| Entries |
| Document | Title | Date |
|---|
| 20080236569 | System and Method for Concentrating Sunlight - A system for concentrating solar energy is provided. The solar concentrating system uses a membrane formed of a flexible material to form either a reflective or refractive surface of a predefined shape. A quantity of fluid disposed on the membrane deforms the membrane into the predefined shape. In one embodiment the fluid is a liquid and the deformation of the membrane is determined by the mass of fluid and the effect of gravity. In another embodiment, the fluid is a gas and the deformation of the membrane is determined by the pressure of the gas contained in a cavity formed by the membrane on the bottom and a transparent layer forming the top surface of the cavity. | 10-02-2008 |
| 20080236570 | SOLARANLAGE - The present invention relates to a solar energy system ( | 10-02-2008 |
| 20080245360 | Tilt Assembly for Tracking Solar Collector Assembly - A tilt assembly is used with a solar collector assembly of the type comprising a frame, supporting a solar collector, for movement about a tilt axis by pivoting a drive element between first and second orientations. The tilt assembly comprises a drive element coupler connected to the drive element and a driver, the driver comprising a drive frame, a drive arm and a drive arm driver. The drive arm is mounted to the drive frame for pivotal movement about a drive arm axis. Movement on the drive arm mimics movement of the drive element. Drive element couplers can extend in opposite directions from the outer portion of the drive arm, whereby the assembly can be used between adjacent solar collector assemblies in a row of solar collector assemblies. | 10-09-2008 |
| 20090013990 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR COLLECTOR - The invention concerns a concentrating collector comprising a cover ( | 01-15-2009 |
| 20090025708 | Rolling Motion Tracking Solar Assembly - A tracking solar assembly includes a base, a first support and a second support. A solar panel is mountable the base. The first support may comprise a first curved, rolling surface fixed relative to the base. The first and second supports are engageable with the support surface. The first curved surface can be rolled along the support surface to move the base between first and second orientations. The base and any solar panel may have sufficient weight to be inherently stable and resist wind loads without being secured to the support surface. The invention may comprise means for biasing the base to a chosen orientation at or between the first orientation and the second orientation. The upper surface of the base may have open regions extending into the base with solar panels mounted within the open regions with the open regions acting as solar concentrators for the solar panels. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090038608 | Multi-receiver heliostat system architecture - A system architecture for large concentrated solar power applications that increases heliostat utilization efficiency and land utilization efficiency is described. Embodiments of the invention include a large heliostat field in which are distributed a number of receiving locations, and wherein there is the assignment of heliostats to receiving locations is dynamic. Embodiments of the invention include dynamically targeting heliostats to receiving locations wherein the target determination process is performed frequently during operation and wherein such dynamic targeting can be utilized to various ends. Embodiments of the invention include configurations wherein cosine losses associated with heliostat pointing are significantly reduced, wherein heliostats may be closely packed without incurring substantial shadowing and blocking losses thereby significantly increasing land utilization, and wherein other benefits are realized. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090056699 | Linear fresnel solar arrays and receievers therefor - Described herein are solar energy collector systems, components for solar energy collector systems, and methods for installing solar energy collector systems. The components for solar energy collector systems include but are not limited to solar radiation absorbers, receivers, drives, drive systems, reflectors, and various support structures. The solar energy collection systems, solar radiation absorbers, receivers, drives, drive systems, reflectors, support structures, and/or methods may be used, for example, in LFR solar arrays. Improved solar radiation absorbers, receivers and related methods are described here. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090078248 | Economical Polar-Axis Solar Tracker for a Circular Reflective Dish - The most urgent need in the field of solar energy is to lower the final cost per watt of all involved components. Some of the most expensive components within a solar tracker go into the precision drive system which accurately follows the motion of the sun. This invention reduces the complexity and the required number of drive components in a tracker optimized for reflective dishes. With this invention a single drive motor can keep 20 or more large reflective dishes accurately tracking the sun, whereas 40 drive motors with more complex control systems would typically be required for the same number of dishes. In addition this invention allows for complete inversion of the dishes, which helps reduce dust accumulation on the optical surfaces and lowers wind resistance during storms. | 03-26-2009 |
