scispace - formally typeset
Search or ask a question

Showing papers on "Photovoltaic system published in 1979"


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the Hottel-Whillier model for thermal analysis of flat plate collectors is extended to the analysis of combined photovoltaic/thermal collectors in a manner, such that, with simple modification of the conventional parameters of the original model, all of the existing relations and supporting information available in the literature still apply.

449 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The photovoltaic properties of Schottky barier solar cells, made by dispersing particles of the x form of mental-free phthalocyanine in a binder polymer and sandwiching between NESA (SnO2/Sb) and aluminum electrodes, have been studied as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: The photovoltaic properties of Schottky barier solar cells, made by dispersing particles of the x form of mental‐free phthalocyanine in a binder polymer and sandwiching between NESA (SnO2/Sb) and aluminum electrodes, have been studied. A power conversion efficiency of over 6% for transmitted light at low power densities (0.06 W/m2) has been obtained for monochromatic irradiation at 670 nm. At peak solar power density (1400 W/m2) the extrapolated power conversion efficiency (η) for transmitted 670 nm irradiation decreases to 0.01%. The decrease in η with intensity was attributed to a space charge limitation due to nonlinear resistance. The devices exhibit Voc’s as high as 1.1 V, but are still limited by a field dependent quantum efficiency. Analysis of the action spectra of these devices revealed the formation of a thin photoactive depletion region (∼400 A) at the semiconductor/metal interface. These devices are capable of capturing 30% of the solar spectrum within the photoactive region. The effect of pig...

166 citations


Book
01 Jan 1979
TL;DR: Spectrally selective surfaces and their impact on photothermal solar energy conversion are discussed in this article, as well as the impact of the Cu2S/CdS cell on solar cell characteristics.
Abstract: Spectrally selective surfaces and their impact on photothermal solar energy conversion.- Spectral selectivity of composite materials.- Solar photoelectrolysis with semiconductor electrodes.- Carrier lifetime in silicon and its impact on solar cell characteristics.- Problems of the Cu2S/CdS Cell.- Heterojunction phenomena and interfacial defects in photovoltaic converters.

133 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
R.M. Swanson1
01 Mar 1979
TL;DR: In this paper, a solar-electric system using concentrated mirrors focusing on a thermophotovoltaic (TPV) converter is proposed and discussed, where the concentrated sunlight heats a refractory radiator.
Abstract: A solar-electric system is proposed and discussed. This system uses concentrated mirrors focusing on a thermophotovoltaic (TPV) converter. Within the TPV converter the concentrated sunlight heats a refractory radiator. A silicon photovoltaic cell faces the radiator, receives incandescent radiation from it, and converts this radiation into electricity.

128 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the shadowing analysis of vertical and inclined poles and collectors (the shadow components, height and area) is used in an example of optimal deployment of collectors in a given area (which includes the tilt angle, collector size, spacing between collectors and the number of collector rows).

105 citations


01 Jan 1979
TL;DR: In this article, the thermal and electric performance of an air and a liquid type combined photovoltaic/thermal solar collector was evaluated, yielding close correlation with theoretical results.
Abstract: The thermal and electric performance of an air and a liquid type combined photovoltaic/thermal solar collector has been evaluated, yielding close correlation with theoretical results. Maximum thermal efficiencies of 42.5% and 40% for the liquid and air collectors without electric power production decreased to 40.4% and 32.9% when electrical power was produced. Maximum electrical efficiencies of 6.8% were measured.

104 citations


Patent
Wilbur W. Hawley1
12 Mar 1979
TL;DR: In this paper, the electrical conduits employed with the at least one photovoltaic cell module are disposed primarily under the battens of the roof, where they are used to charge the cells.
Abstract: In a batten-seam roof construction employing at least one photovoltaic cell module, the electrical conduits employed with the at least one photovoltaic cell module are disposed primarily under the battens of the roof.

101 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the direct coupling between photovoltaic solar panels and various d.c. motors (series shunt and separate excitation) is theoretically studied as a function of the load.

90 citations


Patent
29 Nov 1979
TL;DR: In this article, an apparatus for collecting solar energy with means of producing electricity by concentrating solar energy on sets of photovoltaic cells to be either positioned at high altitudes and which may be fitted to balloons or to structures floating on water.
Abstract: Disclosed is apparatus for collecting solar energy with means of producing electricity by concentrating solar energy on sets of photovoltaic cells to be either positioned at high altitudes and which may be fitted to balloons or to structures floating on water.

