US 2011 O168232A1

(19) United States

(12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2011/0168232 A1
Gibson et al. (43) Pub. Date: Jul. 14, 2011

(54) METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING (52) U.S. Cl. ........................................................ 136/246
SS FOR CONCENTRATED SOLAR (57) ABSTRACT
According to an embodiment, the present invention provides
(75) Inventors: Kevin Gibson, Redwood City, CA a system for collecting Solar energy. The system includes a
(US); Richard Martin, Livermore, Solar panel, the Solar panel comprising a plurality of photo
CA (US) Voltaic strips, the plurality of photovoltaic strips including a
first strip and a second strip, the first Strip and the second strip
(73) Assignee: Solaria Corporation, Fremont, CA being substantially parallel to each other, the plurality of
(US) photovoltaic strips being electrically coupled to one another,
the Solar panel including a front cover member, the front
(21) Appl. No.: 12/687,789 cover member including a plurality of concentrator elements,
the plurality of photovoltaic strips being aligned to the plu
(22) Filed: Jan. 14, 2010 rality of concentrator elements, the plurality of concentrator
e - rs elements including a first concentrator element and a second
O O concentrator element, the first concentrator element and the
Publication Classification second concentrator element being separated by a notch, the
(51) Int. Cl. first concentrator being associated with a first angle and a
HOIL 3L/042 (2006.01) Second angle,

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US 2011/0168232 A1 Jul. 14, 2011

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING our energy requirements and reduce the world's dependence
TRACKING FOR CONCENTRATED SOLAR on oil and other potentially detrimental sources of energy.
MODULES 0007 Although solar panels have been used successfully
for certain applications, there are still limitations. Often, solar
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION panels are unable to convert energy at their full potential due
0001. The present application relates generally to a track to the fact that the Sun is often at an angle that is not optimum
ing system for Solar panels. More specifically, embodiments for the Solar cells to receive solar energy. In the past, various
of the present invention provide tracking systems that are types of conventional Solar tracking mechanisms have been
Suitable for Solar panels that include concentrator elements. developed. Unfortunately, conventional Solar tracking tech
In a specific embodiment, a tracking system according to the niques are often inadequate. These and other limitations are
present invention selects from two or more angles for Solar described throughout the present specification, and may be
described in more detail below.
panels facing the Sun, where at a first angle a solar region 0008. From the above, it is seen that techniques for
receives light from one concentrator element, and at a second improving Solar systems are highly desirable.
angle the Solar region receives light from a different concen
trator element. In various embodiments, Solar panels rotate to BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
angles that minimize shadowing. There are other embodi
ments as well. 0009. The present application relates generally to a track
0002. As the population of the world increases, industrial ing system for Solar panels. More specifically, embodiments
expansion has lead to an equally large consumption of energy. of the present invention provide tracking systems that are
Energy often comes from fossil fuels, including coal and oil, Suitable for Solar panels that include concentrator elements.
hydroelectric plants, nuclear Sources, and others. As an In a specific embodiment, a tracking system according to the
example, the International Energy Agency projects further present invention selects from two or more angles for Solar
increases in oil consumption, with developing nations such as panels facing the Sun, where at a first angle a solar region
China and India accounting for most of the increase. Almost receives light from one concentrator element, and at a second
every element of our daily lives depends, in part, on oil, which angle the Solar region receives light from a different concen
is becoming increasingly scarce. As time further progresses, trator element. In various embodiments, Solar panels rotate to
an era of “cheap' and plentiful oil is coming to an end. angles that minimize shadowing. There are other embodi
Accordingly, other and alternative sources of energy have ments as well.
been developed. 0010. According to an embodiment, the present invention
0003 Concurrent with oil, we have also relied upon other provides a system for collecting Solar energy. The system
very useful sources of energy Such as hydroelectric, nuclear, includes a Solar panel, the Solar panel comprising a plurality
and the like to provide our electricity needs. As an example, of photovoltaic strips, the plurality of photovoltaic strips
most of our conventional electricity requirements for home including a first strip and a second strip, the first strip and the
and business use come from turbines run on coal or other second strip being Substantially parallel to each other, the
forms of fossil fuel, nuclear power generation plants, and plurality of photovoltaic strips being electrically coupled to
hydroelectric plants, as well as other forms of renewable one another, the Solar panel including a front cover member,
energy. Often times, home and business use of electrical the front cover member including a plurality of concentrator
power has been stable and widespread. elements, the plurality of photovoltaic strips being aligned to
0004 Most importantly, much if not all of the useful the plurality of concentrator elements, the plurality of con
energy found on the Earth comes from our Sun. Generally all centrator elements including a first concentrator element and
common plant life on the Earth achieves life using photosyn a second concentrator element, the first concentrator element
thesis processes from Sun light. Fossil fuels such as oil were and the second concentrator element being separated by a
also developed from biological materials derived from energy notch, the first concentrator being associated with a first angle
associated with the Sun. For human beings including 'Sun and a second angle, the first concentrator being configured to
worshipers, sunlight has been essential. For life on the planet transmit electromagnetic waves received at the first angle to
Earth, the Sun has been our most important energy source and the first photovoltaic strip, the first concentrator being con
fuel for modern day Solar energy. figured to transmit electromagnetic waves received at the
0005 Solar energy possesses many characteristics that are second angle to the second photovoltaic strip, the second
very desirable Solar energy is renewable, clean, abundant, concentrator being configured to transmit electromagnetic
and often widespread. Certain technologies have been devel waves received at the first angle to the second photovoltaic
oped to capture Solar energy, concentrate it, store it, and strip. The system also includes a sensor for determining a
convert it into other useful forms of energy. position for a light source. The system further includes a
0006 Solar panels have been developed to convert Sun motion control module for selecting a third angle for receiv
light into energy. As an example, Solar thermal panels often ing electromagnetic waves from the light source, the third
convert electromagnetic radiation from the Sun into thermal angle being selected between the first angle and the second
energy for heating homes, running certain industrial pro angle. Also, the system includes a motor module configured
cesses, or driving high grade turbines to generate electricity. for rotating the Solar panel for facing the light source at the
As another example, Solar photovoltaic panels convert Sun third angle.
