Patent Description:
The utilization of solar energy, as renewable energy, is an important task of our time. Its advantage is that, as a renewable energy source, it is always available and can be utilized without the emission of harmful substances. Solar energy is utilized both as thermal energy and as electrical energy. Nowadays the use of solar collectors for converting solar radiation into heat and solar panels for converting sunlight into electrical energy is becoming more and more widespread.

Solar panel-based systems are widely used in institutions, homes or even for the operation of individual devices powered by electricity, such as garden lights, parking meters, or smart clothes.

In order to increase the efficiency of solar panels, installations or solar parks consisting of solar panels connected in series are installed on roofs or larger unbuilt areas, depending on the characteristics of the available area. These systems are fixed, they can only be used at the site of installation, and at the same time require a large area, which is often not available.

There are areas, where electrical energy is only needed temporarily, this task can be solved by using portable solar panels, several such solutions are disclosed in the prior art.

Due to the potentials offered by solar panels, the structural design of solar-panel-based systems is constantly in the focus of development, there is an increasing need for portable devices having a small floor area.

Patent Application No. <CIT> discloses a portable solar cell apparatus including a base, a plurality of solar cell units, a light guide element, and a plurality of lens units. The solar cell units are disposed at the base. The light guide element has a plurality of integrally formed funnel-shaped light guide units. The light guide element is disposed at the base, and each of the funnel-shaped light guide units guides light to the respective solar cell unit. Each of the lens units is disposed at the respective funnel-shaped light guide unit.

Patent Application No. <CIT> discloses a system for solar energy acquisition, in which light concentrated by means a parabolic reflector, then by passing through a prism, is directed to photovoltaic cells by means of a multiplicity of fiber optic bundles for energy efficient power generation.

Patent Application No. <CIT> relates to a concentrating photovoltaic system including a parabolic mirror focusing a beam of light on an array of photovoltaic cells. The array of photovoltaic cells includes a plurality of triangular shaped individual photovoltaic cells arranged like slices of a pie, defining an octagon, and a plurality of trapezoidal shaped solar cells are arranged around the perimeter of the triangular shaped solar cells. The light reflected by the parabolic mirror consisting of a large number of small plane mirrors travels to the array of photovoltaic cells mounted on top of a support through a bundle of optical fibres arranged around the support, amplified by it.

Patent Application No. <CIT> relates to a solar concentrator assembly including a light splitting element, a light converging element, an optical fibre unit, and a photoelectric unit in such a way that the individual units are located on top of one another. An optical fibre of the optical fibre unit is connected to each photoelectric converter of the photoelectric unit. Light travels to the photoelectric converters placed next to one another through optical fibres placed next to one another.

The <CIT>patent discloses a compact variable photovoltaic power plant equipped with a multi-modular sunlight sensor and solar cell system, where the PV panels are in stacked configuration, and each PV panel level is illuminated by an optical fiber. The optical fibers are bounded in an optical fiber bundle, that is connected to a lens optic. The light is focused by the lens optics and is directed by the optical fiber bundle. Each optical fiber in the boundle is connected to an emitting device that focuses light at the level of the PV panel.

A disadvantage of the above solutions is that their spatial location is not favourable, and they do not have high mobility.

The aim of the invention is to provide a solar panel column, which is a portable device of any size and shape, has a small floor area, provides good space utilization, and can be operated with both natural and artificial light.

Another aim is to allow the utilization of light energy in vehicles, or other confined spaces.

The invention is based on the recognition that the power of solar panels can be increased not only by increasing the surface of the solar panels in direct contact with light, but also by providing a column with solar panels installed on levels located under one another, and by transmitting light between the levels by means of end-glow optical fibres.

In order to ensure sufficient light intensity between the levels and thereby the production of sufficient power, the ends of the end-glow optical fibres introduced between two levels are specially designed.

Thus the invention relates to a solar panel column for the production of direct current as defined in claim <NUM>, the main elements of which are a support structure, solar panels, a bundle of optical fibres and parabolic mirrors.

The support structure consists of spacer boxes with closed side walls, placed on top of one another, and levels formed between the spacer boxes. A support tube is fixed in the centre of the support structure.

The levels parallel to one another, formed between the spacer boxes, consist of a lower mounting frame and an upper mounting frame, which have the same floor area, and which are fixed to each other preferably by mounting screws. The lower mounting frames have openings and a circular bore in the centre, with the exception of the lower mounting frame located at the bottom of the support structure, which has no openings. The upper mounting frame has an open centre portion, its edges fit exactly the edges of the lower mounting frame.

The spacer boxes of the support structure, placed on top of one another, have the same floor area, they have closed side walls, and their open bottom portion is closed by an upper mounting frame, while their open top portion is closed by a lower mounting frame. The solar panels are placed on the lower mounting frames, and are covered by the upper mounting frames. The parabolic mirrors fit the upper mounting frames in such a way that their lower portion covers the solar panels completely.