75 citations


Patent
Robert N Hall1
23 Apr 1979
TL;DR: In this article, a solar cell which has high efficiency and which can be fabricated at low cost is described, which includes a semiconductor wafer with a front radiation-receiving surface which is entirely open and free of current conducting grids.
Abstract: A solar cell which has high efficiency and which can be fabricated at low cost is described. The cell includes a semiconductor wafer with a front radiation-receiving surface which is entirely open and free of current conducting grids and also includes an array of interconnection paths which carry photocurrent from the front surface through the cell to metal electrodes on the rear surface of the cell.

69 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Indium selenide n-type substrates made from ordinary grade elements, are suitable to make heterojunctions with semitransparent platinum layers Those low-cost devices have photovoltaic efficiencies for solar energy conversion under 6%, at the present time They can be readily improved to reach external efficiencies in the 10% range as mentioned in this paper.

Patent
19 Nov 1979
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present a dynamic system for the utilization of solar energy which is most of the time in the ideal position in relation to the sun, consisting of at least one unit consisting of a solar collector and a stand carrying said collector.
Abstract: A dynamic system for the utilization of solar energy which is most of the time in the ideal position in relation to the sun. Said device comprises at least one unit consisting of a solar collector and a stand carrying said collector, means for rotating the solar collector around its horizontal axis and means for rotating the solar collector and/or the stand around the vertical axis; means for simultaneous or independent actuation of the rotation means, means for the tracking control of said actuation means; and means for the transfer of the energy obtained.

01 Jan 1979
TL;DR: A submitted manuscript is the author's version of the article upon submission and before peer-review as discussed by the authors, and the final published version features the final layout of the paper including the volume, issue and page numbers.
Abstract: • A submitted manuscript is the author's version of the article upon submission and before peer-review. There can be important differences between the submitted version and the official published version of record. People interested in the research are advised to contact the author for the final version of the publication, or visit the DOI to the publisher's website. • The final author version and the galley proof are versions of the publication after peer review. • The final published version features the final layout of the paper including the volume, issue and page numbers.

Book
01 Dec 1979

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a spray pyrolysis-based SnO2/n-Si photovoltaic cell with a thin insulating layer at the interface is presented.
Abstract: SnO2/n-Si solar cells fabricated by the spray pyrolysis technique display significant photovoltaic effects when exposed to sunlight. These solar cells have a thin insulating layer at the SnO2/n-Si interface. The presence of the thin insulating layer can increase the open-circuit voltage by increasing the diode quality factor and by reducing the dark saturation current. The performance of this heterojunction solar cell was an open-circuit voltage of 0.52 V, short-circuit current of 21.0 mA/cm2, fill factor of 0.53 and conversion efficiency of 7.2%. The relative photospectral response above fifty percent spreads in a range of 420 to 1020 nm and is wider than that of conventional Si p-n solar cells. One possibility for cost reduction lies in the method of junction fabrication, and the idea of a simply deposited SnO2/n-Si junction is very attractive.

Journal ArticleDOI
T.I. Chappell1
TL;DR: The V-Groove multijunction (VGMJ) solar cell as discussed by the authors is an array of many individual diode elements connected in series to produce a highvoltage low-current output.
Abstract: A new type of silicon photovoltaic converter has been developed called the V-Groove Multijunction (VGMJ) solar cell. The VGMJ solar cell consists of an array of many individual diode elements connected in series to produce a high-voltage low-current output. All the elements of the cell are formed simultaneously from a single silicon wafer by V-groove etching. The results of detailed computer simulations predict a conversion efficiency in excess of 24 percent for this cell when it is operated in sunlight concentrated 100 or more times. The advantages of this cell over other silicon cells include the capability for greater than 20-percent conversion efficiency with only modest bulk carrier lifetimes, a higher open-circuit voltage, a very low series resistance, a simple one-mask fabrication procedure, and excellent environmental protection provided by a glass front surface.

Patent
10 Aug 1979
TL;DR: In this paper, a monolithie multijunction solar cell is modified by fabricating an integrated circuit inverter on the back of the cell to produce a device capable of generating an alternating current output.
Abstract: A monolithie multijunction solar cell is modified by fabricating an integrated circuit inverter on the back of the cell to produce a device capable of generating an alternating current output. In another embodiment, integrated circuit power conditioning electronics is incorporated in a module containing a solar cell power supply.

