Power beaming system and method with wavelength control

Abstract

Power beaming systems and methods are disclosed. Embodiments of the method may include transmitting a beam from a transmitter during a beam emission period; receiving the beam in a photovoltaic receiver configured to convert the beam into power based on a conversion efficiency response having a peak conversion efficiency wavelength; and controlling the emission wavelength of the transmitted beam based on a change in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength due to a change in the receiver temperature during the beam emission period caused by the beam or ambient heating. In some embodiments, controlling the beam emission wavelength includes changing the beam emission wavelength during the beam emission period to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength when the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes due to a change in the receiver temperature.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (Related Patent Application) This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 580,565 filed on September 5, 2023, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety into the present specification.

[0002] (Field of the Invention) The present technical field relates to power beaming, and in particular, to power beaming systems and methods having wavelength control capability. [Background Art]

[0003] Power beaming, which is a form of point-to-point wireless power transmission, uses directed beams of electromagnetic radiation such as laser beams and microwave beams to transmit electrical energy from a transmitter to a receiver, often over considerable distances (e.g., hundreds of kilometers, or even thousands of kilometers). In particular, laser power beaming offers the potential for high intensity, low divergence, and long-distance transmission, and has applications spanning various fields and industries both on Earth and in space. In these systems, a laser transmitter emits laser radiation towards a photovoltaic (PV) receiver configured to capture the laser radiation and convert it into electricity. Despite continuous progress, many challenges remain in the field of power beaming. [Summary of the Invention]

[0004] The present specification relates to power beaming systems and methods that control the wavelength of a beam emitted by a transmitter to match fluctuations in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength of a receiver when the receiver's temperature fluctuates due to beam heating and / or changes in ambient temperature. In some implementations, since the beam wavelength changes over time due to temperature fluctuations of the receiver, the beam wavelength is adjusted during the beam emission period so as to match the peak conversion efficiency wavelength or reduce the mismatch therebetween.

[0005] According to another embodiment, During the beam emission period, the beam transmitter transmits the beam, During the beam emission period, a photovoltaic (PV) receiver is configured to convert the transmitted beam into power according to the conversion efficiency response of the PV receiver, and the conversion efficiency response has a peak conversion efficiency wavelength, and the transmitted beam is received in the PV receiver. A power beaming method is provided which includes determining the beam emission wavelength of a transmitted beam transmitted by a beam transmitter according to a change in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength that occurs during the beam emission period and results from a change in the temperature of the PV receiver.

[0006] In some embodiments, the transmitting beam is a laser beam.

[0007] In some embodiments, at least one of the beam transmitter or PV receiver is located in outer space. In some embodiments, at least one of the beam transmitter or PV receiver is located on land, on water, or in the air.

[0008] In some embodiments, the PV receiver includes an array of PV cells. In some embodiments, the PV cells include single-junction PV cells. In some embodiments, the PV cells include multi-junction PV cells.

[0009] In some embodiments, the PV receiver includes a semiconductor material having a bandgap energy, and the change in peak conversion efficiency wavelength is due to a temperature-induced change in the bandgap energy.

[0010] In some embodiments, the beam transmitter and the PV receiver are separated from each other by a beam transmission distance ranging from approximately 40 km to approximately 200 km.

[0011] In some embodiments, the beam emission wavelength is within a wavelength band ranging from approximately 400 nm to approximately 2500 nm.

[0012] In some embodiments, the beam emission period has a duration ranging from about 1 minute to about 10 minutes.

[0013] In some embodiments, the temperature change of the PV receiver is at least partially due to beam heating. In some embodiments, the temperature change of the PV receiver is at least partially due to ambient heating or cooling.

[0014] In some embodiments, the transmitting beam has a heterogeneous irradiance profile with a higher intensity at the center of the transmitting beam and a radially decreasing intensity away from the center, and the beam emission wavelength is controlled based on the change in peak conversion efficiency wavelength in the region of the PV receiver irradiated by the center of the transmitting beam.

[0015] In some embodiments, controlling the beam emission wavelength of the transmitting beam includes managing heat generation within the PV receiver to adjust heat transfer between the PV receiver and the asset coupled to the PV receiver. In some embodiments, the asset includes a stationary device. In some embodiments, the asset includes a mobile device.

[0016] In some embodiments, controlling the beam emission wavelength involves changing the beam emission wavelength during the beam emission period to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength when the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes over time due to changes in the temperature of the PV receiver.

[0017] In some embodiments, varying the beam emission wavelength includes shifting the beam emission wavelength by about 10 nm to about 100 nm over the beam emission period. In some embodiments, varying the beam emission wavelength includes adjusting the beam emission wavelength in increments in the range of about 0.1 nm to about 10 nm.

[0018] In some embodiments, the power beaming method further includes providing wavelength variation information relating to the expected variation over time of the peak conversion efficiency wavelength during the beam emission period, and changing the beam emission wavelength according to the wavelength variation information. In some embodiments, providing wavelength variation information includes performing a calibration operation to determine the expected variation over time of the peak conversion efficiency wavelength. In some embodiments, providing wavelength variation information includes providing a model for predicting the expected variation of the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

[0019] In some embodiments, changing the beam emission wavelength includes adjusting the beam emission wavelength at a rate proportional to the intensity of the transmitted beam.

[0020] In some embodiments, the power beaming method further includes monitoring the temperature of the PV receiver over time for at least a portion of the beam emission period, and changing the beam emission wavelength based on the monitored temperature.

[0021] In some embodiments, the power beaming method further includes monitoring parameters of the conversion efficiency response of a PV receiver over time during at least a portion of the beam emission period, and changing the beam emission wavelength based on the monitored parameters. In some embodiments, the monitored parameters include the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

[0022] In some embodiments, varying the beam emission wavelength includes continuously adjusting the beam emission wavelength during all or part of the beam emission period. In some embodiments, varying the beam emission wavelength includes intermittently adjusting the beam emission wavelength during all or part of the beam emission period. In some embodiments, intermittently adjusting the beam emission wavelength includes changing the beam emission wavelength at a single point or interval during the beam emission period. In some embodiments, intermittently adjusting the beam emission wavelength includes changing the beam emission wavelength at multiple distinct points or intervals during the beam emission period.

[0023] In some embodiments, changing the beam emission wavelength includes increasing the beam emission wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength increases due to an increase in the temperature of the PV receiver.

[0024] In some embodiments, changing the beam emission wavelength includes reducing the beam emission wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength decreases due to a decrease in the temperature of the PV receiver.

[0025] In some embodiments, changing the beam emission wavelength includes changing the beam emission wavelength linearly as a function of time.

[0026] In some embodiments, varying the beam emission wavelength includes reducing the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength over the entire beam emission period. In some embodiments, varying the beam emission wavelength includes reducing the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength over a portion of the beam emission period. In some embodiments, a portion of the beam emission period begins after the start time of the beam emission period and ends at the end time of the beam emission period.

[0027] In some embodiments, varying the beam emission wavelength includes minimizing the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

[0028] In some embodiments, controlling the beam emission wavelength involves setting the beam emission wavelength at or before the start of the beam emission period to match the expected peak conversion efficiency wavelength at a later time in the beam emission period. In some embodiments, the later time is the end time of the beam emission period.

