GB2593670A

GB2593670A - Systems and apparatuses for portable solar power generation with multiple degrees of freedom

Info

Publication number: GB2593670A
Application number: GB2003079.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Gittens-Bernard Lance
Original assignee: Wolf Tech Systems Ltd
Current assignee: Wolf Tech Systems Ltd
Priority date: 2020-01-05
Filing date: 2020-03-04
Publication date: 2021-10-06
Anticipated expiration: 2040-03-04
Also published as: GB202000081D0; GB2593670B; GB202003079D0

Abstract

A transportable solar power generator comprises a housing 102, such as a shipping container, with a base, side walls, and a roof, and a solar panel 106, mounted to one end of a robot arm 104. The arm has multiple degrees of freedom, allowing the panel to move between a stowed position and a deployed position. Preferably, the device comprises a solar tracking system, to allow the arm to automatically track the position of the sun. In some embodiments, one of the side walls may comprise a recess, inside which is fixed a second photovoltaic panel 108.

Description

Systems and apparatuses for portable solar power generation with multiple degrees of freedom [11 This invention relates generally to a portable, self-sustaining, multiple degree of freedom solar-powered power generation system that employs photovoltaic cells to produce electricity. More specifically, this invention relates to solar powered components, such as telecommunications equipment, blockchain mining technology, or water filtration devices, attached to transportable shipment containers having multiple degree of freedom robotic arm with solar panels mounted thereto.

Background of the invention

[2] Solar poyver systems that employ photovoltaic cells to convert the radiant energy of sunlight directly into electrical energy are well known in the art. In general, typical solar powered systems are permanently installed on structures and are not designed to be transported. Additionally, the solar-powered systems that are transportable are not generally capable of producing power on large scales. Such systems find particular use in remote locations and during emergency situations in which conventional electrical sources have been disrupted.

[31 In certain scenarios, traditional gas powered generators may provide electricity on a large scale, but they rely on fossil fuels which may not always be readily available.

[41 Portable, shipment container mounted, solar-power systems are also known, and one such system is described in US 2018/0287549 Al. That system utilizes a plurality of solar panels which are pivotally mounted to a recess in the side wall so the panels may be deployed in any position between vertical and horizontal. The panels are arranged so that they may be stored in the recess of the sidewall when not in use or during transport of the system.

[51 Another portable, trailer mounted, solar power system is described in US 5,969,501. The patent shows a plurality of solar panel sections that are arranged to fold about the sides and top of the trailer. The planar array pivots about a hinge along one side of the trailer top.

[61 Folding solar panel have been used in a number of specialised applications.

For example, they arc commonly used in space applications to supply power for satellites and the like. US 5,520,747 discloses one such system. The patent describes a system which has a series of solar panels that are stored in a folded configuration for launch. Upon reaching the desired orbit, the panels are deployed into an extended planar configuration. Solar panel arrays that are designed for use in space are not satisfactory for terrestrial applications as the deployed array is quite fragile and not designed to withstand normal weather conditions.

[7] Self-sustaining, portable power stations arc also known, and one such system is described in US 8,593,102. The system utilizes solar panel arrays 15 mounted on roller assemblies to slide between a stowed and deployed condition.

[8] Therefore, there is a long felt but unresolved nced for a transportable system which has multiple degrees of freedom that allows solar energy to power telecommunication systems, blockchain mining systems, water filtration devices, hospitals and schools, and emergency lighting.

Statement of invention

A first aspect of the invention provides a transportable solar power generation system comprising: a housing having a base, side walls and a roof; a robotic arm fixed at its proximal end to the roof the robotic arm being movable with multiple degrees of freedom between a stowed position and at least one deployed position; and a first photovoltaic panel coupled to the distal end of the robotic arm.

Optionally, when the robotic arm is in the stowed position, the photovoltaic panel is held parallel to the roof Optionally, when the robotic arm is in a deployed position, the photovoltaic panel is not parallel with the roof.

Optionally, at least one side wall includes a recess. A second photovoltaic panel may be fixed within the recess.

A third photovoltaic panel may be fixed to the roof.