Book
30 Jun 1979
TL;DR: In this paper, the effect of the micellar phase on photo-induced reactions is discussed. But, the authors focus on the effects of photo-induced reactions on the efficiency of photogalvanic conversion of solar energy.
Abstract: Petroleum Plantations- Solar Energy Conversion in Photosynthesis-Features Relevant to Artificial Systems for the Photochemical Conversion of Solar Energy- The Chlorophyll A Water-Splitting Light Reaction- The "Tandem Photoelectrolysis Plant" Concept: A Strategy for Fuel Production via Biomass Conversion Wastes- Light-Induced Electron Transfer Reactions in Solution, Organized Assemblies and at Interfaces: Scope and Potential Applications- Effect of the Micellar Phase on Photo-Induced Reactions- Photochemical Determinants of the Efficiency of Photogalvanic Conversion of Solar Energy- Reversible Excited-State Electron-Transfer Reactions of Transition Metal Complexes- Photogalvanovoltaic Cells and Photovoltaic Cells Using Glassy Carbon Electrodes- Growth and Characterization of Thin Film III-V Compound Semiconductor Material for Solar Cell Applications- Nitrogen Reducing Solar Cells- Photosensitization Mechanisms for Energy Storing Isomerizations- Novel Photocyclization Reactions of 1-Alkenyl-2-Pyridones- The Norbornadiene-Quadricyclene Energy Storage System- New AB5 Hydrides and their Application in Chemical Heat Pump Systems- The Role of the Solar Energy Research Institute

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors presented the results of a comprehensive theoretical analysis of tandem photovoltaic solar cells as a function of temperature and solar concentration ratio, where the I-V characteristics of the solar cells were assumed to be governed by the relation I = I 0 ( e qV/AkT − 1) with I 0 = K e −E G /BkT and A = B. The overall efficiencies of tandem cell stacks consisting of as many as 24 cells having energy gaps in the 07 to 36 eV range were calculated for temperatures of 200,

Journal ArticleDOI
01 Jan 1979
TL;DR: In this article, the transport properties of indium monoselenide have been measured in n-and p-type material and fabrication procedures for Schottky and p-n diodes are reported.
Abstract: The transport properties of indium monoselenide have been measured in n- and p-type material. Parameters for photoexcited carriers are given. Fabrication procedures for Schottky and p-n diodes are reported. Photovoltaic spectra are fitted with measured values of transport and optical parameters. InSe is shown to be a new material with attractive characteristics for solar energy conversion. Performance of InSe solar cells is discussed.

Patent
11 Apr 1979
TL;DR: In this paper, activated carbon or carbon black having relatively low boron (B) and phosphorus (P) contents was used to produce silicon having similarly low B and P contents and suitable for use in photovoltaic cells for converting solar energy directly to electrical energy.
Abstract: Silica is reduced in a direct arc reactor by activated carbon or carbon black having relatively low boron (B) and phosphorus (P) contents to produce silicon having similarly low B and P contents and suitable for use in photovoltaic cells for converting solar energy directly to electrical energy.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A series of basic investigations on the glow discharge produced amorphous silicon (GDa-Si) and its interface properties aimed for the low cost solar cells has been carried out.

Patent
12 Mar 1979
TL;DR: The spectral properties of the liquid are such that the liquid functions as a bandpass filter, transmitting solar energy to which the transducer is responsive and absorbing solar energy as discussed by the authors, which is converted to heat by the liquid.
Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for converting solar energy to more useful forms, i.e., thermal and electrical energy. Such apparatus includes a photoelectric transducer (e.g., an array of photovoltaic cells), means for concentrating solar energy on the transducer, and means for circulating a liquid between the transducer and the solar energy concentrator. The spectral properties of the liquid are such that the liquid functions as a bandpass filter, transmitting solar energy to which the transducer is responsive and absorbing solar energy to which the transducer is non-responsive. The transmitted solar energy is converted to electrical energy by the transducer, and the absorbed solar energy is converted to heat by the liquid. Preferably, the liquid is circulated through a container which, in the vicinity of the transducer, is constructed so as to provide optical gain to the system and to integrate incident solar energy for the purpose of eliminating "hot spots" which could overheat, and thereby damage, the transducer.

