly comprises N passages for containing the fluid streams, the Kth passage is adapted to distribute the fluid stream to be heated into the channel of the Kth layer through the corresponding first opening and collect the heated fluid stream from the channel of the Kth layer through the corresponding second opening, wherein N is a positive integer, K is a positive integer less than or equal to N. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110088754 | POLYURETHANE COATINGS FOR THERMALLY REGULATING AND THE USE THEREOF - The present invention relates to a polyurethane coating having pipes or hoses having a diameter of ≦95% of the thickness of the polyurethane coating, through which a medium for heat exchange flows. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110094563 | Solar systems that include one or more shade-tolerant wiring schemes - The present invention provides shade tolerant wiring solutions for solar systems. Elements are grouped and wired in parallel within a group such that the total current of a group is substantially the same among multiple groups. Such a wiring scheme can be applied to solar targets (e.g., solar cells), solar , and solar modules. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110094564 | Asymmetric Parabolic Compound Concentrator With Photovoltaic Cells - An asymmetric compound parabolic concentrator (ACPC) coupled with a photovoltaic cell is disclosed according to some embodiments. The disclosed ACPC can concentrate solar light from a large full acceptance angle toward the photovoltaic cell. In some embodiments, the ACPC can be submerged within a liquid (e.g., water). The liquid can increase the full acceptance angle, provide temperature damping, and provide structural inertia to the system. In some embodiments, the ACPC can be constructed from acrylic or other resins. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110094565 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND APPARATUSES FOR ALIGNING LIGHT CONCENTRATOR COMPONENTS WITH A LIGHT SOURCE - A tracking system configured to orient light concentrators to face a light source. The system includes a movable support structure for providing global alignment of the light concentrators with the light source. The system also includes a light concentrator (LC) module that is coupled to the support structure and has an array of light concentrators that are in fixed positions with respect to each other. The system also includes a secondary alignment mechanism having a module joint that movably couples the LC module to the support structure and an actuator assembly. The actuator assembly is configured to selectively move the LC module about two axes relative to a pivot point of the module joint thereby orienting the array of light concentrators. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110100418 | Solid Linear Solar Concentrator Optical System With Micro-Faceted Mirror Array - A concentrating solar collector includes a solid optical structure a flat front surface, and PV cells and a micro-faceted mirror array disposed on the opposing rear surface. The micro-faceted mirrors are arranged in a sawtooth arrangement to reflect sunlight toward the front surface at angles that produces total internal reflection (TIR) and redirection of the sunlight onto the PV cells. The micro-faceted mirror array reflects sunlight onto the PV cells in an extended focus region of concentrated light that has a substantially uniform or homogeneous irradiance distribution pattern. The optical structure is a solid dielectric sheet either processed to include micro-faceted surfaces with reflective material formed thereon, or having a dielectric film including the micro-faceted mirror array adhered thereon. In one embodiment, three PV cells and four micro-faceted mirror arrays are disposed in an interleaved pattern with two side mirrors are disposed on side edges of the optical structure. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100419 | Linear Concentrating Solar Collector With Decentered Trough-Type Relectors - A linear concentrating solar collector includes two trough-type reflectors having respective curved reflective surfaces that define respective focal lines, and are connected along a common edge in a decentered arrangement such that the focal lines are parallel and spaced-apart, and such that solar radiation reflected by the curved reflective surfaces is concentrated and overlaps in a defocused state. In one embodiment a solar cell is disposed in the overlap region to receive the all of the reflected radiation from the curved reflective surfaces in a defocused state. An optional solid optical structure is used to support and position the trough-type reflectors and solar cell, and to facilitate self-forming of the curved reflective surfaces. In other embodiments, two solar cells are mounted on the rear surface of the optical element, and the curved reflective surfaces reflect sunlight at angles that produce total internal reflection of the sunlight onto the solar cells. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100420 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE WITH A CONTROLLABLE INFRARED PROTECTION LAYER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for a photovoltaic module, the photovoltaic module comprising a plurality of photovoltaic cells, a controllable infrared protection layer, and a protection switching means. The controllable infrared protection layer is for reducing the infrared radiation absorbed by the photovoltaic module, where the controllable infrared protection layer has a first state and a second state. When the infrared protection layer is in the first state the transmission of infrared radiation to the photovoltaic cells is higher than when the infrared protection layer is in the second state. The protection switching means is for switching the controllable infrared protection layer between the first state and the second state. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100421 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE, PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE MOUNTING SUPPORT STRUCTURE, AND PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE INSTALLATION METHOD - To provide an installation method for installing a photovoltaic module comprising a photovoltaic module, a support structure for supporting the photovoltaic module mounted thereon, a fixing member for fixing the photovoltaic module to the support structure; and a damper placed between a rear surface of the photovoltaic module and a surface of the support structure when the photovoltaic module is fixed to the support structure, using the fixing member. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100422 | PHOTOVOLTAIC PLANT WITH REFLECTOR ELEMENTS - A photovoltaic plant includes a plurality of longitudinal solar panels, a plurality of longitudinal reflector sheets, and a plurality of bending-resistant clamping strips. The plurality of longitudinal solar panels are disposed with mounting rails on a substantially horizontally orientated flat substrate at a predetermined angle and in parallel rows with a predetermined spacing to one another. The plurality of longitudinal reflector sheets are arranged between the rows of the solar panels. The clamping strips are disposed in a spaced vertical arrangement between the mounting rails on a back of the solar panels. Each of the clamping strips are configured to connect an upper edge of a respective one of the solar panels to an upper edge of an adjacent first reflector sheet of the reflector sheets and a lower edge of the respective solar panel to a lower edge of an adjacent second reflector sheet of the reflector sheet. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100423 | Light Scattering and Transport for Photosensitive Devices - Apparatus and methods are described for efficiently transporting and using incident radiation falling on photosensitive devices and structures supporting photosensitive devices. For example, an apparatus includes a low-absorption medium capable of passing and absorbing incident radiation; a scattering material disposed over at least a portion of or within the low-absorption material, the scattering material permitting a portion of incident light to pass therethrough; and a reflective surface disposed adjacent to the low-absorption medium to reflect radiation towards or within the medium. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100424 | TRANSPARENT SUBSTRATE WITH ANTI-REFLECTION COATING - The subject of the invention is a transparent substrate ( | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100425 | Heat dissipation sheet for the back face of solar battery module, and solar battery module using the same - A heat dissipation sheet for the back face of a solar battery module includes a heat dissipation film, and an adhesive compound layer laminated on one face side of the heat dissipation film. The heat dissipation film preferably has a fine bumpy shape on the entire surface of another face. The heat dissipation film preferably includes a substrate layer in which the adhesive compound layer is laminated on one face side, and a heat dissipation layer laminated on another face side of the substrate layer. The heat dissipation layer preferably includes fine particles, and a binder for the fine particles. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100426 | THIN FILM SOLAR CELL AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - A thin-film solar cell including a substrate, a first conductive layer, a plurality of photovoltaic layers, a second conductive layer, a first passivation layer and a second passivation layer is provided. The first conductive layer is disposed on the substrate. The photovoltaic layers are stacked on the first conductive layer and in electrical tandem, wherein each photovoltaic layer is adapted for generating a photocurrent. The second conductive layer is disposed on the photovoltaic layers. The first passivation layer is disposed on the second conductive layer, and the second passivation layer is disposed on the first passivation layer. The first and second passivation layers are used for reflecting the light within a wavelength range into the photovoltaic layers, so as to make the photocurrent generated by the photovoltaic layers being matched. A manufacturing method of the thin-film solar cell is also provided. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100427 | BYPASS DIODE FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS - A photovoltaic power module, comprising a substrate provided with a circuit, one or more photovoltaic cells mounted to the substrate and electrically connected to the circuit, and one or more bypass diodes, each corresponding to a respective one or more of the cells, wherein each of the diodes is located between the substrate and the cells and between conducting portions of the circuit. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100428 | PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION UNIT - A photoelectric conversion unit in which efficiency of optical coupling and stability of mechanical coupling improve is obtained. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110100429 | SOLAR ENERGY ASSEMBLIES - A solar energy assembly for collecting and converting solar energy. It comprises a plurality of solar energy converters | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110108089 | SOLAR PANEL SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USE - The present application provides a solar panel system. The solar panel system may include an aluminum outer frame, one or more photovoltaic panels positioned within the aluminum outer frame, and an adjustable support system connected to the aluminum outer frame such that the aluminum outer frame with the one or more photovoltaic panels includes a number of tilt angles. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110108090 | SOLAR COLLECTOR - The present invention relates to a solar energy collector suitable for use in a solar energy collection system. The solar energy collection system includes the collector, a stand that supports the collector and a tracking system that causes the collector to track movements of the sun along at least one axis. The collector includes one or more reflector panels, one or more solar receivers, and a support structure that physically supports the reflector panels and solar receivers. Some designs involve a reflector panel that has a compound curvature. That is, the reflector panel has a convex shape along one direction and a concave shape in another direction. In another aspect of the invention, the collector includes a space frame support structure. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110108091 | SOLAR COLLECTOR - The present invention relates to a solar energy collector suitable for use in a solar energy collection system. The solar energy collection system includes the collector, a stand that supports the collector and a tracking system that causes the collector to track movements of the sun along at least one axis. The collector includes one or more reflector panels, one or more solar receivers, and a support structure that physically supports the reflector panels and solar receivers. Some designs involve a reflector panel that has a compound curvature. That is, the reflector panel has a convex shape along one direction and a concave shape in another direction. In another aspect of the invention, the collector includes a space frame support structure. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110108092 | CONCENTRATOR FOR SOLAR RADIATION - A concentrator for solar radiation and which comprises a housing having an aperture arranged to admit incident solar radiation and linearly extending receivers located within the housing. A plurality of linearly extending line focusing, tensile-loaded reflector elements is associated with each receiver and arranged to reflect toward the receiver incident solar radiation that enters the housing, and a drive mechanism is located within the housing and arranged to impart sun tracking pivotal drive to the reflector elements. A housing configuration is disclosed that, with aperture-defining windows, provides for maximal admission of solar radiation. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110114153 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR COLLECTION AND TRACKING SYSTEM - A photovoltaic sun tracking system including a photovoltaic assembly, a first mounting structure, and a second mounting structure. The photovoltaic assembly includes at least one PV cell maintained by framework defining a PV plane. The first and second mounting structures are mounted to a support surface and rotatably maintain the framework at first and second pivot points, respectively, to establish a tracking axis passing through the pivot points. The tracking axis is non-parallel with the PV plane. The photovoltaic assembly can be rocked along the tracking axis to follow motion of the sun relative to the earth. One or both of the mounting structures can be relatively small, and the off-parallel tracking axis promotes increased efficiency over the course of a year. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110114154 | RECEIVER FOR CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC-THERMAL SYSTEM - Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein. Examples of solar energy receivers are disclosed that may be used to collect concentrated solar radiation. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110114155 | SOLAR ENERGY USE - The solar combination panel, including a solar panel and a heat exchanger, has a tubular heat exchanger at the back of a solar panel, by which the solar panel can always be operated in the optimal temperature range so as to improve the electricity yield. A host of heat collector sheets, which are provided as heat collectors and are attached by cementing, are located on the back cover film of the solar panel. Fluted metal adhesive plates are located on the heat collector sheets. The fluted metal adhesive plates are likewise cemented and in the fluting of which a metal pipe is geometrically cemented such that in this way the transmission of power from the heat exchanger to the solar panel is minimized. A method for producing the solar combination panel is described. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110120523 | Solar photovoltaic support and tracking system with vertical adjustment capability - Installation of solar energy systems is made easier through the use of augur tubes. The base augur tube accommodates telescoping sections which enable these systems to exhibit a smaller footprint with enhanced power ratings. A tracking head is provided in which dual axis tracking is provided using a single drive mechanism. These features are employed either together or independently. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110120524 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SOLAR POWER GENERATION - A photovoltaic device comprising an array of elongate reflector elements mounted substantially parallel to one another and transversely spaced in series, at least one of the reflector elements having an elongate concave reflective surface to reflect incident solar radiation towards a forward adjacent reflector element in the array. The at least one reflector element includes a photovoltaic assembly which is removably and replaceably mounted on the reflector element. The photovoltaic assembly includes a photovoltaic receptor to receive reflected solar radiation from a rearward adjacent reflector element. The photovoltaic assembly also includes a heat sink in heat transfer relationship with the photovoltaic receptor, thermally isolating the photovoltaic receptor, at least partially, from the reflector element. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110120525 | MOLDING PROCESSES FOR LIGHT CONCENTRATING ARTICLES THAT ARE USED IN SOLAR CELL MODULES - Light concentrating articles capable of concentrating about 1.02 to about 2000 sun equivalents of solar energy onto a solar cell comprise a thermoplastic composition, preferably an ionomer composition. The light concentrating articles may be made by a variety of processes, which are provided herein, such as for example an injection molding process, an injection overmolding process, an extrusion process, a cast film or sheet process, a blown film or sheet process, a vacuum forming process, a compression molding process, a transfer molding process, or a profile extrusion process. Secondary forming processes, such as bending, stamping, embossing, machining, laminating, adhering, metallizing, and the like may also be used in forming the light concentrating articles. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110120526 | Monolithic Low Concentration Photovoltaic Panel Based On Polymer Embedded Photovoltaic Cells And Crossed Compound Parabolic Concentrators - A concentrating photovoltaic panel including an encapsulating polymer layer, an array of photovoltaic cells, a plurality of first interconnects and an optical layer, each of the photovoltaic cells is embedded within the encapsulating layer, the plurality of first interconnects is coupled with each of the photovoltaic cells and with the encapsulating layer, the plurality of first interconnects electrically interconnecting all the photovoltaic cells of the array there-between, the optical layer is coupled on top of the encapsulating layer and the array of photovoltaic cells, the optical layer concentrating light radiation onto the array of photovoltaic cells, at least one of the first interconnects remains exposed out of the protective layer. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110126882 | DYE-SENSITIZED SOLAR BATTERY MODULE - A solar battery module. The solar battery module includes at least one three-dimensional solar battery unit formed of one or more dye-sensitized solar battery cells. The three-dimensional solar battery unit may be disposed on an optical element configured to utilize light penetrated through the three-dimensional solar battery unit. The optical element may include another solar battery cell or a reflective plate. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110126883 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EXTRACTING ENERGY FROM INSOLATION - Light management systems and related methods disclosed herein are able to re-direct solar insolation. In some embodiments, a system for harvesting insolation may include a solar target, such as one or more photovoltaic assemblies and/or bioreactor targets. In some embodiments, a substantially uniform light distribution is provided within and/or on the targets. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110126884 | PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL SUPPORT BASE ROTATING SIMULTANEOUSLY AROUND A HORIZONTAL AND A VERTICAL AXIS - A Photovoltaic panel support base rotating simultaneously around two axes, i.e. around an horizontal axis (North-South direction) for the continuous correction of the swivel angle (β), and around a vertical axis (East-West direction) for the continuous correction of the hour angle (ω), the solar deviation (δ) and the azimuthal surface (γ). The assembly comprises the tower ( | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110126885 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR POWER GENERATION SYSTEM - A solar power generation system includes a plurality of individual modules, each formed from a photovoltaic cell, a solar concentrator, a sealed evaporative cooling system and a heat sink. The solar concentrator focuses sunlight onto a front side the cell to generate electricity. The cooling system circulates a coolant in a liquid state to an evaporative cooling chamber having a wall defined at least partially by a back side of the cell to remove heat from the cell by direct contact between the coolant and the cell, and emits coolant in a vapor state to a condenser where the vapor coolant is condensed to a liquid state. The heat sink may be any suitable body of water, such that the condenser may be at least partially submerged therein. The modules are combined to form a platform that is rotated on the body of water by a drive device to provide tracking of the sun. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110132429 | System and method for the use of waste heat - A system for using the waste heat produced from the production of liquefied or solidified heat sink refrigerant in the production of fuel that includes a liquefied or solidified heat sink refrigerant production system, a fuel production system, and a heat exchanger. The liquefied or solidified heat sink refrigerant production system produces waste heat which is transferred through the heat exchanger to power the fuel production system | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110132430 | SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION DEVICE AND MODULE - An exemplary solar energy conversion device includes a substrate, a solar energy conversion chip, and a carbon nanotube layer. The substrate defines a through hole. The solar energy conversion chip is positioned on the substrate and covers the through hole. The solar energy conversion chip includes a light incident surface facing away from the substrate and a heat dissipating surface at an opposite side thereof to the light incident surface. The carbon nanotube layer is formed on the heat dissipating surface. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110132431 | OPTOELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH BYPASS DIODE - Optoelectronic devices with bypass diodes are described. An optoelectronic device includes a bypass diode, a heat spreader unit disposed above, and extending over, the bypass diode, and a heat sink disposed above the heat spreader unit. Another optoelectronic device includes a bypass diode, a heat spreader unit disposed above, but not extending over, the bypass diode, and a heat sink disposed above the heat spreader unit. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110132432 | SOLAR MODULE CONSTRUCTION - Various embodiments of a solar module design are disclosed. In some embodiments, a solar module comprises an optic having a sloped waveguide profile. The optic of the solar module is directly coupled to a receiver comprising a solar cell. The receiver is also coupled to a backplane of the module. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110132433 | GEAR TRANSMISSION AND PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER-GENERATING APPARATUS USING THE GEAR TRANSMISSION - A gear transmission comprises a crankshaft that eccentrically rotates one of an internal gear and an external gear. A first gear is attached to one end of the crankshaft. A ring gear having internal teeth meshes with the first gear. An intermediate gear meshes with external teeth of the ring gear. A second gear is attached to one end of an output shaft of a motor and meshes with the intermediate gear. The motor and the crankshaft are positioned, relative to the intermediate gear, on the same side in the axial direction of the gear transmission. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110139217 | PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAY WITH ANGULAR ADJUSTMENT - Apparatus are provided for use in photovoltaic systems. A photovoltaic array includes a rigid transparent material supporting a flexible material there beneath. Numerous photovoltaic cells are supported by the flexible material and are electrically coupled to circuit pathways borne there on. A positioner operates to shift the flexible material thus adjusting respective angular relationships between the photovoltaic cells and the overlying transparent material. Photovoltaic cells are reoriented in accordance with daily or seasonal variations in the suns position by way of the present teachings. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110139218 | ENCAPSULANT MATERIAL FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - A photovoltaic module includes a solar cell layer having a front side for receiving light and an opposite back side, and an encapsulant layer on at least the front side of the solar cell layer. The encapsulant layer comprises a lithium ionomer for increasing the conversion efficiency of the photovoltaic module. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110139219 | SUPPORTING AND COOLING STRUCTURE OF PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A supporting and cooling structure and a photovoltaic module with the same are described. The supporting and cooling structure includes a supporting frame to fix a photovoltaic panel of the photovoltaic module, and a supporting and cooling member fixed on the supporting frame. The supporting and cooling member touches the photovoltaic panel to further support the photovoltaic panel and to transmit a heat on the photovoltaic panel to the supporting frame therethrough. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110139220 | SOLAR DEVICE AND SOLAR SYSTEM COMPRISING THE SAME - Disclosed herein is a prismatic solar device, which includes a triangular body, composed of a solar cell, a reflector and a decorating member. A triangular space is enclosed by the solar cell, reflector and decorating member. A solar system including a plurality of the solar devices is also disclosed. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110146752 | Solar module and solar array - A solar module includes a plurality of plate-shaped solar cells adjacent to each other, each solar cell having a polygonal cross-section from a plan view and at least one outer surface facing away from an interior of the solar module, and a fluid circulation tube along the outer surfaces of the solar cells, the fluid circulation tube including cooling fluid. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110146753 | SOLAR ENERGY GENERATION SYSTEM - Embodiments of a solar energy generation system are disclosed. The solar energy generation system may be adapted for use with a right of way or may be adapted to at least partially cover buildings or objects. In one embodiment adapted for use with a right of way, the solar energy generation system includes a plurality of support members that extend over at least some of the right of way and are configured to support an array of solar cell modules. The solar cell modules may be elongated units that are disposed substantially parallel to each other and to the local direction of the right of way. The solar cell modules can include one or more photovoltaic panels on an upper surface and can have a lower surface that is aerodynamically shaped to provide a downward aerodynamic force when wind flows past the solar cell module. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110146754 | SOLAR CONVERSION SYSTEM HAVING SOLAR COLLECTOR FOR FORMING A TRANSPOSED IMAGE - A solar collector for concentrating reflected solar energy into an image that is converted into electricity. The collector is configured so that solar energy reflecting from regions of the collector farthest from the image is directed towards the middle region of the image. Alternatively, one or more segments of the collector can be configured to form a corresponding discrete portion of the image; the solar energy forming the portion of the image can be inverted from the solar energy reflecting from the one or more segments. Optionally, the portions created by the one or more segments can overlap. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110146755 | VERTICALLY STACKED PHOTOVOLTAIC AND THERMAL SOLAR CELL - According to some embodiments, the present invention provides a novel photovoltaic solar cell system from photovoltaic modules that are vertically arrayed in a stack format using thin film semiconductors selected from among organic and inorganic thin film semiconductors. The stack cells may be cells that are produced in a planar manner, then vertically oriented in an angular form, also termed herein tilted, to maximize the light capturing aspects. The use of a stack configuration system as described herein allows for the use of a variety of electrode materials, such as transparent materials or semitransparent metals. Light concentration can be achieved by using fresnel lens, parabolic mirrors or derivatives of such structures. The light capturing can be controlled by being reflected back and forth in the photovoltaic system until significant quantities of the resonant light is absorbed. Light that passes to the very end and can be reflected back through the device by beveling or capping the end of the device with a different refractive index material, or alternatively using a reflective surface. The contacting between stacked cells can be done in series or parallel. According to some embodiments, the present invention uses a concentrator architecture where the light is channeled into the cells that contain thermal fluid channels (using a transparent fluid such as water) to absorb and hence reduce the thermal energy generation. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110146756 | THIN-FILM PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERTER AND FABRICATION METHOD THEREFOR - A conventional thin-film photoelectric converter using amorphous germanium or crystalline silicon as a photoelectric conversion layer is problematic in that light having a long wavelength of 1100 nm or more cannot be used for photoelectric conversion, and is inefficient. The problem is solved by a thin-film photoelectric converter including one or more photoelectric conversion units each having a photoelectric conversion layer sandwiched between a p-type semiconductor layer and an n-type semiconductor layer, wherein the photoelectric conversion layer of at least one photoelectric conversion unit includes an intrinsic or weak n-type crystalline germanium semiconductor, and the absorption coefficient of infrared-absorption peak at wave number of 935±5 cm | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110155210 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module includes a plurality of solar cells, a protective layer positioned on the plurality of solar cells, and a transparent member positioned on the protective layer, the transparent member protecting the plurality of solar cells, the transparent member including a first anti-reflection portion patterned on at least one of an outer surface and partially positioned in an inner surface of the transparent member, the inner surface being a surface facing the plurality of solar cells. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155211 | STATIONARY SOLAR SPECTRUM-SPLITTING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STIMULATING A BROADBAND PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL ARRAY - Solar system for converting solar radiation into electric energy, the system comprising: a refraction array and a converting array, the refracting array including at least one refraction sub array, each of the refraction sub arrays including a plurality of refraction sites, each of the refraction sites refracting variable approach angle collimated solar radiation into a plurality of solar rays, each of the solar rays being of a different waveband, each of the refraction sites directing each of the solar rays, refracted thereby, in a different direction, the different direction being at least dependent on the approach angle of the solar radiation, the converting array including a plurality of broadband converting cells, positioned such that light refracted by the refraction array impinges on the converting array, wherein at any given moment, each of the converting cells receives solar rays of a specific waveband originating from different refraction sites and arriving from different directions thereto. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155212 | SOLAR PANEL ASSEMBLY WITH HEAT DISSIPATION IMPROVEMENT - A solar panel assembly includes a solar panel, a gasket, a metal frame and a thermal paste. The solar panel has an upper glass substrate and a lower substrate. The gasket seals and sandwiches respective edges of the upper and lower substrates. The metal frame encloses the gasket. The thermal paste is disposed along the gasket or to enclose the gasket. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155213 | WAVELENGTH SPECTRUM CONVERSION SOLAR CELL MODULE - An optical total internal reflection wavelength conversion solar cell module includes a solar cell, a wavelength spectrum conversion layer having a wavelength spectrum conversion effect and being coupled to a side of the solar cell, and a cover panel for packaging the solar cell and the wavelength spectrum conversion layer, such that the wavelength of a light source which have a less solar cell photoelectric conversion efficiency or the wavelength of an unuseful light source into the wavelength of a more useful light source wavelength spectrum domain and to increase the probability for the solar cell to receive sunlight, so as to enhance the light source utility efficiency and achieve a much better conversion efficiency. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155214 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE HAVING THERMOELECTRIC COOLING MODULE - A photovoltaic module is described. The photovoltaic module includes a supporting frame, a photovoltaic panel fixed on the supporting frame, and a thermoelectric module fixed on the photovoltaic panel to reduce an operating temperature of the photovoltaic panel. The photovoltaic module can use a heat sink to reduce the operating temperature of the photovoltaic panel. The heat sink is an additional heat sink or the supporting frame that can function as a heat sink to increase the temperature gradient for the thermoelectric module. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155215 | SOLAR CELL HAVING A TWO DIMENSIONAL PHOTONIC CRYSTAL - Disclosed herein is a solar cell, which includes a substrate, a photoactive member and a two dimensional photonic crystal. The photoactive member is disposed on a surface of the substrate. The two dimensional photonic crystal is disposed on the surface of the substrate and adjacent to the photoactive member such that a light propagated from the photoactive member is reflected back to the photoactive member. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155216 | SOLAR POWER COLLECTING DEVICE - A solar power collecting device including a parabolic concentrating unit, a light-guide pillar positioned on the parabolic concentrating unit, a solar cell positioned on the light-guide pillar and a transmissive protection cap for covering the light-guide pillar and the solar cell is disclosed. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155217 | Concentrated Photovoltaic System Modules Using III-V Semiconductor Solar Cells - A solar cell receiver for use in a concentrating solar system which concentrates the solar energy onto a solar cell for converting solar energy to electricity. The solar cell receiver may include a solar cell mounted on a support and with one or more III-V compound semiconductor layers. An optical element may be positioned over the solar cell and have an optical channel with an inlet that faces away from the solar cell and an outlet that faces towards the solar cell. A frame may be positioned over the support and extend around the solar cell with the frame having an inner side that extends above the support and faces towards the optical element. An encapsulant may be positioned over the support and contained between the optical element and the frame. The encapsulant may have enlarged heights at contact points with the optical element and the frame and a reduced height between the contact points away from the optical element and the frame. The solar cell receiver may be used in a solar cell module. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110155218 | SOLAR INSTALLATION - The invention relates to a solar installation ( | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110162691 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE SUPPORT SYSTEM - 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. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110168232 | Method and System for Providing Tracking for Concentrated Solar Modules - According to an embodiment, the present invention provides a system for collecting solar energy. The system includes a solar panel, the solar panel comprising a plurality of photovoltaic strips, the plurality of photovoltaic strips including a first strip and a second strip, the first strip and the second strip being substantially parallel to each other, the plurality of photovoltaic strips being electrically coupled to one another, the solar panel including a front cover member, the front cover member including a plurality of concentrator elements, the plurality of photovoltaic strips being aligned to the plurality of concentrator elements, the plurality of concentrator elements including a first concentrator element and a second concentrator element, the first concentrator element and the second concentrator element being separated by a notch, the first concentrator being associated with a first angle and a second angle, | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110168233 | SOLAR PANEL HEAT-DISSIPATING DEVICE AND RELATED SOLAR PANEL MODULE - A solar panel heat-dissipating device for adjusting temperature of a solar panel includes a base for supporting the solar panel and a cooling plate disposed between the solar panel and the base. The cooling plate includes a cooling tube contacting a side of the solar panel so as to absorb heat generated by the solar panel. In addition, conductive fluid is accommodated inside the cooling tube for dissipating the heat of the cooling tube conducted from the solar panel. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110168234 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE FOR A CLOSELY PACKED ARRAY - A photovoltaic device comprising a substantially planar photon source facing side, a plurality of edges extending around the perimeter defined by the photon source facing side, and an edge insulator arranged to prevent at least one edge of the plurality of edges from coming into electrical contact with a neighbouring electrically conductive element when the photovoltaic device is arranged as part of an array of photovoltaic devices. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110168235 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR GENERATING ELECTRICITY USING PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS - An apparatus ( | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110174357 | Temperature Control Device for Thin-Type Photovoltaic Thermal Module - Provided is a temperature control device for a thin-type photovoltaic thermal module, including a conductive layer and a conductor having a top surface coupled to a bottom surface of the photovoltaic thermal module via the conductive layer therebetween. The conductor is internally provided with a plurality of channels arranged in parallel. A liquid is configured to flow from an end of the conductor to another end of the conductor so as to allow heat to enter or exit the conductor for enabling the photovoltaic thermal module to generate power at a steady power level. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110174358 | FRAME STRUCTURE OF CONCENTRATOR TYPE SOLAR CELL MODULE - A frame structure of a concentrator type solar cell module, with its carrier portion and connection and fixing portion of a frame edge designed into a vertical and stack-up arrangement, thus reducing significantly a thickness of the frame edge, such that upon carrying a concentrator lens array, the proportion of light receiving area is increased, hereby raising the photo-electrical conversion efficiency of the concentrator type solar cell module. Therefore, in this way, in a condition of maintaining a same load mechanical strength, the ineffective light receiving area can be reduced significantly, while raising the photo-electrical conversion efficiency of the solar cell module. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110174359 | ARRAY MODULE OF PARABOLIC SOLAR ENERGY RECEIVERS - A solar energy receiver array comprises a plurality of solar energy receivers arranged in an X by Y array. A protected housing includes a plurality of sides defining an opening therein. The plurality of solar energy receivers are arranged in the X by Y array may be lowered into the opening within the protective housing to protect the plurality of solar energy receivers arranged in the X by Y array from external winds. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110180126 | APPARATUS FOR CONVERGING SOLAR RADIATION - An apparatus for converging solar radiation includes a base which has a heating portion disposed thereon. Two supporting stands are oppositely pivotally mounted a top of the base. Two sensing sheets respectively oppositely disposed on two sides of each supporting stand. Each sensing sheet has a first end mounted on the supporting stand and a second end of the sensing sheet has an elastic unit connected thereto. A converging lens is pivotally mounted on the supporting stands. The converging lens is connected to the elastic units such that the converging lens is located above the heating portion. The sensing sheets slightly expanded and stretched when heated such that the elastic units are driven by the heated sensing sheets to pull the converging lens to incline toward the heated sensing sheets for tracking movement of the sun to maximize absorption of solar radiation. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110186106 | HYBRID CONCENTRATOR SOLAR ENERGY DEVICE - An apparatus for generating electricity with the ability to distill a liquid and/or expand a working fluid and/or produce mechanical energy and/or produce thermal energy and/or produce chemical energy through separately utilizing light in the infrared (IR) region and light within the visible and ultraviolet (UV) regions. The apparatus uses polychromatic light concentration and multiplication, light collimation, spectral separation, photoelectric generation through conversion of visible light, and useful conversion of infrared light into applications to generate a distilled liquid, expand a working fluid, produce mechanical energy, produce thermal energy, produce chemical energy and/or generate electricity. Non-reflected radiant energy may be used to operate a suitable photovoltaic cell or stack of cells. In alternative embodiments, the spectral separator may reflect most radiant energy incident upon it to one or more photovoltaic cells and pass infrared to an accumulator for use as heat energy to generate mechanical or chemical energy or generate further electrical energy. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110186107 | SYSTEM AND MODULE FOR SOLAR MODULE WITH INTEGRATED GLASS CONCENTRATOR - A solar module includes a photovoltaic region having an elongated shape. At least one bus bar pad overlies portions of the photovoltaic region. The solar module includes an electrically conductive region configured along a periphery region of the photovoltaic region to expose an interior surface region of the photovoltaic strip. A finger structure configured to conduct electrical current generated in the photovoltaic regions overlies the electrically conductive region. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110186108 | Ring architecture for high efficiency solar cells - A high efficiency multiring solar cell (MRSC) system, including a number of single-junction solar cells and utilizing a novel multiring architecture is disclosed. Sunlight from the solar concentrator illuminates a double cone prism to create spatially separated spectral bands. Projection of the spectral bands on working surfaces of solar cells creates a sequence of spatially separated spectral rings, where rings corresponding to the spectral bands with longer wavelengths are enclosed by the rings corresponding to shorter wavelengths. The number of solar cells and their shape corresponds to the number and the shape of the respective spectral rings. Each solar cell is optimized for efficiently converting the sunlight from the corresponding spectral band. A corresponding method of forming solar cells and converting sunlight into electricity are also provided. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110192445 | HIGH PRECISION, HIGH SPEED SOLAR CELL ARRANGEMENT TO A CONCENTRATOR LENS ARRAY AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - A method for fabricating a photoelectric array device with an optical micro lens array ( | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110197949 | SOLAR COLLECTOR - This invention presents a trough-shaped solar collector. The solar collector includes a trough-shaped reflector for concentrating incoming solar rays upon a focal axis. The reflector includes a flexible reflective membrane having a concave reflective surface. The reflective membrane is braced by a support frame that is inside the concave space created by the reflective surface. The concave reflective surface forms a paraboloidal surface. The reflective membrane is placed in tension and is held against support frame members using clamps. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110197950 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A photovoltaic module includes a solar module and a heat sink bonded with a solar unit in a vacuum heating pressing manner. The heat sink is used for dissipating thermal energy generated by the solar module. Through the structure, heat of the solar module can be dissipated more effectively, thereby increasing efficiency of photoelectric conversion. Besides, the structure of the photovoltaic module is simplified, a heat conduction interface material in the prior art is not required, and assembly can be performed in the vacuum heating pressing manner, thereby greatly simplifying the manufacturing procedure. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110197951 | SOLAR BATTERY MODULE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A solar battery module includes a wiring substrate having connection wiring on a front surface, a plurality of solar battery cells, a sealant sealing the plurality of solar battery cells mounted on the front surface of the wiring substrate, and a light-transmitting front surface protection material covering the plurality of solar battery cells sealed with the sealant. The plurality of solar battery cells each include a cell substrate and back surface electrodes disposed on a back surface of the cell substrate. The cell substrates are arranged on the front surface of the wiring substrate. The plurality of solar battery cells are mounted on the wiring substrate by electrically connecting the back surface electrodes with the connection wiring. A filler is disposed in at least a portion of a gap between the plurality of solar battery cells. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110203638 | CONCENTRATING LINEAR PHOTOVOLTAIC RECEIVER AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SAME - A photovoltaic receiver for a concentrating photovoltaic module comprises a photovoltaic cell comprising an active area with an electrically conductive gridline; an encapsulating layer disposed substantially about a predetermined portion of the photovoltaic cell where the encapsulating layer comprises a transparent portion disposed over a predetermined portion of the photovoltaic cell active area; and a prismatic cell cover attached to the transparent portion. The prismatic cell cover is dimensioned and configured to refract focused sunlight away from the electrically conductive gridline on the solar cell. The receiver may comprise a carrier; a first thermally loaded adhesive layer disposed above the carrier; a dielectric layer disposed above the first thermally loaded adhesive layer; a second thermally loaded adhesive layer disposed above the dielectric layer; a solar cell assembly disposed above the second thermally loaded adhesive layer, further comprising a photovoltaic cell comprising an active area further comprising an electrically conductive gridline; an encapsulating layer disposed substantially about a predetermined portion of the photovoltaic cell, the encapsulating layer comprising a transparent portion disposed over a predetermined portion of the photovoltaic cell active area; and a prismatic cell cover attached to the transparent portion, the prismatic cell cover dimensioned and configured to refract focused sunlight away from the electrically conductive gridline on the solar cell. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110203639 | Solar Panel - 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. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110203640 | SOLAR TRACKING DEVICE FOR PANELS - The invention relates to a solar tracking device for panels. The device includes a modular structure in which each module is formed by a plurality of pairs of coplanar panels ( | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110209742 | Method and Structure for a Cool Roof by Using a Plenum Structure - A plenum structure for cooling both a roof and a solar module includes an upper surface comprising at least a portion of a bottom face of a solar module having a length and a width and an under surface comprising a top face of a pan structure disposed a first vertical spacing directly below the upper surface and a second vertical spacing above the roof. The plenum structure includes a first side face and a second side face respectively coupled to the upper surface and the under surface, a first end face and a second end face respectively coupled to upper surface, the under surface, the first side face, and the second side face to enclose a spatial volume defined by the length, the width, and the first vertical spacing. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110209743 | PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL APPARATUS - Photovoltaic apparatus comprising a photovoltaic cell comprising an optical component of transparent material of cross section having a first surface forming an entry aperture for solar radiation, a second surface forming an exit aperture for the solar radiation passing through the entry aperture, opposite surfaces which are curved in shape, photovoltaic material positioned to receive solar radiation from the exit aperture, the opposite side surfaces being shaped to provide total internal reflection of solar radiation passing from the entry to the exit apertures, a mirror surface being positioned to reflect radiation away from one of said side surfaces. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110214710 | SOLAR COLLECTION DEVICE WITH NON-MOVING CONCENTRATION ELEMENTS - Methods and devices are provided for solar collection and concentration using non-moving concentration elements using lens-fragments. The methods and devices improve solar collection especially at morning and evening hours when the devices and methods are used on the surface of the earth. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110214711 | SOLAR PANEL - A solar cell has a substrate made of a textile planar structure. The textile planar structure is assembled from light transparent glass-fiber threads and electrically conductive, but non-transparent carbon-fiber threads. The glass-fiber threads serve as spacers and fillers for the carbon-fiber threads, so that sufficiently light transparent, closed interstices are created between the carbon-fiber threads, whereby the light can pass through the substrate. Semiconductor layers, which form a blocking layer in-between, are located on both sides of the thus-formed substrate. One electrode is generated by the carbon-fiber threads of the substrate. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110220172 | PHOTO INDUCED ENHANCED FIELD ELECTRON EMISSION COLLECTOR - An electromagnetic energy collector and sensor use enhanced fields to emit electrons for energy collection. The collector and sensor collect energy from visible light, infrared radiation and ultraviolet electromagnetic radiation. The collector and sensor include a waveguide with a geometry selected to enhance the electric field along a conductor to create a high, localized electric field, which causes electron emission across a gap to a return plane. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110220173 | ACTIVE SOLAR CONCENTRATOR WITH MULTI-JUNCTION DEVICES - An active solar concentrator including a horizontally oriented structure including light directing portions with partially reflective surfaces directing light vertically impinging thereon into a central area and a solar module positioned in the central area to receive light from the partially reflective surfaces. The light directing portions each including at least one layer of rare earth oxide designed to up-convert light passing therethrough and positioned to receive light directly and/or from an outer light directing portion. The solar module may include a plurality of multi junction solar cells formed on a common substrate. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110220174 | COMPACT PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a photovoltaic device, and in particular, a multichannel photovoltaic device to concentrate incident light for electrical generation. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110220175 | ULTRA AND VERY HIGH-EFFICIENCY SOLAR CELLS - The present invention is an apparatus and method for the realization of a photovoltaic solar cell that is able to achieve greater than 50% efficiency and can be manufactured at low cost on a large scale. The apparatus of the present invention is an integrated optical and solar cell design that allows a much broader choice of materials, enabling high efficiency, the removal of many existing cost drivers, and the inclusion of multiple other innovations. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110220176 | PORTABLE, DURABLE, INTEGRATED SOLAR POWER GENERATION DEVICE - A solar power generation device comprising a power subunit comprising an array configured to collect solar radiation, and a control subunit removably connected to the power subunit and configured to provide control and motion to the power subunit. The array includes at least one solar module and a pivoting means configured to facilitate movement of the at least one solar module from a closed configuration to an open configuration. The power subunit includes a frame configured to support and move the array. The control subunit includes a tracking system configured to position the array relative to a the sun to maximize collection of solar radiation. When not in use, the solar power generation device may be stacked in a closed configuration with other similar devices on a pallet or other storage device. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110226307 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL TYPE CONCENTRATING SOLAR CELL SYSTEM - A three-dimensional type concentrating solar cell system without sun-tracing apparatus is provided. The system comprises a plurality of sphere-like concentrators and a plurality of photovoltaic cell. The sphere-like concentrators are arranged to form a curved surface. There is no need for the system to trace the light source, such as the sun. The present invention can provide sufficient electric power for user's applications. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110226308 | Solar energy hybrid module - A solar energy module assembles into an array producing electricity and heat upon exposure to light. The module includes a transparent tube; a reflector; solar cells; a pipe that is specially configured with planar walls; and an optional sun-tracking device. The reflector concentrates light to focal lines within the top part of the transparent tube. The pipe has a polygon cross-sectional shape with an odd number of flat walls, preferably three or five flat walls. A flat wall faces the top of the tube and is configured to extend across a portion of a cross-sectional shape occupied by a plurality of bottom-facing planar walls. At least two bottom-facing planar walls are each located in a focal line. A fluid in the pipe may serve as a coolant. The solar cells, preferably monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic cells, are mounted on the top flat wall and each bottom-facing planar wall to produce electricity. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110226309 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION SYSTEM - In one aspect of the present invention, a solar energy collection system that includes multiple longitudinally adjacent collectors is described. The collectors are coupled end to end to form a collector row. Each collector includes a reflector, one or more solar receivers and a support structure. There is a space between the support structures of adjacent collectors in the collector row, where the reflectors of the adjacent collectors extend beyond the underlying support structures to form a substantially continuous reflective surface over the space. A coupling device is positioned in the space between the tube assemblies. The coupling device connects and helps to rotate the support structures of the adjacent collectors. Some embodiments relate to various types of coupling devices and collector arrangements. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110226310 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION SYSTEM - In one aspect of the present invention, a solar energy collection system will be described that includes a collector row and at least one stand that supports the collector row. Multiple longitudinally adjacent collectors are arranged end to end along a longitudinal axis to form the collector row. Each collector includes a reflector, at least one solar receiver and a support structure. The support structure supports the solar receivers and the reflector. The reflectors of the collector row are configured to have a range of tilt angles that are at least ±70 degrees around the pivot axis. In various embodiments, the reflectors of the adjacent collectors are arranged to collectively form a substantially continuous reflective surface along the length of the collector row. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110232718 | SOLAR COLLECTOR - A solar collector with reflective composite sheets consisting of a solid thermoplastic core between an outer aluminum skin. The reflective sheets are secured together with stiffeners formed from the same reflective composite sheet material. The sheets may be connected in modules for securing to longitudinal supports to establish the solar energy reflective surface of the solar collector. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110232719 | SOLAR POWER SYSTEM - Disclosed is an invention wherein systems and methods are described to enable wide acceptance angle solar concentrators independent of the means of tracking, to decouple system components based on cost, environmental, efficiency, and lifecycle parameters either in whole or in part through component modularity and methods of installation and de-installation, and optimization of design of said systems based on quantified market and systems' decoupled cost parameters. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110232720 | HIGH-CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - A high-concentration photovoltaic system comprises at least one photovoltaic receiver ( | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110232721 | PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) ENHANCEMENT FILMS OR PROTECTIVE COVERS FOR ENHANCING SOLAR CELL EFFICIENCES - A solar energy conversion assembly for efficiently capturing solar energy by providing additional chances to absorb reflected sunlight and providing longer path lengths in the photovoltaic (PV) material. The assembly includes a PV device including a layer of PV material and a protective top covering the PV material (e.g., a planar glass cover applied with adhesive to the PV material). The assembly further includes a PV enhancement film formed of a substantially transparent material, and film is applied to at least a portion of the protective top such as with a substantially transparent adhesive. The PV enhancement film includes a plurality of absorption enhancement structures on the substrate opposite the PV device. Each absorption enhancement structure includes a light receiving surface that refracts incident light striking the PV enhancement film to provide an average path length ratio of greater than about 1.20 in the layer of PV material. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110232722 | HEAT TRANSFER ELEMENT AND ARRANGEMENT FOR COOLING SOLAR CELLS - The invention relates to a heat transfer element and an arrangement using such an element to lower the temperature of solar cells. The heat transfer element is arranged to be placed on the shadow side of and in contact with a panel of solar cells and configured for collecting heat from the solar cells, said element comprising an inlet, an outlet and a internal passage extending between said inlet and said outlet and being arranged to guide a heat transporting fluid. Also the passage is defined between two generally parallel sheets. The arrangement comprises a heat transfer element arranged to be placed on the shadow side of and in contact with the panel and a system feeding a heat transporting fluid to said inlet and receiving the heat transporting fluid from said outlet. The invention also comprise an arrangement for cooling a panel of solar cells, comprising a heat transfer element arranged to be placed on the shadow side of and in contact with the panel and a system feeding a heat transporting fluid to said inlet of the element and receiving the heat transporting fluid from the outlet of said element. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110240094 | Solar Energy Collection System - A method of concentrating directional radiant energy using reflective optics and receivers that convert that energy wherein the receivers are situated in the body of the reflector on risers parallel to the direction of radiant energy, each said riser bounded by at least one parabolic mirror lying closer and another lying farther from the energy source, where the focus or foci of said mirrors lie substantially in the direction faced by the receiver situated in said riser. The reflector geometries include ones in which the mirrors are parabolic cylinder sections and require only one-axis tracking to focus, and ones in which the mirrors are paraboloid sections and require two-axis tracking to focus sunlight. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240095 | Light reuse sheet, solar battery module, and light source module - A light reuse sheet includes a reflective surface having an uneven configuration, the reflective surface in order to reflect light in a specific direction so as to cause light to be incident to a solar battery cell, the light being incident to a solar battery module, or in order to exit light in a specific direction by reflecting the light, the light being emitted from a light emitting element of a light source module. The reflective surface satisfies the following formula where a length in a horizontal direction of a solar battery cell or a light emitting element is represented by Lx; a length in a vertical direction of a solar battery cell or a light emitting element is represented by Ly; an angle formed between a direction of an uneven configuration of the reflective surface and an edge in a horizontal direction of the solar battery cell or the light emitting element is represented by φ; and maximum width of light which passes between adjacent solar battery cells and which is reflected by a light reuse sheet and is incident to a light receiving face of a solar battery cell or maximum width of light which is not emitted from a light emitting element in a specific direction and which exits in a specific direction by reflecting the light at a light reuse sheet is represented by A. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240096 | LARGE AREA CONCENTRATOR LENS STRUCTURE AND METHOD CONFIGURED FOR STRESS RELIEF - A solar module. The solar module includes a substrate member. a plurality of photovoltaic strips arranged in an array configuration overlying the substrate member. In a specific embodiment, the solar module includes a concentrator structure comprising extruded glass material operably coupled to the plurality of photovoltaic strips. A plurality of elongated annular regions are configured within the concentrator structure. The plurality of elongated annular regions are respectively coupled to the plurality of photovoltaic strips, which are configured to one or more bus bars to maintain a desired stress range. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240097 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR SYSTEM WITH PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS - A solar energy collector system includes a solar collector configured to reflect sunlight to a diffused focal point, and a photovoltaic cell assembly carried by the solar collector. The photovoltaic cell assembly includes a collector housing positioned at the diffused focal point to receive the reflected sunlight, and photovoltaic cells within the collector housing to generate electricity based on the reflected sunlight. The collector housing includes a cooling liquid to cool the photovoltaic cells when generating the electricity. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110240098 | Modular Solar Panels with Heat Exchange - A photovoltaic module with photovoltaic cell and a heat sink. The heat sink is attached on a side of the cell opposite to the light-receiving side of the photovoltaic cell. The heat sink can remove heat caused by light absorbed by the photovoltaic cell but not converted to electricity as well as heat generated by resistance to high current passing through electrodes of the photovoltaic cell. A photovoltaic module formed of such cells can exhibit greater energy conversion efficiency as a result of the ability to dissipate the heat. A method of making a solar module involves e.g. laminating a heat sink to a photovoltaic cell. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110247677 | Temperature-controlled Photovoltaic Matrix and Method of Use - Embodiments of the disclosed technology comprise an exterior light focusing device, such as a parabolic cassegrain reflector connected via a fiber optic cable to an interior where beds or matrices of solar panels reside. The solar panels are positioned on sides of a light-disbursement device, such as a diffuser or series of mirrors/reflectors which receive an input of light from the optic cable and distribute it to solar panels/photovoltaic cells. The generated electrical energy from the solar panels may then be used to power a device, including the powering (charging) of a battery. Interior temperature of the photovoltaic cells as well as intensity and wavelength of light to the cells may be controlled. The solar panels may be constructed of materials without the need for consideration of weather resistance. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110247678 | CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE AND PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAY MODULE HAVING THE SAME - A concentrated photovoltaic module includes: a base unit including a metal conductor inserted fittingly into an insulating tubular body; a photovoltaic cell disposed in the insulating tubular body and mounted on a top end of the metal conductor; and a hollow light-guiding cover connected sealingly to the insulating tubular body such that the light-guiding cover cooperates with the base unit to define a closed inner space and such that the light-guiding cover guides light into the insulating tubular body of the base unit and onto the photovoltaic cell. The light-guiding cover and the insulating tubular body are made from the same transparent material. A photovoltaic array module including a plurality of the concentrated photovoltaic module is also disclosed. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110247679 | SOLAR RECEIVER - A lightweight reflector with a load bearing structure based on a tensile spoke-wheel. The spoke structure is especially compatible with dish parabolic mirrors, but has utility as a carrier structure for any round functional surface, including flat or slightly-curved mirrors used in central tower solar systems, parabolic dishes for radio telescopes and antennas, and for non-concentrating thin film solar panels. There are no radial members loaded in compression. All the spokes pull the rim inwards, and the rim is compressed in the circumferential direction. The imbalance in spoke tension results from the application of load provides the rigidity of the rim in respect to the hub, both for in-plane and out-of-plane forces. Ribs stiffen the spokes to resist wind and gravity, but are not structurally supported by either the hub or the rim. Lightweight reflector tiles match the wheel structure and create the reflective surface. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110247680 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM FOR AN ELECTRONIC APPLIANCE - This invention relates to a photovoltaic system for electronic appliance. The photovoltaic system comprises an energy concentrator having an outer layer ( | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110253194 | PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION - A photoelectric conversion is capable of converting the light energy into electrical power, comprising a tempered glass layer, a lens module, a substrate and a heat sink unit, wherein the lens module is formed from a plurality of lens units, which locate at one side of the tempered glass layer. A gap is formed via a plurality of protruding poles located between the lens units and the tempered glass layer. The gap is filled with transparent rubbers. A plurality of receiving units is located one side of the substrate for dissipating heat energy from the receiving units. The light energy is converted through the receiving units into the electrical energy by focusing the light to the receiving units via the tempered glass layer and the lens module. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110253195 | TORQUE TUBE SUPPORTER AND SOLAR TRACKER USING THE SAME - A torque tube supporter and a solar tracker using the same are provided. The torque tube supporter includes a cylindrical bearing supporting a cylindrical torque tube, a bearing cover having a cylindrical middle portion for supporting the bearing, a flange radially protruding from the circumference of the bearing cover, a half journal section having an arcuate upper portion to which the flange is fixed, and a post supporting the half journal section. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110253196 | Floating Solar Platform - This invention relates to a system for producing solar power, comprising a rotating, circular platform that produces solar power and rotates about a vertical axis. Said platform ( | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110259394 | Patterned glass cylindrical lens arrays for concentrated photovoltaic systems, and/or methods of making the same - Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to patterned glass that can be used as a cylindrical lens array in a concentrated photovoltaic application, and/or methods of making the same. In certain example embodiments, the lens arrays may be used in combination with strip solar cells and/or single-axis tracking systems. That is, in certain example embodiments, lenses in the lens array may be arranged so as to concentrate incident light onto respective strip solar cells, and the entire assembly may be connected to a single-axis tracking system that is programmed to follow the East-West movement of the sun. A low-iron glass may be used in connection with certain example embodiments. Such techniques may advantageously help to reduce cost per watt related, in part, to the potentially reduced amount of semiconductor material to be used for such example embodiments. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110259395 | Single Junction CIGS/CIS Solar Module - A high efficiency thin-film photovoltaic module is formed on a substrate. The photovoltaic module includes a plurality of stripe shaped photovoltaic cells electrically coupled to each other and physically disposed in parallel to the length one next to another across the width. Each cell includes a barrier material overlying the surface and a first electrode overlying the barrier material. Each cell further includes an absorber formed overlying the first electrode. The absorber includes a copper gallium indium diselenide compound material characterized by an energy band-gap of about 1 eV to 1.1 eV. Each cell additionally includes a buffer material overlying the absorber and a bi-layer zinc oxide material comprising a high resistivity transparent layer overlying the buffer material and a low resistivity transparent layer overlying the high resistivity transparent layer. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110259396 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION SYSTEM - 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. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110259397 | Rotational Trough Reflector Array For Solar-Electricity Generation - A rotational trough reflector solar-electricity generation device includes a trough reflector that rotates around a substantially vertical axis. A strip-type photovoltaic (PV) device is fixedly mounted along the focal line of the trough reflector. A tracking system rotates the trough reflector such that the trough reflector is aligned generally parallel to the incident sunlight (e.g., in a generally east-west direction at sunrise, turning to generally north-south at noon, and turning generally west-east at sunset). A disc-shaped support structure is used to distribute the reflector's weight over a larger area and to minimize the tracking system motor size. Multiple trough reflectors are mounted on the disc-shaped support to maximize power generation. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110259398 | THIN FILM SOLAR CELL AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A thin film solar cell and a method for manufacturing the same are discussed. The thin film solar cell includes a plurality of cells positioned on a substrate. Each of the plurality of cells includes a first electrode positioned on one surface of the substrate, at least one photoelectric conversion unit positioned on the first electrode, a back reflection layer including a first reflection layer contacting the at least one photoelectric conversion unit and a second reflection layer having an opening exposing a portion of the first reflection layer, and a second electrode positioned on the back reflection layer. The second reflection layer contacts the first reflection layer. The second electrode is electrically connected to the first reflection layer through the opening. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110265852 | OPEN ENCAPSULATED CONCENTRATOR SYSTEM FOR SOLAR RADIATION - The invention relates to an open concentrator system for solar radiation comprising a hollow mirror and a photovoltaic module comprising a plurality of solar cells disposed in the focus of said hollow mirror, the photovoltaic module being encapsulated by a housing. The housing is thereby configured such that it has a transparent cover at least in the region of the incident radiation reflected by the hollow mirror and such that this transparent cover is at a spacing from photovoltaic module, i.e. is situated in the cone of the incident radiation. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110265853 | DEVICE FOR GENERATING ELECTRICITY - The present disclosure relates to a device for generating electricity, having at least one solar panel comprising at least one photovoltaic cell and disposed within view of a light source. The light source is formed from at least one gas-powered lamp wherein a gas flame generated by the lamp is associated with at least one incandescent body comprising at least one transparent bell-shaped member enclosing the gas flame of the lamp forming a closed combustion chamber, characterized in that the bell-shaped member is at least partially enclosed by an at least double-walled glass dome having a vacuum between the dome walls thereof. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110265854 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A photovoltaic module is provided. The photovoltaic module includes a solar panel, a reflective insulating element, and a plate. The reflective insulation element reflects the sunlight, and the reflected sunlight passes through the solar panel, which results in an enhancement of photovoltaic effects occurred in the solar panel. A gap is disposed between the plate and the reflective insulation element, forming a hollow layer to obstruct heat conduction between the reflective insulation element and the plate effectively. The power generating efficiency and thermal-insulating ability of the photovoltaic module provided in the invention are improved. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110265855 | SOLAR RADIATION PRISMATIC CONCENTRATOR - A solar radiation collector is provided. The collector is configured to receive solar radiation from a range of angles including a first range constituting an acceptance angle, and a second range constituting angles outside said first range. It further includes a photovoltaic cell and a regulator, which is configured to regulate the appearance of the collector to an observer within the second range, constituting a source of visible radiation which is visible to an observer within the second range. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110271999 | RECEIVER FOR CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC-THERMAL SYSTEM - Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein. Examples of solar energy receivers are disclosed that may be used to collect concentrated solar radiation. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110272000 | LINEAR LOW CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATOR - A solar electricity generator including at least one cylindrical solar radiation concentrating and electrical power generating element extending along a longitudinal axis and including a sealed cylindrical tube extending along the longitudinal axis and a multiplicity of photovoltaic cells arranged in a plane and located within the sealed cylindrical tube, and at least one solar tracker operative to rotate each of the at least one cylindrical solar radiation concentrating and electrical power generating element about its the longitudinal axis. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110272001 | PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL ASSEMBLY WITH HEAT DISSIPATION FUNCTION - A photovoltaic panel assembly includes a photovoltaic panel of two opposite surfaces. A photovoltaic array is disposed on one of the two opposite surfaces. The heat sink is disposed over the other of the two opposite surfaces, wherein the heat sink comprises a wavy cross-section. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110272002 | SUNLIGHT COLLECTING SYSTEM FOR ILLUMINATION - A sunlight collecting system generally comprises a light receiving module, a first light directing pipe, a second light directing pipe, and a third light directing pipe. The light receiving module includes a primary reflector and a secondary reflector. The primary reflector is structured in a way that an array of reflecting units can condense and direct sunlight to the secondary reflector, which in turn directs the sunlight sequentially into the first, second and third light directing pipes and finally to a residence house or office building for illumination, landscape gardening, decoration, temperature adjustment, power generation, energy storage, and so on. The installation of the system allows the light receiving module to rotate horizontally or vertically around an axis to an orientation best suitable for collecting the sunlight. The system is easy to install and it collects and directs sunlight efficiently. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110277815 | Inflatable Linear Heliostatic Concentrating Solar Module - Increased utilization of solar power is highly desirable as solar power is a readily available renewable resource with power potential far exceeding total global needs; and as solar power does not contribute to pollutants associated with fossil fuel power, such as unburned hydrocarbons, NOx and carbon dioxide. The present invention provides low-cost inflatable heliostatic solar power collectors, which a range of embodiments suitable for flexible utilization in small, medium, or utility scale applications. The inflatable heliostatic power collectors use a reflective surface or membrane “sandwiched” between two inflated chambers, and attached solar power receivers which are of concentrating photovoltaic and optionally also concentrating solar thermal types. Floating embodiments are described for certain beneficial applications on. Modest concentration ratios enable benefits in both reduced cost and increased conversion efficiency, relative to simple prior-art flat plate solar collectors. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110277816 | SOLAR CELL WITH SHADE-FREE FRONT ELECTRODE - One embodiment of the present invention provides a solar cell with shade-free front electrode. The solar cell includes a photovoltaic body, a front-side ohmic contact layer situated above the photovoltaic body, a back-side ohmic contact layer situated below the photovoltaic body, a front-side electrode situated above the front-side ohmic contact layer, and a back-side electrode situated below the back-side ohmic contact layer. The front-side electrode includes a plurality of parallel metal grid lines, and the surface of at least one metal grid line is curved, thereby allowing incident light hitting the curved surface to be reflected downward and absorbed by the solar cell surface adjacent to the metal grid line. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110277817 | SOLAR CELL MODULE, SOLAR CELL AND SOLAR CELL MODULE MANUFACTURING METHOD - A solar cell module | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110277818 | PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE - Photoelectric conversion elements having configurations suitable for various applications and related components, and methods associated therewith, are described. Photoelectric conversion elements may include electrodes and be arranged in association with a light collector such that light incident on one of the electrodes of a photoelectric conversion element is rendered uneven. In some cases, the electrodes may have current extraction regions where the light collector may direct light incident on the light collector toward one current extraction region in an amount greater than another current extraction region. Photoelectric conversion elements may be disposed adjacent to one another in a manner where a portion of one photoelectric conversion element may be electrically connected with a portion of an adjacent photoelectric conversion element. Photoelectric conversion elements can also be arranged in a variety of suitable patterns. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110277819 | BIFACIAL THIN FILM SOLAR PANEL AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING THE SAME - 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. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110284053 | Rainyday volts 24/7 - This utility disclosed herein, is unique because it produces electricity twenty four (24) hours a day. It uses light emitting diodes (LED) and thin-film photovoltaic (PV) solar cells. The PV solar cells and the LED lights are self-contained in a rectangular plastic housing. When energized, the LED lights produce lights that are absorbed by the thin filmed solar cells and converted into Direct Current (DC) electricity. The PV panel, together with other electric devices or appliances produce electricity that is used for the home, farm, and business. This invention uses existing technology in combinations not used previously. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110284054 | SPECTRAL SPLITTING FOR MULTI-BANDGAP PHOTOVOLTAIC ENERGY CONVERSION - A spectrum-splitting photovoltaic converter system ( | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110290300 | PRODUCTION OF SOLAR CELL MODULES - The invention relates to the use of a) at least one polyalkyl(meth)acrylate and b) at least one compound according to formula (I), where the groups R | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110290301 | SYSTEM FOR GENERATING ELECTRIC ENERGY BY MEANS OF PHOTOVOLTAIC ELEMENTS - A system for generating electric energy uses photovoltaic elements that are disposed on a supporting structure formed, in particular, by supporting cables and adjusting cables or the like. The elements can be pivoted about at least approximately vertically oriented axes, whereby they can track the east-west movement of the sun, and they can be pivoted about at least approximately horizontally oriented axes, whereby they can be adjusted to the altitude of the sun. The photovoltaic elements are attached on several supporting beams, which are oriented at least approximately parallel to each other and approximately horizontally, the supporting beams can be pivoted at one of the two ends thereof on a supporting cable or the like about an at least approximately vertical axis and are mounted rotatably about the longitudinal axes thereof. The supporting beams are coupled at the other end thereof to a pivoting and rotating device, which is formed by at least one supporting and adjusting cable. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110297206 | CONCENTRATED SOLAR POWER RECEIVER MAINTENANCE SYSTEM - A solar receiver system that includes an integral replacement system. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297207 | SOLAR BATTERY MODULE - A solar battery module having a plurality of solar battery cells embedded in an in-plane direction in a front-surface sealing member by separating the solar battery cells at a distance therebetween, the solar battery cells being electrically connected to each other in a filling material sandwiched between the front-surface sealing member having translucency and a back-surface sealing member. The back-surface sealing member is a high reflectance portion having a high reflection rate such that an average reflection rate of light of a wavelength in a range of 400 to 1200 nanometers is equal to or higher than 50% in at least a region corresponding to the solar battery cells, and the back-surface sealing member includes a low reflectance portion having a low reflection rate such that an average reflection rate of light of a wavelength in a range of 400 to 1200 nanometers is lower than 50%, at any position between a front surface of the reflection prevention film of the solar battery cells and the back-surface sealing member, in a region between the solar battery cells adjacent to each other or in a region corresponding to a region in a thickness direction of the solar battery module. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110308571 | Light assembly having parabolic sheets - 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. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308572 | Solar collector optics - A solar collector optic system having a plurality of optics and a plurality of concentrators, where the plurality of optics directs light to the plurality of concentrators. The system has a first optic, a second optic, a first concentrator and a second concentrator. Each optic has a plurality of prisms which provide a progressive light distribution function such that as each of the plurality of prisms of the first optic is located further away from a focal line of the first concentrator, each of the plurality of prisms directs a greater amount of light to the second concentrator compared to the first concentrator. Also, as each of the plurality of prisms of the second optic is located further away from a focal line of the second concentrator, each of the plurality of prisms directs a greater amount of light to the first concentrator compared to the second concentrator. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308573 | DEVICES AND METHODS TO CREATE A DIFFUSE REFLECTION SURFACE - A photovoltaic module includes a plurality of solar cells, each solar cell having an active front side and a back side. A busbar is provided and has a first portion that is electrically connected to an active front side of a first solar cell, and a second portion that is electrically connected to a back side of a second solar cell. At least a front side of the first portion of the busbar includes a diffuse reflective coating. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308574 | SOLAR POWERED ELECTRICAL GENERATION DEVICE AND RELATED METHODS - Embodiments relate to a solar electrical power generation device, including one or more prefabricated solar photovoltaic power source units each unit including an adapter to electrically connect to other units, a moveable and adjustable frame supporting at least one of the one or more prefabricated solar photovoltaic power source units and an electrical storage device being capable of storing electrical power generated from the one or more power source units. The frame is moveable from between sites and within a site and adjustable to increase or decrease a unit angle in relation to the sun and wherein the device being capable of connecting to a utility grid or serving as a stand-alone electrical power system. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308575 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPTIMIZING AND PROTECTING SOLAR PANELS - A system and a method for optimizing and protecting solar panels, the system comprising a driving unit, a solar panel connected to the driving unit, a micro-controller controlling movements of the driving unit, a sun tracking unit sending data about the position of the sun to the micro-controller; and a shelter receiving the solar panel when the solar under control of the microcontroller. The method comprises connecting a solar panel to a driving unit connected to a microcontroller; connecting the microcontroller to a sun tracking unit sending data about the position of the sun to the microcontroller; providing a shelter; and monitoring, by the microcontroller, the driving unit into orienting the solar panel in relation to the position of the sun by rotation about at least one axis and into moving the solar panel from a deployed operating position to a sheltered non operating position into the shelter. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110315193 | PASSIVE FLOW ACCELERATOR - 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. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315194 | PHOTOELECTRIC CELL - A photoelectric cell includes at least one photoelectric conversion module. The photoelectric module includes a first photoelectric conversion element and a second photoelectric conversion element. The first photoelectric conversion element is made of a first thermoelectric material having positive thermoelectric coefficient and comprises a first absorbing part and a first non-absorbing part. The second photoelectric conversion element is made of a second thermoelectric material having negative thermoelectric coefficient and comprises a second absorbing part and a second non-absorbing part. The first absorbing part is electrically connected with the second absorbing part. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315195 | Micro-Gap Thermal Photovoltaic Large Scale Sub-Micron Gap Method and Apparatus - The present invention relates to micron-gap thermal photovoltaic (MTPV) technology for the solid-state conversion of heat to electricity. The problem is forming and then maintaining the close spacing between two bodies at a sub-micron gap in order to maintain enhanced performance. While it is possible to obtain the sub-micron gap spacing, the thermal effects on the hot and cold surfaces induce cupping, warping, or deformation of the elements resulting in variations in gap spacing thereby resulting in uncontrollable variances in the power output. A major aspect of the design is to allow for intimate contact of the emitter chips to the shell inside surface, so that there is good heat transfer. The photovoltaic cells are pushed outward against the emitter chips in order to press them against the inner wall. A high temperature thermal interface material improves the heat transfer between the shell inner surface and the emitter chip. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315196 | SOLAR CELL STRUCTURE INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF CONCENTRATOR ELEMENTS WITH A NOTCH DESIGN AND PREDETERMINED RADII AND METHOD - A solar cell concentrator structure includes a first concentrator element having a first aperture region and a first exit region including a first back surface region and a first corner region. The structure also includes a second concentrator element integrally formed with the first concentrator element. The second concentrator element includes a second aperture region and a second exit region-including a second back surface region and a second corner region. Additionally, the structure includes a first radius of curvature of 0.10 mm and less characterizing the first corner structure and the second corner structure, a first coupling region between the first exit region and a first surface region of a first photovoltaic device. The structure further includes a second radius of curvature of 0.10 mm and less characterizing a region between the first concentrator element and the second concentrator element. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315197 | Solar Energy Collection System - A solar energy collection system comprising a solar tracker characterised by comprising a main horizontal load-bearing tube able to rotate about its axis; a plurality of secondary tubes fixed in a manner movable perpendicularly to said main tube and able to rotate about their axis; to each of said secondary tubes there being fixed a panel able to capture solar energy; a support structure comprising a first post and a second post positioned vertically; said first post and said second post each comprising a connection element positioned at their top, for securing said main tube at its ends; said connection element comprising a first lateral portion for fixing said main tube and a second lateral portion for fixing a possible further main tube; said main tube comprising a slidable joint enabling it to expand, said slidable joint being fixed at one end to said main tube and at the other end to said first lateral portion; said first post and said second post comprising a coupling point at their base; said coupling point being fixed to the ground by a screw shaft; each of said first post and said second post being maintained in a vertical position by at least two cables fixed to the ground; said at least two cables being fixed to the ground by screw shafts. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20120000507 | SOLAR CELL APPARATUS - A solar cell apparatus includes a heat dissipating device and a solar cell panel. The heat dissipating device includes a heat sink, a supporting member disposed on the heat sink, a heat absorbing member disposed on the supporting member, and a heat pipe thermally contacting with the heat absorbing member and the heat sink. The solar cell panel is attached on the heat absorbing member. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000508 | THERMAL DEVICE AND PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE HAVING THE SAME - Disclosed herein are a thermal device and a photovoltaic module having the same. The photovoltaic module includes a photovoltaic device, a thermal device, and an adhesive layer. The photovoltaic device includes a front substrate, a back substrate and a photovoltaic cell disposed between the two substrates. The thermal device is disposed adjacent to the back substrate for dissipating heat away from the photovoltaic device, and includes a chassis, several pipes and a thermal carrier. The chassis having several depressed channels is disposed adjacent to the back substrate. The pipes are disposed in the depressed channels and a coolant runs through the pipes to take away heat. The thermal carrier is used to fill the depressed channels and fully covers the pipes. The adhesive layer is disposed on the chassis for adhering the chassis and the back substrate. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000509 | MULTI-DIRECTIONAL SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR SYSTEM - The present disclosure provides a multi-directional solar energy collector system. It comprises a light concentration device which includes one or plural light concentration lens and one or plural chambers. By means of the light concentration device, the incoming light can be concentrated once or multiple time, then is guided to the solar cell. The system is able to collect incoming light from various directions without consuming additional power. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120006382 | THIN AND FLAT SOLAR COLLECTOR-CONCENTRATOR - 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. The concentrator collects light from a relatively wide angle of incidence, and can therefore eliminate the need for active tracking. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006383 | HEAT EXCHANGER APPARATUS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING CROSS REFERENCE - The invention provides systems and methods for cooling semiconductor devices, such as those provided in concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) systems using a cold plate. The invention also provides using a material, such as a ceramic, to form that cold plate that matches or nearly matches the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of a photovoltaic cell. Additionally, the cooling system may include fluidic passageways through which a fluid may flow, which may result in a transfer of heat between the fluid and the solid structure. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006384 | OPTICAL LAYER FOR LIGHT CONTROL TYPE SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE, LIGHT CONTROL TYPE SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE, AND LIGHT CONTROL TYPE SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL - An optical layer for a light control type solar photovoltaic module, a light control type solar photovoltaic module, and a light control type solar photovoltaic panel having an excellent directionality to the sunlight are provided. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006385 | High Performance Multi-Layer Back Contact Stack For Silicon Solar Cells - High performance multi-layer back contact stacks for silicon solar cells and methods for manufacture are disclosed. Photovoltaic modules incorporating high performance multi-layer back contact stacks and methods for making the same are also described. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120012155 | SOLAR RECEIVER WITH FRONT AND REAR HEAT SINKS - In one aspect of the present invention, a solar receiver with an improved heat sink design will be described. The solar receiver includes a photovoltaic cell and a heat spreader plate having a frontside and an opposing backside. The photovoltaic cell is positioned on the frontside of the heat spreader plate. Multiple front and rear heat sink fins are attached to and extend out of the frontside and the backside of the heat spreader plate, respectively. In various implementations, the front heat sink fins are positioned adjacent to, above and below the photovoltaic cell. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120012156 | OPTOELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH HEAT SPREADER UNIT - A solar module includes a solar cell, a heat spreader layer disposed above the solar cell, and a cell interconnect disposed above the solar cell. From a top-down perspective, the heat spreader layer at least partially surrounds an exposed portion of the cell interconnect. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120024343 | Method and Structure for a Cool Roof by Using a Plenum Structure - A method for providing a cool roof by processing fluid within a vicinity of a roof structure having a surface area includes transferring a volume of air with a selected flow rate through a plenum structure disposed underlying one or more solar modules and coupled to the roof structure spatially over a height above a portion of the surface area. Each of the one or more solar modules is coupled to each other. The plenum structure has at least an intake region and an exit region for the volume of air. The method additionally includes maintaining a roof temperature profile for the portion of the surface area starting from the intake region to the exit region for a predetermined amount of time using at least the flow rate of the volume of air being transported through the plenum structure. The roof temperature profile comprises a first temperature value substantially equal to an ambient air temperature at the intake region to a second temperature value in the vicinity of the exit region depending on the flow rate and substantially smaller than a temperature of bare roof structure outside the portion of the surface area. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024344 | Photovoltaic solar cell overlay - This abstract describes a simple, low-cost device to improve power yields provided by fixed solar panel installations without the need to precisely position optical elements above the panel or add solar tracking and array positioning systems. The device utilizes one or more layers of optically refractive and/or diffractive materials imbued with specific contours and/or optical characteristics. The device is bonded directly to the solar array's sun-facing surface either as the array is manufactured, or retro-fitted to the array after installation. The device and bond interfaces may be comprised of any suitable optically high-transmittance material with refractive indices sufficiently higher than that of air. Additional gains in solar array power yields are made possible by the use of transparent, variable-contoured overlays or fluid-filled polymeric film overlays with modifiable optical characteristics which adapt to sun angle. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120031463 | Stationary Sunlight Redirecting System For Increasing The Efficiency Of Fixed-Tilt PV Farm - A low-cost system for increasing the electricity generation of flat panel photovoltaic (PV) farms in which sunlight redirecting elements are positioned in offset spaces provided between adjacent panel assemblies and serve to redirect otherwise unused sunlight onto solar cells disposed on one of the panel assemblies. The redirecting elements are located in a prismatic volume bounded at its upper end by an inclined upper plane that extends across the offset space separating adjacent PV panel assemblies. The redirecting elements are either mounted to at least one of the PV panel assemblies, or placed on the ground between the assemblies. Each redirecting element includes multiple reflecting and/or refracting surfaces that utilize a disclosed microoptical arrangement (e.g., focus and steer or reorient and scatter) to distribute the redirected sunlight in a substantially homogenous (uniform) distribution on the solar cells. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031464 | DIODE AND HEAT SPREADER FOR SOLAR MODULE - Arrangements of diodes and heat spreaders for solar modules are described. For example, a solar module may include a backsheet with a low profile, surface-mount diode disposed above the backsheet. A pair of ribbon interconnects is coupled to the low profile, surface-mount diode and may penetrate the backsheet. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031465 | SOLAR MODULE IN AN INSULATING GLASS COMPOSITE METHOD FOR PRODUCTION AND USE - Solar module comprising a number of solar cells, arranged and fixed in an insulating glass composite in the cavity between a front and a rear pane, wherein the solar cells are fixed to the inside of at least one of the panes by soldering. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031466 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONVERTING INCIDENT RADIATION INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY USING AN UPCONVERSION PHOTOLUMINESCENT SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - Device and method for converting incident radiation into electrical energy using an upconversion photoluminescent solar concentrator is disclosed. An upconversion photoluminescent solar concentrator device includes a waveguide. The waveguide has a waveguide medium. An upconversion chromophore is in contact with the waveguide medium. The upconversion chromophore is configured to absorb an incident photon. The upconversion chromophore is also configured to emit an emitted photon. The emitted photon has higher energy than the incident photon. A photovoltaic device absorbs the emitted photon, generating electricity. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120037204 | SOLAR SYSTEM AND SOLAR TRACKING METHOD FOR SOLAR SYSTEM - The invention provides a solar system and a solar tracking method for a solar system. An exemplary embodiment of a solar system includes a substrate comprising a solar cell array disposed thereon. An optical element array is disposed over the substrate to concentrate sunbeams onto the solar cell array. An actuator is affixed to the substrate, wherein the actuator shifts the substrate along an axis direction. A feedback module is electrically coupled to the substrate and the actuator, wherein the feedback module respectively measures a first, a second and a third voltage of the solar cell array corresponding to the first, the second and the third position, and finds a maximum voltage among the first, second and third voltages, thereby defining a maximum feedback position at which the maximum voltage occurs. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120037205 | Solar Cell Concentrator - In this presentation, we have shown new methods, devices, and systems, to concentrate the light for the solar cells, using refractive index variations, light funnels, liquid crystals, and other methods and materials. We have shown various methods for enhancing the solar cell efficiency. We have given many variations for each application. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120037206 | SYSTEMS FOR COST EFFECTIVE CONCENTRATION AND UTILIZATION OF SOLAR ENERGY - The present invention is primarily directed to improvements to cost-effective systems for concentrating and using solar energy. The present invention co-optimizes the frame and the primary mirrors and secondary concentrator for a cost-effective very high concentration quasi-parabolic dish system that uses no moulded optics for the primary concentration, and also optimizes fabrication jigs for the main components of that design. The present invention also optimizes cell contacts and provides cost effective receiver cooling for dense receiver arrays for very high concentration photovoltaic systems. The present invention also includes a semi-dense receiver array that can provide a higher acceptance angle than a dense receiver array, and finally includes mutual-shading impact minimization methods and apparatus compatible with very high concentration photovoltaic systems. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120037207 | OPTICAL LAYER FOR LIGHT CONTROL TYPE SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE, LIGHT CONTROL TYPE SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE, AND LIGHT CONTROL TYPE SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL - An optical layer for a light control type solar photovoltaic module, a light control type solar photovoltaic module, and a light control type solar photovoltaic panel have an excellent directionality to the sunlight are provided. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120037208 | THIN FILM SOLAR CELL STRUCTURE - A thin film solar cell structure and method of fabricating a thin film solar cell structure. The thin film solar cell structure comprises a photoelectric conversion structure; a grating coupler for coupling incident light into the photoelectric conversion structure; and a resonator structure for providing a light trapping in the photoelectric conversion structure. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120037209 | METHOD FOR TRACKING A SOLAR GENERATOR TO THE SUN, CONTROL FOR A SOLAR PLANT AND SOLAR PLANT - The present invention describes a method for tracking a solar generator having a plurality of solar modules to the sun, wherein at least one electric output quantity of part of the solar module of the solar generator is detected and a tracker, on which the solar generator is mounted, is controlled such that the detected electric output quantity has a predetermined value. Further, a control for a solar plant and a solar plant having such a control are described. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120037210 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE WITH COOLNG DEVICE AND MANUFACTURING METHOD OF COOLING DEVICE - The present invention relates to a photovoltaic module with a cooling device and a method of manufacturing the cooling device. The photovoltaic module includes a photovoltaic module, a cooling chamber and a heat sink. The photovoltaic module includes solar cells connected to each other in series and in parallel. The cooling chamber includes an upper plate, a lower plate and a working fluid. The upper plate is attached to the photovoltaic module and has a flange formed on the edge thereof. The lower plate has a flange formed on the edge thereof. The flanges of the upper and lower plates are joined to each other so that an inner space is defined between the upper and lower plates. The working fluid is injected into the inner space so that a cooling operation can be carried out by means of boiling and condensing. The heat sink is in surface contact with the lower plate of the cooling chamber. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120042931 | INTERFEROMETRIC MASKS - An interferometric mask covering the front electrodes of a photovoltaic device is disclosed. Such an interferometric mask may reduce reflections of incident light from the electrodes. In various embodiments, the mask reduces reflections so that a front electrode pattern appears similar in color to adjacent regions of visible photovoltaic active material. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120042932 | SOLAR COLLECTOR - The present invention relates to a solar energy collector suitable for use in a solar energy collection system. The solar energy collection system includes the collector, a stand that supports the collector and a tracking system that causes the collector to track movements of the sun along at least one axis. The collector includes one or more reflector panels, one or more solar receivers, and a space frame support structure that physically supports the reflector panels and solar receivers. In a particular embodiment, the space frame support structure includes struts that extend through a gap between the reflector panels to support the one or more receivers. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120055537 | LIGHT TRAPPING PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS - A light trapping photovoltaic cell comprising a plurality of cells connected with walls wherein the cells have a plurality of generally straight vertical walls and a bottom region adjacent the generally vertical walls. The bottom region of the cells is pitched toward the center of the bottoms. The light trapping cells provide a structure that allows for improved absorption of incident light. Optionally, a light trapping photovoltaic cell may further comprise a hydrophobic protective layer such as, for example, may be provided by a plurality of nano-sized bumps on the surfaces of the cell walls. Additionally, the cells may exhibit other properties including, for example, deicing, anti-fouling, and self-cleaning. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120055538 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module is discussed. The solar cell module includes a plurality of solar cells each including a substrate and an anti-reflection layer positioned on the substrate, a protective member surrounding the plurality of solar cells, and a transparent member positioned on the protective member. The protective member is formed of a silicon resin. The anti-reflection layer includes a first anti-reflection layer positioned on the substrate and a second anti-reflection layer positioned on the first anti-reflection layer. The first anti-reflection layer and the second anti-reflection layer are formed of different materials. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120060895 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE STRING ARRANGEMENT AND SHADING PROTECTION THEREFOR - A method and apparatus for protecting a string of solar cells from shading in a solar panel having a plurality of strings of solar cells are described. Electric current is shunted around any string of the solar cells having at least one shaded solar cell by shunting the electric current through electrical conductors and a bypass diode located in a perimeter margin of a substrate supporting the solar cells such that no matter which string has a shaded solar cell current through the string with the shaded solar cell is shunted through electrical conductors and a respective bypass diode located in the perimeter margin. This distributes dissipation of heat from respective bypass diodes that are associated with strings having at least one shaded solar cell, to different locations around the perimeter margin. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120060896 | Device and method for cooling solar cells by means of a flowing cooling medium - A device for cooling solar cells by a flowing cooling medium is provided. The cooling medium is in direct or indirect thermal contact with at least one solar cell and with an external cooling unit. The cooling medium at least partially includes a phase transition material. Further, a method for cooling solar cells is provided. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120067396 | Hydrophobic Solar Concentrator and Method of Using and Forming the Hydrophobic Solar Concentrator - A solar concentrator is implemented with a plate structure that has a surface and one or more hydrophobic regions on the surface of the plate structure. The plate structure is transparent to visible light. A fluid is sprayed onto the surface of the plate structure where the fluid forms droplets on the hydrophobic regions. The droplets capture substantially all angles of incident solar radiation and deliver concentrated solar radiation to a corresponding number of solar cells. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120067397 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING PLACEMENT OF PHOTOVOLTAIC STRIPS USING DISPLACEMENT SENSORS - A method for forming a solar energy collection device includes receiving a sheet of glass comprising glass material, wherein the sheet of glass includes a plurality of light concentrating geometric features, measuring geometric characteristics for the plurality of light concentrating geometric features, mathematically calculating predicted light concentration characteristics for each of the plurality of light concentrating geometric features in response to the geometric characteristics, determining placement locations for a plurality of PV strips in response to the predicted light concentration characteristics for each of the plurality of light concentrating geometric features, and securing the plurality of PV strips relative to the sheet of glass in response to the placement locations for the plurality of PV strips. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120067398 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LAMINATING PHOTOVOLTAIC STRUCTURES - A method for forming a laminated photovoltaic structure includes providing a sheet of transparent material having light concentrating features, disposing adhesive material adjacent to the sheet of transparent material, disposing photovoltaic strips adjacent to the adhesive material, wherein the photovoltaic strips are positioned relative to the sheet of transparent material in response to exitant light characteristics of the light concentrating features, wherein photovoltaic strips are coupled via associated bus bars, wherein gap regions are located between bus bars of neighboring photovoltaic strips, disposing a rigid layer of material adjacent to the photovoltaic strips to form a composite photovoltaic structure; and thereafter laminating the composite photovoltaic structure to fill the gap regions with adhesive material and to form the laminated photovoltaic structure, wherein adhesive material adheres to the bus bars. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120067399 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE WITH CERAMIC COATING HEAT RADIATING SHEET - The present invention relates to a photovoltaic module characterized by comprising a heat radiating sheet overlaid with a ceramic coating layer, which is attached to a conventional photovoltaic module. In a method of increasing heat radiation with the aid of the ceramic coating layer provided on both sides or one side of the heat radiating sheet, heat generated by a solar cell due to the differences in thermal emissivity, thermal shear rate and surface area of a material is transferred to a solar EVA and then a heat radiating sheet thin plate that serves as a carrier, and returns back to the ceramic coating layer for emission. A high thermal emissivity is obtained by having a so-called heat transfer phenomenon in one direction, which resultantly improves a heat radiation performance and increases the refrigeration efficiency of the photovoltaic module and its peripheral devices to thus lower the internal temperature. As such, the power generation rate and efficiency through a module to which the heat radiating sheet is applied can be maximized, and a photovoltaic module with such a heat radiating sheet can maintain a change in the power generation rate traditionally due to a change in the surface temperature at a constant level, thereby increasing the annual power generation rate by 3-5% compared to that of the conventional one and improving the power generation effect during the summer season by 5-10%. Further, wide applicability can be ensured by equally applying the photovoltaic module of the present invention to areas having severe heat or high-temperature and high-humidity tropical weather as well as desert areas. In addition, the photovoltaic module according to the present invention is advantageous in that it is applicable not only to a new module but also to an already existing module, which makes it possible to manufacture those photovoltaic modules under the same process conditions as with the conventional ones without modifying the existing equipment. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120067400 | PHOTOVOLTAIC APPARATUS INCLUDING AN OPTICAL ELEMENT PRODUCING A MODULATED REGION OF LIGHT INTENSITY - Various photovoltaic apparatus such as an optical coupling arrangement, an integrated photovoltaic cell assembly, a photovoltaic module or a concentrating photovoltaic system each include an optical element having a plano-piano body formed of a first material having a greater refraction index n | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120067401 | VARIABLE LIGHT CONDENSING LENS APPARATUS AND SOLAR CELL APPARATUS - It is desirable to provide a variable light condensing lens apparatus and a solar cell apparatus provided therewith in a simple configuration, yet capable of reducing dependency of light condensing efficiency on the angle of incidence of light and thereby improving power generation efficiency of the solar cell apparatus. The variable light condensing lens apparatus according to the present disclosure is provided with a translucent support having a hydrophilic photocatalyst on a surface thereof and a first translucent liquid supported on the surface of the translucent support in contact therewith and the solar cell apparatus according to the present disclosure is provided with a solar cell element, a pair of electrodes connected to the solar cell element and the variable light condensing apparatus according to the present disclosure disposed opposed to the solar cell element. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120067402 | SOLAR COLLECTION AND LIGHT REGULATION APPARATUS - A solar window apparatus for collecting solar energy and regulating light transmission is provided in which the solar window comprises a plurality of transparent optical elements adhered to an internal surface of a transparent pane. The optical elements each comprise an externally facing surface and an internally facing light collecting surface with a light collecting element adhered thereto, where the externally facing surface preferably has an area that is larger than that of the light collecting surface. Each optical element further comprises two or more light directing surfaces that internally reflect and concentrate light onto the light collecting elements when light is incident over a first range of angles, and transmit light when light is incident over a second range of angles. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120073625 | Air supported photovoltaic system - An air supported photovoltaic system includes a primary inflatable member with at least one facet thereon and a curved surface configured to rock the inflatable member and change the orientation of the facet to angle it towards the sun. A flexible array of photovoltaic cells is applied to the facet. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120073626 | LIGHT CONCENTRATOR ASSEMBLY AND SOLAR CELL APPARATUS HAVING SAME - A light concentrator assembly includes a first Fresnel lens, a second Fresnel lens, and a compound parabolic concentrator. The first Fresnel lens includes a first flat surface and an opposite first Fresnel lens surface. The second Fresnel lens includes a second flat surface and an opposite second Fresnel lens surface facing the first Fresnel lens surface. A first focal point of the first Fresnel lens and a second focal point of the second Fresnel lens coincide. The compound parabolic concentrator is located opposite the second flat surface. Light beams are converged by the first and second Fresnel lenses, and exit through the compound parabolic concentrator. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120073627 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module that is prevented from being damaged by the wind and can be installed at low cost is provided. The solar cell module includes a supporting substrate, a plurality of first cells, and a plurality of second cells. The first cell is disposed so as to form an angle a between the first cell and the supporting substrate. The second cell is disposed so as to form an angle b between the second cell and the first cell and so as to form the angle a+the angle b between the second cell and the supporting substrate. A light-receiving surface of the first cell and a light-receiving surface of the second cell face each other. The module can be installed substantially horizontally to the level ground without impairing power generation capability. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120073628 | COATING AGENT FOR SOLAR CELL MODULE, AND SOLAR CELL MODULE AND PRODUCTION METHOD FOR THE SOLAR CELL MODULE - The present invention relates to a coating agent for a solar cell module obtained by dispersing silica fine particles (A) with an average particle diameter of 15 nm or less and low-refractive index resin particles (B) with a refractive index of 1.36 or less in an aqueous medium, in which the solid content is 5% by mass or less, and the mass ratio of the silica fine particles (A) to the low-refractive index resin particles (B) in the solid content (silica fine particles (A)/low-refractive index resin particles (B)) is more than 20/80 and less than 70/30. The coating agent for a solar cell module is capable of forming an anti-reflection film at room temperature with excellent reflectance-reducing effect, abrasion resistance and weather resistance. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120080070 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES - In one aspect of the present invention, a photovoltaic device having a down-converting layer is presented. The device includes a glass plate having a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is exposed to ambient radiation. A transparent conductive layer is disposed adjacent to the second surface of the glass plate. The device further includes a first type semiconductor layer disposed adjacent to the transparent conductive layer and a second type semiconductor layer disposed adjacent to the first type semiconductor layer. The down-converting layer is interposed between the second surface of the glass plate and the transparent conducting layer. The down-converting layer exhibits an effective refractive index that has a value between the respective refractive indices of the glass plate and the transparent conductive layer. A photovoltaic module having a plurality of such photovoltaic devices is also presented. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120080071 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GENERATING ENERGY FROM PARKING SHADE STRUCTURES - A system for automatically providing shade to a parking space and transducing incident energy into electricity for storage and redistribution, including a generally vertically extending first support member having a proximal end anchored to the ground and an oppositely positioned distal end and an energy transaction portion connected near the proximal end of the first support member, which further includes a housing, a microprocessor portion positioned in the housing and operationally connected to a computer network, an energy metering portion positioned in the housing and operationally connected to the microprocessor, an energy inlet portion operationally connected to the housing and the energy metering portion, and an energy outlet portion operationally connected to the housing and the energy metering portion. The system further includes an energy storage portion operationally connected to the energy metering portion, energy inlet portion and to the energy outlet portion, and a solar panel for transducing incident sunlight into electricity and for providing parking shade operationally connected near the distal end of the first support member and to the energy inlet portion. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120080072 | Renewable energy system - Electrical power is generated from solar and wind sources thus reducing the need for fuel oil at military forward operating bases and main operating bases. A wind turbine and a solar cell panel are connected to a battery bank. Both the turbine and the solar cells are stored in two standard military shipping containers. When transported to the desired location, these sub-systems are easily set up for operation. The entire apparatus may be disassembled for re-transport and use at another location. Necessary container modifications to connect the system for use are made in such a way as not to alter the container's outside envelope, thus enabling normal transport of the container without damage to the modifications. Each of the solar cells have discs attached so that the solar panel can be assembled in the field by sliding each disc into a mounting channel. This disc and channel structure also allows each cell to be stored in the shipping container by using similar channels mounted back to back in a storage frame located in one of the containers. The solar panel is pivotally mounted in proximity to an edge of the shipping container using mounting elements which interfit with the already provided lift fittings on the container. A wiring harness plugs each solar cell to a conduit for connection to the battery charging system | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120080073 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR HARVESTING ENERGY AND METHODS FOR FORMING SUCH DEVICES - Energy harvesting devices include a substrate coupled with a photovoltaic material and a plurality of resonance elements associated with the substrate. The resonance elements are configured to collect energy in at least visible and infrared light spectra. Each resonance element is capacitively coupled with the photovoltaic material, and may be configured to resonate at a bandgap energy of the photovoltaic material. Systems include a photovoltaic material coupled with a feedpoint of a resonance element. Methods for harvesting energy include exposing a resonance element having a resonant electromagnetic radiation having a frequency between approximately 20 THz and approximately 1,000 THz, absorbing at least a portion of the electromagnetic radiation with the resonance element, and resonating the resonance element at a bandgap energy of an underlying photovoltaic material. Methods for forming an energy harvesting device include forming resonance elements on a substrate and capacitively coupling the resonance elements with a photovoltaic material. | 04-05-2012 |
| 20120085388 | DUAL TOWER SOLAR TRACKER SYSTEM - Energy collection systems, such as solar power generation systems, are useful for many applications. Existing support structures for solar panels are either static or arranged on a vertical pole or other assembly that enables rotation of the solar panels to track the sun about one or two axes. An embodiment of the present invention includes a multi-tower assembly, such as a dual tower assembly, that supports a solar panel assembly having a lower height-to-width ratio of the solar panel assembly than may be supported by a single tower design and includes a mount configured to rotate upon which the dual tower assembly is supported. A base support structure that may support the dual tower and solar panel assembly may be provided such that the system may be mounted on a ground treatment assembly on an unstable ground, such as a landfill, or other ground surface, to use the unstable ground as a venue for producing renewable energy. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120085389 | LIGHT CONCENTRATOR ASSEMBLY AND SOLAR CELL APPARATUS HAVING SAME - A light concentrator assembly includes a Fresnel lens, a plano-concave lens, and a CPC. The CPC is aligned with the Fresnel lens and the plano-concave lens. The Fresnel lens unit is configured for converging parallel light transmitted the Fresnel lens. The plano-concave lens is configured for further concentrating the light from the Fresnel lens before the light converged at a point. The CPC is configured for reflecting and directing the light beams from the plano-concave lens to exit through a light output opening of the CPC. The light concentrator assembly has a large incident acceptance angle. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120085390 | INTEGRATED SHIPPING AND INSTALLATION RACKING - The present invention relates to an adjustable racking system for transporting and mounting one or more solar panels to, for example, a rooftop. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120090661 | INDIVIDUALLY ENCAPSULATED SOLAR CELLS AND SOLAR CELL STRINGS - Methods and devices are provided for improved environmental protection for photovoltaic devices and assemblies. In one embodiment, the device comprises of an individually encapsulated solar cell, wherein the encapsulated solar cell includes at least one protective layer coupled to at least one surface of the solar cell. The protective layer has a chemical composition that prevents moisture from entering the solar cell and wherein light passes through the protective layer to reach an absorber layer in the solar cell. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120097211 | Electric power generators and systems comprising same - An electric power generator comprising: at least one lighter than air balloon (LAB) with at least one photovoltaic array (PVA) embedded in a surface thereof; and a cable connecting the LAB to the ground and adapted to convey a buoyant gas to an inner volume of the LAB and also to convey an electric current generated by said PVA to a ground installation. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120097212 | TRANSDUCER AND METHOD USING PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS - Photovoltaic cells may be distributed upon an inner surface of a perimeter of a tubular structure. The tubular structure may be installed in the roof of a habitable or uninhabitable structure to provide low-profile solar energy. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120097213 | BIFACIAL PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE WITH REFLECTIVE ELEMENTS AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME - For use in building and construction, a bifacial photovoltaic module having at least one reflective element disposed on a surface of a light transmitting substrate such that a portion of the solar radiation passing through the sheet of light-transmitting substrate is reflected off of the reflective element so as to be capable of conversion to electrical energy by a photoactive portion of the photovoltaic module. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120097214 | SOLAR TRACKING AND CONCENTRATION DEVICE - A solar tracking and concentration device, including at least one reflecting unit, a receiving unit, a controlling device, and a sensing device, is provided. The reflecting unit having a reflecting surface reflects and concentrates sunlight. The receiving unit having a receiving surface is used to receive the sunlight reflected and reflected by the reflecting unit. The receiving unit and the reflecting unit face each other. According to the position and the time of the reflecting unit, the controlling device controls a rotation angle of the reflecting unit. The sensing device on the receiving unit may detect an inclination direction of the reflecting unit and output a first feedback signal to the controlling device to calibrate a direction of the reflecting unit facing the sun. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120097215 | Method For Manufacturing Photovoltaic Cells With Multiple Junctions And Multiple Electrodes - A photovoltaic device and method of manufacture of a photovoltaic device including an assembly of at least two photovoltaic cells; and a lamination material inserted between each photovoltaic cell, each photovoltaic cell including: two current output terminals; at least one photovoltaic junction; current collection buses; and connection strips extending from the current collection buses to the current output terminals, all the current output terminals being placed on a single surface of the photovoltaic device. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120103392 | STRETCHABLE PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES ON WAVY SUBSTRATES - An electronics module has a wavy substrate having ridges and creases, and an array of functional components on the substrate, the functional components including solar components and arranged on the substrate so at least one of the components lies between the creases. A method of manufacturing an electronics module includes providing functional components, at least one of the functional components being a portion of a solar cell, mounting the functional components on a flexible substrate, and forming creases and ridges in the flexible substrate, such that the functional components are arranged to reside between the creases. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120103393 | SOLAR SENSING SYSTEM AND SOLAR TRACKING METHOD THEREOF - This invention discloses a solar sensing system and a solar tracking method thereof. The solar sensing system comprises a solar module, an azimuth sensor unit, an elevation sensor unit and a driving unit. The azimuth sensor unit and the elevation sensor unit are disposed on the surface of the solar module. The azimuth sensor unit senses sunlight to generate an azimuth signal. The driving unit receives the azimuth signal to turn the solar module until the azimuth sensor unit is aligned precisely towards the sunlight. The elevation sensor unit senses the sunlight to generate an elevation signal. The driving unit receives the elevation signal to turn the solar module until the elevation sensor unit is aligned precisely towards the sunlight. If the azimuth sensor unit and the elevation sensor unit are aligned precisely towards the sunlight, the solar module will also be aligned precisely towards the sunlight. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120103394 | Solar Energy Collection Devices - Devices and methods for collecting solar energy using photovoltaic material are disclosed. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120111389 | APPARATUS FOR TRACKING AND CONDENSING SUNLIGHT OF SLIDING TYPE - Disclosed is an apparatus for tracking and condensing sunlight of a sliding type which tracks a direction of sunlight according to variations of an altitude or orbit of the sun, pivots a solar module plate to maximize condensing efficiency, and strengthens a fixing structure on an inclined ground or inclined building surface by using a frame structure on the bottom without using a concrete base harmful to natural environment. The apparatus includes: a lower structure; an upper structure which is formed on a top end of the lower structure in the shape of an inverse triangle and has a space portion at the center, a rotation shaft including a bearing being formed on, a top end of which; a solar module plate which condenses sunlight; a rotation plate which pivots in the left-right direction as a central portion of a bottom surface of which is fixed to a top end of the rotation shaft, the solar module plate being formed on a top surface of which; a roller guide which is formed in the space portion at the center of the upper structure along a rotation radius around the rotation shaft; a rotation push rod roller which is formed to be movable with the roller guide; respective rotation push rods which have one ends fixed to both sides of the bottom surface of the rotation plate and the other ends hinge-coupled to the rotation push rod roller; a motor which is formed on the lower structure; a rack pinion which converts a rotational motion of the motor into a linear motion; a driven pipe which is formed on the lower structure and coupled to the rack pinion to perform a linear motion in the left-right direction; and a roller link which has one side hinge-coupled to the driven pipe and the other side hinge-coupled to the rotation push rod roller, and moves the rotation push rod roller along the roller guide in the rotation radius, when the driven pipe moves horizontally. Therefore, the apparatus tracks the direction of sunlight according to variations of the altitude or orbit of the sun, pivots the solar module plate to maximize condensing efficiency, and provides the structure strong against wind or load by firmly fixing the means for fixing and pivoting the solar module plate. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120111390 | HIGHLY CONCENTRATING SOLAR POWER GENERATION AND THERMAL COLLECTION APPARATUS - A highly concentrating solar power generation and thermal collection apparatus includes a multi-coated lens capable of reflecting UV light and visible light and allowing infrared light to transmit therethrough, a lens located at one side of the multi-coated lens for collecting and then concentrating sunlight on the multi-coated lens, a solar cell located on a light reflection path of the multi-coated lens for collecting the UV light and visible light reflected by the multi-coated lens, and a thermal collection unit located at a light transmission path of the multi-coated lens for collecting the infrared light transmitted through the multi-coated lens. The multi-coated lens can be differently designed to change its light reflecting and transmitting function while the locations for the solar cell and the thermal collection unit are exchanged accordingly. Therefore, the apparatus is able to generate power and collect thermal energy from sunlight at the same time. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120118351 | SOLAR ELECTRICITY GENERATION SYSTEM - A solar electricity generator including an array of photovoltaic power generating elements, and a single continuous smooth solar reflecting surface, the surface being arranged to reflect light from the sun onto the array of photovoltaic power generating elements, wherein the flux per area at a point of minimum flux per area on the array is approximately 75% of the flux per area at a point of maximum flux per area, the intercept factor of the array is at least 70%, and the optical fill factor of the array is at least 60%. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120118352 | PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION MODULE AND PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE - A reflection member is provided for a space between photoelectric conversion cells or a periphery of the photoelectric conversion cells, which is the place not provided with the photoelectric conversion cell, so that a peak portion of the reflection member is higher than a surface of the photoelectric conversion cells. Accordingly; light having entered the space between the photoelectric conversion cells or the periphery of the photoelectric conversion cells, which does not contribute to power generation under normal circumstances, can be guided to the photoelectric conversion cell through reflection by the reflection member. Note that since the peak portion of the reflection member is higher than the surface of the photoelectric conversion cells, sunlight can be guided to the photoelectric conversion cell through one-time reflection, whereby the object can be achieved. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120125398 | CONDENSING LENS FOR HIGH CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - The present invention discloses a manufacturing method of a condensing lens for a high concentration photovoltaic (HCPV) module. A buffer layer made of silicone is added between a glass and the condensing lens for adhering the glass to the condensing lens. Because the buffer layer can be formed on the glass before adhering to the condensing lens, a higher temperature for increasing adhesion between the glass and the buffer layer can be applied. It also allows the follow-up processes to have sufficient treatment time, thereby increasing the flexibility of processing schedule. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125399 | SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM - A solar panel assembly having a foundation tube, a rotary actuator mounted in the foundation tube for changing the azimuth of the panel and a linear actuator mounted to the foundation tube for controlling the elevation angle of the panel. The linear actuator utilizes a spindle drive. The rotary actuator includes a motor and gearbox; a drive screw connected to the motor; a spindle screw, one end of which provides an output of the rotary actuator; a drive nut having a first threaded hole for receiving a thread of the drive screw and a second threaded hole for receiving a thread of the spindle screw, the guide nut having a guide fin; and a guide rail interacting with the nut guide fin to constrain the nut from rotating, whereby the rotation of the drive by screw by operation of the motor causes the nut to translate linearly which in turn causes the spindle screw to rotate. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125400 | METHOD OF MANUFACTURING LARGE DISH REFLECTORS FOR A SOLAR CONCENTRATOR APPARATUS - Glass reflectors for concentrating sunlight in a solar energy system are disclosed. A concave mold is used to shape the glass reflectors in which the surface of the mold that contacts the float glass has a grooved surface profile comprising a plurality of cusps. The surface of the mold also has a plurality of concave valleys. Glass reflectors are preferably manufactured by heating a sheet of float glass positioned over the mold until the sheet of glass sags to contact the mold. If necessary, the glass may also stretch to conform to the shape of the mold. In the case of large monolithic glass reflectors, the edges of the dish-shaped glass are rolled around the periphery of the mold. The glass reflector is then silvered to create a dish-shaped mirror that reflects solar radiation to a focus. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125401 | Solar Collector Positioning Apparatus - A solar collector positioning apparatus including a base structure and an intermediate frame connected to the base structure by at least two base support legs. The base support legs have a hinged connection to the base structure and a hinged connection to the intermediate frame, thereby constraining the movement of the intermediate frame to a plane substantially orthogonal to a plane occupied by the base structure. A solar collector support frame is connected to the intermediate frame by at least two intermediate support legs. The intermediate support legs have a hinged connection to the solar collector support frame and a hinged connection to the intermediate frame, thereby constraining the movement of the solar collector support frame to a plane substantially orthogonal to a plane occupied by the intermediate frame. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125402 | SOLAR CELL MOUNTING SYSTEM - A solar cell assembly includes a light concentrator attached to one face of a solar cell. The solar cell is attached to an electrical connector having an insulating substrate, a first electrically conductive terminal including a flat plate portion mounted to the insulating substrate, and a second electrically conductive terminal mounted to the insulating substrate. The second terminal has a U-shaped plate portion that partially circumscribes the first terminal, including opposing first and second legs and a web interconnecting the first and second legs. Each leg includes a flexibly resilient wing, the two wings being disposed in opposing relationship. The solar cell is interposed between the first terminal and the wings of the second terminal such that the first terminal abuts one face of the solar cell and the wings of the second terminal abut exposed, spaced apart, opposing perimeter areas of the other face of the solar cell, with the wings resiliently coupling the solar cell to the first and second terminals. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125403 | Photovoltaic Flat Panel With Enhanced Acceptance Angle Comprising Micro-Lens Array In Laminating Film - The integrated system for the conversion of solar energy into eco-compatible energy, comprises panels destined for the reception of solar rays, and is characterized by the presence in the panels of:
