Patent ID: 7102579
Filing Date: 2006-09-05
Classification: H01Q

Abstract:
1. A satellite antenna station comprising: a dish for concentrating received electromagnetic energy; photovoltaic elements for supplying electric power to said station; and a positioning device controlled by a control unit, wherein: said positioning device is adjustable for moving said dish at least into a first position for optimizing reception of a signal from a satellite and into a second position for optimizing exposure of the photovoltaic elements to solar radiation; said dish has a front side provided with a reflecting surface or reflector for reflecting electromagnetic radiation, and a rear side that faces away from said front side and that carries said photovoltaic elements in a position to generate power in response to radiation impinging on said rear side; said positioning device comprises: a yoke having an upper end that holds said dish and a lower end; and a base element connected to said lower end for allowing said yoke to swivel about a horizontal axis under control of said control unit; said dish is movable into a storage position associated with a swivelling angle of essentially zero degrees, in which position, said rear side faces upwardly to allow generation of solar power by said photovoltaic elements.