U.S. patent application number 11/438195 was filed with the patent office on 2006-09-21 for energy generating shelter system and method.
Invention is credited to Steven Durham.
Application Number | 20060207192 11/438195 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37008839 |
Filed Date | 2006-09-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060207192 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Durham; Steven |
September 21, 2006 |
Energy generating shelter system and method
Abstract
A shelter capable of producing electrical energy is provided.
The shelter includes a canopy which defines a sheltered area, a
photovoltaic device capable of producing an electrical current when
exposed to a light source (sunlight or artificial light), and a
supporting structure to support the canopy and permit unobstructed
access to the sheltered area. An electrical load is operatively
connected to the photovoltaic device for utilizing the electricity
generated by the photovoltaic device when the photovoltaic device
is exposed to light. The shelter is well-suited to protect vehicles
in large parking lots from the sun and other elements while
simultaneously providing an alternate energy source.
Inventors: |
Durham; Steven; (Ponte Vedra
Beach, FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
RYNDAK & SURI LLP
200 W. MADISON STREET
SUITE 2100
CHICAGO
IL
60606
US
|
Family ID: |
37008839 |
Appl. No.: |
11/438195 |
Filed: |
May 22, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10679075 |
Oct 3, 2003 |
|
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|
11438195 |
May 22, 2006 |
|
|
|
09902390 |
Jul 10, 2001 |
6631591 |
|
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10679075 |
Oct 3, 2003 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/73 ;
257/E27.123 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y02E 70/30 20130101;
H02S 40/38 20141201; H01L 31/12 20130101; F24S 25/10 20180501; E04H
6/025 20130101; H01L 27/3227 20130101; H02S 20/10 20141201; E04B
1/3416 20130101; Y02E 10/50 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/073 |
International
Class: |
E04B 1/34 20060101
E04B001/34; E04B 7/16 20060101 E04B007/16 |
Claims
1. A system for generating electricity from a parking lot
comprising: an outdoor parking area having at least one vehicle
parking space; a canopy having a width and a length defining a
sheltered area for said parking space and having a photovoltaic
device capable of producing an electrical current when exposed to a
light source, said photovoltaic device associated with said canopy
to produce electrical current from sunlight; a supporting structure
connected to and supporting said canopy and permitting
substantially unobstructed access to the sheltered area; and an
electrical load operatively connected to the photovoltaic device
for utilizing the electricity generated by the photovoltaic device
when the photovoltaic device is exposed to light.
2. A method of producing electricity comprising: providing a canopy
having a width and a length defining a sheltered area and having a
photovoltaic device capable of producing an electrical current when
exposed to a light source, said photovoltaic device associated with
said canopy to produce electrical current from sunlight; supporting
the canopy without walls above an outdoor vehicle parking area with
a supporting structure that permits substantially unobstructed
access to the parking area; exposing the photovoltaic device to
light to generate electricity; and connecting an electrical load to
the electricity.
3. The method of claim 2 wherein said electrical load is a power
meter and the method further comprises reverse metering the power
meter.
4. The method of claim 2 wherein said electrical load is a utility
company power distribution grid.
5. The method of claim 2 further comprising producing electricity
at night with a light emissive material operatively associated with
the photovoltaic device dispersed within or placed in the (PV)
roof's vicinity.
6. A panel for producing electricity comprising: a substantially
transparent panel body having a top surface and a bottom surface;
said substantially transparent panel body including at least one
transparent photovoltaic device associated with at least one of the
top surface and bottom surface; and an organic light emitting diode
associated with said at least one photovoltaic device, wherein said
organic light emitting diode is capable of displaying human
readable information.
7. The panel of claim 6 wherein the human readable information is
human readable video.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This is a division of prior application no. 10/679,075,
filed Oct. 3, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part of prior
application No. 09/902,390 filed Jul. 10, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No.
6,631,591, issued Oct. 14, 2003.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to a carport shelter, and more
particularly to a shelter having or composed of a photovoltaic
device capable of generating electricity from sunlight or other
sources of light.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A need exists for a shelter that protects vehicles from
natural environmental concerns while still providing an
unobstructed view of the vehicles.
[0004] A need also exists for a shelter that reduces the amount of
sun, UV rays, rain, hail, light snow and other elements that
possibly could make contact with vehicles, yet also remains
aesthetically pleasing, complements the surroundings, and allows
the car to be on display.
