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WO2023112014A1 - A system for generating energy from hidden solar panels - Google Patents

A system for generating energy from hidden solar panels Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023112014A1
WO2023112014A1 PCT/IL2021/051491 IL2021051491W WO2023112014A1 WO 2023112014 A1 WO2023112014 A1 WO 2023112014A1 IL 2021051491 W IL2021051491 W IL 2021051491W WO 2023112014 A1 WO2023112014 A1 WO 2023112014A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
light
enclosure
optical fiber
solar panel
solar
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/IL2021/051491
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Ido Yosef SABAG
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Solarspace Ltd
Original Assignee
Solarspace Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Solarspace Ltd filed Critical Solarspace Ltd
Priority to PCT/IL2021/051491 priority Critical patent/WO2023112014A1/en
Publication of WO2023112014A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023112014A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H10—SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID-STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H10F—INORGANIC SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES SENSITIVE TO INFRARED RADIATION, LIGHT, ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION OF SHORTER WAVELENGTH OR CORPUSCULAR RADIATION
    • H10F77/00—Constructional details of devices covered by this subclass
    • H10F77/40—Optical elements or arrangements
    • H10F77/42—Optical elements or arrangements directly associated or integrated with photovoltaic cells, e.g. light-reflecting means or light-concentrating means
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
    • H02S40/00—Components or accessories in combination with PV modules, not provided for in groups H02S10/00 - H02S30/00
    • H02S40/20—Optical components
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H10—SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID-STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H10F—INORGANIC SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES SENSITIVE TO INFRARED RADIATION, LIGHT, ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION OF SHORTER WAVELENGTH OR CORPUSCULAR RADIATION
    • H10F19/00—Integrated devices, or assemblies of multiple devices, comprising at least one photovoltaic cell covered by group H10F10/00, e.g. photovoltaic modules
    • H10F19/80—Encapsulations or containers for integrated devices, or assemblies of multiple devices, having photovoltaic cells
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H10—SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID-STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H10F—INORGANIC SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES SENSITIVE TO INFRARED RADIATION, LIGHT, ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION OF SHORTER WAVELENGTH OR CORPUSCULAR RADIATION
    • H10F77/00—Constructional details of devices covered by this subclass
    • H10F77/40—Optical elements or arrangements
    • H10F77/42—Optical elements or arrangements directly associated or integrated with photovoltaic cells, e.g. light-reflecting means or light-concentrating means
    • H10F77/488—Reflecting light-concentrating means, e.g. parabolic mirrors or concentrators using total internal reflection
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0005—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being of the fibre type
    • G02B6/0006—Coupling light into the fibre
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0005—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being of the fibre type
    • G02B6/001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being of the fibre type the light being emitted along at least a portion of the lateral surface of the fibre
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy
    • Y02E10/52—PV systems with concentrators

Definitions

  • the present invention in some embodiments thereof, relates to a solar energy generating system and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a system with hidden solar collectors.
  • Solar energy is a source of clean, renewable energy. It can be harnessed using solar panels. More and more people are installing solar panels in their houses or on their building in order to take advantage of this resource to reduce electricity bills, reduce fossil fuel consumption, and/or to receive payments for the surplus energy that is export back to the energy grid.
  • Solar energy can be used to produce electricity in areas without access to the energy grid, for example to heat houses, distil water in regions with limited clean water supplies and to power satellites in space.
  • the amount of solar energy produced may depend on the surface area of the solar panel and/or the light intensity. In some situations, the more solar panels the more energy is produced. Solar panels require a lot of space, and some roofs or yards are not big enough to fit the number of solar panels required to power a home, building or commercial enterprise, particularly in urban environments.
  • Solar farms may sometimes be used as a power source in some areas of the world.
  • the solar panels may be mounted on the ground.
  • Such solar farms may use large tracts of land to.
  • solar installations take up considerably larger areas of land in comparison to windfarms.
  • solar energy can be collected during cloudy and rainy days.
  • efficiency of the solar system may be reduced by overcast conditions.
  • the positioning and orientation of the solar panel relative to the sun may influence the efficiency of the system. Finding a suitable location for a solar panel is not trivial. Additionally, in some environments, solar panels may not be aesthetically pleasing.
  • a method for generating energy including: receiving light into an optical fiber; conducting the light through the optical fiber; and emitting the light from the optical fiber onto a solar panel.
  • the conducting is from outside of an enclosure to inside the enclosure.
  • the method further includes hiding the solar panel.
  • the hiding the solar panel is inside a structural element of a house, building, yard, other constructed component.
  • the method further includes converting the light into electricity and transferring the electricity through an electrical connector.
  • the conducting is through an electrical connector connected to an energy storage, an electronic device, an energy grid, or a combination thereof.
  • the method further includes storing the energy in the energy storage which is a rechargeable battery.
  • the method includes powering the electronic device such as a sensor, a motion detector, a camera, a microphone, a light, an air conditioner, a heater, a water distillation device, a kitchen appliance, air purifier, computing equipment, power tools, streetlight, traffic lights, emergency lights or beacons, timers, or combinations thereof.
  • the electronic device such as a sensor, a motion detector, a camera, a microphone, a light, an air conditioner, a heater, a water distillation device, a kitchen appliance, air purifier, computing equipment, power tools, streetlight, traffic lights, emergency lights or beacons, timers, or combinations thereof.
  • the method further includes redirecting the light emitted from the optical fiber onto the solar panel.
  • the redirecting is by a reflector or a lens and further including supporting the reflector or the lens on a rail.
  • the method further includes supporting the solar panel on the rail.
  • the method filtering the light to limit the emitting to a frequency between 350 - 800 nm.
  • the method further includes trapping the light in the enclosure.
  • the method further includes concentrating light onto the optical fiber.
  • the concentrating is with a lens.
  • the concentrating is with a reflector.
  • the conducting is from outside of an enclosure to inside the enclosure and wherein is the concentrating is of light outside of the enclosure.
  • a system for generating electricity from light including: an enclosure having an inside and an outside; an optical fiber passing from the outside to the inside; and a solar panel having a collector side on the inside facing the optical fiber.
  • the optical fiber is configured for collecting light on the outside, conducting the light to the inside and emitting the light on the inside of the enclosure.
  • the system further includes a reflector for redirecting the light emitted from the optical fiber onto the solar panel.
  • the enclosure further includes a rail on which reflector panel is mounted within the enclosure.
  • the solar panel is mounted on the rail.
  • the system further includes a lens for redirecting the light emitted from the optical fiber onto the solar panel.
  • the system further includes a lens connected to the optical fiber.
  • the system further includes a wavelength filter connected to the optical fiber.
  • the wavelength filter allows light with a frequency between 350 - 800 nm to enter optical fiber.
  • an outer light receiving end of the optical fiber has a transparent protective surface cover.
  • the optical fiber is made from optical fiber glass or transparent polymer tubes.