A rigid frame may be fixed around and protruding from the perimeter of at least one of the side walls. The recess may be defined by the rigid frame, and the rigid frame may protrude farther than the second photovoltaic panel from the side wall.

The housing may be a shipping container.

The first photovoltaic panel may comprise a plurality of hingedly connected sections. The first photovoltaic panel may comprise: a first section, connected to the distal end of the robotic arm; a second section, hingedly connected to a first edge of the first section; a third section, hingedly connected to a second edge of the first section; wherein the first edge is opposite the second edge.

The first voltaic panel may have: a folded configuration in which the second section and the third section are pivoted about their hinged connections to fold in on the first section; and a deployed configuration, wherein the second section and the third section are held adjacent to and in the same plane as the first panel.

There may be a support column within the housing, extending from the base to 20 the roof. The robotic arm may be fixed to the support column through the roof The rigid frame may comprise coupling means configured to enable the transportable solar power generation system to couple with a second transportable solar power generation system.

A power supply system may be electrically coupled between the first photovoltaic 25 panel and a load.

A solar tracking system for controlling the position of the robotic arm may be included.

An electrical socket may be provided on the outer surface of a side wall, coupled to the first photovoltaic panel.

The robotic arm may be powered by the solar power generation system.

The housing may contain an electrical load connected to the power generation system, the electrical load comprising at least one of: a blockchain mining system; telecommunications equipment; terra farms; and/or water filtration devices.

Brief description of the drawings

The accompanying drawings illustrate one or more embodiments and/or aspects of the disclosure and, together with the written description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like elements of an embodiment.

[10] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the shipment container with a plurality of solar panels attached to degree of freedom arm affixed thereto, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[11] FIG. 2 shows the shipment container with the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm with plurality of solar panels attached in a raised configuration, 20 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; [12] FIG. 3 is a perspective the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm with plurality of solar panels attached in a raised configuration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; [13] FIG. 4 shows the shipment container with the multiple degrees of freedom 25 robotic arm with plurality of solar panels attached and an electrical components and an energy storage system in a folded configuration, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; [14] FIG. 5 is an aerial view of the shipment container with the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm with plurality of solar panels attached in a raised 5 configuration, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; [15] FIG. 6 illustrates electrical components and an energy storage system, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; [16] FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of the shipment container with the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm with plurality of solar panels attached in a folded 10 configuration, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

Detailed description

[17] Briefly described, and according to one embodiment, aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to solar-powered power generation systems and devices. In one container (or similar style container) with movable solar panels mounted on a multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm attached thereto, an energy storage system, and connections to power electrical equipment arc housed. In one specific embodiment, the equipment includes a blockchain mining system, such as GPU Computers or ASIC mining machines. In a particular embodiment, a shipment container such as the 150 20' Shipping Container (referred to herein as "20 ft"), distributed by YMC Container Solutions, located in East Yorkshire, United Kingdom, may be retrofitted to include various system elements such as the, multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm, solar panels, energy storage system, and blockchain mining system with CPU computers attached. In certain embodiments, other shipment containers may be used and retrofitted as necessary to include the various system components described herein. During transportation and storage of the shipment container, the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm with mounted solar panels are positioned to fold parallel to the top surface of the shipment container. The outer walls of the shipment container are surrounded by a protruding frame. The protruding frame acts as a protective barrier and allows multiple shipment containers to be connected during storage and transportation.

[181 In certain embodiments, when the system is in use (not in storage or transport) the solar panels may be repositioned by manoeuvring (either manually 5 or electronically) the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm at individual joints to position the solar panels to a desired angle as to collect sunlight. Energy generated by the solar panels may be stored in batteries included in the energy storage system. In one embodiment, the battery storage capacity in the energy storage system may be increased through an external socket opening in the rear of the shipment container. In various embodiments the energy stored in the external battery storage system or the energy immediately produced by the solar panels may be used to power blockchain mining systems with GPI; computers or similar attached.

[191 For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will, nevertheless, be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended; any alterations and further modifications of the described or illustrated embodiments, and any further applications of the principles of the disclosure as illustrated therein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates.