[0029] According to one aspect, A beam transmitter configured to transmit a beam during the beam emission period, A photovoltaic (PV) receiver is configured to receive a transmitted beam from a beam transmitter during the beam emission period and to convert the transmitted beam into power according to the conversion efficiency response of the photovoltaic (PV) receiver, wherein the conversion efficiency response has a peak conversion efficiency wavelength. A power beaming system is provided, comprising a transmitter controller operably coupled to a beam transmitter, the transmitter controller comprising a processor and a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform an operation, wherein the operation includes determining the beam emission wavelength of a transmitted beam transmitted by the beam transmitter in accordance with changes in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength resulting from changes in the temperature of a PV receiver, which occur during the beam emission period.

[0030] In some embodiments, the beam transmitter includes a laser source configured to emit a transmitted beam as a laser beam.

[0031] In some embodiments, at least one of the beam transmitter or PV receiver is configured for operation in outer space. In some embodiments, at least one of the beam transmitter or PV receiver is configured for operation on land, water, or in the air.

[0032] In some embodiments, the PV receiver includes an array of PV cells. In some embodiments, the PV cells include single-junction PV cells. In some embodiments, the PV cells include multi-junction PV cells.

[0033] In some embodiments, the PV receiver includes a semiconductor material having a bandgap energy, and the change in peak conversion efficiency wavelength is due to a temperature-induced change in the bandgap energy.

[0034] In some embodiments, the beam transmitter and the PV receiver are separated from each other by a beam transmission distance ranging from approximately 40 km to approximately 200 km.

[0035] In some embodiments, the beam emission wavelength is within a wavelength band ranging from approximately 400 nm to approximately 2500 nm.

[0036] In some embodiments, the beam emission period has a duration ranging from about 1 minute to about 10 minutes.

[0037] In some embodiments, the temperature change of the PV receiver is at least partially due to beam heating. In some embodiments, the temperature change of the PV receiver is at least partially due to ambient heating or cooling.

[0038] In some embodiments, the beam transmitter is configured to emit a transmitted beam having a non-uniform irradiance profile, with a higher intensity at the center of the transmitted beam and a radially decreasing intensity as it moves away from the center, and the beam emission wavelength is controlled based on the change in peak conversion efficiency wavelength in the region of the PV receiver irradiated by the center of the transmitted beam.

[0039] In some embodiments, the operation to control the beam emission wavelength of the transmitted beam includes managing heat generation within the PV receiver to adjust heat transfer between the PV receiver and an asset coupled to the PV receiver. In some embodiments, the asset includes a stationary device. In some embodiments, the asset includes a mobile device.

[0040] In some embodiments, the operation to control the beam emission wavelength includes changing the beam emission wavelength during the beam emission period to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength when the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes over time due to changes in the temperature of the PV receiver.

[0041] In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to shift the beam emission wavelength by approximately 10 nm to approximately 100 nm over the beam emission period. In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to adjust the beam emission wavelength in increments ranging from approximately 0.1 nm to approximately 10 nm.

[0042] In some embodiments, the operations performed by the processor further include providing wavelength variation information relating to the expected variation over time of the peak conversion efficiency wavelength during the beam emission period, and changing the beam emission wavelength according to the wavelength variation information. In some embodiments, the operation of providing wavelength variation information includes performing a calibration operation to determine the expected variation over time of the peak conversion efficiency wavelength. In some embodiments, the operation of providing wavelength variation information includes providing a model that predicts the expected variation over time of the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

[0043] In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to adjust the beam emission wavelength at a rate proportional to the intensity of the transmitted beam.

[0044] In some embodiments, the power beaming system further includes a monitoring device operably coupled to a transmitter controller and configured to monitor the temperature of a PV receiver over time for at least a portion of the beam emission period, the transmitter controller configured to change the beam emission wavelength based on the monitored temperature.

[0045] In some embodiments, the power beaming system further includes a monitoring device operably coupled to a transmitter controller and configured to monitor over time parameters of the PV receiver's conversion efficiency response during at least a portion of the beam emission period, the transmitter controller configured to change the beam emission wavelength based on the monitored parameters. In some embodiments, the monitored parameters include the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

[0046] In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to continuously change the beam emission wavelength during all or part of the beam emission period. In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to intermittently change the beam emission wavelength during all or part of the beam emission period. In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to intermittently change the beam emission wavelength at a single point or interval during the beam emission period. In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to intermittently change the beam emission wavelength at a plurality of distinct points or intervals during the beam emission period.

[0047] In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to vary the beam emission wavelength by increasing the beam emission wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength increases due to an increase in the temperature of the PV receiver. In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to vary the beam emission wavelength by decreasing the beam emission wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength decreases due to a decrease in the temperature of the PV receiver.

[0048] In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to linearly change the beam emission wavelength as a function of time.

[0049] In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to vary the beam emission wavelength to reduce discrepancies throughout the entire beam emission period. In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to vary the beam emission wavelength to reduce discrepancies during a portion of the beam emission period. In some embodiments, a portion of the beam emission period begins after the start time of the beam emission period and ends at the end time of the beam emission period.

[0050] In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to vary the beam emission wavelength to minimize the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

[0051] In some embodiments, the operation to control the beam emission wavelength includes setting the beam emission wavelength at or before the start of the beam emission period to match the expected peak conversion efficiency wavelength at a later time in the beam emission period. In some embodiments, the later time is the end time of the beam emission period.

[0052] According to another embodiment, During the beam emission period, the beam transmitter transmits a transmission beam having the beam emission wavelength, A photovoltaic (PV) receiver is configured to convert a transmitted beam into power according to the conversion efficiency response of the PV receiver, wherein the conversion efficiency response has a peak conversion efficiency wavelength, and the PV receiver receives the transmitted beam. A power beaming method is provided which includes changing the beam emission wavelength to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength when the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes over time in response to changes in the temperature of the PV receiver during the beam emission period.

[0053] According to another embodiment, A beam transmitter configured to transmit a transmitting beam during a beam emission period, wherein the transmitting beam has a beam emission wavelength, A photovoltaic (PV) receiver is configured to receive a transmitted beam from a beam transmitter and convert the transmitted beam into power according to the conversion efficiency response of the photovoltaic (PV) receiver, wherein the conversion efficiency response has a peak conversion efficiency wavelength. A power beaming system is provided, comprising a transmitter controller operably coupled to a beam transmitter, the transmitter controller comprising a processor and a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform an operation, the operation of which includes controlling the beam transmitter to change the beam emission wavelength during the beam emission period to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength when the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes over time in response to a change in temperature of a PV receiver.

[0054] According to another embodiment, During the beam emission period, the beam transmitter transmits the beam, During the beam emission period, a photovoltaic (PV) receiver is configured to convert the transmitted beam into power according to the conversion efficiency response of the PV receiver, and the conversion efficiency response has a peak conversion efficiency wavelength, and the transmitted beam is received in the PV receiver. A power beaming method is provided which includes determining the beam emission wavelength of a transmitted beam transmitted by a beam transmitter according to a change in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength that occurs during the beam emission period and results from a change in the temperature of the PV receiver.

[0055] In some embodiments, the transmitting beam is a laser beam.

[0056] In some embodiments, at least one of the beam transmitter or PV receiver is located in outer space. In other embodiments, at least one of the beam transmitter or PV receiver is located on land, on water, or in the air.

[0057] In some embodiments, the PV receiver includes an array of PV cells, such as single-junction PV cells or multi-junction PV cells.

[0058] In some embodiments, the PV receiver includes a semiconductor material, and the change in peak conversion efficiency wavelength is related to the temperature-induced change in the bandgap energy of the semiconductor material.

