WO2024252388A1

WO2024252388A1 - A cable supported mobile solar panel array apparatus and method

Info

Publication number: WO2024252388A1
Application number: PCT/IL2024/050545
Authority: WO
Inventors: Erez Dor
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2023-06-06
Filing date: 2024-06-02
Publication date: 2024-12-12
Anticipated expiration: 2025-12-06

Abstract

The present invention relates to an easy maintenance cable supported array supplying electric power. A cable-based solar power arrays may be elevated and/or suspended above ground level. The current invention facilitates practical and cost- effective maintenance of a suspended solar array. Maintenance of the solar panels may include, for example, cleaning the panels. The system may include a conveyer sub- system that enables components to be lowered sequentially and/or row by row for maintenance. At the end of the maintenance process the conveyer may return the cable- based solar power array to a solar collection position above the ground. Optionally, repositioning and/or maintenance is achieved without disconnecting the cable-based grid from its anchoring points and/or without losing tension in the grid and/or affecting the spread configuration of the cable-based grid.

Description

A CABLE SUPPORTED MOBILE SOLAR PANEL ARRAY APPARATUS AND METHOD

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/471,282 filed 6 June. 2023, the contents ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention in some embodiments thereof relates to a cable supported solar panel array and more particularly but not exclusively to an easy maintenance cable supported array supplying electric power.

A solar photovoltaic power plant is in most cases a land intensive project, and finding a location for a large-scale project is a growing problem, and a system that could allow a dual use for a land area is a much needed and long sought solution.

US Patent no. 5433259 appears to disclose, “A retractable awning includes a weather protective articulated slat system for protecting the awning when in a retracted position with a solar cell panel incorporated into an articulated slat and connected to a battery for charging the battery.”

US Patent no. 10560050 appears to disclose, “Apparatus, systems and methods are provided for solar awnings or canopies that include rigid solar modules, for example photovoltaic cells or panels. The awnings have solar modules or panels stacked together substantially vertically (e.g., each module is oriented vertically with respect to the next module). The solar modules in the stack are interconnected to each other, such that each solar module is connected electrically and mechanically to adjacent solar modules. The first solar module in the stack of modules is fixed to one end of the base of the awning. The base of the awning is typically mounted to a building, vehicle, mobile home, or other appropriate structure. The last solar module in the stack is attached to a lead arm of the awning. The lead arm moves back and forth (e.g., away and toward) from the base of the awning to enable the expansion or retraction of the awning.”

US Patent Application Publication no. 20180102734 appears to disclose, “A method and system for creating a shaded area using retractably mounted photovoltaic cells is disclosed that utilizes an energy and shade producing canopy of retractable photovoltaic cells or panels that is deployed to create shade and electricity when desired and retracted when not in use.”

US Patent Application Publication no. 20040055633 appears to disclose, “A device intended to be used as a shade, awning, blind and swimming pool cover includes a photocurrent-generating fabric and a support for winding and storing the fabric. The support is formed by an axisymmetric tube of regular polygonal cross-section around the periphery of which the fabric is wound. The photo current-generating fabric includes a layer of interconnected photovoltaic cells.”

US Patent Application Publication no. 20220186149 appears to disclose, “An electric blinds roof structure provided in this invention includes atop frame, and at least a group of blinds is installed at the top frame. Each group of blinds includes a plurality of slats, a linkage strip, and an electric control mechanism, each slat is rotatably installed at the top frame, and each slat is directly hinged to the linkage strip or hinged to the linkage strip through a fixing member fixed at the slat. The electric control mechanism is used to drive at least one linkage strip to move thus to control opening and closing of the slats. This invention can drive the linkage strip to move through the electric control mechanism, thereby controlling the opening and closing of slats corresponding to blinds, and operation is convenient and reliable compared to the operation mode of rolling a rolling rod in the prior art.”

US Patent no. 9954478 appears to disclose, “Systems and methods for disposing and supporting a solar panel array are disclosed. The embodiments comprise various combinations of cables, support columns, and pod constructions in which to support solar panels. Special installations of the system can include systems mounted over structures such as parking lots, roads, aqueducts, and other bodies of water. Simplified support systems with a minimum number of structural elements can be used to create effective support for solar panel arrays of varying size and shapes. These simplified systems minimize material requirements and labor for installation of the systems.”

US Patent no. 8875450 appears to disclose, “Systems and methods for supporting a solar panel array are disclosed, with embodiments specifically directed to spanning bodies of water such as aqueducts, canals, or other waterways. Cable truss assemblies are used to support panel receivers and solar panels mounted over the panel receivers. The cable truss assemblies are supported on groups of columns or other vertically extending support members anchored in the ground. Cable anchor lines may supplement anchoring and support of the installed solar panel array. Embodiments of the system include various combinations of supporting cables making up the cable truss assemblies. A method is also provided for construction of the solar panel array. Lengthy and continuous spans of the solar panel array can be installed over waterways by use of the cable truss assemblies. The solar panel arrays produce power, and simultaneously reduce evaporation from the waterways, resulting in conservation of water.”

US Patent no. 10920487 appears to disclose, “A self-powered dynamic photovoltaic sunshade system having sunshades constructed of lightweight ETFE panels covered with at least one thin fdm of photovoltaic cells. The sunshades track the sun by light detectors, and move against the sun from east to west to block direct rays. The ETFE fabric is stretched on a lightweight frame, which rotates vertically around its axis as a pivotal panel for maximum solar protection. Sunshades rotate to face the sun by day, and reset to a starting position at night. Each sunshade is rotated by a stepped electric motor, powered by thin fdm(s) of solar photovoltaic cells. Sunshades are suspended between an electric motor shaft and a lower hinge. The sunshades are designed to provide sustainable dynamic shading for building facades exposed to different sun angles, are self-powered, and can generate electric power for other building functions, such as lighting and fan ventilation inside a building.”

US Patent no. 4782761 appears to disclose, “A cable tensioning device for ski lifts or aerial cableways of the kind comprising an endless transporting cable (1) extending between two rotatable wheels (2) mounted on carriers (4), at least one of the wheels being movable by the fact that its associated carrier is slidably movable relative to a foundation in order to keep the cable tensioned. The carrier (4) is by means of a nut device connected to a suitably rotatable screw (13). A tension sensing device is associated to a power source (19) for causing a rotating relative movement between the screw (13) and the nut device in order to, at an occurred change in the tension of the cable (1), start the power source (15) and effect a movement of the wheel (2) in question a distance relative to the foundation that corresponds to the actual tensional change.”

US Patent no. 4782761 appears to disclose, “A cable tensioning apparatus and method for automatically maintaining and adjusting the tension forces in an endless cable for a ski lift, aerial tramway, etc. is disclosed. The apparatus includes a carriage on which the cable is carried, a pneumatic carriage displacement apparatus in the form of a piston and cylinder, a source of gas under pressure, and a regulator and relief valve connected to establish and maintain a pressure within the cylinder which falls between predetermined minimum and maximum pressures. As the aerial tramway is subject to passenger or cargo loading and ambient conditions which change the tension forces, the pressure in the pneumatic cylinder will vary within the preselected range, and upon a change in the tension force beyond the range, gas is automatically exhausted from or inteqected into the pneumatic cylinder to maintain tension forces within the preselected range.”

Additional art includes US Patent Application Publication no. 20110197418 and International Published Application no. W02020017753.

Therefore, there is a need for a solar photovoltaic power plant allowing dual use for a land area.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a solar power harvesting system including: a flexible solar array including a cable-based lattice and a plurality of solar panels attached thereto and at least partially elevated above a ground surface; a conveyer configured fortransporting the flexible solar array such that a portion of the plurality of solar panels moves back and forth between a predetermined maintenance area and a predetermined power generating position.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the conveyer includes a cable guide guiding a guide cable to perform the transporting.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the conveyer includes a small diameter drive wheel driving the guide cable and wherein the cable guide includes a rotating large diameter component directing movement the flexible solar array around a change in direction.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the cable guide includes a channel wherein the guide cable passes through an internal space of the channel and a portion of the cable-based lattice passes through a side slit of the channel.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the cable guide includes series of rings wherein the guide cable passes through an internal space of the rings and a portion of the cable-based lattice passes through an opening in each of the rings.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the large diameter component includes protruding teeth. According to some embodiments of the invention, the conveyer includes two guide cables attached to opposing sides of the flexible solar array and a respective cable guide for guiding each guide cable.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the flexible solar array has a form of a belt.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the belt includes a continuous belt.

According to some embodiments of the invention, a portion of the plurality of panels is configured for tilting including an angle adjusted apparatus to control an angle of the tilting.

According to some embodiments of the invention, an angle adjusting apparatus including a tension controlling device to control an angle of the tilting.

According to some embodiments of the invention, a panel of the plurality of panels is attached to the cable-based lattice on a first edge and free to move at a second edge and wherein the angle adjusting apparatus controls a position of the free edge.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar power harvesting system further includes a coupler connecting the second edge of multiple panels and constraining the second edge of the multiple panels to move together.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the flexible solar array is supported by a plurality of suspenders of differing lengths.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar power harvesting system further includes a rigid support under a panel in the maintenance area.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar power harvesting system further includes a mid-grid support passing across a width of the cable-based lattice and supporting a cross section of the grid.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the maintenance area is elevated above the ground surface.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar power harvesting system further includes a panel cleaning apparatus.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar power harvesting system further includes another renewable energy harvesting device.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar power harvesting system further includes a wind blocking device. According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar power harvesting system further includes a tensioning device configured to increase and decries tension in at least one cable in the flexible cable-based solar array.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a solar power harvesting system including: a flexible solar array including a cable-based lattice and a plurality of solar panels attached thereto and at least partially floating on a body of water; a conveyer configured for transporting the flexible solar array such that a portion of the plurality of solar panels moves back and forth between a predetermined maintenance area and a predetermined power generating position.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a method of solar power harvesting including: Suspending a flexible solar array on a guide cable above an object; Conveying the guide cable via a pulley on a small diameter drive wheel thereby moving the flexible solar array while directing movement of the flexible solar array around a change of direction with a rotating large diameter component thereby transporting a portion of the array between a maintenance area and a power generating position.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a suspended solar power array including: a support configured to move along a predetermined path; a solar panel suspended on the support; a guide cable coupled to the support such that longitudinal movement of the guide cable moves the support along a predetermined path; a guide wheel under the guide cable supporting the guide cable, the guide wheel having a concave outer surface configured to hold the guide cable.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar power array further includes: an upper guide above the guide cable wherein the guiding cable passes longitudinally the guide wheel and the upper guide.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the upper guide is positioned close enough to the guide wheel such that a gap between an outer edge of the concave outer surface and the upper guide is less than a diameter of the guide cable preventing the guide cable from passing through the gap.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the support of the solar panel is configured to pass through the gap and passes through the gap as the support moves along the predetermined path.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the guide wheel and the upper guide include a pair of guide wheels. According to some embodiments of the invention, the pair of guide wheels are held aligned in a bracket with a precise fixed spacing.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the predetermined path includes a maintenance area and a predetermined power generating position.

