WO2017160704A1 - Systèmes photovoltaïques à recyclage intermittent et continu de lumière - Google Patents

Systèmes photovoltaïques à recyclage intermittent et continu de lumière Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2017160704A1
WO2017160704A1 PCT/US2017/022075 US2017022075W WO2017160704A1 WO 2017160704 A1 WO2017160704 A1 WO 2017160704A1 US 2017022075 W US2017022075 W US 2017022075W WO 2017160704 A1 WO2017160704 A1 WO 2017160704A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
solar
light
panel
solar cell
tube
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2017/022075
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Madhavan Pisharodi
Original Assignee
Perumala Corporation
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US15/069,591 external-priority patent/US10079571B2/en
Priority claimed from US15/149,506 external-priority patent/US10439552B2/en
Priority claimed from US15/455,329 external-priority patent/US10097135B2/en
Application filed by Perumala Corporation filed Critical Perumala Corporation
Priority to CN201780028852.3A priority Critical patent/CN109463017A/zh
Publication of WO2017160704A1 publication Critical patent/WO2017160704A1/fr

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01L—SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS H10
    • H01L31/00—Semiconductor devices sensitive to infrared radiation, light, electromagnetic radiation of shorter wavelength or corpuscular radiation and specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof
    • H01L31/04—Semiconductor devices sensitive to infrared radiation, light, electromagnetic radiation of shorter wavelength or corpuscular radiation and specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof adapted as photovoltaic [PV] conversion devices
    • H01L31/054—Optical elements directly associated or integrated with the PV cell, e.g. light-reflecting means or light-concentrating means
    • H01L31/0547—Optical elements directly associated or integrated with the PV cell, e.g. light-reflecting means or light-concentrating means comprising light concentrating means of the reflecting type, e.g. parabolic mirrors, concentrators using total internal reflection
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01L—SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS H10
    • H01L31/00—Semiconductor devices sensitive to infrared radiation, light, electromagnetic radiation of shorter wavelength or corpuscular radiation and specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof
    • H01L31/04—Semiconductor devices sensitive to infrared radiation, light, electromagnetic radiation of shorter wavelength or corpuscular radiation and specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof; Details thereof adapted as photovoltaic [PV] conversion devices
    • H01L31/042—PV modules or arrays of single PV cells
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
    • H02S10/00—PV power plants; Combinations of PV energy systems with other systems for the generation of electric power
    • H02S10/10—PV power plants; Combinations of PV energy systems with other systems for the generation of electric power including a supplementary source of electric power, e.g. hybrid diesel-PV energy systems
    • H02S10/12—Hybrid wind-PV energy systems
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
    • H02S20/00—Supporting structures for PV modules
    • H02S20/20—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object
    • 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 generally to the field of photovoltaic systems for conversion of solar energy into electrical energy using a method of recycling of light intermittently or continuously.
  • Use of renewable energies is increasing because of the limited supply of coal, petroleum products and other hydrocarbons.
  • Renewable energy sources are green and environmentally friendly.
  • solar energy is freely and abundantly available.
  • Photovoltaic systems use solar radiation - both direct and scattered sunlight - to create electrical energy.
  • the basic building blocks of a photovoltaic system are solar/photovoltaic cells.
  • the cells typically consist of semiconductor materials that convert light into electricity.
  • a plurality of cells can be interconnected to form panels or modules.
  • the panels are typically flat.
  • Several modules can be installed in a rack to form a photovoltaic array.
  • Photovoltaic systems further include mounting racks and hardware for the panels, wiring for electrical connections, and power conditioning equipment, including inverters and optional batteries for electricity storage.
  • the energy conversion efficiency or ECE ( ⁇ ) of the cells is the percentage of the incident photon energy in the form of sunlight or any other source of light that is converted to electrical energy.
  • ECE energy conversion efficiency
  • PV photovoltaic
  • U.S. Pat. No. 4080221 describe a method for redirecting light source to the bottom of conical units. In reality this does not add to the ultimate energy output because what was gained by the light redirection was at the cost of losing significant surface area for the solar cells. Depending upon the angle of the slope there is proportionate loss of surface area for the solar cells and it also causes portion of the light being reflected back into the atmosphere.
  • U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 20160099362 discloses a method of containing conventional solar panels inside large cylindrical enclosures so that the panels are protected from outside contamination. These panels can also be removed from the cylinders for purpose of cleaning. Individual panels behave like conventional, flat panels except that they are kept vertical along the walls of the cylindrical enclosures.
  • a photovoltaic (PV) system includes a solar panel module.
  • the solar panel module includes one or more tubular panels. Arranged within each tubular panel is a plurality of solar cell arrays, wherein each array comprises a grouping of solar cells.
  • the solar cell arrays can include one or more patterns.
  • the plurality of solar cell arrays are arranged along an inside surface of the tubular panel. At least an upper portion of the tubular panel is conical or slopes inward such that the tubular panel has a substantially funnel-shaped geometry.
  • the tubes may or may not be provided with lids, that can filter undesirable lightwaves, provide electrochromatic layer to facilitate intermittent stimulation and/or augment the available light.
  • the tubular panel has a substantially pyramidal upper portion. The remaining portion of the tube can continue as a cylinder or as a rectangular tube.
  • the solar cell arrays are arranged in a C- ring pattern, or vertically from the top to the bottom, or a combination of thereof. A first solar cell array is separated from a second solar cell array by a predetermined distance.
  • the area between the solar cell arrays is coated with a suitable reflective material to facilitate optimal reflection of incident sunlight back to the solar cells.
  • the external surface of the tube may also be coated with a suitable reflective material. Recycling of incident light is facilitated within the tube. The light can be intermittently or continuously recycled.
  • the tubular panels include a cavity extending through the length of the panel.
  • the PV tubular panel further includes a core element, wherein the core element is located centrally and along the length of the cavity.
  • the core element is coated with a reflective material, or may be made up of a single or multiple lines of solar cells, naked or encolsed in smaller microtubules. Any extension of the central core outside the solar panel may not have the reflective coating.
  • the core element is a cylindrical member.
  • a first or an upper portion of the core element terminates in a conical expanded member, which is also coated with reflective material.
  • the conical expanded member facilitates redirection of light to the solar cell arrays.
  • a second portion of the cylindrical member extends above the conical expanded member- the second portion of the cylindrical member is coupled to a concave mirror. This second portion of the cylindrical member may not have a reflective coating.
  • a wind turbine is further coupled to an extension of the central core above the concave mirror, and this second portion of the cylindrical member also may not be coated with reflective material.
  • the system can include a housing with or without a top cover and a vertically arranged solar panel assembly within the housing.
  • the solar panel assembly may include one or more reflective tubes.
  • the tubes may or may not be provided with lids.
  • Solar panels of various geometries may be arranged within the tube.
  • the solar panels may be arranged vertically, horizontally or in combinations thereof.
