초록 ▼

A solar array switching (SASU) unit (22) according to the present invention includes a control system (24), a solar cell array (26) and switch circuits (28). The SASU unit (22) is associated with a power card (30) for receiving an output from the array (26). The array (26) has a number (0.5Y) of row

A solar array switching (SASU) unit (22) according to the present invention includes a control system (24), a solar cell array (26) and switch circuits (28). The SASU unit (22) is associated with a power card (30) for receiving an output from the array (26). The array (26) has a number (0.5Y) of rows (38) each of which includes a pair of cell strings (42) separated by one of the switch circuits (28). Each of the strings (42) includes a number (X) of cells in electrical series. The SASU (22) switches the array (26) between a short string configuration where the array (26) effectively includes Y strings of X length, and a long string configuration where the array (26) effectively includes 0.5Y strings of 2X length. The SASU (22) thereby facilitates the use of solar power for space missions where solar intensity, operating temperature or other factors vary significantly.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A solar power system for a spacecraft, comprising:a) a solar array including:i) a first cell string including a first number of first solar cells arranged in series free from any intervening switch element interposed between any two of said first solar cells;ii) a second

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A solar power system for a spacecraft, comprising:a) a solar array including:i) a first cell string including a first number of first solar cells arranged in series free from any intervening switch element interposed between any two of said first solar cells;ii) a second cell string including a second number of second solar cells arranged in series free from any intervening switch element interposed between any two of said second solar cells;iii) a third cell string including a third number of third solar cells arranged in series free from any intervening switch element interposed between any two of said third solar cells; andiv) a fourth cell string including a third number of third solar cells arranged in series free from any intervening switch element interposed between any two of said third solar cells; andb) configuration means for switching said solar array between a first configuration wherein said first string is arranged in parallel with each of said second, third and fourth strings, and a second configuration wherein said first string is in series with one of said second, third and fourth strings.