  • the solar panel includes a photovoltaic cell or module including a rigid panel, rigid thin film or flexible thin film, or combinations thereof.
  • an electrical connector connects the solar panel to an energy storage, an electronic device, an energy grid, or a combination thereof.
  • the electronic device is a sensor, a motion detector, a camera, a microphone, a light, an air conditioner, a heater, a water distillation device, a kitchen appliance, air purifier, computing equipment, power tools, streetlight, traffic lights, emergency lights or beacons, timers, or combinations thereof.
  • the system further includes a lens and/or reflector outside of the enclosure to concentrate light onto the optical fiber.
  • the solar panel contained within the enclosure is hidden within a house, building, yard, other constructed component.
  • a system for clandestine observation including; an electronic sensor powered; a rechargeable battery connected to the electronic sensor and configured for powering the electronic sensor; a solar panel connected to the rechargeable battery for charging the battery; an optical fiber configured to conduct light to the solar panel.
  • the electronic sensor includes a camera, a microphone, or a combination thereof.
  • the solar panel is hidden.
  • the they system further includes an enclosure and wherein the solar panel is hidden within the enclosure and the optical fiber is configured to conduct light from outside the enclosure into the enclosure.
  • the enclosure is disguised as a common object.
  • a method of observing placing an electronic device with a sensor in an area to be observed, powering the device by a rechargeable battery; charging the battery by a solar panel hidden withing the device; and conducting light to the solar panel through an optical fiber.
  • the method further includes hiding the solar panel within an enclosure and wherein the optical fiber conducts light from outside the enclosure into the enclosure.
  • the method further includes disguising the enclosure as a common environmental object.
  • Implementation of the method and/or system of embodiments of the invention can involve performing or completing selected tasks manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of embodiments of the method and/or system of the invention, several selected tasks could be implemented by hardware, by software or by firmware or by a combination thereof using an operating system.
  • a data processor such as a computing platform for executing a plurality of instructions.
  • the data processor includes a volatile memory for storing instructions and/or data and/or a non-volatile storage, for example, a magnetic harddisk and/or removable media, for storing instructions and/or data.
  • a network connection is provided as well.
  • a display and/or a user input device such as a keyboard or mouse are optionally provided as well.
  • FIG. 1A and IB illustrate a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 2 is an expanded view of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 3A-3C illustrate expanded views showing selected details of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 4A-4C illustrate a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 5 is an expanded view showing selected details of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 6 illustrates cut away views of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 7 illustrates cut away views of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a use of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
  • FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate an example of a use of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a use of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 11 is a flow chart illustration of generating power in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 12 is a flow illustration of generating power in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 15 is an image of a power generating system in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.
  • the present invention in some embodiments thereof, relates to a solar energy generating system and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a system with hidden solar collectors.
  • An aspect of some embodiments of the current invention relates to a system for generating energy from one or more hidden solar panels.
  • the solar panels (209) may be hidden in any product with a volume whose upper part is exposed to light, preferably sunlight.
  • the solar panels may not be mounted with direct exposure to sunlight, for example not spread out on a rooftop or in an array on the ground facing the sky.
  • the system may comprise one or more optical fibers and one or more solar panels.
  • the system may absorb light through optical fibers and may conduct it directly to one or more solar panels.
  • the optical fibers may be exposed to light on one end.
  • the optical fibers may scatter photons along their entire length, not only at the end of the optical fiber.
  • the optical fibers may comprise one or more lenses configured to redirect the light from the optical fiber to the solar panel (e.g., the lenses may focus and/or disperse and/or scatter light onto to the solar panels).
  • the optical filters may comprise a wavelength filter.
  • one or more solar panels may be housed in an enclosure.
  • the enclosure may comprise of one or more reflectors configured to redirect the light from the optical fiber to the solar panel (e.g., the lenses may focus and/or disperse and/or scatter light onto to the solar panels).
  • the solar panels may generate energy which may be used directly, transferred to an energy grid and/or stored for later use.
  • the system may be used in any product with a volume whose upper part is exposed to light, for example, sunlight.
  • the positioning of the fibers and/or redirection of the light may even out exposure of the panels.
  • the light emitted onto a panel may be more even across the surface of the panel than the light impinging on the fibers.
  • the fibers may emit light evenly across each panel even when the fibers are exposed unevenly to light.
  • the system may be integrated into the structure of a house, building, garden, yard, playing field other constructed component.
  • the structure may hide the solar panels, and/or to avoid ruining the aesthetic effect of the architecture and/or landscape.
  • the system may take up much less space than a conventional solar array.
  • the system may be hidden underground and/or within the framework of a structure such as a building, so as to allow dual use of the space, without the solar panels dominating the view and/or the land use.
  • a solar panel may be hidden inside a structural element (e.g., a column, an external wall, an internal wall, a ceiling, a floor).
  • the element may be load bearing and/or non-load bearing.
  • FIG. 1A and IB illustrate a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
  • An embodiment, of a solar generator system may comprise, for example: one or more optical fibers (103); one or more solar panels (209); an enclosure (101); electrical connectors (105); one or more reflectors (205); and/or an energy storage.
  • the system may comprise one or more optical fibers (103) and one or more solar panels (209).
  • the system may absorb light through optical fibers (103).
  • the optical fibers (103) may conduct the light into the enclosure (101) and/or may release the light inside the enclosure (101).
  • the optical fibers may receive light and/or illuminate one or more solar panels (209).
  • solar panel refers to a photoelectric/photovoltaic surface which converts light into electricity.
  • the solar panels (209) may consist of photovoltaic cells or modules in the form of one or more rigid panels, rigid thin films, flexible thin films, and/or combinations thereof.
  • the enclosure (101) may protect one or more the solar panels (209).
  • the solar panels (209) may not have a glass cover and/or other transparent protective sheet in front of the solar cells and/or modules.
  • one or more solar panels (209) inside the enclosure (101) may differ from conventional panel in that they may not have a protective cover and/or glass in front of the photovoltaic cells and/or modules.
  • the panel may differ from conventional panels in that it lacks protective and/or structural elements (e.g., an aluminum frame, ballasted footing mounts, etc.).
  • the solar panels (209) may be connected in parallel and/or in series.
  • the one or more solar panels (209) may be housed in an enclosure (101) (e.g., Fig's 1A, IB and 2).
  • the enclosure (101) may have various shapes, for example, barrel, cubic, cuboid, pentagonal, hexagonal, prism, cylindrical, pyramidal, spherical, dodecahedral, etc. and/or combinations thereof (e.g., Fig.'s 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 6 and 7).
  • the enclosure may be lockable, e.g., with one or more latches (207).
  • the enclosure (101) may be opaque, and may be used to trap the light.
  • the enclosure (101) may consist of tempered glass, aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron, zinc alloy, chrome, plastic which may be hardened plastic, rubberized plastic, thermoplastic, polyurethane, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, etc. and/or combinations thereof.
  • the upper ends of the optical fibers (103) may open directly from the enclosure (101) (e.g., Fig. 1).
