Retractable solar arrays for unmanned underwater vehicles
AssigneeBAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc.
InventorsMatthew F. Kepler, Jerrod S. Allen, John C. Cobb, III, Jeffrey Smith
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The system and method of retractable solar arrays for underwater vehicles. In some cases, the retractable solar arrays for underwater vehicles contain anti-biofouling mechanisms. The retractable solar arrays may extend in a linear or a fan-like manner. In some cases, the solar array may be wrapped around the outside of the underwater vehicle or within a cylindrical housing. In some cases the solar array is a single flexible member with a series of connected panels.
Claims20
A solar array for an underwater vehicle, comprising:
- a plurality of interconnected solar panels configured to form a solar array when deployed;
- at least one compartment on the underwater vehicle for stowing the plurality of interconnected solar panels when retracted;
- and
- at least one battery in an interior of the underwater vehicle wherein the battery is electrically coupled to the solar panels,
- wherein when the solar array is deployed, the solar array charges the battery on board the underwater vehicle when the underwater vehicle reaches a predetermined depth below the surface of a body of water.
An underwater vehicle, comprising:
- a solar array mechanically coupled to an exterior of the underwater vehicle, the solar array comprising at least one solar panel, the solar panel having a frame on at least three sides of the panel;
- at least one sensor configured to determine a depth of the underwater vehicle;
- an electronics charging section housed in an interior of the underwater vehicle;
- at least one battery housed in an interior of the underwater vehicle, wherein the electronics charging section is electrically coupled to the at least one battery;
- and
- a bulkhead connector allowing for electrical coupling between the solar array and the charging electronics,
- wherein the solar array starts charging the battery through the electronics charging section when the underwater vehicle reaches a predetermined depth below a surface of the water.
A method of charging at least one battery on an underwater vehicle, comprising:
- monitoring a charge level of the battery;
- indicating charging is required when the charge level falls below a lower threshold;
- detecting a depth of the underwater vehicle;
- deploying a solar array when the depth reaches a predetermined depth;
- extending the solar array;
- and
- charging the battery.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.