US 20100072823A1

(19) United States

(12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2010/0072823 A1
Oliver
(54)

(43) Pub. Date:

DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR

DIRECTLY GENERATING ALTERNATING

Publication Classi?cation
(51)

???iggfi?glgfgwml
Jason Allen Oliver, Arcadia, IN
(Us)

Correspondence Address:
Bruce J- BOWIIlaIl

Int Cl

How/0
(52)

(76) Inventor:

Mar. 25, 2010

(2006-01)

US. Cl. ........................................................ .. 307/81

(57)
ABSTRACT
A device, system and method for generating alternating cur
rent (a/c) electricity directly from photovoltaic cells utilize an
array of photovoltaic cell pairs that are each connected in
anti-parallel to form an a/c junction. The system, device and

Bowman & Associates

Suite 106, 1016 3rd Ave. SW
Carmel, IN 46032 (US)

method mechanically gradually exposes and shades photo

voltaic cell pairs to sunlight to generate alternating current
electricity at an a/c junction of the solar cell pairs. Gradually

and alternately exposing and shading the tWo anti-parallel

(21) App1_ NO;

12/566,327

(22) Filed:

sep_ 24 2009

(60)

Related U's' Apphcatlon Data

Provisional application No. 61/194,1 14, ?led on Sep.
24, 2008.

connected solar cells ofeach solar cell pair causes the ampli
tude and polarity of the electricity at the a/c junction to gradu
ally rise and fall to produce alternating current electricity. The
gradual, alternating exposure and shading of the tWo anti
parallel solar cells is accomplished by mechanically covering

and exposing the solar cell pairs. This is e?iciently accom

PliShed by a rOIaIing Segmented diSC positioned Over an array
of solar cell pairs.

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US 2010/0072823 A1

DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR

DIRECTLY GENERATING ALTERNATING
CURRENT ELECTRICITY FROM
PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS

Mar. 25, 2010

(glass mirrors) of producing the simulated a/c Waveform by

the high speed rotating mirror is not ef?cient. Moreover,
Butler is not easily scalable to produce larger voltages/am
peres nor is it relatively maintenance free.

[0008]

[0001] This patent application claims the bene?t of and/or

priority to US. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
61/194,114 ?led Sep. 24, 2008, entitled TWo or Three Phase
Solar Alternator With 50-60 Cycle Phase SynchroniZer the
entire contents of Which is speci?cally incorporated herein by
this reference.

[0002]

In US. Patent Publication No. 2005/0034750 by

RabinoWitZ published Feb. 17, 2005 (hereinafter, RabinoW

itZ), a solar cell alternating current generator is provided that
uses a dynamic spinning ensemble of mini-mirrors to both
concentrate and modulate rays from the sun onto a photovol

taic collector array. The focusing and superimposed spinning

action produces single phase and multiphase alternating cur
rent electricity. The problem With RabinoWitZ is again, the use
of glass mirrors, the need for focusing the mini-mirrors and

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

maintain their high speed spinning is not e?icient.

1. Field of the Invention

[0009]

[0003] The present invention relates to photovoltaics (i.e.

technology and research related to the application of photo

voltaic cells in producing electricity for practical use) and,

more particularly, to devices, systems and methods for gen

erating alternating current electricity from photovoltaic cells.

[0004] 2. Background Information
[0005] The demand and need for clean and reneWable
energy is becoming more urgent as earth undergoes global

climate changes. Generation of electricity from coal produces

over 50% of the carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere
each year. Coal and other fossil fuels Will also eventually run

out. The hydroelectric poWer generation of electricity is lim

ited to places Where there is an adequate Water source.

Nuclear energy for the creation of electricity has the draW

back of creating nuclear Waste. HoWever, one type of clean
reneWable energy is solar energy or sunlight. Solar energy is
a constant source of clean energy that can shine on all areas of

the surface of the planet.

[0006] Solar energy or sunlight can be converted into elec
tricity by a photovoltaic cell. A photovoltaic cell knoWn as a
solar cell captures and converts sunlight into electricity. A
solar cell is made from a semi-conducting material (a semi
conductor) such as silicon that absorbs the sunlight Which
generates a How of electricity through the solar cell. Because

of the properties of semiconductors, positive and negative

terminals of the solar cell are static and electron ?oW from a

solar cell is uni-directional (i.e. the electricity can only How in

one direction). Thus, as With all photovoltaic cells, the solar

cell produces only direct current (d/c) electricity. The prob

lem With direct current electricity is that direct current elec

tricity is dif?cult to transmit any appreciable distance, Which

limits its use. Thus, alternating current electricity is more
usable than direct current electricity. Moreover, most electri

cal devices utiliZe alternating current (a/ c) electricity.

