U.S. patent application number 16/356167 was filed with the patent office on 2019-07-11 for modular photovoltaic light and power cube.
The applicant listed for this patent is Daniel L. Robertson. Invention is credited to Robert F. Schmidt.
Application Number | 20190214937 16/356167 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58692122 |
Filed Date | 2019-07-11 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190214937 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Schmidt; Robert F. |
July 11, 2019 |
MODULAR PHOTOVOLTAIC LIGHT AND POWER CUBE
Abstract
Submitted is a modular stationary portable photovoltaic solar
powered electrical generation, storage and supply device and light
tower. The device forms a protective crate shaped module when the
various components, such as the solar panel arrays, telescoping
mast, and light assembly or outriggers of the device are retracted
to where the boundaries may be defined by the perimeters of the
cube or prism. This modular design can allow for the modules to be
stored, loaded, or shipped quickly, efficiently, and in greater
quantities on flatbeds, in shipping containers, in warehouses, and
other settings and modes where they can not only be packed end to
end and side to side with no unused space, but can also be stacked
up to three modules high for significantly higher storage density.
Multiple modules can be interconnected to create incrementally
larger power generation, storage and distribution systems.
Inventors: |
Schmidt; Robert F.;
(Pittsboro, NC) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Robertson; Daniel L. |
Raleigh |
NC |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
58692122 |
Appl. No.: |
16/356167 |
Filed: |
March 18, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15349660 |
Nov 11, 2016 |
10236820 |
|
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16356167 |
|
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62254997 |
Nov 13, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H02S 40/32 20141201;
H02S 20/32 20141201; F21V 21/22 20130101; H02S 30/10 20141201; Y02B
20/72 20130101; F21S 9/032 20130101; H02S 40/30 20141201; H02S
30/20 20141201; F21S 8/08 20130101; F21W 2131/10 20130101; F24S
30/425 20180501; H02S 10/40 20141201; H02S 40/38 20141201; H02S
20/30 20141201; H02J 3/383 20130101; Y02E 10/50 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H02S 10/40 20060101
H02S010/40; H02S 40/32 20060101 H02S040/32; H02S 20/32 20060101
H02S020/32; H02S 40/30 20060101 H02S040/30; H02J 3/38 20060101
H02J003/38; F21S 9/03 20060101 F21S009/03; F21V 21/22 20060101
F21V021/22; H02S 40/38 20060101 H02S040/38; H02S 30/20 20060101
H02S030/20; H02S 30/10 20060101 H02S030/10; H02S 20/30 20060101
H02S020/30 |
Claims
1. A solar power energy generation module comprising: a rectangular
structure at least partially defining boundaries of a protective
enclosure; at least one retractable mounting frame connected to the
rectangular structure by an articulating means and positionable
between a first, retracted configuration and a second, lifted
configuration; at least one extendable solar panel array attached
to the retractable mounting frame, the at least one extendable
solar panel array positionable between a first, collapsed transport
configuration and a second, extended operating configuration; and a
system for storing and using power harvested by the solar panel
array, the system in electrical communication with the solar panel
array and including; at least one battery housed within the
boundaries of the protective enclosure and configured to store the
power harvested by the at least one solar panel array, and at least
one electrical load configured to use the power harvested by the
solar panel array, wherein the electrical load is configured to
extend beyond the rectangular structure and retract back within to
the boundaries of the protective enclosure.
2. The solar power energy generation module of claim 1, wherein the
system for storing and using power further comprises a DC/AC
inverter.
3. The solar power energy generation module of claim 1, wherein the
system for storing and using power further comprises a DC power
optimizer.
4. The solar power energy generation module of claim 1, wherein the
system for storing and using power further comprises a battery
charger configured to convert AC power from a generator or an AC
outlet.
5. The solar power energy generation module of claim 1, wherein the
solar power energy generation module further comprises any
combination of components to utilize either 110 v or 220 v AC or DC
input or output.
6. The solar power energy generation module of claim 1, wherein the
solar power energy generation module further comprises at least one
additional power source, wherein the at least one additional power
source is a wind turbine, a fuel cell, or a combustion powered
generator.
7. The solar power energy generation module of claim 1, wherein in
the second, extended configuration, the solar panel array is longer
than the rectangular structure.
8. The solar power energy generation module of claim 1, wherein the
first, collapsed configuration of the solar panel array is a folded
configuration, and wherein the second, extended configuration of
the solar panel array is an unfolded configuration.
9. The solar power energy generation module of claim 1, wherein the
electrical load is connected to a top portion of an extendable and
retractable telescoping mast, the top portion of the telescoping
mast extendable to a first vertically oriented position above an
upper surface of the rectangular structure and retractable to a
second vertically oriented position below the upper surface of the
rectangular structure, such that the electrical load is storable
within the boundaries of the protective enclosure.