| 20090101136 | ELECTRIC WIND ADJUSTABLE FRESNEL REFLECTOR SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - This invention deals with novel method and apparatus for positioning and motion control of the elements (mirrors) of a Fresnel reflector solar concentrator tracking heliostat array by rapid-response motorless linear motion, angular deflection, and rotational motion utilizing electric wind force due to electrons, ions, and/or neutrals. Thus forces and torques are produced without the use of internal moving parts. Control is achieved without recourse to magnetic fields, by means of high electric fields which may be attained at relatively low voltages. At low voltages, the instant invention exceeds the capability of conventional systems. It can perform dynamic motion control over a wide range of dimensions and signal bandwidth with independent amplitude and frequency modulation. It is ideally suited for maximization of solar energy focused by the array onto a receiver. Since there are no internal moving parts, the instant invention is the most adapted for fabrication at the micro and nanotechnology realms. Furthermore it provides less costly and greater ease of manufacture from the nano-to the macro-realm. | 04-23-2009 |
| 20090101137 | SUN TRACKING SYSTEM PRESSURE DIFFERENTIAL DRIVING SYSTEM - A first coolant tank is arranged on first side of a solar energy collecting panel, a second coolant tank is arranged on second side of the solar energy collecting panel. A first wall is arranged beside the first coolant tank, a second wall is arranged beside the second coolant tank. When the sun shifts, one of the coolant tanks is covered partially by one of the walls and hence receives less heat than the other. The pressure difference between the two coolant tanks is used to adjust the solar energy collecting panel so that the panel tracks the sun to receive maximum heat. | 04-23-2009 |
| 20090107485 | CALIBRATION AND TRACKING CONTROL OF HELIOSTATS IN A CENTRAL TOWER RECEIVER SOLAR POWER PLANT - A suntracking system for a central receiver solar power plant includes a heliostat field for reflecting sunlight to a receiver, cameras directed toward at least a subset of the heliostats, and a controller. The cameras are configured to produce images of sunlight reflected from multiple heliostats. The heliostats include a mirrored surface having a settable orientation and have a geometry modeled by a set of parameters. A method of estimating heliostat parameters for open-loop suntracking includes acquiring pointing samples by setting the direction of reflection of the heliostats and detecting concurrent sunlight reflections into the cameras. The method uses the acquired pointing samples and surveyed locations of the cameras to estimate the heliostat parameters. The method accurately maintains the sun's reflection directed toward the receiver open-loop utilizing the estimated tracking parameters. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090120428 | LATCHING SOLAR CONCENTRATOR PIVOTED MIRRORS DURING OFF-POWER PERIOD - A novel latch for pivoted optical elements of a solar concentrator and other equipment latches them in position between orientation operations. The mirrors may be on a universal pivot that can rotate or tilt in any direction; or on gimbal pivots. The orientation power can be turned off between alignments with the mirrors remaining in alignment orientation during this off-power period. Turning off the alignment power between alignments, saves on both energy resources and on expensive apparatus. It permits a great reduction in power supply as the optical elements can be aligned sequentially. This not only reduces operating costs, but also capital investment because smaller power supplies can suffice. A preferred embodiment utilizes the freezing of a liquid material. Since this involves no moving parts for latching, the instant invention is ideally adapted for fabrication from the nano- to the mini-realm. | 05-14-2009 |
| 20090133686 | SOLAR COLLECTION APPARATUS, SOLAR COLLECTION ARRAYS, AND RELATED METHODS - A solar collection apparatus includes a housing with a first opening, a second opening, and a partially-mirrored floor. The device includes fins with first and second end segments and curved bodies. Both sides of the fin bodies have the same curvature, and both sides are mirrored. The curved bodies of the fins all have the same curvature. The floor and the second end segments of the fins together define a light pipe. Light impinging on the first opening of the housing is directed into the light pipe by reflection between adjacent faces of adjacent fins. The second end segments of the fins prevent the light within the light pipe from exiting the light pipe in the first direction. Light within the light pipe exits the light pipe at the second opening, where it may be stored, or may be directed to a solar energy device such as a solar cell, turbine, or vehicle heater. | 05-28-2009 |
| 20090139512 | Solar Line Boiler Roof - A solar energy devices comprises a plurality of half cylinder troughs along a slanted roof of a static structure. The sun light entering the trough is reflected onto a secondary collector situated at a focus line of the primary collector. Light is directed onto a boiler tube contain a fluid to be used in an appropriate thermal cycle. Solar panels may be provided on surfaces along the secondary collector to power portions of the system. Braces can be provided to support the secondary collector over the primary collector. Reflectors may be provided to redirect light away from the braces onto the primary collector | 06-04-2009 |