[201 Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a shipment container 102 with a multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 with a plurality of solar panels 106 connected in a folded configuration. In particular embodiments, a system including the shipment container 102 and multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 and plurality of solar panels connected 106 is a fully portable system operable to generate energy via the plurality of solar 106, and furthermore use the energy to power an electrical load, such as a CPU Computer System designed for blockchain rnining in situations where the cost of mining whilst maintaining a stable network through traditional means or other methods of producing energy to run these systems are not available. The research paper by CoinShares Group released in lune 2019 entitled "The Bitcoin Mining Network", indicates that 60% of the bitcoin hashrate in 2019 originated in China. China has consistently been a major market and miners located here have dominated bitcoin mining due to the cheap electricity and resources available. For example, consider a scenario where one is located in a geographical region where electricity is not readily available, however sunlight is prevalent (e.g., the tropics, the desert, islands etc.). In this scenario, the system described in the present disclosure may be transported to this geographical location (via truck, airplane, boat, helicopter, etc.) and the system may immediately begin to generate energy via the plurality of solar panels 106 for powering electrical loads (e.g., blockchain mining systems, lights, medical equipment, electronics, computers, refrigeration systems, water filtration machines, display screens, telecommunications equipment, audio equipment, etc.). In a similar scenario, the system described in the present disclosure may be used to create new establishments or cities in the previously described geographical locations.

[21] In various embodiments, and as mentioned above, the shipment container 102 may be a 20ft shipment container. In general, 20ft shipment containers are the most popular and common style of containers In some embodfrrients, the shipment container 102 may be a retrofitted configuration of another shipment container such as the Quadcon shipment container which is one-fourth the size of the 20ft container, to allow for various attachments and modifications, such as the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 and the plurality of solar panels 106. As shown in the present embodiment, the plurality of solar panels 106 attached to the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 affixed to the shipment container 102 are positioned to fold at various joints to align parallel with the top surface of the shipment container 102. In certain embodiments, the shipment container may have an additional plurality of solar panels mounted on the side 108, or a plurality of solar panels mounted on the roof 110, or both to increase the amount of electricity generated. in certain embodiments, the plurality of solar panels 106 has additional hinged solar panel sections 202. In certain scenarios the hinged solar panel sections 202 are connected to the plurality of solar panels 106 using motors 112. As will be described in the discussions about FIG. 3, the motors 112 are used to position the hinged solar panel sections 202 to the desired position to generate energy or to fold to a closed configuration when the system is not in use.

[22] Continuing with FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the shipment container 102 To includes container connectors 114 at the outer points/corners of the shipment container 102. In one embodiment, the container connectors 114 allow for a shipment container 102 to be securely connected to another shipment container 102 in situations such as during transportation or storage, as briefly discussed above. According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the container connectors 114 may include slots, latches, or other attachment means for attaching to other containers. In particular embodiments, additional hardware (e.g., nuts, bolts, screws, etc.) may be used to secure the shipment containers 102 at the container connectors 114.

[23] FIG. 2 shows the system in an operational configuration with the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 with plurality of solar panels 106 connected raised, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In various embodiments, the plurality of solar panels 106 may be lifted and positioned by the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 into vertical or any tilted configuration as desired and appropriate to attract an optimal amount of sunlight.