10. The solar power energy generation module of claim 9, wherein
the upper surface of the rectangular structure comprises a portal
through which the mast extends in the first vertically oriented
position, and a portal cover for closing the upper surface of the
rectangular structure when the mast is in the second vertically
oriented position.
11. The solar power energy generation module of claim 9, wherein
the electrical load is a light, communication device, antenna, or
camera.
12. The solar power energy generation module of claim 1, wherein
the rectangular structure comprises a first plurality of rails
forming a base perimeter of the rectangular structure, vertical
posts extending perpendicularly from the first plurality of rails,
and a second plurality of rails forming an upper platform and
extending perpendicularly from the vertical posts.
13. The solar power energy generation module of claim 12, wherein
the rectangular structure further comprises at least two extendable
stabilizer rails extending through at least two corresponding ones
of the first plurality of rails.
14. A method of harvesting and using solar energy, the method
comprising: providing the solar power energy generation module of
claim 1; harvesting solar energy via the at least one extendable
solar panel array; storing harvested solar energy to the at least
one battery; transferring power stored in the battery to one or
more electrical loads; and using the harvested solar energy.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the electrical load is a light,
communication device, antenna, or camera that is storable within
the boundaries of the protective enclosure.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein the electrical load is an
external or auxiliary electrical tool, machine, device, or
facility.
17. The method of claim 14, further comprising inverting DC power
supplied by the solar panel array to AC power within the boundaries
of the protective enclosure.
18. The method of claim 14, further comprising electrically
connecting the at least one battery of the solar power energy
generation module to a battery housed within a protective enclosure
of one or more additional solar power energy generation modules to
create a battery grid, and transferring the power of the battery
grid to a remote DC/AC power inverter prior to transferring power
to the electrical load.
19. The method of claim 14, further comprising electrically
connecting the at least one battery of the solar power energy
generation module to a battery housed within a protective enclosure
of one or more additional solar power energy generation modules to
create a battery grid, and transferring the power of the battery
grid to a remote power distribution center prior to transferring
power to the electrical load.
20. A power generation device comprising: at least one DC/AC
inverter; at least one electrical load; and a plurality of energy
generation modules in electrical communication with each other, the
DC/AC inverter, and the at least one electrical load, each module
comprising; a rectangular structure at least partially defining
boundaries of a protective enclosure, at least one DC power source
configured to be stored within the protective enclosure and
positionable outside of the boundaries of the protective enclosure,
and at least one battery.
21. The power generation device of claim 20, wherein the power
generation device further comprises a battery grid, the battery
grid including at least one battery from each module of the
plurality of solar power energy generation modules.
22. The power generation device of claim 21, wherein the DC/AC
inverter is positioned and configured to invert energy collected
from multiple batteries of the battery grid.
23. The power generation device of claim 20, wherein the at least
one DC/AC inverter is positioned within the boundaries of the
protective enclosure.
24. The power generation device of claim 20, wherein the at least
one DC power source is a solar panel array.
25. The power generation device of claim 24, further comprising at
least one additional DC power source, wherein the at least one
additional DC power source is a wind turbine.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 15/349,660, filed Nov. 11, 2016, which claims the benefit of
priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/254,997,
filed Nov. 13, 2015, the disclosures of which are incorporated
herein by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Many operations in a variety of settings function during the
dark hours of the day where activities could not proceed without
adequate light. Construction, military operations, facilities
management and maintenance operations, parties and special events,
athletic events, emergency response, and industrial operations are
a few examples. Fixed and mobile light sources are two options that
can help to illuminate the setting. Fixed lighting is often
characterized by streetlights, area lighting in the form of flood
lights, or other permanent structures that are connected to an
electric utility and operate off of traditionally delivered
electric power. Mobile solutions include trailer mounted gas or
diesel powered lights, as well as trailer mounted lights powered
with alternative energy.
[0003] Infrastructure limitations to fixed lighting require that
each site to be lit be hardwired to the utility in order to
function, a requirement which may mandate continual use of the same
site to justify the time and expense of such an installation. This
often does not meet the needs of the activity. Mobile lighting in
various forms may be moved to accommodate the location and timing
of the activity, and may be temporary in nature; however, can be
expensive and loud to run, as well as can impose environmental
ramifications as a result of emissions from the system. Mobile
options, while easy to transport individually, do not allow for
efficient use of limited deck space on a tractor trailer or cargo
space in a shipping container or other cargo transport in order to
ship maximum multiple units at one time.