light directly into electricity for a variety of applications. 0011. According to another embodiment, the present
Solar panels are generally composed of an array of solarcells, invention provides a system for collecting Solar energy. The
which are interconnected to each other. The cells are often system includes a Solar array comprising a first Solar panel
arranged in series and/or parallel groups of cells in series. and a second Solar panel, the first Solar panel being at a
Accordingly, Solar panels have great potential to benefit our predetermined distance from the second Solar panel. The
nation, security, and human users. They can even diversify system also includes a Solar panel, the Solar panel comprising
US 2011/0168232 A1 Jul. 14, 2011

a plurality of photovoltaic strips, the plurality of photovoltaic 0024 FIG. 7 is a simplified diagram illustrating a result for
strips including a first strip and a second strip, the first strip concentrated Solar modules according to an embodiment of
and the second strip being Substantially parallel to each other, the present invention.
the plurality of photovoltaic strips being electrically coupled 0025 FIGS. 8A and 8B are simplified diagrams showing
to one another, the Solar panel including a front cover mem simulation of the light path of a concentrated Solar module
ber, the front cover member including a plurality of concen according an embodiment of the present invention. These
trator elements, the plurality of photovoltaic strips being diagrams are merely examples, which should not unduly limit
aligned to the plurality of concentrator elements, the plurality the scope of the claims.
of concentrator elements including a first concentrator ele (0026 FIGS. 9A and 9B are simplified diagrams illustrat
ment and a second concentrator element, the first concentra ing various Solar array angles according embodiments of the
tor element and the second concentrator element being sepa present invention.
rated by a notch, the first concentrator element being 0027 FIG. 10 is a simplified diagram illustrating a rela
associated with a first angle and a second angle, the first tionship between tracking and time according to an embodi
concentrator being configured to transmit electromagnetic ment of the present invention.
waves received at the first angle to the first photovoltaic strip,
the first concentrator being configured to transmit electro DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
magnetic waves received at the second angle to the second 0028. The present application relates generally to a track
photovoltaic strip, the second concentrator being configured ing system for Solar panels. More specifically, embodiments
to transmit electromagnetic waves received at the first angle of the present invention provide tracking systems that are
to the second photovoltaic strip. The system additional Suitable for Solar panels that include concentrator elements.
includes a motion control module for determining a position In a specific embodiment, a tracking system according to the
for a light source and selecting a third angle for receiving present invention selects from two or more angles for Solar
electromagnetic waves from the light source, the third angle panels facing the Sun, where at a first angle a solar region
being selected between the first angle and the second angle. receives light from one concentrator element, and at a second
The system also includes a first motor module configured for angle the Solar region receives light from a different concen
rotating the first Solar panel for facing the light source at the trator element. In various embodiments, Solar panels rotate to
third angle. angles that minimize shadowing. There are other embodi
0012 Various additional objects, features and advantages ments as well.
of the present invention can be more fully appreciated with 0029. As discussed above, conventional tracking systems
reference to the detailed description and accompanying draw for solar panels are available but are often inadequate. More
ings that follow. specifically, where tight juxtaposition of Solar panels are
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
required (e.g., Solar panel arrays), conventional tracking sys
tems are often incapable of efficiently utilizing both space and
0013 FIG. 1A is a simplified diagram illustrating the Solar energy. For example, conventional tracking mecha
operation of a conventional Solar tracking system. nisms involve simply following the movement of the Sun.
0014 FIG. 1B is a simplified diagram illustrating a con There are four basic types of tracking mechanisms: (1) sea
ventional Solar tracking system operating around the noon Sonal (e.g., moving once a quarter); (2) single axis horizontal;
time. (3) single axis tilted; (4) dual axis tracking; (5) polar axis
0015 FIG. 1C is a simplified diagram illustrating a con tracking; and others. When land is free and plentiful, trackers
ventional back tracking system. are spaced such that they can never shadow each other. When
0016 FIG. 2A is a simplified diagram illustrating a solar land is costly or limited, then systems are installed such that
panel according to an embodiment of the present invention. in the morning and evening it is possible for one tracker to
0017 FIG. 2B is a simplified diagram illustrating a solar shadow the one behind it. To avoid shadowing, trackers typi
concentrator element as a part of a solar panel according to an cally stop following the Sun and instead move to positions that
embodiment of the present invention. are as close as possible to the Sun without causing any shad
0018 FIG. 2C is a simplified diagram providing an ing. This is referred to as back-tracking. Unfortunately, Small
exploded view of a concentrated Solar panel according to an amounts of shading are enough to stop most of the energy
generation.
embodiment of the present invention. 0030 FIG. 1A is a simplified diagram illustrating the
0019 FIG. 3 is a simplified diagram illustrating a solar operation of a conventional Solar tacking system. As shown in
concentrator according to an embodiment of the present FIG. 1A, a solar array 100 comprises solar panel systems 101,
invention.