  • the enclosure (101) may be hidden and/or may be unobtrusive.
  • the enclosure may be installed a distance away from the upper ends of the optical fibers (103), for example, the enclosure may be hidden in a wall, column, buried, under decking, under grass, under pavements, roads, roofs, in cupboards, or other structure (e.g., Fig. 2).
  • the optical fiber upper ends are located outdoors and the enclosure containing the solar panels is located indoors or within the physical structure of the building.
  • the system may consist of a series of enclosures (101) for example, the light from the far end of the optical fibers (103) of one enclosure (101) may enter one or more additional enclosures and/or additional optical fibers (103) may be connected to a first enclosure (101) and may allow light to pass through them into one or more additional enclosures (101).
  • the one or more solar panels (209) may be mounted on one or more rails (211) within the enclosure (101) and/or attached to one or more inner surfaces of the enclosure (101). In an embodiment, one or more solar panels (209) are mounted on the rails (211) so as to face the one or more optical fibers (103).
  • the enclosure (101) may comprise of one or more reflectors (205) which may focus and/or disperse and/or scatter light onto the solar panels.
  • the reflectors (205) increase the amount of light and/or intensify light in the enclosure resulting in a greater amount of energy per system and led the solar panels (209) to convert more light into more electricity.
  • one or more reflectors may be used to illuminate one or more solar panels.
  • the reflectors (205) may be flat, spherical or parabolic.
  • the reflectors (205) may be mirrors or other reflectors that produce a reflection.
  • the reflectors (205) may be straight or angled, depending on the scattering method.
  • the reflectors (205) may be mounted on one or more rails (211) and/or attached to one or more surfaces within the enclosure (101).
  • one or more reflectors (205) may be mounted on one or more sides of the enclosure (101) where there are no solar panels (209) for example on the small sides and/or upper and/or bottom of the enclosure (101).
  • one or more reflectors outside of the enclosure may concentrate light onto the optical fiber.
  • one or more reflector outside the enclosure may be mounted on a solar tracker.
  • the optical fibers (103) may consist of one or more bundles of optical fibers.
  • the optical fibers (103) may be exposed to light on one end. In an embodiment, the optical fibers (103) may scatter light at the end of the optical fiber directly onto one or more solar panels. In and embodiment, the optical fibers (103) may illuminate one or more solar panels (209). In an embodiment, the optical fibers (103) may scatter light at the end of the optical fiber onto one or more reflectors (205) which may focus and/or disperse and/or scatter light onto to one or more solar panels. Optionally one or more reflectors may focus light onto an optical fiber.
  • the optical fibers (103) may scatter photons along all or part of their length, not only at the end of the optical fiber.
  • the light emitted by each optical fiber that emits light along its length may be absorbed by one or more solar panels (209).
  • the optical fibers (103) may consist of transparent polymeric tubes (e.g., poly(methyl methacrylate), butyrate (cellulose acetate butyrate), polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, glycol modified polyethylene terphthalate, polytetrafluoroethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyethylene, etc.) and/or optical fiber glass.
  • transparent polymeric tubes e.g., poly(methyl methacrylate), butyrate (cellulose acetate butyrate), polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, glycol modified polyethylene terphthalate, polytetrafluoroethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyethylene, etc.
  • a single optical fiber and/or bundle of optical fibers (103) and/or a line and/or array of optical fibers (103) may be used in the system (e.g., Fig's IB, 4A, 4C, 6 and 7).
  • the optical fibers (103) may be single-mode or multi-mode optical fibers, and/or combinations thereof.
  • the optical fibers (103) may have a diameter of about 0.05 - 0.1 mm, 0.15 - 0.2 mm, 0.3 - 0.7 mm, 0.5 -1 mm, 1 - 2 mm, 2 - 5 mm, 5 - 7.5 mm, 7.5 -10 mm, 10 - 12.5 mm, 12.5 - 15 mm, 15 - 17.5 mm, 17.5 -20 mm, and/or combinations thereof.
  • the upper ends of the optical fibers (103) and/or bundles of optical fibers (103) may have a surface cover (201) such as a nano-plate to protect them e.g., from dust, water, surface abrasions, etc. (e.g., Fig.'s 2 and 5).
  • the surface cover (201) may be transparent.
  • the optical fibers (103) and/or bundles of optical fibers (103) may have one or more wavelength filters (501) on one or more ends and/or located at a distance from the end of the optical fiber (e.g., Fig.'s 2 and 5).
  • frequencies which produce heat may be filtered out of the wavelengths of light entering the system, for example about 0 - 350 and/or about 800 - 1,500 nm.
  • a wavelength filter may allow light with a wavelength between about 350 - 800 nm, 400 - 700 nm, or 500 - 600 nm to enter the system via one or more optical fibers.
  • optical fibers (103) may comprise one or more lenses (203) to focus and/or disperse and/or filter the light e.g., a Fresnel lens, cylindrical lens, concave lens, convex lens, magnifying lens, compound lens, aspherical lens, gradient index lens, axicon lens, diffractive optical elements, lenticular lens, superlens, ultrathin lens and/or variations thereof.
  • a Fresnel lens e.g., a Fresnel lens, cylindrical lens, concave lens, convex lens, magnifying lens, compound lens, aspherical lens, gradient index lens, axicon lens, diffractive optical elements, lenticular lens, superlens, ultrathin lens and/or variations thereof.
  • the optical fibers (103) and/or bundles of optical fibers (103) may have one or more lenses (203) on one or more ends and/or located at a distance from the end of the optical fiber (e.g., Fig.'s 2 and 5).
  • the lens (203) may be located about 1 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 6 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm, 9 cm, 10 cm, 11 cm, 12 cm 13 cm, 14 cm, 15 cm from an end of an optical fiber.
  • one or more lenses may focus light on to one or more reflectors (205).
  • one or more lenses (203) may increase the intensity of the light.
  • one or more lenses outside of the enclosure may focus light onto an optical fiber.
  • one or more lenses outside of the enclosure may be mounted on a solar tracker.
  • the solar panels (209) may generate electricity which may be used directly, transferred to an energy grid (1107) and/or stored for later use.
  • the system may be connected directly to a device and/or an energy storage apparatus e.g., a rechargeable battery, by one or more electricity connectors (105), and/or an energy grid (1107) and/or one or more electric devices (1105).
  • the batteries may be charged during the day and the energy stored for use at night.
  • the system may comprise additional components, for example an inverter, a charge controller, interconnection wiring, circuit breakers, fuses, disconnect switches, voltage meters, etc.
  • additional components for example an inverter, a charge controller, interconnection wiring, circuit breakers, fuses, disconnect switches, voltage meters, etc.
  • the system may be compact and/or the system may have separate components in different locations, for example, the optical fibers (103) and/or electric cables may extend a distance away from the enclosure (101) (e.g., Fig.'s 6 and 10).
  • the system including the solar panels (209) and/or the upper ends of the optical fibers (103) may be hidden and/or may be unobtrusive.
