Classifications

• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F21—LIGHTING
  • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
  • F21S11/00—Non-electric lighting devices or systems using daylight
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
  • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
  • F24S20/00—Solar heat collectors specially adapted for particular uses or environments
  • F24S20/20—Solar heat collectors for receiving concentrated solar energy, e.g. receivers for solar power plants
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
  • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
  • F24S23/00—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors
  • F24S23/12—Light guides
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
  • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
  • F24S23/00—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors
  • F24S23/30—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with lenses
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G02—OPTICS
  • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
  • G02B17/00—Systems with reflecting surfaces, with or without refracting elements
  • G02B17/08—Catadioptric systems
  • G02B17/0856—Catadioptric systems comprising a refractive element with a reflective surface, the reflection taking place inside the element, e.g. Mangin mirrors
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G02—OPTICS
  • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
  • G02B19/00—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics
  • G02B19/0004—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics characterised by the optical means employed
  • G02B19/0028—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics characterised by the optical means employed refractive and reflective surfaces, e.g. non-imaging catadioptric systems
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G02—OPTICS
  • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
  • G02B19/00—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics
  • G02B19/0033—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics characterised by the use
  • G02B19/0038—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics characterised by the use for use with ambient light
  • G02B19/0042—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics characterised by the use for use with ambient light for use with direct solar radiation
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G02—OPTICS
  • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
  • G02B19/00—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics
  • G02B19/0033—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics characterised by the use
  • G02B19/0047—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics characterised by the use for use with a light source
  • G02B19/0061—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics characterised by the use for use with a light source the light source comprising a LED
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G02—OPTICS
  • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
  • G02B19/00—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics
  • G02B19/0033—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics characterised by the use
  • G02B19/0076—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics characterised by the use for use with a detector
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G02—OPTICS
  • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
  • G02B19/00—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics
  • G02B19/0033—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics characterised by the use
  • G02B19/0085—Condensers, e.g. light collectors or similar non-imaging optics characterised by the use for use with both a detector and a source
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G02—OPTICS
  • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
  • G02B3/00—Simple or compound lenses
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G02—OPTICS
  • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
  • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
  • G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
  • G02B6/26—Optical coupling means
  • G02B6/32—Optical coupling means having lens focusing means positioned between opposed fibre ends
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G02—OPTICS
  • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
  • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
  • G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
  • G02B6/42—Coupling light guides with opto-electronic elements
  • G02B6/4298—Coupling light guides with opto-electronic elements coupling with non-coherent light sources and/or radiation detectors, e.g. lamps, incandescent bulbs, scintillation chambers
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G21—NUCLEAR PHYSICS; NUCLEAR ENGINEERING
  • G21H—OBTAINING ENERGY FROM RADIOACTIVE SOURCES; APPLICATIONS OF RADIATION FROM RADIOACTIVE SOURCES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; UTILISING COSMIC RADIATION
  • G21H1/00—Arrangements for obtaining electrical energy from radioactive sources, e.g. from radioactive isotopes, nuclear or atomic batteries
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H10—SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID-STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
  • H10F—INORGANIC SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES SENSITIVE TO INFRARED RADIATION, LIGHT, ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION OF SHORTER WAVELENGTH OR CORPUSCULAR RADIATION
  • H10F77/00—Constructional details of devices covered by this subclass
  • H10F77/40—Optical elements or arrangements
  • H10F77/42—Optical elements or arrangements directly associated or integrated with photovoltaic cells, e.g. light-reflecting means or light-concentrating means
  • H10F77/484—Refractive light-concentrating means, e.g. lenses
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H10—SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID-STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
  • H10F—INORGANIC SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES SENSITIVE TO INFRARED RADIATION, LIGHT, ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION OF SHORTER WAVELENGTH OR CORPUSCULAR RADIATION
  • H10F77/00—Constructional details of devices covered by this subclass
  • H10F77/40—Optical elements or arrangements
  • H10F77/42—Optical elements or arrangements directly associated or integrated with photovoltaic cells, e.g. light-reflecting means or light-concentrating means
  • H10F77/488—Reflecting light-concentrating means, e.g. parabolic mirrors or concentrators using total internal reflection
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
  • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
  • F24S80/00—Details, accessories or component parts of solar heat collectors not provided for in groups F24S10/00-F24S70/00
  • F24S80/20—Working fluids specially adapted for solar heat collectors
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G02—OPTICS
  • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
  • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
  • G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
  • G02B6/26—Optical coupling means
  • G02B6/262—Optical details of coupling light into, or out of, or between fibre ends, e.g. special fibre end shapes or associated optical elements
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
  • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
  • Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
  • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
  • Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy
  • Y02E10/52—PV systems with concentrators

Definitions

• the present invention relates to a light collection apparatus and method that utilizes a number of light collectors, which collect light energy, each having a lens, having a spherical surface and optical fibers for directing the collected light to an energy transfer or a number of lighting fixtures.
• a plurality of fibers is disposed relative to a surface of the lens to optimize collection of light.
• U.S. Patent No. 4,529,830 issued to Daniel, involves an apparatus for collecting, distributing and utilizing solar radiation including a solar collection panel having an array of solar gathering cells which provide radiation to a light collecting unit, which provides radiation as a single beam to a lens system for providing a coherent beam to a lightpipe. This beam is then directed to use units such as a light to electricity converter, heat distributing elements and light distributing elements.
• U.S. Patent No. 4,943,125 issued to Laundre, et al.
• U.S. Patent No. 5,716,442 issued to Fertig is directed to a light pipe energy conservation system that includes: a plurality of photovoltaic cell arrays mounted on substances, and exterior transparent protective dome and reflector; a light concentrator means; a battery charge controller; and a rechargeable battery or plurality of batteries.
• U.S. Patent No. 4,078,548, issued to Kapany involves a solar panel that includes a window portion interposed between incident light and a heat absorbing portion, at least one of the heat absorbing and window portions having a plurality of spaced apart reflecting surfaces, separate ones of which face each other and transmit the incident light by multiple reflections to the heat absorbing portion.
• U.S. Patent No. 4,237,867, issued to Bauer is directed to solar energy absorbing means in solar collectors provided by marts of a fibrous material, which by its chemical composition absorbs solar radiation, for converting the solar energy
• 4,798,444 issued to McLean relates to a solar collection device used to maximize solar collection by a plurality of fixed collectors that concentrate all available sunlight on its surface into a single transfer conduit.
• the device uses fiber optics in pre-arranged and fixed arrays that will track the inclination of the sun's rays without moving by using a single directional convergent lens.
• U.S. Patent Nos. 5,019,768 and 5,223,781, both issued to Criswell, et al. pertain to a system for transmitting microwaves to one or more receiver assemblies.
• This system includes an array of separate microwave transmitting assemblies for emitting a plurality of microwave beams, the array being arranged to apparently fill a radiating aperture of predetermined shape and size when viewed from the direction of a receiver assembly, and a phase controlling assembly associated with the microwave transmitting assemblies for controlling the relative phase of the emitted beams to form at least one composite shaped microwave beam directed to at least one receiver assembly.
• U.S. Patent No. 5,500,054 issued to Goldstein is directed to a superemissive light pipe includes a photon transmitting optically transparent host having a body and oppositely arranged end portions.
• U.S. Patent No. 5,500,054 issued to Goldstein is directed to a superemissive light pipe includes a photon transmitting optically transparent host having a body and oppositely arranged end portions.
• the present invention was made in consideration of the above problems for providing a clean, efficient and reliable energy source.
• arrays of light converging lenses concentrate solar light, which is transmitted via optical fibers to power a steam turbine generator.
• arrays of light converging lenses concentrate solar light, which is transmitted via optical fibers to provide internal lighting and/or heating.
• Alternative power sources such as utility powered lighting may be used as a backup system for such internal lighting.
• a central lighting system is provided where collected light is distributed to a number of light fixtures.
• a lens that has a first portion, fabricated from a first material, with an associated index of refraction.
• the lens also has a second portion, fabricated from a second material, with an associated index of refraction.
• the index of refraction of the second material is higher than the index of refraction of the first material.
• the second material may surround the first material.
• additional portions of the lens may be fabricated from materials with associated indices of refraction.
• another embodiment of the present invention is directed to an apparatus for collecting energy.
• the apparatus includes a lens adapted to focus light received from a source of light; and a plurality of fibers, each fiber disposed in a first predetermined relationship to other fibers and each fiber disposed in a second predetermined relationship to the lens.
