DEVICE FOR HARVESTING DIRECT LIGHT AND DIFFUSE LIGHT FROM A LIGHT SOURCE

摘要

Device for harvesting light from a light source, comprising: First photovoltaic cell having an upper surface, a lower surface, and an array of optical passages therein. Array of optical concentrating elements above the upper surface defining a light acceptance area, each being associated with one of the optical passages, and being structured/arranged to concentrate direct light towards theretowards. Concentrated direct light passing through the first photovoltaic cell via an optical passage and exiting as a non-parallel light beam. Array of optical redirecting elements below the lower surface, each being associated with one of the optical passages; each receiving the light beam from the optical passage with which it is associated and redirecting it optically towards a second photovoltaic cell. Diffuse light passing through the array of optical concentrating elements to upper surface of first photovoltaic cell. Second photovoltaic cell having an active area being smaller than the light acceptance area.