[0059] In some embodiments, determining the beam emission wavelength includes varying the beam emission wavelength during the beam emission period to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength when the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes over time in response to changes in the temperature of the PV receiver. In some embodiments, varying the beam emission wavelength includes varying the beam emission wavelength at a rate proportional to the beam intensity of the transmitted beam. In some embodiments, varying the beam emission wavelength includes increasing the beam emission wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength increases over time in response to an increase in the temperature of the PV receiver. In some embodiments, varying the beam emission wavelength includes decreasing the beam emission wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength decreases over time in response to a decrease in the temperature of the PV receiver.

[0060] In some embodiments, determining the beam emission wavelength involves setting the beam emission wavelength to match the peak conversion efficiency wavelength at the start time of the beam emission period, or before the start time, or at a time after the beam emission period, for example, at the end time of the beam emission period.

[0061] According to another embodiment, A beam transmitter configured to transmit a beam during the beam emission period, A photovoltaic (PV) receiver is configured to receive a transmitted beam from a beam transmitter during the beam emission period and to convert the transmitted beam into power according to the conversion efficiency response of the photovoltaic (PV) receiver, wherein the conversion efficiency response has a peak conversion efficiency wavelength. A power beaming system is provided, comprising a transmitter controller operably coupled to a beam transmitter, the transmitter controller comprising a processor and a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform an operation, wherein the operation includes determining the beam emission wavelength of a transmitted beam transmitted by the beam transmitter in accordance with changes in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength resulting from changes in the temperature of a PV receiver, which occur during the beam emission period.

[0062] In some embodiments, the transmitter includes a laser source configured to emit a transmission beam as a laser beam.

[0063] In some embodiments, at least one of the beam transmitter or PV receiver is configured for operation in outer space. In some embodiments, at least one of the beam transmitter or PV receiver is configured for operation on land, water, or in the air.

[0064] In some embodiments, the PV receiver includes an array of PV cells, such as single-junction PV cells or multi-junction PV cells.

[0065] In some embodiments, the PV receiver includes a semiconductor material, and the change in peak conversion efficiency wavelength is related to the temperature-induced change in the bandgap energy of the semiconductor material.

[0066] In some embodiments, the operation of determining the beam emission wavelength includes changing the beam emission wavelength to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes over time in response to changes in the temperature of the PV receiver during the beam emission period. In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to change the beam emission wavelength at a rate proportional to the beam intensity of the transmitted beam. In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to change the beam emission wavelength by increasing the beam emission wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength increases over time in response to an increase in the temperature of the PV receiver. In some embodiments, the transmitter controller is configured to change the beam emission wavelength by decreasing the beam emission wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength decreases over time in response to a decrease in the temperature of the PV receiver.

[0067] In some embodiments, the operation of determining the beam emission wavelength includes setting the beam emission wavelength to match the peak conversion efficiency wavelength at the start time of the beam emission period, or before the start time, and at a time after the beam emission period, for example, at the end time of the beam emission period.

[0068] According to another embodiment, During the beam emission period, the beam transmitter transmits a transmission beam having the beam emission wavelength, A photovoltaic (PV) receiver is configured to convert a transmitted beam into power according to the conversion efficiency response of the PV receiver, wherein the conversion efficiency response has a peak conversion efficiency wavelength, and the PV receiver receives the transmitted beam. A power beaming method is provided which includes changing the beam emission wavelength to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength when the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes over time in response to changes in the temperature of the PV receiver during the beam emission period.

[0069] According to another embodiment, A beam transmitter configured to transmit a transmitting beam during a beam emission period, wherein the transmitting beam has a beam emission wavelength, A photovoltaic (PV) receiver is configured to receive a transmitted beam from a beam transmitter and convert the transmitted beam into power according to the conversion efficiency response of the photovoltaic (PV) receiver, wherein the conversion efficiency response has a peak conversion efficiency wavelength. A power beaming system is provided, comprising a transmitter controller operably coupled to a beam transmitter, the transmitter controller comprising a processor and a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform an operation, the operation of which includes controlling the beam transmitter to change the beam emission wavelength during the beam emission period to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength when the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes over time in response to a change in temperature of a PV receiver.

[0070] Other methods and process steps may be performed before, during, or after the steps described herein. The order of one or more steps may differ, and in some cases, some steps may be omitted, repeated, and / or combined. It should also be noted that some steps may be performed using various analysis and processing techniques that can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof.

[0071] Other purposes, features, and advantages of this description will become more apparent by reading the following non-limiting description of its particular embodiments, which are shown merely as examples with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that while certain features described in the above summary and the following detailed description may be described in relation to a particular embodiment or aspect, these features may be combined with each other unless otherwise noted. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0072] [Figure 1] This is a flowchart of a power beaming method according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram of a power beaming system according to another embodiment. [Figure 3] This illustrates an exemplary power beaming scenario in which the beam emission wavelength λbeam changes during the beam emission period to reduce the mismatch with the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λpeak. [Figure 4] This illustrates an exemplary power beaming scenario in which the beam emission wavelength λbeam is initially set to be longer than the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λpeak to help warm the PV receiver, followed by subsequent tuning to match and adjust λbeam with the temperature-induced shift at λpeak. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of a power beaming system according to another embodiment. [Figure 6] This illustrates an exemplary power beaming scenario in which the beam emission wavelength λbeam is set before the start of the beam emission period to correspond to the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λpeak at the end of the beam emission period. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram of a power beaming system according to another embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0073] This specification relates to a power beaming technique that enables control and adjustment of the radiation wavelength of a beam transmitter in response to temperature-induced variations in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength of a photovoltaic (PV) receiver. These variations arise from beam heating and / or ambient temperature fluctuations. In some embodiments, when a PV receiver is irradiated during the beam emission period, its temperature gradually rises, resulting in a corresponding rise in the energy bandgap of the receiver's PV material and thus altering the optimal radiation wavelength of the beam transmitter. To compensate for these temperature-induced changes at the optimal radiation wavelength, certain embodiments incorporate time-dependent adjustments to the radiation wavelength to maintain it near its optimal value as the optimal value changes over the duration of the beam emission period. Such wavelength adjustments are well suited to satellite-based flyby power beaming applications, which often involve short-duration, high-intensity power beaming operations.

[0074] The disclosed technology is applicable across a wide range of fields and industries where improved power transmission via beaming is desired or required. Non-limiting examples include space-based solar power, space and celestial exploration and mining, Earth orbit applications, telecommunications, land and air transport, climate and environmental monitoring, remote area power supply, post-disaster relief and recovery, and energy decarbonization. The technology can be implemented in a variety of environments and settings, including on Earth or within Earth's atmosphere (including ground, ocean, and air applications), in space, or on other celestial bodies such as the Moon or other planets.

[0075] Various aspects and implementations of this technology are described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0076] Referring to Figure 1, a flowchart of a power beaming method 100 according to one embodiment is shown. The method 100 shown in Figure 1 can be implemented in a power beaming system 200 as shown in the embodiment of Figure 2, or in another suitable power beaming system. The power beaming system 200 generally includes a beam transmitter 202, a PV receiver 204 optically coupled to the beam transmitter, and a transmitter controller 206 operably coupled to the beam transmitter 202. The beam transmitter 202 is configured to transmit a transmit beam 208, such as a laser beam, during the beam emission period. The PV receiver 204 is configured to receive the transmit beam 208 during the beam emission period and convert it into power. The transmitter controller 206 includes a processor 210 and a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium or memory 212. The memory 212 stores computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor 210, cause the processor 210 to perform operations that control the beam transmitter 202.