| 05-24-2012 |
| 20120125404 | MODULAR SYSTEM FOR CONCENTRATION OF SOLAR RADIATION - Modular solar radiation concentrator system, which consists of using several flat reflectors mounted on a platform that transmits to each reflector rotation about two axes, allowing the concentration of solar radiation in an area or specific predetermined point in space. Each module is connected to a monitoring instrument, with specific software that allows knowing the sun's apparent path at the system installation site. Thus, the control of all reflectors of each module is conducted on their two axes of rotation so that solar radiation is, in every moment of the day, and every day of the year, focused or simply deviated to a particular point. The system described is specially devoted to solar concentration for the purpose of generating electricity, heat or both simultaneously, especially in buildings where the point of concentration may be, among others, a Stirling engine, a steam turbine or photovoltaic cells. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120132254 | SOLAR TRACKER DEVICE - A solar tracker device based on a mechanical technique adapted to synchronously rotate mounted solar panels or mirrors along their approximate main axis, in one or two directions. The device enables building large solar fields with multiple panels or mirrors each rotated along its approximate location of its own main axis by single motor per axis. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120138119 | PACKAGE STRUCTURE OF SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A package structure of solar photovoltaic module and method of manufacturing the same are provided. The package structure of solar photovoltaic module includes a transparent substrate, a backsheet disposed opposite to the transparent substrate, a plurality of solar cells between the transparent substrate and the backsheet, and several encapsulants sandwiched in between the transparent substrate and the backsheet, wherein the encapsulants encapsulate the solar cells. There is at least one embossing interface between the encapsulants, and the encapsulant having the embossing interface is a thermosetting material. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120138120 | DIMENSIONAL SOLAR CELLS AND SOLAR PANELS - A dimension solar panel including a plurality of solar cells that are arranged in a spacing. The solar panel has a convex configuration so that the solar panel comprises at least 10 percent more solar cells than a flat solar panel with a plurality of solar cells that are arranged in the spacing. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120138121 | ADAPTIVE CONTROLLABLE LENSES FOR SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION - A solar cell assembly, including an electric-optically transducing layer, an electrically conducting layer, and an electrically insulating layer positioned between the electric-optically transducing layer and the electrically conducting layer. The assembly includes a hydrophobic layer, a dielectric layer positioned between the electrically conducting layer and the hydrophobic layer, and a liquid microdroplet lens positioned in contact with the hydrophobic layer. The electrically conducting layer, the electrically conducting layer, the hydrophobic layer and the dielectric layer are substantially optically transparent. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120138122 | PARABOLIC LIGHT CONCENTRATING TROUGH - Apparatus and methods are provided for use with photovoltaic cells, light emitting devices and the like. Reflective regions are formed on a sheet of flexible, non-metallic sheet material. The sheet material is folded to at least partially define a finished shape. Supports complete and maintain the folded condition such that one or more truncated parabolic troughs are defined. Incident light may be received and concentrated, or emitted light concentrated and projected, by way of the troughs. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120138123 | ENHANCED SOLAR PANELS, LIQUID DELIVERY SYSTEMS AND ASSOCIATED PROCESSES FOR SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS - Fluid delivery systems and related structures and processes are provided, such as for use with water, treated water, and/or a cleaning solution, for any of cleaning, cooling or any combination thereof, for one or more solar panels in a power generation environment. Enhanced coatings are provided for the incident surface of solar panels, such as to avoid build up of dirt, scale, or other contaminants, and/or to improve cleaning performance. Reclamation, filtration, and reuse structures are preferably provided for the delivered fluid, and seal structures may preferably be implemented between adjoining panels, to minimize loss of the delivered water or cleaning solution. The fluid delivery system may preferably be linked to an automated control system, such as but not limited to integrated DMPPT modules and related systems. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120145219 | CORROSION RESISTANT SOLAR MIRROR - A reflective article includes a transparent substrate having a first major surface and a second major surface. A base coat is formed over at least a portion of the second major surface. A primary reflective coating having at least one metallic layer is formed over at least a portion of the base coat. A protective coating is formed over at least a portion of the primary reflective coating. The article further includes a solar cell and an anode, with the solar cell connected to the metallic layer and the anode. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120145220 | DICHROIC MIRROR HAVING TRANSPARENT BONDING LAYER AND SUNLIGHT COLLECTING DEVICE HAVING SAME - A dichroic mirror includes a first transparent substrate. In addition, the dichroic mirror includes a first multilayer dielectric, a transparent bonding layer, a second multilayer dielectric and a second transparent substrate stacked on the first transparent substrate in that order. The second transparent substrate includes a parabolic incident surface for receiving sunlight. The dichroic mirror is configured for separating the sunlight into two light beams having different wavelength regions. The second multilayer dielectric is configured for reflecting one of the two light beams and allowing another light beam to pass through. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120145221 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC UNIT AND APPARATUS - There is provided a concentrator photovoltaic unit and apparatus in which light collecting efficiency is hardly reduced and sealing ability is hardly deteriorated while using a resin lens and a metal case. After attaching a homogenizer and a photovoltaic element a holding member, a Fresnel lens is attached to a case to close an opening at an upper end portion of the case, and the holding member is attached to the case to close an opening at a lower end portion of the case, so that one concentrator photovoltaic unit in which the photovoltaic element is accommodated is manufactured. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120145222 | Enhanced flat plate concentration PV panel - The invention teaches a family of flat concentrator PV panels wherein an array of enhanced light beam splitters coupling with a plurality of optical grooves efficiently collects light and transmits collected light substantially to the active surface(s) of an array of size-reduced PV cells with low aspect ratio. | 06-14-2012 |
| 20120152307 | Concentrating Solar Power With Glasshouses - A protective transparent enclosure (such as a glasshouse or a greenhouse) encloses a concentrated solar power system (e.g. a thermal and/or a photovoltaic system). The concentrated solar power system includes one or more solar concentrators and one or more solar receivers. Thermal power is provided to an industrial process, electrical power is provided to an electrical distribution grid, or both. In some embodiments, the solar concentrators are dish-shaped mirrors that are mechanically coupled to a joint that enables rotation at a fixed distance about respective solar collectors that are fixed in position with respect to the protective transparent enclosure. In some embodiments, the solar collectors are suspended from structure of the protective transparent enclosure and the solar concentrators are suspended from the solar collectors. In some embodiments, the greenhouse is a Dutch Venlo style greenhouse. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152308 | STRUCTURALLY BREAKING UP A TWO-AXIS TRACKER ASSEMBLY IN A CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - Methods and apparatus are described for a two axis tracking mechanism for a concentrated photovoltaic system. A solar array of the two axis tracking mechanism is structurally broken up to have multiple independently movable sets of concentrated photovoltaic solar (CPV) cells. Further, the remainder of the two-axis tracker is manufactured in simple sections that assemble easily in the field while maintaining the alignment of the tracker assembly. The CPV cells are located in two or more paddle assemblies, and the paddle assemblies couple to a common roll axle. Each of the multiple paddle assemblies contains its own set of the CPV solar cells that is independently movable on its own tilt axle from other sets of CPV cells on that two axis tracking mechanism. Each paddle assembly has its own drive mechanism for that tilt axle. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152309 | ALIGNMENT OF PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS WITH RESPECT TO EACH OTHER DURING MANUFACTURING AND THEN MAINTAINING THIS ALIGNMENT IN THE FIELD - Methods and apparatus are described for a concentrated photovoltaic system. A method of creating a paddle structure with a set of solar receivers that are aligned within and mechanically secured in place in each module contained in a paddle structure. Each solar receiver is assembled and aligned, where the assembly of the solar receiver establishes the alignment of the secondary optic to the photovoltaic solar cell. The assembly of a module with its set of solar receivers establishes the alignment in three dimensions the solar receivers with each other. Individual parts making up the receiver are 1) shaped, 2) sized, 3) keyed, 4) pinned and 5) any combination of these to fit together in only one way so that all of the solar receivers containing the photovoltaic solar cell maintain their alignment when installed in a given CPV module. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152310 | STRUCTURALLY BREAKING UP A SOLAR ARRAY OF A TWO-AXIS TRACKER ASSEMBLY IN A CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - In an embodiment, a solar array has its surface area structurally broken up into multiple discreet components smaller in size than the entire solar array itself. Multiple paddle pair assemblies form and make up the surface area of the solar array. Two or more of the paddle structures form a paddle pair assembly per tilt axle of the two axis tracker mechanism. A set of solar receivers, each with its own secondary concentrator optic is aligned within and secured in place in each CPV module in a paddle structure. All of the photovoltaic cells on the two axis tracker mechanism are electrically connected to form the voltage output from the solar array. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152311 | COMPONENTS OF A TWO-AXIS TRACKING ASSEMBLY IN A CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - Methods and apparatus are described for a two axis tracking mechanism for a concentrated photovoltaic system. Two or more paddle structures containing multiple CPV modules are installed onto each tilt axle on the common roll axle as part of the two-axis tracking mechanism's solar array. The two or more paddle structures couple across the common roll axle on that tilt axle. The common roll axle and each paddle assembly are manufactured in simple modular sections that assemble easily in the field while maintaining the alignment of the tracker assembly. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152312 | ASSEMBLING AND ALIGNING A TWO-AXIS TRACKER ASSEMBLY IN A CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - Methods and apparatus are described for a two axis tracking mechanism for a concentrated photovoltaic system. Two or more components forming the support structure of the two-axis tracker mechanism, which are assembled in the field and are manufactured to allow one or more lasers to align the support structure of the two-axis tracker mechanism in three dimensions vertical (X) dimension, horizontal (Y) dimension, and diagonal (Z) dimension at a site where the concentrated photovoltaic system is to be installed. Adjustable leveling mechanisms are built into the two or more components forming the support structure. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152313 | VARIOUS TRACKING ALGORITHMS AND APPARATUS FOR A TWO AXIS TRACKER ASSEMBLY IN A CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - A hybrid solar tracking algorithm is implemented in a two-axis solar tracker mechanism for a concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) system in order to control the movement of the two-axis solar tracker mechanism. The hybrid solar tracking algorithm uses both 1) an Ephemeris calculation and 2) an offset value from a matrix to determine the angular coordinates for the CPV cells contained in the two-axis solar tracker mechanism to be moved to in order to achieve a highest power out of the CPV cells. The matrix populates with data from periodic calibration measurements of actual power being generated by the solar tracker and the tracking algorithm applies Kalman filtering to those measurements over time of the operation of the solar tracking mechanism to create the offset value being applied to the Ephemeris calculation to determine the angular coordinates for the CPV cells. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152314 | PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE - The present invention provides a photoelectric conversion device. Specifically, the photoelectric conversion device has a structure in which a substrate including a photoelectric conversion element provided at the bottom and a substrate including a photoelectric conversion element provided at the side are secured in a brace form by a light-dividing device. This structure divides incident light using the light-dividing device into a plurality of wavelength bands, and causes the divided light to fall onto the photoelectric conversion elements provided at the bottom and side, thereby making it possible to provide a photoelectric conversion device which is capable of generating a lame amount of electric power. In addition, the light-dividing device distributes pressures and impacts applied to the substrates at the bottom and side, thus making it possible to provide a photoelectric conversion device which has resistance to pressures and impacts. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152315 | Solar energy collector - A solar collector comprises a concentrator that focuses sunlight into concentrated light and a light receiver. The light receiver includes a concave photovoltaic cell structure connected to reflecting surfaces. The concave photovoltaic cell structure is made of a concave photovoltaic cell, or multiple flat photovoltaic cells forming a concave shape, or a photovoltaic cell and its mirror images forming a virtual concave shape. The reflecting surfaces are oriented to reflect light onto the photovoltaic cell. Each reflecting surface may be a mirrored wall of a mirror or the side-wall of a reflecting prism. A heat pipe may be attached to the light receiver and a transparent container may encase the concentrator and the light receiver. The container may be sealed from the environment, contain an insulating gas, or be held under a vacuum. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152316 | TRACKING DEVICE FOR A PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING SUCH A TRACKING DEVICE - A tracking device contains, for in each case one photovoltaic module, a supporting framework, which has a vertical tracking device and a horizontal tracking device which is forcibly mechanically coupled to the latter. The vertical tracking device contains a supporting structure, which is a supporting mast and is mounted in a rotatable manner about a vertical axis. In operation, vertical tracking is executed with the aid of an electromotive drive, the actuating movement of which is transmitted to the supporting structure. The horizontal tracking device contains in particular an elevation element, which defines a mechanical guide track having different height levels. In operation, the height levels defined by the guide track are transmitted to the photovoltaic module via a mechanical coupling device, in the event of a rotational movement of the supporting structure about the vertical axis, in order to create a pivoting movement about the horizontal axis. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152317 | HIGH CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A high concentration photovoltaic module, including a plurality of Fresnel concentrating lenses, serving as lenses for solar radiation concentration, which form a group or array arranged on a “V” shaped structure, which reduces the amount of air contained therein, thus minimizing effects of moisture on active elements of the system, attached by a sealed attachment mechanism, and wherein, at the base, there are a plurality of predetermined cavities each of which house a photovoltaic receiver including at least one photovoltaic cell on which a secondary optical element is placed, improving acceptance angle, thus multiplying electric energy generation capacity of the photovoltaic cells and durability thereof, and includes side parts screwed to the structure which minimize torsion stress caused by attachment to the tracker. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120152318 | WATER TANK HAVING A POWER-GENERATING FUNCTION - Disclosed is a water tank having a power-generating function. The disclosed water tank having a power-generating function comprises: a storage unit, the interior of which has a water storage space, and having an open top and a bottom comprising an outlet portion; and a solar cell module which is mounted on the top of the storage unit, such that an inlet portion is formed to feed water into the storage unit, and which receives solar light and generates electrical energy. Water such as rainwater can be fed into the water tank through the inlet portion formed at the periphery of the solar cell module and stored in the water tank, and water stored in the water tank can be used as needed. The solar cell module is mounted on the top of the water tank, and thus does not occupy space, which prevents the problem of occupying land and reduces general costs related thereto. As described above, the solar cell module, which might otherwise occupy a large amount of space, and a water tank are coupled together, to thereby reduce the costs associated with purchasing land. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120160299 | Solar Cell Array For Use In Aerospace Application, And A Method Of Assembly Thereof - A space based solar array has a substrate on which are placed a plurality of spaced apart solar cells. A transparent adhesive bonding layer is on the plurality of solar cells covering the solar cells and the substrate between said solar cells. In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive bonding layer is silicone. A transparent rigid buffer layer is on the transparent adhesive bonding layer. In a preferred embodiment, the transparent rigid buffer layer is made of polyimide and has properties suitable for the application of performance- or durability-enhancing thin-film coatings. A transparent thin-film stack including inorganic radiation protection layer is on the transparent rigid buffer layer. In a preferred embodiment, the transparent radiation protection layer is made of silica, alumina or thin glass. Performance enhancing layers can also be included into the thin film stack for anti-reflection and ESD control purposes. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120160300 | CONCENTRATED SPECTRALLY SEPARATED MULTICONVERTER PHOTOBOLTAIC SYSTEMS AND METHODS THEREOF - A solar conversion apparatus and method includes two or more conversion cells and a reflector assembly. Each of the two or more solar conversion cells is responsive to a different one of at least a first band of wavelengths from solar radiation and a second band of wavelengths from the solar radiation. The reflector assembly comprises at least two integrated reflective sections. One of the at least two reflective sections is positioned to reflect and direct the first band of wavelengths towards one of the two or more solar conversion cells and another one of the at least two reflective sections is positioned to reflect and direct the second band of wavelengths towards another one of the two or more solar conversion cells. At least one of the two integrated reflective structures further comprises a Fresnel microstructure. | 06-28-2012 |
| 20120167945 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES HAVING SHAPED CONCENTRATOR MEMBERS - Photovoltaic devices having shaped concentrator members. The present invention is directed to solar energies. More specifically, various embodiments of the present invention provide a shaped concentrator member that is used as a part of concentrated solar panel. The shape concentrator member includes semi-cylindrically shaped concentrator elements arranged and spaced in parallel to one another. At the edges of the shaped concentrator member, there are flat edge regions that include flat surfaces. There are other embodiments as well. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120167946 | HIGH IMPACT AND LOAD BEARING SOLAR GLASS FOR A CONCENTRATED LARGE AREA SOLAR MODULE AND METHOD - A solar module device. The device has a substrate having a surface region. The device has one or more photovoltaic regions overlying the surface region of the substrate. In a preferred embodiment, each of the photovoltaic strips is derived from dicing a solar cell in to each of the strips. Each of the strips is a functional solar cell. The device also has an impact resistant glass member having a plurality of elongated concentrating elements spatially arranged in parallel configuration and operably coupled respectively to the plurality of elongated concentrating elements. Preferably, the impact resistant glass has a strength of at least 3× greater than a soda lime glass, e.g., conventional soda lime glass for conventional solar cells, e.g., a low iron soda lime glass. In a preferred embodiment, the impact resistant glass member comprises a planar region and a concentrator region comprising the plurality of elongated concentrating element spatially arranged in parallel configuration. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120167947 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FORMING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES USING DARK-FIELD IV CHARACTERISTICS - A method for forming a solar energy collection device includes receiving a first photovoltaic string comprising a first plurality of photovoltaic strips coupled via a first plurality of conductors, wherein the first photovoltaic string is tested to have a first dark-field current/voltage characteristic, receiving a second photovoltaic string comprising a second plurality of photovoltaic strips coupled via a second plurality of conductors, wherein the second photovoltaic string is tested to have a second dark-field current/voltage characteristic, electrically coupling the first photovoltaic string and the second photovoltaic string, and wherein the first dark-field current/voltage characteristic is substantially similar to the second dark-field current/voltage characteristic. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120167948 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FORMING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - A method for forming a solar energy collection device includes determining physical concentration characteristics for a plurality of light concentrating geometric features of a sheet of transparent material, determining placements for a plurality of photovoltaic strips in response to the physical concentration characteristics for the plurality of light concentrating geometric features, wherein the placements for each of the plurality of photovoltaic strips is associated with a two-dimensional displacement and an offset angle, placing the plurality of photovoltaic strips onto a stage in response to two-dimensional displacements and offset angles associated with each of the plurality of photovoltaic strips, and electrically coupling the plurality of photovoltaic strips with a plurality of conductors to form a photovoltaic assembly. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120167949 | METHOD OF ENHANCING IRRADIANCE PROFILE FROM SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - Embodiments of the present invention include structures and methods for enhancing illumination uniformity from solar concentrators. Certain embodiments may use features on a reflective layer to globally correct for deviation in reflective behavior from a desired shape. Local features such as facets on a reflective layer are formed such that the resulting illumination profile represents a superposition of multiple facets. Features may be formed on a back film to correct the reflectance of the back film. In some embodiments, features may be formed on a front film to correct a profile from refraction. In some embodiments the corrections are for line concentrators. Global and local correction techniques may be used together, and may be used on front film or reflective film(s) together or separately. Global and/or local correction may also be used in combination with other approaches, such as secondary optic receiver compensation. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120167950 | THERMALLY MOUNTING ELECTRONICS TO A PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL - An electronics assembly for a photovoltaic panel includes a substrate of a thermally conductive material, wherein the substrate defines a thermal contact area for thermally contacting the electronics assembly to a photovoltaic panel; and at least one electronic component provided on the substrate and in thermal contact with the substrate, so that when the electronics assembly is in thermal contact with the photovoltaic panel. The thermal contact provides a heat conductive channel between the at least one electronic component and the photovoltaic panel, wherein the heat conductive channel enables the electronics assembly to use the photovoltaic panel as a heat sink for heat produced by the at least one electronic component. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120167951 | SOLAR CELL MODULE, SOLAR POWER GENERATING APPARATUS, AND WINDOW - In order to realize a transparent solar cell module with a high design freedom, a solar cell module ( | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120174961 | ARC FAULT MITIGATION FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS - Systems, methods, and devices are presented for mitigating arc fault events in a photovoltaic system. An aspect of this disclosure is directed to a photovoltaic system for generating electrical power. The photovoltaic system includes one or more solar panels, and one or more shuttering assemblies, each of which is configured to selectively limit the quantity of light received by one or more of the solar panels. One or more sensing devices detect characteristics of an arc fault event in the photovoltaic system, and output signals indicative thereof. A control module is operatively connected to the shuttering assemblies and the sensing devices. The control module is configured to direct the one or more shuttering assemblies to reduce the quantity of light received by at least one of the one or more solar panels in response to the output signals indicating there is an arc fault event in the photovoltaic system. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120174962 | Controlling Movement of a Solar Energy Member - A solar energy system includes a support member secured to a substantially fixed location; a solar energy member mounted to the support member and including a surface operable to track in response to movement of the Sun; an actuator assembly coupled to the solar energy member and configured to periodically apply a torque at a first frequency to move the solar energy member in response to movement of the Sun; and a damper assembly including a spool, where the damper assembly is configured to reactively release and retract a cable about the spool in response to changes in the steady state load, and maintain the cable at a substantially fixed length released from the spool in response to a torque at a second frequency greater than the first frequency that is intermittently received by the solar energy member. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120174963 | Clock Operated Step Function Solar Tracker - The present invention describes a solar panel system tracker that closely approximates the output levels of an actively tracked system but at significantly reduced levels of complexity and cost. The present invention utilizes a clock that generates a five degree step function which moves the solar panel system in five degree increments over the period of the solar day. This provides approximately thirty-five separate adjustments throughout the day, yielding an aggregate output performance of approximately 90 percent compared to a fully tracked system. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120174964 | Method and Device for Automatic Compensation of Solar Sunlight Tracing Panel Inclination - The present invention provides a method and a device for automatic inclination compensation of solar sunlight tracing panel. The device includes a plurality of solar panels adjacent to each other and capable of swinging towards sun. Two or more light sensors are separately installed on the light receiving end surface to be illuminated by sunlight and to generate electric potential signals. When comparing the electric potential signals and there is potential difference, the solar panels are driven to synchronically swing until the electric potential of the electric potential signal become the same. Thus the solar plane inclination is compensated and the whole light receiving end is illuminated by sun. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120174965 | SOLAR POWER GENERATOR - Disclosed is a solar power generator of novel construction. A solar power generator ( | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120180844 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE HAVING A FRONT SUPPORT STRUCTURE FOR REDIRECTING INCIDENT LIGHT ONTO A PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL - Embodiments of a method and apparatus are described which provide a photovoltaic module in which light is diverted away from inactive areas of the photovoltaic module to active areas which generate electrical charges. A front support structure of a module is configured to redirect incident light to the active areas. | 07-19-2012 |
| 20120180845 | SUPPORT FOR SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTORS - A solar energy collection system can include support devices configured to accommodate misalignment of components during assembly. For example, the system can include piles fixed to the earth and an adjustable bearing assembly at the upper end of the pile. The adjustable bearing assembly can include at least one of a vertical adjustment device, a lateral adjustment device and an angular adjustment device. The solar energy collection system can also include a plurality of solar energy collection device pre-wired together and mounted to a support member so as to form modular units. The system can also include enhanced supports for wire trays extending between rows of solar energy collection devices. | 07-19-2012 |
| 20120180846 | SOLAR TRACKER FOR THE ORIENTATION OF SOLAR PANELS - Solar tracker ( | 07-19-2012 |
| 20120180847 | METHOD FOR IMPROVING SOLAR ENERGY CONDENSATION EFFICIENCY IN SOLAR ENERGY CONDENSATION ELECTRIC POWER FACILITY - A method for improving the solar energy condensation efficiency in the solar energy condensation electric power facility is provided. A corresponding twice condensing prism ( | 07-19-2012 |
| 20120186626 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION SYSTEM - A solar energy collection system includes a reference member, a support member rotatably mounted relative to the reference member, and a drive system operatively coupled between the reference member and the support member. The drive system includes a linear actuator having a fixed portion operatively connected to the reference member and a strut portion that is selectivity extendable relative to the fixed portion. The strut portion includes an end section. A first connector member is operatively connected between the reference member and the end section of the strut portion, and a second connector member is operatively connected between the support member and the end section of the strut portion. Selective extension and retraction of the strut portion relative to the fixed portion selectively shifts the support member along a desired path. | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120186627 | ELECTRONIC POWER SOURCE - An electronic power source is disclosed, which can be used to replace batteries or other power sources. The power source self-generates electrical power, and can be used to replace batteries in electronic devices. The power source disclosed includes a light source and a photovoltaic device in optical communication with the light source. The photovoltaic device creates electrical power in response to receiving light from the light source. A portion of the electrical power generated by the photovoltaic device is used to power the light source. In some embodiments power input contacts are included for use in providing initial start-up power to the light source. In some embodiments the light source comprises a light-emitting device and a photoluminescent material optically coupled to the light-emitting device, where the photoluminescent material emits light in response to receiving light from the light-emitting device. | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120192917 | SOLAR TRACKER MECHANISM - A solar tracker system includes a solar collector, a track, a movable assembly supporting the mirror, the movable assembly including track-traveling mechanism configured to move along the track when actuated by a first actuator to adjust an azimuth of the mirror, and a second actuator to adjust an elevation of the mirror. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120192918 | SOLAR CELL MODULES COMPRISING CONDUCTIVE RIBBONS WITH DIFFUSE REFLECTIVE COVERS - A solar cell module is provided that has a plurality of electrically interconnected solar cells, wherein each solar cell comprises a photoelectric conversion body, one or more conductive ribbons, and one or more reflective strips. The electrically conductive ribbons are disposed over a portion of the front surface of the photoelectric conversion body. The reflective strips are disposed over the electrically conductive ribbons. The reflective strips have an average total reflectance of at least about 20% and a ratio of average diffuse reflectance to average total reflectance of at least about 0.2. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120192919 | FRESNEL-FLY'S EYE MICROLENS ARRAYS FOR CONCENTRATING SOLAR CELL - Optical elements, concentrating photovoltaic devices and methods of forming optical elements are provided. An optical element includes a transparent material including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The first surface has a Fresnel lens and the second surface has a plurality of microlenses corresponding to the Fresnel lens. One of the first surface and the second surface is configured to receive light. The optical element is configured so that light passing through the optical element is separated into a plurality of beamlets via the plurality of microlenses. The Fresnel lens has a height where, at the height of the Fresnel lens, a diffraction efficiency of at least two different wavelengths of the light passing through the optical element is maximized. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120199174 | Recycled air photovoltaic cooler - This invention takes the conditioned cool air from inside the structure and moves it across the solar panels to cool them into a higher state of electrical production. Air then returns to structures cooling system and then back into the structure. Also, invention will supply warm air into structure during winter months. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120199175 | Articulating a Solar Energy System - A solar energy system drive apparatus includes: a rotor including a first circumferential surface and having a first radial dimension from a center axis of the rotor; a stator that is axially aligned with the rotor about the center axis and includes a second circumferential surface and having a second radial dimension from the center of the rotor, wherein the second radial dimension is different than the first radial dimension; and a plurality of planetary members arranged about the first and second circumferential surfaces of the rotor and stator respectively, wherein each of the planetary members has a stepped circumferential surface comprising a third surface and a fourth surface such that the third circumferential surface is in contact with the first circumferential surface and has a third radial dimension from a central planetary axis of the planetary member. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120199176 | SOLAR CELL MODULE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A solar cell module includes a solar cell string including at least two solar cells for generating electricity from sun light; a first sealing member and a second sealing member for sealing a front surface and a rear surface of the solar cell string, respectively; a front glass positioned on the first sealing member for protecting the front surface of the solar cell module; and a back sheet positioned on the second sealing member for protecting the rear surface of the solar cell module. Here, the back sheet includes an outer surface being an even surface including at least one of a plurality of dented portions and a plurality of protruded portions. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120204934 | Bearing Based Solar Tracker - A solar tracker includes a base having an upper surface, a collector support structure having a lower surface adjacent to the upper surface of the base, a conduit in fluidical communication with a space between the upper surface of the base and the lower surface of the collector support structure, a pump for pumping fluid into or out of the conduit, wherein injecting fluid into the conduit forms a fluid layer between the collector support structure and the base, and a solar collector supported by the collector support structure. | 08-16-2012 |
| 20120204935 | HIGHLY EFFICIENT SOLAR ARRAYS - 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. | 08-16-2012 |
| 20120204936 | COLOR BUILDING-INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC (BIPV) PANEL - In one aspect of the present invention, a photovoltaic panel includes a substrate, a reflective layer formed on the substrate, a first conductive layer formed on the reflective layer, an active layer formed on the first conductive layer, and a second conductive layer formed on the active layer. The reflective layer has an index of refraction and a thickness such that the reflectance spectrum of the photovoltaic device for light incident on the substrate has a maximum in a selected wavelength range in the visible spectrum. | 08-16-2012 |
| 20120204937 | LEAKY SOLAR ARRAY WITH SPATIALLY SEPARATED COLLECTORS - A leaky travelling wave array of optical elements provide a solar wavelength rectenna. | 08-16-2012 |
| 20120204938 | INTERCONNECT TECHNOLOGIES FOR BACK CONTACT SOLAR CELLS AND MODULES - Methods and systems for interconnecting back contact solar cells. The solar cells preferably have reduced area busbars, or are entirely busbarless, and current is extracted from a variety of points on the interior of the cell surface. The interconnects preferably relieve stresses due to solder reflow and other thermal effects. The interconnects may be stamped and include external or internal structures which are bonded to the solder pads on the solar cell. These structures are designed to minimize thermal stresses between the interconnect and the solar cell. The interconnect may alternatively comprise porous metals such as wire mesh, wire cloth, or expanded metal, or corrugated or fingered strips. The interconnects are preferably electrically isolated from the solar cell by an insulator which is deposited on the cell, placed on the cell as a discrete layer, or laminated directly to desired areas of the interconnect. | 08-16-2012 |
| 20120211051 | Heat sink systems for large-size photovoltaic receiver - An invention proposes a heat sink system for large-size photovoltaic receivers of tower-type solar power stations with application of an array of heliostats intended to concentrate solar radiation on the photovoltaic receiver. | 08-23-2012 |
| 20120211052 | PHOTOVOLTAIC STRIP SOLAR MODULES AND METHODS - A light energy collection device includes a glass layer having light concentrators for receiving light and for concentrating concentrated light, the light concentrators are elongated and substantially parallel manner to a first edge of the glass layer, wherein pitches of the light concentrators vary along the length generally within the range of approximately 5.5-5.8 mm, strings of multiple PV strips extending in a parallel manner to a second edge (perpendicular to the first edge) of the glass layer, wherein a string of PV strips includes: electrodes extending substantially parallel to the second edge, PV strips electrically coupled to the electrodes and extending substantially parallel to the first edge, wherein pitches of the PV strips vary along their length according to varying pitches of the light concentrators, wherein the PV strips receive concentrated light and output electrical energy in response to the concentrated light. | 08-23-2012 |
| 20120211053 | PHOTOVOLTAICS WITH INTERFEROMETRIC RIBBON MASKS - An interferometric mask covering a reflective conductive ribbon that electrically interconnects a plurality of photovoltaic cells is disclosed. Such an interferometric mask may reduce reflections of incident light from the conductors. In various embodiments, the mask reduces reflections, so that a front and back electrode pattern appears black or similar in color to surrounding features of the device. In other embodiments, the mask may modulate reflections of light such that the electrode pattern matches a color in the visible spectrum. | 08-23-2012 |
| 20120211054 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - Disclosed is a solar cell module capable of suppressing light leakage from a front plate and improving an optical confinement property. A solar cell module | 08-23-2012 |
| 20120216851 | Solar Power Generation Apparatus Capable of Tracking Sunlight - The present invention relates to a solar power generation apparatus, which comprises: torque tubes which are arranged to form a plurality of columns; a plurality of solar panels which are installed along each torque tube; posts which rotatably support each torque tube; lever arms which are coupled with each torque tube; a linkage which is disposed on the lower side of the torque tubes and is connected to each lever arm; an actuator which reciprocates the linkage in the longitudinal direction of the linkage, thereby rotating the torque tubes around an axis based on the longitudinal direction of the torque tubes; and a bed frame which is installed between some of the plurality of posts, wherein the actuator is supported thereon. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120216852 | SOLAR TRACKER DRIVE - A solar energy collection system can include a drive configured to adjust a tilt position of a solar collector assembly so as to tract the sun. The drive can include hardware for providing feedback control of the orientation of the solar collector assembly. A method for calibrating the drive can include moving the drive to a reference position and saving an output value from a sensor configured to detect the orientation of the drive. The reference value output from the sensor can then be used in determining the target output value from the sensor required to achieve a desired orientation. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120222720 | SOLAR PANEL ASSEMBLIES INCLUDING PIVOTALLY MOUNTED SOLAR CELLS AND RELATED METHODS - A solar panel assembly may comprise a support member, a plurality of elongate solar cells, at least one motive member, and at least one actuator. Each elongate solar cell of the plurality may be pivotally coupled to the support member at a first location on each elongate solar cell, and each motive member may be pivotally coupled to each elongate solar cell of the plurality of elongate solar cells at a second location on each elongate solar cell, the second location offset a distance from the first location. Additionally, each actuator may be operably coupled to the at least one motive member. A method of operating a solar panel assembly may comprise rotating each of a plurality of elongate solar cells within the solar panel assembly relative to each other of the plurality of elongate solar cells within the solar panel assembly. | 09-06-2012 |
| 20120222721 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE PACKAGE AND FABRICATION METHOD - A photovoltaic module package and fabrication method. The module includes photovoltaic cells, a dielectric material, and metallized material. Each photovoltaic cells includes a substrate material having a sun side and a backside, first doped regions interdigitated with second doped regions, both doped regions being located on the backside, and one being positively doped and the being negatively doped, and electrical contacts on each of the first and second doped regions. The dielectric material is adhered to the backside of the substrate material. Vias are formed through the dielectric material, extending to at least a portion of the electrical contacts. The metallized material extends from the electrical contacts through the vias and are patterned on a backside of the dielectric material. The metallized material is formed of a material that is both electrically and thermally conductive. | 09-06-2012 |
| 20120222722 | WINDOW - A window is provided, comprising at least one exterior layers, one or more photovoltaic (PV) cells configured to convert a first portion of solar radiation impinging on the window to electrical energy, and at least one thermal conduit configured to draw heat from the PV cells. The thermal conduits are in conductive thermal communication with at least one of the PV cells with at least one of the exterior layer. | 09-06-2012 |
| 20120227788 | Low cost sun tracking pole mount for solar panels - This invention presents a robust and low cost design for a sun tracking, solar panel mounting system that can be mounted on a wide range of light poles and power poles. This design incorporates a structural base that is attached to the pole with separate “U” bolts and custom cradles that precisely accommodate the mounting pole dimensions. The structural base incorporates an axle and separate pivoting frame to hold the solar panel and allow it to rotate about the axle in a celestial tracking configuration known as an equatorial mount. A simple automotive style electric motor in the support arm interfaces with a curved gear rack of the pivoting frame to power the motion of the solar panel and frame. A control system coordinates the movement of the frame to achieve the sun tracking. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120227789 | Solar Collector Comprising Receiver Positioned External to Inflation Space of Reflective Solar Concentrator - Embodiments of the present invention utilize inflation air to impart an appropriate shape to a reflective concentrator of a solar collector device. An optical receiver or a secondary optic in communication with an optical receiver may be positioned outside the concentrator's internal inflation space in a plane containing a substantially circular pattern of concentrated reflected illumination. In certain embodiments, the inflation space may be defined between the reflective film having a concave shape, and an optically transparent thin film adopting a convex shape in response to the inflation pressure. In some embodiments the inflation space may be defined between the concave reflective film, and an optically transparent disk having a thickness resisting internal inflation pressure to adopt a planar or only slightly convex profile. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120234370 | LIGHT ENERGY CONCENTRATOR - Apparatus and methods are provided for use with solar energy. An upper surface and a lower surface disposed there beneath have respective parabolic curvatures. The upper surface includes a coating and concentrates a first spectral portion of incident light upon a first target. The lower surface includes a reflective coating and concentrates a second spectral portion of the incident light upon a second target distinct from the first target. The first and second targets can be photovoltaic cells that are optimized for the respective photonic energies concentrated thereon. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120234371 | INCIDENT ANGLE DEPENDENT SMART SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - A transparent solar concentrator is provided for converting solar energy into electrical energy. The solar concentrator includes a first light transmissive substrate, a plurality of solar cells for receiving solar energy and converting the solar energy into electrical energy, the plurality of solar cells positioned relative to the first substrate, and a plurality of light redirecting elements arranged in the first light transmissive substrate. Each of the plurality of light redirecting elements is configured to direct light incident on a first side of the first light transmissive substrate to a respective one of the plurality of solar cells on an opposite side of the first light transmissive substrate. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120234372 | ORGANIC THIN-FILM SOLAR CELL MODULE AND SUB-MODULE - An organic thin-film solar cell module according to one embodiment includes solar cell panels and reflective surfaces. Each panel includes a substrate, a 1st electrode, a 2nd electrode and a photoelectric conversion layer. When supposing a 1st plane including the reflective surface, a 1st intersection line as a line of intersection of the 1st plane and the 2nd main surface of the substrate, and a 2nd plane including the 1st intersection line and forming an angle of 45° with the 2nd main surface of the substrate and an angle smaller than 45° with the 1st plane, an edge of the photoelectric conversion layer is in contact with the 2nd plane or the 2nd plane intersects the photoelectric conversion layer. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120234373 | Reflection Solar - A photovoltaic device includes a reflection region configured to direct light multiple times at a photoelectric material. Charge separation occurs in the photoelectric material when light is reflected at a thin reflector and part of the light's electric field penetrates the reflector into the photoelectric material. The charge separation is typically used to provide an electric current to a load. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120240974 | DRIVING DEVICE FOR AUTOMATIC TRACKING OPERATION OF SOLAR PANEL FOR SOLAR POWER GENERATOR - Disclosed is a driving device for an automatic tracking operation of a solar panel for a solar power generator. The device includes a housing, a worm gear, and upper and lower ring bearings. The worm gear is coupled to a worm mounted to a worm shaft, and a rotary gear is connected to an end of the worm shaft to engage with a drive gear. A thrust bearing is mounted on an upper portion of the upper ring bearing, and an anchor plate and an upper casing are installed above the thrust bearing. A support plate and a lower casing are coupled to a lower portion of the lower ring bearing. First and second stoppers are securely provided on a bearing body of the lower ring bearing to touch first and second limit switches. The solar panel is supported on the housing via a panel support bracket. | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120240975 | PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE, PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE ARRAY, FABRICATION METHOD FOR PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION DEVICE AND ELECTRONIC APPARATUS - A photoelectric conversion device includes: a porous electrode and a counter electrode provided on a substrate; an electrolyte layer provided between the porous electrode and the counter electrode; a collecting wiring line provided on a face of the substrate on which the porous electrode is provided; and a light guiding structure provided on the light incidence side of the substrate. | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120240976 | LIGHT ASSEMBLY - The present invention discloses a light assembly, which includes a transparent main body and a lens. The transparent main body includes an interior chamber gradually expanding from bottom to top, an inner wall encircling the interior chamber, and an outer wall encircling the inner wall. The outer wall is a total internal reflection surface. The inner wall includes a plurality of first facets facing a first direction and a plurality of second facets facing a second direction which is different from the first direction. The first facets and the second facets are provided to encircle the interior chamber respectively. Either side of each of the first facets is connected to one of the second facets, and each of the two adjacent first facet and second facet form an angle therebetween. The lens is fitted into the main body and faces the interior chamber of the main body. | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120240977 | UTILIZING ENERGETIC RADIATION IN AN ENCLOSED SPACE - Systems of utilizing energetic radiation in an enclosed space is disclosed. For example, an embodiment of a system of utilizing energetic radiation in an enclosed space includes: one or more photovoltaic cells, positioned at one or more predetermined positions in the enclosed space, adapted to convert radiation in the enclosed space into electric power; and an electric circuit to utilize the electric power to perform a function associated with the enclosed space. Other embodiments are described and claimed. | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120240978 | HIGH-CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR MODULE - A high-concentration photovoltaic solar module is formed by a casing ( | 09-27-2012 |
| 20120247531 | FLUORINATED ANTIREFLECTIVE COATING - Anti-reflective coatings and coating solutions, optically transparent elements and improved processes for preparing AR coatings and coating solutions are described. The anti-reflective coatings are formed from a fluoropolymer derived from at least one fluoropropene compound. The fluoropolymer may applied as a coating solution that is curable at low temperatures. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120247532 | SOLAR CELL PANEL - A solar cell panel is provided. The solar cell panel includes a solar cell module and a transparent substrate. The solar cell module includes a number of solar cells having a number of gaps. Each gap is located between any adjacent two of the solar cells. A transparent substrate is disposed above the solar cell module. The transparent substrate has a patterned structure which is right above the gaps. The progressing direction of a light ray is changed after the light ray passes through the patterned structure | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120247533 | REFLECTIVE DEVICE FOR A PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE WITH BIFACIAL CELLS - The invention relates to a reflective device for a photovoltaic module formed by a plurality of bifacial photovoltaic cells or rows of said cells spaced apart from one another, each cell having an active front face and an active rear face that can capture photons from incident light rays falling on the front and rear faces. The device comprises at least one reflective module to be placed under the cells substantially in line with the gap(s) separating two adjacent cells or two rows of adjacent cells. The reflective module comprises: a first portion, of which the surfaces that are oriented towards the gap have a first curvature such as to send all or part of the incident photons towards the rear face of the cells; and a second portion mounted on the first portion, of which the surfaces oriented towards the gap have a second curvature such as to send all or part of the incident photons towards the rear face of the cells, the second curvature being different from the first curvature. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120247534 | SOLAR POWER GENERATION APPARATUS - A solar power generation apparatus in which a solar cell unit is disposed at focal position in an optical system, which includes a single optical system and formulated so as to collect and spectrally separate incident light that falls in parallel to an optical axis, and focus each of the spectrally separated wavelength band lights at a different focal position on the optical axis. The solar cell unit includes a plurality of solar cells, each including, a junction unit disposed on a circumference of a substrate portion disposed along the optical axis, a surface of the junction portion forming a light receiving surface with a different sensitive wavelength band. The plurality of solar cells are arrayed along the optical axis, and each of the solar cells is disposed at one of the focal positions at which the wavelength band light corresponding to each the different sensitive wavelength band is focused. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120247535 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THE GENERATION OF ELECTRICAL POWER FROM SUNLIGHT - A system for the generation of electrical power from sunlight includes a solar cell assembly with at least two sets of solar cells, each of these sets being adapted to a set-specific light frequency spectrum so as to convert light having said set-specific frequency spectrum into electrical energy with an optimized energy conversion efficiency. The system is arranged to respond to changes in the frequency spectrum of the sunlight, for example, in accordance with the time of the day, by causing the sunlight to selectively impinge on one or another of the different sets of solar cells. Thus, an enhanced energy conversion efficiency of the system is obtained. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120255594 | Solar Power Generator Module - A solar power generator module includes a first type of photovoltaic cell and a second type of photovoltaic cell. The second type of photovoltaic cell is different from the first type of photovoltaic cell. The module further includes an optical device adapted to concentrate light onto the first type of photovoltaic cell and to transmit diffused light to the second type of photovoltaic cell. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120255595 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SOLAR POWER GENERATION - A photovoltaic device comprising an array of elongate reflector elements mounted substantially parallel to one another and transversely spaced in series, at least one of the reflector elements having an elongate concave reflective surface to reflect incident solar radiation towards a forward adjacent reflector element in the array. The at least one reflector element includes a photovoltaic receptor mounted on the reflector element by a mounting arrangement to receive reflected solar radiation from a rearward adjacent reflector element. The reflector element also includes a heat sink in heat transfer relationship with the photovoltaic receptor, thermally isolating the photovoltaic receptor, at least partially, from the reflector element. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120260968 | SOLAR TRACKER FOR ROTARY HIGH-CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR MODULES FOR ROOFS AND SOLAR FARMS - It comprises a frame with an upper structure ( | 10-18-2012 |
| 20120260969 | Solar Energy Harvesting and Storage System - A solar energy harvesting and storage system is disclosed having a dual-sided lithographically integrated light-to-electrical energy converter. The integrated light-to-electrical energy converter has a dual-sided photovoltaic cell, a compound optical structure and a plurality of integrated DC to AC converters. Also disclosed is a dual-axis solar tracking system upon which the dual-sided lithographically integrated light-to-electrical energy converter is mounted. The dual-axis solar tracking system has two stages of tracking mounts, each tracking mount has a plurality of leaf-springs in a vertical arrangement. The leaf springs have differential coefficients of expansion and contraction so that each tracking mount tracks a solar light source in an orthogonal direction from the other tracking mount. | 10-18-2012 |
| 20120266935 | HOMOGENIZING LIGHT-PIPE FOR SOLAR CONCENTRATORS - A light pipe that can be employed for a Concentrator Photo-Voltaic (CPV) system is provided. The light pipe homogenizes light by diffusion and/or refraction, and can be embodied in a structure that has a low aspect ratio. The diffusion and/or refraction can be effected by concave or convex surfaces of a transparent medium that forms a body of the light pipe, by light diffracting particles, and/or by a diffracting surface. Optionally, multiple transparent media can be employed with a refracting and/or diffracting interface therebetween. The reduced aspect ratio of the light pipe can improve reliability of mechanical alignment in the CPV system as well as reducing the cost of manufacturing and/or aligning the light pipe within the CPV system. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120266936 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES WITH ELECTRICALLY COUPLED SUPPORTS - Apparatus and methods related to photovoltaic energy are provided. A device includes electrically conductive supports in electrical contact with one or more photovoltaic cells. The photovoltaic cells are secured with respect to the supports by a clamping force soldering or other means. Optics concentrate and guide photonic energy onto the photovoltaic cells. Generated electrical energy is coupled to a load using the conductive supports. Heat is rejected from the photovoltaic cells using at least one of the supports and a fluid flow, thermal conduction, and so on. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120266937 | DIFFRACTIVE OPTIC - A method for designing a diffractive optic includes identifying an initial performance metric for the diffractive optic, the diffractive optic including a substrate. A test cell is selected from an array of cells on the substrate. A height of the test cell is changed by a predetermined height unit. Images are computed at a plurality of discrete wavelengths or using a continuous spectrum using diffraction-based propagation through at least a portion of the array of cells. A wavelength metric is determined for each of the images. The wavelength metrics for each of the images is consolidated into a perturbed performance metric. The perturbed performance metric is compared to the initial performance metric and the method identifies whether the perturbed performance metric is an improvement over the initial performance metric. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120266938 | SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC (CPV) SYSTEMS - A system and method for tracking a position of the Sun includes a solar tracker controller that generates directional control signals responsive to sensing signals. A solar tracking algorithm controls operation of the solar tracker controller responsive to the sensing signals. The solar tracking algorithm includes a rough tracking mode of operation for causing a pointing axis of at least one solar receiver to point generally in a direction of the Sun as indicated by the sensing signals. A searching mode of operation positions the at least one solar receiver such that sunlight falls on at least one solar cell of the receiver. A fine tracking mode of operation positions a pointing axis of the at least one solar receiver responsive to the feedback signal from the at least one solar receiver. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120266939 | SPECTRAL MODIFICATION - Spectral modification devices and methods are described. For example, an apparatus for spectral modification of incident radiation includes a substrate and Raman shifting material embedded in or on the substrate, the Raman shifting material selected based on a desired optical or electrical performance of a light absorbing structure. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120266940 | SOLAR-ENERGY COLLECTOR/CONCENTRATOR WITH CASSEGRAIN-TYPE OPTICS - The collector/concentrator includes a primary concave reflector ( | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120266941 | SOLAR POWER GENERATION APPARATUS - A solar power generation apparatus includes a solar cell panel body formed in a tube shape, and a reflection plate installed such that reflected light is incident to the solar cell panel body, wherein the solar cell panel body can be rotated around a shaft center of the tube shape. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120273023 | COLLAPSIBLE REFLECTOR FOR SOLAR PANEL - A reflector apparatus that includes reflector slats that reflect light from the sun onto solar panels, solar heaters, solar generators or the like is described. The reflector slats may be supported on upright poles and may be tiltable to reflect or to focus light onto the solar panels based on a sun tracker or a heat sensor output. In a default or collapsed position, based on readings from a wind sensor, the reflector slats are moved down on the poles to avoid risk of being damaged by heavy winds or other weather conditions | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120273024 | SOLAR CELL MODULE AND METHOD FOR FORMING THE SAME - A solar cell module includes lower and upper substrates that are spaced apart from each other, a plurality of spaced apart solar cells, a plurality of gratings, and a light-transmissive encapsulant disposed between the lower and upper substrates to encapsulate the solar cells and the gratings. Each of the gratings has a grating center, and four reflecting regions formed around the grating center. Each of the reflecting regions has a light entrance face that has a plurality of valleys and peaks. The valleys and peaks alternate with each other along a direction from the grating center to a corresponding one of the corners of a corresponding one of the four adjacent solar cells. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120273025 | SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - The light concentrator having a primary optical element which has an optical axis and a core comprising a rigid body which is co-linear with the optical axis and configured to support the primary optical element. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120279550 | Device for Continuously Reorienting a Solar Panel - A system and method are provided for continuously reorienting a solar panel array while maintaining a substantially stationary footprint for the solar panel. A cylindrically shaped knuckle is provided that is formed with a bottom surface and a top surface that is slanted relative to the bottom surface at a slant angle φ. One end of an upper pole is positioned against the top surface of the knuckle, and one end of a lower pole is positioned against the bottom surface of the knuckle. An upper and lower motor respectively connect the knuckle to the upper pole and the lower pole. These motors are used to continuously rotate the knuckle at an angular velocity ω relative to the upper and lower poles. When the knuckle rotates, the upper and lower poles remain stationary to allow the solar panel to continuously reorient while maintaining a substantially stationary footprint. | 11-08-2012 |
| 20120279551 | METHOD OF IMPROVING THE EFFICIENCY OF LOOSELY PACKED SOLAR CELLS IN DENSE ARRAY APPLICATIONS - An increased efficiency Concentrator Photovoltaic System having a plurality of solar cells laterally spaced from each other on a substrate panel. The solar cells are mounted on metal traces that support the cells and provide a path for the electrical output of the individual cells. Ribbons or wires, which provide a connection between the front contact of the solar cells to the appropriate metal traces form a circuit connecting the cells in desired configurations, Intercellular areas are provided between the lateral edges of the respective solar cells. A plurality of tubular enclosures are mounted directly above the solar cells. The top edge of the tubular enclosures have a circumference greater than the circumference of the bottom edges of the tubular enclosures. The inner surfaces of the tubular enclosure walls are reflective and direct solar rays to the respective solar cells thereby increasing the efficiency of the Photovoltaic system. | 11-08-2012 |
| 20120279552 | Bio-Solar Cells - A bio-solar cell including: one or more photosynthetic complexes, each photosynthetic complex including one or more chlorophyll compounds and one or more components of Photosystem II; one or more carbon nanotubes upon which the one or more photosynthetic complexes are bound at a first region of the one or more carbon nanotubes; and a conductive substrate attached to a second region of the one or more carbon nanotubes. | 11-08-2012 |
| 20120279553 | SOLAR CELL, SOLAR CELL PANEL, AND DEVICE COMPRISING SOLAR CELL - A solar cell ( | 11-08-2012 |