[0007] Various prior art devices have attempted to provide
suitable alternating current electricity from photovoltaic or
solar cells. For instance, US. Pat. No. 4,075,034 issued to
Butler on Feb. 21, 1978 (hereinafter, Butler) provides a
solar converter for producing variable amplitude alternating
current Waveforms directly from solar energy by using a
photo-voltaic cell bank array formed of a plurality of

In US. Pat. No. 6,774,299 issued to Ford on Aug.

10, 2004 (hereinafter, Ford), a solar alternating current

electricity generator is provided that utiliZes a rotating, par
titioned array of photovoltaic cells. Contact brushes and Wir
ing are provided to transfer the electric current to an applied
load. The draWback to Ford is the need for contact brushes

and Wiring to generate the alternating current electricity.

Moreover, the rotating photovoltaic cell vanes of Ford are not
e?icient.
[0010] In US. Pat. No. 4,728,878 issued to Anthony on
Mar. 1, 1988 (hereinafter, Anthony), a solar energy electric

generating system is provided for space vehicles Which

directly generates alternating current from ambient light
Without poWer conversion. Light incident to photocell arrays

is mechanically or electrically gated to produce ?uctuating

direct current (d/ c) electricity. A number of transforming
devices are provided to convert the ?uctuating d/c current to

alternating current (a/ c). Through variation of the frequency

and duty cycle of the pulsing output voltage, frequency and
phase relative to a reference may be controlled. HoWever,

With the Anthony solar energy electric generating system, the

mechanical gating provides a square Wave that is then condi
tioned to provide an alternating current Waveform.
[0011] Last, in US. Pat. No. 4,577,052 issued to Schutten
et al. on Mar. 18, 1986 (hereinafter, Schutten), an altemat

ing current solar cell is provided by connecting solar cells

(P/N junctions) in anti-parallel betWeen a pair of main termi
nals. Light is provided alternately on the P/N junctions
through a mirror system that splits the beam and causes the
split beam to impinge on the P/N junctions.
[0012] It is clear from the above that the prior art devices for

generating alternating current electricity directly from pho

tovoltaic or solar cells are complicated, dif?cult to align and

maintain, and cannot provide adequate scaling for small and

large a/c current production.
[0013]

In vieW of the above, it is desirable to have a solar

poWered alternating current (a/c) electricity generator, sys

tem and method that produces single or multi-phase a/c elec

tricity that is simple, ef?cient and easily scalable in voltage

and/or amperage.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Weighted photo-voltaic segments. A multi-sided high speed,

[0014]

rotating and light concentrating concave mirror system pro

vides light on and past the Weighted segments of the photo

method for directly generating alternating current electricity

voltaic bank to produce instantaneous output Which are pro

portional to the number of cells scanned in each segment. A

mechanically gradually exposes and shades photovoltaic cell

pairs connected in anti-parallel to sunlight to generate alter

The present invention is a system, device and

from photovoltaic cells. The system, device and method

simulated alternating current (a/ c) Waveform is produced by

nating current electricity at an a/c junction of the solar cell

suitable arrangement of the photo-voltaic segments. The

pairs. Gradually and alternately exposing and shading the tWo

simulated a/c Waveform of Butler and its fragile manner

anti-parallel connected solar cells of each solar cell pair

US 2010/0072823 A1

Mar. 25, 2010

causes the amplitude and polarity of the electricity at the a/ c

junction to gradually rise and fall to produce alternating cur

[0026] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the anti-parallel con

nection of a photovoltaic cell pair as used in the photovoltaic

rent electricity. The gradual, alternating exposure and shading

of the tWo anti-parallel solar cells is accomplished by
mechanically covering and exposing the solar cell pairs.

a/c electricity generator of FIG. 1;

[0015] In particular, While one solar cell of an anti-parallel

connected solar cell pair undergoes gradual exposure to sun
light from 0% exposure (100% shaded) of the solar cell elec
tricity generating area to 100% exposure (0% shaded) of the
solar cell electricity generating area, the other solar cell of the

[0027] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the parallel connec

tion of an exemplary photovoltaic cell pair array as may be

used in the photovoltaic a/c electricity generator of FIG. 1;

[0028] FIG. 8A is a ?rst diagram in a sequence of represen
tative diagrams illustrating the manner of generating a/c elec

tricity from a photovoltaic cell pair of a photovoltaic cell pair

array of the photovoltaic a/c electricity generator of FIG. 1;

solar cell pair undergoes gradual shading from sunlight from

[0029]

0% shaded (100% exposure) to 100% shaded (0% exposure).