[0004] The incorporation of a trailer base into a mobile light
tower adds wheels and fenders to the mobile light tower, an
addition that may introduce adverse effects while having no
positive impact on performance capabilities. The use of wheels
makes the unit more unstable during transport, thus requiring a
more secure and labor intensive restraint system. The addition of
wheels and fenders as well as the requisite tow bar and hitch on
the front of the mobile units that define the present art add width
and length to the light tower. The stowed mast and light assembly
projecting from the back of the current mobile units add more
length and further impede packing and shipping, and therefore
impose significant limitations on the quantity of light towers that
can be shipped, also significantly increasing the time and
difficulty required to load mobile light towers. The additional
design challenges created by an exposed light assembly and solar
panels to an already inefficient footprint produce an even more
cumbersome and fragile package. Also, using rubber tires as a
foundation of a mobile light tower increases the maintenance
regimen and wear and tear on the unit. It also introduces the
vulnerability of having a worn or damaged tire render the unit
inoperable.
[0005] Designing a light tower on a trailer base creates the need
for driving, directional and brake lights, and the associated
wiring. They require a unique DOT administered VIN and, therefore,
a title. Many states require a light tower to be registered and
assigned a state license plate, which is renewed annually.
[0006] Mobile lighting units powered by renewable energy sources
offer power only to the on board light fixtures, denying users the
ability to power other devices such as phones, computers, small
electrical tools, or other electrically powered devices directly
from the unit.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] There remains a need in the market for a compact modular
unit powered by renewable energy that is portable but stationary,
robust in design so as to withstand rigorous use and transport,
able to be tightly packed and stacked to meet shipping and storage
needs, compact so as to fit more units in a single transport
carrier, and with area and directional lighting capability as well
as AC and DC power delivery capability for use powering other
electrical devices external from the module.
[0008] Accordingly, the present invention is directed to modular
photovoltaic light and power cube that obviates one or more of the
problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related
art.
[0009] An advantage of the present invention is to provide a solar
powered energy generation module, comprising a first plurality of
rails forming a base perimeter and defining a footprint of a
support structure; at least two openings extending laterally one
rail of the first plurality of rails; at least two stabilizer rails
extending through at least two corresponding ones of the first
plurality of rails; vertical posts extending perpendicularly from
the first plurality of rails; a second plurality of rails forming
an upper platform and extending perpendicularly from the vertical
posts; an upper platform comprising upper rails above the frame
support structure corner posts positioned near intersections of two
of the plurality of rails; and at least one mounting frame
comprising a solar panel array; the at least one mounting frame
connected to the upper platform via by an articulating means to
provide a range of motion for the mounting frame with respect to
the upper platform.
[0010] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be
set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be
apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the
invention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention
will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed
out in the written description and claims hereof as well as the
appended drawings.
[0011] To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with
the purpose of the present invention, as embodied and broadly
described, in one embodiment, A power generation device comprising
a plurality of solar powered energy generation modules, each module
of the plurality in electrical communication with another of said
modules, each module comprising a first plurality of rails forming
a base perimeter and defining a footprint of a support structure;
at least two openings extending laterally one rail of the first
plurality of rails; at least two stabilizer rails extending through
at least two corresponding ones of the first plurality of rails;
vertical posts extending perpendicularly from the first plurality
of rails; a second plurality of rails forming an upper platform and
extending perpendicularly from the vertical posts; an upper
platform comprising upper rails above the frame support structure
corner posts positioned near intersections of two of the plurality
of rails; at least one mounting frame comprising a solar panel
array; the at least one mounting frame connected to the upper
platform via by an articulating means to provide a range of motion
for the mounting frame with respect to the upper platform; and a
DC/AC inverter.
[0012] In another aspect of the present invention, another
embodiment of the method according to principles of the present
invention includes deploying a solar powered energy generation
module, comprising inserting a material handling rail into an
opening in a base of the solar generation module and moving the
module using the material handling rail so that the module
comprising at least one solar array so that the solar array faces
south; removing the material handing rail from the opening;
extending stabilizer rails from the modules; extending a mast from
the module to a desired height; turning the mast assembly on a
rotating base to a desired direction; and deploying the at least
one solar array.
[0013] The details of one or more embodiments of the disclosure are
set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.
Other features, objects, and advantages of the disclosure will be
apparent from the description and drawings, and from the
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The accompanying figures, which are incorporated herein and
form part of the specification, illustrate the modular photovoltaic
light and power cube of the present invention. Together with the
description, the figures further serve to explain the principles of
the modular photovoltaic light and power cube described herein and
thereby enable a person skilled in the pertinent art to make and
use the modular photovoltaic light and power cube.
[0015] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of modular light tower showing
ladder, control box side and extended outriggers. One panel array
unfolded and extended, one panel array stowed
[0016] FIG. 2 is an isometric view showing telescoping mast side
(missing winch) and upper rail support structure (grating removed)
solar panel frame hinge and actuators.