| 20120285505 | TRANSDUCER AND METHOD USING PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS - Photovoltaic cells may be distributed upon an inner surface of a perimeter of a tubular structure. The tubular structure may be installed in the roof of a habitable or uninhabitable structure to provide low-profile solar energy. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120285506 | Solar Tracker - A solar tracker includes a main frame, pivotal first and second frames to both sides of the main frame respectively, solar panels on the frames, a vertical axle under the main frame, two hydraulic cylinders each having one end pivotably secured to the vertical axle and the other end secured to the bottom of the first or second frame, a support comprising two spaced inclined members pivotably secured to the bottom of the main frame, an extension board on an intermediate portion of the vertical axle, the bottom of the support being pivotably connected to the vertical axle, a telescopic actuating member secured to the extension board and engaged with the bottom of the main frame proximate to an edge of the main frame, a rotational seat rotatably secured to the vertical axle, and a vertical moving device comprising a platform for supporting the rotational seat. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120285507 | HELIOSTAT SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USING SAME - A heliostat includes a heliostat frame and a plurality of reflective surfaces, each reflective surface is movably mounted within the heliostat frame. The heliostat also includes a plurality of actuators, wherein each individual actuator of the plurality of actuators is associated with a single reflective surface of the plurality reflective surfaces and capable of moving the single reflective surface. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120285508 | FOUR TERMINAL MULTI-JUNCTION THIN FILM PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE AND METHOD - A multi junction photovoltaic cell device includes a lower cell and an upper cell operably coupled to the lower cell. The lower cell includes a lower glass substrate material, a lower electrode, and a first terminal coupled to the lower electrode through the lower glass substrate material. The lower cell includes a lower absorber characterized by a bandgap smaller than 1 eV overlying the lower electrode and a lower window overlying the lower absorber and a lower transparent-conductive oxide coupled to a second terminal overlying the lower window. The upper cell includes a p+-type transparent conductor coupled to a third terminal. The upper cell further has an upper p-type absorber with a bandgap in a range of 1.6 to 1.9 eV overlying the p+-type transparent conductor and has an upper n-type window overlying the upper p-type absorber, an upper transparent-conductive oxide coupled to a fourth terminal overlying the upper n-type window. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120285509 | SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM AND METHODS OF PASSIVE TRACKING - A solar tracking system and methods based on passive tracking of solar illumination impinging on solar panels. The system includes a solar panel having cardinal points of the panel provided with piston assemblies. Actuating of pistons in the piston assemblies orients the solar panel to maximize solar illumination impinging on the solar panel. A conduit facilitates flow of a fluid between a solar illumination sensor and piston assembly based on changes in temperature of a canister and fluid contained within the canister. The heating of the fluid causes the fluid to flow toward and activate the piston assembly to rotate the solar panel about a longitudinal axis or lateral axis, which passively orients the solar panel in a position to maximize solar illumination impinging on a front face of the solar panel. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120285510 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module having sub-units of solar cells connected in parallel, the sub-units being connected in series. To enable individual adjustment to the impinging light intensity distribution such that substantially the same photocurrent is generated in each sub-unit, the solar cells have at least first and second solar cells, which each have radiation-sensitive surfaces that are different from each other, and at least one sub-unit of the solar cell module has a first and at least one second solar cell. | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120285511 | DEVICE, IN PARTICULAR A HELIOSTAT OR PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - The invention relates to a device, in particular a heliostat or photovoltaic device, having a stand ( | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120291848 | SUPPORTING STRUCTURES FOR BUILDING INTEGRABLE PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - Building integrable photovoltaic (BIP) modules include photovoltaic inserts for producing electrical power and supporting structures for mechanically attaching and supporting the insert with respect to a building structure, such as roof tops. The supporting structures may include ventilation ribs that form ventilation channels under the photovoltaic insert and, in certain embodiments, under other components of the module. These ribs may be used to provide mechanical support to the entire module. In specific embodiments, ventilation channels of one module are configured to coincide with ventilation channels of one or more other like modules and to form a continuous channel along the roof edge. The supporting structures may be used to form moisture barriers in between two modules, such as side glitters. In certain embodiments, supporting structures are separate components and are attached to the insert to form a module during fabrication or installation of the module on a building structure. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120291849 | ENCLOSED PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - The present invention is an enclosed photovoltaic device that includes one or more photovoltaic cells arranged in tandem, stacked apart vertically or horizontally from one another, encased or enclosed within a transparent four sided square shaped or box configure with one or more lenses embedded in each side that absorb sunlight or artificial light and a heat sink with a fan attached to the base of the device. As light enters the device, the light is magnified by the lenses, photons are absorbed by the cells and electricity is generated where it is directed to a power storage device or battery. The heat sink is attached to the base of the photovoltaic device to cool the device, where heat flow is directed out or absorbed. Each of the photovoltaic cells comprises of either a pair of electrodes, with each substantially transparent to the light received by the photovoltaic device. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120291850 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR BATTERY, CONCENTRATING SOLAR BATTERY MODULE, CONCENTRATING SOLAR BATTERY SYSTEM, METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING CONCENTRATING SOLAR BATTERY, AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING CONCENTRATING SOLAR BATTERY MODULE - A concentrating solar battery in which concentrated sunlight is guided to a solar battery cell, the concentrating solar battery including: a substrate on which the solar battery cell is mounted; a light guide member disposed above the solar battery cell such that a lower surface thereof opposes the solar battery cell; and a support member that holds an upper portion of the light guide member in a hanging manner and is provided upright on the substrate, wherein the concentrating solar battery has a structure hermetically sealed by the substrate, the light guide member and the support member. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120291851 | LIQUID IMMERSING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - The present invention discloses a liquid immersing photovoltaic module, which comprises a baseboard, a transparent cover plate, side walls, solar cells or solar cell module and insulating liquid. The insulating liquid is inside a container formed by baseboard, cover plate and side walls. The baseboard is a transparent plate or a metal plate with fins on lower surface. The solar cells are located on the upper surface of the baseboard. The lower surface of the solar cell module is mounted on the top of a supporting board with fins, and the lower ends of the supporting board fins are installed on the top of the baseboard. This invention allows the solar cell to increase the utilization ratio of incident light, reduce the recombination of current carriers on the surface of solar cells, and increase the current output. Moreover, this invention effectively cools the front and back surfaces of solar cells and quickly removes the heat of the working solar cells, which insures the solar cells working at a fairly high efficiency, increases the durability of the solar cells and reduces the power generation cost. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120298177 | CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS WITH OFFSET PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES AND/OR ASSOCIATED METHODS - Certain example embodiments relate to improved concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) systems and/or methods of making the same. Certain example embodiments relate to positing a photovoltaic array at a distance that is offset from a calculated theoretical focus of a reflector. In certain example embodiments, the distance is determined by performing a ray trace against the reflector such a distribution of the rays may be determined. In certain example embodiments, the offset is determined by selecting a range where at least 95% of the rays are included in the range. In certain example embodiments, a CPV system includes a reflector that reflects solar energy to a PV array that is located at a distance that is offset from a theoretical focus distance of the reflector. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120298178 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM FOR EFFICIENT SOLAR RADIATION COLLECTION AND SOLAR PANEL INCORPORATING SAME - A concentrated photovoltaic system includes a photovoltaic cell; a primary light concentrating optic; and a secondary light mixing concentrator. The primary light concentrating optic is arranged to collect solar radiation and concentrate the collected solar radiation towards the secondary light mixing concentrator. The secondary light mixing concentrator is arranged to concentrate the concentrated solar radiation from the primary light concentrating optic towards the photovoltaic cell. The secondary light mixing concentrator includes a dielectric member having first and second primary surfaces, with the second primary surface being in optical contact with the photovoltaic cell and the first primary surface facing the primary light concentrating optic. The first primary surface has a non-planar surface structure configured to redirect light which is reflected at transitional surfaces between the secondary light mixing concentrator and the photovoltaic cell back towards the photovoltaic cell. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120298179 | Device for Aligning a Concentration Photovoltaic Module - A concentration photovoltaic module includes a radiator, solar cell units, a datum plate, an optical unit and an alignment unit. The radiator includes apertures defined therein. The solar cell units are located on the radiator. The datum plate is located on the radiator. From a lower face of the datum plate extend positioning columns corresponding to the apertures defined in the radiator. The datum plate is provided with marks corresponding to some of the solar cell units. The optical unit is provided with lines near edges thereof. The alignment unit includes a board and light sources. The board is formed with corners corresponding to the lines provided on the datum plate. The light sources are located on the board. The light sources cast light on the solar cell units through the marks. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120298180 | SOLAR CANOPY SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A solar canopy system includes support towers and an upper canopy suspended therefrom, the upper canopy forming a catenary shape. A method of generating electricity includes deploying mirrors upon a canopy that forms a catenary shape, to focus sunlight on a Dewar tube containing a heat transfer fluid, utilizing heat from the sunlight collected within the heat transfer fluid to generate steam, and generating the electricity with a turbine powered by the steam. A method of generating electricity includes deploying first and second photovoltaic cell grids upon a canopy that forms a catenary shape, the second grid being movable relative to the first grid. The method also includes positioning the second grid with respect to the first grid so as to maximize light collection and electricity generation during daylight hours, and repositioning the grids so as to maximize transparency of the canopy during nighttime hours. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120298181 | CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR PANEL - The present invention relates to photovoltaic power systems, photovoltaic concentrator modules, and related methods. In particular, the present invention features concentrator modules having interior points of attachment for an articulating mechanism and/or an articulating mechanism that has a unique arrangement of chassis members so as to isolate bending, etc. from being transferred among the chassis members. The present invention also features adjustable solar panel mounting features and/or mounting features with two or more degrees of freedom. The present invention also features a mechanical fastener for secondary optics in a concentrator module. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120298182 | FLEXIBLE SOLAR CELL - A flexible solar cell including a flexible substrate; a first electrode on the flexible substrate; a second electrode on the flexible substrate, the second electrode being spaced apart from the first electrode; a photoelectric conversion element, one side of the photoelectric conversion element being connected to the first electrode and another side of the photoelectric conversion element being connected to the second electrode; and a reflective layer between the flexible substrate and the photoelectric conversion element, the reflective layer including at least one recessed portion, and being configured to reflect incident light toward the photoelectric conversion element. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120298183 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE HAVING A PHOTOACTIVE LAYER OR SOLAR COLLECTOR HAVING AN SOLAR ABSORBER - The invention relates to a photovoltaic module on the basis of a metal strip substrate, which allows a monolithic interconnection via the layer structure, wherein the substrate surface is structured in such a manner that an increase in efficiency of up to 20 percent is achieved by increasing the surface and reducing the reflection or a targeted reflection. The invention further relates to a solar absorber module on the basis of a metal strip substrate, where the light-optical effect is utilized in the same manner and the efficiency is increased accordingly. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120305050 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES WITH LIGHT-DIRECTING SURFACE FEATURES - Apparatus and methods are provided for use with solar energy. An optical material defines light-directing surface features, each configured to direct incident photonic energy away from a respective dead-space. Photovoltaic cells or other entities receive photonic energy propagating through the optical material, including that portion being directed by the light-directing surface features. Various entities can be located within the dead-spaces defined between the photovoltaic cells. | 12-06-2012 |
| 20120305051 | FLOATING SOLAR POWER PLANT - A floating solar power plant includes a frame floating at the surface of a water body, where the frame includes at least one cell, which is secured by at least one flexible tie to at least one floating support, which is secured to a shore of the water body by at least one suspension, with the length of each suspension selected so that the floating supports remain at the surface of the water body under all conditions of seasonal variation of water level in the water body. | 12-06-2012 |
| 20120305052 | ROTATABLE SOLAR PANEL ASSEMBLIES - Rotatable solar panel assemblies herein are configured to couple to a boat trailer, or other vehicles and structures in order to charge a battery in a boat secured on top of the trailer or to otherwise provide power to vehicles or structures. The solar panel assemblies can be configured to have means for 360 rotation to allow efficient sunlight capture and to allow for a more aerodynamic profile when the trailer is being towed. The assemblies herein include a solar panel housing that can include downwardly slanting sides to protect the one or more solar panels mounted within the housing from road debris, or other hazards. | 12-06-2012 |
| 20120305053 | SOLAR CELL AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - Disclosed is a solar cell which allows more photogenerated carriers to be extracted while improving power generation efficiency. The solar cell has a light-receiving surface electrode layer ( | 12-06-2012 |
| 20120312349 | Stationary concentrated solar power module - A stationary concentrated photovoltaic solar power module that is free of a tracking device and comprises a single optical lens and a plurality of photovoltaic solar cells spatially arranged on the track of a light spot produced on the photovoltaic solar cells by projection of the sun through the single optical lens unit. The cells are supported by the inner surface of the housing in the positions on the track of the light spot. | 12-13-2012 |
| 20120312350 | Solar cell roof system having a plurality of solar modules - A solar cell roof system having a plurality of solar modules, of which at least some are to be installed in interconnected manner on top of each other in order to provide protection from rain; in addition, air conveyance arrangement for the supply of ambient air behind the rear side of the solar module are provided in or on at least one edge of the solar modules to be installed on top of one another, this edge being a lower edge in the normal position. | 12-13-2012 |
| 20120312351 | Efficient solar energy concentrator with improved thermal management - A solar concentrator comprises a reflective curved mirror assembly, a support riser placed to support and position photovoltaic cells attached to a printed circuit board that is in turn attached to a heat sink at the focal point of the mirrors of the reflective curved mirror assembly. A central support riser may grasp the assembly of photovoltaic cells attached to a printed circuit board while other support risers may allow the assembly of photovoltaic cells to move slightly to accommodate differences in the coefficient of thermal expansion between the mirror assembly and the printed circuit board and the heat sink. The solar concentrator may include a prism assembly placed to separate solar radiation angularly by wavelength to facilitate use of single junction photovoltaic cells for increased efficiency. The heat sink may form the major structural element of the solar concentrator. | 12-13-2012 |
| 20120318323 | GROUND MOUNT BALLAST SOLAR RACKING SYSTEM - The present invention is a ground mounted ballast solar racking system that includes a plurality of ballast trays that are placed on a ground surface and are stabilized with a plurality of reinforcing ribs to prevent the ground mounted ballast solar racking system from moving and shifting, a plurality of vertical support brackets attached to the ballast trays by a base plate and photovoltaic modules that converts solar light into electrical energy with utilization of the ballast trays. The system also includes a slotted horizontal support channel that includes a pair of parallel rails that are supported by the vertical support brackets, a plurality of clamps to secure the photovoltaic modules placed onto the horizontal support channel and a plurality of fasteners to secure the ballast trays, the vertical support brackets, the base plates and the horizontal support channel together forming the ground mount ballast solar racking system. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20120318324 | Laterally Arranged Multiple-Bandgap Solar Cells - A solar cell assembly can be prepared having one or more laterally-arranged multiple bandgap (LAMB) solar cells and a dispersive concentrator positioned to provide light to a surface of each of the LAMB cells. As described herein, each LAMB cell comprises a plurality of laterally-arranged solar cells each having a different bandgap. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20120318325 | AUTOMATIC SUNLIGHT TRACKING DEVICE - Disclosed is an automatic sunlight tracking device comprising a solar panel holder ( | 12-20-2012 |
| 20120318326 | THIN FILM SOLAR CELL MODULE AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF - A thin film solar cell module including a plurality of cells in which a transparent electrode, a photoelectric conversion layer, and a rear surface electrode are stacked in this order includes a first photoelectric conversion layer separation trench and a rear surface electrode separation trench in which the photoelectric conversion layer is removed between a cell connection apertural area and a transparent electrode separation trench and between the cell connection apertural area and a rear surface electrode separation trench, and white reflection materials having an insulation property are formed at the inside of the trenches. The structure improves light use efficiency of thin film solar cells, and achieves thin film solar cell modules easily manufacturable. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20120318327 | METHOD OF COOLING A SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - A method of cooling a solar concentrator includes absorbing heat from solar energy collectors into a chamber section. The chamber section is arranged below, in a heat exchange relationship, the solar energy collectors. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20120325287 | PHOTONIC ENERGY CONCENTRATOR WITH INTEGRAL SUPPORT RIBS - Apparatus and methods are provided for use with solar energy. A curved surface includes integral support ribs extending away from a backside thereof. A dichroic surface treatment is born on the curved surface to define a curved dichroic surface. A curved reflector is disposed apart from the backside of the curved dichroic surface. Photovoltaic cells can be disposed at respective photonic energy concentration regions defined by the curved dichroic surface and the curved reflector. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20120325288 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - The present invention relates to a photovoltaic module. A photovoltaic module according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a solar cell module, a micro-inverter to convert DC power generated by the solar cell module into AC power, a controller to control the micro-inverter's operation, and an interface unit connected to power grid supplying external electrical power and to provide the AC power to the power grid, the controller to control operation of the micro-inverter such that the AC power is matched to the external electrical power flowing into the power grid. The photovoltaic module according to the present invention can provide electrical power generated at solar cell modules through a simple connection to power grid which supplies electrical power to home, reducing consumption of electrical power flowing into home. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20120325289 | HIGH CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR MODULE - The present invention relates generally to a high concentrator photovoltaic (HCPV) solar module with a single paraboloidal reflective optic for each solar cell. The point-focus embodiments described in this present invention can achieve much higher concentration ratios in a smaller area. The truncated narrow parabaloidal reflector has a long focal length to aperture ratio, which is an important characteristic for HCPV modules. Because of the long focal lengths of these HCPV systems, the solar cell receives concentrated light under a narrow high angle of incident light. Single-cell units and arrays are disclosed. A passive cooling system for the printed circuit board that supports the photovoltaic cell is also disclosed. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20130000691 | APPARATUS FOR CONCENTRATING SOLAR ENERGY - A solar radiation concentrating apparatus including one or more solar energy cells for converting radiation to another form of energy; two planar mirror elements, oriented to reflect solar radiation and to concentrate the radiation onto the solar energy cell. The mirror elements are oriented substantially orthogonally to each other and to the solar cell. The two planar mirror elements and solar energy cell are arranged in a configuration of three mutually perpendicular joined surfaces. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130000692 | METHOD OF MANUFACTURING HELIOSTAT MIRROR WITH SUPPORTING TILE ELEMENTS - A mirror module may include a front plate, a rear plate and a support structure between the front plate and the rear plate. The support structure includes a carrier mesh and multiple tile elements secured to the carrier mesh. The carrier mesh is prefabricated to mount tile elements. During the fabrication of the mirror module, the carrier mesh with tile elements is secured onto the front or rear plate and then secured to the other remaining plate. The mirror module is shaped by assembling the plates and the carrier mesh on a shaping tool or placing the assembled mirror module on a shaping tool. The tile elements may be made of the same material as the front plate or the rear plate to reduce stress on the front plate or rear plate due to temperature fluctuation. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130000693 | Solar Positioning System and Method - An apparatus for positioning an object, for example, a solar energy capture device, can include a frame, the object, a joint, and at least two linear actuators. The joint connects the object to the frame and allows the object to rotate relative to the frame. The first and second linear actuators are coupled to the object. When the first and second actuators are actuated in combination, the object rotates about a pitch axis. When the first and second actuators are actuated differentially, the object rotates about a roll axis. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130000694 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE AND LAMINATE - A photovoltaic module is disclosed. The photovoltaic module has a first side directed toward the sun during normal operation and a second, lower side. The photovoltaic module comprises a perimeter frame and a photovoltaic laminate at least partially enclosed by and supported by the perimeter frame. The photovoltaic laminate comprises a transparent cover layer positioned toward the first side of the photovoltaic module, an upper encapsulant layer beneath and adhering to the cover layer, a plurality of photovoltaic solar cells beneath the upper encapsulant layer, the photovoltaic solar cells electrically interconnected, a lower encapsulant layer beneath the plurality of photovoltaic solar cells, the upper and lower encapsulant layers enclosing the plurality of photovoltaic solar cells, and a homogenous rear environmental protection layer, the rear environmental protection layer adhering to the lower encapsulant layer, the rear environmental protection layer exposed to the ambient environment on the second side of the photovoltaic module. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130000695 | LIGHT HARVESTING IN PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS - This disclosure provides methods and apparatus for increasing the efficiency of a photovoltaic module. In one aspect, an apparatus includes an array of photovoltaic cells. One or more reflective surfaces can be provided along the edges of the array, between the edges of the array and the frame. The reflective surfaces can extend in a direction from the back of the array toward the front of the array so as to reflect light exiting the first and second edges of the array back into the array through the first and second edges. The reflective surface can be convex and/or can be disposed at one or more angles with respect to the array. The angles can be selected based on a selected geographical latitude and a corresponding selected orientation of the array relative to the sun. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130000696 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS AND METHODS - This disclosure provides methods and apparatus for increasing the efficiency of a photovoltaic module. In one aspect, the position of a photovoltaic panel can be updated throughout the day based on whether the solar angle of incidence on the panel falls within a cone of at least 10° about a normal of the panel. For example, the panel can remain stationary when the solar angle of incidence falls within the cone, but when the solar angle of incidence falls outside the cone, the panel can be moved so that the solar angle of incidence falls within the cone. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130000697 | SOLAR CELL MODULE AND SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - A solar cell module ( | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130008484 | INCREMENTALLY POSITIONED SOLAR ARRAY - Apparatus and methods related to solar energy are provided. A system includes a solar array supported to be angularly repositionable. A shuttle and linkage arrangement is coupled to the solar array. Thermally activated actuators sequentially control the linear translation of the shuttle such that the solar array is incrementally angularly repositioned over the course of a daylight period. Concentrated solar energy is used to heat the actuators in their sequential order. Systems for generating electrical and/or thermal energy, embodied as panels or other form-factors, are contemplated. | 01-10-2013 |
| 20130008485 | SOLAR GENERATOR APPARATUS WITH SUN-TRACKING FUNCTION - A solar generator apparatus with a sun-tracking function includes a movable module, a first support structure, a connection structure, a second support structure, a carrying structure and a solar generator module. The first support structure has a first end connected to the movable module. The connection structure has a first end connected to the movable module. The second support structure has a first end connected to a second end of the connection structure. The carrying structure has a first end connected to a second end of the second support structure, and a second end connected to a second end of the first support structure. The solar generator module is disposed on the carrying structure. The movable module may be rotated about the second support structure, and a difference between lengths of the first and second support structures may be adjusted so that the solar generator module has the sun-tracking function. | 01-10-2013 |
| 20130008486 | PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION ELEMENT MODULE - Disclosed herein is a photoelectric conversion element module including a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements between two base materials. Each of the photoelectric conversion elements is anchored to one of the base materials via an anchoring layer. The anchoring layer covers at least part of a sealing portion of each of the photoelectric conversion elements. | 01-10-2013 |
| 20130014804 | SOLAR GENERATOR APPARATUS WITH SUSPENDING SUPPORTSAANM Luo; Chia ChingAACI Hsinchu CountyAACO TWAAGP Luo; Chia Ching Hsinchu County TWAANM Sung; Yao HuaAACI Tainan CityAACO TWAAGP Sung; Yao Hua Tainan City TW - A solar generator apparatus, which has suspending supports and is mounted on a fixed structure, includes a solar generator module, a middle column, three side columns and three elastic members. The solar generator module converts light into electricity. The middle column for rotatably supporting the solar generator module has a first end mounted on the fixed structure, and a second end pivotally connected to a middle portion of a bottom of the solar generator module. First ends of the three side columns are mounted on the fixed structure. The three elastic members for assisting in supporting the solar generator module respectively connect second ends of the three side columns to the solar generator module. | 01-17-2013 |
| 20130014805 | VENTING ASSEMBLY FOR CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM MODULEAANM Vaid; SunilAACI North BrunswickAAST NJAACO USAAGP Vaid; Sunil North Brunswick NJ USAANM Zawadzki; Peter AllenAACI ClintonAAST NJAACO USAAGP Zawadzki; Peter Allen Clinton NJ USAANM Hering; GaryAACI Belle MeadAAST NJAACO USAAGP Hering; Gary Belle Mead NJ USAANM Blumenfeld; PhilipAACI AlbuquerqueAAST NMAACO USAAGP Blumenfeld; Philip Albuquerque NM US - Solar cell modules for converting solar energy into electrical energy, such as used in a concentrating photovoltaic system. The modules have a first ventilating opening in the module housing; and a ventilating subassembly mounted on the module housing and disposed over the ventilating opening in the module housing. The ventilating subassembly has a housing having a first chamber adjacent to and in communication with the first ventilating opening in the module housing; a second chamber adjacent to the first chamber, the second chamber having a second ventilating opening to the external environment; and a filter membrane separating the first chamber from the second chamber to allow air to flow between the first chamber and the second chamber through the filter membrane. | 01-17-2013 |
| 20130019920 | COMBINATION SOLAR CELL SUN SENSOR FOR DIRECT ALIGNMENT OF TRACKERS AND CLOSED-LOOP TRACKING - Apparatus and methods are described including an individual solar power generating and sun sensing cell formed to have a plurality of electrically isolated portions, the output of each portion being monitored and analyzed to determine whether the solar cell is optimally positioned relative to the direction of solar rays to optimize power generation of the solar cell, and also of an array of solar cells which includes the solar power generating and sun sensing cell. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130019921 | STOW STRATEGY FOR A SOLAR PANEL ARRAY - A solar panel tracking system for simultaneously rotating large arrays of solar panels positioned in multiple rows utilizing a single drive system and having a stow strategy with a stow-and-lock system built into the array support piers. A stow-and-lock stopping structure is mechanically and structurally incorporated into the support piers such that the solar panels stop at approximately 45 degrees, and the stow-and-lock assembly ensures that moment forces of the array are transmitted directly to the immediate support members, obviating the need for the driveline, locking dampers, and rotational supports to resist the forces transmitted from an entire wing and row of panels. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130019922 | FIRE RESISTANT PV SHINGLE ASSEMBLY - A fire resistant PV shingle assembly includes a PV assembly, including PV body, a fire shield and a connection member connecting the fire shield below the PV body, and a support and inter-engagement assembly. The support and inter-engagement assembly is mounted to the PV assembly and comprises a vertical support element, supporting the PV assembly above a support surface, an upper interlock element, positioned towards the upper PV edge, and a lower interlock element, positioned towards the lower PV edge. The upper interlock element of one PV shingle assembly is inter-engageable with the lower interlock element of an adjacent PV shingle assembly. In some embodiments the PV shingle assembly may comprise a ventilation path below the PV body. The PV body may be slidably mounted to the connection member to facilitate removal of the PV body. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130019923 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module having high reliability by increasing heat release of a bypass diode is provided. A solar cell panel including a photoelectric conversion unit, a holding member disposed at a periphery of the solar cell panel to hold the solar cell panel, a heat release plate spaced from the solar cell panel and disposed on the holding member, and a bypass diode attached to the heat release plate so as to be spaced from the solar cell panel and electrically connected to the photoelectric conversion unit are included. An attachment surface of the bypass diode to the heat release plate is disposed to face the holding member. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130032194 | SOLAR CELL STRUCTURE INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF CONCENTRATOR ELEMENTS WITH A NOTCH DESIGN AND PREDETERMINED RADII AND METHOD - A solar cell concentrator structure includes a first concentrator element having a first aperture region and a first exit region including a first back surface region and a first corner region. The structure also includes a second concentrator element integrally formed with the first concentrator element. The second concentrator element includes a second aperture region and a second exit region-including a second back surface region and a second corner region. Additionally, the structure includes a first radius of curvature of 0.10 mm and less characterizing the first corner structure and the second corner structure, a first coupling region between the first exit region and a first surface region of a first photovoltaic device. The structure further includes a second radius of curvature of 0.10 mm and less characterizing a region between the first concentrator element and the second concentrator element. | 02-07-2013 |
| 20130032195 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE WITH SERIALLY CONNECTED SOLAR CELLS - The photovoltaic module includes a string of serially connected solar cells. When the string direction of the serially connected solar cells is an “x” direction, the interval between the two solar cells in the x direction ranges from 4 mm to 6 mm so as to enhance light trapping. | 02-07-2013 |
| 20130032196 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DISTRIBUTED TRACKING SOLAR COLLECTOR - A system is disclosed, consisting of scalable array of distributed and networked control systems such as small heliostats, and orthogonal trackers capable of precise sun-position measurements, directing incident solar radiation to one or more predetermined targets. A method for implementing a scalable heliostat array for use in solar-energy applications, telescopy, etc., is also disclosed. | 02-07-2013 |
| 20130037081 | SOLAR TRACKER - The solar tracker comprises a base ( | 02-14-2013 |
| 20130037082 | SOLAR TRACKER - The solar tracker comprises a base ( | 02-14-2013 |
| 20130037083 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module is discussed. The solar cell module includes: a front substrate; a rear substrate facing the front substrate; and a plurality of solar cells disposed between the front substrate and the rear substrate. The rear substrate includes a base film made of PET and coating layers containing PVDF and formed on upper and lower sides of the base film. Due to this structure, since the rear substrate has improved durability and weatherproof property, reliability of the solar cell module including the rear substrate is improved. | 02-14-2013 |
| 20130042901 | SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF THE SAME - A solar tracking system and method are provided. The solar tracking system comprises a photovoltaic cell device, a light sensor module to detect intensity of sunlight, a driving device, a history database, a time generator for generating an accurate present time and a control module. The control module controls the driving device to change an attitude of the photovoltaic cell device to track the sun by referencing sun position data entries in the history database according to the accurate present time and determine whether the intensity of the sunlight exceeds a specific threshold. When the intensity of the sunlight exceeds a specific threshold, the sun is tracked according to the intensity of sunlight and a present sun position is recorded in the history database. On the contrary, a restricted area around a referenced sun position data entry is searched to track the sun. | 02-21-2013 |
| 20130048049 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING PHOTOVOLTAIC PLANT OUTPUT USING LAGGING OR LEADING TRACKING ANGLE - A method and apparatus for operating a tracker to cause a solar module to track a position of the sun at a first angle of incidence, and, in response to identification of a lag or lead trigger condition, determine a second angle of incidence calculated by increasing or decreasing the first angle of incidence by a lagging or leading factor so as to lower electrical current output of the solar module, and thereafter operating the tracker to cause the solar module to track the position of the sun at the second angle of incidence. | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130048050 | PHOTONIC ENERGY CONCENTRATORS BY WAY OF FOLDED MATERIAL - Apparatus and methods related to solar energy are provided. A reflector array is formed from a sheet material. The reflector array includes light concentrators and hinge features. A reflective surface treatment is applied to at least some portions of the reflector array. The reflector array is folded from an initial configuration into an operable configuration by way of the hinges. Housing, framework, foam material or other supports maintain the operable configuration. Photovoltaic cells or other entities are disposed at respective target locations so as receive concentrated photonic energy by way of the light concentrators. | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130048051 | CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM MODULE WITH ACTUATOR CONTROL - An arrangement for use in a concentrating photovoltaic system including a module having plurality of solar cells are mounted on a first side, and a plurality of lenses are mounted on a second side. Drive motors are coupled to the module to enable it to track the sun during the course of the day. A sun sensor is attached to the housing to detect a predetermined timed pattern of light blocking to the sensor and for generating a control signal to the drive motors in response to such detection for moving the module to a predetermined fixed position. | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130048052 | LIGHT CONCENTRATION AND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM - An optical system for light energy concentration may comprise a light concentrator including two or more light-converging elements, a light splitting element to receive the converging light from the light-converging elements and to produce light having a first spectral component and light having a second spectral component, and a light directing element to direct the light having the first spectral component through a light guide and to direct the light having the second spectral component to a location external to the light guide. | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130048053 | SOLAR COLLECTOR HAVING FRESNEL MIRRORS - The present invention relates to a solar collector ( | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130056045 | SI CELLS WITH III-V MULTIJUNCTION CELLS - A solar conversion assembly comprises: a) a type III-V multiple cell stack solar cell device b) a silicon solar cell device c) a band splitting device located relative to the type III-V solar cell device and the silicon solar cell device. The band splitting device splits light falling on the splitting device into a plurality of wavelength bands and directs a first of said bands to the type III-V solar cell device and the second of said bands to the silicon solar cell device. | 03-07-2013 |
| 20130061908 | ANGLE ADJUSTMENT CONTROLLER AND METHOD FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS - A photovoltaic power system includes one or more photovoltaic cells that supplies an output power, a controller that controls an angle of the one or more photovoltaic cells with respect to an incident light, and a power converter that converts the output power of the photovoltaic cells to converted output power, wherein the power converter has a threshold input power. The controller is configured to control the angle of the one or more photovoltaic cells with respect to the incident light such that a total output power of the photovoltaic cells is at or below the threshold input power of the power converter. | 03-14-2013 |
| 20130061909 | DEVICE SHAPED SO THAT IT CAN BE USED ALONE TO SECURE A SOLAR PANEL TO A SINGLE BEAM OF A SUPPORT STRUCTURE, AND UNIT COMPRISING ONE SUCH DEVICE - The invention relates to a device which is shaped so that it can be used alone to secure a solar panel ( | 03-14-2013 |
| 20130068280 | SOLAR GENERATOR APPARATUS WITH ELASTICALLY CABLE-CONTROLLED TRACKING - A solar generator apparatus includes a generator module having first to fourth corner portions; a middle column; first and second winding devices attached to the middle column; first and second cables and first to fourth elastic anchors. The middle column has first and second ends, mounted on a fixed structure and pivotally connected to the generator module, respectively. The first cable, having two ends respectively connected to the first and third corner portions, is wound around the first winding device. The second cable, having two ends respectively connected to two ends of the second and fourth corner portions, is wound around the second winding device. The first to fourth elastic anchors are elastically mounted on the fixed structure. The first cable passes through the first and third elastic anchors to form a W-shaped structure. The second cable passes through the second and fourth elastic anchors to form another W-shaped structure. | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130068281 | Offset light concentrating - Offset light concentrating is disclosed. An example method includes providing a parabolic optic having an offset reflective surface for incident light. The method also includes offsetting a photovoltaic device from a path of the incident light. The method also includes concentrating light from the reflective surface of the parabolic optic on the photovoltaic device. | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130068282 | SOLAR TRACKING WITH HEAT REJECTION - Apparatus and methods related to solar energy are provided. A modular solar panel includes heat pipes to transfer heat away from photovoltaic cells. The solar panel is supported on a tracking mechanism and the heat pipes are coupled in thermal communication with heat exchangers. The solar panel is positioned by the tracking mechanism to follow the sun across the sky. Heat is transferred from the photovoltaic cells to the heat pipes and in turn to the heat exchangers, and is ultimately rejected from the system. | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130068283 | METHOD OF ADAPTIVE SOLAR TRACKING USING VARIABLE STEP SIZE - A method for controlling a photovoltaic (PV) panel in a PV system including a computing device that provides motor control signals and implements an iterative adaptive control (IAC) algorithm for adjusting an angle of the PV panel. The IAC algorithm relates P at a current time k (P(k)), an elevation angle of the PV panel at k (θ | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130068284 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM WITH MANAGED OUTPUT AND METHOD OF MANAGING VARIABILITY OF OUTPUT FROM A PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - Photovoltaic systems with managed output and methods for managing variability of output from photovoltaic systems are described. A system includes a plurality of photovoltaic modules configured to receive and convert solar energy. The system also includes a sensor configured to determine an orientation for each of the plurality of photovoltaic modules, the orientations based on a maximum output from the photovoltaic system. The system also includes an orientation system configured to alter the orientation of one or more of the plurality of photovoltaic modules to provide a reduced output from the photovoltaic system, the reduced output less than the maximum output. | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130074905 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH REFLECTIVE STACK - A photovoltaic device that includes a reflective stack. The reflective stack is formed from a transparent material between two metal layers. The reflective stack is located within the photovoltaic device to partially reflect wavelengths of radiation that do not substantially contribute to the photovoltaic effect. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130074906 | APPARATUS FOR CONVERTING THERMAL ENERGY TO ELECTRICAL ENERGY - Embodiments of an apparatus that can convert energy across a broad spectrum of wavelengths. These embodiments utilize concentrating optics in combination with one or more of an integrated filter, a cooling mechanism, and a high-efficiency low current cell architecture to form efficient and cost-effective TPV devices. During operation, these components reduce the ratio of cell area to emitter area by concentrating the energy the emitter emits, thereby reducing the total cost of materials and promoting efficiency through integrating the filter and cooling mechanism into the device design. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130081668 | THERMAL TRACKING FOR SOLAR SYSTEMS - A thermal tracking system for a concentrating photovoltaic system is disclosed. The thermal tracking system comprises a photovoltaic receiver. The photovoltaic receiver comprises a photovoltaic laminate and a heat spreader. The thermal tracking system further comprises first and second thermal sensors coupled to the photovoltaic laminate and sensing two temperatures of the laminate. The thermal tracking system also comprises third and fourth thermal sensors positioned adjacent the heat spreader and sensing two temperatures near the heat spreader. | 04-04-2013 |
| 20130081669 | MULTI SENSOR SOLAR COLLECTION SYSTEM - A system, method, and apparatus for a multi sensor solar collection system are disclosed herein. The disclosed method for controlling the disclosed multi sensor solar collection system involves providing a plurality of different sets of solar cells that have different spectral response properties. The method also involves focusing, with at least one focusing element, a light beam on a first set of the solar cells according to a current light condition. Further, the method involves focusing, with at least one focusing element, the light beam on a second set of the solar cells according to a change in the current light condition. In other embodiments, the method involves moving a planar mounting that the solar cells are mounted on to focus the light beam on the second set of solar cells according to the change in the current light condition. | 04-04-2013 |
| 20130081670 | PHOTOCELL - An improved photocell offering efficient power generation from broadband incident radiation, the photocell includes a first diode formed in single crystal silicon and one or more further diodes each formed in a single crystal Group II-VI semiconductor. In a preferred embodiment, a tandem photocell is provided that incorporates a first diode formed in single crystal silicon, a second diode formed in a Group II-VI semiconductor, an optional buffer layer and a highly doped layer of silicon acting as an optional tunnel junction between the two diodes. The device can additionally include a layer of silicon deposited at the rear of the structure to maximise current collection of longer wavelength light, and top and bottom (front and back) electrical contacts. In use, light impinges on the top (front) surface of the photocell and is absorbed (in turn) by diodes. | 04-04-2013 |
| 20130087182 | SOLAR CELLS ARRANGEMENT - A solar energy conversion system is presented. The system comprises at least one waveguide arrangement having at least one light input respectively. The waveguide arrangement comprises a core unit for passing input solar radiation therethrough and a cladding material arrangement interfacing with the core therealong. The cladding material arrangement is configured as an array of spaced-apart solar cells arranged along the core unit and having different optical absorption ranges, such that an interface between the waveguide core and the cladding arrangement spectrally splits the photons of the input solar radiation by causing the photons of different wavelengths, while passing through the core unit, to be successively absorbed and thereby converted into electricity by the successive solar cells of said array. | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130092211 | ASYMMETRIC MIM TYPE ABSORBENT NANOMETRIC STRUCTURE AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING SUCH A STRUCTURE - According to one aspect, the invention relates to an asymmetric MIM type absorbent nanometric structure ( | 04-18-2013 |
| 20130092212 | Submicron Gap Thermophotovoltaic Structure and Method - An improved submicron gap thermophotovoltaic structure and method comprising an emitter substrate with a first surface for receiving heat energy and a second surface for emitting infrared radiation across an evacuated submicron gap to a juxtaposed first surface of an infrared radiation-transparent window substrate having a high refractive index. A second surface of the infrared radiation-transparent substrate opposite the first surface is affixed to a photovoltaic cell substrate by an infrared-transparent compliant adhesive layer. Relying on the high refractive index of the infrared radiation-transparent window substrate, the low refractive index of the submicron gap and Snell's law, the infrared radiation received by the first surface of the infrared radiation-transparent window substrate is focused onto a more perpendicular path to the surface of the photovoltaic cell substrate. This results in increased electrical power output and improved efficiency by the thermophotovoltaic structure. | 04-18-2013 |
| 20130098425 | DUAL AXIS SOLAR TRACKER APPARATUS AND METHOD - The dual axis solar tracker apparatus and method uses an azimuth actuator to adjust the azimuth of an attached solar panel and an elevation actuator to adjust the elevation of a panel seat holding the solar panel to track the azimuth and elevation of the sun as it moves through the sky. The panel seat rotatably supports the solar panel with two pins, and a support structure supports the panel seat with an elevation tracking pivot. The actuators are controlled with an actuator controller circuit that is controlled by a microcontroller. The microcontroller uses information about latitude, longitude, time of day and date to control the actuators and track the motion of sun without the need for sensors. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130098426 | Leveling Device of Concentrated Photovoltaic Module - A leveling device for concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) modules rapidly adjusts a height level of CPV modules on a tracking system. The device makes the CPV modules receive most sunlight for outputting maximum power. The device rapidly adjusts the height level of CPV modules, reduces number of nuts required and, thus, shortens the adjusting time even after the CPV modules are installed. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130098427 | PARABOLOID REFLECTORS - An example of this disclosure relates to paraboloid reflectors. Another example of this disclosure relates to a collector panel including collector cells and paraboloid reflectors. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130104962 | PHOTONIC ENERGY CONCENTRATORS WITH STRUCTURAL FOAM | 05-02-2013 |
| 20130104963 | TARGETS FOR HELIOSTAT HEALTH MONITORING | 05-02-2013 |
| 20130104964 | SOLAR CELL AND SOLAR CELL MODULE AND METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAMES | 05-02-2013 |
| 20130112236 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MICROSTRUCTURE AND PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE IMPLEMENTING SAME - A photovoltaic device according to one embodiment includes an array of photovoltaically active microstructures each having a generally cylindrical outer periphery, each microstructure comprising a first photovoltaic layer over a core, and a second photovoltaic layer over the first photovoltaic layer thereby forming a photovoltaically active junction, wherein an outer conductive layer is positioned over the second photovoltaic layer, wherein an index of refraction of the outer conductive layer is less than an index of refraction of the second photovoltaic layer, wherein the index of refraction of the second photovoltaic layer is less than an index of refraction of the first photovoltaic layer, each of the microstructures being characterized as absorbing at least 70% of light passing an inner surface of an outer layer thereof. Additional embodiments are also presented. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130112237 | PHOTOVOLTAIC-THERMAL SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR WITH INTEGRATED BALANCE OF SYSTEM - Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity, heat, or a combination of electricity and heat are disclosed herein. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130112238 | CONDENSING LENS AND PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SYSTEM USING THE SAME - A condensing lens includes a lens body and a prism structure. The lens body has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other. The prism structure is disposed on the second surface of the lens body and has a plurality of annular prism units. The prism structure has at least two focuses in accordance with the annular prism units, and the focuses are distributed on a plane which is parallel to the first surface of the lens body. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130112239 | SOLAR ENERGY RECEIVER - Embodiments of the present invention may utilize one or more techniques, alone or in combination, to maximize a surface area of a receiver that is configured to convert light into another form of energy. One technique enhances collection efficiency by controlling a size, shape, and/or position of a cell relative to an expected illumination profile under various conditions. Another technique positions non-active elements (such as electrical contacts and/or interconnects) on surfaces likely to be shaded from incident light by other elements of the receiver. Another technique utilizes embodiments of interconnect structures occupying a small footprint. According to certain embodiments, the receiver may be cooled by exposure to a fluid such as water or air. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130112240 | POLAR-AXIS SOLAR TRACKER - The present invention relates to a polar-axis solar tracker comprising a series of rows of photovoltaic modules arranged on support structures formed by stringers and longitudinal shafts, wherein the support structures of the rows of photovoltaic modules are articulated in rotating assembly by means of hinges which establish an axis of rotation parallel to the shaft of said support structures of the photovoltaic modules, having an operating system which actuates the longitudinal movement of a bar, which actuates the pivoting rotation of the support structures of the photovoltaic modules on the corresponding hinges and through the connecting rods. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130112241 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE COMPRISING AN ELECTRICAL CONNECTION AND HAVING AN OPTICAL FUNCTION - The invention relates to a photovoltaic module comprising a plurality of photovoltaic cells electrically connected in series via connection means comprising electrical conductors. Each connection means comprises an optical device having a reflection-diffractive or transmission-diffractive optical behaviour, and each connection means consists of a sheet formed from a material transparent to incident rays containing at least one network of electrical conductor wires. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130112242 | Solar Energy Collection System - A method of concentrating directional radiant energy using reflective optics and receivers that convert that energy wherein the receivers are situated in the body of the reflector on risers parallel to the direction of radiant energy, each said riser bounded by at least one parabolic mirror lying closer and another lying farther from the energy source, where the focus or foci of said mirrors lie substantially in the direction faced by the receiver situated in said riser. The reflector geometries include ones in which the mirrors are parabolic cylinder sections and require only one-axis tacking to focus, and ones in which the mirrors are paraboloid sections and require two-axis tracking to focus sunlight. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130118547 | PHOTOVOLTAIC WINDOW WITH LIGHT-TURNING FEATURES - This disclosure provides systems, methods, and apparatus for directing light incident on a window towards photovoltaic cells. In one aspect, photovoltaic cells are arranged the perimeter of a window pane. The pane also includes light-turning features that divert a portion of the incident light towards the photovoltaic cells on the perimeter, while simultaneously transmitting a portion of incident light through the pane. The dimensions and arrangement of the light-turning features can be adjusted to change the amount of light diverted to the photovoltaic cells, and consequently the amount of light transmitted through the glass. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130118548 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR ENHANCING PHOTOVOLTAIC EFFICIENCY - This disclosure provides photovoltaic modules and methods of making the same. In one implementation, a photovoltaic module includes a plurality of photovoltaic devices configured to absorb light and generate electrical power and a plurality of conductors disposed over the photovoltaic devices. The photovoltaic module further includes a glass layer disposed over the photovoltaic devices, and the glass layer includes a textured surface opposite the plurality of photovoltaic devices. The textured surface includes features configured to diffract light incident the photovoltaic module. The photovoltaic module further includes a diffusive layer disposed over at least a portion of the plurality of conductors. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130118549 | SOLAR POWER CONCENTRATOR AND SOLAR POWER COLLECTING DEVICE USING SAME - A solar power collecting device includes a solar power concentrator and a solar cell. The solar power concentrator includes a fructoconical reflector and a converging lens. The reflector includes a fructoconical inner reflecting surface, a wide end open to an outside and a narrow end, the reflecting surface configured for reflecting and directing sunlight from the wide end to the narrow end. The converging lens is located at the narrow end of the reflector, and is configured for receiving and converging the reflected sunlight from the reflector and sunlight incident thereon directly from the wide end. The solar cell is configured for converting the converged sunlight from the solar power concentrator into electricity. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130118550 | INFRASTRUCTURE FOR SOLAR POWER INSTALLATIONS - The technology provides a plurality of examples for implementing solar cell, solar panels, and solar collection devices on natural looking installations such as faux trees and plants as well as objects mimicking natural ones. The technology allows the installation of solar power generating installations in a distributed manner on land and water. The installation of, for example, artificial plants as carriers of solar cells provides a number of benefits to society in addition to the generation of power. The aesthetics of a community are maintained, while at the same time the need for maintain natural plants is eliminated, providing financial and environmental savings for consumers and municipalities. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130118551 | COOLING CONTROL APPARATUS, PROGRAM, AND SOLAR CELL SYSTEM - There is provided a cooling control apparatus including a measurement unit that acquires a measured value of a power generation amount of a solar cell, and a cooling control unit that controls an intensity of cooling performed by a cooling mechanism of the solar cell in accordance with a relation between an expected value of the power generation amount of the solar cell and a measured value obtained by the measurement unit. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130118552 | THIN-FILM SOLAR CELL - A thin-film solar cell product, including:
| 05-16-2013 |
| 20130118553 | WAFER-BASED SOLAR CELL - A solar cell product including:
| 05-16-2013 |
| 20130118554 | LIGHT CONCENTRATING OPTICAL ELEMENT, LIGHT CONCENTRATING DEVICE, PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION DEVICE AND PHOTOTHERMAL CONVERSION DEVICE - A light concentrating optical element includes: a substrate; and a plurality of micro-optical members dispersed inside the substrate. The plurality of micro-optical members each direct light having been transmitted through the substrate and having entered a micro-optical member along an entering direction, so that the light exits the micro-optical member along a matching direction matching the entering direction, and direct light having entered the micro-optical member along an other entering direction, so that the light exits the micro-optical member along an exiting direction, resulting in an advancing direction of light having entered the substrate through a substrate front surface and advancing through the substrate being deflected via the plurality of micro-optical members to extend along the matching direction; and the light having been deflected so as to advance through the substrate along the matching direction is concentrated at an end area of the substrate. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130125955 | SOLAR CELL MODULE, AND SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH SAME - A solar cell module ( | 05-23-2013 |
| 20130133719 | CAM TURNTABLE, SUN-TRACKING DEVICE EQUIPPED WITH SAME AND CONTROL METHOD FOR THE DEVICE - Provided are a cam turntable ( | 05-30-2013 |
| 20130139867 | CONDENSING LENS, COMPOUND-EYE LENS CONDENSER, AND COMPOUND-EYE CONCENTRATING SOLAR CELL ASSEMBLY - A condensing lens, compound-eye lens condenser, and compound-eye concentrating-type solar cell assembly. The condensing lens is a convex lens that can reflect mutually parallel incident lights ( | 06-06-2013 |
| 20130146119 | SOLAR CELL SYSTEM - A solar cell system includes two solar cells. The two solar cells are located in contact with each other and connected in parallel. Each of the two solar cells includes a first electrode layer, a P-type silicon layer, an N-type silicon layer, and a second electrode layer. The first electrode layer, the P-type silicon layer, the N-type silicon layer, and the second electrode layer are arranged in series side by side along a first direction and in contact with each other, thereby cooperatively forming a integrated structure. A P-N junction is formed near an interface between the P-type silicon layer and the N-type silicon layer. The integrated structure has a first surface substantially parallel to the first direction and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first surface is used as a photoreceptive surface to directly receive incident light. | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130146120 | HIGH CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES AND METHODS OF FABRICATING THE SAME - A concentrator-type photovoltaic module includes a module enclosure having a rigid surface, and a flexible backplane within the enclosure and laminated to the rigid surface by an adhesive layer. The flexible backplane includes an array of interposer substrates having transfer-printed solar cells thereon and an interconnect network that provides electrical connections to the solar cells. A respective secondary spherical lens element is provided on respective ones of the solar cells within the enclosure. An optically transparent encapsulation layer may be provided on the secondary lens element of the respective ones of the solar cells, such that the secondary lens element including the encapsulation layer thereon has a different refractive index. A primary lens element is attached to the enclosure opposite to and spaced-apart from the rigid surface, and is positioned to concentrate light onto the respective ones of the solar cells through the secondary lens element thereon. | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130146121 | SOLAR LIGHT CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC CONVERSION SYSTEM USING A WAVELENGTH SPLITTER AND LAMBDA-SPECIFIC PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS OPTICALLY COUPLED TO LAMBDA-DEDICATED FIBERS ILLUMINATED BY RESPECTIVE SPLIT BEAMS - A solar light concentration photovoltaic conversion system, uses a solar light collector to focus collected light onto a termination of at least one multi-fiber cable. A wavelength splitter is optically coupled to the other termination of the multi-fiber cable for producing light beams of different wavelengths, each illuminating the optical termination of one or more lambda-dedicated tap fibers or multi-fiber cables. From the wavelength splitter depart a number of lambda-dedicated groups of tap fibers adapted to convey the radiation to remotely arranged lambda-specific photovoltaic cells, configured for efficiently converting light energy of the specific wavelength spectrum carried along respective fiber or group of fibers into electrical energy. The lambda-specific photovoltaic cells are formed onto light spreading structures optically coupled to a respective tap fiber or multi-fiber cable, adapted to trap the injected light and convert it into electricity. | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130146122 | SOLAR CELL MODULE AND PANEL, AND METHOD - A laminated module or panel of solar cells and a laminating method for making same comprise an optically transparent top layer and a thermally conductive rear sheet of melt flowable insulating thermoplastic. Solar cells are encapsulated between the top layer and the rear sheet, and electrical connections are provided between a front surface of one solar cell and the back surface of another solar cell. Light passing through the transparent top layer impinges upon the solar cells. Electrical connections may be provided by melt flowable electrically conductive molecularly flexible thermoplastic adhesive or by metal strips or by both. The laminated module in one embodiment may be molecularly flexible and/or may exhibit a particular flexural modulus. | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130146123 | Solar Panel Tracking and Mounting System - A method for tracking solar panels includes the steps (a) beginning a tracking cycle substantially at sunrise with adjacent tilting panels all horizontal, (b) tilting the adjacent panels in unison in a first angular direction toward the rising sun at a tilt rate that just avoids shading of adjacent panels, (c) reversing direction of panel tilt at a point that the panels reach either a maximum tilt limited by mechanical design, or the panel surfaces are orthogonal to the rising sun, (d) tilting the adjacent panels in a second angular direction, following movement of the sun and keeping the surface of the panels at right angles to the sun's position, until a point is reached that shadowing is imminent from the angle of the setting sun, and (e) reversing direction of panel tilt again to the first angular direction, adjusting tilt as the sun sets to avoid shading until the panels are again horizontal. | 06-13-2013 |