102 and 103. Each of the solar systems comprises a solar
0020 FIG. 4A is a simplified diagram illustrating a solar module and a tracker post. For example, the Solar panel sys
concentrator according to an embodiment of the present tem 101 comprises a solar module 101b for receiving and
invention. converting Solar energy. The tracking post 101a is apart of the
0021 FIG. 4B is a simplified diagram illustrating the solar panel system 101 that supports the solar module 101b
operation of a Solar panel with Solar concentrator according to and is configured to track the Sun so that the Solar module
an embodiment of the present invention. 101b is continuously facing the Sun at an angle optimized for
0022 FIGS. 5A and 5B are simplified diagrams illustrat energy capture and conversion (e.g., the Sunlight reaching the
ing the light path of a concentrated Solar module according to surface of the solar module 101b at an angle of about 90
an embodiment of the present invention. degrees). As shown in FIG. 1A, the solar module 101b is
0023 FIG. 6 is a simple diagram illustrating the light path rotated to an angle by the tracking post 101 a so that the
for a concentrated Solar panel according to an embodiment of Surface of the Solar module 101b is facing the Sun at an angle
the present invention. of approximate 90 degrees. For example, the solar modules
US 2011/0168232 A1 Jul. 14, 2011

are rotated to the angle illustrated in FIG. 1A when the sun is parallel to each other. The photovoltaic strips are electrically
low in the sky (e.g., morning and/or evening). coupled to one another. For example, electrically conductive
0031 Shading is one of the problems associated with the buses (not shown in FIG. 2A) are used to electrically couple
conventional Solar tracking system illustrated in FIG. 1A. As photovoltaic strips. The solar panel includes a front cover
shown, while the full surface area of solar module 101b is member 210.
optimized for collecting and converting light from the Sun, the 0039. The front cover member includes a plurality of con
position and angle of Solar module 101 a creates shade that centrator elements. The plurality of photovoltaic strips is
blocks an area of solar module 102b, which is positioned, aligned to the plurality of concentrator elements 211-214.
relative to the morning sun, behind solar module 101a. Simi The plurality of concentrator elements includes a first con
larly, solar module 102b blocks an area of solar module 103b. centrator element 211 and a second concentrator element 212.
The blocked areas of the Solar modules receive less light (e.g., The first concentrator element 211 and the second concentra
receiving diffused and/or reflected light) than solar module tor element 212 are separated by a notch 220. The first con
areas receiving direct Sunlight. As a result of shading, energy centrator element 211 is associated with a first angle and a
capture and conversion becomes inefficient for the Solar array second angle. The first concentrator element 211 is config
100, despite the presence of the conventional tracking system. ured to transmit electromagnetic waves received at the first
0032. The shading problem, described above for the con angle to the first photovoltaic strip 201.
ventional Solar tracking system illustrated in FIG. 1A, typi 0040. For example, the first concentrator element 211 is
cally results in low energy conversion rate. For example, configured to transmit light to the photovoltaic strip 201 at a
compared to Solar array Systems where no tracking mecha Substantially perpendicular angle. The first concentrator ele
nism is provided, the tracking system 100 still provides better ment 211 is configured to transmit electromagnetic waves
energy conversion over period of time. The shading among received at the second angle to the second photovoltaic strip
the solar modules as illustrated in FIG. 1A is usually limited 202. The second concentrator element 212 is configured to
to tracking angles in the morning and evening. transmit electromagnetic waves received at the first angle to
0033 FIG. 1B is a simplified diagram illustrating a con the second photovoltaic strip 202.
ventional Solar tracking system operating around the noon 0041 FIG. 2B is a simplified diagram illustrating a solar
time. As shown, the Sun around noon time is perpendicular to concentrator element as a part of a Solar panel according to an
the Surfaces of the Solar modules and, as result, no shadowing embodiment of the present invention. This diagram is merely
occurs among the Solar modules. an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the
0034. In a conventional arrangement, a shading problem is claims. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many
avoided by restricting the amount of movement of the track variations, alternatives, and modifications. As shown in FIG.
ing systems at certain times of the day. FIG.1C is a simplified 2B, a photovoltaic device is held by an encapsulating material
diagram illustrating a conventional back tracking system. As (e.g., EVA or others) and aligned with the concentrator ele
shown in FIG. 1C, as the Sun is rising or setting, the tracking ment. For example, the concentrator element is made of glass.
system avoids shadowing among the Solar modules by 0042 FIG. 2C is a simplified diagram providing an
restricting the Solar module movements. exploded view of a concentrated Solar panel according to an
0035. For example, when the sun is rising or setting, track embodiment of the present invention. This diagram is merely
ing post 121a positions the solar module 121batanangle 120. an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the
At the angle 120, the solar module 121b is not facing the sun claims. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many
directly and does not create a shadow caste over Solar module variations, alternatives, and modifications. As shown in FIG.