[0017] FIG. 3 is an isometric view showing both solar panel arrays
extended but folded, light mast extended with light assembly at
height and battery enclosure
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the
modular photovoltaic light and power cube with reference to the
accompanying figures, in which like reference numerals indicate
like elements.
[0019] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made in the present invention
without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus,
it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications
and variations of this invention provided they come within the
scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
[0020] The following description of certain examples of the
inventive concepts should not be used to limit the scope of the
claims. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and
advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art from
the following description. As will be realized, the device and/or
methods are capable of other different and obvious aspects, all
without departing from the spirit of the inventive concepts.
Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as
illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
[0021] For purposes of this description, certain aspects,
advantages, and novel features of the embodiments of this
disclosure are described herein. The described methods, systems,
and apparatus should not be construed as limiting in any way.
Instead, the present disclosure is directed toward all novel and
nonobvious features and aspects of the various disclosed
embodiments, alone and in various combinations and sub-combinations
with one another. The disclosed methods, systems, and apparatus are
not limited to any specific aspect, feature, or combination
thereof, nor do the disclosed methods, systems, and apparatus
require that any one or more specific advantages be present or
problems be solved.
[0022] Features, integers, characteristics, or groups described in
conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the
invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other
aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible
therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification
(including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings), and/or
all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be
combined in any combination, except combinations where at least
some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The
invention is not restricted to the details of any foregoing
embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel
combination, of the features disclosed in this specification
(including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings), or to
any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method
or process so disclosed.
[0023] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the
singular forms "a," "an" and "the" include plural referents unless
the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed
herein as from "about" one particular value, and/or to "about"
another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another
aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other
particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as
approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be
understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will
be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are
significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and
independently of the other endpoint.
[0024] "Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently
described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the
description includes instances where said event or circumstance
occurs and instances where it does not.
[0025] Throughout the description and claims of this specification,
the word "comprise" and variations of the word, such as
"comprising" and "comprises," means "including but not limited to,"
and is not intended to exclude, for example, other additives,
components, integers or steps. "Exemplary" means "an example of"
and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal
aspect. "Such as" is not used in a restrictive sense, but for
explanatory purposes.
[0026] The modular photovoltaic light and power cube disclosed
herein meets the need for a variable and or high intensity,
directional, energy efficient light source that can be supported by
a robust energy storage system and powered by renewable solar
energy. Recent improvements in the lumens per watt output of high
intensity lights such as light emitting diode (LED), compact
fluorescent or induction or plasma lamps have increased the light
output and decreased the power input to the point that moderately
sized solar arrays and properly sized power storage systems can
provide the energy needed to support a reliable, sustainable source
of high intensity light.
[0027] This new technology can, in many instances, supplant the
existing source of temporary portable light currently being
supplied by diesel powered light towers. By replacing the older
combustion engine powered technology, the modular photovoltaic
light and power cube not only eliminates the need for fossil fuel
and the resulting carbon and other emissions and pollutants that
carbon based fuels produce, it also eliminates the noise pollution
produced by the combustion engine and the light pollution caused by
metal halide bulbs in broad cast reflector housings.
[0028] Generally, the light and power cube refers to a cube or
rectangular prism-like structure which may contain a battery based
energy storage system powered by a retractable folding array(s) of
solar panels and from which may extend a telescoping or folding
mast fixed with a quantity of light fixtures which can be
individually adjusted to direct light to the desired area or areas
to be illuminated. In addition to the supply of reliable,
sustainable light, the light and power cube may be equipped with a
DC/AC power inverter to supply a reliable source of 110 v or 220 v
AC power to support additional electronic components. The light and
power cube can also have a 110 v or 220 v input, DC output, on
board battery charger to provide a secondary means of charging the
battery bank. As used herein, the terms "light and power cube" and
"module" are used interchangeably.
[0029] The light and power cube meets the needs in the art with a
modular design allowing the module or quantities of modules to be
shipped or stored or deployed with greater efficiency and at less
cost than the prior art technology, enabling the modules to be
tightly packed and or stacked in various configurations for more
compact and flexible storage, shipping, and deployment options.
[0030] By enabling both the solar panel arrays and telescoping or
folding mast supported light assembly to retract within the planar
boundaries defined by the elongated light and power cube, the
external structure of the module creates its own protective
enclosure for shipping or other purposes, negating the need for
secondary protection. Additionally, the module base structure can
offer a much larger area of contact with the ground, unlike the
extended, unstable point loading present in the outrigger and jack
stand support structures of the prior art. The option to ship,
store, or deploy the modules without wheels also eliminates the
maintenance and replacement costs of tires and the down time caused
by damaged tires. The photovoltaic array(s) that may accompany the
module structure may extend, slide, or unfold from the compact
stored position to increase the photovoltaic surface area, and
retract, slide, or fold into a stored position within or in close
proximity to the module frame or skeleton. The photovoltaic array
may provide power to a battery or batteries which store power for
use powering the lights and/or the electric distribution center.