| 20130152997 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PREDICTING SOLAR IRRADIANCE VARIATION - An apparatus and method, as may be used for predicting solar irradiance variation, are provided. The apparatus may include a solar irradiance predictor processor ( | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130152998 | METHODS FOR ORIENTATION AND TILT IDENTIFICATION OF PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS AND SOLAR IRRADIANCE SENSORS - The present invention relates to methods and systems for identifying PV system and solar irradiance sensor orientation and tilt based on energy production, energy received, simulated energy production, estimated energy received, production skew, and energy received skew. The present invention relates to systems and methods for detecting orientation and tilt of a PV system based on energy production and simulated energy production; for detecting the orientation and tilt of a solar irradiance sensor based on solar irradiance observation and simulated solar irradiance observation; for detecting orientation of a PV system based on energy production and energy production skew; and for detecting orientation of a solar irradiance sensor based on solar irradiance observation and solar irradiance observation skew. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130152999 | PHOTOVOLTAIC COMPONENT FOR USE UNDER CONCENTRATED SOLAR FLUX - A photovoltaic component including a set of layers suitable for producing a photovoltaic device is disclosed. The component has at least one first layer made of a conductive material forming a back electrical contact, a second layer made of a material that is absorbent in the solar spectrum, and a third layer made of a transparent conductive material forming a front electrical contact, and an electrically insulating layer arranged between said back electrical contact and said front electrical contact. The third layer is discontinuous in order to allow said layers of said set of layers to be stacked in one or more zones to form, in each of these zones, an active photovoltaic zone, and a fourth layer made of a conductive material, making electrical contact with said third layer made of a transparent conductive material, to form a peripheral electrical contact for each of said photovoltaic microcells. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130153000 | MULTI-BAND LIGHT COLLECTION AND ENERGY CONVERSION MODULE - A multi-band light collection and energy conversion module includes a multi-band solar concentrator and an energy conversion device. The multi-band solar concentrator is used for splitting an incident light into a plurality of light beams and for concentrating the plurality of light beams on a plurality of primary spots separated from each other, respectively. The energy conversion device includes a plurality of energy conversion units being corresponding to and disposed at the primary spots separated from each other individually. Each of the energy conversion units has an individual absorption spectrum peak corresponding to a wavelength of the light beam of the primary spot where the energy conversion unit is disposed. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130160816 | SUPPORT FOR SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTORS - A solar energy collection system can include support devices made with bearings formed from sheet material. These bearings can be optionally formed so as to provide tool-less connections to their associated bearing housings. The bearings can be formed with an open configuration allowing a shaft to be inserted into an open bite of the bearing. Optionally, the bearing can be made from an ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene plastic material. Additionally, two open-type bearing assemblies can be mounted axially offset and opposed to one another. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130160817 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module is provided, including a solar collector, a solar cell chip panel and a cooling pipeline system. The solar collector includes a first optical surface and a second optical surface, wherein light enters the solar collector from the first optical surface, and then exits from the second optical surface after collection. The solar cell chip panel has a light-receiving surface for receiving the light exited from the second optical surface. The solar cell chip panel includes a photovoltaic conversion material capable of absorbing a specific spectrum band in the light and converting that into electricity. The cooling pipeline system allows water to flow therein and includes a heat absorber, wherein the light exits to the light-receiving surface of the solar cell chip panel through the heat absorber, and the water flowing through the heat absorber absorbs light beyond the specific spectrum band. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130160818 | SOLAR CELL SYSTEM - A solar cell system includes a substrate, a number of solar cells and a number of reflectors. The substrate defines a number of grooves spaced from each other. Each solar cell is located in each groove. Each solar cell includes a first electrode layer, a P-type silicon layer, an N-type silicon layer, and a second electrode layer arranged in series side by side along a first direction and in contact with each other, thereby cooperatively forming an integrated structure. A P-N junction is formed between the P-type silicon layer and the N-type silicon layer. The integrated structure has a photoreceptive surface to expose the P-N junction and receive an incident light directly. Each reflector is located between each solar cell and each groove. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130160819 | SOLAR CELL SYSTEM SUBSTRATE - A solar cell system substrate includes a plurality of grooves on a surface of a body and a plurality of conductive wires on the body and between the plurality of grooves. Each of the plurality of grooves is spaced from each other and configured to accommodate at least one solar cell. Each of the plurality of conductive wires is configured to electrically connecting each of the at least one solar cell. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130160820 | FOCUSING SOLAR LIGHT GUIDE MODULE - A focusing solar light guide module includes a lens array plate and a light guide plate. The lens array plate includes at least one lens. Each lens receiving and focusing a sunlight has an upper curved surface and a lower plane surface. The light guide plate has an upper plane surface parallel to the lower plane surface of the lens array plate and a lower microstructure surface. The lower microstructure surface includes at least one depressed area and at least one connection area parallel to the upper plane surface of the light guide plate. The connection area is connected between the adjacent depressed areas having a depressed point, a first inclined plane and a second inclined plane. The first inclined plane and the second inclined plane are respectively connected between the depressed point and the adjacent connection area. | 06-27-2013 |
| 20130167902 | SOLAR CELL AND SOLAR CELL SYSTEM - A solar cell includes an integrated structure and a reflector. The integrated structure includes a first electrode layer, a P-type silicon layer, an N-type silicon layer, and a second electrode layer arranged in the above sequence; a P-N junction near an interface between the P-type silicon layer and the N-type silicon layer; a photoreceptive surface exposing the P-N junction. The photoreceptive surface is on a curved surface of the integrated structure and is configured to receive incident light beams. The reflector is on another side of the integrated structure, opposite to the photoreceptive surface. | 07-04-2013 |
| 20130167903 | ENCAPSULATED SOLAR ENERGY CONCENTRATOR - A holographic planar concentrator of solar energy employing an array of holographically-recorded diffraction grating elements adjoining the corresponding bifacial or monofacial PV-cell. Diffracting grating elements are configured to operate in transmission and/or reflection. The array is sandwiched and, optionally, encapsulated between the two layers of structurally supporting material that are impermeable to ambient moisture. The grating elements can be blazed and the material layer in which the gratings are recorded is protected from the moisture in the ambient environment by a moisture impermeable encapsulant. | 07-04-2013 |
| 20130167904 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL THIN-FILM SOLAR CELLS - A three-dimensional thin-film solar cell | 07-04-2013 |
| 20130167905 | Terrestrial Solar Tracking Photovoltaic Array with Offset Solar Cell Modules - Terrestrial solar tracking photovoltaic arrays that may include a modular design that is sized and weighted to facilitate installation with a small amount of manpower. The array may further be adapted to be adjusted during or after installation to accommodate the necessary power requirements. The terrestrial solar tracking photovoltaic array may include a torque tube that may be constructed of discrete sections. A drive may be connected to the torque tube to rotate the torque tube. A number of solar cell modules may be connected to the torque tube. The modules may be positioned at offsetting angular orientations depending upon their distance away from the drive. This offset positioning compensates for twisting distortion of the torque tube caused by the drive rotating the torque tube. At one point of rotation, each of the solar cell modules may be substantially aligned in a common plane | 07-04-2013 |
| 20130174890 | LIGHT COLLECTING SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module allows sunlight collected in a vertical direction to be propagated to a solar cell by horizontal reflection, thereby shortening a focal length of travel of the sunlight and reducing a thickness thereof. In the solar cell module which collects sunlight and converts solar energy to electrical energy, the sunlight is collected in a parallel fashion in preset sections, and then the sunlight is propagated to the solar cell by being reflected at least once in each section. This configuration makes it possible for the overall size and weight of the solar cell module to be reduced because the focal length along which received sunlight is collected is reduced by reducing a width of the light-collecting module collecting the sunlight. Since the light-collecting module is divided into preset sections, the sunlight is received via a plurality of convex and concave lenses and parabolic reflectors in each section. | 07-11-2013 |
| 20130180568 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE SUPPORT SYSTEM - 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. | 07-18-2013 |
| 20130180569 | RECEIVER - A receiver for a solar radiation-based electrical power generation system comprises a plurality of photovoltaic cells, with the cells being arranged in modules, with each module comprising one or more than one cell, and with the modules being arranged in subarrays, with each subarray comprising a plurality of modules. The receiver also comprises a support framework for the subarrays. | 07-18-2013 |
| 20130186451 | Off-angle Tracker - The present invention is a light tracking collector comprising, an optical module which is configured to rotate about a tilt axis so that a spin axis of the optical module maintains a fixed angle with respect to incident light. Furthermore, the optical module is configured such that incident light that is at a fixed angle with respect to the spin axis will be transformed into converging light that is incident upon a receiver. In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the receiver is a photovoltaic cell and the module is mounted unto a building, or any other suitable man made structure. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130192658 | SOLAR PANEL MODULE - A solar panel module includes a solar panel, a supporting stand and a deflecting device. The supporting stand is structurally connected to the solar panel for supporting the solar panel. The solar panel is disposed inclinedly, and the solar panel has a tilt angle with respect to a horizontal plane. The deflecting device is disposed underneath the solar panel for deflecting wind blowing from lateral directions toward a wind exiting direction, which faces a bottom surface of the solar panel. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130192659 | Solar Tracking System - A solar tracking system comprising a bed rotatable about a turntable, the bed supporting at least one post structure, the post structure supporting a solar panel assembly, the solar panel assembly being pivotable to the post structure about a horizontal axis, and direct drive means to rotate the bed and pivot the solar panel assembly, whereby ball and socket linkages secure the solar panel assembly to the post structure and a lever arm coupled to the solar panel assembly through ball and socket linkages imparts drive to cause the solar panel assembly to pivot about a horizontal axis and a floating drive is positioned between the bed and the turntable so that the tracking system can absorb twisting deflections. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130192660 | DENSE RECEIVER ARRAY WITH BYPASS ELEMENT - This disclosure describes embodiments of a receiver component that can support a plurality of photovoltaic devices, which collectively are useful to generate electricity from sunlight. The receiver component can comprise a substrate that integrates one or more bypass elements (e.g., a diode) and a cooling mechanism coupled to the substrate to dissipate thermal energy by dispersing a cooling fluid thereon. In this manner, embodiments of the receiver component combine in a single package the features necessary to maintain performance of the photovoltaic devices, e.g., to achieve sufficient electrical output while reducing costs and manufacturing time. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130192661 | LARGE AREA CONCENTRATOR LENS STRUCTURE AND METHOD - A solar module includes a substrate member, a plurality of photovoltaic strips arranged in an array configuration overlying the substrate member, and a concentrator structure comprising extruded glass material operably coupled to the plurality of photovoltaic strips. A plurality of elongated convex regions are configured within the concentrator structure. The plurality of elongated convex regions are respectively coupled to the plurality of photovoltaic strips. Each of the plurality of elongated convex regions includes a length and a convex surface region characterized by a radius of curvature, each of the elongated convex regions being configured to have a magnification ranging from about 1.5 to about 5. A coating material rendering the glass self-cleaning overlies the plurality of elongated convex regions. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130192662 | Paired Photovoltaic Cell Module - A photovoltaic module comprised of one or more single-sided or double-sided photovoltaic cells that are angled to the source of energy (i.e., the Sun) and that may include a reflector. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130192663 | SINGLE AND MULTI-JUNCTION LIGHT AND CARRIER COLLECTION MANAGEMENT CELLS - A material design is provided for a light and carrier collection (LCCM) architecture in single junction and multi-junction photovoltaic and light sensor devices. The LCCM architecture improves performance and, when applied to single or multi-junctions, can lead to solar cells on flexible plastic substrates which can be easily deployed and even draped over various shapes and forms. The device has an array of conducting nano-elements in electrical and physical contact with the planar electrode. A spacer of 0 to 100 nm in thickness may be used to contact the array of conducting nano-elements. One or more volume regions comprised of at least one light absorbing material is present with the first in simultaneous contact with said spacer to form an operating photovoltaic single- or multi-junction device with periodic undulations to enhance trapping of the impinging light and photocarrier collection throughout the absorber volume regions. | 08-01-2013 |
| 20130199594 | TRANSPORTABLE PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - A transportable photovoltaic system includes a plurality of photovoltaic devices, a composite frame to which the plurality of photovoltaic devices are affixed, and a base structure to which the composite frame is movably attached through at least one variable-angle mount structure. The orientation of the frame and the light concentrating elements relative to the base structure can be altered employing the at least one variable-angle mount structure. The frame and the plurality of photovoltaic devices can be assembled prior to shipping, and the base structure can be manufactured on site. The transportable photovoltaic system is not affixed to ground or other fixture, but can be picked up at any time during the operational lifetime. The transportable photovoltaic system can be rapidly deployed with little or no site preparation requirement other than generally level ground, and can be retracted to a lower exposure position to avoid storm and/or hazardous conditions. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20130199595 | SOLAR CONCENTRATOR COOLING BY VORTEX GAS CIRCULATION - A convective method is employed to cool a solar concentrator device. The convective method employs formation of a vortex gas circulation inside an enclosure of the solar concentrator device, which is bounded by at least one light-path altering component, sidewalls, and a back panel. Optionally, a heat sink assembly can be provided within the enclosure. Internal convention through the vortex gas circulation transfers the heat generated at a photovoltaic cell to all surfaces of the solar concentrator device to facilitate radiative and/or convective cooling at the outside surfaces of the enclosure. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20130206205 | Solar Power System and Solar Energy Chasing Method Thereof - A solar power system and a solar energy chasing method. Errors may be corrected in the installation area of a solar energy collecting plate with solar cells, particularly, in the installation direction thereof. Therefore, a control angle may be operated and determined, so that the solar cells or the solar energy collecting plate may be rotated precisely in the desired direction. In the case of disposing a plurality of solar energy collecting plates, the solar energy collecting plates may be controlled according to a predetermined rotation angle, thereby increasing solar energy absorbing efficiency. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130206206 | PHOTO VOLTAIC GENERATOR PANEL, METHOD AND SYSTEM - A method is provided of fabricating a photo voltaic generator panel ( | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130206207 | Low Cost Focussing System Giving High Concentrations - There is disclosed a focussing system for concentrating radiation onto a target surface, comprising: a first reflective element forming part of the surface of a cone axially aligned along a first alignment axis, the first reflective element being positioned such that when planar radiation is incident on the first reflective element in a direction parallel to the first alignment axis, the planar radiation is focussed towards a first focus lying along the first alignment axis, wherein said part of the surface of a cone is contained within a sector having an included angle of less than 180 degrees; and a second reflective element having a reflective surface that at all points is flat in a direction parallel to a single reference direction, the second reflective element being positioned between the first reflective element and the first focus such that, when planar radiation is incident on the first reflective element in a direction parallel to the first alignment axis, radiation reflected from the first reflective element onto the second reflective element is focussed towards a second focus. A multiple target focussing system comprising a plurality of focussing systems, solar powered systems using focussing systems, kits, telescopes, defocussing light sources, and methods for assembling focussing systems are also disclosed. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130206208 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING PLACEMENT OF PHOTOVOLTAIC STRIPS USING DISPLACEMENT SENSORS - A method for forming a solar energy collection device includes receiving a sheet of glass comprising glass material, wherein the sheet of glass includes a plurality of light concentrating geometric features, measuring geometric characteristics for the plurality of light concentrating geometric features, mathematically calculating predicted light concentration characteristics for each of the plurality of light concentrating geometric features in response to the geometric characteristics, determining placement locations for a plurality of PV strips in response to the predicted light concentration characteristics for each of the plurality of light concentrating geometric features, and securing the plurality of PV strips relative to the sheet of glass in response to the placement locations for the plurality of PV strips. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130206209 | Conversion of Solar Energy - A solar energy plant/system includes different combinations of solar energy receivers and arrangements of the receivers that make it possible to optimize solar energy collection and conversion into other forms of energy to maximise value. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130206210 | SOLAR BATTERY MODULE, PHOTOVOLTAIC APPARATUS, AND MANUFACTURING METHOD OF SOLAR BATTERY MODULE - A solar battery module includes a device array, a substrate, a first sealing portion, a rear-surface protective member, a second sealing portion, and a light scattering portion. The light scattering portion has wavelength selectivity such that an optical reflectivity is not more than 15% over a wavelength region of 500 nanometers to 600 nanometers inclusive, and an optical reflectivity becomes larger than 15% in a wavelength region overlapping on an absorption wavelength range of the photovoltaic device in one of wavelength regions of not more than 350 nanometers and equal to or larger than 700 nanometers, and total integrated scattering of the light scattering portion becomes equal to or larger than 50% in the wavelength region overlapping on the absorption wavelength range of the photovoltaic device in one of the wavelength regions of not more than 350 nanometers and equal to or larger than 700 nanometers. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20130213454 | COATINGS FOR OPTICAL COMPONENTS OF SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS - The present application is directed to a method of providing a coating to a surface of an optical element of a solar energy conversion system. The method comprises contacting the surface of the optical element with an aqueous coating composition comprising water and silica nanoparticles dispersed in the water, and drying the coating composition to form a nanoparticle coating. The coating composition has a pH of the composition of 5 or higher. The coating composition comprises an aqueous continuous liquid phase; silica nanoparticles having a volume average particle diameter of 150 nanometers or less dispersed in the aqueous continuous liquid phase; and an organic polymer binder. | 08-22-2013 |
| 20130220399 | HYBRID WEDGE SHAPED/MICROSTRUCTURED LIGHT COLLECTOR - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus including a hybrid wedge shaped/microstructured light collector that is optically coupled to one or more photovoltaic cells. In one aspect, the hybrid wedge shaped/microstructured light collector includes a wedge shaped light guide having an inclined light receiving surface that can collect light incident at angles in the range from about 60 degrees to about 90 degrees with respect to a normal to the inclined light receiving surface. Additionally, the hybrid wedge shaped/microstructured light collector includes a microstructured light collector that can collect light incident at angles in the range from about 0 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to a normal to the inclined light receiving surface. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130220400 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module includes a plurality of solar cells each comprising a substrate, an emitter region placed at the substrate, and an anti-reflection region placed on the emitter region. The anti-reflection region includes a first opening region through which part of the emitter region is exposed and one or more second opening regions through which part of the emitter region is exposed. A first electrode is connected to the exposed emitter region of the first opening region through the anti-reflection region by metal plating and a first bus bar is connected to the exposed emitter region of one or more second opening regions through the anti-reflection region by metal plating. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130220401 | BIFACIAL CRYSTALLINE SILICON SOLAR PANEL WITH REFLECTOR - Bifacial crystalline solar cells and associated solar panel systems are provided. The cells include a p-type crystalline silicon layer and a barrier layer. The panels include at least two rows of cells. The cells in each row are connected to one another in series. The rows are connected in parallel. A reflector is used to reflect light towards the underside of the panel. A long axis of the reflector is arranged to be parallel to the rows of cells. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130220402 | COATINGS FOR OPTICAL COMPONENTS OF SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS - The present application is directed to a method of providing a coating to a surface of an optical element of a solar energy conversion system. The method comprises coating the surface of the optical element with an aqueous coating composition comprising water and silica nanoparticles dispersed in the water; and drying the coating composition to form a nanoparticle coating. The silica nanoparticles comprise a polymer core surrounded by a shell comprising nonporous silica particles disposed on the polymer core. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130228210 | Low Cost High Efficiency Solar Concentrator With Tracking Receivers - One embodiment of the invention relates to a light concentrator apparatus including a reflector with an open substantially hemispherical reflecting surface characterized by a radius R, and an aperture for admitting light onto the hemispherical reflecting surface. The light concentrator apparatus further includes a movable elongated light collector having a first end located proximal to the reflecting surface; and extending along a longitudinal axis in a direction substantially normal to the reflecting surface to a second end. The light concentrator further includes a tracker configured to move the first end of the collector to points proximal to the reflecting surface. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130240016 | HEAT DISSIPATION STRUCTURE - A heat dissipation structure is provided and includes a plurality of heat conduction bases and at least one flexible fin. Each of the heat conduction bases includes a first surface and a second surface. A positioning groove is formed in the first surface of each of the heat conduction bases, and the second surface of each of the heat conduction bases is assembled to a backlight surface of a solar module. The fin is coupled to the positioning grooves and connected between the heat conduction bases. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130240017 | PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL MODULE HEAT EXTRACTION ASSEMBLY - An assembly for extracting heat from a photovoltaic cell assembly for a receiver of a solar radiation-based electrical power generating system is disclosed. The assembly comprises a coolant chamber and a coolant member in the form of a plurality of heat transfer fingers of high thermal conductivity material that are located in the coolant chamber. The fingers have ends that are in thermal contact with the photovoltaic cell assembly and thereby facilitate heat transfer away from the assembly. The fingers are sufficiently flexible to accommodate differences in thermal expansion coefficient between the object and the fingers. The fingers have a relatively high surface area for heat transfer from the fingers to coolant that, in use, circulates through the coolant chamber. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130240018 | ROBOTIC SUNLIGHT TRACKING APPARATUS - A robotic sunlight tracking apparatus reduces power consumption and improves efficiency of solar photovoltaic power generation. The apparatus includes a solar cell module for converting sunlight into electricity, a rotation shaft connected to a backside of the solar cell module for supporting the solar cell module while rotating, a cylindrical body under the rotation shaft having a cam with a curvature formed as a recess in a surface of the cylindrical body and a motor built therein to rotate in one direction by operation of a timer, and fixing means for fixing the cylindrical body to ground. The rotation shaft includes a cam follower at one side of the cylindrical body placed in the cam for moving following the cam as the motor rotates, and a lift arm connected to the cam follower for moving up/down, adjusting an angle of the solar cell module when the cam follower moves. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130247959 | Cover Substrate For Photovoltaic Module And Photovoltaic Module Having The Same - A cover substrate for a photovoltaic module and a photovoltaic module having the same, in which light energy is converted into electrical energy. The cover substrate includes a substrate having a raised array pattern on a surface on which light is incident, and an anti-reflection film formed on the surface on which light is incident. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130247960 | SOLAR-LIGHT CONCENTRATION APPARATUS - A photovoltaic solar-light concentration apparatus comprises a focusing layer having a plurality of focusing elements disposed adjacent to each other. A waveguide optically coupled and separated from the focusing layer has an exit surface and a plurality of deflecting elements. Each of the deflecting elements receives a band shaped solar-light beam from a corresponding focusing element. The deflecting elements are shaped and disposed so as to deflect and trap the solar-light beams inside the waveguide at an angle that insures total internal reflection. This concentrated solar-light is conveyed along a main direction perpendicular to the exit surface towards a single or multi-junction photovoltaic cell coupled to the waveguide via a secondary optical element. The multi-junction PV cell is customized to respond to the spectral light emerging from the waveguide as changed by the partial absorption through the optics that is molded of a plastic resin. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130255749 | ELECTRONIC COMPONENT HOUSING WITH HEAT SINK - A photovoltaic assembly for converting solar radiation to electrical energy is described. The photovoltaic assembly includes a photovoltaic module and an electronic component housing. The photovoltaic module has a frame, a laminate, a plurality of solar cells and a backsheet. The electronic component housing has an upper section to couple to the backsheet, a middle section and a lower section for enclosing electronic components. The electronic components can include a microinverter or electronics for a junction box. The middle section can have a heat sink in thermal communication with the electronic component and an opening. The opening can be a plurality of openings having a plurality of air fins distributed therein, or can be a diagonal or curved structure. The opening can permit fluid communication between the heat sink and an ambient environment. The upper section and/or the aforementioned air fins can also be coupled to the backsheet via a heat conductive adhesive. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130255750 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE COOLING DEVICES - A chip module cooling device includes two fluid circuits corresponding to inlet and outlet fluid circuits, respectively, wherein each comprises orifices and channel portions forming a tree structure, wherein branches represent the orifices, and nodes represent the channel portions, a branch linking a node to one child node only, wherein several nodes having a same parent node are sibling nodes and extends through L levels of the tree structure, with L≧3, and in fluidic connection with the other of the two fluid circuits, via channel portions corresponding to leaf nodes. For each fluid circuit, channel portions corresponding to sibling nodes are parallel to each other, and are not parallel to a channel portion corresponding to a parent node of the sibling nodes; and wherein channel portions of one of the fluid circuits are parallel to and interdigitated with channel portions of the other one of the fluid circuits. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130263914 | COAXIAL DRIVE TRACKING SYSTEM FOR USE WITH PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS - A solar energy collection system for converting solar energy to electricity that includes solar arrays mounted on a frame. Each array is set on a tracker head that is supported on a pedestal; each pedestal mounts onto a beam. Elevators pivot the arrays, where each elevator is made up of a shaft with a threaded end coupled to a drive nut. An upper end of each drive nut gimbal mounts to a portion of the tracker head; rotating a lower end of each shaft raises or lowers the drive nut, thereby pivoting each array. The vertical shafts are ganged together and driven by a single motor. Further included with each pedestal are azimuth orientation shafts that also mount to each tracker head. Rotating each orientation shaft adjusts an azimuth of an associated array. The orientation shafts are ganged together and are rotated by a single motor. | 10-10-2013 |
| 20130269751 | ADAPTIVE LENSES FOR SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION - A solar cell assembly, including an electric-optically transducing layer, an electrically conducting layer, and an electrically insulating layer positioned between the electric-optically transducing layer and the electrically conducting layer. The assembly includes a hydrophobic layer, a dielectric layer positioned between the electrically conducting layer and the hydrophobic layer, and a liquid microdroplet lens positioned in contact with the hydrophobic layer. The electrically conducting layer, the electrically conducting layer, the hydrophobic layer and the dielectric layer are substantially optically transparent. The liquid microdroplet lens may optionally be contained within a substantially optically transparent lens compartment. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130269752 | MOUNTING ASSEMBLIES, SOLAR TRACKERS, AND RELATED METHODS - Mounting assemblies, solar trackers, and methods of reducing the torque load of a solar tracker are provided. A mounting assembly comprises at least one support column, a torsion beam connected to the support column, and a mounting rack attached to the torsion beam. A longitudinal pivot axis extends through the torsion beam. The mounting rack has a rear surface and a curved mounting surface such that a weight of one or more components mounted thereto is shifted toward the pivot axis. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130269753 | MOUNTING ASSEMBLIES, SOLAR TRACKERS, AND RELATED METHODS - Mounting assemblies, solar trackers, and methods of reducing the torque load of a solar tracker are provided. A mounting assembly comprises at least one support column, a torsion beam connected to the support column, and a mounting rack attached to the torsion beam. A longitudinal pivot axis extends through the torsion beam. The mounting rack has a substantially flat mounting surface and a curved rear surface such that a weight of one or more components mounted thereto is shifted toward the pivot axis. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130269754 | PHOTOVOLTAIC ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN DIFFUSE WEATHER CONDITIONS AND RELATED METHODS - A method includes collecting site specific data, collecting field data at a site of an array of photovoltaic members, determining a current tracked irradiance of the array of photovoltaic members, calculating predicted irradiance for multiple orientations based on the site specific data and the sensed field data, or sensing an actual irradiance for multiple orientations. The method further includes determining a maximum predicted irradiance from the calculated predicted irradiance or a maximum actual irradiance from the sensed irradiance. The method further includes comparing the maximum predicted irradiance or the maximum sensed irradiance with the current tracked irradiance, and re-orienting the array of photovoltaic members to an orientation having the maximum predicted or actual irradiance if the maximum predicted or actual irradiance is greater than the current tracked irradiance. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130276861 | SOLAR ANTENNA ARRAY AND ITS FABRICATION - A solar antenna array may comprise an array of antennas that may capture and convert sunlight into electrical power. Methods for constructing the solar antenna array may use a stencil and self aligning semiconductor processing steps to minimize cost. Designs may be optimized for capturing a broad spectrum of visible light and non-polarized light. Testing and disconnecting defective antennas from the array may also be performed. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130276862 | AUTOMATIC SOLAR TRACKING ADJUSTMENT/CONTROL APPARATUS OF SOLAR GENERATION SYSTEM - An automatic solar tracking adjustment/control apparatus of solar generation system includes a support assembly, a two-dimensionally movable pivotal rotational assembly disposed on the support assembly, a solar generation module disposed on the support assembly via the pivotal rotational assembly and at least one drive assembly disposed between the support assembly and the solar generation module. The drive assembly drives the solar generation module to tilt in different directions and angles according to reference parameters in a control unit. A detection/correction module is disposed on the solar generation module for detecting actual parameters of the solar generation module. The control unit compares the actual parameters with the reference parameters to modify the output of the drive assembly so as to adjust the tilting direction and inclination angle of the solar generation module. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130276863 | ADJUSTING DEVICE - An adjusting device for adjusting orientation of an energy conversion board comprises a first frame member, a second frame member, a third frame member and a base. The first frame member contains the energy conversion board. The second frame member holds the first frame member. The third frame member holds the second frame member. The base supports the third frame including the other frames and the energy conversion board. The first frame member is rotatable relative to the second frame member, the second frame member is rotatable relative to the third frame, and the third frame member is rotatable relative to the base. The first rotating axis is perpendicular to the second rotating axis, and the third rotating axis is coaxial with the first rotating axis. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130276864 | Two-Axis Solar Tracker Design for Low Cost Deployment and Profile for Reduced Loading Moments - A motion controlled tracking mount is provided that includes a lateral rail perpendicular to a longitudinal rail, a first translation element slides on the lateral rail and a second translation element slides on the longitudinal rail and slides onto the lateral rail, a first rotatable connector attached to the first translation element and a second rotatable connector attached to the second translation element that rotate about axes perpendicular to the lateral and longitudinal rails, an apparatus mount with a distal region pivotably connected to the second rotatable connector, where the pivotable connection axis is parallel to a lateral dimension of the mount, and a linkage with a proximal end pivotable connected to the first rotatable connector and a distal end is pivotably connected to a proximal region of the mount, where an axis of the pivotable connection at the distal end is parallel to the lateral dimension of the mount. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130276865 | SAW-TOOTH SHAPED SOLAR MODULE - A photovoltaic module, configured for inclined (with respect to the horizontal surface) installation at a chosen latitude as part of rows of such photovoltaic modules, is complemented with a diffractive element that is configured to form a combination in which a gap between neighboring rows is bridged by the diffractive element to diffract sunlight incident onto so installed diffractive element towards the photovoltaic module. The photovoltaic module and the diffractive elements can be connected to one another in a turnable fashion, for example through hinge, to enable electrical power generation that is substantially time-invariable throughout a portion of a year. Photovoltaic module optionally includes internal holographically-defined diffraction gratings and/or bifacial photovoltaic cells. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130276866 | Linear Concentrating Solar Collector With Decentered Trough-Type Reflectors - A linear concentrating solar collector includes two trough-type reflectors having respective curved reflective surfaces that define respective focal lines, and are connected along a common edge in a decentered arrangement such that the focal lines are parallel and spaced-apart, and such that solar radiation reflected by the curved reflective surfaces is concentrated and overlaps in a defocused state. A solar cell is disposed in the overlap region to receive the all of the reflected radiation from the curved reflective surfaces in a defocused state. An optional solid optical structure is used to support and position the trough-type reflectors and solar cell, and to facilitate self-forming of the curved reflective surfaces. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130276867 | Support Assembly for Supporting Photovoltaic Modules - 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. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130284235 | SOLAR CELL AND SOLAR CELL MODULE - To provide a solar cell having improved photoelectric conversion efficiency and a solar cell module. A solar cell ( | 10-31-2013 |
| 20130291925 | SOLAR CELL WAFER AND METHOD OF PRODUCING THE SAME - A solar cell wafer having a porous layer on a surface of a semiconductor wafer typified by a silicon wafer, which can further reduce reflection loss of light at the surface. A solar cell wafer | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130291926 | Solar Tracking Apparatus - A solar tracking apparatus is provided having pivoting struts located proximate the north and south sides of the collector surface. The crossed struts permit the inclination angle of the collector surface to be varied throughout the day without heavy supports. The support frame can be adapted for quick assembly, disassembly and transportation. | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130291927 | SOLAR POWER GENERATION METHOD WITH NON-EQUIDIRECTIONAL SOLAR TRACKING STAGES AND APPARATUS THEREOF - A solar power generation method with non-equidirectional solar tracking stages and an apparatus thereof. At the sunrise stage, a solar power generation module is gradually pivotally rotated from an initial position to the sun in a direction reverse to the moving direction of the sun. After the solar power generation module is rotated to a position of first preset elevation and azimuth, where the solar power generation module right faces the sun, the solar power generation module starts to pivotally rotate along with the change of the position of the sun. When the sun and the solar power generation module synchronously move to a position of second preset elevation and azimuth, the solar power generation module is driven to gradually pivotally rotate back to the initial position in a direction reverse to the moving direction of the sun waiting for the next cycle. | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130291928 | PHOTOVOLTAIC EQUIPMENT - A photovoltaic unit can minimally reduce a displacement of focus positions from solar cells and prevent a decrease in power generation efficiency even if elastic behaviors of a Fresnel lens sheet and a base plate on which solar cells are arranged due to changes in temperature and humidity are different. The photovoltaic unit includes an integrated multiple Fresnel lens sheet and a base plate on which solar cells are arranged adjacent to the focus positions of individual Fresnel lenses. The multiple Fresnel lens sheet is fixed to the base plate by a lens sheet fixing element at a lens sheet fixing portion adjacent to the center of gravity of the sheet. | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130298963 | LATERAL PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE FOR NEAR FIELD USE - A device, method and process of fabricating an interdigitated multicell thermo-photo-voltaic component that is particularly efficient for generating electrical energy from photons in the red and near-infrared spectrum received from a heat source in the near field. Where the absorbing region is germanium, the device is capable of generating electrical energy by absorbing photon energy in the greater than 0.67 electron volt range corresponding to radiation in the infrared and near-infrared spectrum. Use of germanium semiconductor material provides a good match for converting energy from a low temperature heat source. The side that is opposite the photon receiving side of the device includes metal interconnections and dielectric material which provide an excellent back surface reflector for recycling below band photons back to the emitter. Multiple cells may be fabricated and interconnected as a monolithic large scale array for improved performance. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130298964 | MANAGEABLE HYBRID PLANT USING PHOTOVOLTAIC AND SOLAR THERMAL TECHNOLOGY AND ASSOCIATED OPERATING METHOD - Manageable hybrid plant using photovoltaic and solar thermal technology and associated operating method, wherein said hybrid plant comprises three levels of generation:
| 11-14-2013 |
| 20130298965 | SOLAR MODULE AND FABRICATING METHOD THEREOF - A solar module is disclosed, which includes a back plate, a reflecting structure, one or more solar cell units, a bottom sealant, a top sealant, and a transparent plate. The reflecting structure is disposed on the back plate. The reflecting structure has inclines and a reflector layer. The solar cell units are disposed on the back plate. The solar cell units are spatially separated from and adjacent to the reflecting structure. The inclines are tilted towards nearby solar cell units. The reflector layer is disposed on the incline for directing the light toward the solar cell unit through total internal reflection. The bottom sealant is disposed between the back plate and the solar cell units. The top sealant is disposed on the solar cell units, and the transparent plate is disposed on the top sealant. A method for fabricating the solar module is also disclosed. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130298966 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module is provided with a plurality of solar cells each having a rectangular shape with chamfered corners, a protection member arranged in a light receiving surface side of the solar cells, and a reflection member having a rectangular shape in a plan view. The reflection member is arranged in an area surrounded by the solar cells. The reflection member includes a reflection surface. The reflection surface includes a plurality of areas. The areas are provided so that reflection directions of light perpendicular to the light receiving surfaces are different from each other in adjacent ones of the areas, the adjacent ones being adjacent to each other in a row direction or a column direction of the solar cells. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130306130 | SOLAR MODULE APPARATUS WITH EDGE REFLECTION ENHANCEMENT AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME - A monolithic integrated solar module with edge reflection enhancement includes a plurality of thin-film photovoltaic cells formed overlying a surface region of a glass substrate except in vicinities of peripheral edge regions. The solar module further includes a mask tape applied on a conductor bar disposed within the peripheral edge regions and coupled with the plurality of thin-film photovoltaic cells and an edge seal material disposed within the peripheral edge regions in a vicinity of the mask tape and an end region of the glass substrate. Additionally, the solar module includes a top glass panel disposed overlying the plurality of thin-film photovoltaic cells, the mask tape, and the edge seal material. Moreover, the solar module includes a reflector structure comprising one or more angled surfaces being configured to facilitate scattering of incoming sunlight from the vicinities of the peripheral edge regions partially to the plurality of thin-film photovoltaic cells. | 11-21-2013 |
| 20130306131 | Receiver For A Solar Power Generation Plant With Improved Service Access To The Receiver Modules - A receiver for a solar power generation plant with a plurality of heliostats is provided. The solar receiver is mounted above the heliostats on a tower and faces downwardly towards the heliostats. The solar receiver includes a plurality of receiver modules mounted on a frame which allows individual columns of receiver modules to pivot inwardly and into the tower for service. | 11-21-2013 |
| 20130306132 | SOLAR PHOTOELECTRICAL MODULE AND FABRICATION THEREOF - A solar photoelectrical module is disclosed, including a back sheet, a plurality of solar cells disposed over the back sheet and adjacent to at least one side of the back sheet, a first package material layer disposed on the back sheet, a second package material layer disposed on the first package material layer, wherein an interface between the first package material layer and the second package material layer comprises a first texture structure. | 11-21-2013 |
| 20130306133 | Solar Panel with Variable Heat Dissipation - The techniques described herein relate to a solar collector with variable heat release and to a method for operating such solar collectors. The solar collector comprises a housing and an absorber arranged in the housing for purposes of releasing heat to a heat-transfer medium that flows at least partially through the housing, whereby the housing has at least one transparent cover to allow incident sunlight to pass through onto the absorber and to modify the heat release to the environment, whereby the cover is arranged in the housing in such a way that at least the mean distance between the cover and the absorber can be varied in order to adjust the heat release. Increasing the mean distance leads to a decrease of the heat release to the environment, while reducing the mean distance leads to an increase of the heat release to the environment. | 11-21-2013 |
| 20130306134 | SOLAR CELL MODULE AND MANUFACTURING METHOD OF THE SAME - A solar cell module includes an antireflective film ( | 11-21-2013 |
| 20130306135 | Inflatable, pressure-controlled, portable line-concentrating heliostat - Inflatable, flexible, collapsible, linear solar concentrator and heliostat designs, made primarily of flexible and elastic sheets enclosing and separating air-tight chambers which are elongated along and parallel to a main axis, with the chambers pressurized to different pressures form a structure and control the focus and rotation of a mirror. | 11-21-2013 |
| 20130306136 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVING THE EFFICIENCY OF RENEWABLE ENERGY PANELS - A method and system for improving the efficiency of renewable energy panels. The invention is comprised of a means for evaporatively misting renewable energy panels and for allowing the renewable energy panels to track the sun. Depending on the environment and installation, the systems can be used individually or together. The invention improves the efficiency of the renewable energy panels by lowering their operating temperature and allowing the panels to optimize energy collection. | 11-21-2013 |
| 20130306137 | PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL MODULE - The present invention relates to a photovoltaic cell module. The present invention can provide a photovoltaic cell module with excellent durability capable of preventing separation of layers constituting the module and the decolorization and discoloration of an encapsulant, caused by long-term use or moisture permeation. In addition, the present invention can provide a photovoltaic cell module with excellent power generation efficiency. | 11-21-2013 |
| 20130306138 | WINDOW WITH AT LEAST ONE PRISM UNIT COMPRISING TWO PRISMS AND A PHOTO VOLTAIC CELL - A window is provided comprising a front pane and one or more prism units each comprising: a primary prism disposed adjacent the front pane and having a primary entrance face and a primary exit face. The primary entrance face is configured to receive a first and a second portion of light that passes through the front pane. The window further comprises a secondary prism disposed adjacent the primary prism and having a secondary entrance face and a secondary exit face. The secondary entrance face is configured to receive from the primary exit face at least the second portion of light. At least one of the entrance and exit faces comprises a light diverging surface which causes divergence of light passing therethrough, and at least one of the entrance and exit faces different from the light diverging face, comprises a light converging surface configured to reduce the divergence. | 11-21-2013 |
| 20130312811 | NON-LATITUDE AND VERTICALLY MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY CONCENTRATORS - A solar-energy concentrator optimized for operating in a substantially vertical orientation and method for collecting sunlight with such concentrator. The concentrator includes a photovoltaic (PV) module having a PV cell and layers containing diffraction gratings that may be spatially stacked or multiplexed. Diffraction gratings define corresponding diffraction patterns optimized for solar energy harvesting depending on which direction the concentrator is facing. Additionally, a method of designing a hologram for concentrating solar energy onto an adjacent photovoltaic chip is provided. The method includes selecting a photovoltaic chip material, selecting a photovoltaic cell geometry, selecting a first construction angle, selecting an installation latitude, selecting an installation tilt angle, and modeling hologram performance as a function of a second construction angle and a design wavelength. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130312812 | SPACE AND ENERGY EFFICIENT PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAY - In an embodiment, a solar energy system includes multiple photovoltaic modules, each oriented substantially at a same angle relative to horizontal. The angle is independent of a latitude of an installation site of the solar energy system and is greater than or equal to 15 degrees. The solar energy system defines a continuous area within a perimeter of the solar energy system. The solar energy system is configured to capture at the photovoltaic modules substantially all light incoming towards the continuous area over an entire season. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130319501 | SOLAR RECEIVER AND ASSOCIATED ENERGY CONVERSION APPARATUS - The disclosed invention relates to solar-thermal receiver tubes for heating high-temperature fluids such as molten salts and oils, such as those used in conjunction with trough reflectors or concentric concentrators. The disclosed invention utilizes fused silica receiver tube assemblies that provide optical absorption by way of optically-absorbing media that is imbedded within the thermal transfer fluid, preferably comprising inorganic “dyes” that comprise pulverized thin film coatings or dissolved materials that are specifically designed for maximizing optical absorption. Alternatively, the chemistry of the transfer fluid can be modified to increase optical absorption, or the optically absorbing media may comprise fine powders with density preferably similar to the thermal transfer fluid, such as fine graphite powder; or, in another preferred embodiment, absorbing means within the heat transfer fluid comprise a solid absorbing element disposed along the central axis of the receiver tube's interior. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130319502 | Bifacial Stack Structures for Thin-Film Photovoltaic Cells - In one embodiment, a photovoltaic cell comprises a transparent substrate having an exposed bottom surface for receiving light; a transparent-conducting-oxide layer positioned over the transparent substrate; a chalcogenide photovoltaic-absorber layer positioned over transparent-conducting oxide layer; and another transparent-conducting-oxide layer positioned over the photovoltaic-absorber layer, where the photovoltaic cell is operable to transmit incident light to both sides of the photovoltaic-absorber layer and to absorb incident light at both the top side and the bottom side of the photovoltaic-absorber layer. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130319503 | SOLAR RECEIVER - A concentrated photovoltaic receiver is exposed to concentrated sunlight so that the concentrated photovoltaic receiver generates electricity. The concentrated photovoltaic receiver is mounted on a solar receiver. The fluid is passed through a narrowed region within the solar receiver. The narrowed region is located adjacent to the concentrated photovoltaic receiver so that thermal energy is transferred from the concentrated sunlight to the fluid as the fluid passes through the narrowed region. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130319504 | METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATING WINDOW - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus including a light collector having a plurality of micro-lens and a plurality of multi-cone light redirecting structure that is optically coupled to one or more photovoltaic cells. In one aspect, the plurality of micro-lens is provided in an organic glass panel that is attached to an inorganic glass substrate. The inorganic glass substrate includes a material that is substantially opaque to radiation in the ultraviolet spectral range. During use, the light collector is disposed such that the inorganic glass substrate is exposed to the exterior to prevent a portion of the ultraviolet radiation incident on the light collector from being transmitted to the organic glass panel. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130319505 | PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATING WINDOW - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus including a light collector having a plurality of micro-lens and a plurality of multi-cone light redirecting structure that is optically coupled to one or more photovoltaic cells. In one aspect, the light collector includes a micro-lens array having a plurality of micro-lens that focus incident light onto a light guide including a plurality of multi-cone light redirecting structure. Each of the plurality of multi-cone light redirecting structure is configured to divert the focused light towards one or more photovoltaic cells disposed along the edge of the light guide. Each multi-cone light redirecting structure includes a central cone shaped structure surrounded by several secondary cone-shaped structures. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130319506 | SOLAR CONCENTRATOR ASSEMBLY - The present invention provides a solar concentrator assembly comprising a non-imaging dish concentrator and a photovoltaic receiver for the application of concentrator photovoltaic system that provides uniform solar flux, matches the square or rectangular solar images to the square or rectangular dimension of the photovoltaic receiver and produces high solar concentration ratio. The present invention also provides a solar concentrator assembly that is cost effective and has simpler mechanical structure. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130319507 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE ASSEMBLY - A concentrated photovoltaic receiver and backplane assembly is described herein. A thermally conductive heat spreader is configured between the receiver and the backplane for dissipating at least a portion of the thermal energy in a direction including a horizontal component towards a portion of the heat spreader which is not directly in contact with a receiver portion. In some embodiments, the heat spreader is electrically conductive and is adapted for conducting current from the receiver to the backplane. In some embodiments, a surface area of a receiver substrate is less than 5 times larger than a surface area of a solar cell that is mounted onto the receiver substrate. In some embodiments, the receiver substrate comprises vias for conducting current from a top face to a bottom face of the receiver. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130319508 | SELF-BALLASTED APPARATUS FOR SOLAR TRACKING - A frame for mounting a plurality of solar tracking units is provided. The frame comprises a plurality of leg assemblies interconnected by trusses to provide a stable structure that is ballasted by the frame's own weight, rather than relying on external ballast such as concrete blocks. Each leg assembly is provided with a shaft with a mounting end for mounting a solar tracking unit. Each solar tracking unit includes an armature assembly and at least one motor for controlling the orientation and position of a solar panel mounted thereon. Solar tracking assemblies, each comprising the frame and plurality of solar tracking units, can be assembled in an array using connectors spacing the assemblies, thus providing enhanced stability. Each of the assemblies can be provided with a local control unit for controlling each individual solar tracking unit, and a global control unit may be used to control the local control units. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130333745 | SOLAR TRACKING FOR TERRESTRIAL SOLAR ARRAYS WITH VARIABLE START AND STOP POSITIONS - An automated method causes a terrestrial solar cell array to track the sun. The solar cell system includes motors that adjust a position of the array along different respective axes with respect to the sun, wherein a first motor adjusts the inclination angle of the array relative to the surface of the earth and a second motor rotates the array about an axis substantially perpendicular to that surface. The method includes (a) using a software algorithm to predict a position of the sun at a future time; (b) using a computer model to determine respective positions for the motors corresponding to the solar cell array being substantially aligned with the sun at the future time; and (c) activating and operating the motors at respective particular speeds so that at the future time the solar cell array is substantially aligned with the sun. The future time may correspond to any time during operation. An initial future time may correspond to a start up time after sunrise at which point the solar cell is to begin tracking the sun. | 12-19-2013 |
| 20130333746 | ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR COOLING A SUPPORT - The invention relates to an arrangement and a method for cooling a support ( | 12-19-2013 |
| 20130340807 | FOLDABLE SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM, ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR ASSEMBLY, SHIPPING AND INSTALLATION OF THE SAME - A solar tracking assembly includes a spine and a plurality of paired brackets connected to the spine. The brackets are positioned on opposite sides of the spine and at least one of the paired brackets includes wheels to allow rolling movement of the spine. An array arm is attached to each bracket and is moveable from a shipping position to a deployed position, and at least one solar array panel is secured to each array arm. A method of installing a solar panel assembly includes assembling in a secondary automated process at least one solar panel assembly in an offsite location, loading the solar panel assembly in the shipping position on a truck, transporting the truck to a deployment site, and off-loading the solar panel assembly from said truck. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20140007918 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - A photovoltaic device provided in the present disclosure includes a superstrate, a lower substrate, a plurality of photovoltaic cells and a package structure. The superstrate is light-transmissive, and arranged in parallel with the substrate. The photovoltaic cells are disposed side-by-side at intervals with each other between the superstrate and the substrate, and a gap zone is defined by two facing lateral surfaces of every two of the neighboring photovoltaic cells. The package structure is sandwiched between the superstrate and the substrate, and encapsulates the photovoltaic cells between the superstrate and the substrate in which a reflection portion is provided in the package structure, and located in the gap zone for reflecting lights from the superstrate back to the photovoltaic cells. | 01-09-2014 |
| 20140007919 | HYBRID SOLAR PANEL - The invention relates to a hybrid solar panel comprising: photovoltaic elements ( | 01-09-2014 |
| 20140007920 | SPACE MACHINE - A technique which can reduce a cost of a space machine installed with a solar cell. The space machine is composed of a light collecting unit and the solar cell. The light collecting unit is arranged on a surface of the body of the space machine to collect incident sun light inside the body. The solar cell is installed inside the body to receive the sun light collected by the light collecting unit. | 01-09-2014 |
| 20140014157 | SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM USING CROSS-DIVIDER SHADE BOARD AND SENSOR SOLAR PANELS - A solar tracking assembly that incorporates a cross-divider shade board, four sensor solar panels, and a control system to automatically track sunlight. The design of this solar tracking system is very simple and economical, and it can achieve high efficiency in the power generation. The design is simple and economical because the tracking mechanism is by utilizing the same solar panels for sensing sunlight as well as for power generation. Together with a cross-divider shade board, signal wires, and a control system, the four sensor solar panels and additional standard solar panels can be assembled to facilitate automatic sun tracking. No additional electronic devices for sensing are needed other than using the standard solar panels. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140014158 | Support Assembly for Supporting Photovoltaic Modules - 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. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140014159 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR - A solar collector is provided with a frame that is coupled to a based and configured to rotate about a vertical axis. A main panel assembly is attached to the frame and pivotal about a horizontal axis relative to the frame. The main panel assembly receives sunlight and converts the sunlight into electrical energy. The main panel assembly includes a central panel, and a pair of pivotal inner side panels, where each inner side panel is attached to the central panel. A pair of outer side panels attached to the inner side panels is also provided. Each outer side panel includes photo-voltaic (PV) panels, and a panel surround frame for retaining the PV panels. Each panel surround frame has a horizontal channel member, a pair of upright channel members, and a channel bracket, defining a perimeter. A peripheral edge of each PV panel is captured within the channel members. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140014160 | SOLAR MODULE - A solar module having improved photoelectric conversion efficiency is provided. The solar module ( | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140020732 | SOLAR CELL ARRAYS FOR CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - The present invention relates to a solar cell array configuration comprising a plurality of solar cells provided on at least one substrate, a plurality of contact pads, one contact pad for each of the plurality of solar cells, provided on the at least one substrate, electrical wiring connecting each of the plurality of solar cells with a corresponding one of the plurality of contact pads and a diode electrically connected with at least two of the plurality of solar cells. | 01-23-2014 |
| 20140020733 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE FOR A CLOSELY PACKED ARRAY - A photovoltaic device including a substantially planar photon source facing side, a plurality of edges extending around the perimeter defined by the photon source facing side, and an edge insulator arranged to prevent at least one edge of the plurality of edges from coming into electrical contact with a neighbouring electrically conductive element when the photovoltaic device is arranged as part of an array of photovoltaic devices. | 01-23-2014 |
| 20140026939 | MULTI-ELEMENT PACKAGING OF CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS - A photovoltaic structure includes, from bottom to top, a conductive substrate, at least one electrical isolation layer, and a patterned conductive material layer. The patterned conductive material layer includes at least one solar concentrator receiver plate configured to mount a photovoltaic concentrator cells and at least one metallic wiring structure. The at least one electrical isolation layer can include a stack of an electrically insulating metal-containing compound layer and an organic or inorganic dielectric material that provides thermal conduction and electrical isolation. The at least one solar concentrator receiver plate can be thicker than the at least one metallic wiring structure so as to provide enhanced thermal spreading and conduction through the at least one electrical isolation layer and into the conductive substrate. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140026940 | ENERGY GENERATION SYSTEM - A system is disclosed that can include an array of solar panels. The array can be arranged into rows of linearly organized modules. The modules can be tilted by a linear actuator attached to a linkage. The tilting can be controlled to maintain a perpendicular orientation between the face of the solar panels (modules) and the direction to the sun. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140026941 | SOLAR POWER GENERATING APPARATUS - A solar power generating apparatus includes a support plate, a solar cell module having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the first side of the solar cell module being pivotally coupled to the support plate, a guide unit on a rear surface of the solar cell module, and a support unit having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the first side of the support unit being pivotally coupled to the support plate, and the second side of the support unit being coupled to the guide unit, the second side of the support unit being configured to linearly move along the guide unit to adjust inclination of the solar cell module. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140026942 | SOLAR PANEL WITH INTERNAL TRACKING - A self-tracking solar panel is presented that includes internal tracking. A self-tracking solar panel can include an array of active materials fixed to an underside of a top cover or to a bottom panel of the solar panel and an array of tracking solar collectors that concentrate solar energy onto the array of active materials, the array of tracking solar collectors moving in relation to the array of active materials. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140026943 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SOLAR POWER GENERATION - A photovoltaic device comprising an array of elongate reflector elements mounted substantially parallel to one another and transversely spaced in series, at least one of the reflector elements having an elongate concave reflective surface to reflect incident solar radiation towards a forward adjacent reflector element in the array. The at least one reflector element includes a photovoltaic receptor mounted on the reflector element by a mounting arrangement to receive reflected solar radiation from a rearward adjacent reflector element. The reflector element also includes a heat sink in heat transfer relationship with the photovoltaic receptor, thermally isolating the photovoltaic receptor, at least partially, from the reflector element. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140034110 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM ABLE TO FLOAT ON WATER AND TRACK SUN - A photovoltaic system able to float on water and track sun includes a floating mechanism; an adjusting mechanism, combining with the floating mechanism; and a solar power mechanism, combining with the adjusting mechanism and located above the floating mechanism. This photovoltaic system can be located on the water surface, and has its floating mechanism to be under water by using the adjusting mechanism and the surrounding water source. The adjusting mechanism can be further used to adjust the solar power mechanism to a specific tilt angle according to the water level of the surrounding water and the sun-tracking angles that varies as the locations of the sun. Therefore, a novel photovoltaic system with simplified configuration, accurate sun tracking and enhanced power generation efficiency can be achieved. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140034111 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE AND LAMINATE - A photovoltaic module has a first side directed toward the sun during normal operation and a second, lower side. The photovoltaic module comprises a perimeter frame and a photovoltaic laminate at least partially enclosed by and supported by the perimeter frame. The photovoltaic laminate comprises a transparent cover layer positioned toward the first side of the photovoltaic module, an upper encapsulant layer beneath and adhering to the cover layer, a plurality of photovoltaic solar cells beneath the upper encapsulant layer, the photovoltaic solar cells electrically interconnected, a lower encapsulant layer beneath the plurality of photovoltaic solar cells, the upper and lower encapsulant layers enclosing the plurality of photovoltaic solar cells, and a homogenous rear environmental protection layer, the rear environmental protection layer adhering to the lower encapsulant layer, the rear environmental protection layer exposed to the ambient environment on the second side of the photovoltaic module. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140034112 | OPTICAL CONCENTRATORS AND SPLITTERS - Apparatus and methods are provided for use with solar energy. An optical concentrator and splitter (OCS) includes a non-planar bottom surface having symmetrical halves, each half defined by an off-axis section of a parabola. The bottom surface bears a dielectric surface treatment. The OCS is configured to concentrate a first spectral portion of photonic energy through respective side surfaces, and to concentrate a second spectral portion through the bottom surface. Targets such as photovoltaic cells or others receive the concentrated first and second spectral portions, respectively. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140041708 | LOW-COST THIN-FILM CONCENTRATOR SOLAR CELLS - A low cost concentrating photovoltaic system includes a condenser system having refractive or reflective optics and a photovoltaic module having one or more thin film solar cells. The thin film solar cells may be a-Si, CdTe, Cu(InGa)Se | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140041709 | GEO-COOLED PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER CONVERTER - The invention is a liquid cooled photovoltaic power converter with a liquid-to-earth heat exchanger. With the invention, removal of heat from primary power converter heat sources is accomplished without cooling fans or ambient air exchange in order to eliminate associated particulate contamination and maintenance issues. | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140041710 | SOLAR PANEL THAT IS COOLED WITHOUT USING POWER - The present invention relates to a solar panel that is cooled without using power, and more particularly, to a solar panel which is cooled without using power and which is naturally cooled by means of ascending air heated in a passage provided in a cooling plate so as to maintain the temperature of the solar panel suitable for the efficient generation of power without requiring a separate power source. For this purpose, the solar panel of the present invention includes: a cell panel including solar cells for converting solar energy into electric energy; and a cooling plate directly or indirectly contacting the back surface of the cell panel so as to transfer heat, the cooling plate having a cooling-air passage which is formed so as to extend vertically within the cooling plate, and the upper and lower ends of which are in contact with the outside air. | 02-13-2014 |