| 20090145423 | Solar-panel unit - A solar-panel unit is provided with: an attachment structure; at least one solar panel, which is delimited by an extensive plane surface of incidence of the solar radiation and is connected to the attachment structure; and a hinging assembly, set between the attachment structure and the solar panel, to enable rotation of the solar panel with respect to the attachment structure about an inclined hinge axis forming an angle smaller than 90° with a horizontal plane. | 06-11-2009 |
| 20090159074 | FRESNEL SOLAR CONCENTRATOR WITH INTERNAL-SWIVEL AND SUSPENDED SWIVEL MIRRORS - This invention deals with novel method and apparatus for positioning and motion control of the elements (mirrors) of a Fresnel reflector solar concentrator tracking heliostat array wherein the elements are suspended with the center of mass below the swivel point, or have an internal-swivel. This achieves an advantageous natural vertical stability. The torque to produce angular deflection, and rotational motion is provided separately by an electric wind force due to electrons, ions, and/or neutrals; or in combination with an induced and/or permanent dipole coupling to an electronic grid. Thus forces and torques are produced without the use of internal moving parts such as in motors. The instant invention exceeds the capability of conventional systems. It is ideally suited for maximization of solar energy focused by a low-profile concentrator array onto a receiver. Since there are no internal moving parts, the instant invention provides less costly and greater ease of manufacture. Dynamic motion can be controlled over a wide range of dimensions from nanometers to decimeters. | 06-25-2009 |
| 20090159075 | SOUTHERLY TILTED SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A solar tracking system and method are provided. | 06-25-2009 |
| 20090188487 | Self ballasted celestial tracking apparatus - The invention is a wind resistant celestial tracking apparatus that uses gravitational forces acting on the moving elements of the structure to provide overturning resistance. A molded self curing compound, such as reinforced concrete, is used as the structural material that provides the mass, and thus the gravitational overturning resistance that reduces or eliminates the need for a massive ballasted or dug-in foundation. The combination of these features potentially lowers cost significantly over that of tracking apparatuses found in prior art. The invention is appropriate for use in any celestial tracking application with any number of axes of motion, but is particularly useful in two axis solar energy collection systems. | 07-30-2009 |
| 20090217921 | METHOD AND CONTROL SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SOLAR POWER TOWER SYSTEM - A solar energy collection system includes a primary solar receiver and a secondary solar receiver. The secondary solar receiver generates steam using energy from solar radiation incident thereon. The primary solar receiver receives the generated steam from the secondary solar receiver and superheats the steam using energy from solar radiation incident thereon. A plurality of heliostat-mounted mirrors reflects incident solar radiation onto one of the primary and secondary solar receivers. A controller aims a portion of the heliostat-mounted mirrors at the primary solar receiver such that a predetermined thermal profile is provided on a surface of the primary solar receiver. | 09-03-2009 |
| 20090255527 | SOLAR-POWERED SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING UTILITIES - A solar-powered system and method for producing a utility, such as electricity, hot water, and/or potable water is disclosed. The system may be configured to produce the utilities alone or in combination. The system may comprise a fluid medium, a converter, one or more solar concentrators, a storage tank, a collection tank, a dehydration tank, and one or more safety features. The system may be closed-loop or open-loop. | 10-15-2009 |
| 20090260620 | Inflatable solar energy collector apparatus - An inflatable solar energy collector. The device uses two elongated and pressure-stabilized air chambers with a trough-shaped reflecting surface in between. The curvature of the reflecting surface is adjusted by adjusting the differential pressure between the two air chambers. The device can be configured to provide a focal point outside the air chambers or inside the air chambers. For the version using the external focal point an external energy receiver is appropriately positioned. For the version using the internal focal point, the receiver is mounted inside one of the air chambers. | 10-22-2009 |
| 20090260621 | SCORE AND FORM SOLAR REFLECTOR - A curved surface structure for reflecting solar light, heat or electromagnetic radiation is made by scoring two opposing pairs of curved bend lines along one pair of opposing edges of a sheet of bendable material, dividing it into a center section joined by curved bend lines to curved ribs, joined by curved bend lines to respective curved edges; bending the curved ribs down and curved edges up along the bend lines to nominally right angles to form a curved surface supported by two curved ribs and two curved edges. Two straight ribs and respective straight edges may be scored and formed on the other pair of opposing edges of the sheet. A backside sheet may be applied to the four edges. A widthwise corrugated, elongate right angle reinforcement member may be employed for strengthening the formed bend lines. | 10-22-2009 |