There may be a backup on-board alternative power generation system
for use when batteries run low for a variety of reasons to ensure
continued usefulness of the module as a lighting and/or power
device.
[0031] The modular light and power cube may be fitted with a
retractable mast upon which lights, communication devices, cameras
or other equipment may be mounted. When retracted, the mast and
light assembly will store below the protective grating or other
hard surface which will cover the entire upper area of the cube. On
models with no upper deck surface, the mast and light assembly will
retract within the planer boundaries of the structure. This upper
deck surface can also act as a platform for access to the light
assembly or for securing a four point lifting sling to the
attachment points at or near the corners of the upper deck for
crane mobilization. The upper deck may be fitted with a grated
hatch mounted to the top of the light assembly which can raise with
the mast to allow a portal through the upper deck for the
telescoping or folding mast to pass through when the light assembly
is raised for operation, and to cover the opening when the mast is
retracted. Alternatively, the hatch can be hinged to the deck and
opened to allow mast extension and closed after mast extension to
cover the portal. When in use, the light mast may extend through
the deck to a height of from 1 to 30 feet. The mast may be designed
using a series of gradually decreasing diameter concentric hollow
tubes which store inside each other when retracted, and each
projecting above and supported by the section below when extended.
The mast may also be a series of vertical panels interconnected
with rolling or sliding tracks that can be extended by pistons,
gears or cables in a manner similar to a multistage extension
ladder, or can be another mechanical load bearing device capable of
raising a device(s) or instrument(s) to a height conducive to
module operation. Light is emitted through one or more high
efficiency light sources such as LED, induction lights, compact
fluorescent, or similar.
[0032] The module design accommodates multiple modes of lifting,
moving, stacking, or deployment. On the bottom rail and accessible
from either side of the module there may be structural steel or
other material ports or pockets of some dimension allowing for the
insertion of lifting or moving equipment that may be a forklift,
chains, steel, or some other lifting or moving device. Similar
pockets may exist in or under the top rails of the module to enable
lifting from above the module's center of gravity by fork or sling
or other lifting or moving device. Other ports similar in nature
may exist at other points on the frame of the module. There also
may be placed hooks, eyes, or other means of lifting or securing
the module for movement, shipping, storage, or deployment.
[0033] The module may be secured to a surface in multiple modes by
welding, bolting, or otherwise attaching the base permanently or
semi permanently to a surface. The outer rails may be welded,
screwed, bolted, attached with angle brackets, tied down, strapped,
or otherwise secured to barges, derricks, platforms or other work
surfaces where there is a long or short term need or potential for
the module to shift under excessive or unpredictable forces.
[0034] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-3, the modular light and
power cube includes a cube or rectangular prism shaped open frame
support structure 2 having a planar base 3. The base is constructed
of four or more base rails 5 forming the perimeter of the base and
defining its footprint. Each of the shorter rails 6 of the base
perimeter can be fabricated by stacking two hollow tubes and
welding or otherwise securing them together to form a two bay
rectangular tube. Inserted in each of the four bays 7 are four
slightly narrower stabilizer rails 9, which may be hollow tubes,
bars, beams or structural members of a similar length that can be
extended out of the hollow bays 7 on all four corners of the base
3. The stabilizer rails 9 can act as stabilizers or outriggers by
significantly increasing the lateral footprint of the base 3 when
deployed. To the outer ends of each of the stabilizer rails 9 can
be attached an adjustable foot 11 that can be lowered to make
contact with the ground or other load bearing material to transfer
loading forces. To the stacked sides of the short rails 6 and flush
with each end are attached the long base rails 13, which may
consist of heavy gauge C-channel, structural steel or other
material, and are oriented so that the web forms the outer surface
of the long base rail 13 and the upper and lower flanges are
oriented to the interior of the base. In the area just under the
upper flange of the long base rail 13 and equidistant from the
vertical centerline and each of its ends can be cut two rectangular
openings 21 into each long base rail 13. These openings 21 should
be patterned to allow for minimal clearance for rectangular lifting
tubes 23 to be passed through the two corresponding openings 21 in
each of the two long rails 13. These two lifting tubes 23 should be
the same length as the short rails 6 to enable flush welding of the
edges of the tubes to the perimeter of the cut out opening. The
attached rectangular lifting tubes 23 should be of sufficient
height and width to allow insertion of forklift forks of moderate
size to facilitate forklift handling of the module. The two lifting
tubes 23 also act as the load bearing surface for the battery
enclosure 25, which is mounted to the surface of each and within
the perimeter of the base.
