Patent ID: 6235983
Filing Date: 2001-05-22
Classification: H02S,Y02E,Y10S

Abstract:
A hybrid power assembly comprising:a thermophotovoltaic (TPV) power conversion module for converting radiant thermal energy to electrical power; said power conversion module comprising:a burner-emitter-recuperator (BER) assembly comprising a burner for supporting a flame, an emitter around said burner for transmitting thermal energy, and a recuperator for transferring waste thermal energy to incoming air and fuel, said BER assembly being disposed in a hermetically sealed enclosure;an array of photovoltaic (PV) cells disposed around said emitter and within said enclosure;an air-cooled heat sink disposed around said enclosure; anda battery in electrical communication with said TPV power source and rechargeable by electrical power generated by said TPV power conversion module.