Such gradual, alternating exposure and covering of each solar
cell of each anti-parallel connected solar cell pair is periodic.

representative diagrams illustrating the manner of generating

The rate of exposure and shading determines frequency.

[0016]

In one form, a rotating disc situated over the solar

cell pairs has spaced apart openings forming coverings

betWeen each opening to alternately expose and shade the
solar cell pairs during rotation. A direct current motor is
utiliZed to rotate the segmented disc. The motor is preferably

FIG. 8B is a second diagram in the sequence of

a/c electricity from a photovoltaic cell pair of a photovoltaic

cell pair array of the photovoltaic a/ c electricity generator of
FIG. 1;
[0030] FIG. 8C is a third diagram in the sequence of repre
sentative diagrams illustrating the manner of generating a/ c
electricity from a photovoltaic cell pair of a photovoltaic cell

pair array of the photovoltaic a/c electricity generator of FIG.

1;

poWered by separate solar cells.

[0031]

[0017]

The present invention also provides a phase syn

representative diagrams illustrating the manner of generating

chroniZer for maintaining a desired alternating current fre

quency. The phase synchroniZer controls the motor to control
rotation of the segmented disc.
[0018] The present invention makes solar energy a viable,

a/c electricity from a photovoltaic cell pair of a photovoltaic

cell pair array of the photovoltaic a/ c electricity generator of
FIG. 1;

cost effective, environmentally friendly option for residential

FIG. 8D is a fourth diagram in the sequence of

[0032] FIG. 8E is a ?fth diagram in the sequence of repre

sentative diagrams illustrating the manner of generating a/ c
electricity from a photovoltaic cell pair of a photovoltaic cell

and/or commercial use. The present invention is capable of

being used on a minute, small or large scale through appro

pair array of the photovoltaic a/c electricity generator of FIG.

priate scaling the solar cell a/c electricity generator and/or the

1;

use of a plurality thereof. Solar cell a/c electricity generator

arrays can easily produce the poWer equivalent to an average

[0033] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary

phase synchroniZer as used in the photovoltaic a/ c electricity
generator of FIG. 1; and
[0034] FIG. 10 is a How chart illustrating a logic diagram of
an exemplary embodiment of the phase synchroniZer of the
photovoltaic a/c electricity generator of FIG. 1.

poWer plant today, While being environmentally friendly

enough to be located proximate a playground, school or in
any urban environment. Large scale solar cell a/c electricity
generator arrays can be easily set up even in the most remote

places in the World. The present invention reduces the need of

other forms of poWer. Moreover, the present solar cell a/c
electricity generator can be set up and used anyWhere.
[0019] It is thus an object of the present invention to pro

duce alternating current electricity of speci?c frequencies,

single or three phase, from solar cells in a cost ef?cient and
simple manner.

[0035]

Like reference numerals indicate the same or similar

parts throughout the several ?gures.

[0036]

A description of the features, functions and/ or con

?guration of the components depicted in the various ?gures

Will noW be presented. It should be appreciated that not all of
the features of the components of the ?gures are necessarily
described. Some of these non discussed features as Well as

discussed features are inherent from the ?gures. Other non

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The above mentioned and other features, advan

tages and objects of this invention, and the manner of attain
ing them, Will become apparent and the invention itself Will
be better understood by reference to the folloWing description

discussed features may be inherent in component geometry

and/or con?guration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN
EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

of an embodiment of the invention taken in conjunction With

[0037]

the accompanying draWings, Wherein:

vieWs of an exemplary embodiment of a photovoltaic alter

[0021]

FIG. 1 is a perspective vieW of a photovoltaic alter

nating current (a/ c) electricity generator, generally desig

nating current (a/c) electricity generator fashioned in accor

dance With the principles of the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 2 is a loWer perspective vieW of the photovol

nated 10, fashioned in accordance With the present principles.

taic a/ c electricity generator of FIG. 1 taken from another side

of the generator;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a perspective vieW of the photovoltaic a/c

Referring to FIGS. 1-5, there is depicted various

The photovoltaic a/ c generator 10 is embodied as a solar cell

a/c electricity generator 10, but it should be appreciated that a

photovoltaic a/ c electricity generator fashioned in accordance
With the present principles may use photovoltaic cells other

FIG. 5 is a schematic vieW of the underside connec

than solar cells.