  • Light is recycled within the housing and/or within the tubes either continuously or intermittently. This will reduce the loss from the reflections outside the housing and will also improve the working efficiency of the semi-conductors/solar cells by creating the multiple passes, continuously or intermittently.
  • the tubes may be arranged like towers inside the houside or the tubes may be bored into the housing with an appearance similar to a honey comb.
  • the PV system includes a housing for the solar panel module.
  • the tubular panels may be vertically arranged within the housing.
  • the housing can include a transparent top cover plate to allow substantially all incident light to reach the solar panel module.
  • the tubes may be arranged like towers inside the housing or the tubes may be bored into the housing with an appearance similar to a honeycomb.
  • the top cover plate sealably encloses the solar panel module within the housing.
  • the top cover plate includes two or more layers selected from the group consisting of: i) a filter or coating layer for allowing only optimal light bands to penetrate the housing; ii) an electrochromatic coating layer, capable of intermittently blocking the passage of light, and iii) an augmentation layer for augmenting the incident light.
  • the PV system includes a rotator. The rotator is affixed to a base of the solar panel module.
  • a photovoltaic (PV) system includes a plurality of solar panel modules, wherein each solar panel module comprises: a funnel-shaped or pyramidal panel, each panel having a plurality of solar cell arrays, wherein each array comprises a grouping of solar cells, and wherein the solar cell arrays are arranged: (A) along an inside surface of the panel, or (B) along an inside surface of the panel and in a plurality of microtubules within the panel, wherein the solar panel module is configured to bend in multiple directions and angles.
  • each solar panel module comprises: a funnel-shaped or pyramidal panel, each panel having a plurality of solar cell arrays, wherein each array comprises a grouping of solar cells, and wherein the solar cell arrays are arranged: (A) along an inside surface of the panel, or (B) along an inside surface of the panel and in a plurality of microtubules within the panel, wherein the solar panel module is configured to bend in multiple directions and angles.
  • FIGs. 1A-1C illustrate various views of a solar panel module according to certain embodiments.
  • FIGs. 2A-2E illustrate various views of the solar panel module shown in Figures 1A-1C having a central core according to certain other embodiments.
  • FIGs. 3A-3C illustrate various views of a solar panel module according to certain embodiments.
  • FIGS. 4A-4E illustrate various views of the solar panel module shown in Figures
  • FIGs. 5A-5C illustrate a photovoltaic system according to certain embodiments
  • Figs. 6A-6C illustrate a photovoltaic system according to certain other embodiments.
  • FIGs. 7A-7B illustrate a solar panel module having a rotator according to certain embodiments.
  • Fig. 8 illustrates a lid for the solar panel module according to certain embodiments.
  • FIGs. 9A-9D illustrate various views of a solar panel module according to certain other embodiments.
  • Fig. 9E illustrates a photovoltaic system on a dwelling according an embodiment.
  • Figs. 9F-9G illustrate various views of a central solar microtubule shown in Figures 9C according to certain embodiments.
  • Figs. 10A-10B illustrate various views of a photovoltaic system according to certain embodiments.
  • FIGs. 11A-11E illustrate various views of hybrid photovoltaic and wind energy conversion system according to certain embodiments.
  • Figs. 12A-12B illustrate various views of a combination photovoltaic system and a street lighting system according to certain embodiments.
  • FIGs. 13A-13B illustrate various views of a space based solar power system according to certain embodiments.
  • FIGs. 14A-14D illustrate various views of a hybrid photovoltaic system and a wind energy conversion system according to certain embodiments.
  • Figs. 15A-15B illustrate a perspective view of a photovoltaic (PV) system according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 15C illustrates a PV system with a pivot according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 16A-16B illustrate a top and cross-sectional view of a top cover plate according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • Figs. 17A-17D illustrate a longitudinal-sectional view of solar panel assemblies according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • Figs. 18A-18C illustrate another embodiment of the PV system with solar panels positioned in the gaps between the tubes.
  • Figs. 19A-19B illustrate longitudinal-sectional view of a solar panel assembly according to an embodiment.
  • Figs. 20A-20B illustrate a longitudinal-sectional view of a solar panel assembly according to an embodiment.
  • Figs. 21A-21B illustrate a PV system with a cooling system according to another embodiment.
  • Figs. 22A-22D illustrate a PV system having a solar panel assembly arranged in a honey comb pattern according to an embodiment.
  • Figs. 23A-23D illustrate longitudinal-sectional views of the cutouts having solar panels according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 24 illustrates total internal reflection in the solar panel assembly according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 25 illustrates a lid for a cutout solar panel assembly according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 26 illustrates a PV system according to an embodiment positioned on a rooftop.
  • a "fluid” can be a liquid or gas.
  • the fluid may be water, air, or gas.
  • FIG. 1A illustrates an embodiment of a solar panel module 100.
  • Figures IB and 1C illustrate a longitudinal sectional views of the front and back therof respectively.
  • the solar panel module 100 includes an array of photovoltaic or solar cells 120 and a tubular panel 110 for receiving the solar cell array.
  • the panel 110 comprises an elongated tube having a central cavity 115.
  • at least a top or an inlet portion of the tube 110 may be sloped inward such that the panel has a substantially funnel-shaped geometry.
  • the tube 110 faciliates collection of light rays.
  • a plurality of solar cell arrays 120 are arranged in depth along the inside wall of the tube 110 resulting in a in three-dimensional and not in flat, two-dimensional layers.
  • the solar cell arrays 120 can have a three-dimensional arrangement within the tubes 110 with reference to the top surface of a housing (as shown in Figures 5A-6C).
  • the solar cell arrays 120 may be arranged in a substantially incomplete concentric rings or in a C-ring pattern.
  • a first solar cell array 120 A may be separated from a second solar cell array 120B by a predetermined distance "d".
  • a vertical gap 125 may be formed within each of the solar cell arrays. Electrical connections 114 may pass through the gap 125 to harness the power produced by the solar cells.
  • the solar cell array 120 includes a plurality of interconnected solar cells. Solar cells are known in the art. The solar cells and the solar cell arrays 120 are electrically interconnected. The solar cell arrays 120 can be connected in series, in parallel or in any combinations thereof.
  • the conducting wires that take the current off the solar panel module 100 may contain silver, copper or other non-magnetic conductive metals.
  • Area 130 between each of the rings may be lined or coated with a reflective material to enhance and facilitate optimal reflection of incident light back to the solar cells.
  • the reflective material may be selected from any material known in the art.
  • the tube 110 and the cavity 115 can be filled with a transparent material such as glass or plastic (not shown).
  • the solar cells can also be arranged vertically as in 7C or in any combination thereof.
  • the tube 110 may include the solar cell arrays 120 and at least one core element 140, 150, 160. (Although present, the solar cell array 120 is omitted from Figures 2B, 2D and 2E in order to show the path of the light rays).
  • the tube 110 may comprise carbon nanotubes, aluminum, fiber glass tubes, etc.
  • the tube 110 is configured to facilitate total internal reflection from the inside surfaces and also from a deep end of each tube with or without a central core.