[0005] In addition, a need exists for a shelter suited for people
that do not desire to keep their vehicles in a garage or other
enclosed structure, but still want to keep them sheltered,
particularly without significantly obstructing the natural view of
the surrounding environment. A need further exists for a carport or
shelter that is capable of producing electricity when exposed to
sunlight or artificially generated light.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In accordance with the present invention, a shelter, which
may be a carport, is provided. The shelter can include either a
semi-flexible or tensioned/membrane roof, that can be in the shape
of a rigid, concave canopy, or any other desired shape that is
composed of a rigid self-supporting material. Consequently, the
canopy in one embodiment can be a frame-less structure, that is, a
frame to support the canopy is not required. The canopy can be of
any desired size or area and typically has a width and length
larger than the width and length of a standard size automobile. The
shelter typically further includes a suitable supporting structure
that rigidly connects to the canopy, so that the canopy is mounted
in a fixed position spaced above the ground a desired distance.
Preferably, the shelter structure in accordance with the invention
includes a longitudinally extending support member rigidly secured
to the canopy and to a laterally, generally horizontally extending
supporting structure that has an end or a portion that is laterally
spaced from the canopy. The end or portion of the laterally
extending supporting structure that is laterally spaced from the
canopy can be secured to another structure that provides the
desired elevation for the rigid canopy. Typically, that structure
will be a generally vertically extending post member mounted
directly or indirectly to the ground, or to other suitable
structure.
[0007] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a rigid,
concave canopy is provided that is composed of light transmissive
material which may be transparent or translucent. In another
embodiment, it is composed of transparent, colored or opaque
material, which may include a one-way mirrored material, on either
side and typically so that a person below the canopy can see upward
through the canopy, but a person above the canopy cannot see
downwardly through it. Thus, it is contemplated that in one
embodiment the canopy will provide for a substantially unobstructed
view of both the vehicle underneath it and the surrounding
environment.
[0008] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the
rigid canopy, when concave, has a radius of curvature in the range
of from about 5 to 30 feet or more. Such a radius of curvature will
provide for an adequate shelter for the vehicle, while also
providing enough of a curve for debris and rain runoff.
Alternatively, the canopy can be of any desired shape or
curvature.
[0009] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the
rigid canopy is composed of a plurality of rigid, self-supporting
concave panels attached or secured together in side-by-side
complementary relationship. While the canopy material is rigid, it
is to be understood that rigid materials inherently will flex to
some degree. In one embodiment, each concave panel is suitably
secured to another concave panel with, for example, a
correspondingly concave or flexible channel member, or other
suitable structure. In another embodiment, the transverse edge of
each concave panel is secured within a channel member. In another
embodiment, the edge of each concave panel is adhered within a
channel member.
[0010] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, one or
more peripheral edging strips are secured to the peripheral edge of
the rigid canopy, which rigid canopy may be composed of a plurality
of concave panels. In one embodiment, the edging is composed of
rigid acrylic material that can be transparent. In another
embodiment, the edging is composed of flexible material. The edging
provides additional protection of the panels, especially the panel
edge, from environmental hazards and shock.
[0011] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the
longitudinally extending support member is constructed in a desired
configuration and may include two pairs of I-beams, connected
together, on a single I-beam or a square beam or pair of square
beams with one pair or one beam rigidly attached to the supporting
structure and with one pair located on different longitudinal
portions of the canopy, which may be different longitudinal half
portions of the canopy.
[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the
longitudinally extending support member may further include arcuate
members laterally spaced along the canopy length that are formed to
allow attachment to the canopy at two transversely spaced areas
taking into account the canopy's radius of curvature, and have
straight vertically extending ends. It is contemplated that the
arcuate members are composed of a rigid structural material. In one
embodiment, the arcuate members are composed of stainless steel
tubing formed to provide the desired configuration such as in an
arch shape. The arcuate members are composed of any suitable
material including aluminum, steel and composite materials.
[0013] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, each
arcuate member further includes reinforcing arms that are suitably
attached, such as by welding, to inside the tubular arch and also
have straight ends. It is contemplated that the reinforcing arms
are composed of the same material as that of the arcuate
member.
[0014] Alternatively, in place of the arcuate members may be
utilized angular support members.
[0015] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the
longitudinally extending support member further includes flanges
that attach the ends of the arcuate members to the rigid, concave
canopy. The flanges provide for a secure attachment to the rigid
canopy and allow a relatively uniform distribution of forces on the
canopy. It is contemplated that the flanges attach to the canopy by
any suitable structure, such as, for example, with threaded
fasteners, which may be by bolts. It is alternatively contemplated
that the flanges attach with a suitable adhesive. The surface of
the flange that abuts the canopy may have a curvature to match the
canopy in the area of abutment.
