Solar power satellite
US4415759A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 13, 1981 |
| Grant date | Nov 15, 1983 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 13, 2001 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S136/292
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A solar power satellite (30) includes a truss structure (32) having a plurality of independently controlled solar power modules (34) mounted to one face of the truss structure. The solar power satellite is constructed in orbit by first forming and then assemblying component beam members (50, 52) to the truss structure. The solar power modules (34) are constructed on a fabrication and assembly station (36) movably attached to the truss structure and are then attached to the truss structure. The solar power modules (34) include a primary reflector (200) having a substantially parabolic curvature in cross section. A collector-radiator (202) is mounted on the primary axis of the primary reflector. The cross-sectional configuration of the collector-radiator (202) approximates a flattened inverted S-shape whereon the radius of curvature decreases as the curve approaches both its center and its end furthermost from the primary reflector (200). The primary reflector (200) is contoured to reflect sun light onto the collector-radiator structure (202). The collector-radiator structure includes a plurality of spaced radiant energy converting cells (450 ). A plurality of light reflective fins (…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.