  • the one or more core elements 140, 150, 160 may be positioned centrally within the cavity of the tube 110.
  • the core element 140 comprises a solid cylindrical shaft.
  • the cylindrical shaft 140 may be plain or corrugated.
  • the cylindrical shaft 140 may be lined or coated with a reflective material known in the art.
  • Central core may also be made of a single or multiple lines of solar cells, either naked or enclosed in much smaller microtubules (not shown) with reflective surfaces inside and outside such tubules.
  • the core element 150 comprises a plurality of inverted conical elements. Each conical element 150 is coated with a reflective material. The conical elements 150 may be stacked within the tube 110. Each conical element 150 may be coupled to or abutting at least one other conical element.
  • the core element 160 comprises a plurality of multifaceted elements to optimize dispersion of light, for light recy dying inside the tube 110.
  • the multifaceted elements 160 are substantially in the form of a diamond in order to facilitate light dispersion and recycling.
  • the tube 110 may have a wider slope, in comparison to the tube shown in Figures 2A-2B.
  • the core elements 140, 150 may further facilitate light scattering and recycling. This will also help a rather uniform distribution of light onto the solar cells in the solar cell array irrespective of the angle in which the light enters the tube 110.
  • Multifaceted elements 160 as shown in Figure 2E, can disperse light in all directions inside the tube and facilitate further light recycling.
  • the length of the tube 110 may be determined by the available space and the intensity of the light.
  • FIG 3 A depicts another embodiment of the solar panel module.
  • Figures 3B and 3C illustrate a longitudinal sectional views of the front and back thereof respectively.
  • the solar panel module 200 includes a pyramidal upper portion of the tube 210 for receiving the solar cell arrays 220 and may continue as a rectangular or square shaped tube. At least a top or inlet portion of tube 210 slopes inward.
  • the tube 210 has a generally square or rectangular cross-section along the length of the tube.
  • the tube 210 may comprise carbon nanotubes, aluminum, fiber glass tubes, etc.
  • the tubes 210 are configured to facilitate total internal reflection from the inside surfaces and also from a deep end of each tube. Solar cells are known in the art.
  • a plurality of solar cell arrays 220 are arranged in depth along the inside wall of the tube 210 and in three-dimensional and not in flat, two-dimensional layers.
  • the solar cell arrays 220 can have a three-dimensional arrangement within the tubes 210 with reference to the top surface of a housing (as shown in Figures 5A-6C).
  • the solar cell arrays 220 may be arranged in a substantially incomplete rectangular pattern.
  • a first solar cell array 220A may be separated from a second solar cell array 220B by a predetermined distance "d".
  • a vertical gap 225 may be formed within each of the solar cell arrays. Electrical connections 214 may pass through the gap 225 to harness the power produced by the solar cell arrays 220.
  • the solar cells and the solar cell arrays 220 are electrically interconnected.
  • the solar cell arrays 220 can be connected in series, in parallel or in any combinations thereof.
  • the conducting wires that take the current off the solar panel module 200 may contain silver, copper or other non-magnetic conductive metals.
  • the area 230 between each of the arrays may be lined or coated with a reflective material to facilitate optimal reflection of incident light back to the solar cells.
  • the tube 210 and the cavity 215 can be filled with a transparent material such as glass or plastic (not shown).
  • a single string of solar cells may be used as a central core (not shown), and the entire inside wall of the tube may be lined with a reflective material.
  • one or more core elements 240, 250, 260 may be positioned centrally within the cavity 215 of each tube 210.
  • a core element comprises a solid cylindrical shaft 240.
  • the shaft may be cubical, four-sided or multi-sided (as shown in Figure 5C with core 240A).
  • the shaft 240 may be plain or corrugated.
  • the shaft 240 may be lined or coated with a reflective material known in the art.
  • the central core may also be made of a single or multiple lines of solar cells, either naked or enclosed in much smaller microtubules (as shown in figure 9D) with reflective surfaces inside and outside such tubules).
  • the core element comprises a plurality of inverted pyramidal reflective elements 250 stacked within the tube 210.
  • Each pyramidal reflective element 250 may be coupled to or abutting at least one other reflective element.
  • the reflective element 250 may be lined or coated with a reflective material known in the art.
  • the core element comprises a plurality of multifaceted, diamond-shaped, elements 260. These multifaceted elements 260 are configured to optimize dispersion of light and recycling inside the module.
  • FIG. 3A sunlight (or light from any other source) can enter from the top of the tube 210.
  • the arrows depict the path of the light within the tube 210. Due to the reflective coating between each of the rings, light is forced to scatter back onto the cells inside the tube 210 thereby facilitating multiple passes of the incident light.
  • the cores 240, 250 may further facilitate light scattering and recycling. This will also help a rather uniform distribution of light onto the solar cells irrespective of the angle in which the light enters the tube 210.
  • Multifaceted elements 260 shown in Figure 4E, can further disperse light in all directions inside the tube and facilitate light recycling.
  • the length of the tube 210 may be determined by the available space and the intensity of the light.
  • the slope of the tubes 110 and 210 with the special arrangement of the solar cell arrays 120, 220 within the tubes creates a three dimensional solar panel modules. Due to the depth and inward slope of the tube 110, 220 incident light is completely utilized within the solar module 100, 200 and there is substantially no dissipation of light back to the atmosphere. [0059] Thus, the various embodiments of the solar panel module 100, 200 optimize the harvesting of light by reducing the amount of wasted light due to refraction and reflection and by increasing the total internal reflection. Additionally, the total length of the tube 110, 210 and number of solar panel arrays 120, 220 contained within the tube 110, 210 can vary in order to accommodate the intensity of light at a particular location and the availability of space.
  • the length of the tube 110, 210 and the number of cell arrays 120, 220 can be increased to optimize harvesting of the light, or, the length may be increased in areas of intense light source to harvest more energy per unit area.
  • a method for providing space based solar power is disclosed.
  • Space based solar power is the concept of collecting power in outer space or space and storing that in special units and transfering that energy to Earth using wireless energy transmission techniques.
  • the method involves providing a space based solar power system comprising one or more solar panel modules disclosed in Figures 1A-4E.
  • An exemplary space based solar power system is disclosed in Figures 13A-13B.
  • the space based solar power system 1100 includes housing for a plurality of solar panel modules 11 10A, 1 HOB, 11 IOC (collectively "housing 1110").
  • Each housing may include sun sensors 1130, to facilitate maximum light entering the solar panel modules 1120A, 1120B, 1120C.
  • the solar panel modules include tubular panels having varying geometries (as discussed previously) and each panel can have varying arrangements of solar cells therein.
  • the housing 1110 can be operably connected to an energy storage unit 1140 by a docking arm or connector 1150.
  • the method further involves providing the space based solar power system with docking arms to connect to additional solar panel housing as and when the need arises at the receiving facilities on the ground.
  • the space based solar power system 1100 can reside on a satellite that orbits the Earth or it can be stationary and positioned in strategic places in space.