[0016] In another aspect of the invention, curved or angled flanges
are located underneath the canopy in a location directly opposite
and complementary to the flanges. This embodiment will allow the
concave panels to be rigidly secured and held together.
[0017] Alternatively, bolts may be embedded in the canopy material,
which can eliminate the need for a bottom flange.
[0018] Numerous advantages may be realized by the present
invention. For example, the unobstructed view of the sheltered
vehicle can provide for a display and draw attention to the
sheltered vehicle. This factor will appeal to people who wish to
draw attention to their vehicles, possibly because of their rarity
or prestige. Alternatively, commercial dealers that display many
vehicles, for example, car or boat dealers, will be able to fully
put on view and display the vehicles, while simultaneously
protecting such vehicles from environmental elements.
[0019] In addition to providing for a full view of the protected
vehicle, the transparent canopy has the advantage of preserving the
view of the surrounding environment in which the shelter is placed.
This aspect will especially appeal to people that live in
aesthetically pleasing locales that include, for example,
mountains, water, trees, flowers, or even other buildings. With
this shelter, people will be able to protect their vehicles with
only a very minimal obstruction on the view of the corresponding
surrounding area.
[0020] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a
shelter capable of producing electrical energy is provided. The
shelter includes a canopy defining a sheltered area. The canopy may
be rigid or flexible and can be of any desired shape or material,
including cloth or a membrane material. A photovoltaic device
capable of producing an electrical current when exposed to a light
source is associated with the canopy to collect sunlight to produce
electricity. A supporting structure, which can be constructed
without walls, is connected to and supports the canopy and permits
substantially unobstructed access to the sheltered area. The energy
generating shelter may further include an electrical load
operatively connected to the photovoltaic device for utilizing the
electricity generated by the photovoltaic device when the
photovoltaic device is exposed to light. The canopy can be mounted
for movement to follow the light source such as the sun to maximize
electrical energy production.
[0021] The photovoltaic device may be any suitable photovoltaic
device or material known in the art for converting light energy
into electrical current. For example, such devices are typically
rigid crystalline photovoltaic systems or flexible thin film
amorphous photovoltaic systems and may be composed of numerous
photovoltaic cells or modules. The photovoltaic device is
associated with the canopy by any suitable arrangement. The
photovoltaic device may be supported by the canopy or the
photovoltaic device may be applied directly to the canopy surface.
Alternatively, the photovoltaic device may be integral to or
dispersed within the canopy. The photovoltaic device may even
constitute the canopy itself.
[0022] In one aspect of the invention a first photovoltaic device
may be associated with the top surface of the canopy and oriented
to receive sunlight. A second photovoltaic device may be associated
with the underside of the canopy and directed to the ground. An
electric or other type of light may be affixed to the underside of,
or located below, the canopy to illuminate the sheltered area
during periods of darkness. The first and/or second photovoltaic
device may generate electricity while the light is illuminated.
[0023] In another aspect of the invention, the photovoltaic device
includes a light emitting diode (LED) or other light emitting
device, which can be in the form of a layer. The LED is preferably
a thin film, flexible organic light emitting diode (OLED)
sandwiched or contained between an upper photovoltaic material and
a lower photovoltaic material. Transparent photovoltaic material is
preferably used allowing the thin film OLED layer to emit light
through the lower photovoltaic material to illuminate the sheltered
area at night or other periods of low light or darkness. The light
emitting layer may also be a phosphor layer or coating, associated
with the photovoltaic device so that the photovoltaic device
generates electricity from light produced by the LED or light
emitting layer, including at night.
[0024] The electrical load that may be connected to the
photovoltaic device may be any system or device that may utilize
the electricity generated by the photovoltaic device as is commonly
known in the art. For instance, the electrical load may include all
or part of the power demand of a building or structure adjacent the
energy-generating shelter. Alternatively, the electrical load may
be the power distribution grid of a nearby utility company whereby
the electricity produced by the shelter is distributed to other
power consumers located throughout the power grid. The electrical
load may also be a battery or other electrical energy storage
device as desired. The battery or storage device may be used to
power any of the previously described light sources for
illuminating any outdoor area, preferably the sheltered area.