  • the system may be built into a structure on construction, may be added later on and/or may be installed temporarily.
  • one or more optical fibers (103) may be covered with one or more protective covers (201), connected to one or more filters (501) and/or one or more lenses (203).
  • the optical fibers (103) may be located at a surface such as on the ground, on a roof line, scattered about a garden in decorative formations such as fake rocks and/or statues, and other decorative additions, in a road barrier etc. such that the upper end of the one or more optical fibers (103) may not be contained by an enclosure (101).
  • the optical fibers (103) may then enter a hidden enclosure (101) containing one or more solar panels (209) and reflectors (205) which may be mounted on one or more rails (211) and/or mounted on one or more inner surfaces of the enclosure.
  • the solar panels (209) may be oriented facing the one or more optical fibers (103) within the enclosure.
  • the one or more reflectors (205) may focus, intensify and/or scatter the light.
  • the one or more solar panels (209) may generate electricity which may be conducted by one or more electrical conductors (105) to an electric device (1105), stored in an energy storage for later use by an electronic device (1105), and/or transferred to an energy grid (1107).
  • light from a light source (1201) may be received by one or more optical fibers (103), the light may be conducted through the one or more optical fibers (103) into an enclosure (101) comprising a solar panel (209) and the light from the optical fiber may be emitted onto a solar panel to generate electricity which is sent back out of the enclosure via a connector (1103) to a power sink (e.g., a battery and/or power grid and/or a device).
  • the one or more optical fibers may comprise one or more of a protective cover, a filter and/or a lens.
  • the enclosure may comprise one or more reflectors and/or one or more rails.
  • light (1101) is received by one/or more optical fibers, the one or more of the optical fibers carrying the light enter an enclosure (101) containing one or more solar panels (209).
  • the light may be absorbed by one/or more solar panels (209) and/or reflected onto one or more solar panels by one or more reflectors (205), which generate electricity (1103) which may be used to directly power a device, transferred to an energy grid (1107) and/or stored for later use in one/or more energy storage devices (1105), and may later be used to power a device (1105).
  • the system may be installed in one or more barriers (803) between lanes on a road.
  • the system may absorb sunlight during the day and/or light from the headlights of passing cars at night.
  • the system may be used to power one or more streetlights (801), traffic lights, emergency lights or beacons and/or lights for work crews at night (804).
  • the system may be installed in one or more fake rocks (903) of various sizes, such that the optical fibers upper ends may be located in the fake or decorative rock and the enclosure may be hidden in a different location.
  • the electricity produced by the system may be used to power for example garden lights, security lights, a device with a sensor, a motion detector, a microphone, a camera (901) (for example, a security camera and/or a spy camera), a doorbell, a motion detector, timer, etc.
  • a method of surreptitiously observing using a device with a sensor such as a camera (901) and/or microphone, which may be powered by a rechargeable battery charged by a solar panel (209) with light conducted through an optical fiber (103).
  • the system may be installed with the upper ends of the optical fibers in a garden, yard or playing field (e.g., under real or synthetic grass (1003)), along the edges of a path, under decking (1001), along the edges of pavements (1002), along the edges and/or the dividing line of roads, road barriers (Fig.8, 803), along the edge of guttering of a roof, windowsills, roof ridges, chimneys, air conditioning units, along existing power infrastructure (e.g., the flat sections of towers), decorative columns, outdoor handrails, in statues, and/or any product with a volume whose upper part may be exposed to light, preferably sunlight, while the enclosure comprising one or more solar panels may be hidden a distance away.
  • a garden, yard or playing field e.g., under real or synthetic grass (1003)
  • a path e.g., under decking (1001), along the edges of pavements (1002), along the edges and/or the dividing line of roads, road barriers (Fig.8, 803), along the
  • the system may be used to power any electronic device (1105), for example, lights, heating, air conditioning, water distillation, air purifier, kitchen appliance, computing equipment, cameras, microphone, power tools, etc.
  • electronic device for example, lights, heating, air conditioning, water distillation, air purifier, kitchen appliance, computing equipment, cameras, microphone, power tools, etc.
  • Figure 15 is an image of a power generating system 1500 in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.
  • a top surface of the device may include a deck 1581.
  • optical fibers 1582 are exposed through the deck. The optical fibers 1582, optionally, transmit light into a hollow portion
  • solar panels receive light transmitted through the optical fibers 1582 and/or produce electricity.
  • the hollow portion 1583 of the system 1500 is buried in the ground with deck 1581 exposed along the ground surface.
  • a space for example, a space
  • the 1584 may be filled with soil and/or plants may be planted in an opening 1585 in the deck 1501.
  • power generated by the solar panels may be used to drive irrigation of the plants and/or for an electrical outlet that may be exposed (for example through deck 1581).
  • compositions, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and/or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and/or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.
  • range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.
  • a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range.
  • the phrases “ranging/ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging/ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.

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Abstract

A system or method for generating energy comprising receiving light into an optical fiber, conducting the light through the optical fiber, and emitting the light from the optical fiber onto a hidden solar panel. The system for generating electricity from light comprising an enclosure comprising an optical fiber passing from the outside of the enclosure to the inside of the enclosure and a solar panel having a collector side on said inside facing said optical fiber.

Description

A SYSTEM FOR GENERATING ENERGY FROM HIDDEN SOLAR PANELS
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a solar energy generating system and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a system with hidden solar collectors.
Solar energy is a source of clean, renewable energy. It can be harnessed using solar panels. More and more people are installing solar panels in their houses or on their building in order to take advantage of this resource to reduce electricity bills, reduce fossil fuel consumption, and/or to receive payments for the surplus energy that is export back to the energy grid.
Solar energy can be used to produce electricity in areas without access to the energy grid, for example to heat houses, distil water in regions with limited clean water supplies and to power satellites in space.
The amount of solar energy produced may depend on the surface area of the solar panel and/or the light intensity. In some situations, the more solar panels the more energy is produced. Solar panels require a lot of space, and some roofs or yards are not big enough to fit the number of solar panels required to power a home, building or commercial enterprise, particularly in urban environments.
Solar farms may sometimes be used as a power source in some areas of the world. For example, the solar panels may be mounted on the ground. Such solar farms may use large tracts of land to. In some cases, solar installations take up considerably larger areas of land in comparison to windfarms.
Carbon Tracker Initiative, "The sky’s the limit", April 2021 estimated that the land area needed to generate all our energy from solar alone was 450,000 km2 or about the same as the area of Sweden, the area of Morocco, or the area of California (0.3% of the Earth's total land area).
In some cases, solar energy can be collected during cloudy and rainy days. Sometimes efficiency of the solar system may be reduced by overcast conditions. The positioning and orientation of the solar panel relative to the sun (east-west oriented, north-south oriented, solar tracking, the angle of the panel relative to the angle of incident radiation, etc.) may influence the efficiency of the system. Finding a suitable location for a solar panel is not trivial. Additionally, in some environments, solar panels may not be aesthetically pleasing.