According to some embodiments of the invention, a minimum gap between the upper guide and the guide wheel is greater than a diameter of the guide cable.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the guide wheel and the upper guide are distributed longitudinally along the guide cable and wherein the minimum gap is greater than 10 times the diameter of the guide cable.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the upper guide includes a second guide wheel.

According to some embodiments of the invention, guide wheel is connected to an anchoring point and the solar power array is configured to move without disconnecting the guide wheel from the anchoring point.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the support includes a support cable and the suspended solar power array is configured to move without losing tension in the support cable.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar panel includes a plurality of solar panels and is configured to move without affecting spread configuration of the plurality of solar panels.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the support is suspended between the guide cable and the second guide cable.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the guide cable is flexible.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the guide cable is configured to pass over a fixed concave surface.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the guiding cable is configured to pass over a concave surface with bearings.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a suspended solar power array including: a support configured to move along a predetermined path; a solar panel suspended on the support; a track; a guide wheel coupled to the support and running along the track such that movement of the guide wheel along the track moves the support along a predetermined path.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the support includes a truss. According to some embodiments of the invention, the truss supports one or more solar panels and is configured to be transported by a guide cable.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the guide wheel moves inside a hollow portion of the track and wherein the support passes through gap and wherein the gap in the hollow portion is larger than a width of the support and smaller than a width of the guide cable.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the array further includes a second guide wheel and a second track and wherein the support is stiff and positioned between the guide wheel and the second guide wheel and wherein a stiffness of the support prevents the guide wheel from approaching the second guide wheel and retrains the guide wheel and the second guide wheel on the track and the second track.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a method for maintenance of a solar power array including: supplying an array of solar panels attached to a mobile support; suspending the mobile support on a guide cable; supporting the guide cable on concave surface of a wheel with a moving the array of solar panels from a predetermined power generating position to a predetermined maintenance area by pulling the guide cable to move by rolling the wheel.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes maintaining the guide cable inside the concave surface by limited upward movement of the guide cable with an upper guide.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a method for maintenance of a solar power array including: supplying an array of solar panels attached to a rigid mobile support; suspending the mobile support on pair a first wheel and a second wheel; supporting the first wheel on a first track and the second wheel on a second track; moving the array of solar panels from a predetermined power generating position to a predetermined maintenance area by rolling the first wheel along the first track and rolling the second wheel along the second track; retaining the first wheel on the first track and the second wheel on the second track by preserving a fixed geometric relationship between the first wheel and second wheel by means of the rigid support, retaining said first wheel on said first track and said second wheel on said second track by preserving a fixed geometric relationship between said first wheel and second wheel by means of said rigid support.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and/or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

Implementation of the method and/or system of embodiments of the invention can involve performing or completing selected tasks manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of embodiments of the method and/or system of the invention, several selected tasks may be implemented by hardware, by software or by firmware or by a combination thereof using an operating system.

For example, hardware for performing selected tasks according to embodiments of the invention may be implemented as a chip or a circuit. As software, selected tasks according to embodiments of the invention may be implemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, one or more tasks according to exemplary embodiments of method and/or system as described herein are performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform for executing a plurality of instructions. Optionally, the data processor includes a volatile memory for storing instructions and/or data and/or a non-volatile storage, for example, a magnetic harddisk and/or removable media, for storing instructions and/or data. Optionally, a network connection is provided as well. A display and/or a user input device such as a keyboard or mouse are optionally, provided as well.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGIS)

Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

In the drawings: FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a cable-based grid 103, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a cable-based grid including a rotating axel type of coupling, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of an apparatus 308 designed to adjust an angle of a solar panel 101, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIGs. 4A and 4B are schematic side and rearviews of a conveying apparatuses, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 4C is schematic side view of a conveying apparatuses, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustrating of conveying apparatuses being used to roll a cable-based grid around a direction change, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIGs. 6A and 6B are schematic side and rearviews of a conveying apparatuses, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 7 is a schematic rear view of conveying apparatuses being used to roll a cable-based grid around a direction change, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 8 is a schematic illustrating of a conveying apparatuses being used to convey cable-based grid, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional illustration of a guiding apparatus with an internal channel and a side slit, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 10A is a schematic cross-sectional illustration of a guiding apparatus with a guide including an open ring, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 1 OB is a schematic perspective illustration of a guiding apparatus with a guide including a series of open rings, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional axial view illustration of a guiding apparatus with a guiding cable passing between two pairs of guide wheels and/or curved guides with a gap for the cables of the grid to passes freely at an angle out of the space between the guide wheels and/or curved guides, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention; FIG. 12A is a schematic cross-sectional axial view illustration of a guiding apparatus with a track along which solar panels move in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 12B is a schematic cross-sectional axial view illustration of a guiding apparatus with a track along which solar panels move in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 12C is a schematic cross-sectional axial view illustration of a guiding apparatus with a track along which solar panels move in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 13A is a schematic longitudinal view illustration of a guiding apparatus with a guiding cable passing along pairs of guide wheels and/or curved guides, optionally, the curved guides are on opposite sides of the guide cable aligned with each other, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 13B is a schematic longitudinal view illustration of a guiding apparatus with a guiding cable passing between guide wheels and/or curved guides, wherein the guides are on opposite sides of the guiding cable and linearly spaced apart, in accordance with an embodiment, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 13C is a schematic longitudinal view illustration of a guiding apparatus with a guiding cable passing between curved guides, wherein the curved guides are on opposite sides of the guide spaced apart and staggered such that the cable zigzags between curved guides, in accordance with an embodiment, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a dynamic tension creating device maintaining tension on a lattice of cables, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

Fig. 15 is a side view of a conveying apparatus having a complex path for guiding a guiding cable to drive a cable-based grid along the path in a solar power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration of a dynamic cable length controlling device, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 17A is a view of a mobile cable-based power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention; FIG. 17B is a close-up view of the exemplary conveying system of the embodiment of FIG. 14A;

FIG. 18 is a view of a mobile cable-based power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 19 is a view of a mobile cable-based power array passing over a roadway, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 20A is a perspective view of a mobile cable-based power with panels tilted, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIGs. 20B and C are a schematic perspective and orthographic views of a mobile cable-based power with panels tilting system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 21 is a block diagram of a mobile power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 22 is a schematic illustration of a mobile cable-based power array with an elevated maintenance area, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 23 is a flow chart illustration of use of a mobile solar power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 24A is a schematic illustration of a mid-grid support for a mobile cablebased power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 24B is a schematic illustration of a mobile cable-based power array including a mid-grid support, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 25 is a schematic illustration of a suspension cable support for a mobile cable-based vertical power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 26A and 26B are schematic illustrations of an overwater mobile cablebased power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 27 is a block diagram of a solar power harvesting system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention; and

FIG. 28 is a flow chart illustrating a solar power harvesting system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION The present invention in some embodiments thereof relates to a dynamic cable supported solar panel array and more particularly but not exclusively to an easy maintenance cable supported array supplying electric power.

According to some embodiments, cable-based solar power arrays may be elevated to be suspended above ground level. In some embodiments, this property of the system may facilitate the use of the ground beneath the solar power array for other purposes. For example, a power generating position of a solar generator may be elevated off an object (e.g., the ground and/or a body of water and/or over a building and/or over a street and/or over an outdoor recreation area). For example, the power generating position of the solar generator may be elevated over an object between 1 to 2 m, and/or between 2 to 10 m, and/or between 10 to 30 m, and/or more than 30 m.

A significant challenge to deploying cable-based solar power arrays is how to facilitate practical and cost-effective maintenance of a suspended array. Especially when the array is suspended high above the ground and/or water. For example, maintenance of solar panels may include, for example, cleaning the panels. In some embodiments, frequent cleaning may reduce loss of solar power harvesting efficiency.

Some embodiments of the present invention may include a solution to such problems. For example, the system may include a conveyer sub-system that may enable the gradual lowering of parts of the solar power arrays. For example, components may be moved to a maintenance area (e.g., lowered to a ground-based maintenance location and/or moved to a suspended maintenance area). Optionally, the components may be moved one part after the other, and/or row by row, for maintenance. Optionally, an entire cable-based network of solar panels may move together. Optionally, each row may pass to the maintenance region in turn. Optionally, at the end of the maintenance process the conveyer may reinstate the cable-based solar power array back to its previous position above the ground. Optionally, repositioning and/or maintenance may be achieved without disconnecting the cable-based grid from its anchoring points, and/or without losing tension in the grid, and/or affecting the spread configuration of said cable-based grid above the ground.

All the descriptions and examples in this document, (in any part and/or all the document parts) are added to this document in order to help a man skilled in the art to understand and build said devices and apparatuses and to use an embodiment of said devices and methods and are not intended to point out a preferred embodiment or preferred uses of said devices and apparatuses. Overview

As used herein, the phrase “solar panel” may relate to a panel that converts solar energy into usable power, for example electric power. Optionally, a solar panel may be from one of types known. Non-limiting examples of a solar panel include: flexible solar photovoltaic panels, rigid solar photovoltaic panel, silicon chip-based panels, two-sided solar panel that can harvest solar energy also coming from its back side, and/or other solar panels types.

As used herein, the term “cable” may relate to a flexible elongated element. Optionally, the cable may be from one of the types and materials known. Non-limiting examples of cables are: a wire, a rope, a cable, a chain, a bicycle type Vertebral chain and driving sprocket. Optionally, cable materials may include metallic and/or nonmetallic materials. Non-limiting examples for cable materials include: steel, polymeric materials, Kevlar, and/or other materials.

As used herein, the phrase "cable-based grid" may relate to a lattice (for example, resembling a net in its structure) made entirely or mostly of cables. The elements of the grid are not necessarily regular and/or not necessarily parallel and/or perpendicular to one another.

The terms “cable-based grid” and “cable-based lattice” may be used here interchangeably. Optionally, a cable-based grid may include a plurality of net holes in its structure. In some embodiments, of a cable-based grid, some or all of the holes in the net-like structure are smaller than the solar panel coupled thereto. In some embodiments, some or all of the holes in a cable-based grid may be small, e.g., the net may be considered a fabric. In some embodiments of the cable-based grid some or all of the holes in the cable-based grid may be larger than a solar panel coupled thereto. For example, a plurality of solar panel may fit within one net hole. In some embodiments, the lattice may be made up of perpendicular sets of parallel cables. Alternatively, or additionally, the lattice may include many angles and/or patterns and/or designs. The cables may be regularly spaced and/or irregularly spaced.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a solar panel may be made of and/or mounted on a light weight and/or shock absorbing material. Non-limiting examples of such a material include: a porous material, a fabric, a soft polymer, etc. As used herein, the phrase "solar panel coupling device" may relate to a coupling device. For example, the term may include one of the types of coupling device known in previous knowledge. Non-limiting examples of a coupling device are: a string, a rope, a cable, screw a coupling ring, a chain, an elastic band, a spring. A coupling device may be capable of coupling a solar panel to a cable-based grid.