In certain embodiments, in the lifted vertical and tilted configuration, the plurality of solar panels 106 may accept additional solar panel sections 202. In particular embodiments, the plurality of solar panels 106 may be configured to accept the additional solar panel sections 202. In one embodiment, accepting the additional solar panel sections 202 may include attaching the additional solar panels 202 via motors 112 or the like embedded in the frame or another appropriate location of the plurality of solar panels 106. In other embodiments, the additional solar panels 202 may have been unfolded, from a previously folded state as shown in FIG. 1. In other embodiments, the outer most solar panels (the additional solar panels 202 as shown) may be attached to the inner most solar panels (the plurality of solar panels 106) by a hinge allowing for the outer most solar panel to be folded on-top of or underneath the inner most solar panels. In particular embodiments in which the solar panels arc foldable, a locking mechanism may secure the solar panels in the unfolded and folded states. In various embodiments where additional solar panels 202 are included, the additional solar panels 202 may operate in conjunction with the pre-existing plurality of solar panels 106. In various embodiments, as briefly discussed in FIG. 1 additional solar panels 108 may be affixed to outer walls of the shipment container. As shown in the present embodiment, the additional solar panels 108 are positioned and mounted flush to a cavity or recess located adjacent to the outer walls of the shipment container. In certain embodiments, the additional solar panels 108 are mounted flush in a frame that protrudes from the outer wall of the shipment container 102. In one embodiment, the protruding frame protects the additional solar panels 108 by acting like a bumper. In some embodiments, the additional solar panels 108 may align and mount flush with the shipping container 102 frame. In certain scenarios, two or more shipment containers 102 may be connected or arranged in a side-by-side arrangement. In these arrangements, the protruding frame may be the only portions of the two or more shipping containers 102 touching, thereby ensuring that the additional solar panels 108 are protected in either storage, transportation, etc. In other embodiments, additional solar panels 110 may be mounted on the roof in the same way as previously described. In one embodiment, the additional solar panels 110 may be protected by shutters or shades (e.g., rolling storm shades) that may enclose or otherwise protect the additional solar panels 110. In some embodiments, the additional solar panels mounted on the roof 110 and on the side 108 may be manoeuvrable to be stored within an interior of the shipment container. In some embodiments, for example the additional solar panels 202, 108, 110 may allow for the entire collection of solar panels to operate in a daisy chain fashion for generating solar power.

[241 Continuing with FIG. 2, the system includes one or more access doors 402, according to some embodiments. As will be discussed in FIG. 2 the one or more access doors 402 allow for access to various components maintained within the shipment container 102. These components may include, but are not limited to power generating equipment, robotic teaching and learning devices, blockchain mining systems, lighting systems, cooling systems, general storage, computers, display screens, servers, lighting systems, etc. [251 Proceeding now to FIG. 3, a rear perspective view of the system in an operational configuration with the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 with plurality of solar panels 106 connected in a vertical lifted positioned according to the present embodiment. The plurality of solar panels 106 according to the present embodiment are connected to the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 to be able to be positioned to the desired angle to collect solar power to generate energy. In various embodiments the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 includes a cylindrical support section(base section) 610 mounted on the roof of the shipment container 102, a horizontally-rotating section 608 mounted in an upper part of the base section 610, a vertically-rotating arm section 606 extending from the horizontally-rotating section 608, a vertically-rotating arm with horizontally-rotating section 604 connected from the top of the vertically-rotating arm section 606, and a wrist section 602 attached to the tip of the arm section 604.

In a rotating section of a sixth joint 312 of the wrist section 602 an adapter 204 is used to attach the end effector. According to various embodiments, of the present disclosure the end effector is any plurality of solar panels 106.

[26] Continuing with FIG. 3 the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 includes a plurality of (herein, six) joints 302, 304, 306, 308, 310 and 312. The main constituting parts of the first joint 302 are accommodated in the base section 610, the main constituting parts of the second joint 304 are accommodated in the arm section 606. The main constituting parts for the third joint 306, and the fourth joint 308 are accommodated in arm section 604. The main constituting parts of the fifth joint 310, and the sixth joint 312 arc accommodated in the wrist section 602.

[27] '1'he first joint 302 is a torsional rotational joint, for turning that includes an axis of rotation R1 parallel to a vertical direction, and by the rotation of the first joint 302, the arm sections 606, and the arm sections 604, and the wrist sections 602, and plurality of solar panels attached 106, and additional solar panels 202 makes turn rotations left and right. The second joint 304 is a torsional rotational joint for hoisting that includes an axis of rotation R2 orthogonal to the axis of rotation R1, and by rotation of the second joint 304, the arm section 606 vertically rotates. The third joint 306 is a torsional rotational joint for hoisting that includes an axis of rotation R3 orthogonal to the axis of rotation R1, and by the rotation of the third joint 306, the arm section 604 vertically rotates. The forth joint 308 is a torsional rotation joint, for turning that includes an axis of rotation R4, and by the rotation of the fourth joint 308, the arm sections 606, and the wrist sections 602, and plurality of solar panels attached 106, and additional solar panels 202 horizontally rotates and makes turn rotations left and right. The fifth joint 310 is a torsional rotation joint for hoisting that includes an axis of rotation R5, and by rotation of the fifth joint 310, the wrist section 602 vertically rotates. The sixth joint 312 is a torsional rotation joint lying about the axis of rotation R6, and by rotation of the sixth joint 312, the plurality of solar panels attached 106, and additional solar panels 202 makes axial rotations.