Therefore, there is a need for a system which produces electricity from solar radiation but does not take up a great deal of space, is not limited in its placement to conventional areas for solar collection such as roofs and large tracts of land, and can be integrated into structures such as a house, building, garden, yard, playing field or other conventional building equipment.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a method for generating energy including: receiving light into an optical fiber; conducting the light through the optical fiber; and emitting the light from the optical fiber onto a solar panel.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the conducting is from outside of an enclosure to inside the enclosure.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes hiding the solar panel.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the hiding the solar panel is inside a structural element of a house, building, yard, other constructed component.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes converting the light into electricity and transferring the electricity through an electrical connector.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the conducting is through an electrical connector connected to an energy storage, an electronic device, an energy grid, or a combination thereof.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes storing the energy in the energy storage which is a rechargeable battery.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the method includes powering the electronic device such as a sensor, a motion detector, a camera, a microphone, a light, an air conditioner, a heater, a water distillation device, a kitchen appliance, air purifier, computing equipment, power tools, streetlight, traffic lights, emergency lights or beacons, timers, or combinations thereof.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes redirecting the light emitted from the optical fiber onto the solar panel.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the redirecting is by a reflector or a lens and further including supporting the reflector or the lens on a rail.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes supporting the solar panel on the rail.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the method filtering the light to limit the emitting to a frequency between 350 - 800 nm.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes trapping the light in the enclosure.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes concentrating light onto the optical fiber.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the concentrating is with a lens.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the concentrating is with a reflector.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the conducting is from outside of an enclosure to inside the enclosure and wherein is the concentrating is of light outside of the enclosure.
According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a system for generating electricity from light including: an enclosure having an inside and an outside; an optical fiber passing from the outside to the inside; and a solar panel having a collector side on the inside facing the optical fiber.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the optical fiber is configured for collecting light on the outside, conducting the light to the inside and emitting the light on the inside of the enclosure.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a reflector for redirecting the light emitted from the optical fiber onto the solar panel. According to some embodiments of the invention, the enclosure further includes a rail on which reflector panel is mounted within the enclosure.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar panel is mounted on the rail.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a lens for redirecting the light emitted from the optical fiber onto the solar panel.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a lens connected to the optical fiber.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a wavelength filter connected to the optical fiber.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the wavelength filter allows light with a frequency between 350 - 800 nm to enter optical fiber.
According to some embodiments of the invention, an outer light receiving end of the optical fiber has a transparent protective surface cover.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the optical fiber is made from optical fiber glass or transparent polymer tubes.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar panel includes a photovoltaic cell or module including a rigid panel, rigid thin film or flexible thin film, or combinations thereof.
According to some embodiments of the invention, an electrical connector connects the solar panel to an energy storage, an electronic device, an energy grid, or a combination thereof.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the electronic device is a sensor, a motion detector, a camera, a microphone, a light, an air conditioner, a heater, a water distillation device, a kitchen appliance, air purifier, computing equipment, power tools, streetlight, traffic lights, emergency lights or beacons, timers, or combinations thereof.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a lens and/or reflector outside of the enclosure to concentrate light onto the optical fiber. According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar panel contained within the enclosure is hidden within a house, building, yard, other constructed component.
According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a system for clandestine observation including; an electronic sensor powered; a rechargeable battery connected to the electronic sensor and configured for powering the electronic sensor; a solar panel connected to the rechargeable battery for charging the battery; an optical fiber configured to conduct light to the solar panel.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the electronic sensor includes a camera, a microphone, or a combination thereof.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar panel is hidden.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the they system further includes an enclosure and wherein the solar panel is hidden within the enclosure and the optical fiber is configured to conduct light from outside the enclosure into the enclosure.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the enclosure is disguised as a common object.
According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a method of observing: placing an electronic device with a sensor in an area to be observed, powering the device by a rechargeable battery; charging the battery by a solar panel hidden withing the device; and conducting light to the solar panel through an optical fiber.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes hiding the solar panel within an enclosure and wherein the optical fiber conducts light from outside the enclosure into the enclosure.
According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes disguising the enclosure as a common environmental object.
Implementation of the method and/or system of embodiments of the invention can involve performing or completing selected tasks manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of embodiments of the method and/or system of the invention, several selected tasks could be implemented by hardware, by software or by firmware or by a combination thereof using an operating system.
For example, hardware for performing selected tasks according to embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a chip or a circuit. As software, selected tasks according to embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, one or more tasks according to exemplary embodiments of method and/or system as described herein are performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform for executing a plurality of instructions. Optionally, the data processor includes a volatile memory for storing instructions and/or data and/or a non-volatile storage, for example, a magnetic harddisk and/or removable media, for storing instructions and/or data. Optionally, a network connection is provided as well. A display and/or a user input device such as a keyboard or mouse are optionally provided as well.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.
In the drawings:
Figure 1A and IB illustrate a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 is an expanded view of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 3A-3C illustrate expanded views showing selected details of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 4A-4C illustrate a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; Figure 5 is an expanded view showing selected details of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 6 illustrates cut away views of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 7 illustrates cut away views of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 8 illustrates an example of a use of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figures 9A and 9B illustrate an example of a use of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 10 illustrates an example of a use of a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 11 is a flow chart illustration of generating power in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 12 is a flow illustration of generating power in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 13 is a block diagram illustrating a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 14 is a block diagram illustrating a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, and
Figure 15 is an image of a power generating system in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.
DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a solar energy generating system and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a system with hidden solar collectors.
Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the drawings and/or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Overview
An aspect of some embodiments of the current invention relates to a system for generating energy from one or more hidden solar panels. In an embodiment, the solar panels (209) may be hidden in any product with a volume whose upper part is exposed to light, preferably sunlight. In an embodiment, the solar panels may not be mounted with direct exposure to sunlight, for example not spread out on a rooftop or in an array on the ground facing the sky.
In an embodiment, the system may comprise one or more optical fibers and one or more solar panels. In an embodiment, the system may absorb light through optical fibers and may conduct it directly to one or more solar panels. In an embodiment, the optical fibers may be exposed to light on one end. In an embodiment, the optical fibers may scatter photons along their entire length, not only at the end of the optical fiber. In an embodiment, the optical fibers may comprise one or more lenses configured to redirect the light from the optical fiber to the solar panel (e.g., the lenses may focus and/or disperse and/or scatter light onto to the solar panels). In an embodiment, the optical filters may comprise a wavelength filter. In an embodiment, one or more solar panels may be housed in an enclosure. In an embodiment, the enclosure may comprise of one or more reflectors configured to redirect the light from the optical fiber to the solar panel (e.g., the lenses may focus and/or disperse and/or scatter light onto to the solar panels). In an embodiment, the solar panels may generate energy which may be used directly, transferred to an energy grid and/or stored for later use. In an embodiment, the system may be used in any product with a volume whose upper part is exposed to light, for example, sunlight. In some embodiments, the positioning of the fibers and/or redirection of the light may even out exposure of the panels. For example, the light emitted onto a panel may be more even across the surface of the panel than the light impinging on the fibers. For example, the fibers may emit light evenly across each panel even when the fibers are exposed unevenly to light.