As used herein, the phrase "electricity collecting grid" may relate to a network capable of collecting and convoying the electrical power generated by a plurality of solar panels. The network may be from one of the types known in previous knowledge that may be coupled to a cable-based grid.

As used herein, the phrase "dynamic cable length controlling device" may include a device added to an electricity collecting grid to facilitate connection to an external cable conveying electricity outside the system. The dynamic cable length controlling device may facilitate the connection having an adjustable length and/or to adjust to the position of the grid as it moves up and/or down without the connection being damaged or tom. Non-limiting examples of a dynamic cable length controlling device include: apparatuses used in garden hose, and/or apparatuses used in cranes, and/or other systems and methods.

As used herein, the phrase "anchoring point" may relate to an anchoring device. Non-limiting examples of an anchoring device are: a pole, a pillar, a building, a cliff, an antenna, a man-made structure, a floating anchor, a Marine anchor, the ground itself, and other anchor points.

As used herein, the phrase "guiding cable" may relate to one or a set of cables (e.g., two cables coupled to the opposite sides of a cable-based grid) that may be used to guide a portion of the cable-based grid as it is conveyed. Optionally, multiple guiding cables may move simultaneously and/or in a synchronized fashion. For example, various portions of the cable-based grid may be conveyed simultaneously along an area of solar collection and/or over a change in direction and/or downwards and/or upwards (for example with the help of a lowering and/or lifting apparatus for example, as illustrated in FIG. 12). Optionally, the entire grid may move as a unit, and/or a portion of the cable-based grid may be conveyed from its anchoring points, and/or along an area of solar collection, and/or over a change in direction, and/or downwards, and/or upwards without necessarily losing tension in the grid or affecting the spread configuration of the cable-based grid. Optionally, the cable-based grid may remain above the ground as it is conveyed. In some embodiments, a guiding cable may include an elongated cable along an edge of the cable-based grid and/or cables along both opposite sides of the cable-based grid. Optionally, guiding cables are located opposite sides of the flexible wired grid. The guiding cables may move the grid forward, and/or backward, and/or upwards, and/or downwards without creating an obstruction to the horizontal cables in the structure of the cable-based grid. For example, movement of the grid may case some solar panels to move back and forth between a maintenance area and a solar exposure area.

In some embodiments, synchronization is carried out, for example, two or more motors may operate at the same time with the help of a synchronization component to drive the wheels and/or the cable itself. Alternatively, or additionally, one engine may drive more than one wheel, for example, with the help of a connecting rod between the wheels.

In some embodiments, one motor may include a relay and/or transmission that may facilitate using one motor move one or more wheels and/or drive different wheels simultaneously and/or alternately.

In some embodiments, one or more motors may be detached from the system to carry out the propulsion operation from more than one location and/or to more than one solar panel system.

As used herein, the phrase an "apparatus designed to reduce or increase the wind obstruction created by an embodiment of said solar panel" may relate to a coupling apparatus enabling a reduction in the wind obstruction resulting from an embodiment of a solar panel. Any kind of apparatus may be used to change the wind obstruction of a panel. Two exemplary categories of apparatuses and methods that reduces an objects obstruction to the wind include: passive devices and active devices.

In some embodiments, a passive device may use the wind's own force to reduce the objects obstruction to the wind. Non-limiting examples for passive devices include:

Example number 1 - A solar panel (e.g., to a cable -based grid) may be coupled from a first edge thereof (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 1) while the opposing edge may be configured to move (the opposing edge may have total freedom of movement or partial freedom of movement). In some embodiments gravity may cause the panel to rotate around the first edge and/or for the opposing edge to rotate downward. An increase in wind pressure may then lift the lower part of said solar panel upwards, (e.g., resembling the way laundry hangs from a laundry cable above it and is left to swing in the wind). Example number 2 - A solar panel may be coupled to a cable-based grid with a rotating axel type of coupling (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 2). Optionally, an increase in wind pressure may rotate the solar panel to reduce its wind obstruction properties (in a similar way to the movement of a weathervane in the wind).

Example number 3 - A solar panel may be coupled to a cable-based grid with an elastic component that may expand and/or extend when wind pressure increases (non-limiting examples are: a rubber band, a spring, and other elastic connecting objects).

The second category is: active devices that have their own power source (from one of the types of power sources known in previous knowledge, non -limiting examples of power sources are: an electric motor, a fuel-based engine, manpower, etc.). Optionally, the power source may provide the power to react to information coming from a sensor (non-limiting examples are: sensors gathering information about wind speed, the direction of the wind, the tension in a cable, etc.) and said active devices based on said information may modify the angle of the wind obstruction caused by the solar panel.

Non-limiting examples of active devices to reduce wind obstruction of a solar panel include:

Example number 1 - An active wind obstruction reducing device may include a tension controlling device (e.g., a tensioning cable such as illustrated by cable, (20) of fig. 3). For example, the tension cable may couple a solar panel to a cable-based grid in a manner that tightening the tensioning cable may determine the degree of freedom of movement of a solar panel. For example, as the tensioning cable is loosened, more freedom of movement may be granted to the portion of the solar panel. For example, as the tensioning cable is tightened the degree of freedom of the free end of the solar panel may be reduced (e.g., similar to a shoelace, such as illustrated in FIG. 3). In some embodiments, a tensioning cable may be used to control an angle of the solar panel to the sun. For example, when the sun is at a low angle, the solar panel may be tilted towards the sun, for example, by reducing tension of the tensioning cable and/or allowing the free end of the panel to drop under gravity. Optionally, the free end of multiple panels may be interconnected (for example by a bar and/or cables e.g., such that rotation of the panels may be synchronized). In some embodiments, a weight may be added to the free end of a panel. For example, the weight may dampen flutter of the panel in the wind and/or maintain the panel at a selected angle towards the sun. Optionally, a tilting system may fix and/or control the angle of the panel.

Example number 2 - A surface reducing apparatus may be coupled to a solar panel and/or react to information about the wind to reduce and/or increase exposure of the surface of said solar panel to wind. For example, a processor may receive information on wind speed and/or direction and/or adjust an angle of a panel (e.g., with angling mechanisms, as described herein and/or other mechanisms). Non-limiting examples of a system that fix an angle of a panel and/or a method do so include: surface reducing systems and methods similar to those used in window blinds and/or garage doors and/or motorized sun-trackers for solar panels and/or other types of trackers and/or actuators. The angling of panels may be connected to movement of the cablebased grid and/or independent of the position of the grid.

As used herein, the phrase “conveying apparatuses” may relate to an apparatus that may be designed to drive and/or to guide a cable-based grid. For example, conveying apparatus may drive and/or guide a guiding cable along a predetermined path. Optionally, the structure of the conveying apparatus may facilitate objects coupled to the guiding cable to move in the same direction as the guiding cable, without creating an obstruction. Optionally, a conveying apparatus may include a cable pulley.

In some embodiments of the present invention may include a plurality of motors coupled to a cable-based grid. Optionally, the movement of the motors may be synchronized by a synchronization device.

In some embodiments, a conveying apparatus may include a cable guide. A “cable guide” as used herein may relate to a device coupled to a guiding cable in a way that leads to movement of the cable in a desired path without obstructing the movement of other parts of the cable-based grid. For example, the cable guide may guide a guide cable and/or the cable-based grid may move in the same direction as the guiding cable. For example, a cable guide may include a guide wheel, a guide sprocket, a guide channel and/or a set of guide rings. In some embodiments of the present invention a cable guide may be used to generate a complex movement path of an embodiment of a cable-based grid

In some embodiments, conveying apparatuses may use different methodologies to move a cable (whereas the cable may be coupled to other objects) in one direction without obstructing the objects coupled to the cable to move in the same and/or a different direction. For example, a conveying apparatus may include different sized drive wheels to collect up the guide cable and/to guide the guide cable as the cable traverses different radius curvature bends, a conveying apparatus may include different sized drive wheels, and/or gears to collect up, and/or drive the guide cable, and/or to drive, and/or guide the wire based grid as the cable, and/or grid traverse different radius curvature bends, and/or the conveying apparatus may use a guide channel confining, and/or limiting movement of one or both of the guide cable, and/or the cable-based grid. Optionally, the channel may include a mechanism (for example, a slit) that allows some cables (for example, cables coupled to the guiding cable) freedom to move in and out of the channel.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a vibration canceling device may be integrated as a component in the solar panel array and/or the cable-based grid and/or the conveying apparatus.

In some embodiments of the present invention, an electricity storage device may be integrated as a component in the system.

In some embodiments, a suspended and/or cable-based solar array may include a safety device. For example, the safety device may inhibit collateral damage from broken and/or disconnected components of the support structure and/or cables. Nonlimiting examples of safety devices include: failsafe cords coupled to an element in the solar panel array (for example, to prevent the array and/or parts thereof from falling down in case of detachment) and/or nets integrated into the system in a manner that may intercept falling parts of the system that may become detached and/or other safety devices.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the drawings and/or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

Reference is now made to the figures.

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a cable-based grid 103, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, one or more solar panels are attached to a lattice of cables 102. Optionally, the lattice includes a grid (e.g., resembling a net in its structure made entirely or mostly of cables 102 and has a plurality of net holes in its structure). In some embodiments, the holes in the net-like structure are larger than the solar panels 101 coupled to it. Optionally, one or a plurality of solar panels may fit within one net hole. Alternatively, or additionally, the holes in the net- like structure are smaller than the solar panels coupled to it. Alternatively, or additionally, the holes in the net-like structure are small e.g., the net may be considered a fabric.

In some embodiments, a system includes cables 102 and/or couplings 104 (e.g., a solar panel coupling device) couple a solar panel 101 to the cable-based grid 103 include electrically conductive cable and/or power converters. Electrical power is optionally conducted from the solar panels 101 to an electricity collecting grid, for example, including a grid capable of collecting and convoying the electrical power generated by a plurality of solar panels 101. Optionally, the electricity collecting grid includes one or more power converters.

In some embodiments, a cable-based grid 103 is connected to a set of guiding cables 107. For example, two guiding cables 107 are coupled to the opposite sides of cable-based grid 103, and are used simultaneously guide and/or convey the cable-based grid 103 along a predetermined path. Optionally, the guide cables 107 are pulled longitudinally (along their axis) moving the entire grid 103.