  • the method involves using the space based solar power system to convert sunlight to energy that can be stored in the energy storage unit 1 140.
  • the method further involves transferring the energy thus created in space down to receiving units on the ground using wireless power transmission.
  • the method further involves transferring the electricity created by the strategically placed space based solar power system 1200 to moving units like private vehicles, planes, drones and public transportation systems on the ground or in the sky .
  • This method can facilitate eco-friendly transportation using the space based solar power system.
  • the method may further involve provided each moving vehicle with a coded receiver (not shown), which can switch from a first space based solar power system 1200 on a first satellite to a second space based solar power system on a second satellite depending on the satellite's proximity to the vehicle. Coded receivers are known in the art. The coded receiver can also be metered to measure the electricity utilization. The electricity thus received by the moving vehicles can be used to charge the batteries in vehicle that run it.
  • FIGS 5A-5C illustrate an embodiment of a photovoltaic (PV) system 300.
  • FIGs 6A-6C illustrate another embodiment of a PV system 400.
  • the PV systems 300, 400 include plurality of solar panel modules 100, 200 positioned within a substantially cubical housing 320, 420.
  • Figures 6A-6C illustrate the solar panel module 100 comprising a plurality of elongated tubes 110 of Figures 1A-1C arranged along the length and width of the housing 420 to give it the structure of honeycomb.
  • Figure 6C shows central core 140, which is circular in cross-section.
  • FIGs 5A-5C illustrate the solar panel module 200 comprising a plurality of elongated tubes 210 of Figures 2A-2C arranged along the length and width of the housing 320, again, to give it the structure of honeycomb.
  • Figure 5C shows central core 240A, which is rectangular in cross-section.
  • the modules 100, 200 can be held vertically or in an upright position within the housing 320, 420.
  • solar cells can line along the sidewalls of the housing 320, 420 (not shown).
  • the modules 100, 200 can be tightly packed within the housing 320, 420 such that there is substantially no spacing between each of the modules 100, 200.
  • the inside surface of one or more sidewalls and the base of the housing 320, 420 can comprise a transparent insulating material.
  • each of the modules may be separated from an adjacent module by a predetermined spacing.
  • the outside surfaces of each module 310, 410 may also be lined with reflective material in order to optimize energy output from the PV system 300, 400.
  • the base of each module 100 and 200 is provided with a plurality of elongated opening or slits 330, 430 to drain any collected water and also to facilitate cleaning the housing.
  • a solar panel module 500 includes a tube 510. Multiple arrays of vertically arranged solar cells 520 may be lined along an inner wall of the tube 510. The solar cells may also be arranged as in 1A to 1C.
  • the tube 510 may comprise a conical or funnel-shaped tube.
  • the solar panel module 500 further includes a rotator 530 to facilitate intermittent stimulation of the solar cells. The intermittent stimulation is made possible because light rays very rarely enter the tube 510 in a perpendicular zero degree axis.
  • the rotator 530 is configured to facilitate 360 degree rotation of the tubes along a perpendicular axis, or a 180 degree back and forth oscillation.
  • the rotator 530 may be affixed to a base of the tube 510.
  • the rotator 530 comprises of a motor 540, a disk 550, and a piston 560 connecting the bottom of tube 510 to motor 540 through a hole 570 in disk 550.
  • Other methods known in the art can also be used.
  • the PV system described herein may be provided with a top cover plate or lid 610.
  • the lid 610 comprises a suitable transparent insulating material including, but not limited to, glass or a suitable material that allows the transmission of light.
  • An ultraviolet (UV) or infrared (IR) filter or coating may be further incorporated into the lid 610.
  • Such a filter or coating may advantageously filter out undesirable UV/IR light bands while allowing optimal bands of light to penetrate into the modules, thereby reducing the generation of heat.
  • the lid 610 may include an electrochromatic layer to facilitate intermittent stimulation of the solar cells.
  • the lid 610 may also have a layer to augment incident light.
  • FIG. 9E illustrates a photovoltaic system 700.
  • the photovoltaic system 700 includes a plurality of solar panel modules 71 OA and 710B (together 710).
  • Solar panel module 710 comprises a funnel-shaped tubular panels (as described earlier). However, it would be obvious to a person skilled in the art that the solar panel can also include pyramidal tubular panels.
  • the solar panel modules 710 can be supported by a support member 760.
  • the support member may include a plate made of a suitable material.
  • the solar panel module 71 OA may include solar cells lined along an inside surface of the tubular module 720.
  • a cylindrical core 730 may be positioned within the solar panel module 71 OA.
  • the core 730 may be made of a suitable reflective material.
  • the solar panel module 71 OA may include one or more light amplifiers 740 positioned along an inside surface at desired intervals to increase the energy output. Light amplifiers are known in the art.
  • the solar panel module 71 OB includes solar cell arrays 720 lined along the entire length of the panel and/or a portion therof.
  • the solar panel module 710B further includes a microtubule bundle 770 positioned within the tubular panel.
  • the microtubule bundle 770 includes a collection of microtubules 790. Each microtubule 790 includes multiple arrays of solar cells 780 to form a central solar cell bundle.
  • the central solar cell bundle 780 may be formed of multiple wedge- shaped solar cell arrays.
  • the panels include solar cells and electrical connections 795. Solar cells may be grouped in a vertical string-like array throughout its entire length.
  • the microtubule 790 can be lined with reflective surfaces inside and outside. The inside coating facilitates internal reflection in the microtubules and the outside coating facilitates internal reflection in the main tubular panel 710B.
  • Ambient light is received and substantially trapped within the solar panel module 710.
  • the light is received by the solar cells 720, 780 and is substantially converted into electrical energy.
  • the solar panel module 710 comprises a flexible material. As such, solar panel module 710 can be molded along the structure of a dwelling 750, thus allowing the panels to be configured into various shapes.
  • the solar panel module 710 include a conical inlet and continue in a cylindrical fashion, contoured around the dwelling like pillars.
  • the entire photovoltaic system 700 can be enclosed in stronger fireproof tubes, which can also facilitate irrigation and washing of the panels with water for cooling the system and/or cleaning the system.
  • FIGS 10A-12B illustrate various embodiments of a photovoltaic system 800.
  • the photovoltaic system 800 includes a tube 810 (similar to "tube 110" shown in Figure 1A).
  • the tube 810 includes a plurality of solar cell arrays 820.
  • the solar cell arrays 820 includes a plurality of solar cells.
  • the tube 810 further includes a core element 830.
  • the core element 830 may be a cylindrical core element (as described previously with reference to " 140" Figure 2A and 2B).
  • a first or an upper portion of the core element 830 terminates in a conical expanded member 840.
  • the central core and the conical expanded member are coated with reflective material.
  • the conical expanded member 840 facilitates redirection of additional light to the solar cells.
  • the core member can be extended beyond the conical expanded member 840.
  • This second portion of core member can be coupled to a concave mirror or any concave reflective member 860.
  • This second portion of the core member may not be coated with reflective material.