In an embodiment, the system may be integrated into the structure of a house, building, garden, yard, playing field other constructed component. For example, the structure may hide the solar panels, and/or to avoid ruining the aesthetic effect of the architecture and/or landscape. In an embodiment, the system may take up much less space than a conventional solar array. In an embodiment, the system may be hidden underground and/or within the framework of a structure such as a building, so as to allow dual use of the space, without the solar panels dominating the view and/or the land use. For example, a solar panel may be hidden inside a structural element (e.g., a column, an external wall, an internal wall, a ceiling, a floor). Optionally the element may be load bearing and/or non-load bearing.
Exemplary Embodiments
Figure 1A and IB illustrate a solar generator in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. An embodiment, of a solar generator system may comprise, for example: one or more optical fibers (103); one or more solar panels (209); an enclosure (101); electrical connectors (105); one or more reflectors (205); and/or an energy storage.
In an embodiment, the system may comprise one or more optical fibers (103) and one or more solar panels (209).
In an embodiment, the system may absorb light through optical fibers (103). Optionally, the optical fibers (103) may conduct the light into the enclosure (101) and/or may release the light inside the enclosure (101). In some embodiments, the optical fibers may receive light and/or illuminate one or more solar panels (209).
The term "solar panel" refers to a photoelectric/photovoltaic surface which converts light into electricity.
In an embodiment, the solar panels (209) may consist of photovoltaic cells or modules in the form of one or more rigid panels, rigid thin films, flexible thin films, and/or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the enclosure (101) may protect one or more the solar panels (209). In an embodiment, the solar panels (209) may not have a glass cover and/or other transparent protective sheet in front of the solar cells and/or modules. Optionally, one or more solar panels (209) inside the enclosure (101) may differ from conventional panel in that they may not have a protective cover and/or glass in front of the photovoltaic cells and/or modules. Alternatively, and/or additionally, the panel may differ from conventional panels in that it lacks protective and/or structural elements (e.g., an aluminum frame, ballasted footing mounts, etc.). In an embodiment, the solar panels (209) may be connected in parallel and/or in series.
In an embodiment, the one or more solar panels (209) may be housed in an enclosure (101) (e.g., Fig's 1A, IB and 2). Optionally the enclosure (101) may have various shapes, for example, barrel, cubic, cuboid, pentagonal, hexagonal, prism, cylindrical, pyramidal, spherical, dodecahedral, etc. and/or combinations thereof (e.g., Fig.'s 3A-3C, 4A-4C, 6 and 7). Optionally, the enclosure may be lockable, e.g., with one or more latches (207). In an embodiment, the enclosure (101) may be opaque, and may be used to trap the light.
In an embodiment, the enclosure (101) may consist of tempered glass, aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron, zinc alloy, chrome, plastic which may be hardened plastic, rubberized plastic, thermoplastic, polyurethane, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, etc. and/or combinations thereof.
In an embodiment, the upper ends of the optical fibers (103) may open directly from the enclosure (101) (e.g., Fig. 1). In an embodiment, the enclosure (101) may be hidden and/or may be unobtrusive. Optionally, the enclosure may be installed a distance away from the upper ends of the optical fibers (103), for example, the enclosure may be hidden in a wall, column, buried, under decking, under grass, under pavements, roads, roofs, in cupboards, or other structure (e.g., Fig. 2). Optionally, the optical fiber upper ends are located outdoors and the enclosure containing the solar panels is located indoors or within the physical structure of the building.
In an embodiment, the system may consist of a series of enclosures (101) for example, the light from the far end of the optical fibers (103) of one enclosure (101) may enter one or more additional enclosures and/or additional optical fibers (103) may be connected to a first enclosure (101) and may allow light to pass through them into one or more additional enclosures (101).
In an embodiment, the one or more solar panels (209) may be mounted on one or more rails (211) within the enclosure (101) and/or attached to one or more inner surfaces of the enclosure (101). In an embodiment, one or more solar panels (209) are mounted on the rails (211) so as to face the one or more optical fibers (103).
In an embodiment, the enclosure (101) may comprise of one or more reflectors (205) which may focus and/or disperse and/or scatter light onto the solar panels. For example, the position of the fibers and/or the Optionally, the reflectors (205) increase the amount of light and/or intensify light in the enclosure resulting in a greater amount of energy per system and led the solar panels (209) to convert more light into more electricity. Optionally, one or more reflectors may be used to illuminate one or more solar panels. Optionally, the reflectors (205) may be flat, spherical or parabolic. Optionally, the reflectors (205) may be mirrors or other reflectors that produce a reflection. Optionally, the reflectors (205) may be straight or angled, depending on the scattering method. Optionally, the reflectors (205) may be mounted on one or more rails (211) and/or attached to one or more surfaces within the enclosure (101). Optionally, one or more reflectors (205) may be mounted on one or more sides of the enclosure (101) where there are no solar panels (209) for example on the small sides and/or upper and/or bottom of the enclosure (101). Optionally, one or more reflectors outside of the enclosure may concentrate light onto the optical fiber. Optionally, one or more reflector outside the enclosure may be mounted on a solar tracker.
In an embodiment, the optical fibers (103) may consist of one or more bundles of optical fibers.
In an embodiment, the optical fibers (103) may be exposed to light on one end. In an embodiment, the optical fibers (103) may scatter light at the end of the optical fiber directly onto one or more solar panels. In and embodiment, the optical fibers (103) may illuminate one or more solar panels (209). In an embodiment, the optical fibers (103) may scatter light at the end of the optical fiber onto one or more reflectors (205) which may focus and/or disperse and/or scatter light onto to one or more solar panels. Optionally one or more reflectors may focus light onto an optical fiber.
In an embodiment, the optical fibers (103) may scatter photons along all or part of their length, not only at the end of the optical fiber. Optionally, the light emitted by each optical fiber that emits light along its length may be absorbed by one or more solar panels (209).
In an embodiment, the optical fibers (103) may consist of transparent polymeric tubes (e.g., poly(methyl methacrylate), butyrate (cellulose acetate butyrate), polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, glycol modified polyethylene terphthalate, polytetrafluoroethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyethylene, etc.) and/or optical fiber glass.
In an embodiment, a single optical fiber and/or bundle of optical fibers (103) and/or a line and/or array of optical fibers (103) may be used in the system (e.g., Fig's IB, 4A, 4C, 6 and 7). In an embodiment, the optical fibers (103) may be single-mode or multi-mode optical fibers, and/or combinations thereof. Optionally, the optical fibers (103) may have a diameter of about 0.05 - 0.1 mm, 0.15 - 0.2 mm, 0.3 - 0.7 mm, 0.5 -1 mm, 1 - 2 mm, 2 - 5 mm, 5 - 7.5 mm, 7.5 -10 mm, 10 - 12.5 mm, 12.5 - 15 mm, 15 - 17.5 mm, 17.5 -20 mm, and/or combinations thereof.