In some embodiments, a portion of the solar panels may be free to move (e.g., by force of wind and/or gravity). For example, a first (upper) side of a solar panels 101 may be coupled by coupling 104 to cables 102 of the cable-based grid 103. Optionally, the opposing side (lower part), of the solar panels 101 are free to move with the wind and/or gravity.

In some embodiments, the changing angle of solar panels may serve as a passive wind blocking apparatus. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, a solar panel 101 may be coupled to a cable-based grid 103 from one edge while a second edge may not be restricted in its movements (the second edge may have total freedom of movement or partial freedom of movement). For example, an increase in wind pressure may lift the second edge of the solar panel upwards (e.g., similar to the way laundry hangs from a laundry cable and/or swings in the wind). An example of such a configuration is illustrated in FIG. 1. For example, panels 101 are connected on one side to a supporting cable 102 by couplings 104. The opposite side of the panels is free and may hang down under gravity and/or be blown up and down by the wind. FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a cable-based grid 203 including a rotating axel type of coupling 219, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

In some embodiments, a cable-based grid 103 is coupled to anchor points in a manner that elevates the flexible wired grid 103 above the ground level and/or water surface in a configuration that may be, for example, horizontal, and/or vertical, and/or arched, and/or sloping.

In some embodiments, a solar panel is coupled a cable-based grid 103 with a solar panel coupling device.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the net holes in the cable-based grid are larger than the size of the solar panel 101. For example, the solar panel 101 is coupled to the cable-based grid 103 inside a net hole that is larger than the panel 101 and/or the cables 102 creating the net hole totally and/or mostly do not obstruct movements of the solar panel 101.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the net holes in the cable-based grid are smaller than the size of the solar panel and/or the solar panel is coupled to the cable-based grid lying on top of the cable-based grid and/or under it.

An exemplary passive wind apparatus to reduce wind resistance of solar panels is illustrated in FIG. 2, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, a solar panel 101 is attached to a cable-based grid 103 with a rotating axel type of coupling 219. Optionally, an increase in wind pressure may rotate the solar panel 101 to reduce its wind obstruction properties (e.g., in a similar manner to the movement of a weathervane in the wind).

In some embodiments, an active device includes an actuator (non-limiting examples of actuators are: an electric motor, a fuel-based engine, man power, etc.). Optionally, the power source reacts to information coming from a sensor (non-limiting examples of sensors include: various sensorthat gather information about wind speed, the direction of the wind, the tension in a cable, etc.) and/or the active device reacts to information from the sensor to modify the orientation of the solar panel to the wind and/or the position of the solar panel e.g., to modify the angle of the wind obstruction caused by the solar panel.

FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of an apparatus 308 designed to adjust an angle of a solar panel 101, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, adjusting the angle may reduce and/or increase the wind obstruction caused by solar panel 101 in a cable-based grid 303. Some embodiments of an angle adjusting apparatus 308 include an active type adjustment. For example, apparatus 308 includes a tension controlling device for example, tightening cable 320.

An example of an active device to reduce wind obstruction is illustrated in FIG. 3, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. An active device to reduce wind obstruction may include a tightening cable 320 that couples a free edge of solar panel 101 to a cable-based grid 103 in a manner that the slack on cable 320 determines the degree of freedom of movement of a free edge of the solar panel 101. When the slack on the cable 320 is increased (e.g., by increasing length of the cable 320), more freedom of movement is granted to the free edge of the panel 101. When slack on the cable 320 is reduced (e.g., by shortening the cable 320) the tighter cable becomes (e.g., less slack) the tension on the cable becomes stronger and/or the degree of freedom to the free end of the solar panel 101 is reduced. For example, this is similar to a shoelace, and/or similar to how shoe laces work.

A second example of an active device to reduce wind obstruction may reduce and/or increase the exposed surface of a solar panel in response to a sensor (for example, sensing wind speed and/or direction). Non-limiting examples for such a device and/or a method are: the surface reducing systems and methods used in window blinds (e.g., stacking panels together to reduce exposed area), and/or garage doors (e.g., moving panels to a shielded position). Other surface reducing systems and methods may be used.

FIGs. 4A and 4B are schematic side and rear views of a cable guide 409, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. FIG. 4C is a schematic side view of a cable guide 409 and a tensioning device 413, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, a conveying apparatus may include a conveying reel 417 and a rotating curve guide 418. For example, the conveying reel 417 may drive a guide cable, while the rotating curve guide 418 defines a curve over which the cable conveys a flexible solar array.

In some embodiments, cable guide 409 may be mounted on tensioning device 413. For example, the cable guide 409 may include an actuator (e.g., a pneumatic piston 414) that pulls on the cable guide 409 and/or a cable. For example, cable guide 409 may be mounted to an anchor point 406, an arm 436, and/or a pivot 437. Optionally, cable guide 409 is attached to arm 436 via a bearing 438. Optionally, pivot 437 may be configured to facilitate adjustment of the angle of arm 436 relative to anchor point 406. FIG. 5 is a schematic illustrating of cable guide 409 being used to roll a cablebased grid 503 (e.g., similar to grid 103) of cables 502 forward and/or backward around a direction change without losing the tension in the cable-based grid, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, the cable-based grid 503 and/or guiding cable 507 are conveyed in a manner similar to a conveyer belt and/or a cable of a cable car and/or ski lift. Optionally, various geometry drivers (e.g., components, take-up reels and guides) may be used for various portions of a guide cable and/or cable -based grid to drive the cable and/or grid over different radius direction changes while preserving tension on the cables.

In some embodiments, a cable guide 409 includes components to drive panels 101 along a path that has significantly different diameters of curvature in deferent areas of its structure. In some embodiments, the cable guide 409 drives the guiding cable 507. Optionally, the guiding cable 507 is coupled to the device in a tight fit around a component with a smaller diameter conveying reel 417 while other parts of the cablebased grid 503 move in the same direction around a portion of a path with a larger radius of curvature e.g., are wrapped around a larger diameter wheel curve guide 418 of the cable guide 409. Optionally, the tight fit of the guiding cable 507 inhibits the guiding cable 507 from sliding off the small diameter conveying reel 417 despite the pulling force generated by movement of the cable-based grid 503 around curves with different radii of curvature.

In some embodiments, the tension in the cable-based grid 503 is maintained consistent by using two of cable guide 409 each at the opposite sides of the cable-based grid 503. Optionally, the cable guide 409 is configured in a manner that the component with the smaller diameter conveying reel 417 is facing away from the cable-based grid 503 and as the two guiding cables 507 on opposite sides of the cable-based grid 503 are guided tightly around them. Optionally, grid 503 itself is stretched between the two guiding cables and around the rotating curve guide 418 with a larger dimeter in the cable guide 409.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are schematic side and rear views of a cable guide 609, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, a cable guide 609 that has a small diameter component conveying reel 617 having a structure configured to drive and/or reel up a guiding cable 507. Additionally, or alternatively, cable guide 609 has a large diameter guide sprocket 618 having a structure configured to drive the cable-based grid 503. For example, the component may include a plurality of protruding teeth 624 around it.

FIG. 7 is a schematic rear view of cable guide 609 being used to roll a cablebased grid (e.g., similar to grid 503) around a direction change without losing the tension in the cable-based grid, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

In some embodiments, a cable guide 609 that has a small diameter component conveying reel 617 having a structure configured to drive and/or reel up a guiding cable 507. Additionally, or alternatively, cable guide 609 has a large diameter guide sprocket 618 having a structure configured to drive the cable-based grid 503. For example, the component may include a plurality of protruding teeth 624 around it. Optionally, guiding cable 507 is coupled to the small diameter conveying reel 617. Optionally, the cable-based grids connect around the guide sprocket 618 in a manner that directs it to move around it and the horizontal cables 502 of the cable-based grid 503 are integrated between the protruding teeth 624 as they move in the same direction, and the tension in the cable-based grid 503 is kept by using the cable guide 609 with protruding teeth 624 each at the opposite sides of the cable-based grid 503. Optionally, conveying apparatus is configured in a manner that the smaller diameter reel 617 is facing away from the cable-based grid 507 and the guiding cables 507 at the opposite sides of the cable-based grid 503 are guided tightly around them. Additionally, or alternatively, the horizontal cables in the cable-based grid 503 is driven interwoven between the protruding teeth 624.

FIG. 8 is a schematic illustrating of a sprocketed cable guide 809 being used to convey cable-based grid 803, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, conveying apparatuses includes a sprocketed cable guide 809 e.g., resembling a bicycle chain and/or transmission and/or may be used to convey a cable-based grid (e.g., grid 803) without losing the tension in the cable-based grid. Optionally, a guiding cable 807 includes a chain driven by sprocketed cable guide 809.

In some embodiments, a conveying apparatus may drive a chain 807 (e.g., similar to a bicycle chain) and a rotating sprocketed cable guide 809 with protruding teeth (e.g., similar to the one in bicycle gear).

FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional illustration of a cable guide channel 909 with an internal channel (e.g., channel 925) and a side slit 926, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, cable guide channel 909 may be used to guide a cable-based grid (e.g., grid 803) as it is conveyed without losing the tension in the cable -based grid.

In some embodiments, the cable guide channel 909 constrains guiding cable 907 to follow the shape of its internal channel. For example, when cable guiding channel 909 is shaped like the letter "U" pulling the guiding cable 907 longitudinally (e.g., along its axis) causes the guiding cable 907 to slide along inside channel 925 and/or to make a U-turn as it is conveyed along the channel. In the exemplary embodiment, guiding cable 907 is thicker than cables 902 of cable-based grid 903 such that guiding cable 907 does not pass through slit 926 and remains inside the channel of the guide, while cable

902 passing through slit 926 and holds cable 907 to the grid.

In some embodiments, a cable guide channel 909 includes an internal channel 925. Optionally, the cavity includes a side slit 926. For example, a guiding cable 907 moves inside channel 925 while the other parts (e.g., cables 902) of cable-based grid

903 are coupled to guiding cable 907 and moving in the same direction as the guiding cable 907. Optionally, the side slit 926 is narrower than the dimeter of guiding cable 907 such that guiding cable 907 is retained within channel 925. Optionally, cables 902 in cable-based grid 903 and/or coupled to guiding cable 907 are narrower than the slit 926 and/or slide freely through slit 926 uninterrupted.

