PORTABLE SOLAR POWER SOURCE
A portable solar power source is provided which will convert solar energy into electrical energy to provide electrical power to an array of devices normally accompanying those who enjoy being in outdoor areas or on rivers or lakes. The device is made to be portable by having wheels and a handle so that it may be pulled like a cart or wagon. The portable device of the present invention further includes one or more solar panels, which are deployed from a substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical position with respect to the transport device. In the preferred embodiment the solar panels are double junction amorphous solar panels. Such panels have the greatest efficiency and produce electrical energy from light energy even if the solar panels are not in the direct sunlight.
1 . A portable system for providing electrical energy in outdoor areas, said system comprising:
one or more solar panels pivotally attached to a solar panel support; said solar panel support having wheels mounted thereon to enable transport;
means for converting light energy received by said one or more solar panels into electrical energy;
at least one electrical outlet for providing electrical energy to a device requiring electrical power for operation.
2 . The portable system of claim 1 , wherein said solar panel support comprises a rigid tubular frame.
3 . The portable system of claim 2 , wherein said tubular frame is constructed of metal.
4 . The portable system of claim 2 , wherein said tubular frame is constructed of high strength plastic.
5 . The portable system of claim 1 , wherein said solar panel support comprises a tubular frame.
6 . The portable system of claim 1 , wherein said one or more solar panels are pivotally attached said solar panel support by means of pivotal mounts.
7 . The portable system of claim 6 , wherein said pivotal mounts include a ratchet mechanism for selectively and fixably positioning said solar panels at a specific angular alignment with respect to the solar panel support.
8 . The portable system of claim 6 , wherein said pivotal mounts include a friction mechanism for selectively and fixably positioning said solar panels at a specific angular alignment with respect to the solar panel support.
9 . The portable system of claim 1 , wherein said solar panel support is a monocoque construction.
10 . The portable system of claim 9 , wherein said solar panel support includes an inset portion for receiving said solar panel.
11 . The portable system of claim 9 , wherein said solar panel support is constructed of metal.
12 . The portable system of claim 9 , wherein said solar panel support is constructed of high-strength plastic.
13 . The portable system of claim 9 , wherein said solar panel support includes an integral light fixture.
14 . The portable system of claim 9 , wherein said solar panel support comprises a refrigerated compartment.
15 . The portable system of claim 9 , wherein said solar panel support includes an outlet panel.
16 . The portable system of claim 9 , wherein said solar panel support comprises an internal storage compartment.