  • the concave mirror 860 is configured to rotate 360 degrees in 24 hours clockwise or anticlockwise depending upon whether it is a southern hemisphere or northern hemisphere and whether the sun is in south or north to the equator. The direction of the mirror rotation will change March 21 st and September 21 st in such a way that mirror is always facing the sun and the concave mirror 860 will redirect the light on to the solar panel system 800.
  • FIGS 11A-11E illustrate a hybrid photovoltaic system and a wind energy conversion system 900.
  • the photovoltaic system 900 includes a tube 910 (similar to "tube 110" shown in Figure 1A).
  • the tube 910 includes a plurality of solar cell arrays 920.
  • the solar cell arrays 920 includes a plurality of solar cells.
  • the tube 910 further includes a core element 930.
  • the core element 930 may be a cylindrical core element (as described previously with reference to " 140" Figure 2A and 2B).
  • a first portion of the core element 930 terminates in a conical expanded member 940.
  • the first portion of the core and the conical expanded member are coated with reflective material.
  • the conical expanded member 940 facilitates redirection of additional light to the solar cells.
  • a second portion of the core element 930 can be extended beyond the conical expanded member 940 to be coupled to a concave mirror or any concave reflective member 960.
  • This second portion of the central core may not be coated with reflective material.
  • the concave mirror 960 is configured to rotate 360 degrees in 24 hours clockwise or anticlockwise depending upon whether it is a southern hemisphere or northern hemisphere and whether the sun is in south or north to the equator.
  • the central core can be extended further so that a wind turbine 970 may be coupled to the solar panel.
  • This second portion of the central core may not be coated with reflective material.
  • a wind turbine 970 may be coupled to the concave mirror 960.
  • the system is a hybrid wind and solar panel system which can ensure an uninterrupted source of electricity.
  • Figures 11C-11D show the same view as Figures 11A-11B but with the mirror 960 facing in an opposite direction.
  • Figure 1 IE is a cross-sectional view of Figures 1 lC-1 ID. The enlarged view of the bottom section shows a conventional mechanism for combining the DC electricity current generated from the wind turbine 970 and the solar cell array 920. Referring to Figure 1 IE, the DC electricity is stored in batteries 980A and 980B for solar and wind energy and is converted to alternating current for immediate use through power inverters 990A and 990B for solar and wind energy.
  • the hybrid system Even if the hybrid system is not making any major contribution towards power produced by a standalone wind turbine or solar panel on their own, a combined power output will be available for end user that can be greater than individual power production of either of them. For example, if the power produced by the wind turbine is 10KW and by solar cells is also 10KW, the hybrid system may be able to produce at least 20KW for the end user.
  • FIGs 12A-12B illustrate a photovoltaic system providing supplemental power for a street lighting system 1000.
  • the system 1000 includes a solar panel tube 1010 (similar to "tube 110" shown in Figure 1A).
  • the tubular panel 1010 includes a plurality of solar cell arrays 1020.
  • the solar cell arrays 1020 include a plurality of solar cells.
  • the tubular panel 1010 further includes a core element 1030.
  • the core element 1030 may be a cylindrical core element (as described previously with reference to "140" Figure 2A and 2B).
  • An upper portion of the core element 1030 terminates in a conical expanded member 1040.
  • the central core and the conical expanded member are coated with reflective material.
  • the conical expanded member 1040 facilitates redirection of additional light to the solar cells.
  • the central core can extend upwards to terminate in a light fixture 1080. This portion of the central core may not be coated with reflective material.
  • the light fixture 1080 may be a LED light fixture.
  • the light fixture 1080 may include any geometry. In certain embodiments, as shown, the light fixture 1080 may comprise a disk or halo geometry with a plurality of LED lights.
  • the enlarged view of the bottom section explains how the DC current generated from the solar cells is converted to usable form.
  • the DC electricity is stored in a suitable battery and is converted to alternating current for immediate use through power inverter 1090. This AC can be supplied as the input for the light fixture 1080, which may have additional AC input as backup.
  • FIGS 14A-14D refer to yet another embodiment 1200 of a PV system.
  • the PV system 1200 comprises a plurality of panels 1210 in a first layer.
  • Second and subsequent layers may include a plurality of units having a cross-shaped geometry 1220.
  • Each of the units may include one or more photovoltaic surfaces 1225, one or more reflective surfaces 1227 or a combination of both surfaces.
  • the panels 1210 and photovoltaic surfaces 1225 on the units may include one or more solar or photovoltaic cells known in the art.
  • the PV system 1200 can be preconfigured or preassembled.
  • the PV system 1200 comprises a housing 1230.
  • the housing 1230 may include a transparent top or top cover plate/sheet as described in Figure 8 herein.
  • the top or cover can be made of glass or a suitable material that allows the transmission of light and filter off specific wave lengths and facilitate reflection of incident light inside the housing on to the panels 1210 and cross-shaped units 1220.
  • the top or cover may be coated with a transparent conducting film.
  • Each of the panels 1210 in the first layer may be connected to an adjacent panel by a transparent or translucent connector.
  • the connectors can be bridge plates or strips or cylinders that are made of glass, polycarbonate or a smilar suitable material.
  • the connectors can be coated with an ultraviolet filter and/or an infra-red filter to allow only optimal bands of light to enter into the housing.
  • the bottom surface of the connectors may be coated with a reflector material or coated with a transparent conducting film such that the connectors have a reflective surface underneath.
  • One or more of the panels in the first panel layer comprises an inverted pyramid- shaped geometry.
  • One or more of the second and subsequent layers comprises one or more speherical or elongate units.
  • the units have an elongated "cross-shaped" geometry.
  • the units having the "cross-shaped" geometry can include photovoltaic surfaces on all surfaces or reflector surfaces or a combination of both.
  • the surfaces can be flat, rectangular, curved or a combination of flat and curved or arcuate surfaces.
  • the panels in the first layer 1210 and the units in the second or subsequent layer 1220 may be separated from each other by a predetermined gap to facilitate optimal recycling of light.
  • the first unit in a second layer is positioned substantially beneath the gap between a first and second panel in the first layer, and a second unit in the second layer is positioned substantially beneath the gap between the second and a third panel in the first layer.
  • Figure 13A shows an isometric front view of the PV system 1200 with one large fan 1250 connected to a shaft (not shown) for generating electricity from the wind energy and also driving the other units 1220 through belts (not shown).
  • Figure 13B shows an isometric rear view of the PV system 1200.
  • the blades 1255 of the fan 1250 are fixed to a hub 1260 at the front end of a shaft 1240 which extends between the front and rear wall of the housing 1230 so that the solid shaft can rotate freely.
  • the rear end of the shaft is connected to a gear box 1270 where the rotation of the shaft can be multiplied by connecting from a large gear to a small gear.
  • the gear box 1270 is connected to a generator 1275.
  • the electrical power generated is proportionate to the size of the fan blades 1255, the rotation of the shaft and the proportion between the large and small gears in the gear box.