In some embodiments of the present invention a friction reducing device (e.g., bearings are added to a conveying apparatus and/or a cable guide channel 909 in a manner that reduces the friction generated by the movement a guiding cable 907 and/or cable-based grid 903. In some embodiments, a friction reducing device may be positioned inside channel 925 of an embodiment of the cable guide channel 909 and/or in a side slit 926 thereof and/or at the entry or exit point of the guiding apparatus, and/or at the narrow part of the slit, channel and/or a gap in the structure. Non-limiting examples for a friction reducing device include: friction reducing beads (optionally, mounted on the guiding cable 907), a Ball Bearing integrated into the structure of the conveying apparatuses and/or a Conveyor Bearing integrated into the structure of the conveying apparatuses, and/or other types of Bearings.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are a schematic cross-sectional illustration and a schematic perspective illustration of a cable guide including a series of open rings, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, a cable guide 1009 which is channeled in a series of internal spaces 1025 formed by a series of spaced apart rings 1008 and/or a synchronized series of aligned gaps 1026 in the rings, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, cable guide 1009 may be used to guide a cable-based grid 1003 (e.g., similar to grid 103) where it is conveyed without losing the tension in the cable-based grid. Optionally, the rings are evenly spaced and/or spaced at regular intervals.

In some embodiments, the cable guide 1009 constrains guiding cable 1007 to follow the series of spaces 1025 of a series of rings 1008. For example, when rings 1008 are deployed like the letter "U," pulling the guide cable 1007 longitudinally (e.g., out of the page) the guiding cable 1007 moves inside the internal spaces 1025 makes a U- tum as it is conveyed along internal spaces 1025. In the exemplary embodiment, guiding cable 1007 is thicker than cables 1002 of cable-based grid 1003, such that guiding cable 1007 does not pass-through gaps 1026 while cable 1002 does. Optionally, cable guide 1009 may be and/or include a friction reducing element 1028 in and/or near the gap 1026. For example, the friction reducing element 1028 may include bearings (e.g., ball bearings, roller bearings etc.) along the edge of gap 1026. The bearings may reduce friction as cables 1002 slide along the gaps 1026.

In some embodiments, an array of a plurality of separate ring-like apparatuses 1008 with a gap 1026 in their structure serve as a guiding apparatus with an internal channel made up of the internal spaces 1025 of the rings 1008. Optionally, guiding cable 1007 moves inside the inner side spaces 1025 of the rings (e.g., which forms a discontinuous channel). Optionally, other parts of cable-based grid 1003 are coupled to guiding cable 1007 and/or moving through a series of gaps 1026 in the structure of the array of rings 1008.

It is understood that a channel (which may be continuous or discontinuous) formed by a line of such rings, conducts guiding cable 1007 to follow along the shape produced by the series of rings. For example, when the series of rings are aligned in in a configuration similar to the letter "U" the guiding cable 1007 moves inside the series of the rings and makes a U-turn or incomplete rotation as it is conveyed.

FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional axial view illustration of a guiding apparatus with a guiding cable 1007 and/or rigid moving guide passing between a pair of guide wheels 1101 in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. Optionally, there is a gap 1026 for the supports 1109 of the grid 1003 to pass at an angle out of the gap 1026 between the wheels 1101. For example, support 1109 passes through gap 1026 between guide wheels 1101. In some embodiments, support 1109 may include a cable and/or connect to a cable-based grid. For example, the cables of grid 1003 may be perpendicular to guide cable 1007. Alternatively, or additionally, support 1109 may connect to a rigid structure, for example a truss. For example, a rigid truss may support one or more solar panels 101 and/or be transported by guide cable 1007.

In some embodiments, guide wheels 1101 have a concave outer surface 1107. For example, the concave surface may hold the guidewire and/or prevent the guidewire from moving perpendicular to the guidewheels and/or facilitate the guide wire 1107 moving longitudinally along its axis (into and/or out of the page). Optionally, the guide cable 1007 is supported by on a lower wheel of guide wheels 1101 and/or the upper wheel is held close to the lower wheel such that the gap 1026 (e.g., in this case the minimal distance between the upper and lower guide wheels 1101) is less than the diameter of the guide cable 1007.

In some embodiments, a pair of guide wheels 1101 are held aligned in bracket 1103 with a precise fixed spacing for holding guide cable 1007 and/or a precise gap for cable of grid 1003. For example, gap 1026 may be larger than the width of support 1109 of grid 1003, but smaller than guide cable 1007. Thus, guide cable 1007 is retained in the space between the guide wheels 1101 while support 1109 passes along and/or through the gap 1026. Optionally, axles 1105 of wheels 1101 are held in bracket 1103. For example, wheels 1101 may rotate around axles 1105 to reduce friction. Optionally, brackets 1103 and/or guide wheels 1101 may be placed along a path of a guide wire as guide for the wire (e.g., similar to rings 1008 of FIG. 10B). Alternatively, or additionally, rather than rotating wheels, the guide includes a fixed concave surface and/or a concave surface with bearings such that the guide cable 1007 runs along inside the concave space.

According to some embodiments, the angle may be between guide cable 1007 and supports 1109 may range between 30 to 90°, and/or between 85 to 90°, and/or between 60 to 85°, and/or between 30 to 60°, and/or between 0 to 30°. Optionally, support 1109 may be perpendicular to guide cable 1007. According to some embodiments, gap 1026 through which support 1109 passes may be between curved guides (e.g., pulleys) and not a side gap in the profile.

According to some embodiments, cable grid 1003 and/or truss may be loaded with solar panels 101. Optionally, cable grid 1007 and/or truss may be stretched between two guide cables and/or guide units on opposite sides. Optionally, guiding cable 1007 may be replaced in part or its entire length by a rigid tube on which the curved guides may run. Optionally, one or more of the cables of the cable grid may be partially or entirely replaced by a rigid component, for example a truss.

FIG. 12A is a schematic cross-sectional axial view illustration of a guiding apparatus with track 1205 along which solar panels 101 move in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, track 1205 may include a guide cable. In some embodiments, track 1205 may be suspended. Alternatively, or additionally, track 1205 may be connected to base 1203 (e.g., a vertical wall) by connector 1201. In some embodiments, track 1205 is grasped between two guide wheels 1101. For example, guide wheels 1101 may have a concave outer surface 1107 and/or track 1205 (e.g., a guide cable) may be grasped in gap 1026 between the surface of two wheels 1101 positioned on opposing sides of the wheels. Optionally, connector 1201 passes through a gap between the drive wheels. Alternatively, or additionally, track 1205 may pass between two curved surface of a guide and/or a guide with bearings. In some embodiments, a cable grid may pass along track 1205. Alternatively, or additionally a stiff support structure 1109 (e.g., a truss supporting solar panels) may pass along the track 1205.

FIG. 12B is a schematic cross-sectional axial view illustration of a guiding apparatus with a track 1205 along which solar panels move in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, rigid support 1109 (e.g., a truss) holds one or more solar panels 101. Support 1109 is optionally connected to rollers which move inside rails. Optionally, wheels 1101 are locked in track 1205. For example, the distance between the rollers on opposite sides of the structure may be fixed at less than the distance between the far sides of the channel between the tracks on opposing sides of the system and greater the distance between gaps 1026 in the channel on the inside. Optionally, the support and/or panels are pulled along the channel by a drive cable and/or have motors to drive wheels inside the channels and/or may be connected to another drive mechanism (e.g., a screw drive, a linear actuator, a magnetic drive, a hydraulic actuator etc.).

FIG. 12C is a schematic cross-sectional axial view illustration of a guiding apparatus with a track 1205 along which solar panels 101 move in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, support 1109 (e.g., a truss or a cable grid) holds one or more solar panels 101. Support 1109 is optionally connected to rollers which move inside rails. Optionally, wheels 1101 are locked in track 1205. For example, track 1205 may include a channel with a gap 1026 slit. The edges of slit 1026 may be bent inward such that the wheels cannot "escape" from the channel through the opening. Optionally, support 1109 and/or panels 101 are pulled along the channel by a drive cable and/or have motors to drive wheels inside the channels and/or may be connected to another drive mechanism (e.g., a screw drive, a linear actuator, a magnetic drive, a hydraulic actuator etc.).

FIG. 13A is a schematic longitudinal view illustration of a guiding apparatus with a guide cable passing between pairs of aligned guide wheels 1101 and/or guides. Optionally, wheels 1101 are aligned on opposite sides of guide 1307. In some embodiments, guiding cable 1307 passes between two curved surface of the guide wheels 1101 and/or guides 1307. Optionally, guide cable 1307 is connected to a cablebased grid 1003. Alternatively, or additionally, wheels 1101 may move along track 1205 and/or may be connected to a moving grid and/or truss and/or the track 1205 may be stationary. For example, the track may be rigid and/or may include a suspended cable. The minimum distance between the upper and lower guide wheels 1101 in the embodiment of FIG.13A may be the vertical gap between the closest edges of an upper and lower guide wheels and/or may be less than the diameter of the guide cable 1307 and/or between 1 to 5 times the diameter and/or between 5 to 100 times the diameter.

FIG. 13B is a schematic longitudinal view illustration of a guiding apparatus with a guide cable 1307 passing between pairs of spaced guide wheels 1101 and/or guides. Optionally, the wheels 1101 are distributed along the cable on opposite sides of guide cable 1307 linearly. Optionally, guide cable supports and/or moves a cable-based grid. Optionally, the guiding cable 1307 maybe linear with the guides on opposite sides, facing each other with an offset between them. Alternatively, or additionally, wheels 1101 may move along track 1205 and/or may be connected to a moving grid and/or truss and/or the track may be stationary. For example, the track may be rigid and/or may include a suspended cable. For example, the track may be rigid and/or may include a suspended cable. The minimum distance between the upper and lower guide wheels 1101 in the embodiment of FIG.13B may be the longitudinal gap between the closest edges of an upper and next lower guide wheels and/or may be less than the diameter of the guide cable 1307 and/or between 1 to 5 times the diameter and/or between 5 to 100 times the diameter and/or between 100 to 1000 times the diameter.

FIG. 13C is a schematic longitudinal view illustration of a guiding apparatus with aguide cable 1307 passing between pairs of spaced guides staggered wheels 1101 and/or guides. Optionally, the wheels 1101 are distributed along the cable on opposite sides of guide cable 1307 in a staggered fashion. Optionally, the guide cable 1307 supports and/or moves a cable-based grid. Optionally, the guiding cable 1307 may zigzag between the staggered guides on opposite sides. Optionally, the guiding cable 1307 may be flexible and/or may be replaced in part or entirely by one or more flexible tubes.

FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a dynamic tension creating device maintaining tension on a lattice of cables 1402 (e.g., cable-based grid 103), in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, one or more actuators (e.g., pneumatic pistons 1414) apply a force (e.g., pulling force) that maintains a predetermined tension on the lattice of cables 1402 (e.g., cable-based grid 103). For example, pistons 1414 connect between cable guide 409 and an anchor point 1406. Alternatively, or additionally, a dynamic tension creating device may include a tension wheel. Optionally, a dynamic tension creating actuator may include a mechanical actuator (e.g., a screw driven element) and/or an elastic element (e.g., a spring) and/or a hydraulic element (e.g., a hydraulic piston) and/or a pneumatic element.