The support tube is located in the centre of the support structure, passes through the bores of the lower mounting frames, and is fixed to the lowermost lower mounting frame.

A bundle of optical fibres is fixed to the support tube located in the centre of the support structure, surrounding the support tube.

The bundle of optical fibres consists of end-glow optical fibres. The bundle of optical fibres consisting of end-glow optical fibres covers the whole length of the support tube, but the length of the outermost optical fibres of the bundle of optical fibres is different, they end in different places. The design of the bundle of optical fibres consisting of end-glow optical fibres and fixed to the support tube is characterized by the alternation of cylindrical portions and truncated cone-shaped portions of the bundle of optical fibres. The truncated cone-shaped portions are formed by cutting and grinding the outermost optical fibres of the bundle of optical fibres, thereby the outermost optical fibres of the truncated cone-shaped portions consist of the ends of end-glow optical fibres. The truncated cone-shaped portions of the bundle of optical fibres are located between the levels, therefore, as a result of this design, the optical fibre ends illuminate the space between the relevant levels.

The cylindrical portions located at the levels are straight, in the cylindrical portions of the bundle of optical fibres there are no ends of end-glow optical fibres. The height of the cylindrical portions is the same, while the height of the truncated cone-shaped portions preferably increases from section to section from the top towards the bottom. The height of the truncated cone-shaped portions changes to such an extent that the surface area of the truncated cone-shaped portions between any two levels is the same.

The solar panels placed on the uppermost level of the support structure are exposed to natural or artificial light directly. The uppermost level of the support structure can be closed by a cover, which is useful when the solar panel column is transported, or is not in use.

In the solution according to the invention, the lower mounting frames of the support structure, with the exception of the bore, are covered by solar panels fixed by the upper mounting frames. Rectangular solar panels are arranged in the shape of a square on the lower mounting frames in such a way that they leave a square-shaped mounting opening in the centre for the bundle of optical fibres.

Solar panels located on the same level are connected in parallel, with two pole terminals, and the required voltage levels (e.g. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> volts) can be achieved by connecting the solar panels located on the levels placed on top of one another in series.

Each level is covered by solar panels, and between two levels there is a square-shaped parabolic mirror with rounded corners, the lower portion of which covers the solar panels. Its curved central, upper portion has a circular flanged opening, through which the bundle of optical fibres passes.

In the solution according to the invention the distance between the levels, the height of the spacer box, and the height of the parabolic mirror is the same as the height of the truncated cone-shaped portion located between the relevant levels.

The solar panels located on the uppermost level of the support structure are exposed to a natural or artificial source of light directly, while light is transmitted to the solar panels located on the other levels by means of the bundle of end-glow optical fibres and parabolic mirrors.

The uppermost level can be covered by a closing element, then the solar panels located on the uppermost level of the support structure are not exposed to light directly. The closing element is fixed to a lower mounting frame placed on the top portion of an additional spacer box. The horizontal portion of the closing element fits exactly the lower mounting frame, and a vertical, tubular portion in the centre holds the bundle of optical fibres extending beyond the support structure.

When the support structure is covered by the closing element, the top portion of the bundle of optical fibres can be connected to another bundle also consisting of end-glow optical fibres, an optical fibre cable. An optical fibre cable consists of sheathed optical fibres fixed around a support element, with the ends of the end-glow optical fibres located in one plane.

An optical fibre cable can be connected to additional optical fibre cables.

The support structures can be formed into various shapes, e.g. a cube, a column, a rectangle, etc., and connected into a block or blocks to achieve higher power levels. Solar panel columns can be connected into a block on a mounting base plate, by clamping screws located at the ends of the support structures. Electrical connection between the support structures can be made safely by wires and voltage regulators, as well as protection devices.

In a preferred embodiment the solar panel column has a support structure consisting of five levels, the levels are parallel to one another, and there are spacer boxes between the levels. There are four rectangular solar panels on the lower mounting frame of each level. The rectangular solar panels are arranged in the shape of a square in such a way that they leave a mounting opening in the centre of the square, which is not covered by the solar panels.

Desiccant silica gel bags are placed in the corners of the square-shaped mounting opening. A bundle of optical fibres passes in the centre of the square-shaped mounting opening formed by the solar panels. There are parabolic mirrors between the levels, the uppermost level does not have a parabolic mirror, as the solar panels on this level are exposed to the rays of light directly.

The bundle of optical fibres consisting of end-glow optical fibres and surrounding a support tube runs along the whole height of the support structure. The diameter of the bundle of optical fibres decreases from the top level towards the lower levels, with alternating straight cylindrical portions and truncated cone-shaped portions. The bundle of optical fibres is layered. The bundle of optical fibres is fixed to the support tube layer by layer, the thickness of the layers of optical fibres is the same, and the bundle of optical fibres consists of as many layers of optical fibres as there are levels in the support structure, which in this embodiment means five layers of optical fibres. The individual layers are held together and separated from one another by shrink tubes.

The spacer boxes have the same floor area, but have different heights, their height increases from the top of the support structure towards bottom, they have closed side walls, and their open bottom portion is closed by an upper mounting frame, while their open top portion is closed by a lower mounting frame.

The height of the spacer box and the parabolic mirror is the same as the height of the truncated cone-shaped portion located between the relevant levels. The height of the truncated cone-shaped portions increases from the top towards the bottom in such a way that the surface area of the truncated cone-shaped portions between any two levels is the same.

Another preferred embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that the uppermost level is covered by a closing element. The horizontal portion of the closing element fits exactly a lower mounting frame connected to an additional spacer box, and a vertical tubular portion in the centre of the closing element holds the bundle of optical fibres passing through it. The bundle of optical fibres can be connected to an optical fibre cable, and the optical fibre cable can be connected to additional optical fibre cables. An optical fibre cable consists of end-glow optical fibres.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the inlet end of the optical fibre cable of a support structure covered by a closing element is installed in the headlight of a vehicle, or led to the roof of the vehicle, while the support structure itself is located in the engine compartment, or in the rear boot of the vehicle.

In a further preferred embodiment, four support structures are connected into a rectangular block, forming a block of solar panel columns.

The invention will be described in detail with reference to the following figures, without being limited thereto:.

<FIG> shows a longitudinal sectional view of a solar panel column consisting of five levels. The support structure <NUM> comprises spacer boxes <NUM>, upper mounting frames <NUM> and lower mounting frames <NUM> forming levels, and a support tube <NUM>, which are fixed firmly to one another.

The support structure <NUM> has levels parallel to one another, each level consists of an upper mounting frame <NUM> and a lower mounting frame <NUM>, which are fixed to each other and to the spacer boxes <NUM> by mounting screws <NUM>. The levels located under one another are connected by clamping screws <NUM>. The distance between the levels increases from the top towards the bottom.

The support tube <NUM> located in the centre of the support structure <NUM>, running along the whole height of the support structure, is fixed to a threaded support stud <NUM> in the centre of the lower mounting frame <NUM> of the lowermost level by a self-locking nut <NUM> with a flat washer <NUM> from below, and a cylindrical head bolt <NUM> from above. The lowermost lower mounting frame <NUM> is fixed by lowermost frame bolts <NUM>. The support tube <NUM> is held by a support washer <NUM>.

The support tube <NUM> is made of PVC, the cylindrical head bolt <NUM>, the threaded support stud <NUM>, the flat washer <NUM> and the self-closing nut <NUM> are made of stainless material. The spacer boxes <NUM> are preferably made of coloured cellular polycarbonate.

The support tube <NUM> is surrounded by a bundle of optical fibres <NUM>. The bundle of optical fibres <NUM> runs in the centre of the support structure <NUM>, along the whole height thereof. The bundle of optical fibres <NUM> has - by design - two different types of portions alternating to form the bundle of optical fibres <NUM>: cylindrical portions <NUM> in the plane of the levels, and truncated cone-shaped portions <NUM> between the levels. In the shown embodiment there is a cylindrical portion <NUM> at the uppermost level, followed by a truncated cone-shaped portion <NUM> between the uppermost level and the level below it. The thickness of the truncated cone-shaped portion <NUM>, measured from the surface of the support tube <NUM>, gradually decreases between the two levels, thus resulting in a truncated cone shape. At the next level it is followed by a cylindrical portion <NUM>, then by a truncated cone-shaped portion <NUM> again, and so on, all the way down to the lowermost level. The diameter of both the cylindrical portions <NUM> and the truncated cone-shaped portions <NUM> decreases from the top towards the bottom, the height of the cylindrical portions <NUM> is the same, while the height of the truncated cone-shaped portions <NUM> increases towards the bottom. The cylindrical portions <NUM> are surrounded by silicone rubber rings <NUM>. The truncated cone-shaped portions <NUM> are protected by foil <NUM>.

The distance between the levels decreases from the bottom level towards the top level in such a way that the surface area of the truncated cone-shaped portions <NUM> of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> is the same between any two levels.

Solar panels <NUM> are placed on each lower mounting frame <NUM> of the support structure <NUM>. The closed surface of each lower mounting frame <NUM> is covered with silicone sealing rubber <NUM> having the same shape as the lower mounting frame <NUM>. The solar panels <NUM> are placed on the silicone sealing rubber <NUM> providing a flexible cushion. The solar panels <NUM> are fixed firmly to the lower mounting frame <NUM> by the upper mounting frame <NUM>. The upper mounting frame <NUM> closes on the outer edges of the solar panels <NUM> with liquid silicone rubber <NUM> sealing. The upper mounting frame <NUM> and the lower mounting frame <NUM> are fixed to each other by mounting screws <NUM>. The solar panels <NUM> are connected in parallel for direct current, with two pole terminals <NUM> for further connection. The solar panels <NUM> are covered with foil <NUM> on each level. Parabolic mirrors <NUM> are placed between the levels in such a way that their lower portion covers the whole surface of the solar panels <NUM> located on the relevant level, while the upper, central portion of the parabolic mirror <NUM>, having a flanged opening <NUM>, extends up to the middle of the level located above it, and the flanged opening <NUM> surrounds the cylindrical portion <NUM> of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM>.

The lower portion of the parabolic mirror <NUM> fits the lower mounting frame <NUM> on the continuation of the silicone sealing rubber <NUM>. The floor area of the parabolic mirrors <NUM> placed on the various levels is the same, but their height increases from the top towards the bottom. In this embodiment the solar panels <NUM> placed on the uppermost level are not covered by a parabolic mirror <NUM>.

The surface area of the truncated cone-shaped portions <NUM> of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> is the same between any two levels. The thickness of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM>, measured from the surface of the support tube <NUM>, decreases from level to level from the top towards the bottom, while the height of the truncated cone-shaped portions <NUM> increases and is the same as the height of the parabolic mirror <NUM> located on the relevant level.

The ends of the end-glow optical fibres of the truncated cone-shaped portions <NUM> of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> located between two levels illuminate the solar panels <NUM> and the inner surface of the parabolic mirrors <NUM> from level to level. The parabolic mirrors <NUM>, acting as reflectors, reflect the light falling on them from the end-glow optical fibres to the solar panels <NUM> located below them. The parabolic mirrors <NUM> with silvered inner surface are preferably made of plastic.

In this embodiment the solar panels <NUM> located on the uppermost level and the top portion of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> are exposed to the rays of light <NUM> directly, while the solar panels <NUM> located on the lower levels are exposed to light travelling through the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> and reflected by the parabolic mirrors <NUM> acting as reflectors.

<FIG> shows a top view of the support structure <NUM>, showing clearly the design of the uppermost level of the support structure <NUM>. On this uppermost level the upper mounting frame <NUM> fixes four rectangular solar panels <NUM> to the lower mounting frame <NUM>. The upper mounting frame <NUM> and the lower mounting frame <NUM> are fixed to a spacer box <NUM> by eight mounting screws <NUM>. Both the upper mounting frame <NUM> and the lower mounting frame are formed with four right-angled tabs at the corners. The tabs allow the assembling of the levels by four clamping screws <NUM>. The upper mounting frames <NUM> and the lower mounting frames <NUM> are made of plastic.

In the shown embodiment, the four solar panels <NUM> are placed side by side in the shape of a square and connected electrically in parallel in such a way that there is silicone sealing rubber <NUM> between the solar panels <NUM> and the lower mounting frame <NUM> and the solar panels <NUM> and the upper mounting frame <NUM>. There is a square-shaped mounting opening in the centre, which is not covered by the solar panels <NUM>, in this mounting opening a bundle of optical fibres <NUM> is arranged circularly around a central support tube <NUM>. The bundle of optical fibres <NUM> is surrounded by a shrink tube <NUM>, the shrink tube <NUM> covered cylindrical portions <NUM> of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM>, located at the levels, are surrounded by silicone rubber rings <NUM>. The diameter of the optical fibres forming the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> can be <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM>, depending on the dimensions of the solar panel column. The support tube <NUM> is fixed by a cylindrical head bolt <NUM>.

<FIG> show a side view and a top view of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> of the solar panel column.

As shown in <FIG>, the diameter of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> increases from section to section from the bottom towards the top. The bundle of optical fibres <NUM> consists of alternating cylindrical portions <NUM> and truncated cone-shaped portions <NUM>. The truncated cone-shaped portions <NUM> are covered on the outside with transparent foil <NUM>.

The cylindrical portions <NUM> are located at the levels of the support structure <NUM>, while the truncated cone-shaped portions <NUM> are located between the levels.

The bundle of optical fibres <NUM> is layered, in the case of a support structure <NUM> consisting of five levels the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> consists of five layers of optical fibres <NUM> of the same thickness, as shown in <FIG>. The innermost layer of optical fibres <NUM> is placed around a support tube <NUM> located in the centre of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM>, runs along the whole length of the support tube <NUM>, and is surrounded and fixed to the support tube <NUM> by a shrink tube <NUM>. The second layer of optical fibres <NUM> starts from the second level from the bottom, it is placed on the first layer of optical fibres <NUM> surrounded by a shrink tube <NUM>, and is also surrounded by a shrink tube <NUM>. The next layer of optical fibres <NUM> starts from the next level and is formed in the same way as described above. The bundle of optical fibres <NUM> consists of as many layers of optical fibres <NUM> as there are levels in the support structure <NUM>, and each layer of optical fibres <NUM>, even the outermost one, is surrounded by a shrink tube <NUM>. The shrink tube <NUM> covered cylindrical portions <NUM> of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> are surrounded by silicone rubber rings <NUM> as well.

The truncated cone-shape of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> between two levels is formed by grinding, thereby the shrink tube <NUM> is removed, and the light entering the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> is transmitted through ends of the elementary optical fibres. <FIG> shows well the layers of optical fibres <NUM> of the same thickness surrounding the support tube <NUM>, surrounded by shrink tubes <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the arrangement of four rectangular solar panels <NUM> on a lower mounting frame <NUM>.

The solar panels <NUM> are arranged on the lower mounting frame <NUM> in a characteristic manner, in the shape of a square, leaving a square-shaped mounting opening in the centre. The solar panels <NUM> are cushioned with silicone sealing rubber <NUM> fitting the lower mounting frame <NUM>. The four solar panels <NUM> are connected in parallel for direct current, with two pole terminals <NUM> for further connection.

<FIG> shows a side view of a parabolic mirror <NUM>.

The parabolic mirrors <NUM> fit over and around the solar panels <NUM> arranged in the shape of a square. The lower portion of the parabolic mirrors <NUM> is square-shaped, formed at the four corners as a rounded reflector. The upper portion of the parabolic mirrors <NUM> has a flanged opening <NUM>, through which the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> passes.

The inner height of the parabolic mirror <NUM> is the same as the height of the truncated cone-shaped portion <NUM> of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> located between the relevant levels. The flanged opening <NUM> extends up to half the height of the cylindrical portion <NUM> of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM>.

The parabolic mirrors <NUM> with silvered inner surface are made of ultramid plastic.

<FIG> shows a top view of a lower mounting frame <NUM>. The Figure shows the entire surface of the uppermost lower mounting frame <NUM> of the support structure <NUM>, while from the lower mounting frames <NUM> located below it only bores <NUM> of successively smaller diameters are shown.

The lower mounting frame <NUM> has four openings <NUM> and a circular bore <NUM> in the centre. The openings <NUM>, on the one hand, provide weight reduction for the support structure <NUM>, and on the other hand, provide a cooling surface for the solar panels <NUM> placed on the openings <NUM>. The lowermost lower mounting frame <NUM> of the support structure <NUM> has no openings <NUM>, in order to protect the solar panels <NUM> placed on this level from possible mechanical damage. The cylindrical portions <NUM> of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> passing through the bore <NUM> are surrounded by silicone rubber rings <NUM>.

The lower mounting frame <NUM> has eight mounting screws <NUM> for fixing the lower mounting frame <NUM> to an upper mounting frame <NUM> and a spacer box <NUM>. The lower mounting frame <NUM> is formed with four right-angled tabs at the corners. The tabs allow the assembling of the levels by four clamping screws <NUM>. In the case of support structures <NUM> placed side by side on a mounting base plate, the corner tabs provide cooling for the solar panels <NUM> by keeping the support structures <NUM> apart.

<FIG> shows a top view of a spacer box <NUM>.

A spacer box <NUM> is a square base box with eight mounting screws <NUM> for fixing to it an upper mounting frame <NUM> and a lower mounting frame <NUM>. The spacer boxes <NUM> have closed side walls, and they are open at the top and at the bottom.

The spacer boxes <NUM> are preferably made of coloured cellular polycarbonate sheets. The outer and inner corners of the spacer boxes <NUM> are covered with self-adhesive end sealing tape, which is moisture-proof and UV resistant. The coloured cellular polycarbonate is impermeable to infrared radiation, thus protecting the solar panel column from heating, and is UV resistant and rain-proof.

<FIG> shows the preferred design and arrangement of four silica gel bags <NUM> placed on a level.

Right-angled triangle-shaped silica gel bags <NUM> are glued to the lower mounting frame <NUM> in such a way that the two sides of the silica gel bags <NUM> enclosing a right angle fit the edges of the openings <NUM> of the lower mounting frame <NUM>, and their third side touches the silicone rubber ring <NUM> on the shrink tube <NUM> surrounding the bundle of optical fibres <NUM>.

There is no silica gel in the edge portions of the silica gel bags <NUM>, the solar panels <NUM> fit on these portions. These edges are glued to the lower mounting frame <NUM>.

The silica gel bags <NUM> keep the surface of the solar panels <NUM> and the inner surface of the parabolic mirrors <NUM> free from moisture. Preferably, <NUM> grams of desiccant silica gel is required per litre of air.

The size and weight of the silica gel bags <NUM> need to be adjusted to the dimensions of the particular solar panel column.

In the case of the solar panel column consisting of five levels shown in <FIG>, there are four silica gel bags <NUM> on each of four levels, there are no silica gel bags <NUM> on the uppermost level.

<FIG> shows a top view of an embodiment where the uppermost level of the support structure <NUM> is covered by a closing element <NUM>. The closing element <NUM> is placed on a lower mounting frame <NUM> placed on a spacer box <NUM> located on the lower mounting frame <NUM> holding the solar panels <NUM> of the uppermost level. Light is provided to the solar panels <NUM> located on the uppermost level by a parabolic mirror <NUM>.

The closing element <NUM> has a horizontal closed portion having the same shape as an upper mounting frame <NUM>, and a tubular portion in the centre (shown in <FIG>) perpendicular to the horizontal portion, which has a slot <NUM> on both sides. The tubular portion of the closing element <NUM> surrounds the bundle of optical fibres <NUM>. The function of the slots <NUM> is to fix the bundle of optical fibres <NUM>. The bundle of optical fibres <NUM> is surrounded by a shrink tube <NUM> and a silicone rubber ring <NUM>. The top view shows an optical fibre cable <NUM> connected to the bundle of optical fibres <NUM>, fixed around a support element <NUM> (shown in detail in <FIG>).

The horizontal portion of the closing element <NUM> fits exactly the lower mounting frame <NUM> of the uppermost level of the support structure <NUM>, and is fixed to it by eight mounting screws <NUM>. The horizontal portion of the closing element <NUM>, in the same way as an upper mounting frame <NUM>, is formed with four right-angled tabs at the corners. The tabs can be used to connect it to the level below it, together with the lower mounting frame <NUM>, by four clamping screws <NUM>.

The closing element <NUM> is made of plastic, preferably ultramid.

<FIG> shows a longitudinal sectional view of the support structure <NUM> covered by a closing element <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that at the uppermost level of the support structure <NUM> the horizontal closed portion of the closing element <NUM> fits the lower mounting frame <NUM> cushioned with silicone sealing rubber <NUM>, and is fixed to it by eight mounting screws <NUM>. The bundle of optical fibres <NUM> fixed around the support tube <NUM> passes through the central vertical, tubular portion of the closing element <NUM>. There is a silicone rubber ring <NUM> between the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> and the closing element <NUM>. The bundle of optical fibres <NUM> extends beyond the uppermost level of the support structure <NUM>. The tubular portion of the closing element <NUM> has a clamp, connected/located at the place of clamp <NUM> shown in the Figure.

The bundle of optical fibres <NUM> is connected to an optical fibre cable <NUM>.

The optical fibre cable <NUM> fixed around a support element <NUM> also consist of end-glow optical fibres, but the outer optical fibres are not shortened by cutting and grinding, that is all ends of the end-glow optical fibres are at the end of the optical fibre cable <NUM>, there is none on the side. The support element <NUM> of the optical fibre cable <NUM> fits the support tube <NUM> of the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> by means of a mounting stud <NUM> in such a way that there is an air gap <NUM> between the optical fibre cable <NUM> and the bundle of optical fibres <NUM>.

The mounting stud <NUM> consists of a spacer element <NUM> and two stems <NUM> connected to the spacer element <NUM>. In <FIG> the two stems <NUM> enclose an alpha (α) angle of <NUM>°, in <FIG> the two stems <NUM> enclose an alpha (α) angle of less than <NUM>°. The alpha angle depends on the required bending of the optical fibre cable <NUM>. The spacer element <NUM> of the mounting stud <NUM> provides an air gap <NUM> between the bundle of optical fibres <NUM> and the optical fibre cable <NUM>.

The optical fibre cable <NUM> can be connected to additional optical fibre cables <NUM> by mounting studs <NUM>.

Ideally, the optical fibre cable <NUM> is led into a particular location in a straight line, but changes in the direction of the optical fibre cable <NUM> may be required, especially in vehicles.

For changes in direction, preferably mounting studs <NUM> designed at an angle are used, as shown in <FIG>.

The end or ends of the optical fibre cable <NUM> shall be cut and ground at an angle corresponding to the angle of the mounting stud <NUM>, then the optical fibre cable <NUM> ends formed this way shall be connected with the mounting stud <NUM>.

The gaps between optical fibre cables <NUM> connected at an angle shall be insulated from the outside, or sealed in a reliable manner.

A shrink tube solution can also be used for sealing the connections between individual optical fibre cable <NUM> sections.

The mounting studs <NUM> are preferably made of ultramid, or other plastic by injection moulding.

The upper end of the optical fibre cable <NUM> is closed by a tube plug <NUM> fitting into the support element <NUM>. The length of the optical fibre cable <NUM> is determined by the application of the solar panel column.

The upper, inlet end of the optical fibre cable <NUM> is cut at an angle to provide the most efficient exposure to light. The cut surface of the optical fibre cable <NUM> is covered with foil <NUM> after grinding, the optical fibre cable <NUM> is preferably surrounded by sheathing.

<FIG> shows the design of a custom-designed sheathed optical fibre cable <NUM> for connection to the bundle of optical fibres <NUM>.

The custom-designed sheathed optical fibre cable <NUM> comprises: a support element <NUM>, which is a PVC tube, an optical fibre cable <NUM>, protective Kevlar fabric layers <NUM>, a protective aluminium sheet wrapped around the Kevlar fabric layers <NUM> in two rows in a spiral to ensure flexibility, and a PVC sheath <NUM> protecting the aluminium sheet <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a top view of a mounting clamp <NUM>. The mounting clamp <NUM> can be used for connecting and fixing to each other two optical fibre cable <NUM> sections. When optical fibre cables <NUM> are connected, the support elements <NUM> of two optical fibre cables <NUM> are connected by a mounting stud <NUM> located in the centre of the mounting clamp <NUM>, and the ends of the two optical fibre cables <NUM> to be connected are located opposite to each other in a cavity in the centre of the mounting clamp <NUM>. It would be difficult to connect two optical fibre cables <NUM> by connecting ends of elementary fibres to ends of elementary fibres of the optical fibre cables <NUM>. The spacer element <NUM> of the mounting stud <NUM> provides an air gap <NUM> between the connected optical fibre cables <NUM>. As a result of the air gap <NUM>, the scattering of light emitted by the ends of the elementary fibres of the optical fibre cable <NUM> acts on a larger surface, thereby the inlet ends of the optical fibres of the connected optical fibre cable <NUM> are exposed to better light conditions.

The two connected optical fibre cables <NUM> are fixed by a bolt passing through mounting bores <NUM> located on the rim portion of the mounting clamp <NUM>. The mounting clamp <NUM> has screw holes. The space between the two connected optical fibre cables <NUM> is sealed from the outside with insulating tape to prevent any dirt or water from entering.

The mounting clamp <NUM> is preferably made of stainless steel.

<FIG> show a lateral cross-sectional view and a front view of an optical fibre cable <NUM> installed in the headlight <NUM> of a vehicle, which optical fibre cable <NUM> is connected to the bundle of optical cables <NUM> of a support structure <NUM> covered with a closing element <NUM>.

The end of the optical fibre cable <NUM> installed in the headlight <NUM> follows the curve of a parabolic mirror. A special, custom-designed parabolic mirror solution, protruding in the lower part, provides favourable light conditions for the inlet portion of the optical fibre cable <NUM>. The headlight reflector <NUM> is closed by a headlight glass <NUM>, the headlight reflector <NUM> contains a headlight bulb <NUM>, and the inlet portion of the optical fibre cable <NUM> is located below it. The headlight reflector <NUM> is formed as a parabolic mirror. The optical fibre cable <NUM> installed in the headlight <NUM> can utilize the rays <NUM> of both natural light and artificial light. It can make use of favourable sunlight conditions both when the vehicle is moving and when it is parked.

The solar panels produce direct current by converting light energy. By connecting the solar panels producing direct current in series and in parallel, and with proper voltage regulation, different voltage levels can be achieved.

The solar panels located on the uppermost level of the solar panel column according to the invention are exposed to natural or artificial light directly, the natural or artificial light, as well as the diffuse light surrounding the light source enters the bundle of optical fibres, or the outdoor inlet end of an optical fibre cable, thus light travels through the bundle of optical fibres to the inner spaces between the levels, to the solar panels and the inner surface of the parabolic mirrors.

Light is provided to the solar panels located on the lower levels through a specially designed bundle of optical fibres. The power produced by the lower levels exposed to light through the optical fibres of the bundle of optical fibres decreases from the top towards the bottom, the solar panels located on the uppermost level (exposed to light directly) provide <NUM> to <NUM> % more power.

Rays of light emitted by the bundle of end-glow optical cables formed in the shape of a truncated cone transmit their energy to the parabolic mirror surrounding the truncated cone-shaped portion, and to the solar panels located under the parabolic mirror.

In the case of the invention, in order to achieve approximately the same level of power on each level, preferably approximately the same light conditions are provided at the ends of the layers of optical fibres formed into truncated cone-shaped portions. Therefore, the height of the truncated cone-shaped portions increases towards the bottom. The intensity of light is further increased by the increasing surface area of the parabolic mirrors from the top to the bottom.

The solar panel columns can operate in PV-systems in island operation, e.g. in vehicles. Due to their portability, they have a wide range of other applications compared to conventional "board" systems.

Blocks formed from solar panel columns can be operated in PV-systems connected to the grid, but also in island operation.

They can also be connected to conventional solar panel boards, to create combined, mixed systems.

The easiest way to stop the operation of a solar panel column system in island operation, whether it is a fixed or a mobile system, is to interrupt the flow of light by covering the uppermost level of the support structure, or the end of the optical fibre cable. A more advantageous solution is to "oversize" the energy storing capacity by installing more battery(ies) into the system to absorb the excess power, in the case of systems connected to the grid energy overproduction is not a problem.

The solar panel columns are repairable, defective parts can be replaced. The so called "hot spot" failure can occur only in solar panel columns not covered by a closing element.

The solar panel columns according to the invention, due to their spatial usability and mobility, are well suited for land, water, and air vehicles.

Electric cars designed with the solar panel columns have a significantly longer range, although an external charging current source is still required, but with less charging current consumption. Currently the average range of electric cars per charge is <NUM>-<NUM>.

By using the invention, the range can be significantly increased, even beyond the range of internal combustion engines with one refuelling.

Solar panel columns or blocks can be advantageously used in caravans and motorhomes also for charging additional batteries.

The solution applicable to vehicles can work well in sunny weather. Naturally, the position of a vehicle on the move influences the position of the headlights, which can often be shaded from the rays of light.

Solar panel columns equipped with optical fibre cables can provide charging current even when the car is parked, if they are exposed to sunlight.

Optical fibre cables leading to the roof of the body can be located in several places in the body of a vehicle. Thus, for example, in the "C" pillars of cars and along the edges of the rear windscreen. Such places need to be designed, just as the places of solar panel columns covered with a closing element need to be designed in the engine compartment and behind the rear seats, etc. In buses, the pillars between the side windows offer an opportunity for leading optical fibre cables to the roof. And the space below the floor offers an opportunity for placing solar panel columns covered with a closing element there. The area around the bundles of optical fibres led to the roof of the body needs to be sealed against rain with a special sealing cap.

There are possible solutions for water and air vehicles as well, which also require designing.

The bundle of end-glow optical fibres or optical fibre cable installed in the headlights of vehicles can also be installed in the parabolic mirrors of floodlights. Thus, for example, optical fibre cables installed in the lighting fixtures of exhibition halls, sports halls, stadiums, warehouses, etc. having a strong light can use the artificial light for producing direct current by means of solar panel columns covered with a closing element.

The direct current so produced can be used for operating computers, lighting, scoreboards, etc..

The side light ("waste light") of floodlights can be utilized in the lighting system of so called "smart houses", by connecting them to a block of direct current producing solar panel columns.

Claim 1:
A solar panel column, which is a device working on the principle of photovoltaic effect, producing direct current, and which comprises a support structure (<NUM>) containing at least two levels parallel to each other, solar panels (<NUM>) placed on the levels, parabolic mirrors (<NUM>) located between the levels, and a bundle of optical fibres (<NUM>) consisting of end-glow optical fibres located in the centre of the support structure (<NUM>), where the solar panels (<NUM>) located on the same level are connected in parallel, with two pole terminals (<NUM>), and the solar panels (<NUM>) located on the levels placed on top of one another are connected in series,
characterized in that
the levels of the support structure (<NUM>) consist of a lower mounting frame (<NUM>) and an upper mounting frame (<NUM>) connected to each other, the lower mounting frame (<NUM>) has a circular bore (<NUM>) in the centre, and the solar panels (<NUM>) are placed on the lower mounting frame (<NUM>),
the support structure (<NUM>) also comprises a support tube (<NUM>) located in the centre thereof and passing through the bores (<NUM>), and at least one spacer box (<NUM>) with closed side walls separating the levels,
the bundle of optical fibres (<NUM>) surrounding the support tube (<NUM>) runs along the height of the support structure (<NUM>), the bundle of optical fibres (<NUM>) consists of alternating cylindrical portions (<NUM>) and truncated cone-shaped portions (<NUM>), the surface of the truncated cone-shaped portions (<NUM>) is covered by the ends of end-glow optical fibres, the parabolic mirrors (<NUM>) have a square-shaped lower portion of the same floor area, and cover the whole surface of the solar panels (<NUM>) located on the relevant level, their upper, curved portion has a flanged opening (<NUM>), the flanged opening (<NUM>) surrounds the bundle of optical fibres (<NUM>), the height of the parabolic mirror (<NUM>) is the same as the height of the truncated cone-shaped portion (<NUM>) located between the relevant levels, and the optical fibre ends of the truncated cone-shaped portions (<NUM>) illuminate the space between the levels.