[28] Each of the joints of the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm s 104 includes an actuator (motor) 112 for driving the joint, a motor driver for controlling the motor, and an encoder for measuring a rotation angle of the motor 112. The motor driver supplies the motor 112 with a pulse power corresponding to a command value from a motion controlling section, and the motor 112 thereby rotates. The encoder (rotary encoder) is attached to a driving shaft of the motor 112 or a rotating shaft of the joint. The encoder detects the rotation angle of the motor 112 and sends data on the detected rotation angle of the motor 112 to the motion controlling section. In certain embodiments the rotation angle is measured by a sensor which may be housed within or mounted on the frame of the plurality of solar panels 106.

[29] Proceeding now to FIG. 4, a side view of the system is shown revealing various internal components, according to one embodiment. In various embodiments, one of the one or more access doors 402 as previously described in FIG. 2 may be opened to reveal an electronic control panel 506, internal battery arrangement 504, and control pad 502. In one embodiment the shipment container 402 may be configured to include a support column 404 which may consist of a steel frame welded to the roof and base of the shipment container 402 covered in corrugated steel to provide additional structural support to the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 and shipment container 102. In one embodiment, the control pad 502 may include components such as a power regulator, converters, key pads, and any other electrical for controlling the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 with plurality of solar panels 106 attached according to various embodiments. According to one embodiment, the control pad 502 may be operative to position the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 with plurality of solar panels 106 attached to the desired position manually or automatically to start generating energy. In one embodiment, the electronic control panel 506 may include any components such as key pads, power regulator and converters, and any other electrical equipment for controlling the system. According to various embodiments, the electronic control panel 506 may be operative to direct the solar generated electricity/power to the internal battery arrangement 504, the blockchain mining system as previously described, or both simultaneously. According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the electronic control panel 506 may be independent of the electrical load (e.g., the blockchain mining system, water filtration system, telecommunications systems, etc.), and the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 in general, and may not be operable to control the electrical load. In certain embodiments, the internal battery arrangement 504 may allow for continuous use of the blockchain mining system or any other electrical load for an extended period of time (e.g., 168 hours or more) without relying on the plurality of solar panels 106 for generating more power. In other embodiments, the internal battery arrangement 504 may power the blockchain mining system or any other electrical load for more or less time depending on various system configurations. In one embodiment, the internal battery arrangement 504 may be powered by a separate generator (e.g., petrol generator) in the absence of sun light. In various embodiments the electronic control panel 506 may monitor the charge of the internal battery arrangement 504 to ensure the batteries 504 do not reach discharge levels below a predetermined threshold (e.g., 50%). In a particular embodiment, if the internal battery arrangement 504 reaches a discharge level below the predetermined threshold then the plurality of solar panels 106 or a generator may be activated/enabled to generate power for recharging the batteries 504. In particular embodiments, the plurality of solar panels 106 or any other solar panel arrangement (e.g., roof mounted solar panels 110, side mounted solar panels 108, etc.) may be continuously charging the internal battery arrangement 504 regardless of the current discharge levels. In certain embodiments one or more cooling fans are included in near proximity to the electronic control panel 506, and control pad 502, and internal battery arrangement 504 in order to maintain an appropriate temperature range for the electronic control panel to operate within.

[301 Looking now at FIG. 5, a birds eye view of the shipment container 102 with the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104, and with plurality of solar panels 106 connected raised, in an operational configuration. In various embodiments, the shipment container 102 may accept additional solar panel sections 110 attached to the roof In various embodiments, the additional solar panel sections 110 are attached to the roof of the shipment container 102 by hinges, or another appropriate form of attachment, and furthermore the additional solar panel sections 110 may be removable, slidable, etc. According to certain embodiments, as was described in FIG. 2 the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 with additional solar panel sections 202 is in an operational configuration.