Additionally, or alternatively, FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of a reflective surface 1415 to enhance solar energy absorption by solar panels 101. For example, a reflective surface 1415 may reflect sunlight onto solar panels on a rear side of a conveyer.

Alternatively, or additionally, surface 1415 may include a safety component that prevents objects from falling from the suspended solar energy system to the ground below. For example, surface 1415 may include a net that catches fragments falling from and/or disconnected from the suspended system.

In some embodiments, reflective surface 1415 includes a reflective device made of light weight flexible material, (non-limiting examples of light weight flexible material include: a net, a Fabric, a grid, a sheet made of polymeric material, etc.). Optionally, the light weight flexible material has a high albedo, (for example, its color is white and/or metallic silver).

In some embodiments, the reflective surface 1415 includes a plurality of elements with high albedo coupled to the flexible material.

In some embodiments, the present invention a reflective surface 1415 is coupled to a flexible wire grid 1403, (e.g., directly and/or through other components) in a manner that reflects sun rays back to the back side of the solar panels 101, e.g., facilitating more efficient absorption of the sun energy for a two-sided solar panel.

Additionally, or alternatively, FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of a solar panel cooling device 1413, may be integrated into the solar energy array. For example, at a certain location, at a few locations and/or all along a solar collecting device, nozzles may spray water and/or a mist onto solar panels 101.

In some embodiments, a solar array may include a cleaning device 1411. For example, cleaning device may include a stationary device that may cover a line across a cleaning section and/or clean solar panels of a whole row together and/or the rows of solar cells may be conveyed to the cleaning location. Alternatively, or additionally, the cleaning device may be mobile and/or pass across the panels.

Some embodiments may include a dynamic tension creating device for a cablebased grid 1403. For example, tensioning device may include a device capable of enhancing and/or reliving the tension in a guiding cable 1407 and/or a cable 1402 in the cable-based grid 1403. For example, the tension enhancing device may include a pneumatic piston 1414.

A non-limiting example of a tensioning device includes a hydraulic arm (e.g., hydraulic piston 1414) coupled on one side to a cable guide 409 and/or on its other side to an anchoring point 1406. For example, the tensioning device 1433 may include an actuator (e.g., a pneumatic piston 1414) that pulls on the cable guide 409 and/or a cable. For example, cable guide 409 may be mounted to an anchor point 1406 and/or an arm 1436 and/or a pivot 1437. Optionally, cable guide 409 is attached to arm 1436 via a bearing 1438.

For example, the coupling is executed in a manner that as the tensioning device (e.g., piston 1414) contracts and/or the length of the hydraulic arm 1436 is shortened and/or lengthened, tension is increased and/or decreased in the cables stretched between opposing cable guide 409. In some embodiments, the dynamic tension creating device is configured to enhance tension in a cable spaced grid 1403 and/or guiding cable 1407 (e.g., increasing and/or decreasing the tension according to need (e.g., in response to a sensor)).

In some embodiments, a solar power array may include any combination of none, one, some, and/or all of a cleaning device 1411, a reflective surface 1415 and/or a cooling device 1433. In some embodiments, a cable-based grid 1403 that has relatively small holes in its structure or even a Fabrice type structure. Optionally, a small diameter conveying reel 417 pulls on the guide cable and/or cables (e.g., similar to cables 102) while curve guide 418 (e.g., a high friction guide wheel) pushes the cable-based grid 1403 over direction changes (e.g., downwards and/or upwards via the fabric).

In some embodiments, the tension in the grid is maintained by using a tension maintaining device on each side of the cable-based grid 1403.

In some embodiments, a mobile solar power array may include an apparatus to reduce and/or increase wind obstruction. Optionally, the apparatus to reduce and/or increase wind obstruction may be a passive type and/or an active type.

In some embodiments of the present invention a solar panel cleaning device 1411 may be added as a sub-system to a mobile solar panel array. For example, the solar panel cleaning device 1411 may be stationary. Optionally, the solar array may be moveable. For example, a cable-based grid 103 may move to pass attached solar panels 101 gradually under the cleaning device 1411 and/or to be cleaned. Alternatively, or additionally, the cleaning device 1411 may be mobile across a maintenance area. For example, a sub-set of solar panels may be moved to the maintenance area and/or the cleaning device passed over the maintenance area to clean sub-set of the panels in the maintenance area. Subsequently, a new sub-set of panels may be moved to the maintenance area and cleaned. Alternatively, or additionally, the cleaning device 1411 may be mobile over the entire array.

In some embodiments, cable guide 409 and/or a similar device may be coupled to the solar panel cleaning device 1411. Alternatively, or additionally, the same cable guide 409 and/or a different mobilizing device may be integrated as a sub-system in, and/or coupled to, the cable-based grid 1403 and/or solar panel array (e.g., to mobilize the solar array).

In some embodiments, the solar panel cooling device 1411 is integrated as a sub-system in, or coupled to, the cable solar panel array.

In some embodiments, a layer of absorbing material may be added to the back side of at least one solar panel. Optionally, the absorbing material may facilitate continued cooling after water is applied. For example, water may be applied on the back side of the solar panel and/or cool a heat absorbing material. Optionally, the heat absorbing material (for example, an aluminum block) may continue to cool the solar panel after the water has dried. Optionally, the water retaining material (for example, an absorbent material) may remain wet and/or continue to cool the solar panel. In some embodiments, both cleaning and cooling may be performed by the same system.

In some embodiments, a suspended and/or cable-based solar array may include a safety device. For example, the safety device may inhibit collateral damage from broken and/or disconnected components of the support structure and/or cables. Nonlimiting examples of a safety device include: failsafe cords coupled to an element in the solar panel array (for example, to prevent the array and/or parts thereof from falling down in case of detachment) and/or nets integrated into the system in a manner that intercepts falling parts of the system that may become detached and/or other safety devices. For example, a flexible base 449 connected conveyer assembly

Fig. 15 is a side view of a cable guide 1509 having a complex path for guiding a guiding cable 1507 to drive a cable-based grid along the path in a solar power array 1508, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, a solar array may include a wind blocking device. For example, wind blocking apparatus 1532 is integrated into the exemplary system of FIG. 15.

In some embodiments, a solar power array may include a wind blocking apparatus 1532. For example, apparatus 1532 is designed to reduce or increase the wind obstruction caused by a solar panel array (for example, including a cable-based grid and/or multiple solar panels and/or a conveying device for example, as illustrated in various embodiments herein). For example, apparatus 1532 is a wind blocking apparatus. Optionally, a sail and/or a wall may shield a solar array 1508 from wind.

In some embodiments, an apparatus 1532 may be designed to reduce and/or increase the wind obstruction is integrated as a sub-system in, and/or coupled to, the cable-based grid 1503, and/or an anchor point 1406. For example, there may be a wind redirecting element, such as sail and/or wall and/or fin. Optionally, apparatus 1532 may enable reduction in the wind obstruction caused by solar power array 1508 and/or from another solar power apparatus.

In some embodiments, a wind blocking apparatus 1532 may be coupled to and/or erected near a solar collecting array in a configuration that reduces the impact of wind currents on the solar panel array.

In some embodiments, a solar collecting array 1508 may be elevated above the ground. Optionally, a cable guide 1509 and/or guide may convey solar panels from the array between a location where they are exposed to sunlight to a location facilitating maintenance of the panels, (e.g., near the ground and/or near an elevated maintenance area etc.). Optionally, the cable guide 1509 may be connected to one or more anchor points 1406. Optionally, the guide, cable guide 1509, and/or anchor point 1406 may be coupled to one or more devices in a manner that facilitates a Dual Use of the same land area. In some embodiments, the device may use the electricity produced by the elevated above ground solar panel array and/or alternatively, the device may not use the power produced by the array.

FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration of a dynamic cable length controlling device 1630, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, a solar collecting array (e.g., a plurality of solar panels connected to a cable-based grid) moves (e.g., between a position collecting power to a position for cleaning and/or maintenance). Optionally, a connection to an electricity collecting network 1605 includes an adjustable length cable 1631 with a first immobile end 1633 connected to the electrical network 1605 (e.g., to facilitate conveying the electricity outside the system). Optionally, a second movable connection 1634 is connected to the solar collecting array (e.g., a cable-based grid and/or plurality of solar panels). Adjustable cable 1631 may be suitable to facilitate repositioning of the cable-based grid and/or solar panels (e.g., as it moves up or down) without connecting cable 1631 being damaged or tom. Non-limiting examples for an adjustable cable length controlling device include apparatuses used in garden hose, apparatuses used in cranes, and/or other systems.

In some embodiments, an electrical adaptor 1636 (e.g., a transformer, DC to DC converter, a DC to AC converter, an AC to DC converter, a pulse width modulation (PWM) based adapter, etc.) may facilitate transferring power between the solar panel array and the grid power. Alternatively, or additionally, an electrical adapter and/or converter may be placed within the solar panel array (e.g., to increase efficiency and/or protect panels from bum out, to control voltage, to control current, etc.). The system may also include components to control oscillation of power, for example, a voltage asymmetry monitoring and/or controlling device (e.g., a sensor), an asymmetric voltage axis and/or an energy storage element (e.g., a capacitor and/or battery) and/or an inductor.

FIG. 17A is a view of a mobile cable-based power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. FIG. 17B is a zoomed in view of a portion of the exemplary conveying system of the embodiment of FIG. 17A. In some embodiments, conveying apparatus including an actuator (e.g., a motor 1827) and/or a cable guide 1809 conveys rows of solar panels 1801 atached to a cable-based grid 1803. The apparatus is configured to convey the rows of solar panels 1801 between a power generating position 1841 suspended above ground with atop face including solar panels 1801 facing upwards toward the sun and a cleaning position 1843 e.g., wherein the panels 1801 have been moved downward with a face vertical for cleaning. Optionally, a cleaning device 1805 (e.g., a tractor with an automatic brush and/or cleaning fluid sprayer) may drive along the row of panels 1801 and clean the panels in the cleaning positing 1843. Optionally, once a row has been cleaned the cable guide 1809 rolls the array like a conveyer belt and/or moves another row to the cleaning position 1843. The row of cleaned solar panels may be transported by the guide cable 1807 to a position 1849 below the power generating position 1841. Cleaning may be performed at night and/or during the day. All or many of the panels may be rolled back to the power generating position 1841 to produce electricity.

In some embodiments, an anchoring point 1806 includes a post to which a guide of the cable-based grid 1803 is attached. An anchoring device may include various types (for example, as used in cable cars and/or ski lifts). Non-limiting examples of an anchoring device are: a pole, a pillar, a building, a cliff, an antenna, a man-made structure, a floating anchor, a Marine anchor, the ground itself, and other anchor points known in previous knowledge.