[0038] The solar cell a/ c electricity generator 10 has a base,
frame or other mounting structure 12 (base 12) that sup
ports the various components thereof. The base 12 may be
formed of Wood, plastic or other suitable material Which is
preferably, but not necessarily, a non conducting material. It

tions of the photovoltaic a/c electricity generator of FIG. 1;

should be understood that While the base 12 is shoWn as a box

electricity generator of FIG. 1 With the rotating disk thereof

removed;
[0024]

FIG. 4 is a perspective vieW of the rotating disk of

the photovoltaic a/c electricity generator of FIG. 1;

[0025]

US 2010/0072823 A1

or a box-like structure, the base may be a substrate, board or

other suitable mounting or supporting structure. The base 12

includes an alternating current (a/c) electricity production

portion 14 formed by a disk 15 and a plurality of photovoltaic
or solar cells 20 (hereinafter, solar cells 20). As best seen in
FIG. 3, the plurality of solar cells 20 is arranged in a generally

Mar. 25, 2010

ing the motor 26 for rotation of the disc 15. If desired,

rechargeable batteries 28 may be connected to the phase
synchroniZer 40 that charge With energy from the solar cells
22 and provide startup energy for the motor 26.
[0043] The solar cell a/c electricity generator 10 may
include a poWer on/off sWitch 11 for making the solar cell a/ c

circular array 21 on an upper surface 13 of the base 12. It

electricity generator 10 operable or not operable. Alternately,

should be appreciated that arrays other than circular may be

used Within the present principles. It should also be appreci

truncated conical, triangular, polygonal or square.

or in addition, the solar cell a/c electricity generator 10 may

include a light sensor 42 (shoWn in FIG. 5) that senses When
sunlight is present to then turn on the solar cell a/c electricity
generator 10. Other con?gurations may be used.
[0044] As can be discerned from FIGS. 1 and 2, rotation of

[0039]

the disc 15 causes the cutouts 16 and coverings 18 to alter

ated that While the solar cells 20 are shoWn as rectangles, the
siZe and shape of the solar cells 20 may be otherWise, such as

As best seen in FIG. 4, the disc 15 has a generally ?at

body made of a sunlight blocking material that is generally

nately expose and cover adjacent solar cells 20. The faster that
the solar cells 20 are exposed and covered (rotation speed of

the circumference of the solar cell array 21 in order to extend

over the solar cell array 21 When in use (see, e.g., FIGS. 1 and

the disc 15), the higher the frequency of a/c electricity pro

2). The disc 15 is also preferably made of a lightWeight

material that resists Warping or is not susceptible to Warping.

covered (rotation speed of the disc 15), the loWer the fre

The disc 15 is preferably re?ective either inherently or via a

coating, ?lm, overlay or the like. It should be appreciated that

the disc 15 may be partially re?ective or non-re?ective if
desired. The disc 15 has a plurality of cutouts, openings,
WindoWs or the like 16 (cutouts 16) formed thereabout. The

siZe and shape of the cutouts 16 generally correspond to the

siZe and shape of the solar cells 20 and particularly is siZed
and shaped to alloW total exposure of a solar cell 20 to sun

light When the cutout 16 is positioned over the solar cell 20.
The cutouts 16 are situated and spaced on the disc 15 so as to

de?ne a plurality of covers, coverings, blocks or the like 18

duced. The sloWer that the solar cells 20 are exposed and

quency of the a/c electricity produced. Since the solar cells are
Wired in anti-parallel, an alternating current is generated
betWeen the a/c junction of the solar cell pairs as the solar cell

pairs are alternately, gradually exposed and covered. Alter

nately stated, the total solar cell area of a solar cell pair
comprises 100% Where one solar cell of the solar cell pair
de?nes 50% of the total area and the other solar cell of the
solar cell pair de?nes the other 50% of the total area. The one
solar cell of an anti-parallel connected solar cell pair under

goes gradual exposure to sunlight from 0% exposure (100%

shaded) of the solar cell electricity generating area to 100%

(coverings 18). The coverings 18 are siZed and shaped to

exposure (0% shaded) of the solar cell electricity generating

completely cover or block a solar cell 20 When the covering is

over the solar cell 20.