• the first predetermined relationship and the second predetermined relationship enable each fiber to have a specific energy collecting coefficient as a function of a shape of the lens and a position of the source of light.
• the present invention is also directed to an apparatus for collecting solar energy.
• the apparatus includes a lens for receiving solar energy, the lens having a curved surface portion.
• a plurality of fibers is arranged such that each fiber is disposed at a predetermined position relative to the curved surface portion of the lens.
• the predetermined position is a function of the focal point of the lens and each fiber has a maximum collection capability as a function of time.
• the invention accordingly comprises the several steps and the relation of one or more of such steps with respect to each of the others, and the apparatus embodying features of construction, combination(s) of elements and arrangement of parts that are adapted to effect such steps, all as exemplified in the following detailed disclosure, and the scope of the invention may be indicated in the claims. [0028]
• Figures IA and IB show the use of a convex lens and a spherical lens, respectively, for directing light rays into an optical fiber in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
• Figures 2A and 2B illustrate the geometry of the spherical lens of
• Figures 3A and 3B are views of the spherical lens of Figure IB including an interface for attaching to an array in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
• Figures 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D are diagrams illustrating the attachment of spherical light collection lenses to an array according to an embodiment of the invention;
• Figure 5 is an expanded view of the assembly of a mating adapter for connecting an optical fiber to a light collection lens in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
• Figures 6 A and 6B show the assembled mating adapter of Figure 5;
• Figures 7A and 7B are diagrams showing, respectively, the middle section and the bottom panel of the lens array of Figures 4A and 4B;
• Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating an interface for controlling the light energy output of a lens array in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• Figure 9 shows a cutoff switch for use in the interface of Figure 8 according to an embodiment of the invention.
• Figure 10 illustrates a generator system powered by collector lens arrays in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
• Figure 11 shows the use of collected light and light from a secondary source for centralized lighting in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
• Figure 12 illustrates a centralized lighting system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
• Figure 13 shows a multi-source lighting device according to the embodiment of the invention
• Figure 14 illustrates the beam control and light fixtures for use in the system of Figure 12 or the fixture of Figure 22 in accordance with respective embodiments of the invention
• Figures 15A and 15B are diagrams showing a light distribution apparatus and a light combiner, respectively, according to an embodiment of the invention
• Figures 16, 17, 18, and 19 illustrate heating devices in accordance with respective embodiments of the invention
• Figures 2OA and 2OB show a large-scale distiller and a small-scale distiller, respectively, according to an embodiment of the invention
• Figure 21 illustrates an electricity generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
• Figure 22 is a diagram showing a street lamp fixture according to an embodiment of the invention.
• Figure 23 shows a light source device for use in the system of Figure
• Figure 24 illustrates a light collection facility according to an embodiment of the invention
• Figure 25 shows a light collection configuration in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
• Figures 27 to 30 are diagrams and tables illustrating the principles for collecting solar light energy using the inventive design of the collection unit according to an embodiment of the invention.
• Figure 31 illustrates the advantages of using a multi-stage collection unit in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• Figures 32A to 32D are diagrams showing a collection unit according to respective embodiments of the invention.
• Figures 33A to 33C illustrate the interface between a collection unit and a transmission medium according to an embodiment of the invention
• Figures 34A to 34C are diagrams illustrating a collection unit according to an embodiment of the invention.
• Figure 35 shows a side view of a lens that can be used with a collection apparatus according to the present invention
• Figure 36 shows the interaction of light from the sun with the lens of the present invention
• Figure 37 shows a top view of a lens according to the present invention.
• Figure 38 shows a view of solar energy collection according to the present invention
• Figure 39 shows a side view of a plurality of fibers and a lens
• Figure 40 shows a side view of a plurality of fibers coupled together;
• Figure 41 shows a collection panel collecting solar energy;
• Figure 42 shows a perspective view of a collection apparatus according to the present invention.
• Figures IA and IB illustrate light collection by directing incoming light into an optical fiber, which may then transmit the collected light to transfer the collected energy , according to respective embodiments of the invention.
• a light collection system 100a may include a convex lens 105 and an optical fiber 110.
• incoming light 115 passing through convex lens 105 is bent inward, or made to converge, to a focal point 117 of lens 105 (the place where light rays 115 converge).
• Lens 105 may be made from a number of transparent materials, each with a corresponding index of refraction (denoted by the variable n).
• Optical fiber 110 may be placed at or near focal point 117 of lens 105 for collecting the converged light.
• Optical fiber 110 may be any light transmission medium that preserves the energy level (wavelength, intensity, etc.) of light transmitted therein.
• any type of fiber optic cable can be used (within reasonable parameters), fused silica and other high performance fibers are preferred over conventional plastic fiber. All types of fiber optic cable are highly efficient (minimal attenuation), with maximized efficiency less than two percent (2%) loss/km.
• optical fiber 110 may be bundled or solid core — although bundled fiber is preferred over thicker cable for increase flexibility.
• Fiber optics utilizes the physical principle of total internal reflection, which is 100% reflective. Thus, no energy is lost each time the light bounces on the wall of a fiber optic cable. The only energy lost is that which is absorbed into the material of the cable itself.
• Other types of light transmission media such as hollow light pipes coated with reflective material, may also be used. However, such pipes are bulky and inefficient, thus limiting the distance of transmission and utility.
• a point source is not optimal for light collection.
• optical fiber 110 may be place slightly closer to lens 105 than the focal distance (distance from lens 105 to focal point 117) thereof.
• Figure IB shows a modified light collection system 100b that utilizes a spherical lens 120 in place of convex lens 105 in Figure IA.
• spherical lens 120 acts as a converging lens on incoming light 115 in a similar manner to lens 105 by operation of lens section 125.
• Spherical lens 120 may further act as an aligned converging lens on incoming light rays 135 from a different direction by operation of lens section 130.
• spherical lens 120 may be effective in converging light rays 115 and 135 from different directions into fiber 110 without the need for realignment.
• lens 120 may be made from a number of transparent materials, each with a corresponding index of refraction (denoted by the variable n).
• n index of refraction
• Optical fiber 110 may be placed at or near focal point 117 of lens 105 for collecting the converged light.
• Figures 2 A and 2B are a side view and a top view of lens 120, respectively, to illustrate the spherical geometry of lens 120 and the convergence of lights 115, 135 and 205 from different directions to a center point 210 of the spherical outer surface 215 having a radius R of lens 120.
• lens section 125 converges light 115
• lens section 130 converges light 135
• lens section 217 converges light 205, respectively, with corresponding focal lengths 220, 225, and 230.
• spherical lens 120 allows for uniform geometry from any point of lens 120.
• lens 120 which may hereinafter also be referred to as a "Collector Unit” or a “Refractive Unit” or collection means according to an embodiment of the invention is a refractive unit, rather than a system of reflective mirrors and lenses which are bulky, difficult to maintain, and expensive. Refraction offers far higher efficiency than reflective mirrors (reflective mirrors require polishing which increases the overall cost of operation).
• a Refractive unit, i.e., lens 120 can be manufactured using a molding process (such as injection molding or vacuum molding), which is relatively inexpensive and efficient.
• the present invention allows for changing the characteristics of lens 120 by changing the index of refraction thereof rather than changing its curvature. As a result, manufacturing efficiency is increased where different units may still have the same shape made from the same mold.
• lens 120 may utilize multiple layers made up of materials with varying refractive indices.
• Figures 3 A and 3B show the side view and the bottom view, respectively, of lens 120 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• lens 120 may include a mating assembly 305 disposed on an assembly ring interface 310, which may be integrated to lens 120 or may be attached sections thereof, hi accordance with an embodiment of the invention, lens 120, mating assembly 305, and assembly ring interface 310 form a whole unit that is injection molded into one piece for ease of assembly and replacement.
• Assembly ring interface 310 may run along the circumferential base edge 315 of lens 120 for mounting lens 120 onto an array 405, as shown in Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C.
• lens 120 may be affixed to an array 405 that includes a number of lenses for collecting light.
• Figures 4 A and 4B illustrate the top view and the side view, respectively, of array 405.
• array 405 may include a top panel 410, a middle section 415, and a bottom panel 420 for securing multiple lenses (e.g., lens 120).
• Figure 4C shows the detailed assembly of affixing lens 120 to array
• Top panel 410 includes a circular opening 425 for fitting the spherical shape of lens 120 therethrough. Top panel 410 may also include threads 430 for securing an O-ring 435 and lens 120 by engaging corresponding threads 445 on a locking ring 440. Locking ring 440 may include handles 450 for turning and engaging threads 445 on locking ring 440 to threads 430 on top panel 410.