In an embodiment, the upper ends of the optical fibers (103) and/or bundles of optical fibers (103) may have a surface cover (201) such as a nano-plate to protect them e.g., from dust, water, surface abrasions, etc. (e.g., Fig.'s 2 and 5). Optionally, the surface cover (201) may be transparent.
In an embodiment, the optical fibers (103) and/or bundles of optical fibers (103) may have one or more wavelength filters (501) on one or more ends and/or located at a distance from the end of the optical fiber (e.g., Fig.'s 2 and 5). In an embodiment, frequencies which produce heat may be filtered out of the wavelengths of light entering the system, for example about 0 - 350 and/or about 800 - 1,500 nm. In an embodiment, a wavelength filter may allow light with a wavelength between about 350 - 800 nm, 400 - 700 nm, or 500 - 600 nm to enter the system via one or more optical fibers.
In an embodiment, the system may capture and/or focus light onto and/or into and/or through the optical fibers. For example, optical fibers (103) may comprise one or more lenses (203) to focus and/or disperse and/or filter the light e.g., a Fresnel lens, cylindrical lens, concave lens, convex lens, magnifying lens, compound lens, aspherical lens, gradient index lens, axicon lens, diffractive optical elements, lenticular lens, superlens, ultrathin lens and/or variations thereof. In an embodiment, the optical fibers (103) and/or bundles of optical fibers (103) may have one or more lenses (203) on one or more ends and/or located at a distance from the end of the optical fiber (e.g., Fig.'s 2 and 5). Optionally, the lens (203) may be located about 1 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 6 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm, 9 cm, 10 cm, 11 cm, 12 cm 13 cm, 14 cm, 15 cm from an end of an optical fiber. Optionally, one or more lenses may focus light on to one or more reflectors (205). Optionally, one or more lenses (203) may increase the intensity of the light. Optionally, one or more lenses outside of the enclosure may focus light onto an optical fiber. Optionally, one or more lenses outside of the enclosure may be mounted on a solar tracker.
In an embodiment, the solar panels (209) may generate electricity which may be used directly, transferred to an energy grid (1107) and/or stored for later use. In an embodiment, the system may be connected directly to a device and/or an energy storage apparatus e.g., a rechargeable battery, by one or more electricity connectors (105), and/or an energy grid (1107) and/or one or more electric devices (1105). In an embodiment, the batteries may be charged during the day and the energy stored for use at night.
In an embodiment, the system may comprise additional components, for example an inverter, a charge controller, interconnection wiring, circuit breakers, fuses, disconnect switches, voltage meters, etc.
In an embodiment the system may be compact and/or the system may have separate components in different locations, for example, the optical fibers (103) and/or electric cables may extend a distance away from the enclosure (101) (e.g., Fig.'s 6 and 10).
In an embodiment, the system including the solar panels (209) and/or the upper ends of the optical fibers (103) may be hidden and/or may be unobtrusive. In an embodiment, the system may be built into a structure on construction, may be added later on and/or may be installed temporarily.
In an embodiment, (e.g., Fig 13) one or more optical fibers (103) may be covered with one or more protective covers (201), connected to one or more filters (501) and/or one or more lenses (203). The optical fibers (103) may be located at a surface such as on the ground, on a roof line, scattered about a garden in decorative formations such as fake rocks and/or statues, and other decorative additions, in a road barrier etc. such that the upper end of the one or more optical fibers (103) may not be contained by an enclosure (101). The optical fibers (103) may then enter a hidden enclosure (101) containing one or more solar panels (209) and reflectors (205) which may be mounted on one or more rails (211) and/or mounted on one or more inner surfaces of the enclosure. The solar panels (209) may be oriented facing the one or more optical fibers (103) within the enclosure. The one or more reflectors (205) may focus, intensify and/or scatter the light. The one or more solar panels (209) may generate electricity which may be conducted by one or more electrical conductors (105) to an electric device (1105), stored in an energy storage for later use by an electronic device (1105), and/or transferred to an energy grid (1107).
In an embodiment, (e.g., Fig.'s 12 and 14) light from a light source (1201) (e.g., the sun) may be received by one or more optical fibers (103), the light may be conducted through the one or more optical fibers (103) into an enclosure (101) comprising a solar panel (209) and the light from the optical fiber may be emitted onto a solar panel to generate electricity which is sent back out of the enclosure via a connector (1103) to a power sink (e.g., a battery and/or power grid and/or a device). Optionally, the one or more optical fibers may comprise one or more of a protective cover, a filter and/or a lens. Optionally, the enclosure may comprise one or more reflectors and/or one or more rails.
In an embodiment, (e.g., Fig. 11) light (1101) is received by one/or more optical fibers, the one or more of the optical fibers carrying the light enter an enclosure (101) containing one or more solar panels (209). The light may be absorbed by one/or more solar panels (209) and/or reflected onto one or more solar panels by one or more reflectors (205), which generate electricity (1103) which may be used to directly power a device, transferred to an energy grid (1107) and/or stored for later use in one/or more energy storage devices (1105), and may later be used to power a device (1105).
For example, (e.g., Fig. 8) the system may be installed in one or more barriers (803) between lanes on a road. Optionally, the system may absorb sunlight during the day and/or light from the headlights of passing cars at night. The system may be used to power one or more streetlights (801), traffic lights, emergency lights or beacons and/or lights for work crews at night (804).
For example, (e.g., Fig.'s 9A and 9B) the system may be installed in one or more fake rocks (903) of various sizes, such that the optical fibers upper ends may be located in the fake or decorative rock and the enclosure may be hidden in a different location. The electricity produced by the system may be used to power for example garden lights, security lights, a device with a sensor, a motion detector, a microphone, a camera (901) (for example, a security camera and/or a spy camera), a doorbell, a motion detector, timer, etc.
For example, a method of surreptitiously observing using a device with a sensor, such as a camera (901) and/or microphone, which may be powered by a rechargeable battery charged by a solar panel (209) with light conducted through an optical fiber (103).
For example, (e.g., Fig. 10) the system may be installed with the upper ends of the optical fibers in a garden, yard or playing field (e.g., under real or synthetic grass (1003)), along the edges of a path, under decking (1001), along the edges of pavements (1002), along the edges and/or the dividing line of roads, road barriers (Fig.8, 803), along the edge of guttering of a roof, windowsills, roof ridges, chimneys, air conditioning units, along existing power infrastructure (e.g., the flat sections of towers), decorative columns, outdoor handrails, in statues, and/or any product with a volume whose upper part may be exposed to light, preferably sunlight, while the enclosure comprising one or more solar panels may be hidden a distance away.
For example, the system may be used to power any electronic device (1105), for example, lights, heating, air conditioning, water distillation, air purifier, kitchen appliance, computing equipment, cameras, microphone, power tools, etc.
