Advanced survivable space solar power system
US5154777A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 26, 1990 |
| Grant date | Oct 13, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 26, 2010 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S136/292
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A photovoltaic electric power system for use in space. A self contained sun powered electric power generating system comprising a fresnel mirror array made up of a plurality of quadrilateral mirrors individually mounted on a generally flat supporting structure with the mirrors aimed at a common point above the structure, a photovoltaic array positioned at the common point by a movable strut mechanism, heat exchanger means at the PV array to draw excess heat therefrom, coolant lines from the heat exchanger means running through the struts to transfer heat to heat pipes configured as flat panels at the edges of and perpendicular to the supporting structure, and positioning means attached to a separate structure to enable the system to track the sun. The system is designed to fold into itself in the form of an elongate box for launch, maneuvering and protection.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.