In some embodiments, a solar panel cleaning device may include a cleaning device capable of removing undesired materials from at least one solar panel. For example, the cleaning device may include a brush (e.g., configured to brush the surface of a solar panel) and/or a nozzle (e.g., configured to spray cleaning fluid (e.g., water) on to a solar panel). Optionally, the cleaning device moves around a cleaning area. In some embodiments, the cleaning device may include an adjustable length connection (e.g., to electricity and/or to a water source). For example, an adjustable length connection similar to the adjustable length connection described in connection to FIG. 16. Optionally, a cleaning device may include an independent vehicular platform (e.g., as illustrated by cleaning device 1805). Alternatively, or additionally, the cleaning device may run on a track. Alternatively, or additionally, the cleaning device may remain stationary. For example, a cleaning device 1411 may cover a line across a cleaning section and/or clean solar panels of a whole row simultaneously and/or sequentially and/or the rows of solar cells may be conveyed to the cleaning location. Optionally, a panel cooling device may be combined with a cleaning device. Non- limiting examples for a solar panel cleaning device include: a cleaning device using a stream of water and/or other cleaning liquids, cleaning devices using gasses, like air or steam, a cleaning device using contact devices (e.g., linear moving brushes, stationary brushes across which the panels pass, rotating brushes and mops, etc.), cleaning device using vacuum, cleaning device using ultrasound, other cleaning devices and methods. In some embodiments, a solar panel cleaning device includes a device for collecting the excess water that is used, optionally, collected water may be recycled and/or discarded.

In some embodiments, a panel cleaning device 1805 includes a mobilizing device (for example, the tractor carrying the rotating brushes of device 1805). For example, a mobilizing device may be coupled to a solar panel cleaning device in a manner that facilitates the solar panel cleaning device covering a larger area than it may cover without the mobilizing device. Additionally, or alternatively, the mobilizing device for solar panel cleaning device 1805 may be manually operated and/or autonomously operated and/or remotely operated e.g., via a computerized robotic subsystem coupled to it.

Non-limiting examples of a mobilizing device for solar panel cleaning device include:

- mounting the solar panel cleaning device on a motorized or non-motorized vehicle.

- mounting the solar panel cleaning device on a motorized or non-motorized ship or vessel.

- coupling the solar panel cleaning device to a cable-based mobilizing device.

In some embodiments, a solar panel cleaning device may include components similar to systems and methods used in external cleaning of building, and/or in sport events fdming, and/or in 3D printing devices.

FIG. 18 is a view of a mobile cable-based power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, an array of solar panels 1801 may be arranged on cable-based grids 1803. Optionally, the cable-based grids 1803 may be in the form of a continuous loop conveyer belt and/or each grid 1903 carries a plurality of panels 1801. Optionally, each grid 1903 may be driven by a cable guide 1809. For example, rows of panels 1801 are moved between a sun exposed position 1862 (e.g., an upper position 1862 on top of the device where the panels 1801 are exposed to sun and/or generate power) and a maintenance position 1863 (e.g., near the ground and/or lower than the exposed position) and/or a waiting position 1849 (e .g . , below the exposed position 1862). Alternatively, or additionally, a cleaning position may be elevated and/or the cleaning device may move on a maintenance shelf and/or track raised to the height of the panels. In some embodiments, an elevated maintenance area may enhance separation from the activity that is happening on the ground from activity of the solar power system such as maintenance of the solar power generating system.

FIG. 19 is a view of a mobile cable-based power array passing over a roadway, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, an array of solar panels 1901 may be arranged on a cable-based grid 1903. Optionally, the cable-based grid 1903 may be in the form of a continuous loop conveyer belt and/or carries a plurality of panels 1901. Optionally, the grid 1903 may be driven by a conveyer apparatus, for example, including a cable guide 1609 on an anchor point 1606. For example, rows of panels 1901 may be moved between a sun exposed position on top of the device (e.g., an upper position 1962) and a lower position (e.g., maintenance position 1963 and/or returning portion 1664). For example, a maintenance area may include an elevated platform 1968 elevated to approximately the height of the solar panel system, e.g., above ground level, (for example, a cleaning apparatus moves along on top of the shelf). For example, platform 1968 may be elevated between 1 to 3 meters, and/or between 3 to 10 meters, and/or between 10 to 50 meters.

FIG. 20A is a view of a mobile cable-based power with panels tilted, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, solar panels 2001 may be tilted to track the sun. For example, a tilting sub-system may be integrated in and/or coupled to a mobile cable-based solar panel array.

In some embodiments, a sun tracking device is coupled to a solar panel 2001 and/or to a cable-based grid 2003 in a manner that facilitates solar panels 2001 tracking the movement of the sun across the sky. Alternatively, or additionally, the tilting system may be used to decrease wind resistance of the solar panels 2001, when necessary.

A non-limiting example of a sun tracking device is illustrated in FIG. 20. For example, a row of panels 2001 are connected on a first edge (e.g., a top edge 2065) by an axle 2067 to a guide cable 2002 (see FIG. 20C). Optionally, stiff axle 2067 holds and/or rotates the fixed edge (e.g., the top) of the panels 2001. A second (e.g., bottom/free) edge 2066 of the panels 2001 is optionally, attached to a raising cable 2068. For example, when cable 2068 is tightened, it lifts the free end 2066 tilting the panel 2001 upwards. Optionally, bar 2069 connects the between free ends of a row of panels 2001 and/or the raising cable 2068 e.g., for raising and/or lowering edges 2066 of multiple panels 2001 simultaneously and/or for inhibiting the free edge 2066 from uncontrolled movement and/or collisions between panels 2001. For example, a pulley wheel 2070 may interconnect between cable 2068 and axle 2067 and/or bar 2069. For example, cable 2068 runs over, is supported by, and/or rotates wheels 2070. Optionally, bar 2069 may be attached to the bottom of the panels 2001 near the free edge 2066. The mechanism may be similar to the above-described apparatus designed to reduce and/or increase the wind obstruction of a solar panel. For example, a panel by 2001 to track the movement of the sun as it changes its position in the sky throughout the months of the year. For example, when the sun is low in the sky, (e.g. in winter time) cable is released to allow a larger angle in relation to the ground, (closer to being vertical) and doing the opposite in summertime.

FIG. 21 is a block diagram of a mobile power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, a portion of a mobile solar array 2102 (for example, an array of solar panels connected to a cable-based grid) is conveyed by conveyer apparatus 2117 and/or led by cable guide 2109 between a maintenance area 2163 and a solar exposure area 2162. For example, the panels may be moved to the solar exposure area 2162 facing upwards during the day and moved for cleaning and/or other maintenance at night. The maintenance area 2163 may be closer to the ground than the solar exposure area 2162 and/or near an elevated platform (e.g., supporting the back of panels, and/or on which workers stand, and/or on which equipment is supported). The system may have various additions and/or attributes as illustrated in any of the embodiments herein disclosed.

In some embodiments, a solar collecting array 2102 is elevated above the ground. Optionally, a conveying apparatus 2117 and/or cable guide 2109 conveys solar panels from the array back and forth between a solar exposure area 2163 where the panels are exposed to sunlight and a maintenance area 2162 facilitating maintenance of the panels (e.g., near the ground, and/or near an elevated maintenance area, etc.). Optionally, the guide 2109, conveying apparatus 2117 and/or an anchor point is coupled to one or more devices in a manner that facilitates a Dual Use of the same land area. In some embodiments, the device may use the electricity produced by the elevated above ground solar panel array or alternatively, the device may not use the power produced by the array. In some embodiments, a solar collecting array 2102 and/or anchor points support and/or are connected to a device or a system that emits light and/or heat. For example, light and/or heat may be emitted downwards. For example, the system may facilitate a dual-purpose apparatus combining a device harvesting solar power with a device lighting and/or heating an area underneath it. Non-limiting examples of areas that may be heated and/or lit include a park, an urban area, a port, an agricultural facility or field, a fish farm, a parking lot, a workplace, a road, etc.

In some embodiments, a solar collecting array 2102 and/or anchor points support and/or are connected to an irrigation system and/or water supply system.

In some embodiments, a solar collecting array 2102 and/or anchor points support and/or are connected to a security system.

In some embodiments, a solar collecting array 2102 and/or anchor points support and/or are connected to a wind energy harvesting device with or without a wind funneling device.

In some embodiments, a solar collecting array 2102, and/or anchor points support, and/or are connected to an advertising apparatus (e.g., a billboard, an electronic billboard, a billboard light etc.).

In some embodiments, a solar collecting array 2102 and/or anchor points support and/or are connected to a device to reduce evaporation from a body of water or from plants. Alternatively, or additionally, the collecting array 2102 itself (e.g., shade from the array 2102) may reduce evaporation of the water.

In some embodiments, cable-based grid 1503 may be configured to move in various directions, for example, upwards, and/or downwards, and/or laterally. Optionally, bends in the movement may also be up, down and/or horizontal.

FIG. 22 is a schematic illustration of a mobile cable-based power array with an elevated maintenance area, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some of the embodiments, support 2251b may be behind panels 2201 in the area where cleaning and/or maintenance operations are performed. Optionally, support 2251b may be rigid and/or support the rear of the panels. Optionally, the rear support 225 lb may facilitate resistance of the support to the pressure exerted by the cleaning system (e.g., brushes) on the panels 2201, this may advantageously facilitate improved cleaning. Non-limiting examples of materials for the support 2251b include: strips of hard material, (for example, a strip of hard plastic material around which the panels move in the maintenance area), a metal frame on which a cable-based grid 2203 is tightly stretched. Optionally, the support may be capable of supporting the panels while they and/or a cable spaced grid 2203 are conveyed by a cable guide 2209 in the area designated for maintenance. Optionally, the support may be type of rotating drum on which the panels rotate in the maintenance area. For example, the array of panels 2201 may travel as a unit with different parts of the array passing through the area 2243, designated for maintenance (e.g., near the ground and/or an elevated platform 2251a and/or an area of support 225 lb) and/or an area 2241 exposed to the sun for producing energy and/or a waiting area 2249.

In some embodiments, there is maintenance platform 2251a that facilitates cleaning and maintenance. For example, workers and/or equipment may stand on platform 225 la. Optionally, the platform may be elevated at a height that may reduce disruption to activities at ground level. The platform may be similar to a system above a road and/or a stream channel to which access from ground level is limited, (e.g., similar to the maintenance shelf on tall billboards). Optionally, there may be a safety component for the aforementioned maintenance shelf, (e.g., a safety cable to prevent falls, a safety rail, etc.). Optionally, there may be a modular component (e.g., a variable length hose and/or cable) that carries electrical and/or water and/or air infrastructures along maintenance platform 2251a (for example, as illustrated in FIG. 16). In some embodiments, a rail may be supplied on which a vehicle moves on which the cleaning and maintenance work is carried out (for example, as illustrated in Figs. 24A and 24B).