122b. For example, the tracking mechanism of the conven 2C, a concentrated solar panel 250 includes a concentrator
tional system goes toward a horizontal position until it is able 251, a photovoltaic assembly 252, and a back cover member
to track without shading. Alternatively, the conventional sys 253. For example, the components of the concentrated solar
tempositions the Solar module as close to the Sun as possible panel 250 are coupled together by encapsulating material.
without causing shading. 0043 FIG. 3 is a simplified diagram illustrating a solar
0036. It is therefore to be appreciated that the present concentrator according to an embodiment of the present
invention provides Solar tracking techniques that allow for invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should
efficient energy capture using Solar panels with concentrator not unduly limit the scope of the claims. One of ordinary skill
elements, which are described below. in the art would recognize many variations, alternatives, and
0037. The tracking techniques according to the embodi modifications. As an example, dimensions of the Solar con
ments of the present invention are used in conjunction with centrator (in mm) are provided. For example, each concen
Solar panels with Solar concentrator elements. This type of trator has a width of 5.778 mm with a tolerance of 0.025 mm.
Solar panel with Solar concentrator elements is described in It is to be appreciated that other dimensions and geometrical
patent application Ser. No. (Attorney Docket No. shapes may be used as well. As an example, the numerical
025902-005710US), which is incorporated by reference dimensions shown are in millimeters for the concentrator
herein for all purposes. element. Depending on the application, the Solar concentrator
0038 FIG. 2A is a simplified diagram illustrating a solar as shown may be scaled up or down. For example, a Solar
panel according to an embodiment of the present invention. concentrator may be characterized by a Surface area of over 1
This diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly m, and a number of concentrator elements with dimensions
limit the scope of the claims. One of ordinary skill in the art shown in FIG. 1B occupy essentially the entire area of the
would recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifica Solar concentrator.
tions. As shown in FIG. 2A, a solar panel 200 comprises a 0044 FIG. 4A is a simplified diagram illustrating a solar
plurality of photovoltaic strips 201-204. The plurality of pho concentrator according to an embodiment of the present
tovoltaic strips includes a first strip 201 and a second strip invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should
202, the first strip and the second strip being substantially not unduly limit the scope of the claims. One of ordinary skill
US 2011/0168232 A1 Jul. 14, 2011

in the art would recognize many variations, alternatives, and reflection). Thus, Solar tracking mechanisms as provided by
modifications. As shown in FIG. 4A, light incident to a con the embodiments of the present invention are used to improve
centrator element occurring at a steep angle is directed to two Solar panel efficiency.
different locations, both of which can be collected by a pho 0051 FIGS.5A and 5B are simplified diagrams illustrat
tovoltaic region underneath. It is to be appreciated that with ing the light path of a concentrated Solar module according to
off angle light occurring at Steep angles across the length of an embodiment of the present invention. These diagrams are
the optics of the concentrator module, more light enters a merely examples, which should not unduly limit the scope of
Solar module when compared with a conventional Solar mod the claims. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize
ule at the same angle. many variations, alternatives, and modifications.
0045. The steep angles of incidence with flat glass allow 0052. As shown in FIG. 5A, a solar module 500 includes
for large Fresnel reflections. The curved shape of the concen concentrator elements 501 and 502. The concentrator ele
trator means that there are always Surface areas that are Sub ments 501a and 502a are aligned, respectively, directly above
stantially normal to the light. Additionally, the concentrator photovoltaic regions 501b and 502b. For example, light
structure as shown allows the reflected light an opportunity to reaching the concentrator element 501a is concentrated onto
re-enter the solar module and to be collected by the photo the photovoltaic strip 501b, which in turn converts the light to
Voltaic region underneath. energy. Similarly, the concentrator element 502b directs the
0046 FIG. 4B is a simplified diagram illustrating the light it receives to the photovoltaic strip 502b underneath.
operation of a Solar panel with Solar concentrator according to Typically, when the concentrator elements receive light at a
an embodiment of the present invention. This diagram is normal angle (e.g., light entering at a right angle) or when the
merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope angle of light is relatively close to the normal angle, most of
of the claims. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize the light received by the concentrator elements is directed to
many variations, alternatives, and modifications. the photovoltaic strips. As illustrated in FIG. 5A, when light
0047. As shown in FIG. 4B, a solar concentrator 405 com enters at a slightangle (off the direct perpendicular angle), the
prises solar concentrator elements 403 and 404. The concen light still reaches the photovoltaic strips 501b and 502b
trator elements 403 and 404 are characterized by a curved below.
shape, with a flat region at the top. It is to be appreciated that 0053. It is to be appreciated that the concentrated solar
the geometric shape of the concentrator elements is optimized devices according to embodiments of the present invention
for light gathering. Photovoltaic strips 401 and 402 are are able to efficiently capture Solar energy at different angles.
respectively aligned to the solar concentrators 403 and 404 as More specifically, a concentrator element is able to direct
shown in FIG. 4B. For example, the photovoltaic strips are light to a first photovoltaic region at a right angle and direct
part of the electrically connected photovoltaic package. A light to a second photovoltaic region at a steep angle. In FIG.