area, the other solar cell of the solar cell pair undergoes

[0040] The cutouts 16 and coverings 18 are alternately radi

ally situated about the disc 15. The number of cutouts 16
corresponds by 1/2 to the number of solar cells 20 so that the
number of coverings 18 corresponds by 1/2 to the number of
solar cells 20. Therefore, When the disc 15 is situated on frame

parallel connected solar cell pair is periodic.

12 and over the solar cell array 21, the cutouts 16 and cover
ings 18 expose 1/2 of the total solar cell array area and cover 1/2
of the total solar cell array area. As the disc 15 rotates over the

array 21 of solar cells 20, the cutouts 16 and coverings 18

continuously gradually expose and cover the array of solar
cells.
[0041] The disc 15 is rotated over the solar cell array 21 by
a direct current motor 26 (see, e.g., FIG. 3) that is supported
by the base 12. Rotation may be either clockWise or counter
clockWise. A counterclockWise rotation of the disc 15 is rep
resented in the ?gures by the curved arroW(s). The motor 26
is coupled to a phase synchroniZer 40 via a motor connection

44 (see FIG. 5). The phase synchroniZer 40 provides control/

control signals to the motor 26 for varying the rotational
speed of the disc 15. Rotational speed of the disc 15 deter

mines the frequency of resultant alternating current(s) from

the solar cell a/c electricity generator 10. Additionally, the
phase synchroniZer 40 determines phase of the resultant a/c
electricity relative to a predetermined phase or phase value
(e. g. 60 HZ) and causes the motor 26 to speed up or sloW doWn
if necessary.

[0042] The motor 26 is poWered by photovoltaic (solar)

cells 22 that are situated on the base 12 so as to be continu

ously exposed to any sunlight. As best depicted in FIG. 5, the

solar cells 22 are connected via connectors 23 to provide the
proper voltage and amperage to the motor 26 and motor

controller of the phase synchroniZer 40) for properly operat

gradual shading from sunlight from 0% shaded (100% expo

sure) to 100% shaded (0% exposure). Such gradual, altemat
ing exposure and covering of each solar cell of each anti
[0045] This periodic sequence is illustrated in FIGS. 8A
through 8E. FIGS. 8A through 8E are a representation of the
manner in Which tWo solar cells of a solar cell pair are alter

nately, gradually exposed and covered to produce an a/c

Waveform. The principles of the present invention are appli
cable to any connection con?guration of solar cell pairs,
Whether opposite one another as in FIGS. 8A through 8E, or
adjacent one another as in FIG. 3.

[0046] FIG. 8A is an arbitrary beginning to the sequence

Wherein there is represented a negative current at the output

terminals A01 and Bout of the solar cell pair, at its peak nega
tive amplitude. In FIG. 8A, solar cell 20B of a solar cell pair
is 100% exposed (0% covered) While solar cell 20A is 0%
exposed (100% covered). Particularly, a cutout 16 is fully
over the solar cell 20B thus fully exposing solar cell 20B,
While at the same time, a covering 18 is fully over the solar

cell 20A thus fully shading (covering or blocking) the solar

cell 20A. A peak negative current is thus provided at output
terminals A01 and Bout Which is shoWn on the graph of FIG.
8A as current point iSA. In FIG. 8B of the sequence, the

rotating disc 15 has moved slightly counterclockWise such

that the opening 16 that Was totally exposing the solar cell
20B is noW exposing only 1/2 (and/or covering 1/2) of the area
of the solar cell 20B, While the covering 18 that Was totally
shading the solar cell 20A is noW covering only 1/2 (and/or
exposing 1/2) of the area of the solar cell 20A. This results in
a Zero (0) current at the output terminals A01 and Bout as
shoWn on the graph of FIG. 8B as current point iSB. It should
be appreciated that the rotational movement of the disc 15

US 2010/0072823 A1

from point shown in FIG. 8A to that shown in FIG. 8B

gradually exposes and covers the solar cells, as described
above, to create the gradual and not stepped a/ c waveform as

depicted in the graph of FIG. 8B.

