Positional sensor for solar energy conversion device
US7893391B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 15, 2009 |
| Grant date | Feb 22, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 15, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/60
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A positional sensor for a solar energy collection device includes a fine sensing device having first light-sensitive sensors supported above a base so that adjacent first light-sensitive sensors are oriented in mutually orthogonal directions at a sensor height above the base. The first light-sensitive sensors are positioned at oblique angles relative to the base. The sensor also includes a coarse sensing device having a light-opaque shield surrounding the first light-sensitive sensors that extends outwardly from the base to a height that is greater than the sensor height. The shield includes second light sensing devices directed outwardly from the shield and arranged so that adjacent second light-sensitive sensors are oriented in mutually orthogonal directions.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.