reflective back sheet 407 is provided as shown. In various 5B, light reaches the concentrator element 501a at a steep
embodiments, the photovoltaic strips 401 and 402 are secured angle, and the concentrator element 501 a directs light to the
between the back sheet 407 and the solar concentrator 405 photovoltaic strip 502b. In the same way, the photovoltaic
using coupling material 406. For example, the coupling mate strip 501b receives light not from the concentrator element
rial comprises EVA material. 501 a that is directly aligned above it, but from an adjacent
0048. The shape of the concentrators and their alignment concentrator element. The concentrator element 502a, when
with the photovoltaic strips is optimized to allow the photo receiving light at a steep angle, directs light not to the photo
Voltaic strips to capture as much photovoltaic energy as pos voltaic strip 502b, but to a different photovoltaic strip.
sible. As shown in FIG. 4B, a photon that does not initially 0054 The ability to capture solar energy at different
make its way to a photovoltaic strip is reflected by back sheet angles, one being a normal angle and the other steep angle, is
407 to solar concentrator 403, and solar concentrator 403 used in various embodiments of the present invention, where
reflects the photon to photovoltaic strip 402, which can cap tracking mechanisms align Solar panels to face the Sun at
ture the photon and generate energy. multiple angles where most of the light received by the solar
0049. It is to be appreciated that in various embodiments, concentrators are directed to photovoltaic regions. On the
solar concentrator 405 and back sheet 407 together allows for other hand, at Some other angles, Solar panels with concen
greater total internal reflection, thereby increasing the trators according to embodiments of the present invention
chances of the photon being captured by the photovoltaic cannot efficiently capture light energy.
strips. For example, stray light that misses the photovoltaic 0055 FIG. 6 is a simple diagram illustrating the light path
device is reflected from the back sheet. Much of the reflected for a concentrated Solar panel according to an embodiment of
back sheet light is then reflected (e.g., total internal reflection) the present invention. This diagram is merely an example,
within the module. Light will reflect around within the mod which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. One of
ule until it either hits the photovoltaic strip and is converted to ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations,
electricity, exits the module, or is absorbed in the glass, EVA, alternatives, and modifications. As shown in FIG. 6, a large
or back sheet. portion of light that reaches the concentrator elements is
0050. It is to be appreciated that various embodiments of directed to a region between photovoltaic regions, thereby
the present invention allow for optimized absorption of light missing the targeted area. As described above, in various
and thereby better conversion. The internal reflection embodiments light capturing is possible through internal
afforded by the device illustrated in FIG. 4B provides for one reflection, light not being directed to the photovoltaic region
aspect of light capturing. However, while internal reflection often poses a problem.
redirects photons that did not reach a photovoltaic region in 0056 FIG. 7 is a simplified diagram illustrating a result for
the first pass through, the light captured by the photovoltaic concentrated Solar modules according to an embodiment of
strip 402 is typically not as efficient as direct light captured the present invention. This diagram is merely an example,
(i.e., capturing photons in their first pass before any internal which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. One of
US 2011/0168232 A1 Jul. 14, 2011

ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations, 0062 FIG. 10 is a simplified diagram illustrating a rela
alternatives, and modifications. In FIG. 7, the graph shows tionship between tracking and time according to an embodi
how solar module performance falls faster than a normal ment of the present invention. This diagram is merely an
module when tracking stops. For example, simulations show example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the
that the light will start to miss the photovoltaic device. As the claims. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many
angle increases more and more light misses the photovoltaic variations, alternatives, and modifications.
device and the performance continues to drop. In contrast, 0063. To illustrate shadowing and backtracking, a generic
conventional back tracking and or horizontal positions will scenario is used for a single axis horizontal tracker located at
result in lower energy yields than a standard module. As 37 degrees north, 121 degrees west on March 21. The tracker
shown, the curve 701 illustrates the output level of a tracking can move +/-45 degrees and the ground coverage ratio is
Solar panel according an embodiment of the present inven
tion. As a comparison, the curve 702 illustrates output level of 50%. In this case the tracker stops at the limits (say +45
conventional Solar tracking module. degrees in the afternoon) and will stay there for about an hour
0057 FIGS. 8A and 8B are simplified diagrams showing until shadowing starts. At that time the tracker has to start
simulation of the light path of a concentrated Solar module tracking in the other direction. Thus the name backtracking.
according an embodiment of the present invention. These This is shown as traditional backing tracking with
GCR=50%.
diagrams are merely examples, which should not unduly limit
the scope of the claims. One of ordinary skill in the art would 0064. For tracking with concentrated solar modules
recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications. according to embodiments of the present invention, with the
As shown in FIG. 8A, light reaching the Solar panel at a angle of incidence effects on our module, the tracking profile
Substantially normal angle is redirected to the photovoltaic is designed to capitalize the ability of concentrated Solar
regions. FIG. 8B illustrates that light reaching the solar panel modules of capturing Solar energy at more than one angle. For
at a steep angle is redirected to the photovoltaic regions that example, a tracking with "pre’ and “post settings are used:
are not directly aligned with concentrator elements. “pre’ is in the morning, and “post” is in the afternoon. In this
0058 According to various embodiments, the concentra case, once we approach the area with the greatest losses
tor directs the light to the photovoltaic devices that are aligned (Point A) we will move the tracker until we get to the second
directly under the lens. The tracker ensures that the module is ary acceptance angle. At this point the light will skip over one
aligned to the Sun. Unique to the concentrated Solar modules photovoltaic strip. Once we are at this point, we can continue
according to the embodiments of the present invention, there to forward track until shadowing becomes an issue again.