[0077] The power beaming system 200 can be used in a variety of power beaming configurations both on and beyond Earth. Non-limiting examples of such configurations include Earth-Earth, space-Earth, Earth-space, space-space, Moon-Moon, space-Moon, and Moon-Space power beaming. In some embodiments, the beam transmitter 202 and the PV receiver 204 may be separated from each other by a beam transmission distance ranging from about 1 or several hundred meters to about 1 or several hundred kilometers, for example, from about 40 km to about 200 km, although distances (these ranges) may be used in other embodiments. Furthermore, either or both of the beam transmitter 202 and the PV receiver 204 may be configured for operation in outer space, or alternatively, for operation on land, on water, or in the air on Earth, the Moon, another planet, or another celestial body. For example, in a solar-based photovoltaic application, the beam transmitter 202 may be located in outer space (e.g., on a satellite), while the PV receiver 204 may be located on Earth (a ground-based location).

[0078] In some embodiments, the beam transmitter 202 and the PV receiver 204 may be mounted, integrated, or otherwise provided on their respective transmitter and receiver platforms (not shown in Figure 2). The term “platform” broadly encompasses any suitable type of land, water, air, or space device, vehicle, infrastructure, or equipment, whether manned or unmanned, mobile or fixed, on which the beam transmitter 202 and PV receiver 204 may be installed during power beam irradiation operations. Non-limiting examples of platforms that can be used in space-based power beaming applications include launchers, landers, rovers, satellites, space probes, spaceplanes, space capsules, and space stations.

[0079] The structure, configuration, and operation of these and other possible components of the Power Beaming System 200 are detailed below. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram intended to illustrate the various components and features of the Power Beaming System 200, and it should be understood that additional components and features that may be useful or beneficial to its actual operation may not be shown. Non-limiting examples of such additional features and components include optical components such as lenses, mirrors, and optical filters.

[0080] Referring to both Figures 1 and 2, Method 100 may include step 102 of transmitting a transmit beam 208 from a beam transmitter 202 during a beam emission period. The beam transmitter 202 may include a light source 214 configured to generate the transmit beam 208 and a transmitter adjustment optical system 216 configured to adjust the transmit beam 208 before it leaves the beam transmitter 202. In some embodiments, the beam emission period may range from about one minute to about several tens of minutes, but in other embodiments, other durations may be used.

[0081] The terms “light” and “optical,” along with their variations and derivatives, encompass radiation across any suitable region of the electromagnetic spectrum. This includes not only visible light but also invisible regions such as the microwave (MW), terahertz (THz), infrared (IR), and ultraviolet (UV) spectral bands.

[0082] The light source 214 can be any device or combination of devices capable of generating a transmit beam 208 having characteristics suitable for power beaming according to this technology. In some embodiments, the light source 214 is a laser source configured to emit the transmit beam 208 as a laser beam. For example, the light source 214 may be a high-power tunable single-mode laser source configured to emit the transmit beam 208 as a collimated (e.g., nearly diffraction-limited) narrowband (e.g., quasi-monochromatic) laser beam that can travel long distances due to its low beam divergence. Non-limiting examples of laser sources used for power beaming applications include solid-state lasers, including bulk crystal lasers and fiber lasers; semiconductor lasers, including laser diodes; and gas lasers, including carbon dioxide lasers and chemical oxygen iodine lasers and dye lasers. However, in other embodiments, non-laser light sources such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) may also be used. Depending on the specific application, the light source 214 may operate in a continuous wave or pulse regime, and may or may not be modulated. The selection of the light source 214 may be based on various factors, including operating wavelength, beam irradiance, spatial, temporal, and spectral beam profiles, beam quality and divergence, coherence, compactness, reliability, and durability, and, for pulsed light sources, pulse characteristics such as peak power, repetition rate, duration, and temporal shape. The theory, instrumentation, and operation of beam transmitters used in conventional power beaming applications are generally known in the art and do not need to be described in detail herein unless necessary to understand this technique.

[0083] In some embodiments, the light source 214 emits a beam wavelength λ within a wavelength band ranging from approximately 400 nm to approximately 2500 nm, encompassing the visible or near-infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. beam It is configured to emit a transmitting beam 208 having (for example, a central wavelength) λ. For example, in some cases, the beam emission wavelength λ beam The wavelength range may be approximately 500 nm to approximately 1500 nm (e.g., approximately 1000 nm to approximately 1110 nm), or approximately 1900 nm to approximately 2100 nm. However, the technology can operate outside these ranges, including shorter wavelengths (e.g., UV power beaming) or longer wavelengths (e.g., mid-IR, far-IR, THz, and MW power beaming). Furthermore, all descriptions provided herein as a function of wavelength can also be formulated as a function of frequency, wavenumber, energy, or other relevant spectral parameters.

[0084] In some embodiments, the light source 214 is configured to emit a transmitting beam 208 having a non-uniform irradiance profile, such as a Gaussian or quasi-Gaussian profile, which has a higher intensity at the beam center and a radially decreasing intensity as it moves away from the beam center. However, in other embodiments, other irradiance profiles may also be used, including a substantially uniform irradiance profile and a non-Gaussian irradiance profile (e.g., a flat-top profile).

[0085] The transmitter tuning optical system 216 may include any optical components or combinations of optical components that can shape, focus, concentrate, filter, steer, collimate, magnify, or otherwise act on the transmit beam 208 to achieve accurate, efficient, and safe beamed power transmission. Non-limiting examples of optical components of the transmitter tuning optical system 216 include lenses, prisms, mirrors, diffraction gratings, and optical filters. Some of these components may function as a beam expander (e.g., a telescope) or a beam steering or pointing device. The theory, instrumentation, and operation of transmitter tuning optical systems used in conventional power beaming applications are generally known in the art and do not need to be described in detail herein except as necessary to understand this technique.

[0086] The method 100 shown in Figure 1 also includes step 104, which includes receiving the transmitted beam 208 in a PV receiver 204 during the beam emission period and converting the transmitted beam 208 into power based on the conversion efficiency response of the PV receiver 204.

[0087] The PV receiver 204 shown in Figure 2 may include an array of PV cells 218. The PV cells 218 can be based on any suitable PV cell technology and may have various sizes, shapes, compositions, structures and configurations (e.g., fill factor, cell packing density, array shape), as well as electrical and thermal properties and circuit arrangements. In some embodiments, the PV cells 218 may be designed for use on Earth, and in other embodiments, the PV cells 218 may be configured for use in space or other extraterrestrial environments. In certain embodiments, the PV cells 218 may include single-junction PV cells, and in other embodiments, they may include multi-junction cells such as vertical multi-junction (VMJ) cells. Multi-junction PV cells include stacks of PV material, each layer generally having different bandgap energies tuned to the photoelectron conversion of photons in different energy ranges.

[0088] The PV cell 218 may be composed of a variety of PV materials, including both direct bandgap semiconductor materials and indirect bandgap semiconductor materials that can absorb light and convert it into electricity. Non-limiting examples of possible PV materials include silicon (e.g., single crystal, polycrystalline, or amorphous silicon), germanium, III-V semiconductors and related alloys (e.g., GaAs, InP, InGaAs, InGaP, GaInP, InAlGaAs, InGaAsP, GaAlInAsSb), thin-film PV materials (e.g., CdTe, CIGS), and organic PV materials. The theory, instrumentation, and operation of PV cells are generally known in the art and do not need to be described in detail herein except as necessary to understand this technique.