  • a transformer may be required to increase or decrease the voltage so it is compatible with the end use, distribution or transmission voltage, depending on the type of interconnection.
  • the gearbox, generator and other components of the turbine are confined in an enclosure or nacelle 1280. The combined energy storage capability in the battery will be greater that either one of them alone.
  • the electricity is converted to alternating current for immediate use through a power inverter 1285.
  • Figure 13C shows an isometric front view of the PV system 1200 with the front end open to illustrate the the belt connection 1290 from the main fan to the other units 1220.
  • the solid shaft acts as the driver and drives the other shafts.
  • Figure 14D shows a diagrammatic representation of belt system.
  • FIGs 15A and 15B illustrate an embodiment of the photovoltaic (PV) system 10000.
  • the PV system 10000 includes a solar panel assembly 10050 positioned within a substantially cubical housing 10020.
  • the solar panel assembly 10050 comprises an array of elongated tubes 10010 arranged along the length and width of the housing 10020.
  • the tubes 10010 may be stacked vertically or in an upright position within housing 10020.
  • solar panels (not shown) may line along the sidewalls 10020a, 10020b of the housing 10020.
  • the tubes 10010 may be arranged vertically or in a tower- or pillar-like arrangement within the housing 10020.
  • the tubes 10010 may be tightly packed such that there is substantially no spacing between each of the tubes 10010.
  • the inside surface of one or more sidewalls 10020a, 10020b and the base 10020c of the housing 10020 may comprise a transparent insulating material.
  • the inside surfaces of sidewalls 10020a, 10020b may be a reflecting material or solar cells to increase the incident photon energy on the tubes 10010.
  • Suitable light sensors or photocells 10030 may be positioned along one or more sides of a top surface of the housing 10020, to direct the housing 10020 towards the source of light at any time around a 360 degree.
  • the tubes 10010 may be substantially cylindrical or oval and may have a hollow tubular cross section.
  • Each of the tubes 10010 may be lined inside and/or outside with a reflective material.
  • a first end 10010a of each of the tubes 10010 may be provided with a lid 10040.
  • the second end 10010b of each of the tubes 10010 may be affixed to an inside surface of the base 10020c of the housing 10020.
  • the length of the tubes 10010 may be greater than their diameters.
  • the length and diameter of the tubes 10010 may be variable.
  • the tubes 10010 may be carbon nanotubes, alumnum, fiber glass, etc. Carbon nanotubes may be stronger than steel while having only a fraction of its weight.
  • the tubes 10010 are configured to facilitate total internal reflection from the inside surfaces and also from a deep end of each tube.
  • the tubes 10010 include a hollowed core.
  • a channel 10015 extends through the length of each of the tubes 10010.
  • Each of the tubes 10010 comprises one or more solar panels 10055.
  • the solar panels 10055 may be positioned within the channel 10015 and they may be arranged perpendicular to base 10020c. In one or more embodiments, the solar panels 10055 may not extend to the top of the tubes 10010.
  • the housing 10020 is configured to support the solar panel assembly 10050.
  • the housing 10020 may include a transparent top cover plate or sheet 10025.
  • the cover plate 10025 substantially covers the entire top surface of the housing 10020.
  • the cover plate 10025 may be made of a thin sheet of a transparent material like polycarbonate, polyvinyl fluoride, glass or the like so that it allows substantially all incident sunlight to reach the solar cell assembly.
  • the undersurface of the cover plate 10025 is designed for the light from inside the housing 10020 to reflect back onto the solar cell assembly within the tubes 10010.
  • the PV system 10100 having a solar panel assembly 10050 is illustrated in Figure 15C.
  • the housing 10020 may be provided with a pivot 10060.
  • the base 10020c of the housing 10020 rests on the pivot.
  • Light sensors 10030 detect incident sunlight.
  • the light sensor 10030 are in operable communication with pivot 10060.
  • the pivot 10060 may be configured to tilt the housing 10020 in the direction of incident sunlight (or any source of light) based on detected sunlight. This ensures that the solar panel assembly 10050 faces the sun over a 360 degree circle.
  • the cover plate 10025 can be configured with a plurality of filters and coatings 10035.
  • the cover plate 10025 may have infrared (TR) and ultraviolet (UV) filters.
  • the cover plate 10025 can also have a coating on its undersurface (that is the side not exposed to sunlight) 10025 A in order to prevent incident photon energy /light from escaping out.
  • the cover plate 10025 may also include an augmenting layer.
  • the augmenting layer may involve the use of laser principles.
  • the cover plate 10025 may further include an electrochromic layer.
  • the electrochromic layer may involve the incorporation of electrochromic coating (or suitable devices - not shown) into the undersurface of the cover plate 10025 A in order to automatically control the amount of light passing through it.
  • the electrochromic coating can be configured to allow light to pass through the cover plate 10025 intermittently. Electrochromic coatings are known in the art.
  • Embodiments of the solar panel assembly 10050A- 10050D are depicted in Figures 17A-17D.
  • the solar panel assembly 10050A-10050D comprises a reflective tube 10010 having a vertical channel 10015 and a lid 10040.
  • the lid 10040 comprises a suitable transparent insulating material including, but not limited to, glass or a suitable material that allows the transmission of light.
  • An ultraviolet (UV) or infrared (IR) filter or coating may be further incorporated into the lid 10040.
  • Such a filter or coating may advantageously filter out undesirable UV/IR light bands while allowing optimal bands of light to penetrate into the tubes 10010, thereby reducing the generation of heat.
  • Such an arrangement creates a light trap by forcing light to stay within the tubes 10010.
  • the lid 10040 may include an electrochromic layer and an augmentation layer.
  • Light sensors 10070 may be positioned over the lid 10040.
  • the tubes 10010 may be provided with a pivot 10080 at the base.
  • the pivot 10080 may be substantially conical and may be configured to support the solar panel assembly 10050A-10050D.
  • the pivot 10080 may be configured to tilt the tube 10010 in the direction of incident sunlight. This ensures that the solar panel assembly 10050A-10050D faces the sun over a 360 degree circle.
  • One or more solar panels 10055A-10055D may be vertically arranged within the channel 10015.
  • Each solar panel 10055A-10055D may include one or more solar cells (not shown) known in the art.
  • the solar panels 10055A-10055D having the solar cells are arranged in depth and not in layers.
  • the solar panels 10055A-10055D have a three- dimensional arrangement within the tubes 11000.
  • the solar panels 10055A-10055D can have different geometries.
  • Solar panel 10055A has an elongated "cross-shaped" geometry.
  • Solar panel 10055A can include photovoltaic cells on all external surfaces.
  • each of the external surface on solar panel 10055 A may include a combination of photovoltaic devices or solar cells and mirror-like reflective surfaces.
  • the mirror-like reflective surfaces may include high quality mirrors for reflecting incident light.
  • the surfaces can be flat, rectangular, curved or a combination of these surfaces.