[0035] Additionally, to the base 3 are connected, at or near each
of the four corners of the base, four corner posts 27. These
provide support for the upper rails 29 and upper platform 31 and
protection to the components housed within the perimeter of the
module when not in use.
[0036] Still referring to FIGS. 1-3, the protective structure may
be shielded from above with an upper platform 31 which may be
grated or solid, which consists of four upper rails 29 connected to
the four corner posts 27 that form the perimeter frame of the upper
platform 31. At various locations across the width of the frame can
be placed lateral braces 33 which act as additional support for the
grating, grid work or other hard surface, if so provided, that can
create an accessible work platform and protection for the
components below the surface. At or near the four opposing corners
of this upper platform 31 are lifting points which may provide
connections for a 4 point lifting cable, sling or other handling
device. These lifting points may also act as stacking alignment
fixtures, to provide proper transfer of bearing load on lower units
when stacked in storage. This surface may allow for personnel to
sit, stand, work or otherwise access the top of the module for the
purpose of servicing or adjusting the light fixtures, attaching or
detaching a lifting device from the lifting points or other
functions as they become evident.
[0037] In the area of the upper deck directly above the telescoping
or foldable mast 37 can be located a removable or hinged hatch
cover 39. This hatch cover may be constructed of four solid or
tubular steel sides 41 and covered with a grating material similar
to that which is used to surface the fixed upper platform 31 from
which the hatch cover 39 may be removed or opened. Additionally,
the hatch cover 39 may be attached to the top of the light bar 43
which itself may be connected to the top of the telescoping mast 37
and from which the individual light fixtures 45 are attached. This
method of mounting will allow the hatch cover 39 to form part of
the upper platform 31 when the mast 37 is retracted and allows the
mast mounted light assembly 47 to pass through the upper platform
31 unobstructed when the telescoping mast 37 extends the light
assembly 47 to operating height. In the case of a hinged hatch, the
hatch can have a cut out to allow it to be closed after mast
deployment without being impeded by the extended mast.
[0038] The mast 37, to which the light assembly 47 may be attached
at its uppermost end, may be mounted at its base by a spindle bolt
and base plate support, or other rotating base mechanism which
allows the mast to rotate along its vertical axis. A fixed mast may
also be an option, and the capability of rotating the light
assembly may be accomplished by incorporating a rotating mechanism
or structure to the upper mast and or light assembly to adjust the
orientation of the lights or other mounted device(s) or
instrument(s). The rotating mast may be additionally supported at a
sufficient distance above the base assembly 3 by a cylindrical
collar 53 fixed to a support brace 55 which is itself fixed to the
corner posts 27 located on either side of the mast assembly. Within
this collar may be located the lowermost rotating mast section to
which may be fixed a smaller cylindrical bearing surface placed
around this mast section and positioned concentrically within the
secured outer collar 53 to create a stabilizing structure capable
of allowing mast rotation through the support. To the outer collar
53 can be attached a threaded or other type of nut, through which a
threaded or other type of bolt can be screwed which can bear on the
inner concentric ring to act as a locking mechanism when tightened,
to prevent unwanted mast rotation once the light orientation is
selected. Also mounted to the lowermost mast section may be a
winching or lifting mechanism. This device raises the mast using
cables, pistons or other mechanical means which through applied
mechanical force raises the series of interconnected mast sections
to carry the light assembly, cameras, antennas or other device to
the elevation desired for operation.
[0039] Still referring to FIGS. 1-3, at or near the top of the two
opposing long sides of the open frame support structure may be two
retractable solar panel mounting frames 57 attached by hinges or
other attaching mechanism. To these frames are mounted solar panel
arrays 59 that may be expanded to increase the solar surface area
of the arrays and pivoted along the horizontal axis to orient the
surface of the arrays for optimum solar gain. The solar array (and
mounting frame) may be retracted (or collapsed) to the side of the
base for storage such that the base with the solar arrays forms a
generally rectangular prism or cube. The operation of expanding the
solar array 59 can be performed using hinges, roller mechanisms, or
sliding tracks to expose additional panels in order to increase the
surface area for power generation when deployed, and to reduce the
surface area for storage, transport, or other movement. The
operation of pivoting the solar arrays 59 through their range of
motion may be performed using actuators, cam levers, gear drives or
other mechanical lifting mechanism and powered manually or by the
on board power supply and controlled by switches or other device(s)
to direct the motion to extend or retract the solar arrays to the
desired position. The control switches, light, or other device
activation timers, breakers, and other electrical components
required for the transfer, activation, interruption, or other
conditioning or manipulation of the power storage and transmission
process can be located in control boxes mounted in convenient
locations within the confines of the structure. For long term
deployment or in high wind conditions, the solar arrays can be
secondarily supported by adjustable locking braces which can be
anchored to the base and connected to the solar panel frame and
designed to reduce the stress loading on the primary lifting
mechanism by external forces.