[31] Turning now to FIG. 6, a block diagram is shown illustrating exemplary electrical components of the system, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Mentioned briefly in 11G. 4, included within the shipment container 102 is a control pad 502 for controlling, monitoring and storing data of the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104. In one embodiment, the control pad is connected to a sensor 702. In certain scenarios, the sensor 702 transmits data of the position of the sun to the control pad 502, which converts this data to adjust the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104 with plurality of solar panels 106 attached to the identified position to generate solar power. In some embodiments, the control pad 502 may provide a display to a user indicating the charge level of the degree of freedom battery arrangement 802, how much power is being consumed by the multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm 104, the current position of the individual joints, (e.g., 302, 304, 306, 308, 310, 312), and general information such as time and date, etc. Described in FIG. 4, included in the shipment container 102 is an electronic control panel 506 for controlling, monitoring, and storing solar generated power, according to particular embodiments. The present embodiment illustrates the electronic control panel 506 and its operative connections to both the plurality of solar panels 106 and an electrical load, such as a blockchain mining system or any other power consuming devices. In one embodiment, the plurality of solar panels 104 may be connected (via leads or other appropriate power cables) to a charge controller 706 included in the electronic control panel 506. According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the charge controller 706 may be configured to manage power generated by the plurality of solar panels 106, as well as manage the power stored in the battery arrangement 504. In certain embodiments, the charge controller 706, may be configured to handle additional battery arrangements which include but is not limited to any external battery arrangement 806, and any degree of freedom battery arrangement 802. For example, consider a scenario where there is ample sunlight and the battery arrangement 504 is at a 60% charge level. In this example, the power generated by the plurality of solar panels 106 may be received by the charge controller 706 and further directed to the battery arrangement 504 for charging the battery arrangement 504. Continuing with this example, as the battery arrangement 504 nears a complete charge, the charge controller 706 may begin to taper or stop directing the solar generated power to the battery arrangement 504 to prevent overcharging. In some embodiments, the charge controller 706 may detect (via internal meters) that the battery arrangement 504 has reached a predetermined charge level (e.g., 60% charge) and in response begin to direct the solar generated power to the battery arrangement 504. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the charge controller 706 described herein may be a pulse width modulation (PAW) controller, a maximum power point tracking (N41)1Y1) charge controller, or any other appropriate type of charge controller.

[32] Continuing with FIG. 6, the electronic control panel 506 includes a control pad 704 for interacting with and configuring the components of the electronic control panel 506, according to various aspects of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the control pad 704 may include a digital keypad and display for configuring components such as the charge controller 706. For example, a user may interact with the digital keypad and display of the control pad 704 for configuring battery arrangement charge levels that indicate a trigger event for recharging (e.g., 60% charge level). In some embodiments, the control pad 704 may provide a display to a user indicating how much power is being generated by the plurality of solar panels 106, how much power is being consumed by any power consuming device (e.g., blockchain mining system), and general information such as time and date, etc. p31 In a particular embodiment, the charge controller 706 is operatively connected to an inverter 708 (AC/DC) for converting the power generated by the plurality of solar panels 106 (and/or the power stored by the battery arrangement 504) to be consumed by any electrical loads such as lights, or power strips/outlets for powering the blockchain mining system, telecommunication devices, radio hardware, computer servers, etc. [34] Proceeding now to FIG. 7, a rear perspective view of the shipment container. According to various embodiments, of the present disclosure the shipment container 102 may be configured to include an external electrical socket 510. In one embodiment, the external socket 510 is used to connect any external battery arrangement 806 (e.g., tesla commercial powerpack) to increase the storage capacity of the battery arrangement. In various embodiments the external battery arrangement may be connected (via leads or other appropriate power cables) to the charge controller 706 using the external socket 510. As described in FIG. 6, according to various embodiments, the power generated by the plurality of solar panels 106 may be received by the charge controller 706 and further directed to the battery arrangement 806 for charging the battery arrangement 806. Continuing with this example, as the battery arrangement 806 nears a complete charge, the charge controller 706 may begin to taper or stop directing the solar generated power to the battery arrangement 806 to prevent overcharging. In some embodiments, the charge controller 706 may detect (via internal meters) that the battery arrangement 806 has reached a predetermined charge level (e.g., 60% charge) and in response begin-to direct the solar generated power to the battery arrangement 806.

