Multiple Quantum Wells for Optical Spectral Concentrator and Optical Energy Transport

Technology Description

UC San Diego researchers have developed a method and device design for the spectral concentration of multi-wavelength light (e.g., solar energy ranging from far infrared to ultraviolet, into light of wavelengths within a narrow spectral width) and subsequent transport of the concentrated output light. This wavelength conversion is enabled in the invention by a semiconductor photo-detecting device that incorporates multiple quantum wells. The spectrally concentrated output light is such that its constituent wavelengths are suitable for transmission over optical fiber. In the example of sunlight impinging upon the device, the output light can be routed through optical fiber to irradiate photovoltaics with bandgaps matching the narrow output spectral width, thus augmenting the photocurrent and solar cell efficiency.

Applications

Applications of this spectrally concentrated, fiber-transported output light include remote conversion of light energy to electricity for general purpose needs, as well as room heating, room illumination, or solar illumination for agriculture without first converting to electrical energy. Applications of this spectrally concentrated, fiber-transported output light include remote conversion of light energy to electricity for general purpose needs, as well as room heating, room illumination, or solar illumination for agriculture without first converting to electrical energy.

Intellectual Property Info

This technology is currently patent pending and available for sponsored research and/or licensing.

Related Materials

• Winning Entry in 2008 Clean Tech Innovation Challenge
• http://www.jacobsschool.ucsd.edu/news/news_releases/release.sfe?id=793

Patent Status