is another angle at which light can enter the module and land 0065. As an example, the plot shown in FIG. 10 is gener
on a photovoltaic device adjacent to the lens where the light ated using simulated data of Table 1, which is reproduced
entered. A specific tracking profile is used to track the Sun below:
when there is no shadowing like a normal tracker. In one
embodiment, when shadow occurs in the morning and TABLE 1
evening, the concentrated Solar modules would be positioned Latitude 37
at an angle between 45 and 70 degrees to the sun. The mod Longitude 121
ules would maintain the angle to the Sun for as long as the Negative Angles East Facing
modules remain shadow free or the sun is beyond the horizon. Positive Angles West Facing
Array Tilt
0059. According to various embodiments, various param
eters are used in establishing a tracking profile. For example, Solaria
these parameters include latitude, time of year, tracking lim Unconstrained
Traditional Back
Tracking
CMT230 Pre
and Post Tracking
its, ground coverage ratio, etc. Ground coverage ratio (GCR) Time No Shadowing (GCR = 50%) (GCR = 50%)
refers to the area occupied by the Solar module at noon (i.e.,
when horizontal relative to the ground) relative to the amount 3.21 2009 6:30 -86.24 -3 O
of land coverage of the system. Many systems today are 3.21
3.21
2009 7:00
2009 7:30
-80.17
-73.98
-10
-17
-10
-13
between 25% to 50% coverage with trackers that can move 3.21 2009 8:00 -67.57 -27 -7
+/-45 degrees. As the ground coverage ratio increases, the 3.21 2009 8:30 -60.98 -45 O
effects of shadowing become more noticeable and thus the 3.21 2009 9:00 -53.83 -45 -45
advantages of tracking go away. 3.21 2009 9:30 -46.37 -45 -45
3.21 2009 10:00 -38.43 -38.43 -38.43
0060 FIGS. 9A and 9B are simplified diagrams illustrat 3.21 2009 10:30 -30.01 -3O.O1 -3O.O1
ing various Solar array angles according embodiments of the 3.21 2009 11:00 -21.14 -21.14 -21.14
present invention. More specifically, for example, in an ideal 3.21 2009 11:30 -11.91 -11.91 -11.91
3.21 2009 12:00 -2.44 -2.44 -2.44
case, the ground coverage ratio is very close to Zero. This way 3.21 2009 12:30 7.06 7.06 7.06
shadowing is almost a non-issue. For example, the tracker can 3.21 2009 13:00 16.43 16.43 16.43
move +/-90 degrees. As shown in FIG.9A, the solar module 3.21 2009 13:30 25.5 25.5 25.5
will behave just like a regular module when the movement is 3.21
3.21
2009 14:00
2009 14:30
34.14
42.32
34.14
42.32
34.14
42.32
not constrained. Unfortunately land is not free so almost 3.21 2009 15:00 SO.O1 45 45
nobody installs systems with a GCR near zero. For example, 3.21 2009 15:30 57.26 45 O
the GCR of Zero is illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B. 3.21 2009 16:00 64.11 35 4
0061. When the ground coverage ratio increases, shadow 3.21 2009 16:30 70.64 19 11
3.21 2009 17:00 76.92 14 14
ing becomes a problem with trackers. Trackers usually back 3.21 2009 17:30 83.03 7 7
track to avoid shadowing. As they backtrack, they will incur 3.21 2009 18:00 89.04 1 O
losses due to the cosine error. The cosine losses are usually
much less than the losses from shadowing.
US 2011/0168232 A1 Jul. 14, 2011

0066. It is to be appreciated that one unique aspect of the 0072. In a specific embodiment, the motion control mod
tracking mechanism according to the present invention is the ule selects the third angle based on a time of the day.
backtracking profile. Conventional backtracking is Smooth 0073. In a specific embodiment, the solar panel is a part of
and continuous. Once a normal system stops tracking the Sun, Solar panel array.
it will begin to track in the other direction. In contrast, accord 0074. In a specific embodiment, the plurality of concen
ing to the present invention, the tracking mechanism abruptly trator elements are integrally formed on the front cover mem
moves the modules to a new position and then starts to for ber.
ward track (with an offset) until shadowing is an issue again. 0075. In a specific embodiment, the sensor comprises a
For example, the tracking mechanisms of the present inven light detector having a field of view of at least 90 degrees.
tion roll off of our AOI curve again. Depending on the specific
application, the offset varies by the thickness of the glass and 0076. In a specific embodiment, the system comprising a
the size of the photovoltaic strips. In an example, approxi base, the base being stationary.
mately 60 degrees is used the offset. It is to be understood that 0077. In a specific embodiment, the front is substantially
other angles may be used as well, as there are an infinite transparent and characterized by a refractive index of at least
number of possible variations of tracking profiles. While the 1.4.
profiles are not identical, any shadowing often has some 0078. In a specific embodiment, the plurality of photovol
backtracking. This is true for tilted one axis, azimuth, and taic strips are electrical coupled to one another by an electri
dual axis to name a few but not all combinations of tracking. cally conductive member.
