Lightweight solar concentrator cell array
US5344496A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 16, 1992 |
| Grant date | Sep 6, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 16, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S136/292
Abstract
A self supporting solar concentrator cell array adapted for use in space applications that includes a plurality of cylindric parabolic reflective mirror surfaces, each of which focus recipient sunlight forwardly onto a focal line which is positioned approximately on the backside of an adjacent mirror surface on which is secured a solar element for converting the focussed sunlight into electricity. A front element extending upwardly from the leading edge of each mirror surface cooperates in providing an aperture through which the focussed sunlight passes and side elements close each cell element. The backside of each mirror is provided with a thermally emissive surface to provide mirror thermal control and allows the mirror to act as a thermal radiator fin for the solar cell elements. The mirror surface is provided with a highly reflective coating such as aluminum or silver to optimize reflectivity. The solar cell concentrator cell array is made by forming an uncured advanced organic composite part blank over a highly polished tool surface to impart the desired mirror surfaces. The solar concentrator cell array is cured, for example, by heated press means to form a unitary integral …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.