Patent
28 Sep 1979
TL;DR: In this paper, solar energy is utilized to convert water into steam for use in driving a turbine which, in turn, is used to generate electricity, at the same time air in a solar panel is utilized for driving another turbine which in turn generates electricity.
Abstract: Solar energy is utilized to convert water into steam for use in driving a turbine which, in turn, is used to generate electricity. At the same time air in a solar panel is utilized to drive another turbine which in turn generates electricity. The water recovered by condensation of the steam is permitted to drop from the elevation at which it is accumulated and that water is used to drive another turbine which in turn generates further electricity.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a front-contact grid pattern for a solar cell is proposed to minimize shadowing loss and excessive power loss due to voltage drop in the metalization itself, which is termed multi-level metalization, which allows much greater concentration to loss ratio for a cell of large area and permits good performance from cells of high front-layer sheet resistance.

Patent
19 Nov 1979
TL;DR: In this paper, a solar energy conversion panel is provided by means of which solar energy is recovered as converted electrical energy and also thermal energy, and a means for protecting the panel from wind damage is also disclosed.
Abstract: A solar energy conversion panel is provided by means of which solar energy is recovered as converted electrical energy and also thermal energy. An array of solar energy collectors direct solar energy received from the sun upon photovoltaic cells within the collectors. The photovoltaic cells convert a portion of this energy into electrical energy. The balance of the solar energy is recovered as thermal energy which is carried from the panel by a circulating fluid. Specific shapes and arrangements of energy collectors are disclosed by means of which the energy recovered may be maximized. A means for protecting the panel from wind damage is also disclosed.

Patent
24 Oct 1979
TL;DR: In this paper, a light-weight solar cell array for space vehicles powered by solar electric propulsion is proposed, which can be folded for stowage and thereafter extended into a planar configuration.
Abstract: A lightweight solar cell array for space vehicles powered by solar electric propulsion. The array incorporates a plurality of hinged solar cell units which can be folded for stowage and thereafter extended into a planar configuration. Light is directed onto the solar cell array by a flexible reflector assembly which is carried below the array. The reflector assembly preferably comprises sheets of flexible material stowed on rolls whereby the sheets can be pulled from the rolls into extended positions. The solar cell array and the reflector are carried between two frames, one of which can be moved away from the other to deploy the array and the reflector assembly.

01 Jun 1979
TL;DR: In this article, a simple linear grid pattern and an inverted square pattern collecting grid designs for a solar concentrator cell are considered, and the grid dimensions of each pattern are optimized for maximum power output from the cell.
Abstract: A simple linear grid pattern and an inverted square pattern collecting grid designs for a solar concentrator cell are considered. The grid dimensions of each pattern are optimized for maximum power output from the cell. The calculations show that the inverted square pattern is superior at all levels of concentration. Two methods of optimizing the square pattern are given, one of which allows the grid spacing to be a function of position across the cell face while the line thickness is kept constant. Detailed calculations are given for 100- and 300-sun concentrations.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the characterization of twenty-nine modules according to their nominal operating cell temperature (NOCT) and the effect on NOCT of changes in module design, various residential roof mounting configurations, and dirt accumulation was performed.
Abstract: The bulk of the testing was the characterization of twenty-nine modules according to their nominal operating cell temperature (NOCT) and the effect on NOCT of changes in module design, various residential roof mounting configurations, and dirt accumulation. Other tests, often performed parallel with the NOCT measurements, evaluated the improvement in electrical performance by cooling the modules with water and by channeling the waste heat into a phase change material (wax). Electrical degradation resulting from the natural marriage of photovoltaic and solar water heating modules was also demonstrated. Cost effectiveness of each of these techniques are evaluated in light of the LSA cost goal of $0.50 per watt.

Patent
28 Mar 1979
TL;DR: In this paper, a combined solar converter which has a photovoltaic cell for converting the energy of solar radiation of a particular range of wavelengths to electricity and has a thermal heat absorber spaced from the cell, is presented.
Abstract: A combined solar converter which has a photovoltaic cell for converting the energy of solar radiation of a particular range of wavelengths to electricity and which has a thermal heat absorber spaced from the cell which converts solar radiation of longer wavelengths passing from the cell to useful heat. A method of utilizing solar energy comprising the step of subjecting a photovoltaic cell to solar radiation to convert energy of a particular range of wavelengths to which the cell is sensitive to electricity and transferring long wave radiations passing from a cell to a heat absorber spaced from the cell where the energy of the long wave radiation is transferred to useful heat.