[0025] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method of producing electricity is provided. The method includes
providing a canopy defining a sheltered area and having a
photovoltaic device associated with the canopy wherein the
photovoltaic device is capable of producing an electrical current
when exposed to a light source. The canopy can be supported without
walls above an outdoor vehicle parking area with a supporting
structure but without walls so that substantially unobstructed
access, including ingress and egress of the motor vehicles, to the
parking area is permitted. The method further includes exposing the
photovoltaic device to light in order to generate electricity and
connecting an electrical load to the electricity. The electrical
load may include a power meter allowing reverse metering of the
power meter with the electricity produced by the shelter.
[0026] The energy producing shelter is well-suited for large
parking lots and provides the multiple benefits of protecting
parked vehicles from sunlight as well as providing an alternate
power supply. Thus, a further advantage of the present invention is
to reduce the strain on a local power grid by supplying power to
adjacent buildings with the electricity generated by the shelter.
Alternatively, the shelter-generated power may be sent directly to
a utility company or corresponding power grid and distributed to
other users within the grid, particularly during peak power demand
periods. When used on a large scale, the shelter-generated
electricity may assist in preventing rolling brownouts or blackouts
in a local power grid.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a device in
accordance with the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 2 illustrates a top plan view of the device of FIG.
1;
[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates a front elevation view of the device of
FIG. 1 in an upright position;
[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates an enlarged perspective front elevation
view of a portion of the device of FIG. 1;
[0031] FIG. 5 illustrates a sectional front view of a portion of
the longitudinally extending support member of the device of FIG.
1;
[0032] FIG. 6 illustrates a side elevation view of a portion of the
device of FIG. 1;
[0033] FIG. 7 illustrates a sectional view along line 7-7 of FIG.
6;
[0034] FIG. 8 illustrates a sectional view along line 8-8 of FIG.
6; and
[0035] FIG. 9 illustrates a sectional view of an alternate
embodiment of attaching structure useful in accordance with the
invention;
[0036] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an
energy-generating shelter in accordance with an alternate
embodiment of the present invention;
[0037] FIG. 11 is a side elevation view of an alternate embodiment
of the energy-generating shelter view in accordance with an
alternate embodiment of the present invention; and
[0038] FIG. 12 is a sectional view of an alternate embodiment of
the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0039] Referring to the Figures generally, there is illustrated a
carport 10 in accordance with one aspect of the invention. Carport
10 includes a rigid, self-supporting concave canopy 12 that is
composed of a rigid self-supporting material, and that typically is
of a width and length larger than the width and length of a
standard size automobile A. Carport 10 also includes a supporting
structure 14 that rigidly connects to and extends vertically from
canopy 12. Carport 10 further includes a horizontally extending
longitudinally extending support member 16 that rigidly secures to
supporting structure 14 and has an end 18 that is laterally spaced
from canopy 12. Member 16 may be an I-beam as illustrated or may be
any desired structure such as a tubular or box-like structural
member, as long as it is capable of providing the desired
structural support.
[0040] Carport 10 further includes a generally vertical post member
20, which in this case is an I-beam, although any suitable
structure can be used, that has an upper portion 22 to which
laterally spaced end 18 of support member 16 is connected, as
illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3. I-beam vertical post member 20
extends laterally past the edge of canopy 12, as illustrated in
FIGS. 1 and 3. Post member 20 is suitable for mounting to a
supporting surface, such as a base plate 24, to which it is mounted
with bolts 24', as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3. Alternatively,
post member 20 can be mounted to a foundation (not shown) or other
suitable structure. Alternatively, end 18 could be mounted to a
building or other suitable structure to provide the desired
elevation for canopy 12.
[0041] Rigid, concave canopy 12 can be composed of a desired
material and may be either light transmissive material or
transparent material and optionally can be also composed of light
emissive material. Thus, if desired, an unobstructed view of both
what is sheltered underneath the canopy and of the corresponding,
surrounding environment can be provided, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3,
for example, particularly when the canopy is transparent.
[0042] Rigid, concave canopy 12 has a radius of curvature R of from
about five to thirty feet, as shown in FIG. 3. Such curvature will
provide enough of a slope for debris and rain runoff.
[0043] Rigid, concave canopy 12 of carport 10 may be composed of a
single panel (not shown) or a plurality of rigid, self-supporting
concave panels 26 secured in side-by-side relationship, as best
shown in FIG. 2. Each concave panel 26 is secured to another
concave panel 26 with a concave channel member 28, which is shown
in FIGS. 6 and 8. Each concave panel 26 can be bonded into concave
channel member 28, which can be accomplished by use of a suitable
adhesive, for example, or by a friction fit. Outer concave panels
26 are secured into a concave panel edging strip 30, which is shown
in FIGS. 6 and 7. Panel edging 30 protects the edges of panels 26
from the elements and ensures that they remain secured
together.