• Figure 4D includes a side view and a top view of locking ring 440 to illustrate threads 445 and handles 450. Referring back to Figures 4B and 4C 5 a mating adapter 455 may be used to attach fiber 110 to mating assembly 305 of lens 120.
• FIGs 5, 6A, and 6B show an expanded assembly view, a side view, and a top view, respectively, of mating adapter 455 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• mating adapter 455 includes a main body 505 having a center channel 510 that decreases in circumference and forms a circular ledge 512, screw threads 515 around the bottom of the inner wall of center channel 510, and openings 520 around the circumference of main body 505.
• center channel 510 houses a retractable pivot assembly 525 that secures fiber 110.
• Retractable pivot assembly 525 includes: a fiber clamp 530, a retaining ring 535, a ball joint 540, an assembly body 545, a clamp 550, a spring 555, a rubber stopper 560, and a bottom cap 565.
• Fiber 110 is fitted through a center channel 570 in rubber stopper 560, a center channel 575 in assembly body 545, and a center channel 580 in ball joint 540 up to fiber clamp 530, which may be tightened around fiber 110 to secure it in place by tightening a screw 585.
• Fiber clamp 530 may be screwed on (or otherwise attached) to ball joint 540 which is secured within assembly body 545 by securing retaining ring 535 to threads 590.
• retaining ring 535 may hold ball joint 540 within a cavity 595 in assembly body 545 in a manner that allows ball joint 540 to pivot, and, thus, account for manufacturing variations and thermal expansion.
• Assembly body 545 includes retaining rings 597 for engaging the inner wall of center channel 510 of main body 505.
• Clamp 550 secures fiber 110 to assembly body 545.
• Spring 555 and rubber stopper 560 provide engagement of retaining rings 597 to circular ledge 512 in center channel 510 by pushing against bottom cap 565.
• retractable pivot assembly 525 is fitted through center channel 510 of main body 505.
• Bottom cap 565 includes threads 605 and handles 610 for engaging threads 515.
• spring 555 pushes assembly body 545 up so that an upper retaining ring 597 is against ledge 512 in center channel 510.
• retractable pivot assembly 525 is secured in main body 505 of mating adapter 455.
• fiber 110 clamped in fiber clamp 530 may form the target area for lens 120 when mating adapter 455 is attached to mating assembly 305.
• ball joint 540 may pivot to account for manufacturing variations and thermal expansion.
• top surface 640 of mating adaptor 455, which includes an input for collected light into fiber 110 is pivoted to engage the bottom surface of lens 120 at center point 210.
• a spring 615 pushes a ball 620 against a retaining plate 625 that is attached to main body 505 (e.g., screwed into place by engaging threads on openings 520).
• a part of ball 620 protrudes on the outer surface of main body 505.
• the outward pressure provided by spring 615 allows for engaging 630 (or ball 620) to corresponding notches in mating assembly 305.
• mating adapter 455 may be easily and securely attached to and detached from mating assembly 305.
• the connection between fiber 110 and lens 120 is thus sealed from external interference (such as dust, moisture, etc.).
• one or more photo sensors may be mounted on mating adapter 455 for measuring light input in fiber 110. Temperature sensors (not shown) may also be included in main body 505, assembly body 545, or any part of mating adapter 455 to monitor the temperature and determine the effectiveness of light collection. [0081] By monitoring the temperature of mating adapter 455, it may be determined whether light is being converged into fiber 110 effectively or whether incoming light is at an angle such that light is not reaching fiber 110. As will be described in further detail below, array 405 may include a system for changing the angle of the attached lens (including lens 120) to maximize collection of incoming light. Thus, temperature sensors may be used for determining the angle of the incoming light, and thereby adjusting the angle of array 405.
• lens 120 is secured to array 405 where mating adapter 455 secures fiber 110 to the target area at center point 210 of lens 120 by engaging mating assembly 305.
• Fiber guides 460 are disposed between top panel 410 and middle section 415 of array 405 for guiding fiber 110 along array 405.
• Figure 7 A illustrates the top view of middle section 415.
• fiber guides 460 guide fiber 110 to an array control 705 and a fiber control interface 710 for array 405.
• Figure 7B shows bottom panel 420 where a locking mechanism 715 and a hinge 720 provide for opening and closing an access panel 725 and allowing access to the interior of array 405.
• FIG 8 illustrates fiber control interface 710 for controlling the energy output of fiber 110 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• interface 710 may include a fiber input 805 where fibers from the lenses on array 405 (including fiber 110 from lens 120) are connected through a cutoff switch 810 to a fiber output 815, which may be connected to a power system, a lighting system, etc.
• cut-off switch 810 provides for turning on and off fiber output 815 according to an embodiment of the present invention, m other words, the light collected at array 405 may be turned on and off using cut-off switch 810.
• Fiber control interface 710 may also includes a system for cooling array 405 and cut-off switch 810. As shown in Figure 8, interface 710 may include an air intake 820 where cool exterior air is drawn in by a fan 825. The drawn-in air may be directed through an air bypass 830 to the interior of array 405 and through a master duct 835 to cut-off switch 810. Fan 825 may be controlled by a microprocessor 840, which may also control cut-off switch 810 through an electrical switch control 842. Microprocessor 840 may be powered by an electrical bus 845 connected to array 405.
• Electrical bus 845 may be connected to one or more solar cells (not shown) in array 405 for converting solar energy to electrical power needed to power microprocessor 840, fan 825, cut-off switch 810, etc.
• Cut-off switch 810 may be connected to an array of thermal photo-voltaic ("TPV") cells 850 that can be an alternative source of power when array 405 is switched off.
• TSV thermal photo-voltaic
• the heat exhaust from cooling array 405 and cut-off switch 810 may be passed out through a vent 860.
• Figure 9 illustrates cut-off switch 810 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• cut-off switch 810 may include a prism 905.
• prism 905 may include a reflective surface 910.
• Figure 9 shows cut-off switch 810 in an "on" position where prism 905 is slid out of the path of the light passing through from fiber input 805 to fiber output 815.
• microprocessor 840 controls drive motor 915 to turn worm gear 920 to slide prism 905 into the path (or line of sight) between fiber input 805 and fiber output 815.
• prism 905 may deflect (by refraction and/or reflection) the collected light from array 405 onto TPV cells 850 where the energy may be converted and stored in a storage device (not shown), such as a battery and the like.
• TPV cells 850 may include a heat sink 930 to prevent overheating. It is noted that any type of energy absorbing cells (e.g., photo-voltaic cell) may be used to convert and store the light energy deflected by prism 905 when cut-off switch 810 is turned off.
• TPV cells 850 are preferred because they are effective in converting a full range of visible and infra-red lights and are also effective in converting heat energy, whereas other types of cells may have much lower tolerances for heat.
• TPV Systems offer unprecedented efficiency (20Ox) when compared to normal photovoltaic systems. Highly increased efficiency allows TPV module to be extremely portable and powerful.
• a TPV System converts all available wavelengths into electrical energy unlike PV systems, which only utilize select wavelengths. According to the Second Law of Thermodynamics, the entropy of a system and its environment always increases. All forms of light will be converted into heat and used by the TPV cells, thus allowing for generation of both light and electrical power.
• an alternative energy source may complete the TPV system by providing infra-red, or heat, to TPV cells when solar energy is not available.
• cut-off switch 810 When cut-off switch 810 is turned “on,” the light collected at array 405 is passed through to fiber output 815.
• fiber output 815 may be connected to a power generation system 1000.
• the light at fiber output 815 maybe directed to beam dispersion inputs 1005 of a conversion chamber 1010.
• the light is, thus dispersed to a fluid-filled container 1015 in conversion chamber 1010.
• the fluid may be any type of heat conducting medium.
• Container 1015 may include reflective interior walls so that the light from beam dispersion inputs 1005 is reflected back into the fluid in container 1015.
• the fluid in container 1015 may include suspended particles of carbon that absorb the dispersed solar light. It is noted that the liquid may include any type of light absorbing media and is not limited to carbon particles.
• the carbon particles heat the fluid in conversion chamber 1010.
• the heated fluid is pumped to a heat exchanger 1020 where it is used to heat and boil water 1025 to create steam 1030. As a result, the fluid is cooled at heat exchange 1020, and pumped back into conversion chamber 1010 to be reheated.
• a pump 1035 may be used to pump the fluid between conversion chamber 1010 and heat exchanger 1020.