[0047] In FIG. 8C of the sequence, the rotating disc 15 has
moved further slightly counterclockwise. In FIG. 8C, solar
cell 20A of a solar cell pair is now 100% exposed (0% cov
ered) while solar cell 20B is now 0% exposed (100% cov
ered). A cutout 16 is fully over the solar cell 20A thus fully
exposing solar cell 20A, while at the same time, a covering 18

Mar. 25, 2010

[0051]

Referring additionally to FIG. 6, a solar cell pair 66

ofsolar cells 20A and 20B is shown. As can be seen, the solar

cell pair 66 is connected in anti-parallel to provide an a/c

junction (i.e. two a/c output terminals A01 and Bout). Particu
larly, the positive terminal of the solar cell 20B is connected
to the negative terminal of the solar cell 20A, while the
positive terminal of the solar cell 20A is connected to the
negative terminal of the solar cell 20B. It should be appreci
ated that FIG. 6 is illustrative of the manner in which solar cell
pairs 66 are connected and form an a/c junction. Other con

is fully over the solar cell 20B thus fully shading (covering or
blocking) the solar cell 20B. A peak positive current is thus
provided at output terminals A01 and Bout which is shown on
the graph of FIG. 8A as current point isc. Again, it should be
appreciated that the rotational movement of the disc 15 from
point shown in FIG. 8B to that shown in FIG. 8C gradually

?gurations are contemplated. In FIG. 3 for example, two

adjacent solar cells 20 are connected in anti-parallel to pro
vide a solar cell pair such that junctions 60 and 61 (as seen in
FIGS. 3 and 5) correspond to the two a/c output terminals A01

exposes and covers the solar cells, as described above, to

electricity utiliZing an appropriately fashioned rotating disc.

A single solar cell pair would thus produce a single phase a/c

create the gradual and not stepped a/c waveform as depicted

in the graph of FIG. 8C.
[0048] In FIG. 8D of the sequence, the rotating disc 15 has
moved further slightly counterclockwise such that the open
ing 16 that was totally exposing the solar cell 20A is now

and Bout.
[0052]

A single solar cell pair 66 may be used to create a/c

waveform. Three, single solar cell pairs can produce a three

phase a/ c waveform. Multiple, single solar cell pairs can
produce a multi-phase a/ c waveform. However, to generate a

60 HZ a/c waveform, the disc (having only a single cutout)

exposing only 1/2 (and/or covering 1/2) of the area of the solar
cell 20A, while the covering 18 that was totally shading the
solar cell 20B is now covering only 1/2 (and/ or exposing 1/2) of

would have to spin at a rate of sixty revolutions per second.

the area of the solar cell 20B. While opposite to that of FIG.
8B, this results in a Zero (0) current at the output terminals
A01 and Bout as shown on the graph of FIG. 8D as current

and amperage to be increased as desired since the number of

such series or parallel connected solar cells is unlimited, as
well as slow down the rate of revolution of the disc 15.

Therefore, multiple solar cell pairs may be connected

together to provide a single a/c junction. This allows voltage

point iSD. Again, it should be appreciated that the rotational

[0053]

movement of the disc 15 from point shown in FIG. 8C to that

shown in FIG. 8D gradually exposes and covers the solar
cells, as described above, to create the gradual and not
stepped a/ c waveform as depicted in the graph of FIG. 8D.
[0049] Lastly, in FIG. 8E of the sequence, the disk has

for a single phase a/ c waveform wherein any number of solar

moved further counterclockwise such that a cutout 16 has

moved fully over solar cell 20B such that solar cell 20B is

again 100% exposed (0% covered) while a covering 18 has

again moved fully over the solar cell 20A such that the solar

cell 20A is 0% exposed (100% covered). Particularly, the

cutout 16 is fully over the solar cell 20B thus fully exposing
solar cell 20B, while at the same time, a covering 18 is fully
over the solar cell 20A thus fully shading (covering or block

ing) the solar cell 20A. A peak negative current is thus again
provided at output terminals A01 and Bout which is shown on
the graph of FIG. 8E as current point iSE. Again, it should be