[0044] Rigid, concave canopy 12 is suspended from supporting
structure 14, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. Alternatively,
supporting structure 14 could be located below the canopy instead
of above (not shown).
[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, supporting structure 14 is
composed of a plurality of longitudinally spaced arcuate members 32
that conform to the canopy's radius of curvature and have
vertically extending straight portions 34, as best shown in FIGS. 4
and 6. Arcuate members 32 are composed of a rigid material, such as
tubular steel or aluminum, for example, and may be composed of
stainless steel tubing that is bent or otherwise formed to provide
the desired configuration. Each arcuate member 32 connects to
canopy 12 at two transversely spaced apart locations, as
illustrated in FIG. 4.
[0046] Arcuate members 32 are mounted to a longitudinally extending
support member 33 that forms part of support structure 14 by means
of reinforcing arms 36, 36' and 36'', which together with arcuate
members 32, form a rigid structure, as best illustrated in FIG. 4.
Arcuate members 32 in one embodiment have a central horizontally
extending portion 32', as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, for example.
Arcuate members 32 can be of a shape as desired. Reinforcing arms
36, 36' and 36'' provide additional support for arcuate members 32
to ensure structural integrity. Reinforcing arms 36, 36' and 36''
include ends 38, 38' and 38'' and can be composed of the same
material as that of arcuate member 32. Arms 36, 36' and 36'' each
have ends 36a, 36a' and 36a'' and are rigidly secured to support
member 16, such as by welding or otherwise securing a block 56, 56'
and 56'' to a respective plate 58 or for blocks 56 and 56'' to
vertical side 42'' and 44' of I-beams 42 and 44, respectively, such
as with nuts and bolts 60 and 62. Alternatively, any other suitable
structure could be utilized to form the desired rigid connection of
arms 36, 36' and 36'' to longitudinal support member 33. The two
downwardly depending spaced apart ends 34' of each arcuate member
32 are secured to correspondingly transversely spaced apart areas
of canopy 12 as hereinafter described in greater detail with
particular reference to FIG. 4.
[0047] Longitudinally extending support member 33 is preferably
located above the longitudinal centerline of canopy 12, as shown in
FIGS. 1 and 4, for example, and may be in any suitable
configuration. In an alternate embodiment (not shown), member 42 of
longitudinally extending support member 33 or similar structure
could extend longitudinally past one longitudinal end of canopy 12
(such as end 12' in FIGS. 2 and 6) for mounting to a vertical post
or other member (not shown) or to a wall (not shown), for example,
or other supporting structure.
[0048] In the illustrated embodiment as shown in FIG. 5,
longitudinally extending support member 33 is composed of two pairs
of I-beams, 42 and 44 respectively, connected together by any
suitable structure, such as by welds W, for example, one pair being
located on each longitudinal half portion of canopy 12, as shown in
FIG. 2. The longitudinally extending support member 33 is securely
connected to a transversely extending support member 16, which is
illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, for example, and as illustrated is an
I-beam. End plates 48 are located at the ends of longitudinally
extending support member 33 that are secured to the vertical
portion 16' of I-beam or member 16 via bolts, as illustrated in
FIGS. 4 and 5 or other suitable structure.
[0049] Ends 34' of members 32 have flanges 50 that attach ends 34'
of arcuate members 32 to rigid, concave canopy 12, as shown in
FIGS. 3, 4 and 6. These flanges 50 preferably have a curved
contacting surface for contact with the curved surface of panels 26
and thus preferably are curved to the corresponding curvature of
the concave panel, as shown in FIG. 3. In addition, each flange 50
has a complementary flange 52 located on the opposite surface of
canopy 12 in a location directly corresponding to flange 50 and
that is curved to correspond to the curvature of the concave panel,
as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. Each pair of flanges 50 and 52 are
secured together with one of panels 26 therebetween by suitable
fasteners such as nuts and bolts 62 that extend through the
respective panels 26, as shown in FIG. 4. Alternatively, a suitably
curved blocking member could be located between the flanges and
respective panel 26. To isolate panels 26 from vibration and/or
shock from support structure 14, a thin, flexible bushing or pad
(not shown) may be interposed between each of flanges 50 and 52 and
respective panel 26, which may be constructed of suitable material
as desired, such as rubber, vinyl material or polyurethane
material, which may be transparent, for example.