To get the maximum amount of energy out of the system, 0079. In a specific embodiment, the plurality of photovol
unique tracking profiles are provided by embodiments of the taic strips are coupled to the front cover member by EVA
present invention. material, and/or other types of material.
0067. According to an embodiment, the present invention 0080. In a specific embodiment, the motion control mod
provides a system for collecting Solar energy. The system ule selects the third angle based at least on a season of the
includes a Solar panel, the Solar panel comprising a plurality year.
of photovoltaic strips, the plurality of photovoltaic strips I0081. In a specific embodiment, the solar panel faces the
including a first strip and a second strip, the first strip and the Sun at the first angle in the morning and faces the Sun at the
second strip being Substantially parallel to each other, the second angle around noon.
plurality of photovoltaic strips being electrically coupled to
one another, the solar panel including a front cover member, I0082. According to another embodiment, the present
the front cover member including a plurality of concentrator invention provides system for collecting Solar energy. The
elements, the plurality of photovoltaic strips being aligned to system includes a Solar array comprising a first Solar panel
the plurality of concentrator elements, the plurality of con and a second Solar panel, the first Solar panel being at a
centrator elements including a first concentrator element and predetermined distance from the second Solar panel. The
a second concentrator element, the first concentrator element system includes a Solar panel, the Solar panel comprising a
and the second concentrator element being separated by a plurality of photovoltaic strips, the plurality of photovoltaic
notch, the first concentrator being associated with a first angle strips including a first strip and a second strip, the first strip
and a second angle, the first concentrator being configured to and the second strip being Substantially parallel to each other,
transmit electromagnetic waves received at the first angle to the plurality of photovoltaic strips being electrically coupled
the first photovoltaic strip, the first concentrator being con to one another, the Solar panel including a front cover mem
figured to transmit electromagnetic waves received at the ber, the front cover member including a plurality of concen
second angle to the second photovoltaic strip, the second trator elements, the plurality of photovoltaic strips being
concentrator being configured to transmit electromagnetic aligned to the plurality of concentrator elements, the plurality
waves received at the first angle to the second photovoltaic of concentrator elements including a first concentrator ele
strip. The system also includes a sensor for determining a ment and a second concentrator element, the first concentra
position for a light source. For example, the sensor can be a tor element and the second concentrator element being sepa
light sensor, GPS sensor, astronomical tacking sensors, and rated by a notch, the first concentrator element being
others. The system additionally includes a motion control associated with a first angle and a second angle, the first
module for selecting a third angle for receiving electromag concentrator being configured to transmit electromagnetic
netic waves from the light source, the third angle being waves received at the first angle to the first photovoltaic strip,
selected between the first angle and the second angle. Also, the first concentrator being configured to transmit electro
the system includes a motor module configured for rotating magnetic waves received at the second angle to the second
the Solar panel for facing the light source at the third angle. photovoltaic strip, the second concentrator being configured
0068. In a specific embodiment, the plurality of concen to transmit electromagnetic waves received at the first angle
to the second photovoltaic strip. The system also includes a
trator elements are integral to the front cover member, the motion control module for determining a position for a light
front cover member consisting essentially of glass material, Source and selecting a third angle for receiving electromag
and/or other types of transparent material. netic waves from the light Source, the third angle being
0069. In a specific embodiment, the first concentrator selected between the first angle and the second angle. The
member comprises a Substantially spherical region, the system also includes a first motor module configured for
spherical region including a flat region. rotating the first Solar panel for facing the light source at the
0070. In a specific embodiment, the first angle is approxi third angle.
mately 90 degrees and the second angle is between 40 and 75 I0083. In a specific embodiment, the first angle is associ
degrees. ated with a first efficiency level and the second angle is
0071. In a specific embodiment, the light source is the sun. associated with a second efficiency level.
US 2011/0168232 A1 Jul. 14, 2011

0084. In a specific embodiment, the motion control mod a motion control module for selecting a third angle for
ule selects the first angle if selecting the second angle causes receiving electromagnetic waves from the light source,
the first Solar panel to cast a predetermined amount of shadow the third angle being selected between the first angle and
on the second solar panel. the second angle;
0085. In a specific embodiment, the system comprises a a motor module configured for rotating the Solar panel for
second motor module for rotating the second Solar panel for facing the light source at the third angle.
facing the light source at the third angle. 2. The system of claim 1 wherein the plurality of concen
I0086. In a specific embodiment, system includes a mount trator elements are integral to the front cover member, the
ing assembly for mounting the first Solar panel and the second front cover member consisting essentially of glass material,
Solar panel at the predetermined distance, the mounting and/or other types of transparent material.
assembly being stationary. 3. The system of claim 1 wherein the first concentrator
0087. In a specific embodiment, the motion control mod member comprises a Substantially spherical region, the
ule determines a Solar azimuth. spherical region including a flat region.
0088. In a specific embodiment, the system includes a 4. The system of claim 1 wherein the first angle is approxi
light sensor for detecting Solar position. mately 90 degrees and the second angle is between 40 and 75
0089. In a specific embodiment, the motion control mod degrees.
ule determines Solar azimuth based on pre-stored data and 5. The system of claim 1 wherein the light source is the sun.
detected Solar position. 6. The system of claim 1 wherein the motion control mod
0090. In a specific embodiment, the system includes a ule selects the third angle based on a time of the day.
network interface allowing for remote control. 7. The system of claim 1 wherein the solar panel is a part of
Solar panel array.
