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Abstract

Solar energy conversion apparatus including a rotatable converter with a core that is triangular in cross-section and tapers towards its ends. A multiplicity of hemispherical photovoltaic cells are supported on the sides of the core. Two metal foil layers insulated from each other are connected to different conductivity type portions of the cells, the outer foil layer being reflective. A glass shell covers the core and tapers toward each end. The shell has a dodecagonal cross-section with four facets overlying each side of the core, alternate facets being left uncovered and transparent and the other facets being silvered, thus forming reflective interior surfaces for reflection of sunlight entering the shell. A parabolic reflector directs sunlight on an end of the converter. A stationary housing concentric about the converter has a reflective inner surface in first and second end sections parallel to the taperings of the shell. The housing is divided into three sections each containing a field winding. Commutators at the ends of the converter electrically connect the foil layers to the field windings so that the converter will rotate when current passes from the cells, through the commutators, to the field windings. Upon rotation of the converter, sunlight is variously directed and reflected to the cells in a rapidly changing cycle. Output leads from the commutators provide for discharge of developed electrical energy.

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First Claim