| 20140048117 | SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS USING EXTERNAL REFLECTORS - A concentrating photovoltaic system includes a condenser system and photovoltaic modules. The condenser system includes a quasi-Fresnel concave lens coated with an antireflection film and a reflector coated with a reflective film. The reflector is located between the quasi-Fresnel concave lens and the PV modules. A high refractive index optical resin is filled between the quasi-Fresnel concave lens and the photovoltaic modules. The quasi-Fresnel concave lens has a flat or hemispherical structure; the reflector can be placed horizontally, or at an angle to form a light condensing funnel. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140048118 | SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS USING EXTERNAL REFLECTORS - A solar energy concentrating system with high light collection efficiency includes a light concentrating unit, a light homogenizing unit and photovoltaic modules. The light concentrating unit includes a parabolic reflector and an ellipsoidal reflector which are coaxial and confocal. The light homogenizing unit includes an infrared filter and a hollow spherical reflector with a hole in its surface. When the system is under illumination, light is concentrated by the light concentrating unit through the hole in the spherical reflector surface and reflected by the inner surface of the spherical reflector onto the photovoltaic modules. The infrared filter covers the hole in the spherical reflector surface and reduces the heat in the photovoltaic modules under concentrated light. The combination of the parabolic reflector and the ellipsoidal reflector obtain highly concentrated light, and the hollow spherical reflector ensures light uniformity on the photovoltaic modules and light utilization efficiency. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140048119 | DIODE AND HEAT SPREADER FOR SOLAR MODULE - Arrangements of diodes and heat spreaders for solar modules are described. For example, a solar module may include a backsheet with a low profile, surface-mount diode disposed above the backsheet. A pair of ribbon interconnects is coupled to the low profile, surface-mount diode and may penetrate the backsheet. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140048120 | SOLAR GENERATOR UNIT - A solar generator unit for converting sunlight, having a mirror array, a light converter, support designed to hold the mirror array, and a tracking unit for causing the mirror array to track the sun position. The light converter is arranged above the mirror array and the concentrated light strikes a receiver surface of the light converter. The support has an essentially horizontal first shaft with a first radial bearing point and a second radial bearing point arranged on mutually opposite sides of the mirror array. A third radial bearing point accommodates a second shaft that is essentially perpendicular to the first shaft is flange-mounted between the first bearing point and the second bearing point so that the axis of rotation of the second shaft is pivoted along with a rotation of the first shaft, and the mirror array is connected in a non-positive way to the second shaft. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140053890 | PHOTOVOLTAIC APPARATUS - A photovoltaic apparatus includes N solar cell modules. The solar cell module includes a first sub-loop, a second sub-loop, and at least one junction box. Each of the first sub-loop and second sub-loop has a first end and a second end. The junction box is electrically connected to the first ends and the second ends and connected to another junction box in another adjacent solar cell module. N is a natural number. | 02-27-2014 |
| 20140060618 | Solar Power Camouflage - A solar power camouflage system and apparatus are disclosed. The system includes a number of solar panels coupled to a net. The panels colored to produce a camouflage effect. A maximum power point tracking device coupled to the solar panels to manage to maintain the optimal voltage and current drawn through the panels. An energy storage device is coupled to the maximum power point tracking device. A power interface is coupled to said energy storage device to deliver power to other electrical devices. | 03-06-2014 |
| 20140060619 | OPTICAL PROBE, APPARATUS AND SYSTEM - An optical system ( | 03-06-2014 |
| 20140060620 | SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL COOLING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A solar photovoltaic panel system which has a thermal sink and a panel mounting structure is provided. The panel mounting structure contains a water flow section. The water flow section includes an inflow section and an outflow section. A solar photovoltaic panel is mounted between the inflow section and the outflow section. A water supply system is connected to the panel mounting structure to provide water on a top surface of the solar photovoltaic panel. The water provided from the thermal sink is returned to the thermal sink after flowing on the top surface of the solar photovoltaic panel. | 03-06-2014 |
| 20140069481 | SOLAR TRACKER FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION - A solar tracker is provided to fix an altitude angle until the altitude of the sun secedes from a predetermined range after matching the altitude through once driving of one shaft that tracks the altitude angle and to drive only the other shaft that tracks an east-west azimuth angle in daily repetition in a state where the altitude angle of the sun, which is repeatedly changed according to seasons of the year in the range of the winter solstice having the lowest altitude angle and the summer solstice having the highest altitude angle, has an extremely small diurnal change, whereas the azimuth angle of the sun is repeatedly changed in one direction, that is, from sunup to sundown, in a day. Accordingly, consumption of firm power of a driving unit for tracking the sun can be minimized, and the operating and management costs of the device can be reduced. | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140069482 | Solar Roofing Tiles and Manufacturing Method Thereof - The present invention relates a solar roofing tile and manufacturing method thereof. A solar roofing tile comprises a substrate and a solar cell mounted on the substrate. The upper surface of substrate is provided with a zebra vein. The manufacturing method is to make substrate first and then coat dark glaze material to the surface of substrate to form dark vein. The part of substrate without coating glaze material forms a white vein. The dark vein and the white vein constitute zebra veins. Finally bond solar module to the substrate. The object of the present invention is to provide a solar roofing tile to promote air circulation on substrate surface and its manufacturing method to solve the problem of poor heat dissipation, poor efficiency in hot days and hence poor thermal insulation in existing photovoltaic tile. | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140069483 | SINGLE AND MULTI-AXIAL ARTICULATED BALLASTED PHOTOVOLTAIC MOUNT - A solar panel mount system includes a ballasted block support resting on a ground surface, a post pivoted to the block support at a lower pivot, and a solar panel frame pivoted to the post at an upper pivot with a center of gravity over the ballasted block support and facing a desired sunlight-receiving direction. The upper pivot is selected to be at a desired adjusted height. The frame includes a yoke supported at the upper pivot and support beams supporting a solar panel. A method of installation includes placing the ballasted block support on the ground, and attaching the remaining components at desired angles to locate a center of gravity of the solar panel frame over the ballasted block support, and fixing an angle of the solar panel frame at a desired sun-facing position. A related method includes interconnecting solar panel frames on posts in a generally straight row. | 03-13-2014 |
| 20140076379 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR - Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide heat, electricity, or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein. | 03-20-2014 |
| 20140076380 | Concentrating Solar Energy Collector - Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide heat, electricity, or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein. | 03-20-2014 |
| 20140076381 | Apparatus of Large-Scaled Solar Cell Module - An apparatus of solar cell module is provided. The apparatus is large-scaled. A supporting frame is combined with solar cell modules. Thus, the present invention can be easily installed; material cost is saved; and the cost spent on adjusting levelness of the solar cell modules can be reduced. | 03-20-2014 |
| 20140083479 | PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL MODULE - In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided a photovoltaic cell module including a substrate; a plurality of photovoltaic cells disposed via an individual gap on the substrate; and a transparent member disposed to cover the photovoltaic cells, and configured so that light incident on the transparent member passes through the transparent member and arrives at the photovoltaic cells, wherein the transparent member has a slit-shaped recess space at a position corresponding to the individual gap between the photovoltaic cells; and the photovoltaic cell module includes a photoelectric conversion rate improvement structure on a surface side of the transparent member, on which light is incident. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140083480 | HURRICANE PROOF SOLAR TRACKER - A hurricane-proof solar tracker and related method of operation includes a solar panel array assembly having one end coupled to a ballast and a tilting assembly supporting a solar panel assembly. The tilting assembly tilts the solar panel array assembly to track with the sun in a first position, and retracts the solar panel array to a substantially flat second position. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140083481 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A photovoltaic module including a backsheet and a plurality of photovoltaic cells overlying the backsheet is disclosed. The backsheet has open areas not covered by the photovoltaic cells. The backsheet may be a reflective backsheet that includes a multilayer optical film, or the photovoltaic module may include a reflective multilayer optical film separate from the backsheet. The multilayer optical film has an optical stack with a plurality of alternating first and second optical layers having different indices of refraction and a left band edge in a range from 600 nanometers to 900 nanometers. The multilayer optical film reflects at least a portion of light in a range of wavelengths that corresponds with the absorption bandwidth of the photovoltaic cell. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140083482 | ARCHITECTURAL ARTICLE WITH PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL AND VISIBLE LIGHT-TRANSMITTING REFLECTOR - An architectural article that includes a photovoltaic cell and a visible light-transmitting reflector positioned to reflect light onto the photovoltaic cell is disclosed. The visible light-transmitting reflector includes a multilayer optical film having an optical stack with a plurality of alternating first and second optical layers having different indices of refraction. The multilayer optical film reflects at least a portion of light in a range of wavelengths that corresponds with the absorption bandwidth of the photovoltaic cell. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140090686 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAICS - Provided in one embodiment is an article, comprising: a substrate comprising silicon; and a plurality of solar cells disposed over the substrate, wherein at least one of the plurality of the solar cells comprises one of: (i) a first semiconductor layer disposed over the substrate, the first layer comprising at least one semiconductor material; and (ii) a first Ge-containing layer disposed over the substrate, the first layer comprising a Ge-containing material, and a second layer disposed over the first layer, the second layer comprising at least one semiconductor material. At least some of the solar cells may comprise semiconductor materials of different bandgap values. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140090687 | MULTIFUNCTIONAL STATIC OR SEMI-STATIC PHOTOVOLTAIC SKYLIGHT AND/OR METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - Improved building-integrated photovoltaic systems according to certain example embodiments may include concentrated photovoltaic skylights or other windows having a cylindrical lens array. The skylight may include an insulated glass unit, which may improve the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The photovoltaic skylight and lens arrays may be used in combination with strip solar cells. Arrangements that involve lateral displacement tracking systems, or static systems (e.g., that are fixed at one, two, or more predefined positions) are contemplated herein. Such techniques may advantageously help to reduce cost per watt related, in part, to the potentially reduced amount of semiconductor material to be used for such example embodiments. A photovoltaic skylight may permit diffuse daylight to pass through into an interior of a building so as to provide lighting inside the building, while the strip solar cells absorb the direct sunlight and convert it to electricity, providing for SHGC tuning. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140090688 | Nitride-Based Multi-Junction Solar Cell Modules and Methods for Making the Same - A backside illuminated multi-junction solar cell module includes a substrate, multiple multi-junction solar cells, and a cell interconnection that provides a series connection, between at least two of the multi-junction solar cells. The substrate may include a material that is substantially transparent to solar radiation. Each multi-junction solar cell includes a first active cell, grown over the substrate, for absorbing a first portion of the solar radiation for conversion into electrical energy and a second active cell, grown over the first active cell, for absorbing a second portion of the solar radiation for conversion into electrical energy. At least one of the first and second active cells includes a nitride. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140090689 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE COMPRISING CONDUCTORS IN THE FORM OF STRIPS - A photovoltaic module including a transparent upper plate and a lower plate, electrically insulating and sealed to each other to define a tight package; photovoltaic cells pressed between the upper and lower plates; at least two electric contacts arranged on at least a surface of each cell, at least one electric contact being in the form of a strip; and elements electrically connecting the contacts of each cell with the contacts of at least one adjacent cell. At least one strip of each cell is housed in a groove made in the plate in front or it, the groove is defined by: a depth between one quarter and three quarters of the thickness of the strip in a uncompressed state; a width greater than or equal to the width of the strip at 85° C.; and a length greater than or equal to the length of the strip at 85° C. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140090690 | SOLAR CONCENTRATOR AND PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION STRUCTURE - A solar concentrator and photoelectric conversion structure is described. The solar concentrator and photoelectric conversion structure includes a glass concentrator and at least one photoelectric conversion layer. The glass concentrator forms a light incident surface and a plane. The plane includes a plurality of concentrating elements. Each concentrating element includes a hollow taper and a hollow pillar. The hollow taper includes a first opening. The hollow pillar includes a second opening and a third opening on opposite sides, in which the second opening is correspondingly connected to the first opening. The photoelectric conversion layer deposited onto inner side surfaces of the hollow tapers and the hollow pillars of the concentrating elements. The photoelectric conversion layer includes at least one p-type material and at least one n-type material. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140090691 | THERMAL TRACKING FOR SOLAR SYSTEMS - A power generating system is disclosed. The power generating system comprises a solar cell, a support structure coupled to the solar cell and adapted to adjust the position of the solar cell, a first thermal sensor coupled to the solar cell and adapted to detect a first temperature at a first location on the solar cell, a second thermal sensor coupled to the solar cell and adapted to detect a second temperature at a second location on the solar cell, the second location spaced apart from the first location, and a control system. The control system is adapted to receive a first signal from the first thermal sensor and a second signal from the second thermal sensor, compare information conveyed in the first and second signals, and adjust the position of the solar cell by operating the support structure in response to information conveyed in the first and second signals. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140090692 | CONCENTRATED SOLAR CELL AND MANUFACTURING METHOD FOR THE SAME - A concentrated solar cell has a sealing portion ( | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140096812 | SOLAR SPECTRUM PANEL - An approach and device for generating electrical power from solar panels where electromagnetic radiation is filtered and concentrated at solar cells mounted on lightweight material that allows the dissipation of heat. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140096813 | PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION ELEMENT AND PHOTOELECTRIC CONVERSION ELEMENT MODULE - There are provided a photoelectric conversion element and a photoelectric conversion element module including the photoelectric conversion element, the photoelectric conversion element including a transparent substrate, a transparent conductive layer arranged on the transparent substrate, a photoelectric conversion layer arranged on the transparent conductive layer, a porous insulating layer arranged in contact with the photoelectric conversion layer, a reflective layer arranged in contact with the porous insulating layer, and a catalyst layer and a counter conductive layer that are arranged on the reflective layer, in which the photoelectric conversion layer contains a porous semiconductor, a carrier-transport material, and a photosensitizer, and in which the area of the orthogonal projection of the porous insulating layer onto the transparent substrate and the area of the orthogonal projection of the reflective layer onto the transparent substrate are each larger than the area of the orthogonal projection of the photoelectric conversion layer onto the transparent substrate. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140102509 | SOLAR CELL WITH REDUCED ABSORBER THICKNESS AND REDUCED BACK SURFACE RECOMBINATION - Manufacture for an improved stacked-layered thin film solar cell. Solar cell has reduced absorber thickness and an improved back contact for Copper Indium Gallium Selenide solar cells. The back contact provides improved reflectance particularly for infrared wavelengths while still maintaining ohmic contact to the semiconductor absorber. This reflectance is achieved by producing a back contact having a highly reflecting metal separated from an absorbing layer with a dielectric layer. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140102510 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR - Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy is efficiently collected to provide heat, electricity, or a combination of heat and electricity include a solar energy collector having a receiver, a first reflector and a second reflector arranged end-to-end such that an edge of the first reflector overlaps an edge of the second receiver; and a support structure that accommodates movement of the receiver, rotation of the reflectors, or rotation of the receiver and the reflectors about an axis parallel to a long axis of the receiver. The support structure has reflector supports oriented transverse to the rotation axis and reflectors are securable to the reflector support. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140102511 | ASSEMBLY FOR COLLECTING LIGHT - Disclosed is a novel solar collecting assembly that in which more than one mirror and/or photovoltaic is linked mechanically so that many mirrors share a few actuators, rather than equipping each mirror with individual actuators. One example includes a set of structures, such as poles or pipes. Each of the support structures has a first end and a second end, and each of the support structures is associated with at least one solar collecting assembly. A first set of cables is arranged to move the solar collecting assemblies in a first direction, each of the first set of cables includes a set of first alignment fittings disposed thereon. The first end of each of the solar collecting assemblies is attached to one of the first alignment fittings in the first set of cables. A second set of cables arranged to move the solar collecting assemblies in a second direction. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140102512 | SELF BALLASTED CELESTIAL TRACKING APPARATUS - The invention is a wind resistant celestial tracking apparatus that uses gravitational forces acting on the moving elements of the structure to provide overturning resistance. A molded self curing compound, such as reinforced concrete, is used as the structural material that provides the mass, and thus the gravitational overturning resistance that reduces or eliminates the need for a massive ballasted or dug-in foundation. The combination of these features potentially lowers cost significantly over that of tracking apparatuses found in prior art. The invention is appropriate for use in any celestial tracking application with any number of axes of motion, but is particularly useful in two axis solar energy collection systems. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140102513 | Non-Parabolic Solar Concentration to an Area of Controlled Flux Density Conversion System - A solar conversion system with a solar collector that is shaped to focus reflected sunlight along an area with a substantially constant flux density. The area shape can be resemble a rectangular, square, circular, or other shape. Included with the system is a solar conversion module having a photovoltaic cell that is alignable with the area. The cell converts the focused reflected sunlight into electrical energy when aligned with the area. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140102514 | SOLAR CELL MODULE SUPPORT ASSEMBLY - Disclosed herein is a solar cell module support assembly including a solar cell module and a frame supporting the solar cell module, a drive motor and a power transmission unit transmitting power of the drive motor so as to support frame and change disposition angle and disposition direction of the frame, a motion conversion unit to convert rotating motion of the power transmission unit into rotating motion and vertical motion of the frame, first connection support units connecting upper and lower portions of the rear surface of the frame, and second connection support units connecting the first connection support units to the motion conversion unit. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140102515 | SOLAR MODULE - A solar module with improved output characteristics is provided. Between adjacent solar cells ( | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140109952 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module is discussed. The solar cell module is defined with an effective area and a dead area, and includes a solar cell, and a substrate disposed at one surface of the solar cell. The substrate includes a light refraction pattern formed to correspond to the dead area. | 04-24-2014 |
| 20140116495 | BIFACIAL SOLAR CELL MODULE WITH BACKSIDE REFLECTOR - A bifacial solar cell module includes solar cells that are protected by front side packaging components and backside packaging components. The front side packaging components include a transparent top cover on a front portion of the solar cell module. The backside packaging components have a transparent portion that allows light coming from a back portion of the solar cell module to reach the solar cells, and a reflective portion that reflects light coming from the front portion of the solar cell module. The transparent and reflective portions may be integrated with a backsheet, e.g., by printing colored pigments on the backsheet. The reflective portion may also be on a reflective component that is separate from the backsheet. In that case, the reflective component may be placed over a clear backsheet before or after packaging. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140116496 | MULTI-JUNCTION CPV PACKAGE AND METHOD - A multi junction CPV package device comprising: an anode carrier plate; a solar cell array adapted to be electrically connected with wire bonds to the anode carrier plate, the solar cell array comprising an active area; an SOE positionable on the solar cell array and the anode, the SOE forming a first aperture with a wall around at least a portion of the active area and a second aperture around at least a portion of the anode carrier plate, the wall of the first aperture comprising a UV-resistant material; and a cathode plate having an electrical insulation from the anode carrier plate and the cathode plate having a first surface having a thermal connection to the solar cell and a second surface opposed to the first surface, wherein the solar cell and the cathode plate have a thermal connection and the second surface is adapted to be surface-mounted to a PCB. | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140116497 | Building Integrated Solar Aperture Fixtures - Systems and apparatus which provide onsite electrical power which has been generated by solar energy are disclosed. In an aspect, an onsite solar power generation apparatus is configured as an interior window covering. The power generation apparatus comprises a frame, a plurality of movable cross members, a plurality of photovoltaic cells, a conversion component, and an AC power plug. In particular, systems and apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure may be configured for ease of installation by laymen and be self-contained (i.e., requiring installation of one assembly of equipment and connecting to a building's existing electrical grid via a standard AC power plug and building receptacle). | 05-01-2014 |
| 20140124013 | HIGH EFFICIENCY CONFIGURATION FOR SOLAR CELL STRING - A high efficiency configuration for a string of solar cells comprises series-connected solar cells arranged in an overlapping shingle pattern. Mechanically compliant electrical interconnects may electrically couple two or more such strings in series, for example. Front and back surface metallization patterns may provide further increases in efficiency. | 05-08-2014 |
| 20140124014 | HIGH EFFICIENCY CONFIGURATION FOR SOLAR CELL STRING - A high efficiency configuration for a string of solar cells comprises series-connected solar cells arranged in an overlapping shingle pattern. Front and back surface metallization patterns may provide further increases in efficiency. | 05-08-2014 |
| 20140124015 | Systems and Methods for Weight-Based Repositioning of Solar Energy Collection Devices - Systems and methods for positioning solar energy collection devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, an integrated unit combines the necessity of solar panel repositioning with water filtration. While also providing clean water for the end user, the integrated unit uses controlled weight displacement to rotate a solar panel to follow the sun from east to west—a process also known as horizontal (azimuth) solar tracking. | 05-08-2014 |
| 20140124016 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL, CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC, AND CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - A concentrator photovoltaic is formed by concentrator photovoltaic panels each having solar cells arranged on the back side of concentrating lenses. A plurality of portions of an image are imaged at the periphery of each of the solar cells in each of the panels. When each of the panels tracks the sun to be swung in the right-left direction and in the up-down direction, an image which can be identified through the concentrating lenses by a person who sees the image from a position in front of the concentrator photovoltaic is different according to an angle at which the panel is swung (direction rotation angle and elevation angle) due to the characteristic of the concentrating lenses. Therefore, the image of a letter or the like which appears with movement of the sun can be changed, and a message or the like according to time thereof can be displayed. | 05-08-2014 |
| 20140130842 | BUSSING FOR PV-MODULE WITH UNEQUAL-EFFICIENCY BI-FACIAL PV-CELLS - A PV module includes strings of serially electrically connected individual bifacial photovoltaic cells each of which is characterized by conversion efficiencies that are different for front and back sides of each cell. The module includes at least two of such strings which are electrically parallel to one another such that front sides of cells in one string and back sides of the cells in another string corresponding to the same side of the module. Each side of the module is thereby adapted to generate substantially the same amount of electrical power under otherwise equal circumstances. On a sunny day, the module generates as much electrical power before noon as after noon if the front side and the back side receive, aggregately, substantially the same amount of solar power incident thereon during the day. | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140130843 | HOLOGRAPHIC DIFFRACTION-THROUGH-APERTURE SPECTRUM SPLITTING SYSTEM AND METHOD - An apparatus for obtaining energy from a polychromatic energy source that emits radiation in a first and a second wavelength band comprises a reflector or an energy receiver having an aperture therein; and a holographic lens that diffracts and focuses the radiation within the first wavelength band from the energy source through said aperture towards a first energy receiver, and transmits the radiation within the second wavelength band from the energy source to the reflector or energy receiver. If a reflector is used, the reflector reflects the radiation transmitted by the holographic lens towards a second energy receiver. | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140130844 | SOLAR POWER GENERATOR - A solar power generator of an embodiment includes: a solar cell module having a solar cell, and a heat storage material filled unit configured to house a heat storage material disposed so as to thermally contact a back surface side of the solar cell, and a nucleating unit configured to release supercooling of the heat storage material; and a controller configured to control the nucleating unit. | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140130845 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - A concentrator photovoltaic device includes a concentrating lens that concentrates sunlight, a solar cell element that photoelectrically converts the sunlight concentrated by the concentrating lens, a mounting substrate on which the solar cell element is mounted, a concentrating lens array formed by the concentrating lenses respectively in a row direction (Dx) and a column direction (Dy), and a heat diffusion plate on which the mounting substrates are mounted to diffuse heat from the mounting substrates. The heat diffusion plate is disposed facing the concentrating lens disposed in the row direction (Dx). A size (SPx) of the heat diffusion plate in the row direction (Dx) is two or more times as large as a size (SLx) of each concentrating lens in the row direction (Dx), and a size (SPy) of the heat diffusion plate in the column direction (Dy) is smaller than a size (SLy) of each concentrating lens in the column direction (Dy) | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140137923 | Composite photovoltaic device with parabolic collector and different solar cells - Proposed is a composite photovoltaic device with parabolic collector and different solar cells, wherein the high photoelectric conversion efficiency is achieved along with significant material cost reduction. The device comprises two or three solar cells formed on opposite sides of a transparent substrate, and a parabolic collector attached to the back side of the substrate. First thin film solar cell formed on the front side receives and converts to electricity a short-wavelength portion of the incoming Sun radiation, and transmits the long-wavelength portion. A second solar cell receives and converts to electricity a concentrated long-wavelength portion of the Sun radiation, which is re-directed toward a focal point by the parabolic collector. In one embodiment a third solar cell is included for converting an IR portion of the radiation. Thus, each solar cell utilizes a favorable part of the Sun spectrum, which allows for an enhancement of photoelectric efficiency and significant material cost reduction. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140137924 | SOLAR ARRAY POWER OUTPUT MAXIMIZATION THROUGH CORRECTED SUN TRACKING METHODS - An array of solar collectors track the sun based on measured values of power output from the array and from a sun sensor on the array. The sun is tracked by periodically adjusting the altitude and azimuth of the array so the collectors remain pointed at the sun to maximize an amount of solar flux reflected from the collectors. The sun sensor, which detects alignment of the sun, recognizes when relative movement of the sun causes about a 10% reduction in power output of the array. The altitude and azimuth of the array are readjusted based on output from the sun sensor. While the array is being reoriented, power output from the array is monitored, and values for power output versus orientation of the array are recorded. Offset values between the power output, sun sensor output, and the ephemeral equations are calculated by comparing these values during operation. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140137925 | SELF-LEVELING AND SELF-ALIGNING SOLAR PLATFORM - A mobile solar platform has at least one solar panel, the solar panel having an electrical connection to power storage, a pivotable center chord attached to the solar panel to allow the panel to rotate, a movable truss supporting the solar panel and the chord, and at least two outriggers to support the truss. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140137926 | MULTILAYER FILM AND PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - Provided is a multilayer film including inorganic particles having a band gap energy of 3.3 eV or more and inorganic particles having a band gap energy of less than 3.3 eV in different layers. Here, the layer including inorganic particles having band gap energy of 3.3 eV or more is disposed at an upper portion than the layer including inorganic particles having a band gap energy of less than 3.3 eV. Accordingly, the layer including inorganic particles having a band gap energy of 3.3 eV or more is included close to incident light to increase a reflectance in UV region and induce internal reflection, thereby enhancing energy conversion efficiency of a cell. At the same time, the multilayer film may include a lower encapsulant layer or backsheet including inorganic particles having a band gap energy of 3.3 eV or more, thereby increasing reflectances in visible and IR regions and thus reducing a loss of the incident light. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140144483 | Solar Module - A single-lens solar module includes solar cells that convert solar radiation into electrical energy, a glass slab, and a single-layer holographic lens formed directly on the glass slab and separated by a distance from the solar cells. The lens is adapted to selectively deflect a first light component comprising visible light and excluding non-visible light, and to concentrate the first component of light onto the solar cells. | 05-29-2014 |
| 20140144484 | Hinge for Solar Tracking Apparatus - A hinge for solar tracking apparatus is disclosed. The hinge includes a first mounting plate, a second mounting plate and a plurality of connecting elements. The first mounting plate has a pair of beveled or curved side faces. The second mounting plate has a pair of beveled or curved side faces. The plurality of connecting elements connect the first mounting plate to the second mounting plate in a spaced apart configuration, wherein each of the plurality of connecting elements connects diagonally opposite side faces of the first mounting plate to the second mounting plate. The hinge facilitates the solar tracking apparatus to track the Sun. | 05-29-2014 |
| 20140150845 | SOLAR TRACKING APPARATUS AND FIELD ARRANGEMENTS THEREOF - A solar tracker assembly for mounting one or more solar tracking units, which can be adapted for use with various solar energy modules such as photovoltaic modules and heliostat mirrors, is provided. Each assembly comprises a frame of four sides connected at leg assemblies, each leg assembly being adapted for mounting a solar tracking unit. The frame may be configured as an oblique-angled, rhombus or diamond frame with a cross member extending between the closer-spaced leg assemblies. A set of frames may be arranged in the field with adjacent sides of adjacent frames being parallel, with spacing arms of predefined lengths interconnecting adjacent pairs of frames, to provide a desired staggered spacing. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140150846 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM WITH MANAGED OUTPUT AND METHOD OF MANAGING VARIABILITY OF OUTPUT FROM A PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - Photovoltaic systems with managed output and methods for managing variability of output from photovoltaic systems are described. A system includes a plurality of photovoltaic modules configured to receive and convert solar energy. The system also includes a sensor configured to determine an orientation for each of the plurality of photovoltaic modules, the orientations based on a maximum output from the photovoltaic system. The system also includes an orientation system configured to alter the orientation of one or more of the plurality of photovoltaic modules to provide a reduced output from the photovoltaic system, the reduced output less than the maximum output. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140158181 | SOLAR RADIATION FILTER AND ELECTRIC POWER GENERATOR - This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus including a power generating and a power saving device having a plurality of shutters and a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) devices. In one aspect, each of the plurality of shutters is configured to move laterally in the plane of the shutter by the action of one or more electrostatic actuators. The array of shutters can control the amount of ambient light that is transmitted through the device. Additionally, the array of shutters can shield or expose the array of the PV devices to ambient sunlight to generate PV power. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158182 | APPARATUS FOR GENERATING ELECTRICITY USING AN OPTICAL FIBER CABLE LIGHT SOURCE AND RELATED METHODS - An apparatus for generating electricity using an optical fiber cable light source and for directing the electricity to an electrical circuit configured to be coupled with an electric utility's electric grid. The apparatus includes an enclosure having an input configured to be coupled with the light source for directing light into the enclosure. The apparatus further includes a photovoltaic module contained within the enclosure and configured to generate electricity from the light. The apparatus further includes an electrical output cable coupled with the photovoltaic module and configured to be coupled with the electrical circuit. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158183 | CONDENSING LENS ARRAY, AND SOLAR CELL PROVIDED WITH SAME - A concentrating lens array according to the present disclosure includes a plurality of unit structures arranged at least one-dimensionally. Each unit structure includes: a first surface through which light enters inside of the structure; a second surface which reflects the light that has entered the structure through the first surface; a third surface which reflects the light that has been reflected from the second surface; and a fourth surface which lets the light that has been reflected from the third surface go out of the structure. In each unit structure, the second and third surfaces are located between an incident plane including the first surface and an emitting plane including the fourth surface. At least one of the second and third surfaces reflects the light after having converged the incoming light. When viewed from over the incident plane, the second surface of each unit structure is laid upon the third surface of an adjacent unit structure, and is located closer to the incident plane than the third surface of the adjacent unit structure is. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140166069 | CONTROLLING A SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM - A method of tracking the sun is disclosed. A measurement of a gravity vector is obtained in a frame of reference of a solar collector rotatable with respect to an earth center of reference. A measurement of a magnetic direction vector is obtained in the frame of reference of the solar collector. The orientation of the solar collector is determined from the obtained measurement of the gravity vector and the obtained measurement of the magnetic direction. The orientation of the solar collector is altered in order to track the sun. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166070 | THERMAL RECEIVER FOR HIGH POWER SOLAR CONCENTRATORS AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLY - A device for dissipating heat from a photovoltaic cell is disclosed. A first thermally conductive layer receives heat from the photovoltaic cell and reduces a density of the received heat. A second thermally conductive layer conducts heat from the first thermally conductive layer to a surrounding environment. An electrically isolating layer thermally couples the first thermally conductive layer and the second thermally conductive layer. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166071 | THERMAL RECEIVER FOR HIGH POWER SOLAR CONCENTRATORS AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLY - A device for dissipating heat from a photovoltaic cell is disclosed. A first thermally conductive layer receives heat from the photovoltaic cell and reduces a density of the received heat. A second thermally conductive layer conducts heat from the first thermally conductive layer to a surrounding environment. An electrically isolating layer thermally couples the first thermally conductive layer and the second thermally conductive layer. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166072 | PHOTOVOLTAIC ASSEMBLY - The invention relates to a photovoltaic assembly ( | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166073 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR INCREASING THE YIELD OF PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - Photovoltaic (PV) assemblies are described. Example PV assemblies include a mounting structure, a PV module coupled to the mounting structure, and a cooling mechanism. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166074 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR INCREASING THE YIELD OF PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - Photovoltaic (PV) assemblies are described. Example PV assemblies include a mounting structure, a PV module coupled to the mounting structure, and a cooling mechanism. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166075 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR TEMPERATURE REGULATION DEVICES - A heat exchanger for coupling to a device is described. The heat exchanger includes an inner layer configured for placement against at least one surface of the device, an outer layer opposite the inner layer, a fluid chamber defined between the outer layer and the inner layer, an inlet for directing a thermal transfer fluid into the fluid chamber, an outlet for receiving the thermal transfer fluid from the fluid chamber, and at least one filler within the fluid chamber. The filler is coupled to the outer layer and the inner layer and configured to control a flow of the thermal transfer fluid between the inlet and the outlet. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166076 | POOL SOLAR POWER GENERATOR - Solar panels located on residential roofs can be unsightly in some cases. A swimming pool solar power generator can locate solar panels in or around the sides and/or bottoms of a swimming pool in a manner so as to create electricity from the sun without creating an eyesore. In an embodiment, a pool solar power generator includes a solar cell module disposed in a portion of a swimming pool. The solar cell module can include solar cells and be submerged under water held by the swimming pool. The solar cell module can convert sunlight incident on the solar cells to electricity and transmit the electricity for use at a location external to the swimming pool. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166077 | SOLAR CONCENTRATION SYSTEM - Embodiments of a system and method for collecting electromagnetic radiation are disclosed. One embodiment of a solar concentration system comprises at least one collector panel, the panel comprising a frame and a plurality of moveable reflector elements mounted therewithin, the plurality of movable reflector elements configured to rotate in unison about a set of parallel first axes and in unison about a second axis relative to an electromagnetic radiation source. The system further comprises at least one receiver comprising a support member and a plurality of energy conversion cells positioned along the support member, each energy conversion cell having an electromagnetic radiation concentrator protruding therefrom, the concentrator comprising an optical element and an entry aperture at a distal end thereof. The plurality of movable reflector elements are configured to reflect electromagnetic radiation from the source onto the at least one receiver for transforming electromagnetic radiation into electrical or thermal energy. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140166078 | LIGHT CONCENTRATOR AND A SOLAR CELL - A light concentrator of an embodiment includes: a first high refractive index layer, a first low refractive index layer, and a second high refractive index layer stacked in sequence, wherein a surface on the first low refractive index layer side of the first high refractive index layer has a periodic concavoconvex region. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140174498 | SOLAR ENERGY PRODUCTION SYSTEM - A device for generating solar electrical energy generally includes an optic for focusing solar radiation, a collimating optic, a semi-conductor optical gates wedge disposed near the focal point of the collimation optic for dispersing incident solar radiation between a plurality of adjacent wavelength bands, an array of photovoltaic cells, each cell being formed from a material for absorbing and converting a corresponding wavelength band dispersed by the wedge into the photovoltaic energy, and a refracting optic disposed between the wedge and the array for directing separated wavelength bands onto corresponding photovoltaic cells. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140174499 | SOLAR THERMAL HELIOSTAT - A heliostat for reflecting sunlight toward a target includes a first structure supporting a mirror including inner and outer tubes being rotatable relative to one another. A first actuator includes an electric motor driving a reduction gearset to rotate one of the first tubes and rotate the mirror about a first axis. A second structure also includes inner and outer rotatable tubes. A second actuator includes a second electric motor driving a reduction gearset to rotate the mirror about a second axis. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140174500 | CONCENTRATOR SYSTEM - A concentrator system having an optical concentrator and a receiver with a carrier substrate and at least one photovoltaic solar cell. The optical concentrator and the receiver are arranged to concentrate incident electromagnetic radiation onto a front side of the solar cell. The solar cell has at least one base and at least one emitter region and at least one metallic base contact structure electrically conductively connected to the base region for external interconnection, and at least one metallic emitter contact structure is electrically conductively connected to the emitter region external contact. The base and emitter contact structures are arranged on the front side of the solar cell. At least one base back-side metallization is provided, and the solar cell has at least one metallic base via structure that extends from the base back-side metallization to the base contact structure for electrically conductive connection by the base via structure. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140174501 | ENEGRY CONVERSION DEVICE AND METHOD - An energy conversion device includes a holographic lens arranged between a glass slab and the first solar cell. The holographic lens is configured to concentrate a portion of a first component of impinging electromagnetic radiation onto the first solar cell and direct a portion of a second component of the electromagnetic radiation away from the first solar cell. The first solar cell is a back contact solar cell configured to convert the first component of the electromagnetic radiation into electrical energy. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140174502 | ZENITHAL ROTATION MODULE FOR ORIENTING SOLAR PANELS - Capable of supporting large radial loads due to heavy panels, with a simplified assembly but without compromise in terms of precision and robustness. It comprises an annular structural casing ( | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140182654 | SUPPORT FOR SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION - A solar energy collection system can include support devices made with bearings. Such bearings can include an inner partially toroidal surface for sliding contact and support of an outer surface of a torque tube. The toroidal surface can be made with a single radius of curvature or multiple radiuses of curvature and cylindrical portions. The bearings can include connectors for connecting the bearing members to a support housing. The connectors can be tool-less connectors. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140182655 | MOUNTING PROCEDURE OF A HIGH-CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR MODULE AND MODULE THUS MOUNTED - Mounting procedure of a high-concentration photovoltaic solar module and module thus obtained, defined to carry out a simple final mounting based on a set of elements arriving from the factory in optimum packaging to facilitate the logistics, three being the main mounting sequences: | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140182656 | WIDEBAND LIGHT ENERGY WAVEGUIDE AND DETECTOR - An electromagnetic energy concentrator uses a prism and waveguide with a gap layer of uniform thickness disposed between the prism and a first surface of waveguide. Energy detectors, which may be photovoltaics or miniaturized antenna elements are disposed adjacent to and co-extensive with a second surface of the waveguide. The detectors operate in each of at least two bands; a distance between detectors operating in a given band depends on a wavelength in the given band. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140182657 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR CELL MODULE AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING CONCENTRATING SOLAR CELL MODULE - The present invention provides a concentrating solar cell module comprising: a base portion having a plurality of mounting regions for mounting solar cells and a plurality of lead electrodes for electrically connecting the solar cells with external electrodes; a support molded with a thermosetting resin such that each of the mounting regions of the base portion is surrounded; the solar cells mounted on the mounting regions; and a condensing lens molded above the mounting regions so as to encapsulate the solar cells, wherein a surface of the mounting regions of the base portion is plated and the condensing lens is molded with a transparent thermosetting silicone resin. The concentrating solar cell module has high heat dissipation properties and a high photoelectric conversion efficiency. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140182658 | SOLAR ENERGY CONVERTER - According to one aspect, there is provided a solar energy converter, including: a lens; a base plate having a first surface that faces the lens and a second surface that is opposite to the first surface; and a solar cell sandwiched between the lens and the base plate, wherein both the lens and the base plate are each provided with at least one channel for fluid for cooling the solar cell. Also contemplated is provision of at least one fin on both the lens and the base plate for cooling the solar cell. According to a second aspect, there is provided a method for cooling a solar energy converter having a lens, a base, and at least one solar cell sandwiched between said lens and said base plate, the method comprising the step of: cooling the at least one solar cell on two opposing sides. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140182659 | METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING MATERIALS FOR LENSES AND LENS ARRAYS AND DEVICES THEREOF - This technology relates generally to methods for the fabrication of lenses which include a glass carrier and an at least partially transmissive layer with one or more slope facets coupled together by one or more draft facets on a surface of the glass carrier. This technology also relates to the resulting lenses and systems including lens arrays. These methods eliminate stress deformation in the resulting lenses by the use of a separator between the glass carrier and the at least partially transmissive layer, at least partial curing of the at least partially transmissive layer prior to formation of the slope and draft facets, modified at least partially transmissive layers which have a cure temperature at or below an operating temperature range of the lens, slope and draft facet dimensions which are selected to correspond with an operating temperature range of the lens, or UV-curable at least partially transmissive layers. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140182660 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR - Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity, heat, or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140190552 | Variable Optical Density Solar Collector - The invention described here is a variable optical density solar collector optimized to be used in a nominally vertical orientation and in synergy with an adjacent, complementary solar concentrator. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140190553 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING SOLARPOWER - A light energy collection apparatus, comprising a one or more concentrating optics to transfer light energy from a source of the light energy to a target of the light energy. A substrate having a photovoltaic cell (PVC) deposited thereon is the target. The PVC is to collect the light energy to be transferred from the one or more concentrating optics. A central drive axle is coupled to the substrate and a motor is coupled to the central drive axle to rotate the central drive axle about a fixed axis to position the substrate, and thereby the PVC, near the one or more concentrating optics to collect the light energy to be transferred therefrom. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140190554 | MONOLITHIC MULTIPLE SOLAR CELLS - A monolithic multiple solar cell includes at least three partial cells, with a semiconductor mirror placed between two partial cells. The aim of the invention is to improve the radiation stability of said solar cell. For this purpose, the semiconductor mirror has a high degree of reflection in at least one part of a spectral absorption area of the partial cell which is arranged above the semiconductor mirror and a high degree of transmission within the spectral absorption range of the partial cell arranged below the semiconductor mirror. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140190555 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR - Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140196761 | Solar tracker and related methods, devices, and systems - Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a solar tracker assembly. In one embodiment, the assembly includes a base having a track, a centrally-positioned base member, a motor operably coupled to the base member, and a plurality of arms extending from the base member towards the track, with the track including a plurality of arcuate members that are assembled to form the track. A rotatable frame is coupled to the arms and has one or more towers and an actuator positioned on the one or more towers. A pivoting frame is coupled to the one or more towers, with the pivoting frame configured to carry a solar panel array. In operation, the motor can rotate the base member and arms around a Z-axis to position the rotatable frame at azimuth and the actuator can move the pivoting frame around an X-Y axis to position the pivoting frame at zenith. | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140196762 | METHODS FOR FORMING OPTIMIZED LENSES ANDDEVICES THEREOF - This technology relates generally to methods for the fabrication of high performance lenses, in particular, lenses including a glass carrier and an at least partially transmissive layer with one or more slope facets coupled together by one of more draft facets on a surface of the glass carrier. The methods involve identifying geometric errors in the slope and draft facets to create correction factors and forming corrected slope and draft facets based on the correction factors. This technology also relates to the resulting lenses and lens arrays. | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140202519 | BROADBAND SUB-WAVELENGTH DIFFRACTIVE OPTICS FOR SOLAR CELLS AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME - Provided are solar cell assemblies for harvesting solar radiation having a diffractive optic, a reflective surface that directs solar radiation to the diffractive optic, and a plurality of solar converters including a first converter having a first energy conversion efficiency, wherein the diffractive optic directs a first portion of the solar radiation to the first converter and a second portion of the solar radiation to the second converter. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140202520 | THIN FILM SOLAR COLLECTOR AND METHOD - A flexible, CPV array having high incident light conversion efficiency, the CPV array comprising: a reflective surface; a plurality of photovoltaic cells configurable to collect radiation from the reflective surface; a concentrating lens (optics) configurable to concentrate the incident light onto the reflective surface and onto the plurality of photovoltaic cells; and a conductor adapted to conduct electricity and heat from the plurality of photovoltaic cells, wherein the CPV array is exposed to incident solar radiation to generate electricity without an incident solar tracking mechanism. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140202521 | SELF-POWERED SOLAR TRACKER - Provided is a self-powered solar tracker, which is a solar tracker for adjusting the altitude of and horizontally rotating a solar collector panel such that the solar collector panel on which a plurality of solar cells are provided can face the sun, wherein the self-powered solar tracker comprises: an altitude adjustment optical sensor unit which has one or more first optical sensors formed by being uniformly spaced on the upper side of convex support surfaces to face the sun and one or more second optical sensors formed by being uniformly spaced on the lower side of the convex support surfaces, and which senses the sunlight so as to adjust the altitude of the solar collector panel; a horizontal rotation optical sensor unit which has one or more third optical sensors formed by being uniformly spaced on the left side of the convex support surfaces to face the sun and one or more fourth optical sensors formed by being uniformly spaced on the right side of the convex support surfaces, and which senses sunlight so as to horizontally rotate the solar collector panel; a passive element circuit which has one or more first comparison circuits for comparing the difference in the quantity of output light between the first optical sensors and the second optical sensors and one or more second comparison circuits for comparing the difference in the quantity of output light between the third optical sensors and the fourth optical sensors, and which outputs a driving value for adjusting the altitude of and horizontally rotating the solar collector panel in the direction having a larger light value; an altitude adjustment driving unit for receiving a driving power source from the solar cells of the solar collector panel and for adjusting the altitude of the solar collector panel according to the driving value of the passive element circuit; and a horizontal rotation driving unit for performing the horizontal rotation. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140202522 | SOLAR PLANT - A solar plant enabling transformation of solar energy exploiting most of the solar spectrum with very efficient yields, including: at least one solar collector including a concentrator, configured to collect and concentrate solar radiation in the concentrator; a solar laser device to transform radiation received from the concentrators into laser radiation; a receiver and/or a solar reactor configured to receive radiation from the laser device and transform it into another form of energy; and can include flexible lightguides or plane mirrors to transport the radiation received from the laser device to the solar reactor and/or receiver, and photovoltaic cells interspersed among the collectors and laser devices to transform the concentrated radiation into electricity and allow radiation not transformed to pass to the laser devices. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140209146 | SOLAR POWER GENERATING APPARATUS - There is disclosed a photovoltaic power generation device that includes solar cell modules installed for solar cell panels, respectively, with forming a height difference or a gap between each two of the solar cell panels, to change an arrangement angle and direction of the solar cell modules for each season period according to variations of the sun altitude and azimuth. | 07-31-2014 |
| 20140209147 | CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR PANEL - The present invention relates to photovoltaic power systems, photovoltaic concentrator modules, and related methods. In particular, the present invention features concentrator modules having interior points of attachment for an articulating mechanism and/or an articulating mechanism that has a unique arrangement of chassis members so as to isolate bending, etc. from being transferred among the chassis members. The present invention also features adjustable solar panel mounting features and/or mounting features with two or more degrees of freedom. The present invention also features a mechanical fastener for secondary optics in a concentrator module. | 07-31-2014 |
| 20140209148 | SOLAR CONCENTRATOR FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS - A solar concentrator ( | 07-31-2014 |
| 20140216520 | SOLAR CELL MODULE AND FABRICATING METHOD THEREOF - A solar cell module has a multiple reflection cavity formed by two parallel solar cell layers. A dye sensitized solar cell layer fills the multiple reflection cavity. The mechanism helps improve the photoelectric conversion efficiency. The fabricating method of the same is also described. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140216521 | Solar Electrical Generator System - In one embodiment, a solar electrical generator system includes a housing having a top side that is substantially transparent to solar radiation, and plurality of panels each having a passive face having reflective material, and an active face having reflective material and one or more photovoltaic (PV) cells. The plurality of panels are mounted within the housing substantially transversely to the top side and parallel to one another, such that solar radiation entering the housing through the top side and impinging a passive face of one panel is at least partially reflected thereby onto an active face of a neighboring panel. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140216522 | HORIZONTAL BALANCED SOLAR TRACKER - In an example, the present invention provides a solar tracker apparatus. In an example, the apparatus comprises a center of mass with an adjustable hanger assembly configured with a clam shell clamp assembly on the adjustable hanger assembly and a cylindrical torque tube comprising a plurality of torque tubes configured together in a continuous length from a first end to a second end such that the center of mass is aligned with a center of rotation of the cylindrical torque tubes to reduce a load of a drive motor operably coupled to the cylindrical torque tube. Further details of the present example, among others, can be found throughout the present specification and more particularly below. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140216523 | CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC-THERMAL SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR - Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity or a combination of heat and electricity are disclosed herein. Examples of solar energy receivers are disclosed that may be used to collect concentrated solar radiation. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140230883 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE, CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL, AND FLEXIBLE PRINTED CIRCUIT FOR CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - As a structure of a concentrator photovoltaic module, a ribbon-shaped flexible printed circuit is arranged along a bottom surface of a vessel-shaped housing. The flexible printed circuit includes a solar cell on a flexible substrate having flexibility, and furthermore, can also include a concentrating portion (a secondary concentrating portion) for concentrating incident sunlight onto the solar cell. Moreover, a primary concentrating portion having a Fresnel lens is attached to the housing side. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140238465 | CPV TRACKING USING PARTIAL CELL VOLTAGES - A solar electricity generator including an array of solar electricity generating elements, a solar energy concentrating element operative to transmit concentrated solar radiation from the sun onto the array, voltage measuring functionality operative to measure at least one of a total row voltage generated by at least one row of the electricity generating elements in the array and a total column voltage generated by at least one column of the electricity generating elements in the array. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140246075 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR APPARATUS - A solar energy collector includes a generally tubular housing or multiple tubular housings each having an open end for receipt of solar rays which are then reflected from a generally conical mirror within the housing onto solar cells lining the inside surface of the housing. Various mechanisms are utilized to favorably orient the housing or otherwise direct the solar rays and to maximize the incidence of reflected solar rays onto solar cells. | 09-04-2014 |