Referring to FIG. 7, the array 21 is shown connected

cells represented by solar cells 20Al, 20A2, 20A3, 20A4,

20A5 through 20A are coupled to form the single a/c junction
terminal A01, while any number of solar cells represented by
solar cells 20B], 20B2, 20B3, 20B4, 20B5 through 20B are
coupled to form the single a/c junction terminal Bout, thereby
forming a solar cell pair. The solar cells 20 are shown
connected in parallel to increase the amperage and maintain

the voltage. Connecting the solar cells 20 in series would

increase the voltage and maintain the amperage. In FIG. 3, the
solar cell array 21 is wired to produce single phase a/c elec
tricity. Each solar cell pair of the array 21 has the ?rst and
second a/cjunctions 60, 61 which can be seen in FIG. 5 to be
connected to provide a single a/ c junction 56, 58. As such one

of the output terminals 46, 48 would provide the single phase

a/c electricity.
[0054] The connections 24 to and from the phase synchro

appreciated that the rotational movement of the disc 15 from

point shown in FIG. 8D to that shown in FIG. 8E gradually

niZer 40, as best discerned in FIG. 5, provide a/c output from

exposes and covers the solar cells, as described above, to

the phase synchroniZer and signal input to the phase synchro

create the gradual and not stepped a/c waveform as depicted

in the graph of FIG. 8E. FIG. 8E completes a full cycle of the
a/c waveform.
[0050] Referring back to FIG. 3, the total number of solar

niZer. Terminals 46 and 48 provide a/c electricity output.

Terminal 51 provides a shared signal input, while terminal 52
provide a commercial signal input. These can be used by the

phase synchroniZer to regulate the present a/c generator.

cells 20 must be an even number since two solar cells 20 are

[0055]

utiliZed to provide a solar cell pair having a single a/c junc

tion. Multiple solar cell pairs are connected together to

of the motor control portion of the phase synchroniZer 40.

Motor speed is controlled in order to adjust the rotation rate of

increase the voltage or amperage depending on the connec

the disc 15 to provide a correct phase. As discerned in FIGS.

2 and 3, the present solar cell a/ c electricity generator 10

tion. Connection of all of the solar cell pairs of the array 21

FIG. 9 is a schematic of an exemplary embodiment

produces a single phase a/c waveform. The solar cell pairs

includes three (3) photo or opto transistors 30, 32, and 34 that

may use three connected banks of solar cells pairs to achieve

a three-phase a/c waveform. In FIG. 3, since the total number

are situated proximate one solar cell 20. Particularly, a ?rst

of solar cell pairs is ?fteen (15) they all can be connected to

form a single phase a/c waveform, or they can be divided into
three (3) banks of ?ve (5) solar cell pairs each to achieve a

three-phase a/c/ waveform.

phototransistor 30 is positioned ahead of the solar cell 201,

(see FIG. 3) as per counterclockwise rotation of the disc 15. A
second phototransistor 32 is positioned at the middle of the
solar cell 20P, while a third phototransistor 34 is positioned at
the end of the solar cell 20P. The ?rst, second and third

US 2010/0072823 A1

phototransistors 30, 32, 34 Work to provide a signal to control

the motor Which controls the rate of rotation of the disc 15

Which controls the frequency of the generated a/ c electricity.

Although 60 HZ is shoWn as an input (a predetermined oper

ating frequency) to the phase synchroniZer, other frequencies

can be generated and synchroniZed by the present solar cell

a/c electricity generator 10. The inputted signal provides

poWer for the phototransistors 30, 32, 34 through transistor
T1. The phototransistors detect phase of the Waveform
through rotation of the disc 15 and, particularly the cutouts 16
and/ or the coverings 18 relative to the phototransistors 30, 32,
34.

[0056] The phototransistor 30 provides a sloW phase signal,

the phototransistor 32 provides an in-phase signal, While the
phototransistor 34 provides a fast phase signal. The pho
totransistors provide their signals to the signal conditioning
netWork TNWh1Ch, in turn, provides a signal to the motor 26.

Phototransistor 30 connects through transistor T2, While pho

totransistor 34 connects through transistor T3. An in-phase
LED 68 is provided for indicated When the Waveform is in
phase. As Well, a bank of LEDs 770 may be provided to

provide visual indication of phase. It should also be appreci

ated that the resistor R1 and R2 may be variable resistors if
desired to provide adjustment to the signal conditioning net
Work TN.

