Photovoltaic array utilizing phyllotaxic architecture

摘要

An array of photovoltaic panels comprising a plurality of primary branches extending radially outwardly from a central trunk, and a plurality of photovoltaic panels joined to the primary branches, wherein the primary branches extend outwardly from the trunk in a spiral arrangement having a ratio of x turns around the trunk for every y primary branches. The ratio of x:y may be derived from a phyllotaxic arrangement of branches and leaves on a plant. X may be a Fibonacci number, with y being its Fibonacci second successor. The ratio of x/y may be selected from certain Fibonacci ratios, including 1/3, 2/5, 3/8, and 5/13. A method of converting electromagnetic radiation to electrical energy, and a method of making a device for converting electromagnetic radiation to electrical energy in accordance with the invention are also disclosed.

主权项

1. A photovoltaic energy apparatus comprising:
a) a plurality of primary branches extending radially outwardly from a central trunk in a spiral arrangement having a ratio of x turns around the trunk for every y primary branches; and b) a plurality of photovoltaic panels joined to a plurality of corresponding adjustable mounting fixtures joined to the primary branches, each of the photovoltaic panels defining a panel plane and joined to one of the plurality of primary branches by a corresponding one of the plurality of adjustable mounting fixtures comprising a first member joined to the one of the plurality of primary branches, an intermediate hinge piece pivotably joined to the first member, and a second member joined to the photovoltaic panel and pivotably joined to the intermediate hinge piece;wherein for each photovoltaic panel, the corresponding adjustable mounting fixture is operable to enable adjustment of an inclination angle of the panel plane of the photovoltaic panel with respect to a horizontal plane, and adjustment of the panel plane with respect to the radially outward direction from the central trunk; and wherein the inclination angle of the panel planes of the photovoltaic panels with respect to the horizontal plane, and the directions of the panel planes with respect to the radially outward direction from the central trunk are each individually adjusted to provide the plurality of photovoltaic panels with a range of inclination angles with respect to the horizontal plane of between zero and ninety degrees, and a range of directions of the panel planes radially outwardly between zero and 360 degrees around the central trunk.