• Steam 1030 from heat exchanger 1020 is directed to and turns a steam turbine 1040 connected to a generator 1045. Power is thereby generated.
• the steam is then passed through a condenser 1050 where the exhaust heat from steam 1030 is recycled or expelled.
• the resulting water is pumped back to heat exchanger 1020 by a water pump 1055.
• the waste heat from cooling the steam in condenser 1050 may be directed to TPV cells 850 for generating reserve power to be used when array 405 is unavailable or turned "off.” (It is noted that water 1025 may be directly heated by a light absorbing medium, whereby collected light may be direct to said medium.)
• generator 1045 may be used as a reliable power source, hi accordance with an embodiment of the invention, generator 1045 may be a stand alone power source for a home, an industrial level power source for servicing one or more industrial facilities, a commercial power plant, etc.
• a further advantage of power generation system 1000 is that it may be combined with any other types of power systems.
• a traditional fossil fuel generator may be used to heat water 1025 or power generator 1045 in combination with power system 1000.
• fiber output 815 from control interface 710 may be connected to a central lighting beam control apparatus 1100, as shown in Figure 11.
• Beam control apparatus 1100 may include a secondary light source 1105, which may be a high efficiency interior light source powered by an independent power source other than the power generation system of the present invention.
• secondary light source 1105 may be a high intensity discharge xenon light, a fluorescent tube, a sodium vapor high-output light, a light emitting diode (“LED”), a halogen lamp (which may be boosted for color balance), a standard light bulb, etc.
• apparatus 1100 and light source 1105 are modular and replaceable.
• a microprocessor 1110 may be included to control an amount and/or characteristic (e.g., the color balance) of light at lighting output 1115 in accordance with lighting requirements by controlling a liquid crystal display (“LCD”) 1120.
• LCD liquid crystal display
• a beamsplitter 1125 may be included to split the outputted light at lighting output 1115 to a number of lighting fixtures. Control may be based on user input and the amount and/or characteristic (e.g. color balance) of light available from fiber output 815. Accordingly, microprocessor 1110 may control the amount and/or characteristic (e.g., color balance) of light from fiber output 815 and secondary source 1115 outputted at lighting output 1115.
• Figure 13 illustrates alternative source apparatus 1210 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As shown in Figure 13, alternative source apparatus 1210 may be formed by a tube 1302 that includes a light source 1305, which may be powered by an external source 1310, such as conventional utility power. Tube 1302 may include a reflective inner surface.
• Light source 1305 may be a high intensity discharge xenon light, a fluorescent tube, a sodium vapor high- output light, a light emitting diode ("LED"), a halogen lamp (which may be boosted for color balance), a standard light bulb, etc.
• a heat conductor 1312 may be connected to light source 1305 to prevent overheating. In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, heat conductor 1312 may direct the heat from light source 1305 to TPV cells 850 for storing the energy.
• Alternative source apparatus 1210 may further include a headlight-like reflector 1315 for reflecting the light from light source 1305 to form a parallel beam across tube 1302.
• a dish-type collector 1320 reflects the beam from reflector 1315 to a focal point reflector 1325, where the focused reflection is directed to an output to fiber 1215.
• An attachment mechanism, e.g., screw threads, 1330 may be included for easy detachment of reflector 1315 from tube 1302 so that light source 1305 maybe replaced with ease.
• fiber 1215 is connected to beam control switch 1205.
• Beam control switch 1205 according to an embodiment of the invention will now be described in detail. As shown in Figure 14, beam control switch 1205 includes an input 1405 from fiber output 815 (i.e., array 405) and an input 1410 from fiber output 1215 (i.e., alternative source apparatus).
• the light received at inputs 1405 and 1410 are combined to a thick fiber 1415.
• a one-way reflecting or semi-reflecting coating 1420 may be disposed at the input of thick fiber 1415 to prevent light from leaking back to inputs 1405 and 1410.
• An "LCD” 1425 may be disposed at thick fiber 1415 to provide red, green, and blue light filtering for color correction of light, dimming of fixtures, and brightness control.
• the light passing through LCD 1425 enters beamsplitter 1235 and/or 1240 where it is split to a number of output fibers leading to respective lighting fixtures, as shown in Figure 12. Fixtures 1250 and 1260 are also illustrated in Figure 14.
• fixture 1250 maybe a flood light having spherical geometry for eliminating chromatic aberration, and made with highly refractive material to ensure maximum dispersion.
• Fixture 1250 may further include a reflective (e.g., silver) inner coating for maximum light projection.
• An LED or Organic Light Emitting Diode (“OLED") 1430 may be mounted at the periphery of fixture 1250 to provide night time and/or low level illumination. LED or OLED 1430 may be independently powered or powered by the system of the present invention.
• fixture 1260 may be a spot light having reflectors 1435 and 1440.
• Fixture 1260 may also include an LED or OLED 1445 for night time and/or low level illumination.
• Fixtures 1250 and 1260 may each also include a photosensor 1450 and 1455, respectively, for measuring the light outputted. Since beamsplitter 1235/1240 disperses light evenly to its connected fixtures, only one photosensor 1450/1455 may be needed for each group of fixtures (e.g., 1245 and 1250, or 1255 and 1260). Light measurement data is forwarded back to a microprocessor 1460 of beam control switch 1205. Based on the light measurement data received from various photosensors (1450/1455), microprocessor 1460 controls LCD 1425 and secondary (internal) source 1210 to control the amount and property of light provided to the corresponding fixtures (1245 and 1250/1255 and 1260).
• Microprocessor 1460 may be powered by collectors (405) and/or a secondary power source 1465.
• the central lighting systems illustrated by Figures 11 to 14 may be used in any residential, commercial, or industrial systems. Increased benefits of such central lighting systems include: less bulky, easier to change lights, reflects bad light waves, safer (reduces the amount of electrical wiring in a building, reducing risk from a short circuit), power saver. Infrared radiation is absorbed to produce energy, instead of being reflected or absorbed as waste and heat. Visible light is directed and used as lighting. [0094] Furthermore, systems 1100 and 1200 may be used to generate power as well as light. Systems 1100 and 1200 are modular allowing easy installation, removal and maintenance.
• the modular light capture chambers allows light sources (e.g., 1305) to be located in a convenient location instead of difficult to reach fixtures.
• Light Capture chambers e.g. 1240
• Existing systems use shades, lamp covers or fixtures to obtain the desired brightness and direction. These older systems allow for much waste compared to systems 1100 and 1200 according to the respective embodiments of the invention.
• the light collection methods and apparatuses of the present invention make use of sunlight as a renewable natural resource that can generate energy for large-scale operations, such as power plants, on a more efficient and less waste producing method than currently used solar thermal systems.
• Collector arrays (405) are highly scalable and modular. Minimizing maintenance and expansion costs. Large numbers of collector arrays (405) channel solar energy, via fiber optics (110), to a conversion chamber (1010, Figure 10). Conversion chamber (1010) may be filled with conductive heat absorbing liquid with light absorbing media (i.e., oil with suspended carbon powder). This concentrates the greatest amount of energy in the smallest amount of space and minimizes loss through insulation. This heated fluid is then pumped though a heat exchanger (1020) that boils water. The resulting steam is used to drive a turbine (1040) and produce electricity. The amount of piping used is kept to a minimum and not strewn about the entire facility. There is substantial savings in maintenance and far less piping, thus minimizing energy losses. As mentioned before, the water may be heated directly by light absorbing media.
• light absorbing media i.e., oil with suspended carbon powder
• Solar Furnaces may also utilize large-scale mirrors that are focused onto a single point. They are not scalable and quickly reach a maximum number of mirrors, after which any increase in the number of mirrors will have limited benefit. These "mirror furnaces" require a high level of maintenance with mechanical tracking systems and highly polished mirrors. Parabolic Solar concentrators suffer from the same problems as mirror furnaces, although not as pronounced. However, parabolic systems are not nearly as efficient as mirror furnaces because of energy loss through piping. Piping is very failure prone due to thermal expansion and contraction. Flat Solar Concentrators as exhibited in Patent No. 4,078,548 Kapany require large amounts of insulation and are not efficient enough for large-scale operations. They are typically used as pool water heaters and solar water heaters. They also suffer from piping problems. Freezing temperatures can also rupture these pipes. Furthermore, phase changes in systems of the present invention result in increased efficiency (e.g., when water in the piping reaches boiling point, the steam is substantially more efficient in turning turbine 1040).
• FIG. 15A illustrates a control distribution system 1500 including a fiber input combiner 1505 for combining a number of fibers from respective light collectors/arrays (405) into an output for beam control unit 1510.