| 20140251410 | PHOTOVOLTAIC ENERGY PANEL - A photovoltaic energy panel has first and second electrically conductive regions on first and second sides of an electrically insulating sheet. Each of at least some pairs of the first electrically conductive regions are connected electrically by a photovoltaic cell between the two members of the pair. The panel also includes vias, each of which electrically connects one of the first electrically conductive regions to one of the second electrically conductive regions. There are first and electrical contacts, at first and second edges of the sheet, each of which is directly or indirectly connected to one of the electrically conductive regions. The electrically conductive regions, the cells and the vias are arranged to provide an electrically conductive path between one of the first contact and one, two or more of the second contacts. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140251411 | LARGE AREA PHOTOVOLTAIC ENERGY-COLLECTING WINDOW/SKYLIGHT - This disclosure provides photovoltaic energy collecting systems, and methods of making such systems. In one implementation, an apparatus includes transmissive light collection panels, each panel having at least one photovoltaic cell on an edge of the panel. The panel is configured to pass through a first portion of incident light and use a second portion of incident light to generate photovoltaic energy. The apparatus also includes a first and second electrical output terminal, a first and second electrical bus, and a metallic frame assembly having multiple openings, each light collection panel being disposed in one of the openings. The frame assembly includes a cavity that houses the first and second electrical bus, the first electrical bus connected to each photovoltaic cell and to the first electrical output terminal, and the second electrical bus is connected to each photovoltaic cell and to the second electrical output terminal. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140251412 | Thin Film Solar Cell - A solar cell that has a thin film of active material in which is defined a series or array of diffraction cells, wherein each diffraction unit-cell has a non-periodic series of diffraction features and is adapted to suppress at least one low order diffraction mode. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140251413 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR CONCENTRATION MODULE - The Present invention relates to a photovoltaic solar concentration module that has a plastic housing which means that solar rays can never be concentrated in certain areas of the inner surface of the housing that are not protected from solar radiation, with the result that said zones are never burnt, and therefore the interior surface of the photovoltaic solar concentration module does not need to be covered with metallic plates over its entire surface since that are zones thereof that are always accessible to solar rays. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140261621 | WINDOW SOLAR HARVESTING MEANS - Systems, methods and apparatus are disclosed, including a light collector having a plurality of focusing elements and a plurality of light redirecting features that is optically coupled to one or more photovoltaic (PV) cells. In one aspect, the light collector includes half-cylinder shaped lenses that can focus light incident at various angles onto an elongate v-groove in the light guide such that a first portion of the incident light is diverted to one or more PV cells and a second portion of the incident light is transmitted through the light collector to provide illumination. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140261622 | SUN-TRACKING PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR CONCENTRATOR PANEL - Systems, methods and apparatus are disclosed, including a light collector having a plurality of focusing elements and a plurality of light redirecting features that is optically coupled to one or more photovoltaic (PV) cells. In one aspect, the light collector includes half-cylinder shaped lenses that can focus light incident at various angles onto an elongate v-groove in the light guide such that a first portion of the incident light is diverted to one or more PV cells and a second portion of the incident light is transmitted through the light collector to provide illumination. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140261623 | 3-D Solar Cell Device For A Concentrated Photovoltaic System - A low cost design for a concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) solar cell device is developed with a 3-D solar cell structure that eliminates the need for sun-ray tracking and with improved electricity conversion efficiency for cooling solar cells. The 3-D solar cell structure can be built with conventional monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon or with multi-junction III-V solar material, joining two or more solar cell segments perpendicular to a base solar cell. This structure is able to collect all incident sunlight from sunrise to sunset. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140261624 | CUSTOMIZED COLOR PATTERNING OF PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS - Photovoltaic cells and photovoltaic modules, as well as methods of making and using such photovoltaic cells and photovoltaic modules, are disclosed. More particularly, embodiments of the photovoltaic cells selectively reflect visible light to provide the photovoltaic cells with a colorized appearance. Photovoltaic modules combining colorized photovoltaic cells may be used to harvest solar energy while providing a customized appearance, e.g., an image or pattern. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140261625 | CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL - A concentrated photovoltaic panel comprises at least one rigid sheet, one or more first optical elements disposed adjacent a first side of the at least one rigid sheet, one or more second optical elements disposed adjacent a second side of the at least one rigid sheet, and one or more photovoltaic elements. Each photovoltaic element is disposed between a respective first optical element and a respective second optical element. Each first optical element comprises at least one lens configured to focus light impinging thereon onto a corresponding reflecting surface of the respective second optical element. Each second optical element is configured to reflect light focused by the first optical element to the photovoltaic element disposed therebetween. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140261626 | SUPPORT FOR SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION - A solar energy collection system can include support devices made with bearings. Such bearings can include an inner partially toroidal surface for sliding contact and support of an outer surface of a torque tube. The toroidal surface can be made with a single radius of curvature or multiple radiuses of curvature and cylindrical portions. The bearings can include connectors for connecting the bearing members to a support housing. The connectors can be tool-less connectors. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140261627 | POWER AUGMENTATION IN CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES BY COLLECTION OF DIFFUSE LIGHT - A concentrator-type photovoltaic module includes a backplane substrate, a plurality of concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) receivers on a surface of the backplane substrate, and concentrating optics positioned over the surface of the backplane substrate and configured to focus on-axis incident light onto the CPV receivers. A plurality of non-concentrator photovoltaic (PV) cells are provided on the surface of the backplane substrate. The PV cells are positioned to receive light that passes off-axis through the concentrating optics. Related devices and methods are also discussed. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140261628 | HIGH EFFICIENCY SOLAR RECEIVERS INCLUDING STACKED SOLAR CELLS FOR CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAICS - A solar receiver includes at least two electrically independent photovoltaic cells which are stacked. An inter-cell interface between the photovoltaic cells includes a multi-layer dielectric stack. The multi-layer dielectric stack includes at least two dielectric layers having different refractive indices. Related devices and fabrication methods are also discussed. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140261629 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION SYSTEM EMPLOYING REFLECTORS AND SUN TRACKING - A solar energy system for collecting and converting solar energy to electricity using photovoltaic devices. The system further includes reflective panels to concentrate incident solar energy onto an array of solar panels, as well as an automated sun tracking system to rotate the solar and reflective panels to follow the sun. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140261630 | PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL - A photovoltaic system comprising a first photovoltaic panel configured to collect direct light; and a second photovoltaic panel configured to collect, at least, indirect light transmitted through the one or more first photovoltaic panels. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140261631 | SUNLIGHT CONCENTRATING AND HARVESTING DEVICE - Device for concentrating and harvesting sunlight comprising: A panel having rigid layer having a patterned electrical circuit thereon. An array of sunlight concentrating and harvesting units, each unit being formed by at least one rigid element and a portion of the rigid layer; and including: a rigid optical concentrating element, a photovoltaic cell sandwiched within the panel for converting sunlight into electrical energy, and an electrical conductor. The electrical conductor being the primary heat sink for the photovoltaic cell, the photovoltaic cell being primarily cooled via conduction. The electrical conductor and the optical concentrating element being dimensioned and arranged within the unit such that the electrical conductor does not materially impede transmission of sunlight to the photovoltaic cell. The electrical conductor transmitting electrical and thermal energy received from the photovoltaic cell away from the unit. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140283894 | Solar Photovoltaic Support and Tracking System with vertical adjustment capability - Installation of solar energy systems is made easier through the use of augur tubes. The base augur tube accommodates telescoping sections which enable these systems to exhibit a smaller footprint with enhanced power ratings. A tracking head is provided in which dual axis tracking is provided using a single drive mechanism. These features are employed either together or independently. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140283895 | CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL - Concentrated photovoltaic panel comprises: (1) a receiver substrate assembly including: (a) a rigid sheet of light transmissive material having a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a conductor pattern attached to the first surface; and (b) at least one receiver assembly affixed to the rigid sheet, each receiver assembly including a photovoltaic cell in electrical communication with the conductor pattern; and (2) at least one light-guide optic attached to and supported by the receiver substrate assembly, each light-guide optic in optical communication with the photovoltaic cell of an associated one of the at least one receiver assembly for guiding light received via the receiver substrate assembly toward said photovoltaic cell. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140290714 | GLASS COATED WITH A HIGHLY REFLECTIVE FILM AND PROCESS FOR PREPARING THE SAME - The present invention discloses a glass coated with a highly reflective film and the process for preparing the same. The present invention provides a glass coated with a highly reflective film comprising a glass substrate and a highly reflective film formed thereon, wherein the highly reflective film comprises inorganic film-forming materials, adhesives and solvents. The present invention also provides a process for preparing a glass coated with a highly reflective film comprising the following steps: (1) preparing a coating solution; (2) coating the coating solution on a glass; and (3) curing the coated glass. The coated glass is white. Compared with conventional fluorine-containing back sheet materials, the coated glass of the present invention has excellent reflectivity, thermal conductivity, water resistance, mechanical properties and weatherability. Further, the manufacture of the present invention is simple, cost efficient and suitable for large-scale commercialization. | 10-02-2014 |
| 20140290715 | VARIABLE TILT TRACKER FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAYS - A solar tracking system is disclosed. The tracking system includes a tube rotatable around its end-to-end axis. A first support is coupled to the tube at a first location of the tube, and is coupled with a first base. A second support is coupled to the tube at a second location of the tube, and is coupled with a second base. A translation mechanism is coupled with the tube and provided to change the position of the first support relative to the second support. | 10-02-2014 |
| 20140299174 | SYSTEM OF GEOTHERMAL COOLING FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR PANELS AND APPLICATION THEREOF - The instant invention provides a geothermal cooling system for cooling semiconductor PV panels operating in either concentrating or non-concentrating mode, which comprises heat sink mounted onto the underside of the silicon PV panel, a subterranean-level condenser, and other necessary equipment. Different embodiments of the geothermal cooling system are also provided in this invention. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140299175 | RIGID OR FLEXIBLE SOLAR COLLECTOR WITH AN IMAGE DISPLAYED ON THE SURFACE AND METHODS FOR PRODUCING SAME - A device with a collector for collecting light energy from a light source includes a transparent plate between the light source and the collector, whereof a first face is structured by an array of lenses separated by slots, while the second face contains areas of pixels, and transparent areas. An observer can view an image on the surface of the screen, even though the screen is transparent to solar radiation. This solar radiation reaches a solar collector behind the plate. The slots are provided in the thickness of the plate and have the effect of making the screen flexible and rollable about an axis. These slots also have the optical property of increasing the angles of view of the image. This invention is particularly suitable for the visual integration of solar collectors into the environment, generally on any imaged media, including electronic images, and on any planar or non-planar surfaces. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140299176 | CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL ARRAY - Apparatus for the industrial wiring and final testing of photovoltaic concentrator modules, consisting of a module frame, a lens disc, a sensor carrier disc and an electrical line routing arrangement, comprising the following features: a) a laser contact-making device for the contactless connection of connecting lines between the individual sensors and of connecting elements and of collective contact plates, wherein the line routing arrangement on the sensor carrier disc as basic structure has in each case 5 CPV sensors connected in parallel, and these parallel circuits are connected in series, b) a device for testing electrical properties, wherein a specific voltage is applied to CPV sensors themselves, and the light emitted by them via the lenses is detected and assessed, c) a device for testing tightness of finished concentrator modules, wherein compressed air is applied to the modules in the interior and the emission of compressed air is checked. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140305489 | SOLAR PANEL POSITIONING ASSEMBLY - A solar panel positioning assembly having at least one fluid filled tank that is connected to at least one piston. The fluid filled tank is shaded by a solar panel when the panel is perpendicular to the sun. When the panel is not perpendicular to the sun, the fluid filled tank is heated by the sun, causing the fluid to expand and increase pressure in the piston. As the pressure increases the piston moves the solar array until the solar panel is perpendicular to the sun. | 10-16-2014 |
| 20140311549 | SOLAR-POWER ENHANCING MODULE AND SUN TRACKING SYSTEM THEREOF - The present disclosure provides a solar-power enhancing module comprising: a base plate and a plurality of photovoltaic units disposed on the base plate. Each of the photovoltaic units comprises: a solar panel, a pair of first reflector boards and a pair of second reflector boards. The two first reflector boards are disposed at two opposite sides of the photovoltaic unit. Each of the first reflector boards has a first reflector face at the front thereof. The two second reflector boards are disposed at the other two sides of the photovoltaic unit. Each of the second reflector boards has a second reflector face at the front thereof. | 10-23-2014 |
| 20140311550 | LOW WIND RESISTANCE SELF BALLASTING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE MOUNTING SYSTEMS - This disclosure provides a photovoltaic module array mounting system comprising a photovoltaic module array comprising a plurality of photovoltaic modules. An individual photovoltaic module of the plurality can include one or more photovoltaic cells that can be configured to generate electricity upon exposure to light. The system can further comprise a first mounting structure comprising a frame that mounts the photovoltaic module array. The first mounting structure can permit rotation of an individual photovoltaic module of the plurality of photovoltaic modules of the photovoltaic module array. The system can further comprise a second mounting structure mounted to the first mounting structure with the aid of a plurality of posts. The second mounting structure comprises modular elements that are configured to couple to one another with the aid of snap-in feature | 10-23-2014 |
| 20140318597 | HIGH EFFICIENCY SOLAR DEVICE WITH SENSORS - Disclosed herein is a solar panel support structure that includes a base, a mounting structure extending from the base, and a frame connected to the mounting structure. The frame is configured to receive a solar panel. The structure further includes a first actuator configured to rotate the frame in a first rotational direction and a second actuator configured to rotate the frame in a second rotational direction. The second rotational direction is perpendicular to the first rotational direction. The structure further includes a light sensor system configured to determine the intensity of light coming from each of a north direction, a south direction, an east direction and a west direction. Finally, the structure includes a controller configured to receive input from the light sensor system and control the first actuator and the second actuator such that the first actuator and the second actuator position the frame such that the frame is at least one of perpendicular and substantially perpendicular to the sun. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140318598 | SUN TRACKING DEVICE AND SOLAR CELL SYSTEM - A sun tracking device comprises a light sensing module, a processing module, a control module, and a driving module. The light sensing module includes eight light sensors, a pole fixing portion, and a pole. The eight light sensors each have a light sensing surface. The pole fixing portion has a fixing surface. The eight light sensing surfaces and the fixing surface cooperatively form a 3×3 grid, and the fixing surface is in the middle of the grid. The pole extends from the fixing surface. The processing module is configured for determining the direction of the sun, and calculating a rotating direction and angle of the light sensing module. The control module is configured for sending out a rotating instruction. The driving module is configured for driving the light sensing module to rotate so that the sunlight perpendicularly shines onto the light sensing surface. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140318599 | Stacking System For Photovoltaic Power Generation Module - Provided is a stacking system for photovoltaic power generation modules. The stacking system includes: first and second support spaced apart from each other; and a plurality of rest plates whose both ends are respectively coupled to the first and second support for placing the photovoltaic power generation module on the rest plates. The photovoltaic power generation modules are stacked by placing the photovoltaic power generation module on the rest plates. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140318600 | CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC COLLECTOR - A combined solar daylighting system and photovoltaic electric generation system operates when daylighting both is and is not required. A photovoltaic (PV) array is mounted on the back side of a secondary reflector of the daylighting system with the secondary reflector hinged in such a way that, when sunlight is not needed, the PV array can be positioned to collect the concentrated solar radiation from the primary reflector and convert it into electrical energy. When sunlight is needed for daylighting, the PV array on the back of the secondary reflector receives unconcentrated solar radiation, thereby converting it to electrical energy, though not in as large a quantity as when receiving concentrated solar radiation from the primary concentrating reflector in solar-only mode. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140326292 | MULTI-LAYERED SOLAR CELL DEVICE - Multi-layered solar cell devices covered with partially transmissive graphic films. The multi-layered solar cell devices include at least one solar cell, a graphics layer over the solar cell, and a reflective layer. The reflective layer can be behind the solar cell for recycling light or between the partially transmissive graphic film and the solar cell for improved appearance. The multi-layered solar cell devices have a high efficiency and a customizable appearance. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140326293 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR SOLAR ENERGY CONCENTRATION AND CONVERSION - A reflective concentrating optical apparatus capable of efficient solar power collection and conversion is disclosed. A corrugated monolithic reflector or a modified Mersenne optical system with corrugated primary reflector concentrates sunlight with high irradiance uniformity and minimal optical loss, so that an optical fiber bundle or a high efficiency solar cell can be placed near the focal area for efficient light collection or solar-to-electrical power conversion. The solar cell is directly attached onto a phase-transition cooling apparatus comprising a heat pipe and a heat sink to keep the solar cell within a temperature range that enables high solar-to-electrical power conversion efficiency. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140326294 | SOLAR POWER GENERATION PANEL UNIT AND SOLAR POWER GENERATION APPARATUS - A second panel and a third panel are arranged on both sides of a first panel in a width direction, the panels have an identical length and are parallel to each other so that a difference in level is provided between the first panel and the second panel or the third panel with a gap, a width of the first panel is three times or more a width of the second panel and is three times or more a width of the third panel, and when a width of an entire panel unit as a total of the widths of the first to third panels is 1, a ratio of the difference in level between the front surface of the first panel and the front surface of the second panel is 0.05 to 0.1. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140332052 | SOLAR POWER SYSTEM WITH CLIMATE CONTROL AND METHOD THEREOF - A system and method configured to increase electric output of solar power via at least one solar panel by directing forced air from an air-conditioning condenser unit to the solar panel, thereby reducing the temperature of the solar panel. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140332053 | PROTECTIVE CIRCUIT FOR AN ELECTRICALLY FLOATING PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAY - A protective circuit for an electrically floating photovoltaic array including a plurality of strings, each string including one or more photovoltaic modules connected in series, the plurality of strings being connected in parallel to supply electrical power from the photovoltaic modules to a load. A first string of the plurality of strings further includes two diodes connected in series, with one or more of the photovoltaic modules connected in series between the two diodes, to prevent a harmful reverse cur rent through at least one photovoltaic module in the event of a multiple earth fault. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140332054 | SOLAR COLLECTOR HAVING A PIVOTABLE CONCENTRATOR ARRANGEMENT - The invention relates to a trough collector comprising a number of secondary concentrators, by which the solar radiation concentrated by the concentrator of the trough collector in a first direction transverse to the length thereof is concentrated in a second direction running along the trough collector, wherein the secondary concentrators each have a first, front reflecting wall and a second, rear reflecting wall which concentrate the radiation in the second direction, and wherein the secondary concentrators are arranged such as to be synchronously pivotable with one another, preferably about a respective pivot axis fixed with respect to the primary concentrator, such that as the position of the sun changes, the secondary concentrators can always be oriented in accordance with the incident radiation. The invention is characterised in that the first and the second reflecting wall of the secondary concentrators have different lengths in the entry region of the radiation, such that a longer reflecting wall of one secondary concentrator lies in each case next to a shorter reflecting wall of the adjacent secondary concentrator. The secondary concentrators can thereby be arranged side by side without a gap, yet remain pivotable over a range of minus 20 degrees to plus 70 degrees with respect to the primary concentrator. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140332055 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module is provided, including following elements. The solar collector includes a first optical surface, a second optical surface, and a third optical surface, in which a light enters the solar collector from the first optical surface, and then exits from the second optical surface after collection. The solar cell chip panel has a light-receiving surface for receiving the light exited from the second optical surface. The solar cell chip panel absorbs a specific spectrum band in the light and converting that into electricity. The light filter interface is disposed on the third optical surface, allowing light beyond the specific spectrum band to transmit the third optical surface. The cooling pipeline system includes a heat absorber, in which the light filter interface is disposed between the third optical surface and the heat absorber, and the water flowing through the heat absorber absorbs light beyond the specific spectrum band. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140338722 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES WITH A CONTROLLED COLOR ON THEIR WINDOW SURFACE AND ARRAYS THEREOF - Thin film photovoltaic devices are provided that include a transparent substrate defining an inner surface and an outer surface; a thin film stack on the inner surface of the transparent substrate; an encapsulation substrate on the thin film stack; and a color reflection film on the outer surface of the transparent substrate. The thin film stack has a photovoltaic heterojunction (e.g., formed from a n-type window thin film layer and an absorber thin film layer). Generally, the color reflection film comprises a colorant, such as a refractive material (e.g., a nitride material, an oxide material, or mixtures thereof). Methods are also provided for forming such a photovoltaic device, and for forming an array of photovoltaic devices to define an image. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140338723 | System and Method for Periodic Solar Module Adjustment - An adjustable solar module system includes a solar module configured for use with an electronic information system. The solar module has incremental settings for the horizontal and vertical positioning of the solar panels. The electronic information system includes a database that communicates with a user device (e.g. cell phone or computer) via a communications network. The system receives the user's GPS coordinates via the user's device. Based on the location, and the date, the system retrieves the position of the sun from the database. The sun's position is translated into horizontal and vertical coordinates that are then translated into the appropriate horizontal and vertical settings found on the solar module. The horizontal and vertical settings are then transmitted to the user's device to enable the user to make the appropriate adjustments. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140338724 | Compact LCPV solar electric generator - A compact low concentration photovoltaic apparatus totally enclosed in a protective clear dome against harsh environment without active cooling. A conical mirror reflector, a circular lens refractor and a round crystalline silicon photovoltaic solar panel rotate simultaneously inside the dome to concentrate sun rays and instantly produce electricity. The mirror increases electrical current three times and the lens increases one time for total four times using low overall concentration of five to twenty times sun. The lens is offset from the plane parallel to the photovoltaic solar panel, whilst the panels forming the mirror are angled offset to a center axis perpendicular to the solar panel. The optical assembly and solar panel are mounted in a conical aluminum cage which is pivoted from a rotary turntable for the daily azimuth and altitude rotations. The dual axis movements consist of irregular intermittent increments of less than one second “on time” and less than two minutes “off time” while following the sun path. The electrical power produced is at least two times more than from fixed conventional crystalline silicon solar panel occupying the same planar surface area. LCPV dual tracking systems offer reduced electricity generation costs, reduced installation costs and increased flexibility in deployment. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140338725 | System For Generating Photovoltaic Power - The present invention relates to a system for generating photovoltaic power. The system for generating photovoltaic power is characterized by including: a light collection part shaped like a dome bulged outward and having a light condenser lens unit for condensing incident light rays; a light diffusion part having a light diffusion lens unit for diffusing the light rays collected by the light collection part; and a solar panel for receiving the light rays diffused by the light diffusion part. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140338726 | SOLAR CELL AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SAME - A solar cell includes: a substrate having heat dissipating characteristics; a solar cell bonded to the substrate such that the solar cell is electrically connected on a first conductive line and a second conductive line, which are disposed on a surface of the substrate; a lens, which is bonded to a transparent electrode of the solar cell; a plurality of projections, which maintain a gap between the substrate and the lens; tapered hole sections in the substrate, each of said tapered hole sections having a tapered section of each of the protruding sections fitted therein; and a sealing resin applied to the gap. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140338727 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - Disclosed is a solar cell module. The solar cell module includes a solar cell panel including a plurality of solar cells; a protective substrate on the solar cell panel; and a ventilation unit for ventilating the solar cell panel. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140345670 | Passively Tracking Partially Concentrating Photovoltaic Solar Panel - The invention relates to passively tracking, partially concentrating solar panels that feature the ability to perpetually self-concentrate impinging light on a portion of the underlying photovoltaic material during varying times of the day and throughout the year. Such solar panels feature higher conversion efficiencies and higher output when compared to equivalent sized conventional solar panels and do not require an active tracking system to adjust for yearly difference in the sun's elevation above the horizon. | 11-27-2014 |
| 20140345671 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module includes: a module main body; a frame body; and a terminal box. The module main body includes a solar cell. The module main body is mounted to the frame body. The terminal box is arranged on a main surface on the side of a rear surface of the module main body. The solar cell is electrically connected to the terminal box. The terminal box is arranged outside an area surrounded by the frame body. | 11-27-2014 |
| 20140352757 | Smart modular automated multi axis case for solar modules, panels, electronic displays, sensors, and the like - The present invention comprises a novel smart multi-axis rotating case for a variety of products and functions. It is meant to give people alternative ways in which to use solar power. In preferred embodiments, the present invention is a device such as a 2 axis dual pitch Tracking Case which may be a solar tracking case to track the rotation of the sun. Solar Trackers aren't generally known for being low profile light cases with handles that are easily portable and interchangeable from buildings yards ground mounts or vehicle roof or roof rack mounts. The device as described by examples herein is meant to provide individuals with a new evolved way of using solar power. This product also works well as a container filled with hundreds of units for mobile power deployment. With batteries and controlling hardware this product ships more solar power (more watts per sq. foot). Smaller embodiments of the device include a personnel portable mini model for use with back packs, briefcases, laptops, bikes, wagons, emergency vehicles and more. Current solar 2 axis solar trackers are generally bulky heavy slow machines that afford little flexibility and alternative capability. This device seeks new markets for alternative solar products that one can take with them in emergencies or camping and or remote work sites. A product that one could easily set up at home and then put on or in the family vehicle. Small travel pack arrays that fit in a van truck or car are another ideal application of the device. Currently available solar panels and Solar Trackers do not offer the capability and flexibility that the multi-axis rotating case as described herein does. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140352758 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - Provided is a solar cell module. The solar cell module includes a heat sink, a light guide plate on the heat sink, a cooling part passing through a center of the light guide plate between the light guiding plate and the heat sink, the cooling part extending from a center of the heat sink up to each of edges of the heat sink, solar cells fixed to the cooling part, and a light concentrating plate disposed on the solar cells, cooling part, and the light guiding plate to concentrate solar light onto the light guide plate and the solar cells. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140352759 | REFLECTOR FOR A PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER MODULE - A photovoltaic power module including a reflector, and methods for manufacturing the reflector. The photovoltaic power module includes a plurality of photovoltaic cells arranged in an array, including a photon source facing surface having a plurality of active areas that convert photons to electrical energy and a plurality of inactive areas that do not convert photons to electrical energy. The reflector covers at least one inactive area of a photon source facing surface, for reflecting photons that would otherwise have fallen on the inactive area onto an active area. The output of the photovoltaic power module may therefore be increased. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140352760 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS - This invention relates to photovoltaic (PV) unit adapted to provide wireless power transfer output comprising one or more photovoltaic cells that generate electrical output, and at least one wireless power transfer transmitter coupled to transfer the electrical output via wireless power transfer. Such a PV unit can be provided in combination with a roofing, cladding or siding module. Such a module comprises an underlapping region and an exposed region of an adjacent module when installed on a building surface; and an outer surface and an under surface, wherein the under surface of the underlapping region is profiled to define a pathway for air flow between the module and the building surface. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140352761 | OPTOELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH BYPASS DIODE - Optoelectronic devices with bypass diodes are described. An optoelectronic device includes a bypass diode, a heat spreader unit disposed above, and extending over, the bypass diode, and a heat sink disposed above the heat spreader unit. Another optoelectronic device includes a bypass diode, a heat spreader unit disposed above, but not extending over, the bypass diode, and a heat sink disposed above the heat spreader unit. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140360555 | PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER CURTAILMENT METHODS AND SYSTEMS - Photovoltaic (PV) power curtailment methods and systems are disclosed. One example is a method of reducing a power output of a PV array including at least one tracking device operated to rotate the PV modules about at least the first axis of rotation to substantially maintain a first angle of incidence of solar radiation on the PV modules. The method includes determining a power output of the PV array, and in response to a determination to reduce the power output of the PV array to a reduced power output, rotating the PV modules away from the first angle of incidence using the at least one tracking device until the power output of the PV array is substantially equal to a reduced power output. | 12-11-2014 |
| 20140366928 | LIGHT RECEIVING ELEMENT MODULE AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREFOR - Light receiving elements of a back connection type including first and second electrodes on their back sides are connected by an inter-element connecting body including a tabular main body section and an inter-element connecting section to form a light receiving element module. The main body section is selectively directly connected to the first electrode and arranged on the second electrode via an insulating layer. The main body section covers substantially the entire back side of each of the light receiving elements excluding a part of the second electrode. The second electrode is connected to the inter-element connecting section of an adjacent light receiving element. The main body section forms a reflecting section between the main body section and the light receiving element to enable reflected light to be made incident on the light receiving element from a gap between the first and second electrodes. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140366929 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SOLAR ENERGY UTILIZATION - A system for solar energy utilization is described. The system comprises a solar receiver, a solar energy concentrator mounted on a pole extending from the solar receiver along the main axis of the system, and a solar tracking system. The solar receiver is configured for receiving solar energy from the sun and concentrating the received solar energy at a predetermined spot area. The solar receiver includes a plurality of flexible mirrors independent of each other and radially arranged around a main axis of the system. The flexible mirrors are configured to be either deployed for operation or collapsed, for example for transportation or in the cases of possible damage of the system. The solar energy concentrator is located at the predetermined spot area in which the solar energy reflected from said plurality of flexible mirrors is concentrated, and configured for converting the concentrated reflected energy into electric energy. The solar tracking system is configured for sensing position of the sun and tilting the system for directing the solar receiver towards the sun to receive and reflect maximum sunlight onto the predetermined spot area. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140373898 | OPTICAL SYSTEMS FABRICATED BY PRINTING-BASED ASSEMBLY - Provided are optical devices and systems fabricated, at least in part, via printing-based assembly and integration of device components. In specific embodiments the present invention provides light emitting systems, light collecting systems, light sensing systems and photovoltaic systems comprising printable semiconductor elements, including large area, high performance macroelectronic devices. Optical systems of the present invention comprise semiconductor elements assembled, organized and/or integrated with other device components via printing techniques that exhibit performance characteristics and functionality comparable to single crystalline semiconductor based devices fabricated using conventional high temperature processing methods. Optical systems of the present invention have device geometries and configurations, such as form factors, component densities, and component positions, accessed by printing that provide a range of useful device functionalities. Optical systems of the present invention include devices and device arrays exhibiting a range of useful physical and mechanical properties including flexibility, shapeability, conformability and stretchablity. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20140373899 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM, METHOD FOR DETECTING TRACKING DEVIATION, METHOD FOR CORRECTING TRACKING DEVIATION, CONTROL DEVICE, PROGRAM FOR DETECTING TRACKING DEVIATION, AND, PROGRAM FOR CORRECTING TRACKING DEVIATION - Provided is a concentrator photovoltaic system including: a concentrator photovoltaic panel; a driving device configured to cause the concentrator photovoltaic panel to perform operation of tracking the sun; and a control device configured to detect a change pattern repeatedly occurring in temporal change in generated power of the concentrator photovoltaic panel, and configured to compare the detected change pattern with a form characteristic to deviation in an azimuth and a form characteristic to deviation in an elevation, to detect the presence/absence of deviation in tracking. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20140373900 | INFLATED TUBULAR SOLAR CONCENTATORS - A solar collector utilizes an inflated tubular film which concentrates sunlight onto a solar receiver. The film incorporates refractive elements in a pattern which focuses light in one or two dimensions to create foci in the form of lines, spots, or other shapes. The film may be replaceable. The film may include layers of material to optimize optical, structural, thermal, and durability characteristics. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20140373901 | Optical Concentrator and Associated Photovoltaic Devices - Disclosed is a transmissive optical concentrator comprising an elliptical collector aperture and a non-elliptical exit aperture, the concentrator being operable to concentrate radiation incident on said collector aperture. The body of said concentrator may have a substantially hyperbolic external profile. Also disclosed is a photovoltaic cell employing such a concentrator and a photovoltaic building unit comprising an array of optical transmissive concentrators, each having an elliptical collector aperture; and an array of photovoltaic cells, each aligned with an exit aperture of a concentrator, wherein the area between adjacent collector apertures is transmissive to visible radiation. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20140373902 | Supplemental Solar Energy Collector - A supplemental solar energy collection system including a photovoltaic panel which converts incident radiation into electricity. A housing includes a top thermally conductive surface mated with the photovoltaic panel and serving as a thermal collector. Open channels behind the thermally conductive surface carry fluid in contact with the top thermally conductive surface for removing heat from the photovoltaic panel. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20150007868 | ENHANCED PHOTOVOLTAIC PERFORMANCE WITH MODIFIED BUS BAR REGION - A photovoltaic device includes a planar photovoltaic panel including top electrode. A bus bar is affixed to the top electrode. A light scattering structure is affixed to the bus bar. The light scattering structure includes at least one reflecting surface arranged at an obtuse angle to the plane of the photovoltaic panel to reflect light onto the photovoltaic panel. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20150007869 | PORTABLE SOLAR TRACKER - The tracking device of the present disclosure includes a platform, support structure, and a cylinder. The cylinder comprises a plunger, an interior space, an aperture, and a fluid within the cylinder. Forward actuation of the plunger within the interior space the fluid to be pushed through the aperture. The platform is operably connected to the plunger, so that movement of the plunger causes the platform to rotate about a pivot point of the support structure. The tracking device can have a solar panel connected to the platform. The tracking device can also be used in any application where tracking would be of use, such as for surveillance, or time-lapse photography. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20150007870 | Heliostat Repositioning System and Method - A system and method for providing real time control of a heliostat array or CPV/PV module that reduces actuation cost, the disclosure reduces the fixed cost of calibrating and repositioning an individual surface. This simultaneously removes the core engineering assumption that drives the development of large trackers, and enables a system and method to cost effectively track a small surface. In addition to lower initial capital cost, a small heliostat or solar tracker can be pre-assembled, mass-produced, and shipped more easily. Smaller mechanisms can also be installed with simple hand tools and do not require installers to rent expensive cranes or installation equipment. | 01-08-2015 |
| 20150013751 | Suitable Control Method for A System of Photovoltaic Concentration Modules - The invention relates to a suitable control method for a system of photovoltaic concentration modules, which can be used to maintain the correct orientation of the modules in order to track the sun without requiring the use of positioning sensors. The sun is tracked by performing angular movements in relation to each of the degrees of freedom at given intervals, measuring the power or current supplied by the energy collection module(s). The estimation of the sun's position and the strategy for subsequent movements are determined as a function of the reading. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150020865 | Methods and apparatus for Inflatable concentrated solar energy station/balloon and self supporting cable - With the new development of clean energy technology, there are more and more demand for concentrated solar energy to provide lightweight, cost-effective power and thermal generation. There's also a (separated) requirement to transmit power/energy effectively. The current invention including using a unique inflatable structure to concentrate solar energy, and made possible to create a balloon type solar power station to capture solar power above the ground. It also provides a self supporting cable solution for power transmission that overcomes the obstacles of supporting the weight of the cable and also be able to overcoming/reduce the wind drag related load to the cable. | 01-22-2015 |
| 20150020866 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE WITH COOLING DEVICE - A photovoltaic module with cooling device is described. The photovoltaic module has a laminated composite composed of a rear sheet, photovoltaic layer system, and front sheet arranged one above another, and a structural plate arranged on the rear side of the rear sheet. At least one channel running between a coolant inlet and a coolant outlet is introduced into the structural plate, at least two contact areas are formed on the surface of the structural plate, the contact areas being separated from one another by the channel and the structural plate being connected to the rear side via the contact areas, and the channel is at least partially filled with a liquid coolant. | 01-22-2015 |
| 20150020867 | Optoelectronic Device with Heat Spreader Unit - A solar module includes a solar cell, a heat spreader layer disposed above the solar cell, and a cell interconnect disposed above the solar cell. From a top-down perspective, the heat spreader layer at least partially surrounds an exposed portion of the cell interconnect. | 01-22-2015 |
| 20150027509 | SUPPORTING STRUCTURE FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL - The invention relates to a field of photovoltaic panels, and specifically to photovoltaic panels operating with irrigation of their backsides by liquid heat transfer medium. | 01-29-2015 |
| 20150027510 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE, CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL, AND FLEXIBLE PRINTED CIRCUIT FOR CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A concentrator photovoltaic module including: a flexible printed circuit provided in contact with a bottom surface of a housing; and a primary concentrating portion formed by a plurality of lens elements being arranged, each lens element concentrating sunlight, wherein the flexible printed circuit includes: an insulating base material and a conductive pattern; a plurality of power generating elements provided on the pattern, so as to correspond to the lens elements, respectively; a cover lay as a covering layer having insulating property and a low water absorption not higher than a predetermined value, the cover lay covering and sealing a conductive portion including the pattern on the insulating base material; and an adhesive layer having insulating property and a low water absorption not higher than the predetermined value, the adhesive layer bonding the insulating base material and the covering layer together. | 01-29-2015 |
| 20150027511 | TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR SOLAR CELL MODULE - An aspect of present invention is to provide a temperature control system for a solar cell module, capable of controlling a solar cell module to maintain a proper temperature, the temperature control system comprises: a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature of the solar cell module; a fluid tube having therein a path along which a temperature controlling fluid flows; a pump configured to supply a temperature controlling fluid which flows along the fluid tube; and an inverter configured to drive the pump such that the temperature controlling fluid is supplied, if the current temperature of m the solar cell module is not lower than the pre-stored first pump driving reference temperature, or if the current temperature of the solar cell module is not higher than the pre-stored second pump driving reference temperature. | 01-29-2015 |
| 20150027512 | SHAFT BEARING FOR SOLAR PANELS AND DRIVE UNIT - The present invention relates to a device for the mounting and single-axis solar position tracking of a plurality of tracking units arranged successively in the north-south direction for solar panels having multiple drive units for this solar position tracking, wherein each tracking unit consists of a supporting framework for two adjacent solar panel assemblies each having multiple solar panels, which are installed on panel carriers, each have an associated main support shaft and a drive unit, wherein each main support shaft is connected at the ends to a main support receptacle in each case, the imaginary longitudinal axis through all main support receptacles forms the overall axis of rotation of the device, wherein the overall axis of rotation can have a bend, the drive unit is connected to two directly adjacent main support receptacles, so that a drive unit communicates in each case with two main support shafts, and causes the tracking of both solar panel assemblies from east to west and back by extending or retracting a telescopic arm, wherein each main support shaft is only connected to one drive unit, the entire arrangement is supported by piledriven profiles and each drive unit is connected to a piledriven profile and the mounting plates of the two main support receptacles supported on this piledriven profile. | 01-29-2015 |
| 20150034143 | ASSEMBLY FOR CONVERTING SOLAR RADIATION INTO ELECTRIC AND/OR THERMAL ENERGY - A system or device for concentrating the light radiation of the type to be used for converting the solar radiation into electric current and/or thermal energy is disclosed. The device mainly having a primary optics apt to be exposed to the solar radiation and to allow the passage thereof therethrough, the primary optics being positioned on a hollow spacer member, which is perfectly aligned and at the same time locked, by means of a joint member. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150034144 | Power Conversion Module for Use With Optical Energy Transfer and Conversion System - A power conversion system for converting optical energy received from a fiber optic line to electrical energy, the system comprises a housing, a heat sink within the housing, a high power connector coupled to the line and having an end positioned within the housing, beam forming optics within the interior space positioned proximal to the connector, and a partially spherical end array and annular arrays of photovoltaic chips. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150040963 | SOLAR POWER GENERATION METHOD & APPARATUS - A solar power generation apparatus includes a stationary horizontal base. A stator is housed in the base, and a vertical column extends upward from the base. A conical-shaped rotor is rotatingly coupled at its apex to the column, while its base is near the stator. The rotor comprises an array of photovoltaic cells positioned on a surface of the rotor, wherein each cell converts light energy received from a light source to a direct current voltage, and an array of magnets positioned at a perimeter of the base of the rotor, wherein the magnets are electrically coupled to and receive direct current voltage from a respective cell. The rotating of the rotor past the stator converts the direct current voltage present at the array of magnets into an alternating current voltage. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150040964 | SELF-POWERED LIGHT-SEEKING APPARATUS AND PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS WITH LIGHT CONCENTRATING MEANS - A self-powered light seeking apparatus and method for directing a target-plane towards a light source. The apparatus includes a photovoltaic powering arrangement configured to convert light energy into a driving current to power an actuator. The actuator is coupled to a support platform and is wired to the photovoltaic powering arrangement such that the polarity of the driving current causes the actuator to drive the target-plane towards alignment with the light source. A solar energy collection system including a photoelectric assembly for generating electricity from light incident upon an active area; a light concentrator comprising a substantially planar reflective surface subtending an angle to the active area such that light arriving along a line perpendicular to the active area and striking the reflective surface is reflected onto the active area; and a cooling unit configured to maintain the photoelectric assembly at an efficient operating temperature. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150040965 | Ground Mount Structure With Mounting Assemblies And Central Quick-Mount Rail - A solar array having three rails with the central rail having upward and downward facing pivot connectors, with top and bottom photovoltaic modules being pivot mounted onto the shared central rail such that the two photovoltaic modules are supported by three mounting rails. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150053253 | Fresnel Lens Solar Concentrator Configured to Focus Sunlight at Large Longitudinal Incidence Angles onto an Articulating Energy Receiver - This invention includes a Fresnel lens assembly positioned relative to an energy receiver, onto which the lens assembly focuses sunlight for collection and conversion. The Fresnel lens assembly includes a thin polymeric film with prisms molded into or attached to the film. This invention also includes an articulating energy receiver which can move closer to or farther away from the lens depending on the longitudinal angle of incidence of the sunlight relative to the lens, to maintain the best focus of sunlight on the energy receiver. The prisms in the present lens are specified to provide acceptable optical performance in the presence of relatively large longitudinal solar incidence angles, relatively smaller lateral solar incidence angles, in combination with the articulating energy receiver. The new lens assembly can further be deployed and supported as a thin flexible stretched membrane with tension maintaining the lens in proper position on orbit. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150053254 | LIGHT CONCENTRATOR STRUCTURES AND METHODS - An arrangement utilizes diffractive, reflective and/or refractive optical elements combined to intensify and homogenize electromagnetic energy, such as natural sunlight in the terrestrial environment, for purposes such as irradiating a target area with concentrated homogenized energy. A heat activated safety mechanism is also described. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150053255 | AIRBORNE PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR DEVICE AND METHOD - An airborne photovoltaic solar system, comprising a parabolic reflector-concentrator ( | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150059826 | Bearing for Solar Panel Tracking System - A solar panel array system has posts for mounting vertically in earth along a Z-axis. A torque tube extends along an X-axis at upper ends of the posts for supporting and pivoting solar panels to track the sun. A bearing saddle base has a downward-facing surface that is placed on an upward-facing surface of the post. Lugs and slots on the upward-facing and downward-facing surfaces are positioned so that rotating the base about the Z-axis causes the lugs to enter the slots. A bearing saddle cradle is adjustably mounted to the base at selected pitch angles relative to the base. The base is rotatable about the Z-axis to various positions either centered or placing the X-axis at a yaw angle relative to the post. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150059827 | Torque Tube for Solar Panel System - A solar panel array system has a torque tube supported on upper ends of vertical posts. The torque tube has an octagonal exterior surface and an octagonal interior surface corresponding with the exterior surface. The octagonal exterior surface defines at least one flat datum surface for mounting a photo-voltaic panel. A weld seam extends along the exterior surface parallel with the longitudinal axis. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150059828 | MODULAR, SELF SUPPORTING EXTERIOR ENCLOSURE SYSTEM WITH INSULATING, EVACUATED TUBES HAVING SOLAR COLLECTOR RODS - A tubular building enclosure system with thermally-broken modules having evacuated air spaces assembled in rows and/or columns to form a structurally self-supporting, thermally insulating, and solar energy collecting facade. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150059829 | SOLAR CELL MODULE, SOLAR CELL AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A solar cell module includes: adjacent solar cells; and a wiring member electrically connects the adjacent solar cells to each other with resin adhesive. Each solar cell includes: a photoelectric conversion body: a finger electrode provided on a principal surface of the photoelectric conversion body; and an adhesion assistance portion provided at a position where the wiring member overlaps with a photoelectric conversion body when being electrically connected to the solar cell with the resin adhesive, the adhesion assistance portion containing an inorganic particle other than a conductive particle contained in the finger electrode. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150059830 | Method For Manufacturing Photovoltaic Cells With Multiple Junctions And Multiple Electrodes - A photovoltaic device and method of manufacture of a photovoltaic device including an assembly of at least two photovoltaic cells; and a lamination material inserted between each photovoltaic cell, each photovoltaic cell including: two current output terminals; at least one photovoltaic junction; current collection buses; and connection strips extending from the current collection buses to the current output terminals, all the current output terminals being placed on a single surface of the photovoltaic device is provided. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150059831 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module includes multiple rectangular solar cells each with chamfered corner portions, wiring members each electrically connecting adjacent ones of the solar cells to each other, and a protective member on a light-receiving surface side of the solar cells. The solar cells are arranged in matrix with spaces therebetween. The wiring member has a reflective surface in a region surrounded by the corner portions of the multiple solar cells. The reflective surface reflects light entering from the light-receiving surface side toward the protective member. | 03-05-2015 |
| 20150068583 | SOLAR MODULE STRUCTURES AND ASSEMBLY METHODS FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL THIN-FILM SOLAR CELLS - Solar module structures | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150068584 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM WITH MICRO-CONCENTRATOR ARRAY - A photovoltaic system is described herein. The photovoltaic system includes an array of micro-concentrators. Each micro-concentrator includes an exterior lens, an interior lens, and a transparent layer that is between the exterior lens and the interior lens. The array of micro-concentrators is optically aligned with an array of photovoltaic cells. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150068585 | Capturing Reflected Solar EMR Energy - Surfaces containing conversion elements may be positioned and shaped to concentrate or manipulate convergence of sunlight, for example, to produce a steady reflected beam within a wide range of concentration levels and to direct reflected beams for multiple reflections from solar power conversion mediums. The mediums can be positioned to avoid blocking reflected or other light so that unconverted energy may be directed to other surfaces and has several chances to be absorbed or converted. All of the devices may fit within the total converting surface area, e.g., within a concentrator's surface area. The method of solar power conversion may employ active and passive methods simultaneously and/or sequentially. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150068586 | Array of Photovoltaic Cells - A solar energy harvesting and storage system is disclosed having a dual-sided lithographically integrated light-to-electrical energy converter. The integrated light-to-electrical energy converter has at least one array of photovoltaic, cells having an array of optoelectronic components, each of which have a compound optical structure that spatially separates light into multiple wavelengths and a P/N junction having a gradient of semiconductor materials and/or dopants responsive to a narrow band of wavelengths. A common electrode connects the optoelectronic components and the common electrode is electrically connected to at least one integrated DC to AC inverter. Also disclosed is a dual-axis solar tracking system upon which the dual-sided lithographically integrated light-to-electrical energy converter is mounted. The dual-axis solar tracking system has two stages of tracking mounts, each tracking mount has a plurality of leaf-springs in a vertical arrangement. The leaf springs have differential coefficients of expansion and contraction so that each tracking mount tracks a solar light source in an orthogonal direction from the other tracking mount. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150075584 | TECHNIQUES FOR MONITORING SOLAR ARRAY PERFORMANCE AND APPLICATIONS THEREOF - An automated method to monitor performance of a terrestrial solar cell array tracking the sun. The solar cell system includes drive means that adjust a position of the array along different respective axes with respect to the sun using the drive means. The techniques include predicting the position of the sun during a time period, and sampling an output parameter of the array indicative of performance. The sampled data may be used to identify a fault in the solar cell array, for example a misalignment or a failure of one or more solar cells, in which case a notification of that fault may be generated for the operator or a control signal may be output for correcting the fault. Alternatively, an output signal may be sent to an external system associated with the solar cell system. Various alignment testing routines for checking the solar tracking are described. These routines may involve moving a solar cell array to a reference position at the start of, or during, an alignment routine in order to improve accuracy of position measurement during the routine. | 03-19-2015 |
| 20150075585 | PHOTO-ELECTRIC DEVICE - A photo-electric device including a photoelectric conversion layer and a plurality of electrodes is provided. The photoelectric conversion layer includes a plurality of inversed pyramid shaped recesses and a plurality of a pyramids, wherein each of the inversed pyramid shaped recesses has at least three first reflection sidewalls, each of the pyramids is located in one of the inversed pyramid shaped recesses respectively, each of the pyramids has at least three second reflection sidewalls, and none of the first reflection sidewall and the second reflection sidewall is located in a same plane. The electrodes are electrically connected to the photoelectric conversion layer. | 03-19-2015 |
| 20150083192 | SOLAR CELL AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SAME - This solar cell has: a substrate having a board-like base, and a first conductive line and a second conductive line, which are disposed on the board-like base; a plurality of multi-junction solar cells, each of which has a lower electrode bonded on and electrically connected to the first conductive line, a cell laminate, which is disposed on the lower electrode, and which includes a bottom cell layer and a top cell layer, a transparent electrode disposed on the upper surface of the top cell layer, and a conductor that connects the transparent electrode to the second conductive line; a glass plate, which has upper portions of the transparent electrodes of the multi-junction solar cells bonded to one surface thereof using an adhesive; and collecting lens, which is disposed on the other glass plate surface with a transparent adhesive therebetween. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150083193 | SECONDARY LENS, PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL MOUNTING BODY, CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION UNIT, AND CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION MODULE - A secondary lens includes a first face on which a concentrated light beam output from a concentrating lens is incident and a second face from which the concentrated light beam output from the concentrating lens is output to a photovoltaic cell. The secondary lens guides incident light to the photovoltaic cell through an optical refractive face provided on the first face. A cross-sectional area of the first face in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis (Ax) of the concentrated light beam monotonically increases as the cross-sectional area approaches from a side of the first face closer to the concentrating lens to a side of the first face closer to the photovoltaic cell. At least one point of inflection at which an angle of inclination (θ) of the first face with respect to a plane perpendicular to the optical axis decreases as the angle of inclination (θ) approaches from the side of the first face closer to the concentrating lens to the side of the first face closer to the photovoltaic cell is provided. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150090316 | TRACKING-TYPE PHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATOR - The present invention relates to a tracking-type photovoltaic generator. More particularly, the present invention relates to a tracking-type photovoltaic generator in which multiple solar modules are aligned into one or more rows so as to form a group, and the solar modules of the group aligned in the same row may rotate according to the location of the sun by means of the operation of a linear actuator. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150101652 | LIGHT GUIDE APPARATUS AND FABRICATION METHOD THEREOF - A light guide apparatus that can redirect light impinging on the apparatus over a wide range of incident angles and can concentrate light without using a tracking system and methods for fabrication. | 04-16-2015 |
| 20150107648 | LIGHT CONVERTER - A light converter for the photovoltaic conversion of light, having a support, a first semiconductor body, and a second semiconductor body. A first surface and a second surface are designed as receiving surfaces for light. An electrically conductive connector having a first arm and a second arm is provided, and the first arm is arranged on the first surface and interconnected with the first surface, and the second arm is arranged below the second rear surface and interconnected with the second rear surface. The second arm is at least partially embedded in a conductive material, the conductive material being arranged between the second rear surface and a second conductive track, and the second conductive track is formed as part of the support. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150107649 | Light Deflecting Layer For Photovoltaic Solar Panels - A solar panel includes a solar cell assembly formed of at least two solar cells arranged adjacent to one another, the cells each having a solar-facing surface, a gap area between them and patterned with busbars on their solar-facing surface. The solar-facing surface includes active regions and inactive regions and is covered by a layer of transparent material having an inner side and an outer side, the inner side disposed adjacent to the solar facing surface of the assembly and the outer side defining an outer surface of the panel. At least one optical member is disposed on the outer side of the layer and configured to substantially cover at least a portion of the inactive regions of the solar-facing surface and to deflect solar radiation impinging upon the optical member away from the inactive regions and onto the active regions of the solar-facing surface of the cell. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150107650 | MONOLITHIC BROADBAND ENERGY COLLECTOR WITH DETECTOR POSITION DEPENDING ON WAVELENGTH - A solar energy collector includes a prism coupled waveguide and a cladding material layer coextensive with the waveguide core. Photovoltaics (PVs) are disposed within the cladding layer, with the PVs active in at least two wavelength ranges. The PVs are further spaced apart depending upon their active wavelength range. The cladding layer may include two or more material layers of at least two different dielectric constants. In that arrangement, the PVs are further grouped such that the PVs disposed in a first one of the cladding layers has a different active wavelength range than an active wavelength range of the PVs disposed in a second cladding layer. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150114450 | INTELLIGENT & SELF-CLEANING SOLAR PANELS - The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for levitating and conveying sand, dust or melting snow deposits off the surface of objects, in particular solar panels, mirrors, glass objects and the like. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150122306 | SYSTEM FOR PREVENTING CONDENSATION PHENOMENA IN A GROUP OF CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS - The system for preventing condensation phenomena in a group of concentration photovoltaic panels comprises ventilator means ( | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150122307 | HIGH-CONCENTRATION PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL - The high-concentration photovoltaic panel ( | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150122308 | Calibration System for Solar Collector Installation - A solar concentrator calibration tool that compensates for inconsistencies in the fabrication, assembly and installation of a solar collector system, permits the solar collector to perform optimally. The calibration tool provides feedback information to a supervisory control processor, allowing the processor to compare the expected position of the sun to the “actual” position found by the calibration tool. The processor then generates a calibration signal, thereafter used by the collector's movement control mechanism, to compensate the tracking of the solar collector to accurately follow the movement of the sun, unconstrained by the effects of the construction inconsistencies. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150129015 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module comprises a solar cell and sealing material provided on the rear surface side of the solar cell. The sealing material includes a colored layer that reflects light from the light-receiving surface side of the solar cell, and a transparent layer that is provided between the colored layer and the solar cell. The transparent layer has, in a space between adjacent solar cells, a side surface raised along the rear surface-side corner portion of the solar cell. | 05-14-2015 |
| 20150136201 | DEVICE FOR REGULATING THE LEVEL OF MOISTURE IN A CONCENTRATING SOLAR MODULE AND SOLAR MODULE COMPRISING AT LEAEST ONE SUCH DEVICE - A concentrating solar module comprising a device (D) for managing the moisture contained in a casing ( | 05-21-2015 |
| 20150144178 | SOLAR PANEL UNIT, SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - In a solar panel unit including: a pedestal that includes a support supporting a rotation shaft fixed to a solar panel and is fixed to the ground; and a drive mechanism that rotates the solar panel about the axis of the rotation shaft in accordance with the direction of the sun, the pedestal is a stake having an upper end provided with the support and a lower end to be buried in the ground, and the depth to which the stake is pushed is adjusted. Thus, the heights of the pedestal can be adjusted. In this manner, the solar panel unit can be easily placed at an accurate position without ground leveling, and a plurality of link mechanisms can be easily joined together. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150295099 | HIGH WORK-FUNCTION BUFFER LAYERS FOR SILICON-BASED PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES - Embodiments of the invention generally provide a silicon-based photovoltaic (PV) device containing a high work-function (HWF) buffer layer disposed between a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer and a p-type silicon-based layer of a p-i-n junction. The PV device generally has a transparent substrate, a first TCO layer disposed on the transparent substrate, a HWF buffer layer disposed on the first TCO layer, a p-i-n junction disposed on the high work-function buffer layer, a second TCO layer disposed on the n-type silicon-based layer, and a metallic reflective layer disposed on the second TCO layer. The p-i-n junction contains an intrinsic layer disposed between a p-type silicon-based layer and an n-type silicon-based layer, and the p-type silicon-based layer is in contact with the HWF buffer layer. | 10-15-2015 |