[0050] An alternate attachment system is illustrated in FIG. 9. A
bolt 64 has an end 66 that is embedded in canopy 12a, which is
similar to canopy 12. End 66 is preferably of relatively large
cross-sectional area to distribute forces over a relatively large
area of canopy 12a.
[0051] Flange 50', similar to previously described flange 50 is
shown in a fragmentary sectional elevation view. Interposed between
flange 50' is a bushing 68 which may be constructed of relatively
flexible material such as rubber, vinyl material or polyurethane
material, which may be transparent. A nut 70 is threadably fastened
onto threaded portion 72 of bolt 64 to secure flange 50' to canopy
12a. Any other suitable structure to fasten the supporting
structure to the rigid canopy may be used in accordance with the
invention.
[0052] FIGS. 10-12 depict alternate embodiments of the present
invention. A shelter 100 in accordance with the invention is
capable of producing electrical energy. Shelter 100 is wall-less
and includes one or more canopies 102a and 102b, supporting
structure 104a and 104b. One of ordinary skill in the art will
realize that shelter 100 may include a plurality of canopies and
supporting structures (as shown in FIG. 10) or a single canopy and
supporting structure without detracting from the present invention.
Canopies 102a and 102b each have a width and a length defining a
respective sheltered area 108a and 108b thereunder. Preferably, the
dimensions of canopies 102a and 102b are such that each sheltered
area 108a and 108b provides sufficient cover for at least one car,
a sport utility vehicle, a small truck, or similar vehicle.
Canopies 102a and 102b may be composed of a light transmissive or
transparent material as previously described with tinted or
untinted glass, plexiglass or similar methacrylate derivatives
being preferred and can optionally incorporate or be composed of
light emissive material. Canopies 102a and 102b each may be rigid
or flexible, curved, substantially flat, composed of a single panel
or composed of a plurality of panels secured in a side-by-side
relationship as previously described.
[0053] Each supporting structure 104a and 104b can be of any
desired or suitable construction or design and as illustrated
includes a respective vertical support member 110a and 110b, a
longitudinal support structure member 112a and 112b and arch
supports 114a and 114b to support each respective canopy 102a and
102b above the ground as shown in FIG. 10. Supporting structures
104a and 104b support respective canopies 102a and 102b without
walls permitting substantially unobstructed access to sheltered
areas 108a and 108b. Consequently, vehicles 116a and 116b may
readily enter and exit respective sheltered areas 108a and 108b and
be substantially sheltered or covered by respective canopies 102a
and 102b while parked in each sheltered area. One skilled in the
art will appreciate that shelter 100 may be dimensioned to
adequately shelter a plurality of vehicles parked in parking spots
118a, 118b and 118c in a similar manner.
[0054] Associated with each canopy 102a and 102b is a photovoltaic
device 120 capable of producing an electrical current when exposed
to a light source. Typically, device 120 is a photovoltaic device
and any suitable photovoltaic device may be used in the present
invention. Photovoltaic devices which generate an electrical
current when exposed to a light source are well known in the art.
Typically, such devices include a semiconducting component,
collectors, grid wires, a contact layer, an encapsulant and
optionally a mechanical (i.e., lenses or reflectors) or chemical
(i.e., gallium arsenide) concentrator used to increase electrical
output and/or an up/down converter (i.e., aluminum arsenide,
gallium phosphide, or boron in cubic silicon). Nonlimiting examples
of materials known to be photovoltaic are organic or inorganic
semiconductors composed of silicon with or without germanium and
compound semiconductors such as cadmium sulfide-copper sulfide,
gallium arsenide, cuprous oxide, cadmium telluride, cadmium
selenide, copper indium diselenide, copper indium gallium
diselenide, indium gallium arsenide nitride, lead dioxide, titanium
dioxide, dye sensitized solar cells (organic), hybrid solar cells
and combinations thereof. The skilled artisan will recognize that
photovoltaic device 120 may be configured as a rigid crystalline
photovoltaic system or as a thin film flexible amorphous
photovoltaic system as is commonly known in the art.
[0055] Photovoltaic device 120 may be associated with canopies 102a
and 102b in any suitable manner as is commonly known in the art.
For example, the skilled artisan will appreciate that photovoltaic
device 120 may be an array of self-contained solar panels affixed
to or otherwise supported by either canopy 102a or 102b.