• Beam control unit 1510 may be controlled by a microprocessor 1515 that includes a number of data inputs 1520 for setting control parameters for controlling the amount, characteristics, etc., of light outputted to respective devices by beam control unit 1510.
• fiber input combiner 1505 may simply be multiple fibers combining into a single fiber where the light, or "signals," of the respective multiple fibers are combined into the single fiber. As a result of such combinations, energy density per fiber may be increased while reducing the number of fibers per bundle needed. Other methods of combining fibers may also be used (e.g., thick fiber 1415 in beam control 1205 as shown in Figure 14).
• FIG 16 illustrates a heater 1600 utilizing light collected using one or more arrays (405) of light collection units (120).
• heater 1600 may include a water/air heat exchanger 1605 for transferring heat from water to air.
• Water from a solar boiler (not shown) that is heated using collected light may be exposed to cool air drawn in from an intake 1610 at water/air heat exchanger 1605.
• Water/air heat exchanger 1605 may simply be a length of heat conducting water pipe(s) for exposing and transferring the heat from the water within to the surrounding air, thus producing heated air at an air output 1615. Water outputted from water/air heat exchanger 1605 may be returned to the solar boiler (not shown) for reheating.
• a gas burner 1620 may be used as a secondary system for heating the water in water/air heat exchanger 1605 and/or the air at output 1615 directly.
• water/air heat exchanger 1605 may be realized using condenser 1050 of electrical power system 1000 shown in Figure 10 (where steam chamber 1020 is the input source of heated water).
• Heater 1600 shown in Figurel6 may be used as a centralized heating system for a home, a commercial or industrial building, etc. It may also be implemented in a standalone heating apparatus, such as a dryer, a heater, a cooker, etc. where heated air is used.
• FIG 17 illustrates a solar oven 1700 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• solar oven 1700 may include a fiber input 1705 and a dispersion lens 1710, where the collected light, for example, from array 405 is dispersed to a light absorbing medium, e.g., carbon/ceramic substrate (which is non-reflective, in contrast to a lighting fixture) 1715 for absorbing the light dispersed from dispersion lens 1710.
• Substrate 1715 may be enclosed in an outer insulation 1720 for preventing heat from escaping.
• a safety cover 1725 may be provided for preventing injury by direct contact.
• radiant heat 1730 from substrate 1715 maybe effective in heating an oven chamber (not shown).
• Solar oven 1700 may be a standalone apparatus relying upon solar energy, or it may be integrated to a gas or electrical oven to form a hybrid having multiple energy sources, rn addition, oven temperature may be controlled by adjusting the amount and characteristic of light at input 1705 and/or adjusting one or more such alternative energy sources.
• FIG 18 shows a water heater (furnace or boiler) 1800 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• water heater 1800 includes a cold water intake 1805 where cold water is directed through a heating chamber 1810 to a hot water output 1815.
• Heating chamber 1810 may include carbon pellets and/or any other suitable type(s) of substrate for absorbing light dispersed by dispersion lens 1820.
• the pellets (or substrate) in heating chamber 1810 thus, heats the water from intake and the heated water is outputted at output 1815.
• a temperature sensor 1825 may be included at output 1815 for providing a feedback signal to a temperature controller 1830 for controlling the amount and characteristic of light used for heating chamber 1810.
• Insulation 1835 may be used to prevent heat from escaping heating chamber 1810.
• Filter screens 1840 may be used to contain the carbon pellets (or substrate), thus, forming heating chamber 1810.
• one or more fibers carrying high-intensity collected light may be connected to an input 1905 of a spherical reflective furnace chamber 1910 with a semi-silver dispersion lens 1915 disposed at input 1905 for dispersing the collected light into furnace chamber 1910.
• Extremely high temperatures may be achieved by inputting high-intensity collected light into such a reflective furnace chamber 1910. Consequently, such furnace chamber 1910 may be used for any high-temperature application, such as disposing of waste, smelting ore, etc.
• collector arrays (405) may be connected to a boiler 2005 to form a solar distiller/desalination apparatus 2000, as illustrated in Figures 2OA and 2OB.
• Figure 2OA shows a large- scale distiller 2020
• Figure 2OB illustrates a smaller-scale (e.g., household) distiller 2010 for providing drinking water.
• collector arrays 2015 are connected to a power distribution system 2020.
• Collector arrays 2015 and power distribution system 2000 may be similar to those of the previously described embodiments (e.g., 405, and 710, respectively) of the present invention.
• the power outputted from power distribution system 2020 may heat boiler 2005 having a water input (which may include any type of water source, e.g., salt water for desalination) 2025 where steam so generated is directed to a distiller.
• condenser 1050 shown in Figure 10 may also form a distiller via an output 2030.
• distilled water may be condensed from the excess steam from turning turbine 1040 and outputted for use, and an external water source (not shown) maybe used to supply steam chamber 1020.
• an external water source (not shown) maybe used to supply steam chamber 1020.
• tq an on/off switch 2035, which may be similar to cut-off switch 810 shown in Figure 9.
• the output of on/off switch 2035 may be connected to an insulated canister 2040 with reflective interior walls that can be opened and closed for supplying water thereto.
• Canister 2040 may contain carbon pellets or the like (any light absorbing substrate) 2045 for absorbing the collected light from arrays 2015 and heating water to generate steam.
• the steam from canister 2040 may, then, be directed to a condenser 2050 and then, a clean water reservoir 2055.
• TPV power modules may be used for electrical power generation.
• a TPV power generation system 2100 may include a number of slots 2105, 2110, and 2115 for housing a TPV power module 2120.
• Each TPV power module 2120 connected to respective slots 2105, 2110, and 2115 may convert collected light from fiber inputs 2125 into electrical energy, which is then outputted to a power inverter 2130.
• Power inverter 2130 may, then, convert the Direct Current (DC) power from the TPV power modules (2120) into Alternating Current (AC) output power 2135.
• TPV power module 2120 may operate in a manner similar to cut-off switch 810 shown in Figure 9 in the "off position.
• TPV power module 2120 may include a dispersion prism 2140 for dispersing input light onto TPV cells 2145.
• a reflective layer may be disposed on the back surface of prism 2140 for preventing light from escaping and reflecting substantially all light onto TPV cells 2145.
• a carbon (or another type) substrate 2155 may be disposed adjacent TPV cells 2145 for absorbing any remaining spectra of light and radiating the resulting heat onto TPV cells 2145. The energy received by TPV cells 2145 may, thus, be converted into DC electrical power, which is outputted to power inverter 2130 via output 2160.
• An exhaust fan 2165 may be used to draw cool air in from air input 2170 through heat sink 2175 to air output 2180 for cooling TPV cells 2145 and for preventing overheating.
• TPV power modules (2120) may be large-sized modules for industrial and large-scale commercial applications. TPV power (2120) modules may also be portable, powerful and cost effective, for residential and/or small-scale commercial use. As noted herein, TPV cells are approximately 200 times more efficient than standard PVs and convert substantially all wavelengths into electrical energy. Thus, the use of TPV power modules (2120) in TPV power generation system 2120 may be one alternative to power system 1000 shown in Figure 10. Although, as mentioned, herein, while TPV cells are extremely expensive, their increased efficiency can usually justify the increase in cost.
• TPV modules are scaleable to virtually any application (i.e., Kilowatt, Megawatt).
• an alternative energy source such as an integrated gas/oil burner, may complete TPV system 2100 by providing infra-red, or heat, to TPV cells 2145 when sufficient solar energy is not available.
• a street lamp 2200 may include one or more collection lens(es) 2205 with a fiber output 2210 to a power converter and controller (not shown), which may be a centralized or regional controller. Collection lens(es) 2205 maybe similar to lens 120 as shown in Figure 2. Thus, lens(es) 2205 may also be similar to array 405 and the like.
• Light energy may be converted to electrical power in accordance with the present invention whereupon it is directed to a collection chamber 2215.
• Collection chamber 2215 may be realized using source 1210 of Figure 13 or source 1100 of Figure 11 where light from a light source (e.g., a lamp or light bulb) may be focused into a fiber 2220 and directed to a light fixture 2225 of street lamp 2200.
• a light source e.g., a lamp or light bulb
• the light source in collection chamber 2215 is located at the base of street lamp 2200, and maintenance is eased substantially (i.e., a light bulb can be changed at the base of street lamp 2200).
• Street lamp 2200 according to the present invention may also improve safety because collection lens 2205 and light fixture 2225 may be made from relatively lightweight material.