Mar. 25, 2010

What is claimed is:

1. A device for generating alternating current electricity

comprising:
a base;

a plurality of solar cell pairs supported on the base, each

solar cell pair connected in anti-parallel and de?ning an
a/ c junction, the plurality of solar cells connected to each
other through their a/c junctions, the a/c junction con
nection de?ning a ?rst a/c output terminal as one half of
the a/c junction connection and a second a/c output as

another half of the a/ c junction connection;

a motor supported by the base; and
a disc coupled to the motor for rotation by the motor, the
disc having a plurality of spaced apart cutouts de?ning a
series of openings and continuities, the disc situated over
the plurality of solar cell pairs such that rotation of the
disc by the motor rotates the openings and continuities
alternately over the plurality of solar cell pairs Whereby
alternating current electricity is generated at the ?rst and
second a/c output terminals.
2. The device of claim 1, Wherein the motor comprises a
direct current motor.

3. The device of claim 2, Wherein the motor is operated by

a motor solar cell.

of operation of the present solar cell a/c electricity generator

10. Through use of the photocell 42, the light intensity is

4. The device of claim 1, Wherein the plurality of solar cell

pairs are connected to provide single phase alternating cur
rent electricity.
5. The device of claim 1, Wherein the plurality of solar cell
pairs are connected to provide three phase alternating current

checked via the light sensor 102. If there is loW light or no

electricity.

[0057]

FIG. 10 is a How chart 100 ofan exemplary manner

light, the generator 10 goes into a timed standby 104. At the

6. The device of claim 1, further comprising a phase syn

102. If there is su?icient light, the phase choice is started 106.

chroniZer operable to adjust phase of the alternating current

electricity generated at the ?rst and second a/c output termi

It should be appreciated that the check light intensity portion

nals relative to a reference phase.

end of the standby period, light intensity is checked again

may be excluded When there is a sWitched on and off. After

7. The device of claim 6, Wherein the phase synchroniZer

the start of phase choice 106, it is determined Whether a

commercial signal is detected 108. If no, then it is determined

utiliZes phototransistors for determining phase of the rotating

Whether it is a shared signal 110. If yes then on to motor

8. An alternating current electricity generator comprising:

control 114. If no, then it is determined Whether the signal is

an internal signal 112. Motor control 114 is then started if it is.
If a commercial signal is detected at 108, then motor control
114 is started.
[0058] Once motor control is started, it is determined
Whether phase match is reached 116. If yes, then the generator
10 Will connect to a load 118. If no, then phasing is adjusted
120. Thereafter, it is determined When phase match is reached
in order to connect to load 118. Also, there may be a periodic
check or ongoing check to determine phase match With a
possible disconnect of the load if phase match is not occur

ring.

disc.
a base,

a motor supported by the base;

a plurality of solar cell pairs formed by ?rst and second
solar cells connected in anti-parallel and forming a tWo
terminal a/c junction, the plurality of solar cell pairs
connected to each other via their tWo terminal a/ c junc
tions to de?ne a ?rst a/c electricity output terminal and a

second a/c electricity output terminal; and

a disc carried for rotation by the motor, the disc having a

plurality of spaced apart cutouts de?ning an annular

sequence of openings and continuities, the openings
alloWing sunlight to pass therethrough While the conti

It should also be appreciated that the present solar

nuities prohibit sunlight from passing therethrough, the

cell a/c electricity generator 10 may be one of a plurality of

solar cell a/c electricity generators that can form a poWer
station or any Wattage assembly. A plurality of solar cell a/c
electricity generators may be connected as desired to provide

annular sequence of openings and continuities situated

to alternately gradually expose then shade the ?rst and
second solar cells of each one of the plurality of solar cell

[0059]

various poWer con?gurations.

[0060]

While the invention has been illustrated and

described in detail in the draWings and foregoing description,

the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive

in character, it being understood that only a preferred embodi

pairs While the disc is rotating, to produce alternating

current electricity at the ?rst and second a/c electricity
output terminals.
9. The alternating current electricity generator of claim 8,
further comprising a further solar cell connected so as to
poWer the motor.

ment has been shoWn and described and that all changes and

10. The alternating current electricity generator of claim 9,

modi?cations that come Within the spirit of the invention are

Wherein the plurality of solar cell pairs are connected to

desired to be protected.

provide single phase alternating current electricity.