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Generating electric power from solar radiation

  • US 5,125,983 A
  • Filed: 04/22/1991
  • Issued: 06/30/1992
  • Est. Priority Date: 04/22/1991
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. An extensive photovoltaic array for generating electric power from solar radiation as in a power plant, comprisingan extensive unitary structural grid having substantial extent in both x and y directions and supported on a pedestal, said unitary structural grid being directly attached to said pedestal, said unitary structural grid being defined by a multiplicity of structural members connected to one another at angles and defining spaces therebetween, said structural grid having a depth sufficient to provide structural rigidity to said photovoltaic array,a large multiplicity of lens assemblies, each comprised of at least one lens, directly supported by structural members of said unitary structural grid, said lens assemblies closing the upper side of said unitary structural grid,all other sides of said unitary structural grid being closed by a plurality of enclosure plates directly supported by structural members of said unitary structural grid in a manner such that at least a portion of said unitary structural grid is enclosed within a space defined by said plates and said lens assemblies, anda plurality of solar cells located within said space in which at least a portion of said unitary structural grid is enclosed and positioned to receive solar radiation that passes through respective lenses of said lens assemblies,whereby said lens assemblies, said structural members of said structural grid, said solar cells, and said enclosure plates have an integrated relationship.

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