• collection chamber 2215 may be realized using source 1210 of Figure 13 or source 1100 of Figure 11.
• Figure 23 illustrates collection chamber 2215 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• a light source (e.g., light bulb) 2305 may be mounted onto a detachable fixture 2310 that may be affixed to collection chamber 2215.
• Fixture 2310 may include an external LED 2315 for indicating a failure of light source (light bulb) 2305 and, thus, signaling for maintenance.
• light source 2305 may be mounted at a center point of a focusing reflector 2320 for reflecting parallel beams of light 2322 from light source 2305.
• Collection chamber 2215 may include a primary lens 2325, and may further include a secondary lens 2330 for focusing the parallel beams of light 2332 from focusing reflector 2320 into a fiber interface 2335.
• a teardrop-shaped reflector 2340 may be disposed around primary lens 2325 and/or secondary lens 2330 to collect ambient (or scattered) light into fiber interface 2335.
• collection chamber 2215 may utilize, for example, source 1210 of Figure 13 or source 1100 of Figure 11.
• collection chamber 2215 may be used as secondary source 1210 in centralized lighting system 1200 shown in Figure 12 or source 1100 of Figure 11.
• fiber interface 2335 may be connected to a centralized lighting controller, such as controller 1205 as shown Figure 12, or any reflector fixture, for example, light fixture 2125 shown in Figure 22, through one or more optical fibers.
• collection chamber 2215 may include reflective material throughout its interior surfaces.
• Light source 2305 may be a standardized light bulb for easy replacement and minimized cost, thus allowing for wide-spread use.
• the size and power (or voltage) of fixture 2310 may be altered to support different types of light source 2305 e.g., industrial sodium vapor, standard, halogen, or fluorescent lighting.
• Collection chamber 2215 is typically modular such that multiple chambers may be used in a system for lighting an area, such as a building, warehouse or stadium. Thus, lighting capacity of such a system can easily be adjusted by changing the number of chambers, thereby allowing flexible customization of lighting systems for various applications and lighting needs.
• collection chamber 2215 Another advantage of collection chamber 2215 is that it allows for light source 2305 to be placed in a separate and accessible area for easy maintenance and for preventing heat buildup where lighting is needed.
• fixtures may be located in hard-to-reach places for lighting an area, and maintenance need not be performed at these places but instead can be performed at chamber 2215 (which may be placed in a basement room or the like).
• heat from light source 2305 is substantially insulated from the lighted area. It is noted that the power/lighting/heating systems and apparatuses of the present invention may be used in all types of applications in all types of settings.
• the light collection method may be used for a desert-based power/heating plant (in., e.g., Arizona, Spain, Australia, beach or ocean-side location, etc.), a power/heating system for mountainous areas (e.g., ski-lodges or hiking lodges in the Rockies, Alps, etc.), a desalination facility for water supply, etc.
• a desert-based power/heating plant in., e.g., Arizona, Spain, Australia, beach or ocean-side location, etc.
• a power/heating system for mountainous areas e.g., ski-lodges or hiking lodges in the Rockies, Alps, etc.
• a desalination facility for water supply etc.
• FIG. 24 illustrates a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention where the light collection method is implemented in a modified, power generator or self-powered oil rig 2400.
• power generator/oil rig 2400 may include arrays 2405 of light collection (120) that are connected to and a heat a solar turbine to generate electrical power (to shore or to self-power) or a drill rig directly.
• a cooling tower 2415 may be included to prevent overheating.
• Solar furnace 2410 may also be used for desalination (fish water supply).
• Power cables (not shown) and/or optic fibers for transmitting collected light may be connected to shore for supplying power, light, heat, etc., to shore.
• FIG 25 illustrates a configuration of array 405 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• array 405 may be tilted to an angle for optimal light collection and/or for fitting the surroundings.
• array 405 may be place on a slanted roof of a residence.
• a cover (not shown) may be placed over array 405 or individual collectors (102) to prevent damage or buildup of interfering particles (e.g. dirt, snow, debris, etc.)
• FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a solar-boosted fusion assembly 2600 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• a multiple lens system 2605 may be used to focus light from one or more fibers 2610, which may be a collection of fibers such as fiber 110 and/or fiber output 815, into a focal point 2615 where a deuterium bead may be placed.
• a large array (405) having a large number of lenses (120) may be used to utilize solar thermal energy to assist a fusion reaction.
• a high intensity burst of concentrated solar energy which may be focused using lens system 2605, may be used to initiate a reaction in deuterium bead (2615).
• Unused light may be recaptured by a collector 2620, which may be similar to lens 120, apparatus 1100, apparatus 1210, or a combination thereof.
• Collector 2620 may also be realized by collector 3100 as will be described herein with reference to Figures 32A, 32B, 32C, and 32D. [0116] Examples of principles for collecting solar light energy using the inventive design of lens 120 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention will now be described in detail.
• the determination of the overall dimensions of the optics lens collector 120 may be accomplished through ray tracing. It has been determined that conventional methods of solving this thick lens optics problem using the thick lens equations based on thin lens equations proves to be inadequate due to drastic assumptions made. The methods determined not valid are the Gaussian and
• Newtonian forms of the lens equations Both are derived for thin lenses, but can be used for thick lens approximations only.
• a thick lens calculation is included.
• the position of given objects, in this case the sun, is formed by successive applications of the reflection and refraction at spherical surfaces.
• the premise of the following thick lens calculation is based off of the following simple optics theory. More appropriately called trigonometric, or geometrical optics. This includes incident rays parallel to the axis and incident rays taken with respect to the horizon.
• trigonometric, or geometrical optics This includes incident rays parallel to the axis and incident rays taken with respect to the horizon.
• a decisive thin film is chosen to promote higher efficiency due to a higher transmission of light energy. The less that is reflected the more that is transferred, etc.
• anti-reflective coating similar to those used in eyeglasses and other optics can be applied to minimize losses through reflection that occurs at the incident points throughout the collector system (i.e., collector unit surface, between layers, at the fiber interface point, the collection chamber, etc.).
• the travel of light through a surface (or interface) that separates two media is called refraction, and the light is said to be refracted.
• refraction Unless an incident beam of light is perpendicular to a surface, refraction by the surface changes the light's direction of travel. The beam is said to be "bent” by refraction. Bending results only at the surface resulting in an incident ray and reflected ray. Each ray is oriented to a line perpendicular to the surface called the "normal".
• the Fresnel bright spot is a composite of the diffraction patterns of airborne water drops.
• the refracted wave fronts are not spherical; therefore, they do not all intersect at a common focal point. This is better known as spherical aberration. Error results in large angles of incidence.
• Small incident angle known as paraxial rays, are assumed once the trigonometric equations become generalized into the algebraic equations.
• the algebraic equations assume the small angle assumption of the series expansion of sin ⁇ (higher order terms are neglected). ⁇ ⁇ 3! 5! ( 6 )
• a film thickness of 1 A the wavelength of green/yellow (the wavelength of a candle flame) light would be appropriate reducing the loss of light energy through reflection by about 4 to 5 percent.
• Gas refraction cavities may also provide an alternative in this category.
• Figure 27 shows an example of a spherical lens, as used for lens 120, for illustrating thick lens optics as employed in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
• at (spherical) surface 01 and at (flat) surface 02:
• the second focal point F' lies 10.37883 cm to the right of the second vertex (lens surface two). In this specific case the vertex is the center of curvature. Note, however, that the thick lens calculation is accurate only within the small angle series expansion approximation stated above (angles of approximately fifteen degrees (15°) or less).
• Figures 28A, 28B, 28C, and 28D form a table showing the results of angle calculations for a spherical lens, e.g., lens 120, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, as illustrated by Figures 27, 29, and 30.
• Figure 29 shows a quarter sphere lens for illustrating geometric calculations therefor.
• Figure 30 shows a hemisphere lens for illustrating geometric generalized calculation for any angle ⁇ .
• a hemispherical collector such as lens 120, of dimension radius of approximately 6 centimeters (cmj to 61 centimeters (cm) maybe preferable.
• the optimal index of refraction for a 6 cm lens based on the data collected from Figures 27 to 30 is 1.41.
• the optimal focal region resides within the following limits of this lens: 8 cm to 10 cm. This proves effective, as an acceptable range of adjustment is needed to optimize each series of collectors.
• a sensor of 1 cm should properly detect incident ray angles of 68° to 120° from the horizon. This reveals the actual angle of usable exposure to be a cone of 44°. This correlates to approximately 2.93 hrs of active exposure.