[35] In summary, various embodiments of the invention may comprise a portable, solar power generation container system; comprising: a transportable rigid housing comprising a base, at least two sidewalls, and a top surface; a multiple degree of freedom robotic arm affixed to the transportable rigid housing; an end effector attached to and at least one solar panel on said multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm, wherein the said multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm and at least one solar panel rests in a parallel position during transport of the portable, solar power generation container system and is configured to mechanically extend at least partially upwards when the portable, solar power generation container system is in use.

[36] The at least one of the at least two sidewalls may include a recess [37] The at least one of the at least two side walls may include at least one solar panel affixed to the transportable rigid housing.

[38] The top surface of the transportable rigid housing may include at least one solar panel affixed to the transportable rigid housing.

[39] The at least one of the at least two sidewalls may comprise an outwardly 15 protruding frame along a perimeter of the at least one of the at least two side walls.

[40] The recess may be contained in an area entirely within the outwardly protruding frame along the perimeter of the at least one of the at least two side [41] An outermost surface of the outwardly protruding frame may protrude 20 outwardly at a distance greater than the outermost surface of the at least one solar panel affixed within the recess.

1421 The top surface of said rigid housing may have at least one solar panel attached.

[43] The transportable rigid housing may be a 20ft shipping container.

[44] Optionally, the at least one solar panel includes a plurality of solar panel sections mounted on said end effector. A first of said panel sections attached to said multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm a second of said panel sections hinged through said end effector to said first panel section, and a third of said panel sections hinged through said end effector to said first panel section parallel to said second solar panel section. Said second and third solar panel sections are sized to be half of said first solar panel section. Said second hinged solar panel section and said third hinged solar panel section folds into a rest position in said first solar panel section. Said end effector locking means to hold said panel sections parallel to one another to form a planar array. Said locking means includes a slide ram having a ram body contained within said end effector.

[45] The transportable rigid housing may include a support column structure affixed to said base and top surface. Said multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm may be mounted to said support column structure through said top surface.

[46] The outermost surface of the protruding frame may comprise at least two connection points for securely connecting to a second portable solar power 15 generation container system.

[47] A power generation system may be affixed within an interior of the transportable rigid housing for receiving energy collected by the at least one of the solar panels and generating power for use by one or more electrical components.

[48] The system may further comprise a solar tracking system affixed within the 20 transportable rigid housing automatic or manual for control of said multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm and said end effector.

[49] At least one of the at least two sidcwalls includes a socket affixed to said wall. Said socket is connected to said power generation system to externally increase battery storage capacity for energy collected by the at least one solar panel.

[50] The multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm may be operable via at least one motor connected to the power generation system.

[51] The system may further comprise a components system such as a blockchain mining system, telecommunications equipment, terra farms or water filtration devices affixed within an interior of the transportable rigid housing powered by the power generation system when in use.

[52] Various other embodiments include a portable, solar power generation container system, comprising; a shipment container box having a base, four side walls, and a top surface, wherein at least two of the four side walls each include a recess; and a multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm affixed to the top surface of said transportable rigid housing; an end effector attached to said multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm, and at least one solar panel mounted on said end effector is configured to mechanically extend upwards from the top surface when the portable solar power generation container system is in use; at least one solar panel affixed to each recess in the at least two side walls, wherein the at least one solar panel is operatively connected to collect energy; and at least one solar panel attached to the top surface of said transportable rigid housing; and a solar tracking system affixed within the interior of the shipment container box and operatively connected to the multiple degree of freedom robotic arm for positioning the at least one solar panel for collecting energy; and a power generation system affixed with an interior of the shipment container box and operatively connected to the at least one solar panel for receiving energy collected by the at least one solar panel and generating power; and a blockchain mining system affixed within the interior of the shipment container box, a socket protruding outwardly from one of the said walls of the shipment container box, connected to the batteries of the power generation system to externally increase the capacity for storing the energy collected by the at least one solar panel.

