Importance

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Abstract

A solar energy system is disclosed in which the solar energy is converted to electrical energy for immediate use or the energy may be stored for use at a later date. The solar energy is converted to electrical energy by a large photo-voltaic array and the output of the photo-voltaic array is fed through an inverter and other control circuitry to produce an a.c. electrical output of a predetermined magnitude. The a.c. electrical output may be used directly or the electrical energy may be fed to a storage system for later use. In one embodiment the a.c. electrical energy is employed to drive a pneumatic pump or air compressor for storing the energy in the form of a compressed gas, either in a rigid tank or in a resiliently expandable tank. The compressed air from the tank is released through a control valve and is fed through a pneumatic motor. The pneumatic motor drives an electric generator for producing an a.c. electrical output at the desired times. In another embodiment of the invention, the electrical storage system comprises a system suitable to lift a weight. The potential energy is later converted to kinetic energy by lowering the weight and through a linkage system, is utilized for the generation of electricity through an electric generator.

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First Claim