| 20090293861 | SOLAR TRACKER SYSTEM AND METHOD OF MAKING - A solar tracker system and method for making are disclosed. The system may comprise a solar panel array assembly having at least two attachments, a support anchor assembly for attaching to a surface and having at least two attachments, and a support structure including a plurality of elongated support rods for securing the array assembly above the support anchor assembly. Each support rod may be attached at one end to one of the attachments of the solar panel array and attached at the other end to one of the attachments of the support anchor assembly. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090301465 | Method and System for Delivering Electrical Power from Upper Earth Atmosphere to Ground-based Distribution Systems - A solar energy collector/converter in space must somehow transmit energy to the ground-based distribution system. This invention provides a way to send the energy with low transit energy loss by suspending receivers and conduits in the air using vessels which are buoyant in the atmosphere. The conduits contain conductive transmission lines for conveying electrical power, and tubes and remotely controlled valves for sustaining the load-bearing arrangement and buoyancy of the vessels. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090301466 | SOLAR TRACKER WITH MOVEMENT IN TWO AXES AND ACTUATION IN ONLY ONE OF THEM - According to FIG. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20100000517 | SUN POSITION TRACKING - Tracking the position of the sun is provided where light from sources other than direct sunlight can be ignored. In particular, lights from various sources can be passed through differently angled polarizers to determine radiation energies from the polarizers. This can indicate whether the original light is polarized or substantially non-polarized, like the sun. Additionally, the light can be passed through a spectral filter to reject light not falling within a spectrum of wavelengths or having weak intensity with respect to direct sunlight. Subsequently, the light can pass through a ball lens and quadrant cell configuration to optimally align a device or apparatus to receive the direct sunlight. Additionally, the size of a focus point of the light through the ball lens and onto the quadrant cell can determine a collimation of the light, which can indicate direct sunlight as well. | 01-07-2010 |
| 20100012111 | RAIL-TYPE SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM WITH FOCUSING FUNCTION - The invention relates to a rail-type solar tracking system with a focusing function. The invention includes a plurality of support elements, a Fresnel lens, a rail platform, a load bearing platform and a pushing device. The system moves a solar cell on the load bearing platform to a focus position where sunlight is focused by the Fresnel lens to collect solar energy. Hence, the invention collects solar energy without moving heavy lens so as to reduce power consumption and improve the electric power generating efficiency of the solar cell. | 01-21-2010 |
| 20100012112 | ENERGY COLLECTOR SYSTEM HAVING EAST-WEST EXTENDING LINEAR REFLECTORS - Disclosed herein are examples and variations of solar energy collector systems comprising an elevated linear receiver extending generally in an east-west direction, a polar reflector field located on the polar side of the receiver, and an equatorial reflector field located on the equatorial side of the receiver. Each reflector field comprises reflectors positioned in parallel rows which extend generally in the east-west direction. The reflectors in each field are arranged and positioned to reflect incident solar radiation to the receiver during diurnal east-west processing of the sun and pivotally driven to maintain reflection of the incident solar radiation to the receiver during cyclic diurnal north-south processing of the sun. Inter-row spacings of the reflectors on opposite sides of the receiver may be asymmetrical. | 01-21-2010 |
| 20100037887 | Man Made Island With Solar Energy Collection Facilities - A man-made island adaptable for land-based operation holds solar energy collection facilities and is rotatable to optimize the angular orientation thereof relative to the position of the sun. A platform includes a large outer ring that floats on a fluid and a flexible cover is attached to the ring to define an airtight volume below the cover. A plurality of rows of solar radiation collector modules are located above the cover and carry steam generating heat pipes. The rows of modules are supported laterally above the cover by an upper support structure, either a space frame, a plurality of cables, or a honeycomb. A compressor creates an over-pressure within the enclosed volume to vertically support the cover and the other components mounted thereabove. | 02-18-2010 |
| 20100043777 | SOLAR COLLECTOR SYSTEM - The present invention provides a solar collector apparatus, comprising a horizontally-mounted cylindrical reflector, divided along its length into two reflector segments, each having its own axis of rotation. Preferably, the two reflector segments are produced by dividing the horizontally-mounted cylindrical reflector down its centerline into two equal reflector segments. The two reflectors segments perform novel tracking with different rotation angles about their corresponding axes by use of a trapeze coupling or a mechanism that permits separate tracking. Since the two reflector segments are coupled, preferably only one tracking mechanism (trapezoid or other) is required since the reflector segments preferably have parallel axes. | 02-25-2010 |