• multiple lenses may be used, instead of a single lens (120), for improved precision in focusing incoming light similar to lens system 2605 shown in Figure 26.
• a significant drawback of the multi-lens system 2605 is that it may be bulky and may require high precision optics, which can be expensive and/or intolerant to variations in temperature and vibration. In such cases, the focus within the lens system may be adversely affected.
• Multi-layered lens 3105 may include a first layer 3110 including a material having a refractive index of U 1 and a second layer 3115 including a material having a refractive index of n 2 .
• Lens 3105 is preferably a single refractive unit with its layers injection molded so that it may be resistant to thermal variation. Furthermore, since lens 3105 is a single unit, it does not require any sealing. Thus, lens 3105 maybe used in place of lens 120 and/or collector 2620. [0139] Lens 3105 having multiple stages (or layers) (3110 and 3115) with varying optical properties allow for improved operating angle and tighter focusing, i.e., higher efficiency. Each stage (layer) of lens system may be accounted for using the mathematical description provided above.
• n index of refraction
• the index of refraction (n) would dictate the radius of a unit (radius) which may be equal to the focus length of a lens. Unit has a single focal point from any point of origin above the critical angle, thus it is self-focusing.
• a Fiber optic cable (e.g., 110) secured at the focal point (origin of sphere) may be positioned to gather all solar energy (visible light and infrared wavelengths). Refraction bends both visible and infrared waves. The principle of total internal reflection prevents the unit from functioning when the light source falls below a critical angle, which varies by the n.
• the outermost layer (e.g., 3110) of the unit may have the lowest n (with the lowest critical angle) and each successive layer (e.g., 3115) may have a higher n for increased focusing ability (while minimizing the radius of the unit 3105).
• This design allows the unit (3105) to be very compact and also have minimal operating constraint (critical angle) and superior resolving capability due to its consecutive internal layers (smaller 'lenses' have a more precise focus).
• the unit (3105) may be constructed from multiple materials, as exhibited in the multistage collector. In order to increase operating angles and prevent energy losses from the critical angle, a multiple of materials can be used in one lens.
• a multistage collector allows for tighter focus of incoming light, increased operational angle, and improved energy concentration while minimizing the size of the unit. Since multiple materials are bonded to be a single unit the device is compact, maintenance free and extremely durable, as well as being immune to thermal variations, which can affect the resolving performance of existing systems due to expansion and contraction.
• Figures 32A, 32B, 32C, and 32D illustrate a collector assembly 3100 for using multi-layered lens 3105 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Collector 3100 may be used for the functionality of lens 120 and/or collector 2620.
• lens 3105 may further include a final stage 3120 at the focal point of lens 3105.
• Final stage 3120 according to an embodiment of the invention will be described in further detail with reference to Figures 33 A, 33B, 33C, and 33D.
• a Fresnel lens 3125 may be placed below lens 3105 for focusing ambient light that has not been focused to final stage 3120.
• Figure 32B is abottom view illustrating a view of Fresnel lens 3125.
• Fresnel lens 3125 may be integrated to lens 3105 as a single unit (which may be inj ection or vacuum molded.)
• a tube 3130 for carrying fiber (110) may include a reflective surface for trapping light into the fiber (110).
• Collector unit 3100 may further include a rear collector 3135, which may be cone shaped (i.e., forming a frustum of a cone), with a reflective (e.g., silver) inner surface for reflecting ambient light that is not focused to final stage 3120 into tube 3130 and the fiber (110) carried therein.
• cone-shaped rear collector 3135 may continuously reflect ambient light towards tube 3130 down to the bottom thereof (e.g., similar to a funnel) where fiber 110 is output.
• a transparent section 3140 may further be included to act as a focusing lens to concentrate all light collected by rear collector 3135 to fiber 110.
• the reflective area of rear collector 3135 may be defined by
• rl is the radius of the larger circle (top circle at interface with lens 3105 and Fresnel lens 3125); r2 is the radius of the smaller circle (the bottom circle where fiber 110 is output); and h is the height of the cone section (rear collector 3135).
• Fresnel lens 3125 may further focus light minimizing a number of reflections ("bounces") on rear collector 3135 before the ambient light reaches tube 3130 and the fiber (110) carried therein, thus maximizing the power transferred to the fiber (110).
• FIG 32D illustrates collector assembly 3100 with a varying number stages (or layers) (and thickness of each of such stages) for its collector lens 3105.
• collectors lens 3105 may include a number of stages (or layers) a and b, etc. down to final stage 3120.
• n avg the average of the n's (indexes of refraction) of the stages
• lens 3105 may have a substantially reduced critical angle and better focus.
• a higher n avg would allow for a smaller lens 3105 that is more efficient.
• the number of stages (or layers), the radius, the n's of respective stages, and the distance between the stages, etc., of the lens unit (3105) may all be varied depending on the usage requirements, environment, etc.
• the n of the materials used in the collector (e.g., 120 or 3105), whether single or multistage, can be controlled through the combination of multiple materials with different n (i.e., mixing a low index glass and higher index quartz, varying the volume of either material to raise or lower the index) to form a new 'blend' of material that has the precise index of refraction desired.
• Suspensions of solutions can also be used to control n in a similar manner.
• anti-reflective material may be used between the stages to minimize reflection therebetween.
• 3120 may be made of a high index material to be used to tighten the light (solar) beam at the base of the collector lens (120 or 3105) just above the focal point at the origin to further focus incoming solar energy minimizing the target area for placing the transmission fiber (110). This reduces the number of fibers needed per collector unit by increasing energy density per fiber.
• Final stage 3120 also serves another purpose of bending all the incoming light rays within the numerical aperture ('TSfA") of the fiber (110).
• the critical angle of final stage 3120 may be set by setting nfi na i (index of refraction of final stage 3120) so that ⁇ is equal to or less than the maximum angle of reflection of fiber 110.
• the critical angle may be lowered even further if nf ma i ⁇ nfib er , as shown in Figure 33B.
• Figure 33 C illustrates the entry of light rays into fiber 110 where ⁇ max, the maximum angle of reflection at the border between the core 3305 and the clad 3310 of fiber 110, is dictated by the NA of fiber 110, which is defined by:
• N 1 and N 2 are the indexes of refraction of core 3305 and clad 3310, respectively.
• Figures 34A, 34B, 34C, and 34D illustrate an additional shape that may be used for collector lens (120 or 3100) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• Figures 34A and 34B are side views of collector unit 3400 similar to lenses 120 and 3105 but having a cutoff shape where lens material is cut off below the critical angle of the collector lens 3400 (e.g., 102 or 3105). Additional sections 3405 having a Fresnel surface similar to Fresnel lens 3125 may be added below the critical angle for increasing the range of light collection of unit 3400.
• FIG 34C shows a top view of sections 3405.
• sections 3405 may also be in a cutoff shape with respect to a path of the sun such that collection material is used only to face the sun on its path from East to West during the course of a day.
• collector unit 3400 and sections 3405 may be mounted to correspond to a daily cycle such that it faces the sun as it moves along during the course of a day (i.e., sections 3405 would face the direction where the sun rises and sets on the horizon). This alignment may be affected by the altitude, the location (latitude) etc., at which collector 3400 and sections 3405 are to be mounted.
• collector lens 3400 with the shape shown in Figures 34A, 34B, 34C, and 34D may be extremely lightweight, efficient, and adaptable to different environments and conditions.
• a further embodiment of the present invention increases collection of light energy, or solar energy, by disposing a plurality of fibers, such as optical fibers, relative to a lens such that as the angle of energy rays that are collected changes relative to the time of day, a particular fiber will have an optimal exposure to the energy rays.
• the fibers are used to collect and transmit solar energy or light energy, which is typically gathered by a collection apparatus, as described herein.
• the fibers are fabricated from a conductive material.
• the increased collection capability can be accomplished by arranging the fibers such that each fiber has maximum exposure in a sequence that is a function of the incoming light energy. This embodiment is advantageous since a collector can be mounted virtually anywhere and does not require any moving parts since the position of the plurality of fibers enables increased, collection.
• the lens may be fabricated from a plurality of materials to optimize collection of light energy.
• the disposition of fibers enables the surface area of fibers to be increased thereby increasing a quantity of received light energy that can then be transmitted.
• Each fiber may have a coefficient of energy collection.
• the coefficient of energy collection is a capability to collect light energy, or solar energy. This coefficient is a function of one or more of: a fiber's position relative to the surface of the lens; fiber diameter; and fiber constituent materials.