Alternatively, each canopy 102a and/or 102b may serve as a
substrate upon which photovoltaic device 120 may be applied as a
flexible thin film photovoltaic system. Photovoltaic device 120 may
also be integral to or dispersed within canopy 102a and/or 102b and
can be of any suitable type, for example, either a crystalline
structure or an amorphous thin film system. When adequately
encapsulated, photovoltaic device 120 may even be utilized to form
the canopy itself. It is understood that canopy 102a and/or 102b as
well as photovoltaic device 120 may be continuous or non-continuous
as it may be necessary to intersperse supporting devices between
adjacent canopy panels and/or photovoltaic device panels.
Regardless of the association between photovoltaic device 120 and
canopies 102a and 102b, it is preferred that photovoltaic device
120 is suitably oriented to receive sunlight.
[0056] It is apparent that the most effective photovoltaic energy
generation will occur when shelter 100 is situated in high and
direct sunlight exposure areas, direct sunlight being most
preferred. To maximize sunlight exposure, longitudinal support
members 112a and 112b and arch support members 114a and 114b are
preferably disposed on the underside of each respective canopy 102a
and 102b. It is contemplated that application of shelter 100 to the
open sun-exposed areas of large parking lots presents particular
synergistic benefits of the present invention as will be described
hereafter. Shelter 100 may be used at individual residential or
commercial parking areas as well. Photovoltaic device 120 could be
mounted to any suitable structure or mechanism for movement in
order to follow and be oriented towards the sun for maximum
efficiency.
[0057] Wiring (not shown) extends from photovoltaic device 120
through supporting structures 104a and 104b to deliver the
electricity generated by photovoltaic device 120 to electrical load
106. Electrical load 106 may be any device or system that
transports, uses, or stores electricity as is commonly known in the
art. In one embodiment of the invention, electrical load 106 may be
the electrical power demand of a building or dwelling adjacent
shelter 100. In this embodiment, the electricity generated by
shelter 100 is sent to a power converter or inverter 124 to convert
the DC electricity generated by photovoltaic device 120 into AC
electricity. The AC electricity is then sent to the building to
supplement, reduce or substitute altogether the power supplied by a
conventional utility company.
[0058] Alternatively, electrical load 106 may be a local power
company which utilizes the electricity generated by shelter 100.
The AC electricity of power converter 124 may be sent directly to a
local utility company to be distributed to other power consumers
serviced by the utility company. The shelter-generated power may
also be divided among multiple loads. For example, the AC converted
electricity generated by shelter 100 may be used to supply power to
an adjacent building with any excess electricity delivered to the
nearby utility company.
[0059] In the event it is not possible to send electricity to the
utility company, provision of a power meter 126 operatively
connected to either shelter 100 or an adjacent building powered by
shelter 100 enables the electricity generated by shelter 100 to
reverse meter the power meter 126. Reverse metering occurs when
excess electricity produced by shelter 100 spins power meter 126
backwards effectively banking the electricity until it is needed.
This enables the operator of shelter 100 to obtain full retail
value of any shelter-generated electricity.
[0060] In an alternate embodiment of the invention, electrical load
106 may be a battery 122 to store the shelter-generated electricity
for later use. Battery 122 may be electrically connected to a light
128 as shown in FIG. 10. Light 128 may be used to illuminate
sheltered area 108a and/or 108b or any outdoor area such as a
parking lot, for example, during nightfall or other periods of
little or no sunlight. It will be appreciated that photovoltaic
device 120 may generate electricity when exposed to light emitted
from light 128 or other artificial light.
[0061] FIG. 11 shows another embodiment of the present invention
wherein a photovoltaic device 130a is associated with the upper
surface of a canopy 132 and a photovoltaic device 130b is
associated with the underside surface of canopy 132 in any suitable
manner as previously described. Photovoltaic device 130a is
oriented toward the sun while photovoltaic device 130b is directed
toward the ground. Photovoltaic devices 130a and 130b may be
composed of transparent flexible film photovoltaic material as is
commonly known in the art enabling photovoltaic devices 130a and
130b to be composed of multiple layers of photovoltaic
material.
[0062] An electric light 134 of any desired type is attached to the
underside of, in between the layers or located below, canopy 132
and may be operatively connected to battery 122. Light 134 may be
any suitable light emitting device including, but not limited to
incandescent, fluorescent, metal ion, or halogen based light
sources as well as an organic or inorganic light emitting diode.
