Photovoltaic array utilizing phyllotaxic architecture
US9103567B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 12, 2012 |
| Grant date | Aug 11, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 16, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/50
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An array of photovoltaic panels comprising a plurality of primary branches extending radially outwardly from a central trunk, and a plurality of photovoltaic panels joined to the primary branches, wherein the primary branches extend outwardly from the trunk in a spiral arrangement having a ratio of x turns around the trunk for every y primary branches. The ratio of x:y may be derived from a phyllotaxic arrangement of branches and leaves on a plant. X may be a Fibonacci number, with y being its Fibonacci second successor. The ratio of x/y may be selected from certain Fibonacci ratios, including 1/3, 2/5, 3/8, and 5/13. A method of converting electromagnetic radiation to electrical energy, and a method of making a device for converting electromagnetic radiation to electrical energy in accordance with the invention are also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.