  • Solar panel 10055B includes a plurality of abutting globes or spheres stacked above each other to form a columnar spherical arrangement.
  • the external surfaces of the spheres may also have photovoltaic cells or a combination of photovoltaic cells and reflective surfaces.
  • Solar panel 10055C includes a plurality of abutting pyramidal structures stacked above each other to form an elongated column.
  • the pyramidal structures may have triangular faces that have photovoltaic cells or mirror-like reflective surfaces.
  • Solar panel 10055D includes a plurality of globes having wedge cuts stacked above each other to form a columnar arrangement.
  • the globes may have either flat or curved boundaries that form the surface for a high quality mirror for reflecting light.
  • Photovoltaic cells may be attached to peripheral surfaces along the diameter.
  • the arrangement of panels 10055A-10055D having non-planar shapes inside the tube 10010 facilitates multiple reflections of the light rays inside the tube 10010. Accordingly, the energy conversion efficiency (ECE) of the photon energy to electrical energy by the solar panel assembly 10050A-10050D can be substantially enhanced over comparable prior art systems.
  • ECE energy conversion efficiency
  • FIG 18A-18C illustrate another embodiment of the PV system 10400.
  • the PV system 10400 includes housing 10020 for solar panel assembly 10050.
  • the solar panel assembly 10050 may include a plurality of tubes 10010.
  • the tubes 10010 may be arranged vertically or in a tower- or pillar-like arrangement within the housing 10020.
  • the tubes 10010 can be connected either in in series or in parallel or a combination of the two. For example, if there are one hundred towers, they may be all connected serially or in parallel or ten towers may be connected serially to form ten groups of ten towers, which may be connected parallel and various combinations of the same.
  • Each tube 10010 includes a solar panel 10055 having solar cells (not shown).
  • each of the tubes 10010 may be separated from an adjacent tube 10010 by a predetermined spacing.
  • Elongate solar panels 10405 can be positioned in the space or gap between adjacent tubes 10010.
  • the solar panels 10405 are stacked vertically and aligned in parallel to the tubes 10010.
  • the solar panels 10405 may be configured to have four arcuate faces. Each arcuate face may be configured with photovoltaic devices or a combination of photovoltaic devices and reflective mirrors to ensure optimal electricity production.
  • the outside surfaces of tubes 10010 may also be lined with reflective material in order to optimize energy output from the panels 10405.
  • the tubes 10010 and each of the solar panels 10405 may be provided with a pivot 10425.
  • the housing 10020 may be provided with a pivot 10415 (similar to 10080) and with light sensors 10435.
  • the light sensors 10435 detect sunlight, they cause the pivots 10415, 10425 to tilt the housing and/or the tubes 10010 and solar panels 10405 in the direction of the sunlight.
  • the tubes 10010 are aligned such that sunlight (or light from any other source) can enter from the top of the tube.
  • the inside surface of the tube 10010 may be coated with a suitable totally reflecting material, such that the light is totally reflected back into the solar panels (not shown).
  • a suitable totally reflecting material such that the light is totally reflected back into the solar panels (not shown).
  • the embodiments of the invention optimize the harvesting of light by reducing the amount of wasted light due to refraction and reflection and by increasing the total internal reflection.
  • the embodiments of the invention can also avoid the disadvantages, such as, reduced power output, caused by the continuous stimulation of solar panels.
  • the height of each of the panels may be around 90% of the height of the tube 10010 such that there is a 10% gap between a top surface of the panel and a top surface of the tube.
  • FIG 19A illustrates an embodiment of solar panel assembly 10500A.
  • Solar panel assembly 10500A includes a reflective tube 10010 as described earlier. Positioned within tube 10010 is a cylindrical core 10505 A that extends the length of the tube 10010. As shown, the cylindrical core 10505 A may be hollow. However, in other embodiments, the cylindrical core 10505 A may be a solid shaft. A plurality of solar panels 10515A may be arranged vertically along the length of the core 10505 A. As shown, tube 10010 comprises six vertical solar panels 10515 A. The solar panels 10515A may be connected in series, in parallel or in any combinations thereof. The surface of the cylindrical core 10505 A that is between the solar panels may include a reflective surface.
  • FIG 19B illustrates an embodiment of solar panel assembly 10500B.
  • Solar panel assembly 10500B includes a reflective tube 10010. Positioned with tube 10010 is a cylindrical core 10505B that extends the length of the tube 10010. As shown, tube 10010 comprises two vertical solar panels 10515B. Each solar panel 10515B includes alternating photovoltaic cells and reflective surfaces. The surface of the cylindrical core 10505 A that is between the solar panels may include a reflective surface. The space between the reflective tube 10010 and the cylindrical cores 10505 A, 10505B may be filled with transparent material like glass or plastic.
  • FIGS 20A-20B illustrates an embodiment of solar panel assembly 10600.
  • Solar panel assembly 10600 includes a reflective tube 10010 as described earlier. Positioned within tube 10010 is a cylindrical core 10605 that extends the length of the tube 10010.
  • the cylindrical core 10605 may be hollow or solid.
  • a plurality of solar panels 10615 may be arranged along the circumference of the core 10605 like rings. As can be seen with reference to Figures 20A-20B, the solar panels 10615 are shaped like C-rings.
  • the solar panels 10615 may be connected in series, in parallel or in any combinations thereof.
  • the surface of the cylindrical core 10605 that is between the solar panels 10615 may include a reflective surface.
  • the space between the reflective tube 10010 and the cylindrical core 10605 may be filled with transparent material like glass or plastic. In another embodiment, a single string of solar cells may be used as a central core.
  • FIG. 21 A shows the top view of an embodiment of the PV system 10700 A.
  • cylindrical tubes 1001 OA are arranged along the length and width of the housing 10020.
  • the tubes 10010 may include a solid cylindrical shaft 10710.
  • Each cylindrical shaft 710 may be embedded with one or more solar panels.
  • the cylindrical shaft 10710 includes six solar panels 10715A-10715F. Air or liquid coolants can be circulated through the spaces between cylindrical tubes 1001 OA (shown as arrows).
  • the circular gap 10720 between the tube 1001 OA and shaft 10710 acts as the medium for total internal reflection.
  • FIG 21B is another embodiment of the PV system shown in Figure 21A.
  • the PV system 10700B includes square-shaped towers 10010B having circular/oval holes arranged along the length of the tower 10020.
  • Each square tower 10010B is contained with a solid shaft 10710 embedded with six vertical panels 10715A-10715F along its circumference.
  • Air or liquid coolants can be circulated through the microtubules within the towers 1001 OB or between the towers (shown as arrows).
  • the circular gap 10720 between the tube 10010B and shaft 10710 acts as the medium for total internal reflection.
  • FIGS 22A-22D illustrate another embodiment of the PV system 10800.
  • the PV system 10800 comprises a solar panel assembly 10850 arranged in a honey comb pattern.
  • the PV system 10800 comprises a housing 10820.
  • Light sensors 10835 may be arranged along a top surface of the housing 10820.
