Tag: Parameswar Harikumar

PARTICLE FLOW CONTROL SYSTEM

Patent Pending 

• This system is directed to a material flow control system to distribute and control flow of a particulate heat transfer material.  The invention is designed to improve the efficiency and reliability of concentrating solar power (CSP) systems but can apply to metering any gravity-feed particle flow system within a broad temperature range.  

• Current technology to control particle flow generally uses a simple slide gate that is limited by the accuracy of the actuators connected to it and their propensity to erode the valve surfaces and possibly plug the particle flow stream. The present invention employs an axial passage that changes the area of the opening by adjusting the position of fitted fingers similar in concept to the chuck on a drill.  The accuracy and rapid response of this axial valve results in more accurate control of the particle flow, reduces valve surface erosion and minimizes plugging potential….

IMPROVEMENTS IN SILICON SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL EFFICIENCY 

Patent Pending  

• The invention enhances the efficiency of silicon photovoltaic solar cells by facilitating the downshifting of wavelengths so that crystalline silicon can absorb wavelengths in the range suitable for conversion. This is achieved by coating silicon with specific films of the order of nanometers thickness. 

• Power conversion efficiencies of 10% or more can be achieved for a small percentage increase in the cost of solar cells. The thin film also increases the life of a solar cell.  A layer of polydimethylsiloxane applied over the perovskite quantum dots will increase its usable life. 

• This invention is significant because 85 -90% of solar cells in today’s market are made of silicon solar cells. Crystalline Silicon (c-Si) solar technology is the most prominent form of solar cell technology in the U.S. residential market, yet the efficiency of these specific solar cells has plateaued over the last 15 years….