FIG. 23 is a flow chart illustration of use of a mobile solar power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, solar panels are moved 2309b to a collection area to collect 2362 solar energy and/or generate power, for example, during the day. Optionally, the panels are moved 2309a to a maintenance area (for example, at night) where cleaning and/or other maintenance may be performed 2363. In some embodiments, various functions may be performed by any of the embodiments described herein.

FIG. 24A is a schematic illustration of a mid-cable support for a mobile cablebased power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, a tower 2471 and/or pulley support wheel 2473 may be used to support a guide cable 2407 and/or a cable of a cable-based grid, etc.

FIG. 24B is a schematic illustration of a mobile cable-based power array including a mid-grid support 1475, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, a mid-cable support 1475 may pass under a section of the cable-based grid. For example, support 1475 passes across the width of the cablebased grid and/or supports a row of solar panels 1901 and/or supports a portion of a guiding cable 1807. Alternatively, or additionally, a mid-cable support may run lengthwise along the cable supported grid and/or support a section of multiple rows of cells.

In some embodiments, the supporting system may include a facility that facilitates controlling the degree of support provided to the solar system, for example giving full support while the system is stationary and partial or zero support when the system is moving. Optionally, this feature may prevent interference from the support side to the movement of the system towards the maintenance area.

FIG. 25 is a schematic illustration of a suspension cable support for a vertical mobile cable-based power array, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, in vertical and/or horizontal and/or mainly vertical systems and/or partly vertical systems it may be possible to straighten the rows of panels by using cables of different lengths to support the row of panels, as is done for example, in suspension bridges such as the Golden Bridge in San Francisco.

In some embodiments, cables bowing downward may have a negative effect on the performance of the solar system. Optionally, to eliminate and/or reduce the arc that is produced, the system may include differential cable support, that is, support with cables of different lengths in a manner that aligns the rows of solar panels. Support cables of different lengths may optionally, facilitate control and the production of a straight line of panels, e.g., similarly to how vertical support cables support a straight and/or upwardly arched bridge from downwardly arched suspension cable.

For example, a cable 2578 suspended between two anchors 2505 and/or two cable guides 2509 may bow (for example cable 2578 bows downward and/or cable 2579 bows downward). Cable-based grid 2593 and/or solar panels 2501 may be supported by cables 2578, 2579. Optionally, variable length vertical suspender cables 2587 may be used to maintain cable-based grid 2593 and/or panels 2501 flat and/or facing in the same direction. Optionally, support cables may be connected to a guide cable. For example, vertical cable-based grid 2593 may be moved to position some of the panels (e.g., a row of panels) in a maintenance area.

In some embodiments, the panels and/or a cable-based grid may be supported from a cable support using vertical suspenders. Optionally, the vertical suspenders may be of different lengths (e.g., short in the middle and/or long near supports). FIG. 26A is a schematic illustration of an overwater mobile cable-based power array in a power producing position 2661 in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In the power producing position 2661, the solar panels 2201 may be positioned on the top of the system and/or facing the sun.

FIG. 26B is a schematic illustration of an overwater mobile cable-based power array in a maintenance position accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In the maintenance position, some of the solar panels 2201 may be located in a maintenance area 2643. Optionally, the system includes a floating and/or suspended platform 2651 from which workers and/or equipment can access the maintenance area 2643.

In some embodiments, a system may float on water and/or be suspended over water. Optionally, the system may not be elevated and suspended in the air. Optionally, the system may be placed to float on the surface 2360 of the water and/or panels may be connected to a conveyer belt type cable-based grid 2203. The top solar conducting side of the grid may float above the water and/or be exposed to the sun. The bottom 2663 of the grids may be positioned in the water, such that the back of the panels face upwards. Grid 2203 may be driven and/or guided by a cable guide 2209.

In some embodiments, a separation layer may separate between the top and the bottom 2663 portion for example, to prevent collision at the stage when the panels go from an upper position with their faces towards the sky to a lower position with their faces towards the ground. For example, some type of fabric and/or some type of mesh and/or some type of plastic sheet. Optionally, the separation layer may be connected to the system between the upper layer of a number of panels and the lower layer. Optionally, the lower layer may move such that the solar panels may rotate around to be upside down in the water. In some embodiments, a portion of the maintenance area of the system may be underwater. Optionally, exposure to the water may facilitate cleaning of the panels.

In some embodiments, at least one component that reduces friction may be added to the system. For example, wheels or rollers that move freely in the direction of movement of the grid.

In some embodiments, the system area on water with and without separation to prevent damage may include beads to reduce friction, or friction using wheels or using rails including a rear support surface for the maintenance area which is at sea level and not elevated. In some embodiments, a suspended and/or mobile solar collecting system may be combined with other energy harvesting system, for example, a wind energy harvesting system and/or a sea wave harvesting, tidal harvesting and harvesting of water currents system.

FIG. 27 is a block diagram of a solar power harvesting system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, mobile solar power array 2700 include a flexible solar array 2702 including a cable-based lattice 2704 and a plurality of solar panels 2706 attached thereto, wherein the flexible solar array 2702 is connected to a conveyer 2708. Optionally, the conveyer 2708 may be configured for transporting the flexible solar array 2702, such that a portion of the plurality of solar panels 2706 moves back and forth between a predetermined maintenance area and a predetermined power generating position. Optionally, the flexible solar array 2702 may be at least partially elevated above an object, such as the ground surface, a body of water, etc.

FIG. 28 is a flow chart illustrating a solar power harvesting system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, in method 2800, a flexible solar array on a guide cable may be suspended 2802 above an object. The guide cable may be conveyed 2804 via a pulley on a small diameter drive wheel to move the flexible solar array while movement of the flexible solar array may be directed 2806 around a change of direction with a rotating large diameter component thereby a portion of the array may be transported 2808 between a maintenance area and a power generating position.

It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing from this application many relevant technologies will be developed and the scope of the terms is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.

As used herein the term “about” refers to > 10%.

The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", “having” and their conjugates mean "including but not limited to".

The term “consisting of’ means “including and limited to”.

The term "consisting essentially of means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and/or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and/or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure. As used herein, the singular form "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "a compound" or "at least one compound" may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging/ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging/ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween. When multiple ranges are listed for a single variable, a combination of the ranges is also included (for example, the ranges from 1 to 2 and/or from 2 to 4 also includes the combined range from 1 to 4).

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS

1. A suspended solar power array comprising: a support configured to move along a predetermined path; a solar panel suspended on said support; a guide cable coupled to said support such that longitudinal movement of said guide cable moves said support along a predetermined path; a guide wheel under said guide cable supporting said guide cable, said guide wheel having a concave outer surface configured to hold the guide cable.

2. The solar power array according to claim 1, further comprising: an upper guide above said guide cable wherein the guiding cable passes longitudinally the guide wheel and the upper guide.

3. The solar power array according to claim 2, wherein said upper guide is positioned close enough to said guide wheel such that a gap between an outer edge of said concave outer surface and said upper guide is less than a diameter of said guide cable preventing said guide cable from passing through said gap.

4. The solar power array according to claim 3, wherein said support of the solar panel is configured to pass through said gap and passes through said gap as said support moves along said predetermined path.

5. The solar power array according to claim 3, wherein said guide wheel and said upper guide include a pair of guide wheels.

6. The solar power array according to claim 5, wherein the pair of guide wheels are held aligned in a bracket with a precise fixed spacing.

7. The solar power array of claim 1, wherein said predetermined path includes a maintenance area and a predetermined power generating position.

8. The solar power array of claim 2, wherein a minimum gap between said upper guide and said guide wheel is greater than a diameter of the guide cable.

9. The suspended solar power array of claim 8, wherein the guide wheel and the upper guide are distributed longitudinally along said guide cable and wherein said minimum gap is greater than 10 times the diameter of the guide cable.

10. The suspended solar power array of claim 2, wherein said upper guide includes a second guide wheel.

11. The suspended solar power array according to claim 1, wherein guide wheel is connected to an anchoring point and the solar power array is configured to move without disconnecting the guide wheel from the anchoring point.

12. The solar power array according to claim 1, wherein the support includes a support cable and the suspended solar power array is configured to move without losing tension in the support cable.

13. The solar power array according to claim 12, wherein the solar panel includes a plurality of solar panels and is configured to move without affecting spread configuration of the plurality of solar panels.

14. The solar power array according to any of claims 1 to 13, including a second guide cable and wherein said support is suspended between said guide cable and said second guide cable.

15. The solar power array according to claim 1, wherein the guide cable is flexible.

16. The solar power array according to claim 1, wherein the guide cable is configured to pass over a fixed concave surface.

17. The solar power array according to claim 16, wherein the guiding cable is configured to pass over a concave surface with bearings.

18. A suspended solar power array comprising: a support configured to move along a predetermined path; a solar panel suspended on said support; a track; a guide wheel coupled to said support and running along said track such that movement of said guide wheel along said track moves said support along a predetermined path.

19. The solar power array according to claim 18, wherein the support includes a truss.

20. The solar power array according to claim 19, wherein the truss supports one or more solar panels and is configured to be transported by a guide cable.

21. The solar power array according to claim 18, wherein the guide wheel moves inside a hollow portion of the track and wherein the support passes through gap and wherein the gap in said hollow portion is larger than a width of the support and smaller than a width of the guide cable.

22. The array according to claim 18, further comprising a second guide wheel and a second track and wherein the support is stiff and positioned between said guide wheel and said second guide wheel and wherein a stiffness of the support prevents said guide wheel from approaching said second guide wheel and retrains said guide wheel and said second guide wheel on said track and said second track.

23. A method for maintenance of a solar power array comprising: supplying an array of solar panels attached to a mobile support; suspending said mobile support on a guide cable; supporting said guide cable on concave surface of a wheel with a moving said array of solar panels from a predetermined power generating position to a predetermined maintenance area by pulling said guide cable to move by rolling said wheel.

24. The method of claim 23 further comprising maintaining said guide cable inside said concave surface by limited upward movement of the guide cable with an upper guide.

25. A method for maintenance of a solar power array comprising: supplying an array of solar panels attached to a rigid mobile support; suspending said mobile support on pair a first wheel and a second wheel; supporting said first wheel on a first track and the second wheel on a second track; moving said array of solar panels from a predetermined power generating position to a predetermined maintenance area by rolling said first wheel along said first track and rolling said second wheel along said second track; retaining said first wheel on said first track and said second wheel on said second track by preserving a fixed geometric relationship between said first wheel and second wheel by means of said rigid support.