[0040] The power generated by the solar panel arrays 59 can be
combined and optimized through a charge controller(s) or other
voltage regulating device, and stored in a battery bank or other
power storage system. The array may also be optimized through the
use of DC power optimizers or similar device. The stored power can
be used as needed by the light assembly, cameras, or other devices
mounted on the telescoping mast or electronic components, device
charging cabinets or other equipment housed in other areas of the
module, as well as to DC to AC power inverters which can provide a
reliable, renewable AC power supply for operating external or
auxiliary electrical tools, machines, devices or facilities. The
power for the lights or other electrical devices can be activated
and terminated manually as needed, or by clock timers or other
similar load control device. These timers may be programmed to turn
devices on and off automatically using times of the day, days of
the week, or a combination of other criteria to define the
parameters of operation and can be activated manually for on demand
operation. An on board battery charger may be installed to provide
the ability to recharge the power storage system when the panels
are retracted or shaded or in the event that solar power generation
is insufficient to supply the energy needed to fully charge the
system or to sustain the rate of power consumption
independently.
[0041] In applications where demand loads are greater than one
module is capable of supplying, modules can be interconnected to
combine the power generation, storage and distribution capabilities
of multiple units to create larger portable power supplies. The
power generated by the on board DC/AC inverter in each power cube
is limited by the capacity of the modules battery bank. By
combining multiple power cube battery banks through a series of
parallel interconnected (+) to (+) and (-) to (-) bus cables, and
transferring the power of the much larger battery grid through two
trunk lines to the optional remote DC/AC power inverter, the
combined power reserve can supply a much larger or longer duration
demand load.
[0042] Power generation from the solar panel arrays to the battery
banks in an interconnected power cube station is incrementally
supplied by each modules arrays to its dedicated battery bank
independently of the other power cubes in the parallel system.
[0043] Supplemental or alternative power generation for battery
charging or load support can be applied incrementally using the on
board battery charger wired to each individual battery bank. Using
the existing battery charging systems, each of the interconnected
modules should be connected to a power source for uniform battery
recharging. Alternatively, a supplemental source of power can be
applied through the optional remote inverter/charger console, such
as a generator or other alternative power supply, which will
recharge the entire combined battery bank as a single entity.
[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, a solar powered energy
generation and storage module comprises a cuboid or rectangular
prism shaped open frame support structure. The frame support
structure includes a base composed of base rails forming the
perimeter of the base and defining the footprint of the structure.
Corner posts are connected at or near the corners of the base,
which provide support for the upper platform and protection to the
components housed within the module. An upper platform is composed
of upper rails that form the perimeter of the upper platform and
provide a support frame for a grated, gridwork or other hard
surface providing access to the light assembly or other device for
adjustment and/or maintenance and a work structure from which to
connect lifting gear or other devices to the structure for mobility
from a crane or other overhead lifting or mobilization means, or
for securing the module. The upper platform protection of
components located below or within the protective surface. The
upper platform includes a mast portal through which the telescoping
mast can pass when extended. The system further includes a
protective crate-like module when the various components, such as
the solar panel arrays, telescoping mast, and light assembly or
outriggers of the device are retracted to where the boundaries may
be defined by the perimeters of the cube or prism, which may then
be packed or stored side to side and/or end to end with no unused
space, and may additionally be stacked one on top of the other 2 or
3 or more than 3 modules high. Solar panel arrays, which absorb and
convert solar energy to electrical energy for use or storage for
later use, are mounted on adjustable solar panel mounting frames on
the side(s) or other areas of the open frame support structure, and
may be expanded to increase the surface area or change the incident
angle of the solar array, and also may be adjusted in order to
maximize exposure and solar input, or for other reasons. The system
further includes a power storage system designed to store power
generated by the photovoltaic modules or other electricity
generating device(s) for immediate or later use and electrical
power conditioning, control, distribution and generation device(s)
which are used to modify, direct and regulate the energy as energy
travels from the solar panel arrays to the power storage system and
to internal or external electrical devices and from alternative
energy generation devices to the power storage system for demand
loads or secondary charging capability.
[0045] It is contemplated to interconnect multiple modules to
increase the power generation, storage and distribution
characteristics of the whole for demand loads beyond the
capabilities of a single unit.
[0046] A telescoping or extending mast assembly is housed within
the open frame support structure when retracted and may be fixed
with a hatch cover at its upper end to seal the mast portal in the
upper platform when the mast is retracted. The system may include a
mounting location for attaching a number of high efficiency light
fixtures which can be raised to the desired height for illumination
of a selected area, or other device(s) such as a camera, antenna or
other instrument or device which would benefit the module by being
raised to a height.
