Method and apparatus for automatically tracking the sun with an object
US6680693B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 7, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jan 20, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 7, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/50
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus are disclosed to track the position of the sun and direct an object to the direction of the sun, regardless of weather conditions or geographical location, among other disruptive or interrupting factors. The object may include a solar collector, solar cell, or test panel, among other possible devices or applications requiring near continuous exposure to rays of the sun. The apparatus uses a GPS device to determine the position of the object on the earth. The apparatus includes a controller operatively coupling to the GPS device. The controller calculates the relative position of the sun with respect to the object. The controller operatively couples to a positioning system. The positioning system includes a first drive and a second drive coupled to the object. Commands from the controller operate the positioning system to articulate the object and automatically direct it towards the relative position of the sun.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.