  • the housing 10820 comprises a box- shaped internal member 10815.
  • the member 10815 may be made of any suitable material such as, aluminum or similar material. May also be made of coolant material.
  • a top surface of the member 10815 may be flush with a cover sheet 10860 for the housing 10820 while a bottom surface of the member 10815 may be flush with the base of the housing 10820.
  • Tubular openings or cutouts 10810 are formed within the member 10815.
  • the cutouts 10810 extend from the top surface of the member 10815 to the bottom surface of the member 10815 creating an appearance of a honey comb.
  • a solid shaft 10840 may be placed directly within a cavity of each each cutout 10810 (as opposed to being positioned within a cylindrical tube, as shown in Figs. 21A-21B).
  • One or more vertical solar panels 10855 may be embedded around the shaft 10840.
  • the solid region between the cylindrical cavities can either be made of coolant materials or can have fine tubules for air or liquid coolant (like sponge).
  • the cutouts 10810 can be of any shape.
  • the cutouts 10810 can be circular (as shown in Fig. 22A) or they can be ovoid (as shown in Fig. 22B) or they can be a combination or circular or ovoid shapes.
  • the working of total internal reflection 10870 is shown in the sectioned shaft
  • FIGs 23A-23D illustrate longitudinal-sectional views of cutout solar panel assemblies 10910A-10910D.
  • the shaft (10840 shown on Figs. 22A-22D) is substantially or completely non-existent. Therefore, the solar panels 10920A-10920D substantiallycontact an adjacent solar panel.
  • the two panels are opposed to each other, with no space in between.
  • the panels are like tokens with a slit, stacked one on top of the other.
  • the panels are arranged like in a four-sided structure with no gap in between.
  • the panels are arranged in a circle design with vertical panels without any space between them.
  • Figure 23D can also be a single strand of solar cells, or nano devices held in place by the transparent medium inside the tube 10010 (not shown).
  • FIG 25 illustrates a plurality of lids 11120 for enclosing each of the cutouts or openings (or the tubes 10010) in the solar panel assembly 11110 described with reference to Figures 22A-22D.
  • the lid 11120 can be configured to substantially enclose each the cutouts or the tubes. Similar to the filters/electrochromic coating/augmenting layer for the top cover sheet described with reference to Figs. 16A-16B, each lid 11120 may also have three layers, namely, a UV/IR filtering layer, electrochmic layer and augmenting layer.
  • a light deflector 11140 may be positioned over the lid 11120.
  • the light deflector 11140 may include a reflector cone 11145 placed inside a conical glass prism 11130. The cone 11145 deflects all the rays of sunlight that hit it such that they fall towards the cylindrical gap thereby enhancing the probability of total internal reflection.
  • FIG. 26 shows a PV system 11210 described herein mounted on top of a building 11220.
  • the solar panel assemblies can be tilted to all directions, the angle of tilt being controlled by the light sensors attached on the walls of the housing and on the top surface of individual cylindrical tubes and working with pivots on the housing or tubes as described herein.
  • a method for optimizing the harvesting of solar energy includes: providing a photovoltaic system for receiving the solar energy, the photovoltaic system comprising: a housing; and a solar panel assembly within the housing.
  • the solar panel assembly includes one or more tubes, or a tubular cutout in a honey comb arrangement. Each tube includes one or more solar panels.
  • the recycling of incident light in the tube is enabled. The light can be intermittently or continuously recycled.
  • the amount of reflections can be modified by the percentage of reflection, non-planar surface types of the panels, the amount of reflecting areas and other methods to optimize the desired amount of reflection to maximize electricity generation.
  • An optimal temperature may be maintained inside the housing by circulation of fluid inside or outside the housing.
  • the material may be frozen to prevent heating or may have micro tubules to circulate air or liquid coolant.
  • the panels may include one or more photovoltaic cells (semi-conductors).
  • One or more of the panels is a non-planar panel.
  • the panels can be textured and corrugated.
  • the panels can include cells on its top and the bottom surfaces overlying a reflecting base at the top and the bottom.
  • the panels can be spherical, globular with wedge cuts, pyramidal, circular, semi-circular, diamond shape, oval shape, circular or any such combination.
  • the PV system may be implemented as fixed ground units or as mobile units.
  • Production of electrical energy may be optimized by providing a photovoltaic system or a hybrid or a combination system according to one or more embodiments.
  • an intermittent stimulation of the solar cells may be facilitated by intermittent graded opacification of the top cover plate for the housing utilizing an electrochromatic coating layer, or by any other technique known in the art.
  • the electrical energy generated by the PV system can be collected, stored (for example, in a battery) and distributed through specialized methods already in use.
  • the embodiments of the invention allow a long lasting, environmentally friendly power source.
  • first,” “second,” “third,” etc., and “top” and “bottom” are arbitrarily assigned and are merely intended to differentiate between two or more solar panels, solar cell arrays, their positions, etc., as the case may be, and does not indicate any particular orientation or sequence. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the mere use of the term “first” does not require that there be any “second,” and the mere use of the term “second” does not require that there be any "third,” etc.

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Abstract

L'invention concerne des systèmes photovoltaïques et des procédés pour optimiser la récolte d'énergie solaire. Un système photovoltaïque (PV) comprend : un module de panneau solaire. Le module de panneau solaire comprend : une pluralité de réseaux de cellules solaires, chaque réseau comprenant un groupement de cellules solaires ; et un panneau tubulaire. La pluralité de réseaux de cellules solaires est agencée le long d'une surface intérieure du panneau. Au moins une partie supérieure du panneau est inclinée vers l'intérieur de telle sorte que le panneau a une géométrie sensiblement en forme d'entonnoir. Les réseaux de cellules solaires sont agencés selon un motif en anneau en C. Un premier réseau de cellules solaires est séparé d'un second réseau de cellules solaires d'une distance prédéterminée. La zone entre les réseaux de cellules solaires est revêtue d'un matériau réfléchissant pour faciliter une réflexion optimale de la lumière solaire incidente vers les cellules solaires. Le recyclage de la lumière incidente est facilité à l'intérieur du tube. La lumière peut être recyclée par intermittence ou en continu.
PCT/US2017/022075 2016-03-14 2017-03-13 Systèmes photovoltaïques à recyclage intermittent et continu de lumière WO2017160704A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CN201780028852.3A CN109463017A (zh) 2016-03-14 2017-03-13 间歇和连续地再循环光的光伏系统

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

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US15/069,591 US10079571B2 (en) 2014-05-28 2016-03-14 Photovoltaic systems with intermittent and continuous recycling of light
US15/069,591 2016-03-14
US15/149,506 2016-05-09
US15/149,506 US10439552B2 (en) 2014-05-28 2016-05-09 Photovoltaic systems with intermittent and continuous recycling of light
US15/455,329 2017-03-10
US15/455,329 US10097135B2 (en) 2014-05-06 2017-03-10 Photovoltaic systems with intermittent and continuous recycling of light

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Cited By (3)

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