[53] The said end effector may include a plurality of solar panel sections mounted on said end effector. A first of said panel sections attached to said multiple degrees of freedom robotic arm, a second of said panel sections hinged through said end effector to said first panel section, and a third of said panel sections hinged through said end effector to first panel section parallel to said second solar panel section to form a planar array.

F.541 The at least two of the four sidewalls may each comprise an outwardly protruding frame along a pen-meter of the at least two of the four side walls.

[55] The top surface may include at least one solar panel for collecting energy.

[56] The recess may be contained in an area entirely within the outwardly protruding frame along the perimeter of the at least two of the four side walls.

F1 The outermost surface of the outwardly protruding frame may protrude outwardly at a distance greater than an outermost surface of the at least one solar 10 panel while the at least one solar panel rests within the recess.

[58] The outwardly protruding frame may comprise at least two connection points for securely connecting to a second portable power generation system.

F.591 The invention has been described by way of example only, with reference to particular embodiments. The description is not limiting. The scope of the 15 invention is determined by the claims.

Claims

Claims 1. A transportable solar power generation system comprising: a housing having a base, side walls and a roof; a robotic arm fixed at its proximal end to the roof, the robotic arm being movable 5 with multiple degrees of freedom between a stowed position and at least one deployed position; and a first photovoltaic panel coupled to the distal end of the robotic arm.
2. A transportable sobs power generation system according to claim 1, wherein when the robotic arm is in the stowed position, the photovoltaic panel is held parallel to the roof.
3. A transportable solar power generation system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein when the robotic arm is in a deployed position, the photovoltaic panel is not parallel with the roof.
4. A transportable solar power generation system according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one side wall includes a recess.
5. A transportable solar power generation system according to claim 4, wherein a second photovoltaic panel is fixed within the recess.
6. A transportable solar power generation system according to any preceding claim, comprising a third photovoltaic panel fixed to the roof
7. A transportable solar power generation system according to any preceding claim, comprising a rigid frame fixed around and protruding from the perimeter of at least one of the side walls.
8. A transportable sobs power generation system according to claim 7 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the recess is defined by the rigid frame, and wherein the rigid frame protrudes farther than the second photovoltaic panel from the side wall.
9. A transportable solar power generation system according to any preceding claim, wherein the housing is a shipping container.
10. A transportable solar power generation system according to any preceding claim, wherein the first photovoltaic panel comprises a plurality of hingedly 5 connected sections.
11. A transportable solar power generation system according to claim 10, wherein the first photovoltaic panel comprises: a first section, connected to the distal end of the robotic arm; a second section, hingedly connected to a first edge of the first section; a third section, hingedly connected to a second edge of the first section; wherein the first edge is opposite the second edge.
12. A transportable solar power generation system according to claim 11, wherein the first voltaic panel has: a folded configuration in which the second section and the third section are pivoted about their hinged connections to fold in on the first section; and a deployed configuration, wherein the second section and the third section are held adjacent to and in the same plane as the first panel.
13. A transportable solar power generation system according to any preceding claim, comprising a support column within the housing, extending from the base to the roof.
14. A transportable solar power generation system according to claim 13 wherein the robotic arm is fixed to the support column through the roof.
15. A transportable solar power generation system according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the rigid frame comprises coupling means configured to enable the 25 transportable solar power generation system to couple with a second transportable solar power generation system.
16. A transportable solar power generation system according to any preceding claim, comprising a power supply system electrically coupled between the first photovoltaic panel and a load.
17. A transportable solar power generation system according to any preceding 5 claim, further comprising a solar tracking system for controlling the position of the robotic arm.
18. A transportable solar power generation system according to any preceding claim, further comprising an electrical socket on the outer surface of a side wall, coupled to the first photovoltaic panel.
19. A transportable solar power generation system according to any preceding claim, wherein the robotic arm is powered by the solar power generation system.
20. A transportable solar power generation system according to any preceding claim wherein the housing contains an electrical load connected to the power generation system, the electrical load comprising at least one of: a blockchain mining system; telecommunications equipment; terra farms; and/or water filtration devices.