Solar power satellite

Patent · Tue Nov 15 04:00:00 EST 1983

OSTI ID:5285326

Copeland, R J; Martin, J D

A solar power satellite includes a truss structure having a plurality of independently controlled solar power modules mounted to one face of the truss structure. The solar power satellite is constructed in orbit by first forming and then assemblying component beam members to the truss structure. The solar power modules are constructed on a fabrication and assembly station movably attached to the truss structure and are then attached to the truss structure. The solar power modules include a primary reflector having a substantially parabolic curvature in cross section. A collector-radiator is mounted on the primary axis of the primary reflector. The cross-sectional configuration of the collector-radiator approximates a flattened inverted S-shape whereon the radius of curvature decreases as the curve approaches both its center and its end furthermost from the primary reflector. The primary reflector is contoured to reflect sun light onto the collector-radiator structure. The collector-radiator structure includes a plurality of spaced radiant energy converting cells. A plurality of light reflective fins are positioned between the converter cells. Each fin is thermally and electrically connected to converter cells on each side thereof. The fins provide radiant cooling of and series electrical connection between the converter cells. The fins also serve as a secondary reflector for concentrating sun light from the primary reflector onto the converter cells.

• Assignee: Vought Corp.
• Patent Number(s): US 4415759
• OSTI ID: 5285326
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140909* -- Solar Thermal Utilization-- Miscellaneous Solar Applications-- (1980-)
CONVERSION
DESIGN
DIRECT ENERGY CONVERTERS
ENERGY CONVERSION
EQUIPMENT
ORBITAL SOLAR POWER PLANTS
ORBITAL SOLAR REFLECTORS
PHOTOELECTRIC CELLS
PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS
POWER PLANTS
SATELLITES
SOLAR CELLS
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR CONCENTRATORS
SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SOLAR POWER PLANTS
SOLAR REFLECTORS