Rigid-Framed Flexible Panel Solar Array

Abstract: provided herein are various enhancements for solar panels and photovoltaic array assemblies. in one example, a system includes solar panel assemblies each comprising a frame defining a mounting area formed from modular segments having receiving features configured to accept spline elements that mount a perimeter of a flexible photovoltaic panel into the mounting area and apply a radial tension to the flexible photovoltaic panel. a stowage mechanism is configured to hold the solar panel assemblies in a stacked configuration and comprising a rod assembly disposed through apertures in the frames of each of the solar panel assemblies. a deployment mechanism is configured to deploy the solar panel assemblies from the stacked configuration into a deployed configuration and comprising self-opening hinges attached between selected pairs of the frames.

Inventor(s): John L. Gibb, Phuc Huu Phan, Devon John Gibb, Egan Chiu, Montgomery Michael Perry

CPC Classification: H02S30/20 (Collapsible or foldable PV modules)

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