Light 134 may be a conventional bulb configuration or a thin film
system as is commonly known in the art. Shelter-generated
electricity stored in battery 122 may then be used to power light
134 and illuminate sheltered area 135 and vehicle 137 during
periods of darkness. The presence of photovoltaic device 130b on
the underside as well as on the top side of canopy 132 allows for
the generation of electricity when light 134 is illuminated. It is
understood that light 134 may include a switch enabling an operator
to select either battery 122 or conventional power as the light
power source.
[0063] FIG. 12 depicts a further embodiment of the present
invention wherein a photovoltaic device 138 is composed of a layer
of photovoltaic material 140a oriented to receive sunlight, a thin
layer light emitting material, which can be light emitting diode
(LED) 142 or other light emitting or emissive material, including a
phosphor layer or coating, for example. Light generated by the LED
or light emissive material can be used to generate electricity by
photovoltaic device 138. Stacked layers of photovoltaic devices and
light emissive materials can also be used, if desired, and a
photovoltaic material 140b oriented toward the ground. Photovoltaic
material 140a and 140b may be the same or different. Preferably,
both photovoltaic material 140a and 140b are composed of a single
layer or multiple layers of flexible thin film transparent
photovoltaic material as is commonly known in the art. Photovoltaic
device 138 may be associated with canopy 102a and/or 102b in any
suitable manner as previously described. Preferably, photovoltaic
device 138 is dispersed within or encapsulated by either canopy
102a or 102b.
[0064] LED 142 is preferably an organic light-emitting device
(OLED). OLEDs are thin, film-based organic substrate layers
sandwiched between a transparent anode and a metal cathode to
produce surface emitting light. OLEDs are readily deposited on
flexible plastic films or foils making them well-suited for use
with flexible thin film photovoltaic systems. OLEDs are typically
deposited or fabricated on a glass or plastic substrate to form a
multi-layer structure having a thickness typically in the range of
about one hundred to about several hundred nanometers. The
photovoltaic material and OLED can be located on the same substrate
and can be vapor deposited or formed in a roll-to-roll system by
any suitable method known in the art.
[0065] Preferably, photovoltaic device 140b is transparent,
enabling LED 142 to illuminate the sheltered area when operatively
connected and powered by battery 122 during periods of darkness. A
layer of reflective material co-extensive with LED 142 may be
placed on the upper side of LED 142 to direct the light emitted
from LED 142 substantially downward. One of ordinary skill in the
art will recognize that photovoltaic device 140b may generate
electricity when LED 142 is illuminated. LED 142 may be operatively
connected to a switch allowing an operator to select whether LED
142 is powered by battery 122 or conventional electrical power. LED
142, dispersed or placed in the roof's vicinity, can be used to
display human readable indicia, and thus can be used as an
information display while generating electricity simultaneously.
Such LED displays and associated equipment to display indicia are
well known in the art and are not described in detail herein.
[0066] One skilled in the art will readily understand the numerous
advantages and benefits of the present invention. The present
invention provides the synergistic effect of providing cover from
the sun and other natural elements while simultaneously generating
electrical power. This makes the energy generating shelter of the
present invention well-suited for use in large parking lots at
shopping malls, retail outlets, commuter sites and commercial
facilities, for example. Parking areas at these locations are
typically outdoors and experience high sun exposure. Thus, erecting
the inventive electricity generating shelter at such sites would
not only provide an alternate energy source but would yield the
added benefit of protecting parked vehicles from the elements,
i.e., sun, hail and rain, for example, while maintaining the
vehicles' interior at a cooler temperature to the favor of vehicle
operators departing these sites, as well as illuminate dark areas
for safety reasons.
[0067] The present era of energy deregulation, rising utility costs
and an increased frequency of power outages has increased public
awareness of these problems and underscores the need for effective
alternate forms of energy generation. Utilized on a large scale,
the energy generating shelter of the present invention may
significantly reduce the strain on overburdened and aging power
grids by supplying power directly to energy consumers adjacent the
shelters. Power grid strain may be further reduced by supplying the
shelter-generated energy to a nearby utility company for further
distribution to other energy consumers. Wide-scale application of
the present energy generating shelter may considerably reduce the
occurrence of rolling brownouts, blackouts or other problems
associated with power grid strain, particularly during peak energy
demand periods resulting from, for example, hot sunny days, which
are also the types of days when maximum electricity can be produced
by photovoltaic devices.
[0068] While the invention has been described with respect to
certain preferred embodiments, as will be appreciated by those
skilled in the art, it is to be understood that the invention is
capable of numerous changes, modifications and rearrangements and
such changes, modifications and rearrangements are intended to be
covered by the following claims.
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