0091. In a specific embodiment, the system includes a 8. The system of claim 1 where in the plurality of concen
battery for energy storage. trator elements are integrally formed on the front cover mem
0092. In a specific embodiment, the system includes a user ber.
interface for configuring the motion control module. 9. The system of claim 1 wherein the sensor comprises a
0093. In a specific embodiment, the system includes a light detector having a field of view of at least 90 degrees.
plurality of tracking posts for mounting the Solar panels. 10. The system of claim 1 further comprising a base, the
0094. In a specific embodiment, the photovoltaic strips base being stationary.
consist of silicon or thin-film material.
11. The system of claim 1 wherein the front is substantially
0095. In a specific embodiment, the plurality of solar pan transparent and characterized by a refractive index of at least
els are generally north-south oriented. 1.4.
0096. It is understood that the examples and embodiments 12. The system of claim 1 wherein the plurality of photo
described herein are for illustrative purposes only and that Voltaic strips are electrical coupled to one another by an
various modifications or changes in light thereofwill be Sug electrically conductive member.
gested to persons skilled in the art and are to be included 13. The system of claim 1 wherein the plurality of photo
within the spirit and purview of this application and scope of voltaic strips are coupled to the front cover member by EVA
the appended claims. material, and/or other types of material.
14. The system of claim 1 wherein the motion control
What is claimed is: module selects the third angle based at least on a season of the
1. A system for collecting Solar energy, the system com year.
prising: 15. The system of claim 1 wherein the solar panel faces the
a Solar panel, the Solar panel comprising a plurality of Sun at the first angle in the morning and faces the Sun at the
photovoltaic strips, the plurality of photovoltaic strips second angle around noon.
including a first strip and a second strip, the first strip and 16. A system for collecting Solar energy, the system com
the second strip being Substantially parallel to each prising:
other, the plurality of photovoltaic strips being electri a solar array comprising a first Solar panel and a second
cally coupled to one another, the Solar panel including a Solar panel, the first Solar panel being at a predetermined
front cover member, the front cover member including a distance from the second solar panel;
plurality of concentrator elements, the plurality of pho a solar panel, the Solar panel comprising a plurality of
tovoltaic strips being aligned to the plurality of concen photovoltaic strips, the plurality of photovoltaic strips
trator elements, the plurality of concentrator elements including a first strip and a second strip, the first strip and
including a first concentrator element and a second con the second strip being Substantially parallel to each
centrator element, the first concentrator element and the other, the plurality of photovoltaic strips being electri
second concentrator element being separated by a notch, cally coupled to one another, the Solar panel including a
the first concentrator being associated with a first angle front cover member, the front cover member including a
and a second angle, the first concentrator being config plurality of concentrator elements, the plurality of pho
ured to transmit electromagnetic waves received at the tovoltaic strips being aligned to the plurality of concen
first angle to the first photovoltaic strip, the first concen trator elements, the plurality of concentrator elements
trator being configured to transmit electromagnetic including a first concentrator element and a second con
waves received at the second angle to the second photo centrator element, the first concentrator element and the
Voltaic strip, the second concentrator being configured second concentrator element being separated by a notch,
to transmit electromagnetic waves received at the first the first concentrator element being associated with a
angle to the second photovoltaic strip; first angle and a second angle, the first concentrator
a sensor for determining a position for a light source; being configured to transmit electromagnetic waves
US 2011/0168232 A1 Jul. 14, 2011

received at the first angle to the first photovoltaic strip, 20. The system of claim 16 further comprising a mounting
the first concentrator being configured to transmit elec assembly for mounting the first Solar panel and the second
tromagnetic waves received at the second angle to the Solar panel at the predetermined distance, the mounting
second photovoltaic strip, the second concentrator being assembly being stationary.
configured to transmit electromagnetic waves received 21. The system of claim 16 wherein the motion control
module determines a Solar azimuth.
at the first angle to the second photovoltaic strip; 22. The system of claim 16 further comprising a light
a motion control module for determining a position for a sensor for detecting Solar position.
light Source and selecting a third angle for receiving 23. The system of claim 16 wherein the motion control
electromagnetic waves from the light source, the third module determines Solar azimuth based on pre-stored data
angle being selected between the first angle and the and detected Solar position.
Second angle; 24. The system of claim 16 further comprising a network
a first motor module configured for rotating the first Solar interface allowing for remote control.
panel for facing the light Source at the third angle. 25. The system of claim 16 further comprising a battery for
energy Storage.
17. The system of claim 16 wherein the first angle is asso 26. The system of claim 16 further comprising a user inter
ciated with a first efficiency level and the second angle is face for configuring the motion control module.
associated with a second efficiency level. 27. The system of claim 16 further comprising a plurality of
18. The system of claim 16 wherein the motion control tracking posts for mounting the Solar panels.
module selects the first angle if selecting the second angle 28. The system of claim 16 wherein the photovoltaic strips
causes the first Solar panel to cast a predetermined amount of consist of silicon or thin-film material.
shadow on the second Solar panel. 29. The system of claim 16 wherein the plurality of solar
19. The system of claim 16 further comprising a second panels are generally north-south oriented.
motor module for rotating the second Solar panel for facing
the light source at the third angle. c c c c c