[0089] The PV receiver 204 may also include a receiver tuning optical system 220 configured to collect, shape, concentrate, focus, guide, homogenize, or otherwise act on the transmit beam 208 before it reaches the PV cell 218. Non-limiting examples of optical components for the receiver tuning optical system 220 include lenses, prisms, mirrors, diffraction gratings, and optical filters. The theory, instrumentation, and operation of receiver tuning optical systems used in conventional power beaming applications are well known in the art and do not need to be described in detail herein except as necessary to understand this technique.

[0090] Referring further to Figures 1 and 2, the photoelectric conversion efficiency of the PV receiver 204 is the beam emission wavelength λ beam And the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ of the conversion efficiency response of the PV receiver 204 peak It depends on the alignment. When the transmitting beam 208 irradiates the PV cell 218, electrical energy is generated if the photon energy of the transmitting beam 208 is greater than or equal to the bandgap energy of the semiconductor material in the PV cell 218. The highest photoelectric conversion efficiency is expected when the photon energy matches or slightly exceeds the bandgap energy. High photoelectric conversion efficiency is achievable when the transmitting beam 208 is monochromatic or sufficiently narrow-band, as in the case of laser power beaming, where the beam emission wavelength λbeam because it allows the energy to strictly match the band gap energy of the PV material, or vice versa. This makes laser power beaming an attractive approach for point-to-point wireless power transmission. In some embodiments, the PV material may have a band gap energy ranging from about 0.5 eV, corresponding to a wavelength of about 2500 nm, to about 2.5 eV, corresponding to a wavelength of about 500 nm, although band gap energy values outside this particular energy range are also possible in other embodiments. The use of band gap-tunable PV materials is also contemplated in certain embodiments, as they can facilitate matching the band gap energy to the energy of incident photons.

[0091] peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak depends not only on the beam emission wavelength λ beam , but also on temperature, particularly at the high irradiance levels typical of laser power beaming. This is because the band gap energy of semiconductor materials changes with temperature, and generally decreases as temperature increases. As a result of these temperature-induced changes in band gap energy, the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak is generally expected to increase as the temperature of the PV receiver 204 rises due to beam heating. In other words, irradiation by the transmit beam 208 increases the temperature of the PV receiver 204 over the beam emission period, gradually reducing the band gap energy of the PV material and increasing the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak . As a result, if the beam emission wavelength λ beam and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak are aligned at the start of the beam emission period, they may progressively become misaligned over the duration of the beam emission period, resulting in suboptimal power beaming performance for all or part of the period.

[0092] In this context, the method 100 of FIG. 1 addresses the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ resulting from changes in temperature of the PV receiver 204 that occur or are expected to occur during the beam emission period peakBased on the change, the beam emission wavelength λ of the transmitting beam 208 transmitted by the beam transmitter 202 beam The procedure includes step 106, which involves controlling the beam heating effect described above, but may also be caused by changes in the ambient temperature surrounding the PV receiver 204 during the beam emission period (i.e., either heating or cooling). It is understood that PV receivers used in power beaming applications may be exposed to a wide range of temperatures, including extreme conditions, particularly in high-altitude and extraterrestrial applications (e.g., in space or on the Moon).

[0093] In some embodiments, the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak The beam emission wavelength λ changes according to the temperature-induced change. beam Step 106, which controls the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak When the beam emission wavelength λ changes over time in response to temperature fluctuations in the PV receiver 204, beam and peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak To reduce the discrepancy between the two, the beam emission wavelength λ during the beam emission period beam This may include changing the beam emission wavelength λ. This is shown in Figure 3, where λ is the beam emission wavelength. beam The peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ is affected by temperature fluctuations in the PV receiver 204 caused by beam heating and / or ambient temperature fluctuations. peak When the wavelength λ changes, the peak conversion efficiency peak It has been shown that the beam emission wavelength λ is adjusted over the duration of the beam emission period to provide agreement with, or at least reduce mismatch. Specifically, the beam emission wavelength λ beam These are, respectively, at time t1.

[0094]

number

[0095]

number

[0096]

number

[0097] As used herein, the expression “reduce discrepancy” refers to the beam emission wavelength λ of the transmitting beam 208. beam and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ of the PV receiver 204 peak This is intended to mean that the temperature-related difference between and is reduced at least partially during at least a portion of the beam emission period. In other words, the expression "reduce mismatch" does not necessarily mean identical match throughout the entire beam emission period, identical match during a portion of the beam emission period, or partial match throughout the entire beam emission period, but rather beam emission wavelength λ beam and peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak The discrepancy between the two means that a variety of scenarios are included in which the beam emission wavelength is reduced, modified, mitigated, suppressed, minimized, or reduced to an appropriate or sufficient degree over an appropriate or sufficient portion of the beam emission period. It is understood that the appropriate or sufficient degree and portion depend on the context or requirements of a given application. For example, in some embodiments, the beam emission wavelength λ beam and peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak Any discrepancy between the two can be considered "reduced" if it does not have a significant or undesirable effect on the operation of the power beaming system 200.

[0098] The light source 214 of the beam transmitter 202 emits a beam with a wavelength λ to implement this technology. beam It is understood that various types of tunable light sources can be used to provide precise control over the beam emission wavelength λ. Non-limiting examples of tunable light sources include various laser and LED light sources. beam Control can be achieved via control signals received from the transmitter controller 206. The theory, instrumentation, and operation of the tunable light source and associated controllers are generally known in the art and do not need to be described in detail herein except as necessary to understand this technique.

[0099] Various implementation forms and scenarios for wavelength tuning are envisioned within the scope of this disclosure. Non-limiting examples of such implementation forms and scenarios are presented below.

[0100] In some embodiments, the transmitter controller 206 shifts the beam emission wavelength λ by a range of approximately 10 nm to approximately 100 nm over the beam emission period. beam It is configured to change the wavelength shift value. In other embodiments, other wavelength shift values ​​can be used. Furthermore, the transmitter controller 206 changes the beam emission wavelength λ in wavelength increments in the range of about 0.1 nm to about 10 nm. beam It can be configured to vary, but other wavelength increment values ​​are also possible.

[0101] The transmitter controller 206 controls the beam emission wavelength λ beam It can be configured to change linearly over time, but nonlinear wavelength changes are also possible.

[0102] In some embodiments, the transmitter controller 206, as shown in Figure 3, emits a beam wavelength λ beam It is configured to vary the beam emission period to reduce discrepancies during all or part of the beam emission period.

[0103] In other embodiments, the transmitter controller 206 controls the beam emission wavelength λ beamBy changing the beam emission wavelength λ, discrepancies during a portion of the beam emission period can be reduced. For example, as shown in Figure 4, this portion may start after the beam emission period has begun and end at a later point, such as the end of the beam emission period. This wavelength tuning scheme helps to warm up the PV receiver by adjusting the beam emission wavelength λ. beam Initially, the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak It can be used when it is desirable for it to exceed (i.e., λ at start time t1) beam >λ peak ). Peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak Subsequently, at a later time t2, the beam emission wavelength λ beam It gradually drifts until it aligns with the beam wavelength λ. beam The peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak It can be adjusted during the remainder of the beam emission period to match the temperature-induced increase (i.e., in t≧t2,

[0104]

number

[0105] In some embodiments, the transmitter controller 206 controls the beam emission wavelength λ during all or part of the beam emission period. beam It is configured to change the beam emission wavelength λ continuously (i.e., without interruption). In other embodiments, the transmitter controller 206 controls the beam emission wavelength λ during all or part of the beam emission period. beam It is configured to change intermittently (i.e., in an on-off manner). This is done at one or more points in time, or at one or more separate time intervals over the entire beam emission period, with the beam emission wavelength λ beam This may include changing the beam emission wavelength λ. In some embodiments, the transmitter controller 206 controls the beam emission wavelength λ. beam This can be configured to vary continuously for part of the beam emission period and intermittently for other parts.

[0106] In some embodiments, the operation performed by the processor 210 is the time-dependent peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ during the beam emission period. peak The system provides wavelength variation information regarding the expected changes in the beam emission wavelength λ via the transmitter controller 206, and based on this wavelength variation information, it provides wavelength variation information. beam This includes changing the wavelength. The method of providing wavelength variation information may vary depending on the specific application.

[0107] In some embodiments, wavelength variation information is used, for example, under conditions representing power beaming operation, to determine the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak The expected variation over time is obtained through a calibration operation designed to be measured or otherwise determined. The peak conversion efficiency of the PV receiver in relation to parameters such as time, temperature, and irradiance level, wavelength λ, is obtained. peak Various techniques can be used to measure it.

[0108] In some embodiments, wavelength variation information is the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peak This can be derived from a model that predicts the expected changes over time. This model may be analytical, numerical, empirical, or any combination thereof.

[0109] In some embodiments, wavelength variation information is provided in real time or near real time during the beam emission period. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the power beaming system 200 may include a monitoring device 222 operably coupled to the transmitter controller 206. The monitoring device 222 is configured to track one or more parameters that affect the conversion efficiency response of the PV receiver 204 during at least a portion of the beam emission period. The transmitter controller 206 tracks the temperature or peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ of the PV receiver 204. peak Based on these monitored parameters, which may include the beam emission wavelength λ, beamIt is configured to adjust the following. Communication between the monitoring device 222 and the transmitter controller 206 can be done via wired and / or wireless links, enabling the exchange of timing signals, control signals, measurement signals, and data signals.

[0110] In some embodiments, the transmitter controller 206 controls the beam emission wavelength λ at a rate proportional to the beam intensity of the transmitted beam 208. beam This is configured to change the temperature rise of the PV receiver 204 and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ. peak Assume that the corresponding increase is proportional to the beam intensity over a given time interval.

[0111] If the transmitting beam 208 is characterized by a non-uniform irradiance profile, such as higher intensity at the center and decreasing intensity towards the outside, then the beam emission wavelength λ beam The peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ is the area of ​​the PV receiver 204 illuminated by the center or another relevant area of ​​the transmitting beam 208. peak Based on the changes in λ, it can be adjusted, set, or otherwise controlled. Alternatively, the beam emission wavelength λ beam This is the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ averaged over all or part of the irradiation area of ​​the PV receiver 204. peak It can be adjusted, set, or otherwise controlled based on changes in it.

[0112] Multi-wavelength power beaming is also envisioned. In such cases, the beam transmitter 202 is configured to emit multiple transmit beams at different beam emission wavelengths, and the PV receiver 204 converts these beams into power. For example, the PV receiver 204 may include a multi-junction PV cell 218 configured for multi-wavelength operation. The overall conversion efficiency response of the PV receiver 204 may exhibit multiple peak conversion efficiency wavelengths, each corresponding to a specific beam emission wavelength. Each beam emission wavelength can be set or adjusted according to the change in its corresponding peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

[0113] In some embodiments, the peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ peakAccording to the change in beam emission wavelength λ beam Step 106 controls the beam emission wavelength λ during the beam emission period. beam There is no need to change the beam emission wavelength λ, as shown in Figure 6. beam This is the end time t of the beam emission period. end Peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ at times after such peak The start time t of the beam emission period is set to match this. start to, or start time t star It may be set before that. In such cases, the beam emission wavelength λ beam This is throughout the entire beam emission period (for example, t in Figure 5). start and t end It may remain unchanged between the two, but this is not essential.

[0114] In some implementations, the beam emission wavelength λ beam The peak conversion efficiency wavelength λ of the PV receiver 204 is peak It does not need to be controlled to reduce the mismatch (or does not need to be controlled independently), but rather, as shown in Figure 7, it may be controlled to manage (e.g., enhance or reduce) the heat generation within the PV receiver 204 for the purpose of adjusting (increasing or decreasing) the heat transfer between the PV receiver 204 and the asset 224 coupled thereto (e.g., mobile equipment such as a rover, or fixed equipment such as a base station).

[0115] Returning to Figure 2, the transmitter controller 206 can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. The transmitter controller 206 can be connected to the beam transmitter 202 and other system components via wired and / or wireless communication links, and may enable the exchange of various signals, including timing signals, control signals, measurement signals, and data signals. The transmitter controller 206 may be managed by direct user input and / or programmed instructions, and may include an operating system for overseeing various functions of the beam transmitter 202. The transmitter controller 206 may be fully or partially integrated with the beam transmitter 202, or physically separate from it, and may incorporate a distributed and / or cloud computing network. As described above, the transmitter controller 206 shown in Figure 2 generally includes a processor 210 and memory 212.

[0116] The term “processor” as used herein refers to any electronic device, circuit, or component capable of processing, receiving, or transmitting data or instructions, such as computer programs, commands, functions, processes, software code, executable files, applications, and similar entities. The term “processor” means encompassing a single processor or processing unit, multiple processors or processing units, or other appropriately configured processing elements. If the processor 210 includes multiple processing elements, these elements may be located at a single site or distributed across multiple sites interconnected by a communication network. Examples of communication networks include local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs), such as the Internet. Non-exclusive examples of processors include general-purpose single-core or multi-core processors, central processing units (CPUs), microprocessors, controllers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSPs), programmable logic devices, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital processors or circuits, analog processors or circuits, state machines, and / or any other devices capable of processing information.

[0117] As used herein, the term “memory” broadly refers to any electronic device, circuit, or component capable of storing electronic data or information. In some instances, the term “memory” may be used interchangeably with the term “computer-readable storage medium.” The term “memory” means encompassing a single memory or memory unit, a plurality of memories or memory units, or other appropriately configured memory elements. If memory 212 comprises a plurality of memory elements, these elements may be located in a single site or distributed across a plurality of sites interconnected by a communication network. Non-limiting examples of memory include any type of random-access memory (RAM), any type of read-only memory (ROM), magnetic storage devices, optical storage devices, solid-state drive (SSD) devices such as flash drive memory, and any other tangible and / or non-temporary computer-readable medium capable of storing electronic data or information.

[0118] Throughout this specification, similar features in the drawings are given the same reference numerals. To avoid cluttering certain drawings, some elements may be omitted if they have been previously identified in preceding drawings. Elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and the emphasis is on clearly illustrating the elements and structures of the disclosed embodiments. Positional symbols are used to indicate the location or orientation of one element relative to another for ease and clarity of explanation. Unless otherwise specified, these symbols should be understood in the context of the drawings and should not be considered limiting. Such spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation of the disclosed embodiments, in addition to the orientations illustrated in the drawings. Furthermore, when it is mentioned that the first element is "on," "above," "below," "over," or "under" the second element, the first element may be directly or indirectly above, above, below, above, or below the second element, thereby allowing one or more intervening elements to be positioned between the first and second elements.

[0119] The terms "a," "an," and "one" are defined herein as meaning "at least one," and unless otherwise stated, do not exclude multiple elements.

[0120] The term "or" is defined herein as meaning "and / or" unless otherwise specified.

[0121] Terms such as “substantially,” “generally,” and “about” that modify values, conditions, or characteristics of exemplary embodiments should be understood to mean that the values, conditions, or characteristics are defined within tolerances acceptable for the proper operation of this exemplary embodiment for its intended use. In particular, the term “about” generally refers to a range of numbers that a person skilled in the art would consider equivalent to the stated value (e.g., having the same or nearly the same function or result). In some examples, the term “about” means a variation of ±10% of the stated value. It should be noted that all numerical values ​​used herein are assumed to be modified by the term “about” unless otherwise stated.

[0122] As used herein, the term “based on” means “at least partially based on” or “partially based on” and is intended to encompass both “based solely on” and “partially based on.” In particular, the term “based on” may be understood to mean “dependent on,” “representing,” “indicating,” “associated with,” “concerning,” and so on.

[0123] The terms “match,” “matching,” and “matched” in this specification refer to a state in which two or more elements are identical or within a given tolerance of each other. These terms mean that the matching of two or more elements is not limited to matching them “exactly” or “identical,” but also includes matching them “substantially,” “approximately,” or “subjectively,” as well as providing a higher or best match among several possible matches.

[0124] The terms “connected” and “joined,” as well as their derivatives and variations, refer, in this specification, to any direct or indirect connection or joining between two or more elements, unless otherwise specified. For example, the connection or joining between elements may be mechanical, optical, electrical, magnetic, thermal, chemical, logical, fluid, kinetic, or any combination thereof.

[0125] The term “simultaneously” in this specification refers to the simultaneous or overlapping occurrence of two or more processes. The term “simultaneously” does not necessarily mean complete synchronization and encompasses a variety of scenarios. These scenarios include the simultaneous occurrence of two processes, a first process that both starts and ends during the duration of a second process, and a first process that starts during the duration of a second process but ends after the second process has completed.

[0126] When referring to a quantity or parameter, the term "measured" is intended to mean that the quantity or parameter can be measured directly or indirectly. In the case of indirect measurement, the quantity or parameter can be determined by derivation, retrieval, inference, or other means from directly measured data.

[0127] Numerous modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

1. During the beam emission period, the beam transmitter transmits the beam, A photovoltaic (PV) receiver is configured to convert the transmitted beam into power based on a conversion efficiency response having a peak conversion efficiency wavelength, and the PV receiver receives the transmitted beam. A power beaming method comprising controlling the beam emission wavelength of the transmitted beam based on a change in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength caused by a change in the temperature of the PV receiver during the beam emission period.

2. The power beaming method according to claim 1, wherein the transmitting beam is a laser beam.

3. The power beaming method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the beam transmitter or the PV receiver is located in outer space.

4. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one of the beam transmitter or the PV receiver is located on land, on water, or in the air.

5. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the PV receiver includes an array of PV cells.

6. The power beaming method according to claim 5, wherein the PV cell includes a single-junction PV cell.

7. The power beaming method according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the PV cell includes a multi-junction PV cell.

8. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the PV receiver includes a semiconductor material having a bandgap energy, and the change in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength is due to a temperature-induced change in the bandgap energy.

9. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the beam transmitter and the PV receiver are separated from each other by a beam transmission distance in the range of approximately 40 km to approximately 200 km.

10. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the beam emission wavelength is within a wavelength band ranging from about 400 nm to about 2500 nm.

11. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the beam emission period has a duration in the range of about 1 minute to about 10 minutes.

12. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the change in the temperature of the PV receiver is at least partially due to beam heating.

13. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the change in the temperature of the PV receiver is at least partially due to heating or cooling of the surroundings.

14. The transmitting beam has a non-uniform irradiance profile in which the intensity is stronger at the center of the transmitting beam and decreases radially as it moves away from the center. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the beam emission wavelength is controlled based on a change in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength in the region of the PV receiver irradiated by the center of the transmitting beam.

15. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein controlling the beam emission wavelength of the transmitting beam includes managing heat generation within the PV receiver to adjust heat transfer between the PV receiver and an asset coupled to the PV receiver.

16. The power beaming method according to claim 15, wherein the asset includes a fixed device.

17. The power beaming method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the asset includes a mobile device.

18. Controlling the beam emission wavelength is, A power beaming method according to any one of claims 1 to 17, comprising changing the beam emission wavelength during the beam emission period in order to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength when the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes over time due to the change in the temperature of the PV receiver.

19. The power beaming method according to claim 18, wherein changing the beam emission wavelength includes shifting the beam emission wavelength by about 10 nm to about 100 nm over the beam emission period.

20. The power beaming method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein changing the beam emission wavelength includes adjusting the beam emission wavelength in increments ranging from about 0.1 nm to about 10 nm.

21. To provide wavelength variation information regarding the expected time-dependent variation of the peak conversion efficiency wavelength during the beam emission period, A power beaming method according to any one of claims 18 to 20, further comprising changing the beam emission wavelength in accordance with the wavelength variation information.

22. The power beaming method according to claim 21, wherein providing the wavelength variation information includes performing a calibration operation to determine the expected variation over time of the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

23. The power beaming method according to claim 21 or 22, wherein providing the wavelength variation information includes providing a model for predicting the expected variation at the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

24. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein changing the beam emission wavelength includes adjusting the beam emission wavelength at a rate proportional to the intensity of the transmitted beam.

25. During at least a portion of the beam emission period, the temperature of the PV receiver is monitored over time. A power beaming method according to any one of claims 18 to 24, further comprising changing the beam emission wavelength based on the monitored temperature.

26. During at least a portion of the beam emission period, the parameters of the conversion efficiency response of the PV receiver are monitored over time. A power beaming method according to any one of claims 18 to 25, further comprising changing the beam emission wavelength based on the monitored parameters.

27. The power beaming method according to claim 26, wherein the monitored parameters include the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

28. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 18 to 27, wherein changing the beam emission wavelength includes continuously adjusting the beam emission wavelength during all or part of the beam emission period.

29. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 18 to 27, wherein changing the beam emission wavelength includes intermittently adjusting the beam emission wavelength during all or part of the beam emission period.

30. The power beaming method according to claim 29, wherein intermittently adjusting the beam emission wavelength includes changing the beam emission wavelength at a single point or interval during the beam emission period.

31. The power beaming method according to claim 29, wherein intermittently adjusting the beam emission wavelength includes changing the beam emission wavelength at a plurality of separate points or intervals during the beam emission period.

32. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 18 to 31, wherein changing the beam emission wavelength includes increasing the beam emission wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength increases due to the rise in temperature of the PV receiver.

33. The power beam method according to any one of claims 18 to 31, wherein changing the beam emission wavelength includes reducing the beam emission wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength decreases due to a decrease in the temperature of the PV receiver.

34. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 18 to 33, wherein changing the beam emission wavelength includes changing the beam emission wavelength linearly as a function of time.

35. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 18 to 34, wherein changing the beam emission wavelength reduces the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength over the entire beam emission period.

36. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 18 to 34, wherein changing the beam emission wavelength reduces the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength during a portion of the beam emission period.

37. The power beaming method according to claim 36, wherein the portion of the beam emission period begins after the start time of the beam emission period and ends at the end time of the beam emission period.

38. The power beaming method according to any one of claims 18 to 37, wherein changing the beam emission wavelength includes minimizing the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

39. Controlling the beam emission wavelength is done at the start time of the beam emission period, or before the start time. A power beaming method according to any one of claims 1 to 17, comprising setting the beam emission wavelength to match the expected peak conversion efficiency wavelength at a time after the beam emission period.