Figure 15 is an image of a power generating system 1500 in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, a top surface of the device may include a deck 1581. In some embodiments, optical fibers 1582 are exposed through the deck. The optical fibers 1582, optionally, transmit light into a hollow portion
1583 of the system. Optionally, inside the hollow portion 1583 (for example, along the inner walls thereof) solar panels receive light transmitted through the optical fibers 1582 and/or produce electricity.
In some embodiments, the hollow portion 1583 of the system 1500 is buried in the ground with deck 1581 exposed along the ground surface. For example, a space
1584 may be filled with soil and/or plants may be planted in an opening 1585 in the deck 1501. Optionally, power generated by the solar panels may be used to drive irrigation of the plants and/or for an electrical outlet that may be exposed (for example through deck 1581).
It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing from this application many relevant building technologies, artificial intelligence methodologies, computer user interfaces, image capture devices will be developed and the scope of the terms for design elements, analysis routines, user devices is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and/or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting. As used herein the term “about” refers to ± 10%
The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", “having” and their conjugates mean "including but not limited to".
The term “consisting of’ means “including and limited to”.
The term "consisting essentially of means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and/or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and/or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.
As used herein, the singular form "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.
Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging/ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging/ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.
It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.
Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.
All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Claims

What is Claimed is:
1. A method for generating energy comprising: receiving light into an optical fiber; conducting the light through the optical fiber; and emitting the light from the optical fiber onto a solar panel.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein said conducting is from outside of an enclosure to inside the enclosure.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising hiding the solar panel.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein said hiding the solar panel is inside a structural element of a house, building, yard, other constructed component.
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising converting said light into electricity and transferring the electricity through an electrical connector.
6. The method of claim 5, wherein the conducting is through an electrical connector connected to an energy storage, an electronic device, an energy grid, or a combination thereof.
7. The method of claim 6, further comprising storing the energy in the energy storage which is a rechargeable battery.
8. The method of claim 6, comprising powering the electronic device such as a sensor, a motion detector, a camera, a microphone, a light, an air conditioner, a heater, a water distillation device, a kitchen appliance, air purifier, computing equipment, power tools, streetlight, traffic lights, emergency lights or beacons, timers, or combinations thereof.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprising redirecting the light emitted from the optical fiber onto the solar panel.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein said redirecting is by a reflector or a lens and further comprising supporting said reflector or said lens on a rail.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising supporting said solar panel on said rail.
12. The method of claim 1, filtering said light to limit said emitting to a frequency between 350 - 800 nm.
13. The method of claim 2, further comprising trapping the light in the enclosure.
14. The method of claim 1, further comprising concentrating light onto said optical fiber.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein said concentrating is with a lens.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein said concentrating is with a reflector.
17. The method of claim 14, wherein said conducting is from outside of an enclosure to inside the enclosure and wherein is said concentrating is of light outside of the enclosure.
18. A system for generating electricity from light comprising: an enclosure having an inside and an outside; an optical fiber passing from the outside to the inside; and a solar panel having a collector side on said inside facing said optical fiber.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the optical fiber is configured for collecting light on the outside, conducting the light to the inside and emitting the light on the inside of the enclosure.
20. The system of claim 18, further comprising a reflector for redirecting the light emitted from the optical fiber onto the solar panel.
21. The system of claim 20, the enclosure further comprising a rail on which reflector panel is mounted within the enclosure.
22. The system of claim 21, wherein the solar panel is mounted on the rail.
23. The system of claim 18, further comprising a lens for redirecting the light emitted from the optical fiber onto the solar panel.
24. The system of claim 18, further comprising a lens connected to the optical fiber.
25. The system of claim 18, further comprising a wavelength filter connected to the optical fiber.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the wavelength filter allows light with a frequency between 350 - 800 nm to enter optical fiber.
27. The system of claim 18, wherein an outer light receiving end of the optical fiber has a transparent protective surface cover.
28. The system of claim 18, wherein the optical fiber is made from optical fiber glass or transparent polymer tubes.
29. The system of claim 18, wherein the solar panel comprises a photovoltaic cell or module including a rigid panel, rigid thin film or flexible thin film, or combinations thereof.
30. The system of claim 18, wherein an electrical connector connects the solar panel to an energy storage, an electronic device, an energy grid, or a combination thereof.
31. The system of claim 30, wherein the electronic device is a sensor, a motion detector, a camera, a microphone, a light, an air conditioner, a heater, a water distillation device, a kitchen appliance, air purifier, computing equipment, power tools, streetlight, traffic lights, emergency lights or beacons, timers, or combinations thereof.
32. The system of claim 18, further comprising a lens and/or reflector outside of the enclosure to concentrate light onto the optical fiber.
33. The system of claim 18, wherein the solar panel contained within the enclosure is hidden within a house, building, yard, other constructed component.
34. A system for clandestine observation comprising; an electronic sensor powered; a rechargeable battery connected to said electronic sensor and configured for powering said electronic sensor; a solar panel connected to said rechargeable battery for charging the battery; an optical fiber configured to conduct light to the solar panel.
35. The system of claim 34, wherein the electronic sensor includes a camera, a microphone, or a combination thereof.
36. The system of claim 34, wherein the solar panel is hidden.
37. They system of claim 36, further comprising an enclosure and wherein the solar panel is hidden within the enclosure and the optical fiber is configured to conduct light from outside the enclosure into the enclosure.
38. The system of claim 37, wherein the enclosure is disguised as a common object.
39. A method of observing: placing an electronic device with a sensor in an area to be observed, powering the device by a rechargeable battery; charging the battery by a solar panel hidden withing the device; and conducting light to the solar panel through an optical fiber.
40. The method of claim 39, further comprising hiding the solar panel within an enclosure and wherein the optical fiber conducts light from outside the enclosure into the enclosure.
41. The method of claim 40, further comprising disguising the enclosure as a common environmental object.
PCT/IL2021/051491 2021-12-14 2021-12-14 A system for generating energy from hidden solar panels Ceased WO2023112014A1 (en)

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Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
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Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN109672854A (en) * 2018-10-15 2019-04-23 南京杰迈视讯科技有限公司 A kind of full-time wireless PTZ video monitoring system
US20190131921A1 (en) * 2017-05-18 2019-05-02 Seok Man BAE Solar power generation unit using optical fibers and power generation system implementing the unit
EP3591720A1 (en) * 2018-07-02 2020-01-08 Suk Man Bae Solar power generation unit and system

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20190131921A1 (en) * 2017-05-18 2019-05-02 Seok Man BAE Solar power generation unit using optical fibers and power generation system implementing the unit
EP3591720A1 (en) * 2018-07-02 2020-01-08 Suk Man Bae Solar power generation unit and system
CN109672854A (en) * 2018-10-15 2019-04-23 南京杰迈视讯科技有限公司 A kind of full-time wireless PTZ video monitoring system

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