• a lens can be used to facilitate enhanced collection of light energy.
• the lens is fabricated from a plurality of materials.
• the lens includes a vinyl-based material, such as an acrylic material, which is disposed as a center portion, or region, and is surrounded by one or more rings of one or more polymeric materials.
• the polymeric material may be, for example, a thermoplastic material, such as polycarbonate, or polysilicon material, which is disposed at a peripheral region, or peripheral area, relative to the center portion.
• the lens, as described herein may be fabricated by mounting a first polymeric material in an annular or surrounding or concentric relationship to the center portion.
• One or more other polymeric material portions which may comprise the same polymeric material or a different polymeric material, may be mounted in additional annular, or concentric rings relative to the first polymeric material.
• the polymeric portions may be adhered to the acrylic material and/or another polymeric portion using a suitable adhesive compound such as epoxy or other resin that can bond desired portions of the lens.
• the adhesion material may also have refractive properties, which are factored into the lens functionality. Indeed, it is an embodiment of the present invention that the adhesion material is selected and applied at particular regions to produce desired refractive characteristics of the lens. Heat fusion, thermo-welding and/or co-extrusion may also be used to form the lens. For example, a die with a slot may be used to extrude the lens material, which may include acrylic and polymeric portions to form a center portion and peripheral portions as described herein.
• the lens may be formed by stretching portions of the polymeric materials, thereby modifying the surface area and refractive properties. The stretching procedure may be performed prior to, during, or after the adhesion or bonding process described above.
• Figure 35 shows a side view of a lens 3500 that can be used with a collection apparatus according to the present invention.
• Axis 3502 and axis 3504 define the collection boundaries for the lens 3500. These boundaries 3502 and 3504 form a region in which light energy may be collected
• Light energy rays 3506 and 3508 are examples of two light energy rays received by the lens 3500. As shown in Figure 35, these rays 3506 and 3508 originate from disparate points and are focused into collector region 3510.
• Region 3510 is typically a collection point of the lens 3500. This collection point 3510 may have a plurality of fibers used to collect the light energy from rays 3506 and 3508.
• Bands 3512, 3514, 3516 and 3518 are areas, or regions, of the lens 3500, which are typically at the periphery, or edge portions of the lens 3500. Each band, or region interfaces with the incoming rays, or incident light energy such that the light energy is focused to collector region 3510.
• region 3518 may be fabricated from a transparent thermoplastic material, or glass material, or an acrylic material, or heat-resistant glass, for example, PYREX®, or other suitable transparent, semi-transparent or translucent material.
• Region 3518 has a first refractive index (n 0 ) and focuses the incoming light energy as a function of the refractive index.
• Region 3518 may be a center region or area of the lens.
• Region 3516 may be fabricated from a polymeric material, such as polycarbonate, polysilicon, or modified glass material or a second acrylic material, different than region 3518.
• Region 3516 has an associated refractive index (Ti 1 ) and focuses the incoming light energy as a function of the refractive index.
• Ti 1 refractive index
• n ⁇ is greater than n 0 , such that the incoming light energy, which is received at a different angle, will be focused to maximize the collection of energy.
• Region 3516 may be disposed at the periphery of the region 3518 [0159]
• Region 3514 may also be fabricated from a polymeric material, such as polycarbonate, polysilicon or modified glass material or acrylic material, different that region 3518 and may also be different from that of region 3516.
• Region 3514 has an associated refractive index (n 2 ) and focuses the incoming light energy as a function of the refractive index.
• n 2 is greater than m, such that the incoming light energy, which is received at a different angle, will be focused to maximize the collection of energy.
• Region 3514 may be disposed at the periphery of region 3516.
• Region 3512 may be fabricated from a polymeric material, or modified glass material or acrylic material, as described above, different or the same as other regions of the lens.
• Region 3512 has an associated refractive index (n 3 ) and focuses the incoming light energy as a function of the refractive index.
• n 3 is greater than n 2 , such that the incoming light energy, which is received at a different angle, will be focused to maximize the collection of energy.
• Region 3512 may be disposed at the periphery of region 3514.
• the center portion has the lowest index of refraction and the portions surrounding the center portion have increasingly higher indices of refraction.
• the amount of increase in the refractive indices can be a fixed or variable quantity.
• Figure 36 shows the interaction of light from a light source, such as the sun, with the lens 3640 of the present invention. Specifically, Figure 36 shows an arc 3620 of the light energy, as the earth changes position relative to the sun during a day. The direction of arrow 3620 shows that the light energy is received by the lens 3640 at a plurality of angles.
• Line 3622 shows energy is focused at focal point 3654, which may then be collected by one or more fibers, as discussed herein.
• ray 3624 is also focused at focal point 3654.
• Rays 3622 and 3624 are directed as a function of lens regions 3632 and 3634, which typically have unique corresponding indices of refraction.
• region 3638 As the earth rotates around the sun during the day, light energy, for example 3626, which is a result of the sun being closer to the center of the lens, is focused by region 3638.
• region 3638 As the earth rotates around the sun during the day, light energy, for example 3626, which is a result of the sun being closer to the center of the lens, is focused by region 3638.
• the incoming light rays do not originate such that the rays interact with the center region 3638 of the lens 3640, collection efficiency decreases because, for example, the angle of ray 3628 does not optimally align with focal point 3654.
• Region 3642, 3644 and 3646 each being fabricated from a material, such as a polymer, and having a corresponding index of refraction enhances the collection of light energy by focusing the light toward focal point 3654. This is accomplished by bending or refracting the light energy to direct it toward focal point 3654.
• Figure 37 shows a top view 3700 of a lens.
• the surface of the lens has a plurality regions, each having an associated indices of refraction.
• 3712(a) and (b) relate to index of refraction n 3 ;
• 3714(a) and (b) relate to index of refraction n 2 ;
• 3716(a) and (b) relate to index of refraction n ⁇ 3718(a) and (b) relate to index of refraction n 0 .
• n 3 is greater than n 2 , which is greater than n ls which is greater than n 0 .
• the composite make-up of the lens enables light energy to be diffracted at various angles.
• Figure 38 shows a front to back view of a lens 3800, which is coupled to a fiber assembly 3840, which is mounted in proximity to the focal point 3854.
• the fiber assembly 3840 has a plurality of fibers, each fiber positioned to have maximum collection at a particular refractive index to collect light energy 3820.
• 3812(a) and (b) are a region having an index of refraction n 3 ;
• 3814(a) and (b) are a region having an index of refraction n 2 ;
• 3816(a) and (b) are a region having an index of refraction n ⁇
• 3818 is a region having an index of refraction n 0 .
• region 3818 is the center portion and is fabricated from glass, or acrylic or PYREX®.
• Regions 3812, 3814 and 3816 are peripheral regions.
• Figure 39 shows collector 3900 with lens surface 3902 and fibers
• Each fiber, generally 3904 is disposed relative to a corresponding section of the lens 3902.
• 3906(a) relates to fiber 3940(a).
• Each fiber 3904 is positioned such that as light energy is received by lens surface 3902, a fiber will have the highest collection ratio or coefficient. For example, when light energy is received at an angle, fiber 3904(a) may be the most efficient collector. However, as the angle of the incoming light energy changes, a fiber near the center of the lens surface 3902 may be the most efficient collector. Thus, as the sunlight changes reception angle, the apparatus 3900 will have a fiber available for collection of energy.
• FIG. 40 shows a side view 4000 of a plurality of fibers coupled together. Fibers 4004(a)..(n) (where n is any suitable number) are coupled in a bundle 4008, such that a single fiber 4006 may be used to transmit the collected energy. Distal portions 4021 (a)...(n) of fibers 4004(a)...(n) are typically coupled to, or joined to, a lens surface, as described herein.
• FIG. 41 shows a perspective view 4100 of a collection panel 4110 for collecting solar energy.
• the collection panel 4110 typically includes a plurality of collection devices 4105, which include the lens 4102 and fibers 4104.
• the panel 4110 collects solar energy from sunlight 4120.
• FIG 42 shows a perspective view 4200 of a collection apparatus according to the present invention.
• the lens 4202 has a substantially U-shape and a plurality of fibers 4204 that are coupled into a single fiber 4240 to collect thermal energy 4220, which is typically sunlight.
• the coupling 4240 permits the fibers and lens to move as shown by elements 4264 and 4262.
• the fibers and lens are less susceptible to damage or breaking because they exhibit flexibility.

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• 2005
  • 2005-05-16 US US11/130,544 patent/US7558452B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
• 2006
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