| 20150295109 | SOLAR CELL APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SAME - Disclosed is a solar cell apparatus wherein contamination of solar cells is suppressed and a power generation quantity of the solar cells is maintained for a long period of time, even if the solar cell apparatus is disposed outside. The apparatus is provided with: a light transmitting plastic material; a light transmitting back sheet; a plurality of bifacial solar cells that are electrically connected to each other by means of interconnectors; and a transparent filled resin that surrounds the solar cells. The light transmitting plastic material has a curved surface, and capable of constituting a hermetically closed space by being fixed to a disposition region of a body having the solar cell apparatus disposed thereon, and the light transmitting back sheet, the solar cells, and the transparent filled resin are disposed in the hermetically closed space. | 10-15-2015 |
| 20150295113 | CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM MODULES USING III-V SEMICONDUCTOR SOLAR CELLS - A solar cell receiver for use in a concentrating solar system which concentrates the solar energy onto a solar cell for converting solar energy to electricity. The solar cell receiver may include a solar cell mounted on a support and with one or more III-V compound semiconductor layers. An optical element may be positioned over the solar cell and have an optical channel with an inlet that faces away from the solar cell and an outlet that faces towards the solar cell. A frame may be positioned over the support and extend around the solar cell with the frame having an inner side that extends above the support and faces towards the optical element. An encapsulant may be positioned over the support and contained between the optical element and the frame. The encapsulant may have enlarged heights at contact points with the optical element and the frame and a reduced height between the contact points away from the optical element and the frame. The solar cell receiver may be used in a solar cell module. | 10-15-2015 |
| 20150303864 | GUIDE SYSTEM FOR SOLAR PANELS - The disclosure relates to a guide system for holding and moving sunlight-absorbing devices, in particular, solar panels or concentrated photovoltaic modules, about an azimuth axis and an elevation axis, comprising a housing, at least one azimuth drive, at least one azimuth gear unit, the azimuth drive being configured for driving the azimuth gear unit for a rotational movement about the azimuth axis, at least one elevation drive, at least one elevation gear unit, the elevation drive being configured for driving the elevation gear unit for a rotational movement about the elevation axis, and wherein the elevation gear unit is connected to a first end of a torsion tube, and the torsion tube is turnably mounted inside the housing along the elevation axis, wherein the torsion tube is supported by at least two bearings, preferably one at each end of the torsion tube, and wherein the second end of the torsion tube is configured to receive and connect to a support arm for carrying/supporting one or more of the sunlight-absorbing devices, and the torsion tube further being configured to transmit torque from the elevation gear unit to the support arm. | 10-22-2015 |
| 20150303866 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR CELL MODULE PANEL HAVING STIFFNESS AND CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATION SYSTEM COMPRISING SAME - Disclosed is a concentrated photovoltaic module including a heat pipe. The concentrated photovoltaic module includes: a frame that is configured to have a side surface plate and a lower plate; a carrier which is provided with the solar cell; a lens plate that is provided on the frame to concentrate incident light into the solar cell; a carrier frame that is provided on the lower plate, a plurality of the carriers being provided thereon at predetermined intervals; a wire which connects the carriers with each other; and a wire cover that is provided in the lower plate to cover the wire and is coupled with the lower plate in a state in which the carrier frame is fixed. | 10-22-2015 |
| 20150303867 | SOLAR GENERATOR WITH LARGE REFLECTOR DISHES AND CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS IN FLAT ARRAYS - An apparatus is disclosed for generation of electricity using sunlight focused onto multi junction photovoltaic cells having high conversion efficiency. The apparatus includes a large paraboloidal mirror of back-silvered glass, turned to the sun throughout the day, so as to provide an intense focus. Multiple photovoltaic cells are provided at the focus. The optics are configured to distribute sunlight without significant loss into separate regions matched to the photovoltaic cell size. A secondary optical system takes strongly focused sunlight near the focus of a single paraboloidal mirror and distributes it equally between the cells, and regions of equally concentrated sunlight are matched to cell size and are substantially co-planar, so that the cells may be grouped on flat circuit cards. | 10-22-2015 |
| 20150311373 | DISPLAY DEVICE WITH PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS INTEGRATED INTO THE SCREEN AND IMPROVED SCREEN LUMINOSITY AND REFLECTIVITY - A display device comprising at least: (a) a plurality of photovoltaic active areas and a plurality of holes, two neighboring photovoltaic active areas forming an opening; (b) one or more artificial light sources; (c) a plurality of light concentrators and reflective opaque disposed between said light sources and said photovoltaic active areas. This device wherein said hubs of light are arranged so that the light emitted from artificial light sources is directed by the light concentrators through the holes. | 10-29-2015 |
| 20150311857 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR PANEL WITH INTEGRATED TRACKER - The present invention is an integrated sun tracking and concentrating solar panel that uses compact optical elements to track the sun and concentrate its sunlight to one or more energy conversion devices that are collocated on the solar panel. The invention eliminates the need for large mechanical solar trackers while also substantially increasing the efficiency of land use for arrays of solar panels. | 10-29-2015 |
| 20150311858 | Solar Collector and Conversion Array - A solar array for collecting sunlight that is converted into electricity. The array includes an arrangement of solar collectors strategically positioned on a frame to maximize the amount of sunlight collected in relation to the size of the array. The collectors are plate like members with a reflective side and shaped so that sunlight collected by the reflective side is concentrated at a location away from the reflective side. The collectors are recumbently positioned in rows with their respective reflective sides directed away from the array frame. The collectors are spaced apart so that no collector casts shade on any part of another collector and substantially no sunlight between adjacent collectors. | 10-29-2015 |
| 20150311860 | MULTI-ORTHOGONAL PHOTONIC ENERGY COLLECTION SYSTEM - A method of energy collection using a set of collecting manifolds or surfaces such as solar cells immersed into a refracting matrix. The combination of the surfaces and matrix into a module forms the system. | 10-29-2015 |
| 20150318424 | Solar panel enclosure unit - A solar energy enclosure unit having a housing defining a central cavity in which there is located a turntable upon which is mounted a solar panel; the turntable and solar panel rotated at low revolutions per minute by an associated electric motor, the enclosure having a convex transparent dome covering the solar panel, the transparent convex dome having prismatic facets formed thereon for magnifying, concentrating, and focusing solar rays onto the solar panel regardless of the position of the sun, in the sky, relative to the housing. | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150318818 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION SYSTEM - 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. | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150318821 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC ASSEMBLY - A concentrator photovoltaic module that has a secondary optical element that has alignment features that cooperate with alignment feature of a solar cell assembly to self-align the secondary optical element with the solar cell. The secondary optical element is secured directly to the backplate or to the solar cell assembly. The secondary optical element is spaced-apart from the solar cell, which avoids shear stress between the secondary optical element and the solar cell. | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150325732 | SOLAR COLLECTOR - The present invention relates to a solar collector or a light collector by means of which light, generally sunlight, can be directed onto an energy conversion unit. In particular, it relates to a light collector ( | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150325733 | GRID DESIGN FOR III-V COMPOUND SEMICONDUCTOR CELL - A photovoltaic solar cell for producing energy from the sun including a germanium substrate including a first photoactive junction and forming a bottom solar subcell; a gallium arsenide middle cell disposed on said substrate; an indium gallium phosphide top cell disposed over the middle cell; and a surface grid including a plurality of spaced apart grid lines, wherein the grid lines have a thickness greater than 7 microns, and each grid line has a cross-section in the shape of a trapezoid with a cross-sectional area between 45 and 55 square microns. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150325734 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS WITH INTERMITTENT AND CONTINUOUS RECYCLING OF LIGHT - The one or more embodiments of the present invention propose a novel photovoltaic system. The system can include a housing and at least one layer of photovoltaic panels inside the housing. Photovoltaic cells can be arranged on the panel. Light is reflected in many ways and recycled within the housing either continuously or intermittently. This can reduce the loss of light energy back into the atmosphere due to reflections from the panel and can also improve the working efficiency of the photovoltaic cells by creating multiple passes for the light either continuously or intermittently. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150326173 | SOLAR POWER GENERATION APPARATUS WITH NON-EQUIDIRECTIONAL SOLAR TRACKING STAGES - A solar power generation apparatus with non-equidirectional solar tracking stages. At the beginning of sunrise, a solar power generation module is driven by a link assembly to gradually rotate from an initial position to the sun in a direction reverse to the moving direction of the sun. After the solar power generation module is rotated to a position of first preset elevation and azimuth, where the solar power generation module right faces the sun, the solar power generation module starts pivotally rotating along with the change of the position of the sun. When the sun and the direction of the solar power generation module synchronously move to a position of second preset elevation and azimuth, the solar power generation module is further driven to gradually pivotally rotate back to the initial position in a direction reverse to the moving direction of the sun for next cycle. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150326175 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF ROOFTOP SOLAR ENERGY PRODUCTION - A system and method of producing electrical energy using an underlying reflective surface having emissive properties and one or more bifacial solar panels arranged such that a first face of the solar panel receives primarily direct sunlight and a second face of the solar panel receives primarily indirect sunlight reflected from the underlying reflective surface. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150326176 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF ROOFTOP SOLAR ENERGY PRODUCTION - A system and method of producing electrical energy using an underlying reflective surface having emissive properties and one or more bifacial solar panels arranged such that a first face of the solar panel receives primarily direct sunlight and a second face of the solar panel receives primarily indirect sunlight reflected from the underlying reflective surface. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150340988 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM; SEMICONDUCTOR INTEGRATED CIRCUIT, TRACKING DEVIATION DETECTION PROGRAM, AND TRACKING DEVIATION CORRECTION PROGRAM TO BE USED IN THE CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM, AND TRACKING DEVIATION DETECTION METHOD AND TRACKING DEVIATION CORRECTION METHOD - This concentrator photovoltaic system includes: a concentrator photovoltaic panel; a driving device configured to cause the concentrator photovoltaic panel to perform periodical tracking operation with respect to the sun in two axes of azimuth and elevation; a measurement section configured to detect generated power or generated current as an amount of generated electricity of the concentrator photovoltaic panel; and a control section configured to obtain, when the driving device has caused the concentrator photovoltaic panel to perform tracking operation in either one of the two axes, a change in the amount of generated electricity of the concentrator photovoltaic panel before and after the tracking operation, the control section configured to determine presence/absence of tracking deviation that should be corrected, based on the change. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150349177 | FLUID COOLED INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A fluid cooled photovoltaic module in which a polymer heat exchanger transfers heat from the photovoltaic module to a circulated fluid. The photovoltaic module is maintained at a cool temperature enabling increased power output while the heat transferred to the circulated fluid can be useful for applications that require heat. A polymer heat exchanger is specifically utilized to achieve a robust design that is cost effective; high performance; easily adaptable to various photovoltaic module types and sizes; compatible with conventional photovoltaic module balance of systems; light weight; resistant to water sanitizers and other chemicals; resistant to lime-scale buildup and heat exchanger fouling; corrosion resistant; easily transported, assembled, installed, and maintained; and leverages high production manufacturing methods. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150349699 | Modular Solar Mobile Generator - A mobile solar generator for autonomous and continuous supply of electricity in a transportable automatically or semi-automatically unfolding/folding system. The mobile solar generator generally includes photovoltaic modules, energy storage (lithium ion batteries), power converters, and a mechanical system to fold/unfold the photovoltaic modules. The mobile solar generator may also optionally include a detachable trailer. The mobile solar generator typically has the ability to provide alternating current at a voltage of 120 or 230V single-phase or three-phase 400 V/460V 50 or 60 HZ. Electricity is generally provided by 12, 16 or 24 photovoltaic modules 347 W depending on the version of the product is typically a photovoltaic power 4, 5, or 8 KWp. The mobile solar generator can preferably be folded on itself for shipping purposes. The SMG can also include skids for water treatment or other skids which use the power generated by the SMG. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150357498 | VOLTAGE SOURCE GENERATOR AND VOLTAGE SOURCE MODULE - A voltage source generator includes a light-transmissive component and a plurality of vertical multi junction (VMJ) cells. The light-transmissive component includes an inner space. The VMJ cells are disposed within the inner space of the light-transmissive component to receive light and perform light-to-electricity conversion. The VMJ cells are connected in series. The voltage source generator can generate a kV-level voltage and meet small-sized and low-cost demands. A voltage source module includes at least two voltage source generators connected to at least one electrical connector. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150357969 | COOLING METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR PANELS - The present invention relates to a cooling system and method for photovoltaic solar panels. The cooling system and method allow reducing the temperature of the outer surface of photovoltaic solar panels, hereinafter PV panels ( | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150372157 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - An embodiment of a solar cell module is provided, comprising solar cell strings arranged side by side in a widthwise direction, each of the solar cell strings including solar cells arranged side by side in a lengthwise direction, and a wiring member electrically connecting at least some of the solar cells to each other, an interconnection wiring member electrically connecting at least some of the solar cell strings to each other, and a reflective filler member provided on back surface sides of the solar cell strings. Each of the solar cells includes a busbar electrode extending in the lengthwise direction, and a distance between the solar cells in each of the solar cell strings is larger than a distance between the solar cell strings. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150372636 | Tracking Photovoltaic Solar System, and Methods for Installing or for Using Such Tracking Photovoltaic Solar System - A tracking photovoltaic solar system, and methods for installing or for using such tracking comprising at least a dual axis tracker unit maintaining an array of photovoltaic modules aligned to the sun. Said tracker unit includes: a pair of sub-frames supporting photovoltaic modules, a torque tube supporting said subframes rotating around a primary rotation axis, a pole structure fixed and extending vertically above an anchoring basis and being rotatively connected to said longitudinal support, secondary rotating means controlling the orientation of said sub-frames around corresponding secondary rotation axis of said sub-frames, said secondary rotation axis being orthogonal to said primary rotation axis and actuators means for controlling said primary and secondary rotating means. The secondary rotation axis are located at each end of said torque tube, said pole structure being central with regard to said sub-frames and said actuators means of both primary and secondary rotating means are linear. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20160005904 | SOLAR CELL PANEL - A solar cell panel is discussed. The solar cell panel includes a plurality of solar cells each including a substrate and an electrode part positioned on a surface of the substrate, an interconnector for electrically connecting at least one of the plurality of solar cells to another of the plurality of solar cells, and a conductive adhesive film including a resin and a plurality of conductive particles dispersed in the resin. The conductive adhesive film is positioned between the electrode part of the at least one of the plurality of solar cells and the interconnector to electrically connect the electrode part of the at least one of the plurality of solar cells to the interconnector. A width of the interconnector is equal to or greater than a width of the conductive adhesive film. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160005906 | Optoelectronic Thermal Interfaces for 3-Dimensional Billet Devices, Including Vertical Multijunction Photovoltaic Receivers Using Heat Sinked Anode/Billet/Cathode For High Intensity Beaming and Wireless Power Transmission - Thermal, electrical and/or optical interfacing for three-dimensional optoelectronic devices, such as semiconductor device billets, allows high intensity operation, such as for receiving and transducing extremely high intensity light shined onto a small surface semiconductor optoelectronic device such as a photovoltaic receiver or cell, transducer, waveguide or splitter. This allows high intensity energy transfer for beam receiving, signal acquisition, and beam or signal generation for high intensity power beaming and wireless power transmission. Preferred embodiments include three-dimensional photovoltaic receiver billets capable of receiving thousands of suns intensity or high intensity laser light for power conversion, such as by using edge-illuminated vertical multijunction photovoltaic receivers. Heat sink holding structures assist in thermal and electromagnetic communication with opposing billet surfaces. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160005907 | OPTICAL ENERGY TRANSMISSION SYSTEM - An optical energy transmission system having an energy-emitting unit is provided. The energy-emitting unit has a laser radiation source for generating an energy-transmitting laser beam and an aiming device for aligning the energy-transmitting laser beam relative to an energy-receiving unit which includes an optical/electrical converter, which converts the energy of the energy-transmitting laser beam into electrical energy. The converter has at least one converter element having a plurality of surfaces which reflect the energy-transmitting laser beam and which are arranged relative to one another such that the impinging energy-transmitting laser beam is deflected by one of the reflective surfaces to another one of the reflective surfaces. At least some of the reflective surfaces are formed by a conversion unit which reflects one part of the impinging laser beam and absorbs the other part thereof in a photovoltaic element, and in the process converts the optical energy into electrical energy. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160005908 | BEAM SPLITTING OF SOLAR LIGHT BY REFLECTIVE FILTERS - A photovoltaic system is described that improves energy efficiency (conversion of solar energy to electrical energy) by beam-splitting, via reflective filters, the incident solar light into a reflective portion and an exit portion. The reflective portion and the exit portion are directed to respective photovoltaic cells that convert the incident light energy into electrical energy. The concentrated solar light is collimated then split via reflective filters saving on the reflective filter area and reducing overall bulkiness of the beam-splitting system. Further, a cascade of multiple filters is used to split either the reflected spectra or the exit spectra of solar light. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160013346 | REPLACEABLE SOLAR BULB ASSEMBLY FOR USE WITH A SOLAR RECEIVER ARRAY | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160013347 | Solar Cell Array | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160013751 | SOLAR FACILITY WITH A PLURALITY OF IN-LINE TRACKER SUPPORT SYSTEMS | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160013752 | MIRROR SYSTEM FOR CONSIDERABLY INCREASING THE PRODUCTIVITY OF PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER PLANTS | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160020348 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE COMPRISING A CONCENTRATION OPTIC WITH SUBWAVELENGTH PATTERNS AND SOLAR GENERATOR FOR SATELLITE COMPRISING SAID MODULE - A photovoltaic module comprises at least one photovoltaic cell and one concentration optic device, to be illuminated by a light flux emitting at at least one illumination wavelength belonging to a band of wavelengths defined by a minimum wavelength and a maximum wavelength, the band of wavelengths being that of the solar radiation of the order of [380 nm-1600 nm]. The concentration optic device is a monolithic component and comprises at least one diffractive structure comprising subwavelength patterns, defined in a structured material; the patterns having at least one dimension less than or equal to the average illumination wavelength divided by the refractive index of the structured material; the patterns being separated from one another by subwavelength distances, defined between centres of adjacent patterns; the concentration optic device ensuring at least one focusing function and one diffraction function. A solar panel comprising the photovoltaic module is also provided. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160020723 | SOLAR PANEL UNIT AND SOLAR POWER GENERATION APPARATUS - A second panel and a third panel are disposed on both sides of a first panel in the width direction, a fourth panel is disposed at a position symmetrical with the first panel with respect to the second panel and third panel, the respective panels have the same length and are disposed parallel to each other, and a step is provided with a gap between the first panel and the second panel or the third panel, and between the fourth panel and the second panel or the third panel. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160020724 | SOLAR TRACKER ASSEMBLY - The disclosure relates to a solar tracker assembly, particularly for solar collectors, with a table structure for supporting the solar collectors, particularly solar collector panels and/or solar collector assemblies, and with an assembly for carrying the table structure, wherein the table structure is rotatable relative to the assembly base at least about one axis of rotation. For allowing the table for supporting respective solar panels to have sufficiently large dimensions in order to accommodate an increased number of solar collectors in an easy way and, at the same time, to enable the table to be positioned at a precise angle with reduced effort, it is suggested that at least a portion of the table structure and/or a portion of the assembly base is formed as a truss structure. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160020725 | SUN-TRACKING PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION SYSTEM - A sun-tracking photovoltaic power generation system with a rotating a base having a plurality of photovoltaic power generation panels loaded thereon closely to each other following changes in the solar azimuth angle. A plurality of rails are concentrically laid on an undersurface of the base and wheels are provided to a stand closer to the ground. As a result, it is easier to support the wheels on the same horizontal plane than laying the rails horizontally on a large installation space. Therefore, the construction cost can be reduced and the construction period can be shortened, thereby achieving a large sun-tracking photovoltaic power generation system. Also, because the base is concentrically reinforced by the plurality of rails, the base can be formed by combining, for example, metal L angles, so that a base with a large area can be made light weight at a low cost. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160027943 | CONCENTRATING PHOTOVOLTAIC SKYLIGHT BASED ON HOLOGRAMS AND/OR METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - Improved building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems according to certain example embodiments may include concentrated photovoltaic skylights or other windows in which holographic optical elements (HOEs) are provided. The HOEs are formed on or in a substantially planar glass substrate, e.g., at light coupling locations, and they help form a holographic projection of light in a desired wavelength range on a photovoltaic module. The photovoltaic module may, for example, be connected to an outer edge of the substrate in certain example embodiments. Holographically projected light may propagate through the substrate in accordance with the principles of total internal reflection (TIR), which may be somewhat lossy in some cases. A lens provided between the light source (e.g., the sun) may help re-orient the light in a desired direction so as to improve the efficiency of the HOEs. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160027944 | ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS OF BUILDING INTEGRABLE PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - Provided are novel building integrable photovoltaic (BIP) modules and methods of fabricating thereof. A module may be fabricated from an insert having one or more photovoltaic cells by electrically interconnecting and mechanically integrating one or more connectors with the insert. Each connector may have one or more conductive elements, such as metal sockets and/or pins. At least two of all conductive elements are electrically connected to the photovoltaic cells using, for example, bus bars. These and other electrical components are electrically insulated using a temperature resistant material having a Relative Temperature Index (RTI) of at least about 115° C. The insulation may be provided before or during module fabrication by, for example, providing a prefabricated insulating housing and/or injection molding the temperature resistant material. The temperature resistant material and/or other materials may be used for mechanical integration of the one or more connectors with the insert. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160027949 | BLACK BODY INFRARED ANTENNA ARRAY - A solar antenna array may comprise an emitter that may convert visible light into black body infrared radiation, and an array of antennas that may capture and convert the black body radiation into electrical power. Methods for constructing the solar antenna array may include using thermal insulation, high-gain low-e glass, and gasses with minimal heat transfer. A black body infrared antenna array may augment the electrical power from a visible light antenna array by converting its waste heat into additional electrical power. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160035918 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL THIN-FILM SOLAR CELLS - A three-dimensional thin-film solar cell | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160049902 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING THE TEMPERATURE OF PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS - A method for the thermal regulation of photovoltaic panels exposed to the wind and comprising a plurality of devices for the spraying of a cooling liquid suitable for spraying the liquid onto the photovoltaic panels, the method being characterized in that it comprises the steps consisting in:
| 02-18-2016 |
| 20160056316 | Three Dimensional Photovoltaic Module - A three dimensional photovoltaic module that allows for the absorption of solar energy from various angles in a three hundred sixty degree arrangement has a base panel unit and a solar structure. The solar structure has a plurality of solar cells, each having a first photovoltaic cell and a second photovoltaic cell, wherein each of the plurality of solar cells absorbs light from two opposing sides. A concentrated photovoltaic lens directs light and traps light in an interior volume, allowing for internal absorption of light in addition to the external absorption of light. The base panel unit has a rotational base to which the solar structure is connected, and a magnetic base about which the rotational base is magnetically levitated. A plurality of magnets positioned around the rotational base generates a magnetic vortex that in combination with the magnetic base allows the rotational base and the solar structure to rotate. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160056318 | ADVANCED CPV SOLAR CELL ASSEMBLY PROCESS - This disclosure relates to a solar cell assembly structure for supporting a concentrator photovoltaic cell structure (3420), comprising a semiconducting structure and a diode, wherein the semiconducting structure comprises a first semiconducting region at least a part of which for placing the concentrator photovoltaic cell structure, and a second semiconducting region for realizing the diode within or on the second semiconducting region and wherein the part of the first semiconducting region for placing the concentrator photovoltaic cell structure and the second semiconducting region are not vertically overlapping. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160056321 | Large-Scale Space-Based Solar Power Station: Efficient Power Generation Tiles - A space-based solar power station, a power generating satellite module and/or a method for collecting solar radiation and transmitting power generated using electrical current produced therefrom is provided. Each solar power station includes a plurality of satellite modules. The plurality of satellite modules each include a plurality of modular power generation tiles including a photovoltaic solar radiation collector, a power transmitter and associated control electronics. Numerous embodiments relate to efficient power generation tiles. In one embodiment, an efficient power generation tile includes: at least one photovoltaic material; and at least one concentrator that redirects incident solar radiation towards a photovoltaic material such that the photovoltaic material experiences a greater solar flux relative to the case where the photovoltaic material experiences unaltered solar radiation. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160056754 | SOLAR TRACKING-TYPE PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION SYSTEM CONTROL DEVICE AND SOLAR TRACKING-TYPE PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION SYSTEM - Provided is a solar tracking-type photovoltaic power generation system control device that can suppress a decrease in the amount of power generation, the decrease being due to a retraction control. A solar tracking-type photovoltaic power generation system | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160056755 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM AND PANEL CLEANING METHOD - This photovoltaic system includes: a support portion; a photovoltaic panel supported by the support portion so as to be able to take an orientation at any angle in each of azimuth and elevation; a drive device configured to change the orientation of the photovoltaic panel; and a control device configured to cause, during power generation, the drive device to drive the photovoltaic panel such that sun light hits the photovoltaic panel, the control device configured to, when executing a cleaning mode, control the drive device such that the photovoltaic panel takes an orientation that facilitates removal of attached substance to a light receiving surface of the photovoltaic panel by use of at least one of natural phenomena including rain, wind, dew condensation, and gravity. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160056757 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR OPTIMALLY ADJUSTING THE LENS PLATE IN A CPV MODULE - The invention relates to a device and a method for optimally adjusting the lens plate in a CPV module which consists of a plurality of CPV sensors and a plurality of lenses mounted over the sensors at a distance from the focal length of said sensors in a container, having the following features: a) a sensor support plate ( | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160056758 | ADIABATIC SECONDARY OPTICS FOR SOLAR CONCENTRATORS USED IN CONCENTRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS - A solar concentrator for concentrating solar radiation toward a solar cell, a concentrated photovoltaic module including a solar concentrator and a solar cell, and a secondary optical element for use in a solar concentrator are provided. The solar concentrator includes a primary optical element for collecting and focusing the solar radiation, and a secondary optical element. The secondary optical element is arranged to receive the solar radiation collected and focused by the primary optical element and includes an input end, and output end, and an adiabatic light guide tapering from the input end toward the output end and configured for concentrating and adiabatically guiding the solar radiation between the input and output ends. Some embodiments of the present invention can be useful in solar photovoltaic applications where it is desirable to provide high acceptance angles while maintaining high concentration and optical efficiency levels. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160064583 | Three-Dimensional Metamaterial Devices with Photovoltaic Bristles - A metamaterial of an array of photovoltaic bristles may enable each photovoltaic bristle to have a high probability of photon absorption. The high probability of photon absorption may lead to increased efficiency and more power generation from an array of photovoltaic bristles. A completed photovoltaic device may benefit from further total efficiency gains by implementing a corrugated structure in the metamaterial and/or an assembled solar panel of metamaterials. Various methods to manufacture these metamaterial devices may include utilize stamping methods, photolithographic techniques, etching techniques, deposition techniques, as well as the creation of vias to form arrays of photovoltaic bristles for the metamaterial photovoltaic devices. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160064589 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module includes a transparent layer; a plurality of cells disposed on an upper surface of the transparent layer and spaced apart from each other; a reflective layer disposed on the upper surface of the transparent layer and surrounding at least a portion of a peripheral of at least one cell; and a cover plate disposed above, the plurality of cells and the reflective layer. At least a part, opposed to the reflective layer, of a lower surface of the cover plate has a serrate shape. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160065118 | MULTI-FUNCTIONAL PHOTOVOLTAIC SKYLIGHT AND/OR METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - Certain examples relate to improved solar photovoltaic systems, and/or methods of making the same. Certain improved building-integrated photovoltaic systems may include concentrated photovoltaic skylights having a cylindrical lens array. The skylight may include an insulated glass unit, which may improve the solar heat gain coefficient. The photovoltaic skylight and lens arrays may be used in combination with strip solar cells and lateral displacement tracking systems. Such techniques may advantageously help to reduce cost per watt related, in part, to the potentially reduced amount of semiconductor material to be used for such example embodiments. A photovoltaic skylight may permit diffuse daylight to pass through into an interior of a building so as to provide lighting inside the building, while the strip solar cells absorb the direct sunlight and convert it to electricity. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160065123 | METHOD OF OPERATING A PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE ARRAY - A method for operating a photovoltaic module array includes identifying when an atmospheric temperature drops below a dew point. A photovoltaic module is then positioned such that a module face is oriented at a first position substantially parallel to a ground surface permitting dew to form on the module face, the dew mixing with dust present on the module face. An angular orientation of the photovoltaic module is changed after dew formation so the module face is oriented at a second position angled away from the first position facilitating the removal of the dew entrained with the dust to be removed from the module face, thereby cleaning the module face. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160065126 | METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A COOLING DEVICE FOR INCREASING THE LIFETIME OF COMPONENTS GENERATING WASTE HEAT, AND COOLING DEVICE - For controlling a cooling device with limited power during the cooling of an apparatus which generates waste heat to a variable extent over each of a plurality of operating periods, a maximum temperature is defined individually for different operating periods from among the operating periods such that a maximum power of the cooling device that occurs upon the control of the power of the cooling device, in order to limit a detected actual temperature (actT) of the apparatus to the defined maximum temperature, during the respective operating period complies with a predefined power of the cooling device. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160065127 | ENHANCED SOLAR PANELS, LIQUID DELIVERY SYSTEMS AND ASSOCIATED PROCESSES FOR SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS - Fluid delivery systems and related structures and processes are provided, such as for use with water, treated water, and/or a cleaning solution, for any of cleaning, cooling or any combination thereof, for one or more solar panels in a power generation environment. Enhanced coatings are provided for the incident surface of solar panels, such as to avoid build up of dirt, scale, or other contaminants, and/or to improve cleaning performance. Reclamation, filtration, and reuse structures are preferably provided for the delivered fluid, and seal structures may preferably be implemented between adjoining panels, to minimize loss of the delivered water or cleaning solution. The fluid delivery system may preferably be linked to an automated control system, such as but not limited to integrated DMPPT modules and related systems. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160071993 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION DEVICE - A solar energy collection device efficiently focuses and collects solar energy. The device includes a frame and a lens coupled to the frame such that the frame extends around the lens. The lens is substantially coplanar with the frame. Each of a plurality of supports is coupled to and extends between the frame and a base. Each support is extendable wherein an orientation of the lens relative to the base is adjustable. Thus, the supports are configured for focusing light passing through the lens on a selectable location. A solar collector is positioned proximate the lens wherein the lens is configured to focus light on the solar collector. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160072428 | SOLAR CELL SUPPORT ASSEMBLY - A solar cell support assembly includes: a plurality of support bases; a rotation shaft rotatably supported on the support bases; a frame connected to the rotation shaft to rotate with the rotation shaft and swung with respect to the rotation shaft in a pitch direction to change a pitch angle formed between the rotation shaft and the frame, the frame defining a first portion located above the rotation shaft and a second portion located below the rotation shaft; and a adjusting device disposed between the frame and the rotation shaft to adjust the pitch angle. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160072429 | POOL SOLAR POWER GENERATOR - Solar panels located on residential roofs can be unsightly in some cases. A swimming pool solar power generator can locate solar panels in or around the sides and/or bottoms of a swimming pool in a manner so as to create electricity from the sun without creating an eyesore. In an embodiment, a pool solar power generator includes a solar cell module disposed in a portion of a swimming pool. The solar cell module can include solar cells and be submerged under water held by the swimming pool. The solar cell module can convert sunlight incident on the solar cells to electricity and transmit the electricity for use at a location external to the swimming pool. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160079461 | SOLAR GENERATOR WITH FOCUSING OPTICS INCLUDING TOROIDAL ARC LENSES - We disclose here a new type of solar generator using an optical concentrator in which sunlight is concentrated successively in each of two dimensions. Sunlight is first reflected toward a linear focus by a large, deeply-curved, cylindrical trough reflector of parabolic shape. Before the reflected light comes to the focus, it passes through smaller, regularly spaced toroidal arc lenses which further concentrate it in the orthogonal direction. The lenses have the two-dimensional cross section of a convex lens, extended into a toroid by rotation about an axis parallel to the line focus. The toroidal arc lenses operate to efficiently focus at very high-concentration converging rays that are incident from a wide range of directions, from the deeply curved primary reflector. The foci formed by the toroidal arc lenses are formed at regular intervals, spaced along a line parallel to and close to the primary linear trough focus. The concentrated sunlight at these foci is converted into electricity preferably by multi junction photovoltaic cells of very high efficiency, configured in short, parallel-connected linear arrays. In one embodiment, tolerance to off-axis pointing and uniformity of illumination is improved with an additional refractive element in the form of a rod lens, introduced close to and parallel to each cell array, so as to image the outline of the toroidal arc lenses onto the cells. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160079462 | PACKAGE STRUCTURE OF SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A package structure of solar photovoltaic module is provided. The package structure of solar photovoltaic module includes a transparent substrate, a backsheet disposed opposite to the transparent substrate, a plurality of solar cells between the transparent substrate and the backsheet, several encapsulants sandwiched in between the transparent substrate and the backsheet, and an optical board, wherein the encapsulants encapsulate the solar cells. The optical board is adhered to an outer surface of the backsheet, wherein the optical board has an embossing surface, and the embossing surface is a serrated surface, and a vertex angle of the serrated surface is larger than 60° and less than 150°. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160079914 | INTEGRATED TRACKER CONTROLLER - A photovoltaic (PV) system is disclosed. The PV system can include a first and a second tracker that includes a first and a second plurality of PV collection devices. The PV system can include a first motor configured to adjust an angle of the first tracker. The PV system can include an inverter coupled to an output of the first plurality of PV collection devices. The inverter can include a first local controller comprising control circuitry configured to control the first motor. In an example, the inverter can be a string inverter. In one example, the inverter can a block inverter coupled to an output of the first and second plurality of PV collection devices. The PV system can also include a power collection unit, where the power collection unit can be coupled to the first plurality of PV collection devices and include the first local controller. The PV system can also include a central controller configured to provide a first indication to the first local controller, where the first indication is usable by the control circuitry of the first local controller to control the first motor. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160087131 | FACADE ELEMENT OR ROOF ELEMENT - A façade element or roof element ( | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160087136 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - According to one embodiment, a solar cell module includes a solar cell panel and a concentrator. The solar cell panel includes a solar cell. The concentrator reflects light incident from the outside and irradiates the light onto the solar cell. The concentrator has a first surface and a second surface. The first surface reflects light incident at a first incident angle and irradiates the light incident at the first incident angle onto a first portion within the area of the solar cell. The second surface reflects light incident at a second incident angle and irradiates the light incident at the second incident angle onto a second portion within the area of the solar cell. The second incident angle is different from the first incident angle. The second portion is different from the first portion. The first surface and the second surface are asymmetric as viewed from the solar cell. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160093756 | Solar Photovoltaic Support and Tracking System with vertical adjustment capability - Installation of solar energy systems is made easier through the use of augur tubes. The base augur tube accommodates telescoping sections which enable these systems to exhibit a smaller footprint with enhanced power ratings. A tracking head is provided in which dual axis tracking is provided using a single drive mechanism. These features are employed either together or independently. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160093759 | METHOD FOR FABRICATING A PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM WITH LIGHT CONCENTRATION - A method for fabricating a photovoltaic device with light concentration, comprising: a first step of fabricating, on a substrate, a first array of photovoltaic cells from a stack of layers deposited on the substrate, the cells of the first array being connected to a first group of electrical connectors, a second step of forming a light concentration system above the cells of the first array. It further comprises: a third step, prior to at least the second step, of forming on the substrate a second array of photovoltaic cells from a stack of layers deposited on the substrate, the cells of the second array being interspersed with the cells of the first array and connected to a second group of electrical connectors, and being without a light concentration system. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160099362 | System and Method for Deploying Radiation Energy Conversion Cells - A radiation energy conversion system comprises: an environmental barrier cover having a barrier cover inner surface; an environmental barrier enclosure supporting the environmental barrier cover, the environmental barrier enclosure having a barrier enclosure internal surface extending to the barrier cover inner surface; a radiation-tranparent optic disposed in at least one of the environmental barrier cover and the environmental barrier enclosure; and at least one radiation energy conversion cell secured to at least one of the barrier enclosure internal surface and the barrier cover inner surface. | 04-07-2016 |
| 20160099674 | Flat Panel Photovoltaic System - A flat panel photovoltaic (PV) system is provided formed from a first sheet with rows of concentrated III-V photovoltaic (CPV) solar cells. An overlying second sheet is made up of rows of waveguides, where each waveguide is coupled to a corresponding CPV solar cell. A third sheet includes overlying one-piece linear lenses, each having a focal line coupled to the waveguides in a corresponding row. Optionally, a fourth sheet underlies the first sheet, which is a 1-sun solar panel including a plurality of silicon PV cells. In one variation adjacent rows of waveguides couple to the same row of CPV cells. In another variation, each waveguide in a row is optically coupled to waveguides in an adjacent row, which adjacent waveguides are then coupled to a corresponding row of CPV cells. A lens overlies each row of waveguides, with a focal line coupled to each waveguide in that row. | 04-07-2016 |
| 20160112004 | Material for Dissipating Heat From and/or Reducing Heat Signature of Electronic Devices and Clothing - A material for dissipating heat from and/or reducing the heat signature of electronic devices and clothing is disclosed. In one example, a heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing layer is sandwiched between two substrates, wherein the substrates may be flexible, rigid, or a combination of both flexible and rigid. Further, examples of the heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing layer include anti-static, anti-radio frequency (RF), anti-electromagnetic interference (EMI), anti-tarnish, and/or anti-corrosion materials. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160118929 | Solar Panel Rack Assembly - A solar panel rack assembly. The assembly is configured to pivotably support one or more solar panels. A microcontroller and gear system adjusts the angle at which the solar panels supported by the assembly are disposed throughout the day, thereby allowing the solar panels to track the path of the sun, which maximizes the impingement of solar energy on the panels and more evenly distributes daily electrical production during daylight hours. The assembly includes a panel lock configured to simultaneously support multiple solar panels, which allows for the solar panels to be connected together in arrays without the need for a racking for each individual solar panel. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160118930 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION USING OPTICAL BEAM UNIFORMLY CONDENSED BY USING FLAT MIRRORS AND COOLING METHOD BY DIRECT CONTACT - Disclosed is technology pertaining to a device and method for photovoltaic power generation using a photoelectric effect. The device for photovoltaic power generation includes: a frame; a photovoltaic panel arranged on the frame such that a light receiving surface is perpendicular to an incident direction of sunlight with the back thereof against the sun; two or more flat mirrors which are arranged on the frame and reflect the incident sunlight to the light receiving surface of the photovoltaic panel; a rotation mechanism for tracking the sun such that the light receiving surface of the photovoltaic panel is perpendicular to the incident direction of the sunlight by rotating the frame in a biaxial direction; and a supporting structure for supporting the frame and the rotation mechanism. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160126393 | AERODYNAMIC SOLAR PODS - A solar pod system, comprising of an oval transparent enclosure. The oval transparent enclosure encapsulates a circular paraboloidal reflector mounted on solar cell. The solar cell extends over the circular parabolic reflector to place the focus of the paraboloidal reflector on the solar cell, whereby the solar cell receives light reflected by the circular parabolic reflector. | 05-05-2016 |
| 20160133770 | MONOLITHIC MULTIPLE SOLAR CELLS - A monolithic multiple solar cell includes at least three partial cells, with a semiconductor mirror placed between two partial cells. The aim of the invention is to improve the radiation stability of said solar cell. For this purpose, the semiconductor mirror has a high degree of reflection in at least one part of a spectral absorption area of the partial cell which is arranged above the semiconductor mirror and a high degree of transmission within the spectral absorption range of the partial cell arranged below the semiconductor mirror. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160133773 | MONOLITHIC MULTIPLE SOLAR CELLS - A monolithic multiple solar cell includes at least three partial cells, with a semiconductor mirror placed between two partial cells. The aim of the invention is to improve the radiation stability of said solar cell. For this purpose, the semiconductor mirror has a high degree of reflection in at least one part of a spectral absorption area of the partial cell which is arranged above the semiconductor mirror and a high degree of transmission within the spectral absorption range of the partial cell arranged below the semiconductor mirror. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160133775 | SOLAR CELL STACK - A solar cell stack, having a first semiconductor solar cell having a p-n junction made of a first material with a first lattice constant, and a second semiconductor solar cell having a p-n junction made of a second material with a second lattice constant, and the first lattice constant being at least 0.008 Å smaller than the second lattice constant, and a metamorphic buffer, the metamorphic buffer being formed between the first semiconductor solar cell and the second semiconductor solar cell, and the metamorphic buffer including a series of three layers, and the lattice constant increasing in a series in the direction of the semiconductor solar cell, and the lattice constants of the layers of the metamorphic buffer being bigger than the first lattice constant, two layers of the buffer having a doping, and the difference in the dopant concentration between the two layers being greater than 4E17 cm | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160134235 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE WITH INTEGRATED COOLING AND TRACKING SYSTEM - Photovoltaic (PV) power generation systems and methods are disclosed, wherein the system includes a PV module having an integrated frame structure, PV cell rows, solar tracking system, and cooling system. A protective cover may be included with the frame structure to form an enclosed area in which the PC cell rows, cooling system, and tracking system are placed, thereby protecting them from the elements. The cooling system may be a water circulation based cooling system, and the integrated frame of the PV module may be directly mounted on a foundation consisting of a water tank. The water tank may serve as the storage unit for the water cooling system, with the water from the tank being pumped through the cooling profiles at each cell row in the frame and then returned to the tank. Other mounting structures may also form the foundation for the integrated frame. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160141432 | SOLAR CELL MODULE AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module with an anti-glare property, capable of exhibiting a high antifouling property. A surface of a plate body made of glass in the module is roughened, and an antireflection film is laminated thereon. A change point at which the slope of the contour line of the surface changes steeply exists on a cross-section cutting through the plate body in the thickness direction. With the change point as a boundary, straight lines obtained by pseudo-leveling of the contour lines existing within 0.7 micrometer on one side and 0.7 micrometer on another side, are a one-side pseudo-straight line and an other-side pseudo-straight line, respectively, a steep slope portion in which an angle formed by the pseudo-straight lines is 135 degrees or less, and a total number of less than 5 large cracks having an opening width of 0.2 micrometer or more are distributed per 58-micrometer compartment range. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160141437 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM, MODULE HOLDER SYSTEM AND REFLECTOR - A photovoltaic system has at least two bifacial solar modules, which are respectively held in a module holder, and a reflector. The module holders are configured to hold two bifacial solar modules vertically positioned and parallel to each other, wherein the module holders are interconnected via the reflector. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160147052 | ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVE CONCENTRATOR AND ABSORBER - An electromagnetic black hole may be fabricated as concentric shells having a permittivity whose variation is at least as great as an inverse square dependence on the radius of the structure. Such a structure concentrates electromagnetic energy incident thereon over a broad range of angles to an operational region near the center of curvature of the structure. Devices or materials may be placed in the operational region so as to convert the electromagnetic energy to electrical signals or to heat. Applications included solar energy harvesting and heat signature detectors. | 05-26-2016 |
| 20160149062 | STACKED AND INTEGRATED ELECTRIC POWER GENERATING DEVICE CAPTURING MULTIPLE LIGHT SOURCES FOR POWER GENERATION - A stacked and integrated electric power generating device for capturing multiple light sources for power generation has a first concentrating photovoltaic module and a second concentrating photovoltaic module. The first concentrating photovoltaic module 10 has a transparent solar concentrating panel and a thin film solar cell. The second concentrating photovoltaic module is positioned below the first concentrating photovoltaic module with an interval, such that the first and second concentrating photovoltaic modules are in the form of a stacked and integrated structure, and the second concentrating photovoltaic module can absorb the light concentrated by the transparent solar concentrating panel to generate electric power. | 05-26-2016 |
| 20160149066 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL - A concentrator photovoltaic cell includes a light condenser element configured to condense light, a first photoelectric conversion cell configured to perform a photoelectric conversion, a second photoelectric conversion cell configured to perform a photoelectric conversion, a first output circuit configured to output a first output current which is output by the first photoelectric conversion cell, and a second output circuit configured to output a second output current which is output by the second photoelectric conversion cell. | 05-26-2016 |
| 20160149067 | SOLAR ENERGY DEVICES - Solar energy device ( | 05-26-2016 |
| 20160155875 | FOCUSING SOLAR LIGHT GUIDE MODULE | 06-02-2016 |
| 20160155876 | MULTI-STEP HOLOGRAPHIC ENERGY CONVERSION DEVICE AND METHOD | 06-02-2016 |
| 20160156305 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR WEIGHT-BASED REPOSITIONING OF SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION DEVICES | 06-02-2016 |
| 20160156306 | SOLAR MODULE WITH SIMPLIFIED HUMIDITY LEVEL REGULATION | 06-02-2016 |
| 20160164454 | Coaxial Drive Tracking System for Use with Photovoltaic Systems - A solar energy collection system for converting solar energy to electricity that includes solar arrays mounted on a frame, Each array is set on a tracker head that is supported on a pedestal; each pedestal mounts onto a beam. Elevators pivot the arrays, where each elevator is made up of a shaft with a threaded end coupled to a drive nut. An upper end of each drive nut gimbal mounts to a portion of the tracker head; rotating a lower end of each shaft raises or lowers the drive nut, thereby pivoting each array. The vertical shafts are ganged together and driven by a single motor. Further included with each pedestal are azimuth orientation shafts that also mount to each tracker head. Rotating each orientation shaft adjusts an azimuth of an associated array. The orientation shafts are ganged together and are rotated by a single motor. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160164456 | Photovoltaic System Power Tracking Method - A photovoltaic system including a photovoltaic cell, and an electronic module connected to the photovoltaic cell. The electronic module is adapted to produce at least one control signal indicative of electrical power being generated by the photovoltaic cells. A tracking controller is adapted to receive the control signal(s) and based on the control signal(s), the controller is adapted to control a tracking motor for adjusting the system so that electrical power generated by the photovoltaic cells is increased. The photovoltaic system may include an optical element, adapted for concentrating solar light onto the photovoltaic cells. The electronic module preferably performs direct current (DC) to direct current (DC) power conversion and maximum power point tracking by electrical power, current, or voltage at either their inputs or their outputs. Alternatively, the tracking controller is configured to also perform maximum power point tracking by increasing to a local maximum electrical power by varying at least one of (i) current or voltage output from the photovoltaic cell or (ii) current or voltage output from the electronic module. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160172514 | Photovoltaic Microstructure and Photovoltaic Device Employing Nanowires with Single-Side Conductive Strips | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160172517 | REFLECTING FILMS WITH ROUNDED MICROSTRUCTURES FOR USE IN SOLAR MODULES | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160172518 | REFLECTIVE MICROSTRUCTURED FILMS WITH MICROSTRUCTURES HAVING CURVED SURFACES, FOR USE IN SOLAR MODULES | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160172521 | SOLAR CONCENTRATOR WITH MICROREFLECTORS | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160181970 | SOLAR BATTERY CONTROL APPARATUS | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160190371 | HYBRID SOLAR CELL - A hybrid solar cell includes a photovoltaic (PV) cell having an upper grid and lower contact plate with an anode and cathode region in between. A thermoelectric (TE) cell has a top and bottom segmented connector layer with TE elements having pairs of n-doped elements and p-doped elements connected together electrically in series and thermally in parallel by segments of the top or bottom segmented connector layer. An electrically insulating and thermally conducting layer is between the plate and the TE cell. A direct electrical connection is between the cathode region provided by the upper grid or lower plate and segments contacting the n-doped elements, and a direct electrical connection is between the anode region provided by the grid or plate and segments contacting the p-doped elements for the PV cell to power the TE cell and the TE cell to provide active cooling for the PV cell. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160190980 | SCISSOR JACK MULTI-DRIVE SINGLE-SHAFT TRACKING SOLAR SUPPORT - A multi-scissor jack-operated single-shaft solar tracking apparatus. A scissor jack is provided at regular intervals on a rotation beam of the single-shaft tracking solar support, thereby forming a multi-drive rotation. Lifting screw of each scissor jack is connected by a drive shaft so as to be lifted in synchronization. One of the scissor jacks can be driven by a motor, and the lifting screws of the other scissor jacks are driven by the transmission shaft, thereby synchronously driving the rotation beam of the single-shaft tracking solar support to rotate. The scissor jacks can be driven by manpower, in order that the angle of the tracking solar support can be adjusted by hand. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160190981 | METHOD FOR HYBRID SOLAR TRACKING, AND APPARATUS FOR HYBRID SOLAR TRACKING AND PHOTOVOLTAIC BLIND SYSTEM USING SAME - A method for hybrid solar tracking, and an apparatus for hybrid solar tracking and a photovoltaic blind system using the same are disclosed. The method includes generating first predicted power output data by analyzing first measured power output data of the past; generating a lagged error; constructing a regression analysis (RA) model, and deriving second predicted power output data; constructing an artificial neural network (ANN) model, and deriving third predicted power output data; selecting either a method for solar tracking based on photovoltaic power output or a method for solar tracking based on location and time depending on whether the second measured power output data of the present time falls within a filtering range based on a first error range and a second error range; and determining the directions of photovoltaic panels according to the selected method for solar tracking. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160190982 | Solar Energy Collector Apparatus - A solar energy collector includes a generally tubular housing or multiple tubular housings each having an open end for receipt of solar rays which are then reflected from a generally conical mirror within the housing onto solar cells lining the inside surface of the housing. Various mechanisms are utilized to favorably orient the housing or otherwise direct the solar rays and to maximize the incidence of reflected solar rays onto solar cells. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160197577 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS WITH INTERMITTENT AND CONTINUOUS RECYCLING OF LIGHT | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160197579 | PASSIVE SOLAR PANEL COOLING | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160197580 | METHOD OF MODERATING AN OPERATING TEMPERATURE OF A PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160204296 | LIQUID IMMERSING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160204297 | A DEVICE FOR GENERATING ELECTRIC ENERGY | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160204368 | SOLAR CELL AND SOLAR CELL MODULE | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160204733 | SUPPORT FOR SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160204736 | CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC UNIT, CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE, CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL, AND CONCENTRATOR PHOTOVOLTAIC APPARATUS | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160254777 | SOLAR POWER GENERATING DEVICE | 09-01-2016 |
| 20160254781 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS WITH INTERMITTENT AND CONTINUOUS RECYCLING OF LIGHT | 09-01-2016 |
| 20160380141 | SOLAR CELL MODULE - A solar cell module includes: a first optical system which concentrates sunlight; a power generation element which performs photoelectric conversion; a glass plate which supports the power generation element; and a second optical system which is on a light-exiting side of the first optical system and supports the glass plate. The second optical system includes a positioning portion, and a second lens on the first optical system side, and the glass plate is disposed at the positioning portion to position the power generation element at a focal point of the second lens. | 12-29-2016 |
| 20160380577 | Solar Energy Collector - A solar collector may include a frame for supporting a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) panels. The frame may be adapted to removably attach to a base. The solar collector may include a first panel assembly, including at least one of the plurality of PV panels, pivotally attached to the frame about a first axis. The solar collector may also include a second panel assembly, including at least one of the plurality of PV panels, pivotally attached to the first panel assembly. The second panel assembly may collectively move with the first panel assembly about the first axis and to pivot relative to the frame, and to pivot about a second axis that is substantially parallel to and radially offset from the first axis, to move between a deployed position and a retracted position. | 12-29-2016 |
| 20160380583 | Solar Panel Efficacy-Method and Device - The disclosed technology describes methods and devices for generating electricity and heat using a parabolic solar panel which employs photo-voltaic and photo-thermal technology. Embodiments include forming a flexible substrate into a parabola. A plurality of flexible photo-voltaic cells is disposed in a grid pattern over the interior surface of the parabola. Photo-reflective mirrors are disposed on the parabola's interior surface in areas not occupied by photo-voltaic cells. A copper pipe is positioned to coincide with the parabola's focal line, so that light rays reflected off the parabola are focused on the copper pipe. Inflow and outflow tubes are attached to opposite ends of the copper pipe. Water or other heat absorbing liquid is circulated through the copper pipe where the liquid absorbs thermal energy of the sunrays reflected from the photo-reflective mirrors . The liquid can be directed to a device which converts the liquid's thermal energy to electricity. Electricity produced by the photo-voltaic cells is stored in a battery. | 12-29-2016 |
| 20170236962 | SOLAR CELL ELEMENT AND CELL ARRANGEMENT MADE FROM THE ELEMENTS | 08-17-2017 |
| 20170237393 | DENSE RECEIVER ARRAY WITH BYPASS ELEMENT | 08-17-2017 |
| 20170237394 | DEVICE TO REDUCE THE TEMPERATURE OF A SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL | 08-17-2017 |
| 20180023774 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR UTILIZING ENERGY OF LIGHT EMITTED BY LIGHT FIXTURE | 01-25-2018 |
| 20180024222 | OFF-SET DRIVE ASSEMBLY FOR SOLAR TRACKER | 01-25-2018 |
| 20180026149 | SOLAR ANTENNA ARRAY FABRICATION | 01-25-2018 |
| 20180026151 | TEXTURING RIBBONS FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE PRODUCTION | 01-25-2018 |
| 20180026578 | CONCENTRATED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM | 01-25-2018 |
| 20190148564 | DEVICE LAYER THIN-FILM TRANSFER TO THERMALLY CONDUCTIVE SUBSTRATE | 05-16-2019 |
| 20220140775 | ACTUATOR DRIVEN SINGLE-AXIS TRACKER - A single-axis solar tracker consisting of a series of A-frame shaped foundation with actuators attached to each leg that are connected at one end to a common rotating assembly supporting multiple solar panels. Concerted action of the actuators causes the common rotating assembly to rotate about an axis of rotation. The system may include a central torque tube supported by the series of A-frame foundations or a frame assembly that is hingedly attached to each A-frame foundation via a torque arm. | 05-05-2022 |
| 20220140779 | A CORRUGATED TRANSPARENT TOP PANEL FOR EITHER INCREASING OR DECREASING HARVESTING OF SOLAR RADIATION AND METHODS THEREOF - The present invention generally pertains to a corrugated transparent top panel provided useful for either increasing or decreasing harvesting of solar radiation and to methods thereof. A special use of this panel is in photovoltaic cells, solar cells, walls, windows and agricultural structures. | 05-05-2022 |
| 20220140783 | HIGH CONCENTRATING SOLAR DEVICE WITH PASSIVE COOLING - A method of passive cooling for a high concentrating photovoltaic, the high concentrating photovoltaic, includes a photovoltaic receiver, a parabolic dish reflector and a plurality of thermally conductive heat pipes having a direct thermal contact between the receiver and the reflector to transfer excessive heat. The method includes receiving sunlight by the parabolic dish reflector, reflecting the sunlight towards the photovoltaic receiver that converts the sunlight into electricity and heat, transferring the heat through the thermally conductive heat pipes and absorbing the heat by the reflector serving a dual purpose as a heat sink. A reduction in weight and cost is accomplished by incorporating the flat heat pipes. | 05-05-2022 |