[0047] The solar powered light tower according to principles of the
present invention may be positioned using a forklift, crane,
trailer or other material handling device, orient the module so
that either of the solar wing sides is facing due south. Next the
four stabilizer rails or outriggers 9 are manually extended from
within the stacked hollow tubes which make up the front and back
base rails. The adjustable feet or outrigger jacks 11 attached to
the extended tips of the stabilizer rails 9 are extended until they
make load bearing contact with the ground. The mast mounted lights
are adjusted to the desired orientation by turning each light
bracket mounted on the light bar to the correct bearing and
pivoting the light within the bracket to the correct incident
angle. All lights can be adjusted in this manner to provide single
point concentrated area lighting, multi-point security or event
lighting or broad cast 360.degree. lighting for parking lot or
other large area general lighting.
[0048] On modules fitted with hinged mast portal doors, the portal
door in the upper deck above the mast is opened prior to extending
the mast 37. On models with the portal cover incorporated into the
top of the light bar on the mast 37, the mast 37 is extended to the
desired height using the winch located at the base of the mast 37.
The mast winch may be manual or electric and will require either
turning the winch handle for manual deployment, or activating the
extend/retract button on the electric winch control.
[0049] The mast assembly is turned on its rotating base as a
further means of adjusting the bearing direction of the light
assembly 47 mounted to the top of the mast 37 and locked in place
using a compression lock found on the support collar 53.
[0050] The retaining mechanisms holding the extendable solar panels
in the folded (stored) position is unsecured and the extendable
solar panels are deployed and secured so that the full solar array
59 is exposed for operation.
[0051] The angle of each solar wing is adjusted using the
extend/retract buttons powering the electric piston actuators,
which control the orientation of the solar arrays 59. The wings
should both be directed to the angle from the horizon where the sun
will be at noon. With the wings bearing south and angled to the
sun's height at noon, the panels are adjusted for maximum solar
gain.
[0052] The lights may be turned on and off manually, or operated
automatically with timer controls or other load control devices.
Light/load timers can be multi-function clock timers programmed to
turn on and off at various times through the night and at different
nights for different times throughout the week.
[0053] A power cube according to principles of the present
invention may be positioned using a forklift, crane, trailer or
other material handling device, orient the module so that either of
the solar wing sides is facing due south. The four stabilizer rails
or outriggers are manually extended from within the stacked hollow
tubes which make up the front and back base rails. The adjustable
feet or outrigger jacks are extended and attached to the extended
tips of the stabilizer rails until they make load bearing contact
with the ground. Retaining mechanisms holding the extendable solar
panels in the folded (stored) position are unsecured and the
extendable solar panels are deployed and secured so that the full
solar array is exposed for operation. The angle of each solar wing
is adjusted using the extend/retract buttons powering the electric
piston actuators which control the orientation of the solar arrays.
The wings should both be directed to the angle from the horizon
where the sun will be at noon. With the wings bearing south and
angled to the sun's height at noon, the panels are adjusted for
maximum solar gain. Load timers can be multi-function clock timers
programmed to turn on and off at various times through the night
and at different nights for different times throughout the week to
control the mast mounted lights or other loads that would benefit
from an automated power supply. The DC/AC power inverter in the
power distribution panel located on the rear of the module is
activated. The ac load or an extension cord which powers a remote
power distribution box containing multiple power outlets may be
plugged into the power inverter, which is configured to accommodate
both 110 v and 220 v loads. The power distribution panel may
contain AC breakers for circuit overload protection. The DC/AC
inverter is powered by the battery bank and will disconnect the
load when the battery bank reaches a predetermined low voltage
disconnect setting. The module's battery bank can be recharged
while under load, either directly by solar input, wind turbine or
other DC power source, or through the onboard battery charger,
powered by an AC power source, such as a fuel cell, combustion
engine powered generator or other power generation device.
[0054] Additionally, an alternative power generation system may be
installed to produce energy in addition to or instead of the PV
solar power generation system. This system can be a wind turbine or
fuel powered generator, such as a diesel, gasoline, hydrogen, LP,
natural gas or other combustible material, and can produce either
AC or DC electricity to recharge the power storage system and or
power the lights or other demand loads placed on the module. This
hybrid power combination would insure the production of a reliable
uninterrupted power supply.
[0055] In applications where demand loads are greater than one
module is capable of supplying, modules can be interconnected to
combine the power generation, storage and distribution capabilities
of multiple units to create larger portable power supplies.
[0056] While various embodiments of the present invention have been
described above, it should be understood that they have been
presented by way of example only, and not limitation. It will be
apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art that various
changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing
from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Persons of
ordinary skill in the art will understand that a wide variety of
suitable supporting structures and patterns can be readily formed.
Any number of longitudinal stiffening ribs or circular ribs could
be provided. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention
should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary
embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the
following claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *