Expand possible construction

Abstract

A deployable / retractable structure or template thereof is disclosed. The structure includes a number of folds that fold between peaks and valleys, which spread apart, retract towards a central hub, and / or rotate around a central hub. The folds have an extended continuous flat surface and can be configured to host an object such as a solar array. In the retracted configuration, the solar array is protected, folded, and takes up much less space. Electricity generated through the array is coupled to a signal that instructs the structure to transition between retracted and / or deployed stages. The design of the structure allows the solar array to be positioned at many angles and planes, which can create a generally non-flat unit that is less dependent on the direction of sunlight. Smaller, miniaturized units are light, portable, and can be operated by hand. Larger, scaled-up units can be placed on the ground or on top of existing charging stations, allowing for easier access and maintenance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-references to related applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 160,798, filed on March 13, 2021, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. U.S. Design Patent Application No. 29 / 774,067, having one of the embodiment's drawings, was filed on March 13, 2021. This design application is currently under examination at the USPTO and has not been published as of the filing date of this PCT application.

[0002] Technical field In its embodiments, the present disclosure relates to deployable and / or collapsible structures having an adjustable configuration, which function as a template for hosting an object such as a solar cell array.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] Background of Disclosure Solar cell arrays tend to take up a lot of space because they need to maximize surface exposure to a radiation source such as the sun. Solar farms with numerous panels are often located in the suburbs. Residential flat panels are often bolted to rooftops so as not to overly occupy living space on the ground. The present disclosure provides a deployable and / or collapsible structure as a template for hosting an object such as a solar cell array of any various configurations.

[0004] In the fully deployed configuration, the exposure of the solar cell array to the sun is maximized. In the fully degenerate, compact configuration, the solar cell array panels are fully protected and occupy much less space. The transition between the intermediate deployed / degenerate configuration provides a mechanism for continuously monitoring and attenuating electrical output by adjusting the surface area of ​​the solar cell array exposed to the sun. This structure allows the solar cell array to be arranged in multiple planes and orientations, thus reducing fluctuations in electrical output due to relative movement between the array and the sun.

[0005] This deployable structure can be made larger or smaller as needed. Smaller units can be carried to charge smaller devices in selected locations. Larger units can be deployed individually or in clusters to accommodate devices that require more power.

[0006] Brief Overview of the Embodiment In one modified example, the unfoldable structure comprises a central hub having a polygonal top surface, with a preceding region and a succeeding region formed around each vertex of the polygonal top surface, the preceding region containing a first set of parallel folds, the first set of parallel folds intersecting a corresponding second set of parallel folds in the succeeding region at a predetermined angle. The unfoldable structure changes shape between a fully condensed configuration and an unfolded configuration. In the fully condensed configuration, all folds overlap each other and further overlap the sides of the central hub, and any extra folds extending beyond one side of the central hub overlap the adjacent sides. In the unfolded configuration, all folds extend outward from the central hub and also away from each other.

[0007] In other variations, the first set of parallel folds and the second set of parallel folds are connected at their intersections and correspond to a plurality of substantially continuous flat surfaces that alternate continuously between peaks and valleys.

[0008] In further variations, the first pair of parallel folds in the preceding region are parallel to the first edge of the top surface of the polygon around the corresponding vertices, and the second pair of parallel folds in the succeeding region are parallel to the succeeding edge of the top surface of the polygon around the vertices.

[0009] In further variations, the first set of parallel folds and the second set of parallel folds in the preceding and succeeding regions have a predetermined width and number.

[0010] In other variations, the first and second sets of parallel folds in the preceding and succeeding regions around a given vertex are connected to folds around the succeeding vertex on the top surface of the polygon.

[0011] In further variations, the first and second sets of parallel folds in the preceding and succeeding regions around a given vertex are configured to be independent of the folds around other vertices on the top surface of the polygon.

[0012] In further variations, the morphological changes in the degenerate and expanded configurations are generally driven by translational forces along the radius of the central hub, or by centrifugal forces around the center of the central hub, or a combination thereof.

[0013] In further modifications, at least one subset of the multiple parallel folds includes a composite material.

[0014] In one modified example, the deployable structure for a solar cell array includes a central hub having a polygonal top surface, with a preceding region and a succeeding region formed around each vertex of the polygonal top surface, the preceding region including a first set of parallel folds, the first set of parallel folds intersecting a corresponding second set of parallel folds in the succeeding region at a predetermined angle. The first set of parallel folds and the second set of parallel folds correspond to a plurality of substantially continuous flat surfaces that alternate continuously between peaks and valleys. Multiple solar cell arrays are detachably connected on the polygonal top surface and the flat surfaces of the first set of parallel folds and the second set of parallel folds. The deployable structure for the solar cell array changes shape between a fully decomposed configuration and a deployed configuration. In the fully decomposed configuration, all folds overlap each other and further overlap the sides of the central hub, and any extra folds extending beyond one side of the central hub overlap the adjacent sides. In the above unfolded configuration, all folds extend outward from the central hub and also move away from each other.

[0015] In one modified example, the solar cell array includes a plurality of photocells that are arranged to be detachably connected to the deployable structure at strategically predetermined positions along the flat surfaces of the parallel folds.

[0016] In other modifications, the central hub further houses a series of wiring and charging components within its cavity.

[0017] In further modifications, the parallel folds and the central hub are reinforced via multiple auxiliary support elements and further / or secured to a support stand on top of a charging station.

[0018] In further variations, the solar cell array includes a plurality of mounting mechanisms configured to be detachably connected to the deployable structure.

[0019] In further variations, the deployable structure includes a plurality of mounting mechanisms configured to be detachably connected to the solar cell array.

[0020] In one modified example, the electricity generated through the solar cell array is converted into a signal that instructs the deployable structure to change its form between a fully degenerate configuration and multiple deployable configurations.

[0021] In other modifications, the detachable connecting means include hooks and loops, crowns, clips, R-clips, spring clips, rings, pins, clevis pins, cotter pins, ring stoppers, buttons, buckles, grommets, adhesives, Velcro, and snap fasteners having male / female components.

[0022] In other variations, the solar cell array is coupled complementary to the corresponding peaks and valleys.

[0023] A method for changing the form of the deployable structure includes driving the deployable structure in a phase between a fully condensed configuration and an deployed configuration by applying translational and / or rotational forces. The deployable structure comprises a central hub having a polygonal top surface, with a preceding region and a succeeding region formed around each vertex of the polygonal top surface, the preceding region including a first set of parallel folds, the first set of parallel folds intersecting a corresponding second set of parallel folds in the succeeding region at a predetermined angle. In the fully condensed configuration, all folds overlap each other and further overlap the sides of the central hub, with any extra folds extending beyond one side of the central hub overlapping adjacent sides. In the deployed configuration, all folds extend outward from the central hub and away from each other.

[0024] A method of changing the form of a deployable structure for a solar cell array includes applying a translational force and / or a rotational force to drive the deployable structure for the solar cell array at a stage between a fully retracted configuration and a deployed configuration. The deployable structure for the solar cell array includes a central hub having a polygonal upper surface, and a leading region and a trailing region are configured around each vertex of the polygonal upper surface. The leading region includes a first set of parallel folds, and the first set of parallel folds intersects a corresponding second set of parallel folds in the trailing region at a preset angle. The first set of parallel folds and the second set of parallel folds correspond to a plurality of substantially continuous flat surfaces that continuously alternate between mountains and valleys. A plurality of solar cell arrays are detachably connected to preset positions on the polygonal upper surface and the flat surfaces of the first set of parallel folds and the second set of parallel folds. In the fully retracted configuration, all the folds overlap each other and further overlap the side surface of the central hub, and the extra folds extending beyond one side of the central hub overlap the adjacent side. In the deployed configuration, all the folds extend outward from the central hub and away from each other.

[0025] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description made in connection with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings illustrate features according to embodiments of the present disclosure as examples. The summary is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined only by the appended claims. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In practice or in testing of embodiments of the present disclosure, methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used, but exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, this patent specification, including definitions, will govern. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not necessarily intended to be limiting.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] Description of the drawing The present disclosure according to various embodiments above 1 will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings. These drawings are provided for the purpose of explanation only and are only for showing typical or exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. These drawings are provided to facilitate the understanding of the reader regarding the present disclosure and are considered not to limit the width, scope, or applicability of the present disclosure. It should be noted that for the purpose of clarification and ease of explanation, these drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Some of the figures included in this specification show various embodiments of the present disclosure from different angles. The accompanying explanatory text may sometimes refer to such figures as "top" views, "bottom" views, or "side" views, but such references are merely explanatory and do not imply or require that the present disclosure be implemented or used in a specific spatial orientation unless it is clearly stated otherwise.

[0027] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a deployable structure in a semi-deployed position.

[0028] [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a top view thereof.

[0029] [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a front view thereof.

[0030] [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a rear view thereof.

[0031] [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a left side view thereof.

[0032] [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a right side view thereof.

[0033] [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a bottom view thereof.

[0034] [Figure 8a] Figure 8a is a top view of the deployable structure in which all panels are condensed and folded tightly around the central hub.

[0035] [Figure 8b] Figure 8b is a perspective view of it.

[0036] [Figure 9a] Figure 9a is a top view of the deployable structure with all panels in a slightly unfolded position.

[0037] [Figure 9b] Figure 9b is a perspective view of it.

[0038] [Figure 10a] Figure 10a is a top view of the deployable structure with all panels in their fully extended positions.

[0039] [Figure 10b] Figure 10b is a perspective view of it.

[0040] [Figure 11a] Figure 11a is a top view of the deployable structure with all panels in their fully extended positions.

[0041] [Figure 11b] Figure 11b is a perspective view of it.

[0042] [Figure 12a-d] Figures 12a–12d are perspective views of exemplary expandable structures with a triangular central hub ABC in various expansion / degeneration stages. The letter labels on the vertices are intended to help visualize the dynamic expansion / degeneration process.

[0043] [Figure 13a]Figure 13a is a top view of a two-dimensional (2D) fold map for an unfoldable structure with a triangular central hub in a fully open, flat position.

[0044] [Figure 13b] Figure 13b is a mirror image of Figure 13.

[0045] [Figure 14a] Figure 14a is an exemplary 2D fold map of a deployable structure having a square-shaped central hub.

[0046] [Figure 14b] Figure 14b is a top view of the three-dimensional (3D) structure based on the 2D fold map of Figure 14a, in an intermediate stage of unfolding.

[0047] [Figure 14c] Figure 14c is a perspective view of Figure 14b.

[0048] [Figure 14d] Figure 14d is a mirror image of Figure 14a.

[0049] [Figure 14e] Figure 14e is a top view of the 3D structure in an intermediate stage of unfolding based on the 2D fold map in Figure 14d.

[0050] [Figure 14f] Figure 14f is a perspective view of Figure 14e.

[0051] [Figure 15] Figure 15 is an exemplary 2D fold map of a deployable structure having a pentagonal central hub.

[0052] [Figure 16a] Figure 16a is an exemplary 2D fold map of a deployable structure having a hexagonal central hub.

[0053] [Figure 16b]Figure 16b is a perspective view of the 3D structure at an intermediate stage of unfolding based on the 2D fold map in Figure 16a.

[0054] [Figure 16c] Figure 16c is a top view of the 3D structure of Figure 16b in the fully degenerated stage.

[0055] [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a 2D fold map of an unfoldable structure with a triangular central hub and narrow folds.

[0056] [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a 2D fold map of an unfoldable structure with a triangular central hub and wide folds.

[0057] [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows a miniaturized exemplary embodiment in which the solar panels are hosted only in alternating valley or mountain folds.

[0058] [Figure 20] Figure 20 shows a miniaturized exemplary embodiment in which the solar panels are triangular in shape and alternately hosted complementary between valleys and peaks.

[0059] [Figure 21] Figure 21 shows a larger, exemplary embodiment in which the combined electrical output of the solar panels is large enough to power the vehicle.

[0060] [Figure 22] Figure 22 shows a larger embodiment, in which multiple units are present in the charging station.

[0061] These figures are not intended to be exclusive or to limit the disclosure to the exact form disclosed. It should be understood that the disclosure may be modified or altered for implementation, and that it is limited only by the claims and their equivalents. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0062] Detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure The following description and / or disclosure includes explanatory systems, methods, techniques, sequence instructions, and computer program products that embody explanatory embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are given for illustrative purposes to enable understanding of various embodiments of the subject matter of the invention. Occasionally, this disclosure is described herein in exemplary environments. Descriptions of these environments are provided so that various features of this disclosure can be illustrated in the context of exemplary applications. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this disclosure can be implemented in different and other environments, with or without specific details. Generally, known instructions, protocols, structures, and techniques are not described in detail. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs. All patents, applications, publications, and other publications referenced herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. If any definitions set forth in this section contradict or are inconsistent with any definitions set forth in applications, publications, and other publications incorporated herein by reference, the definitions set forth in this document shall prevail over the definitions incorporated herein by reference.

[0063] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a deployable / degenerate structure or structural template for hosting an object such as a solar panel or a solar cell array. The structure includes a central hub and a series of crescent-and-valley folds surrounding the hub. These folds may be configured to rotate about the central hub as they simultaneously unfold away from the central hub or degenerate toward the central hub. A solar cell array hosted on the structure is exposed to sunlight or radiation 360 degrees around the central hub when the structure is in various deployed positions. These panels are fully protected around the hub when the structure is in a fully degenerate position.

[0064] For illustrative purposes, Figures 1–13 illustrate embodiments having a triangular central hub. The triangular central hub is one of the simplest polygons, having only three edges on its top surface. Figures 14–18 illustrate polygons with more edges, more complex shapes, sizes, and configurations.

[0065] Figure 13a shows the two-dimensional (2D) fold map of the unfoldable / decomposable structure, i.e., the template of the structure. This fold map coincides with the top surface when fully unfolded. Triangle 100, with vertices A, B, and C, defines the two-dimensional surface area of ​​the vertex of the central hub. The edges of triangle 100 are extended outward in a counterclockwise direction by straight lines. TIFF0007853317000001.tif910 is extended to B' (a virtual point along that extension line for illustrative purposes only), edge TIFF0007853317000002.tif1011 is extended to C', edge TIFF0007853317000003.tif910 is extended to A'. TIFF0007853317000004.tif1010 divides ∠A'AB' and the line TIFF0007853317000005.tif910 divides ∠B'BC' and line TIFF0007853317000006.tif910 divides ∠C'CA'. Area A'AR is called the predecessor region for vertex A. The first group of parallel lines is formed with predetermined intervals, and the edges in the above predecessor region It is parallel to TIFF0007853317000007.tif1016. Area RAB' is called the successor region for vertex A. A second group of parallel lines is formed with predetermined intervals, and the edges in the above successor region It is parallel to TIFF0007853317000008.tif1117. Parallel lines in both the preceding and succeeding regions are dividing lines. The endpoints are connected along TIFF0007853317000009.tif1010 and share these endpoints. These endpoints are marked as r1, r2, ..., E. The parallel lines in both the preceding and succeeding regions represent sequentially folded peaks and valleys, similar to the form of a pair of fabric pleats or an accordion. These correspond to multiple substantially continuous flat surfaces that vary between the consecutive peaks and valleys. The shared endpoints ensure that the two intersecting parallel lines in both the preceding and succeeding regions correspond to each other. In other words, the dividing lines By connecting at the corresponding endpoints along TIFF0007853317000010.tif1010, the peaks in the preceding region are also the peaks in the following region, and vice versa for the valleys.

[0066] In a repeatable manner, area B'BS is shown as the preceding region to vertex B. Area SBC' is shown as the succeeding region to vertex B. Area C'CT is shown as the preceding region to vertex C. Area TCA' is shown as the succeeding region to vertex C. In each of these regions, parallel lines to the peaks and valleys are constructed according to the above.

[0067] Points H, E, I, F, G, and D are marked to arbitrarily set endpoints along their respective corresponding lines. Thus, by connecting these points, an exemplary boundary or contour of the top surface of the unfoldable structure in its fully unfolded state can be drawn with lines. The width of the fold, i.e., the distance between two parallel lines, can certainly vary (as shown in Figures 17 and 18). The number of folds can also vary as needed. Figure 13a should not be interpreted as limiting the meaning of the dimensions of the fold and its boundary with respect to the central hub of a triangle (or a central hub of any shape).

[0068] Enlarged diagrams of the expandable structure at various stages are shown in Figures 1 to 11. Figure 12 shows the three-dimensional (3D) transition stages of a structure (or its template) with a triangular central hub as shown in Figure 13a. Vertices A to I are marked to help visualize how the structure changes from one another between the fully degenerate and nearly expanded stages.

[0069] Degeneracy via counterclockwise rotation (or centrifugal force) around vertices A, B, and C occurs at the bottom (edge) of the preceding region. It can be initiated from TIFF0007853317000011.tif941) or from the rotation of the central hub itself. The connectivity of this design allows the degeneration process to be initiated and driven throughout the entire structure using only counterclockwise rotational force. Rotational forces generated simultaneously at A', B', C' (or H, I, G) improve the speed and efficiency of movement. Clockwise rotational force reverses the morphological changes and returns the structure to various development stages.

[0070] Point vertices E, F, and D (individually or simultaneously) toward the central hub along their corresponding dividing lines. By pressing directly along TIFF0007853317000012.tif942, degeneration can be initiated via translational force. The folding initiated at vertices E, F, D then facilitates counterclockwise rotation of the preceding and succeeding regions. A translational force in the opposite direction, pulling away from the central hub, reverses the morphological change, returning the structure to various unfolded stages.

[0071] The rotational and translational mechanisms described above can certainly be combined to drive the morphological change process of a structure or its template. Figure 13a shows an example where both mechanisms are linked by design. As the structure degenerates, nearby peaks and valleys move toward the central hub, continuously overlapping each other. By connection, folds in preceding regions move corresponding folds in subsequent regions toward the central hub in a similar manner. Extra folds extending beyond vertices simply wrap around the vertices and overlap with adjacent edges of the central hub. In the fully degenerated stage, as shown in the top figure of Figure 12, Figures 8a, 8b, and Figure 16, all folds overlap each other and wrap closely around the central hub. In the unfolding process, opposite movements occur, with peaks and valleys moving toward the central hub and continuously peeling apart from each other. In the fully unfolded stage, the top surface can be as flat as the 2D fold map in Figure 13a. Intermediate stages are shown in both directions in Figure 12.

[0072] Figure 13b is a mirror image of Figure 13a, which is a fold map corresponding to the structure that rotates clockwise during degeneracy.

[0073] In Figures 13a and 13b, the preceding region around a vertex, for example, vertex A, is a line It is connected to subsequent regions around the same vertex A along TIFF0007853317000013.tif1010. The subsequent regions around vertex A are then connected to a shared boundary. The preceding region around the subsequent vertex B is connected along TIFF0007853317000014.tif912. This connection pattern is repeated so that it propagates from one vertex to the next, eventually returning to the initial vertex A. For a simple triangle 100, the preceding and succeeding regions around vertex A are connected to the region around the subsequent vertex B, then to the region around vertex C, and then back to the region around vertex A.

[0074] By connecting preceding and succeeding regions along a shared boundary line from one vertex to the next, the efficiency of movement and morphological change can be improved. Rotational (or centrifugal) and / or translational forces applied at several locations can move the entire structure back and forth. A foreseeable undesirable aspect is that a malfunction at a single location can inhibit and block the morphological change process of the entire structure.

[0075] Another configuration involves separating the preceding and succeeding regions around the same vertex from the preceding and succeeding regions around adjacent vertices. In Figure 13a, for example, the succeeding region RAB' centered on vertex A can be configured to be separated from the preceding region B'BF centered on vertex B. In this way, the preceding and succeeding regions centered on a given vertex can degenerate or expand independently of other regions centered on other vertices. These regions are bounding boxes. Whether or not TIFF0007853317000015.tif912 is shared is no longer essential and does not limit this type of configuration. The peaks and valleys in the preceding and succeeding regions do not need to be parallel to the respective edges of the upper polygonal surface.

[0076] The central hub of this structure does not need to be triangular. Figure 14a shows an exemplary 2D fold map with a square central hub. Top and perspective views of the intermediate stages of the unfolded 3D structure based on Figure 14a are shown in Figures 14b and 14c (rotated counterclockwise). Figure 14d is a 2D fold map mirrored to Figure 14a, and Figures 14e and 14f show the corresponding intermediate stages of the unfolded 3D structure (rotated clockwise in top and perspective views).

[0077] Figures 15 and 16a show fold maps of pentagonal and hexagonal central hubs. The outer boundaries are shown as pentagons and hexagons, respectively, for illustrative purposes only. The outer boundaries do not need to be the same shape as the central hub. Figures 13a-13b, 14a, and 14d show the central hub as either a triangle or a cube, with the outermost boundary of the corresponding 2D fold map consisting of very different polygons.

[0078] Figure 16b is a perspective view of an intermediate stage of the unfolded 3D structure based on the 2D fold map of Figure 16a, which has a hexagonal top surface. Figure 16c is a top view of the same structure in the fully degenerated stage. As the number of edges on the upper polygonal surface increases, it approaches a circular shape.

[0079] Figures 1 to 17 show central hubs of various shapes and sizes. However, a common feature exists as a series of valleys and peaks with folds that can unfold from or degenerate toward the central hub. Clockwise or counterclockwise rotational components can be incorporated into the structural morphogenesis process. Such configurations allow the area on the central hub to remain relatively small compared to fully unfolded structures with many folds. This feature ensures that the structure occupies much less space when in the fully degenerated position. When space constraints are an issue, solar cell arrays can be hosted via this type of template, with the panels degenerated and protected when not in use.

[0080] A practical example can be seen in Figure 16b, where, in a partially unfolded state, the surface area surrounding the peaks and valleys is at least 10 to 15 times the surface area of ​​the top surface of the hexagonal central hub. Figure 16c shows a top view of the fully degenerated hexagonal central hub, with all its folds overlapping and wrapping around it. The rotational components not only facilitate the lateral degeneration of the folds but also allow the folds to wrap continuously around the central hub from one vertex to the next, thus further reducing the overall size. When fully degenerated, the increase in overall size compared to the surface area of ​​the central hub alone is less than approximately 30%. In short, when this structure or its template is fully unfolded, it can contain a relatively large surface area. When the structure is fully degenerated, it can shrink to occupy a much smaller area, but still modestly larger or wider than the central hub itself.

[0081] The large ratio of morphological change in surface area from a fully unfolded surface to a fully degenerate surface is particularly relevant to the structure hosting the solar cell array. When fully unfolded, the array ensures maximum surface area exposure for converting solar radiation into electrical energy. When fully degenerate, it packs the array into a much smaller, more protected space closely surrounding a central hub.

[0082] Flat solar panels must be oriented toward the sun. If flat panels are fixed, such as bolted to a roof, the electrical output will inevitably change as the sun moves across their surface over time. Figures 14c and 14f show two quadrilateral hub structure templates at similar intermediate development stages, with light sources coming from opposite directions. In Figure 14c, the light source originates from the upper left corner. In Figure 14f, the light source originates from the upper right corner. The folds of valleys and peaks surrounding the central hub 360 degrees ensure that the total surface area in exposure and / or shade is the same in both configurations. This feature reduces the dependence of the solar cell array hosted through this structure in terms of orientation toward the sun or any radiation source. Just like a real valley, the shaded slope on one side of the valley will become exposed to sunlight as the Earth rotates around the sun over time. Compared to bolted flat solar panels, this structure, when considered as a whole unit, essentially provides an alternative to a non-flat solar cell array unit. The folds allow the panels to be positioned 360 degrees around the hub in all opposing directions.

[0083] Figures 12a to 12d are perspective views of exemplary deployable structures ranging from a fully degenerate configuration to a mostly deployed configuration. By moving the structure back and forth, the exposed surface area can be changed. When the structure hosts multiple solar cell arrays, the change in exposed surface area is directly linked to their electrical output. The mechanical morphological change process of the structure can be linked to a feedback loop to attenuate the electrical output from the solar cell arrays in a fairly straightforward manner. If the output falls below a preset threshold, a signal is generated and transmitted instructing the structure to further deploy to increase the surface exposure of the solar cell arrays. Conversely, if the output is too high and exceeds a preset threshold, the structure can be instructed to degenerate to reduce the surface exposure.

[0084] Solar cells or solar panels come in a variety of styles, subcomponents, and designs. Conventional silicon-based photocells include monocrystalline panels, polycrystalline panels, and thin-film solar cells. Carbon-based organic photocells are called plastic solar cells or polymer solar cells. Each of these has advantages and disadvantages in terms of efficiency and cost. The structures disclosed in this application do not impose any limitations on the types of solar panels or solar cells that the structures can host. Sheet materials such as fabric, metal, wood, plastic, nylon, and / or other materials are all suitable because they can be adjusted to provide a certain amount of tension and support to the extended surface area. The structures themselves can be manufactured from a variety of combinations (or composite materials) of materials, insofar as they have sufficient strength to support solar panels and solar cells and maintain their integrity during morphological changes.

[0085] Thin-film cells can be manufactured directly using a structural substrate that includes a morphogenic template design that allows for deployment or decomposition. Rigid panels can be fixed to a stronger template of a mesh or plated structure made of various materials via various mounting means. Types of mounting include, but are not limited to, hooks and loops, crowns, clips, R-clips, spring clips, rings, pins, clevis pins, cotter pins, ring stoppers, buttons, buckles, grommets, adhesives, Velcro, and snap fasteners with male / female components.

[0086] Assuming the solar panel or photocell has a certain thickness and weight, the following examples show several configurations considering its overall size and foldability. The solar panel and photocell can be hosted on the top surface of the central hub, and / or on the folds or creases surrounding the hub, via various mounting means. Wiring and charging components can be configured on the underside of the structure along the ridges of the peaks and valleys, and inside the internal cavity of the central hub. Different types of hinges or joints can also be used to reinforce the structure as needed.

[0087] Figure 19 shows a miniaturized exemplary embodiment in which the solar cells (painted in dark gray) are hosted only on alternating valley or mountain folds. The collective electrical output of the array is small enough to power a portable electronic device. The structure itself can be easily opened and closed by pulling or pushing the folds by hand. In the fully decompressed position, as shown in Figures 8a and 8b, the entire structure becomes small enough to fit in the palm of a person or in a carry bag in its smallest case. Figure 20 shows another miniaturized exemplary embodiment in which the solar cells are triangular in shape and hosted alternately and complementaryly between valley and mountain folds. In the fully unfolded position, the panels on the mountain folds fit into the empty slots on the sides of the corresponding panels on the valley folds, and vice versa. For a medium-sized embodiment, for example, the unit may be sized to be transported on a vehicle rack or in the trunk space and suitable for providing a similar charging output for camping trips.

[0088] Assuming that surface area continuity is obtained along the fold surface, solar panels and photons can be arranged into single units, and even into cohesive groups, taking into account their fold pattern and thickness. There are no restrictions on the specific shape or number that solar panels and photons must follow, as long as there is sufficient surface area on the fold for mounting them. The triangular cells in Figure 20 can certainly be changed to squares or other shapes as needed for functionality and appearance.

[0089] Figure 21 shows a larger, exemplary embodiment in which the combined electrical output of the solar panels is large enough to power a vehicle. For residential use, the unit can be fixed to a ground-based support stand or charging station via its central hub. In its fully decompressed position, this occupies less space than the support stand or charging station itself, and all panels of the solar array are fully protected from the elements. One or more units can be freely and fully deployed to power a residence or to the grid as needed. Roof installation is not required. All units are permanently on the ground and easily accessible, allowing for separate maintenance along with the remaining hardware, such as the charging station.

[0090] Figure 22 shows yet another larger embodiment, in which multiple units are present in a charging station for bicycles, scooters, and even cars. Each unit can be positioned on a support stand or charging station via its central hub. Those in use can be lifted and extended. Those not in use can be lowered and completely retracted.

[0091] Larger embodiments of deployable structures inevitably require greater support and strength to support their own weight and the objects hosted on them. Mechanical auxiliary structures, such as support beams, frames, and tracks, may be necessary to drive and facilitate the transformation process of the structure hosting solar panels. Given the rigidity of the deployable structure, mechanical auxiliary structures can be easily connected to the underside of the structure, for example, along the ridges of peaks and valleys, and even to hinges designed to function as peaks or valleys for folds.

[0092] While various embodiments of this disclosure have been described, it should be understood that these are presented as examples only and not as limitations. Similarly, various diagrams may illustrate exemplary structural configurations or other configurations for this disclosure, and are provided to aid in understanding the features and functions that can be included in this disclosure. This disclosure is not limited to the illustrated exemplary structures or configurations, and desired features can be realized using various other structures or configurations. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art how other functional, logical, or physical partitions and configurations can be realized to achieve the desired features of this disclosure. Furthermore, numerous other different configuration module names not shown herein can be applied to various partitions. While this disclosure has been described above in terms of various exemplary embodiments and examples, it should be understood that the various features, aspects, and functions described in one or more of the individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to the particular embodiment in which they are described, but rather can be applied individually or in various combinations to one or more of the other embodiments of this disclosure, regardless of whether such embodiments are described or whether such features are presented as part of the described embodiment. Thus, the breadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above. Terms and phrases used herein, and their derivatives, should be interpreted as open-ended unless explicitly stated otherwise. For example, the term “including” should be read as “including without limitation,” etc. The term “example” is used to provide illustrative facts of the items being discussed, rather than an exclusive or restrictive list. The terms “a” or “an” should be read as “at least one,” “one or more,” etc.Adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “ordinary,” “standard,” and “known,” and terms with similar meanings, should not be interpreted as limiting the terms spoken to a given period or to items available at a given time, but rather as encompassing conventional, traditional, ordinary, or standard techniques that may be available or known at any point in the present or future. Similarly, where this document refers to a technique that would be obvious to or known to a person skilled in the art, such technique encompasses what is obvious or known to a person skilled in the art at any point in the present or future. A group of items connected by the conjunction “and” should not be interpreted as requiring each and every one of those items to exist in the group, but should be interpreted as “and / or” unless explicitly stated otherwise. Similarly, a group of items connected by the conjunction “or” should not be interpreted as requiring mutual exclusivity within the group, but should be interpreted as “and / or” unless explicitly stated otherwise. Furthermore, while items, elements, or components of this disclosure may be described or described in claims in the singular form, unless explicitly stated to be limited to the singular form, the plural form is considered to be within its scope. The presence of broadening words or phrases such as "one or more," "at least," "not limited," or possibly other similar phrases should not be interpreted as meaning that a narrower scope is intended or required where such broadening phrases are not conceivable. Features of this disclosure described in the context of separate embodiments for the sake of clarity should be understood to also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of this disclosure described in the context of a single embodiment for the sake of simplification may also be provided individually, in any preferred subcombination, or as preferred in other embodiments of this disclosure. Features described in the context of various embodiments should not be considered essential features of those embodiments unless the embodiment would be inoperable without those elements.

Claims

1. A deployable structure for a solar cell array, It has a central hub with a polygonal top surface, A preceding region and a succeeding region are formed around each vertex of the upper surface of the polygon, the preceding region includes a first set of parallel folds, and the first set of parallel folds intersects with a corresponding second set of parallel folds in the succeeding region at a predetermined angle. The aforementioned deployable structure changes its form between a fully degenerate configuration and multiple deployable configurations. In the aforementioned fully decomposed configuration, all folds overlap each other and further overlap the sides of the central hub, and any extra folds extending beyond one side of the central hub overlap the adjacent sides. In the aforementioned multiple unfolded configurations, all folds extend outward from the central hub and away from each other. A deployable structure for solar cell arrays.

2. The deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 1, wherein the first set of parallel folds and the second set of parallel folds are connected at their intersection and correspond to a plurality of substantially continuous flat surfaces that are continuously alternating between peaks and valleys.

3. The deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 1, wherein the first pair of parallel folds in the preceding region are parallel to the first edge of the top surface of the polygon around the corresponding vertices, and the second pair of parallel folds in the succeeding region are parallel to the succeeding edge of the top surface of the polygon around the vertices.

4. The deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 1, wherein the first set of parallel folds and the second set of parallel folds in the preceding region and the succeeding region have a predetermined width and number.

5. The deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 1, wherein the preceding region and the succeeding region around a certain vertex are connected to a region around a succeeding vertex on the upper surface of the polygon.

6. The deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 1, wherein the preceding region and the succeeding region around a certain vertex are configured to be independent of the preceding region and the succeeding region around other vertices on the upper surface of the polygon.

7. The deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 1, wherein the morphological changes in the degenerate configuration and the multiple deployable configurations are generally driven via translational forces along the radius of the central hub, or via centrifugal forces around the center of the central hub, or a combination thereof.

8. A deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of parallel folds and at least one subset of the central hub are made of a composite material, reinforced via a plurality of auxiliary support elements, and / or fixed on a support stand.

9. A deployable structure for a solar cell array, It has a deployable structure, It has a central hub with a polygonal top surface, A preceding region and a succeeding region are formed around each vertex of the upper surface of the polygon, the preceding region includes a first set of parallel folds, and the first set of parallel folds intersects with a corresponding second set of parallel folds in the succeeding region at a predetermined angle. The first set of parallel folds and the second set of parallel folds correspond to a plurality of substantially continuous flat surfaces that exist alternately between peaks and valleys. Expandable structure, Multiple solar cell arrays are detachably connected to the top surface of the polygon and the flat surfaces of the first set of parallel folds and the second set of parallel folds. Equipped with, The deployable structure for the solar cell array changes its form between a fully degenerate configuration and multiple deployable configurations. In the aforementioned fully decomposed configuration, all folds overlap each other and further overlap the sides of the central hub, and any extra folds extending beyond one side of the central hub overlap the adjacent sides. In the aforementioned multiple unfolded configurations, all folds extend outward from the central hub and away from each other. A deployable structure for solar cell arrays.

10. The deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 9, wherein the solar cell array includes a plurality of photocells that are arranged to be detachably connected to the deployable structure at strategically predetermined positions along the flat surface of the parallel folds.

11. The deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 9, wherein the central hub further houses a series of wiring components and charging components within its cavity.

12. The deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 9, wherein the parallel folds and the central hub are reinforced via a plurality of auxiliary support elements and are fixed to a support stand or on a charging station.

13. The deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 9, wherein the solar cell array includes a plurality of mounting mechanisms configured to be detachably connected to the deployable structure.

14. The deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 9, wherein the deployable structure includes a plurality of mounting mechanisms configured to be detachably connected to the solar cell array.

15. The deployable structure for a solar cell array according to claim 9, wherein the electricity generated through the solar cell array is converted into a signal that instructs the deployable structure to change shape in stages between a fully degenerate configuration and a plurality of deployed configurations.

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