40. The power beaming method according to claim 39, wherein the time after the aforementioned period is the end time of the beam emission period.

41. A beam transmitter configured to transmit a beam during the beam emission period, A photovoltaic (PV) receiver configured to receive the transmitted beam from the beam transmitter and convert the transmitted beam into power based on a conversion efficiency response having a peak conversion efficiency wavelength, A power beaming system comprising: a transmitter controller operably coupled to the beam transmitter for controlling the beam emission wavelength, the transmitter controller including a processor and a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform an operation including controlling the beam emission wavelength of the transmitted beam based on a change in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength due to a change in the temperature of the PV receiver during the beam emission period.

42. The power beaming system according to claim 41, wherein the beam transmitter includes a laser source configured to emit the transmitted beam as a laser beam.

43. The power beaming system according to claim 41 or 42, wherein at least one of the beam transmitter or the PV receiver is configured for operation in outer space.

44. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 41 to 43, wherein at least one of the beam transmitter or the PV receiver is configured for operation on land, on water, or in the air.

45. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 41 to 44, wherein the PV receiver includes an array of PV cells.

46. The power beaming system according to claim 45, wherein the PV cell includes a single-junction PV cell.

47. The power beaming system according to claim 45 or 46, wherein the PV cell includes a multi-junction PV cell.

48. The PV receiver comprises a semiconductor material having a bandgap energy, and the change in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength is due to a temperature-induced change in the bandgap energy, according to any one of claims 41 to 47.

49. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 41 to 48, wherein the beam transmitter and the PV receiver are separated from each other by a beam transmission distance ranging from about 40 km to about 200 km.

50. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 41 to 49, wherein the beam emission wavelength is within a wavelength band in the range of approximately 400 nm to approximately 2500 nm.

51. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 41 to 50, wherein the beam emission period has a duration in the range of about 1 minute to about 10 minutes.

52. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 41 to 51, wherein the change in the temperature of the PV receiver is at least partially due to beam heating.

53. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 41 to 52, wherein the change in the temperature of the PV receiver is at least partially due to heating or cooling of the surroundings.

54. The beam transmitter is configured to emit a transmitting beam having a non-uniform irradiance profile in which the intensity is stronger at the center of the transmitting beam and decreases radially as it moves away from the center. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 41 to 53, wherein the beam emission wavelength is controlled based on a change in the peak conversion efficiency wavelength in the region of the PV receiver irradiated by the center of the transmitting beam.

55. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 41 to 54, wherein the operation of controlling the beam emission wavelength of the transmitting beam includes managing heat generation within the PV receiver in order to adjust heat transfer between the PV receiver and an asset coupled to the PV receiver.

56. The power beaming system according to claim 56, wherein the asset includes fixed equipment.

57. The asset includes a mobile device, as described in claim 55 or 56, for the power beaming system.

58. The operation for controlling the beam emission wavelength is, A power beaming method according to any one of claims 41 to 57, comprising changing the beam emission wavelength during the beam emission period in order to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength when the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes over time due to the change in the temperature of the PV receiver.

59. The power beaming system according to claim 58, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to shift the beam emission wavelength by about 10 nm to about 100 nm over the beam emission period.

60. The power beaming system according to claim 58 or 59, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to adjust the beam emission wavelength in increments ranging from about 0.1 nm to about 10 nm.

61. The operation performed by the aforementioned processor is: To provide wavelength variation information regarding the expected time-dependent variation of the peak conversion efficiency wavelength during the beam emission period, The power beaming method according to claim 60, further comprising changing the beam emission wavelength in accordance with the wavelength variation information.

62. The power beaming system according to claim 61, wherein the operation providing the wavelength variation information includes performing a calibration operation to determine the expected variation over time of the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

63. The power beaming system according to claim 61 or 62, wherein the operation of providing the wavelength variation information includes providing a model for predicting the expected variation of the peak conversion efficiency wavelength over time.

64. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 58 to 63, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to adjust the beam emission wavelength in proportion to the intensity of the transmitted beam.

65. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 58 to 64, further comprising a monitoring device operably coupled to the transmitter controller and configured to monitor the temperature of the PV receiver over time during at least a portion of the beam emission period, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to change the beam emission wavelength based on the monitored temperature.

66. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 58 to 65, further comprising a monitoring device operably coupled to the transmitter controller and configured to monitor over time the parameters of the conversion efficiency response of the PV receiver during at least a portion of the beam emission period, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to change the beam emission wavelength based on the monitored parameters.

67. The power beaming system according to claim 66, wherein the monitored parameters include the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

68. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 58 to 67, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to continuously change the beam emission wavelength during all or part of the beam emission period.

69. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 58 to 67, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to intermittently change the beam emission wavelength during all or part of the beam emission period.

70. The power beaming system according to claim 69, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to intermittently change the beam emission wavelength at a single point or interval during the beam emission period.

71. The power beaming system according to claim 69, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to intermittently change the beam emission wavelength at a plurality of separate points or intervals during the beam emission period.

72. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 58 to 71, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to change the beam emission wavelength by increasing the beam emission wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength increases due to the rise in temperature of the PV receiver.

73. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 58 to 71, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to change the beam emission wavelength by decreasing the beam emission wavelength as the peak conversion efficiency wavelength decreases due to a decrease in the temperature of the PV receiver.

74. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 58 to 73, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to linearly change the beam emission wavelength as a function of time.

75. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 58 to 74, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to change the beam emission wavelength to reduce the mismatch over the entire beam emission period.

76. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 58 to 74, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to change the beam emission wavelength to reduce the mismatch during a portion of the beam emission period.

77. The power beaming system according to claim 76, wherein the portion of the beam emission period begins after the start time of the beam emission period and ends at the end time of the beam emission period.

78. The power beaming system according to any one of claims 58 to 77, wherein the transmitter controller is configured to change the beam emission wavelength in order to minimize the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength.

79. The operation for controlling the beam emission wavelength is performed at the start time of the beam formation period, or before the start time. A power beaming system according to any one of claims 41 to 57, comprising setting the beam emission wavelength to match the expected peak conversion efficiency wavelength at a time after the beam emission period.

80. The power beaming system according to claim 79, wherein the time after the aforementioned period is the end time of the beam emission period.

81. During the beam emission period, the beam transmitter transmits a transmission beam having the beam emission wavelength, A photovoltaic (PV) receiver is configured to convert the transmitted beam into power based on a conversion efficiency response having a peak conversion efficiency wavelength, and the PV receiver receives the transmitted beam. A power beaming method comprising changing the beam emission wavelength during the beam emission period in order to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength when the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes over time in response to temperature fluctuations of the PV receiver.

82. The power beaming method according to claim 81, further comprising the steps or features described in any one of claims 1 to 38.

83. A beam transmitter configured to transmit a transmit beam during a beam emission period, wherein the transmit beam has a beam emission wavelength, A photovoltaic (PV) receiver configured to receive the transmitted beam from the beam transmitter and convert the transmitted beam into power based on a conversion efficiency response having a peak conversion efficiency wavelength, A power beaming system comprising: a transmitter controller operably coupled to the beam transmitter, the transmitter controller including a processor and a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations including controlling the beam transmitter to change the beam emission wavelength during the beam emission period to reduce the mismatch between the beam emission wavelength and the peak conversion efficiency wavelength when the peak conversion efficiency wavelength changes over time in response to temperature fluctuations of the PV receiver.

84. The power beaming system according to claim 83, further comprising the features of any one of claims 41 to 78.

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