| 20100051015 | LINEAR SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION SYSTEM - A modular linear solar energy collection system comprises one or more reflector units each having a light-weight generally planar aluminum frame that mounts a number of solar panels in a fixed position at angles which progressively increase from the frame centerline outwardly to its perimeter so as to collectively form a surface having a shape approximating that of a parabola. The focal line of such parabola is coincident with a secondary reflector which receives sunlight incident on the solar panels and reflects such light onto a receiver tube mounted in a fixed position concentric to the centerline of the frame. The frame is connected to a drive mechanism operative to pivot the frame and solar panels in order to track the position of the sun during the course of a day. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100051016 | MODULAR FRESNEL SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION SYSTEM - A modular linear Fresnel solar energy collection system comprises one or more reflector units having a number of spaced, elongated solar panels that extend between a pair of opposed, light-weight aluminum beams. A first drive mechanism rotates the solar panels at angles progressively increasing from the center of the two beams to their ends so that each panel reflects incident sunlight to a secondary reflector located above the panels. The secondary reflector, in turn, reflects the sunlight it receives from the solar panels onto a receiver tube mounted in a fixed position substantially concentric to a central axis extending between the two aluminum beams. A second drive mechanism is coupled to one of the beams which is operative to pivot the assembly of beams, solar panels and secondary reflector between a generally easterly direction and westerly direction in order to track the apparent movement of the sun during the course of a day. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100051017 | GLOBAL SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM - A system may include determination of whether solar tracking of a first period of time is to be performed in a first region of sky or in a second region of sky, determination of a target tracker position in a first coordinate system if the solar tracking of the first period of time is to be performed in the first region of sky, and determination of the target tracker position in a second coordinate system if the solar tracking of the first period of time is to be performed in the second region of sky. In some aspects, determination of the target tracker position in the second coordinate system includes subtracting 360° from an azimuth angle in the first coordinate system if the azimuth angle in the first coordinate system is between +180° and +360°, wherein the azimuth angle in the second coordinate system is determined to be equal to the azimuth angle in the first coordinate system if the azimuth angle in the first coordinate system is between 0 and +180°. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100078011 | Ultra-compact, linear, solar-thermal steam generator - Direct solar thermal steam generator with an ultra-compact linear Fresnel reflector field that has “travel and turn” capability by means of independent linear and rotational motion of reflectors. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100101559 | BIAXIAL SOLAR TRACKER - The invention includes a fixed platform bearing a circular rail, supporting rolling elements to which is attached a mobile frame with a sloping structure which holds a number of solar panels, grouped in rows, the panels of each row being connected to corresponding support shafts, supported on the sloping structure, and a device for moving the frame and shafts in accordance with a predetermined configuration. The frame includes a base with attached thereto the rolling elements and the sloping structure is raised above the base, at a distance from the fixed platform and formed by two supporting beams that delimit an oblique plane and are separated from each other by a distance greater than the diameter of the rail. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100126497 | SOLAR TRACKER SYSTEM AND METHOD OF MAKING - The solar array is attached to a support structure which permits it to pivot about two non-parallel and non-intersecting axes. The array may then be easily moved to track the sun, maintaining the production of electricity. The structure may be adapted for attachment to a surface such as the ground. | 05-27-2010 |
| 20100139646 | Torque Arm Assembly and Method - A torque arm assembly, used with a solar collector mounted to a drive shaft, comprises a torque arm with first and second ends and a torque arm coupling assembly including a drive shaft enclosure defining an open-ended channel sized to house the drive shaft. The channel has a circumferentially extending substantially continuous drive surface between the ends that lies adjacent to the drive shaft so the drive shaft and the drive shaft enclosure rotate together. In some examples contiguous abutment structure, such as weld lines, shims and/or adhesive, connects each side of the drive shaft to the drive shaft enclosure. The invention may also be carried out as a connection improvement method. | 06-10-2010 |
| 20100147286 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS INCLUDING FEATURES OF SYNCHRONIZED MOVEMENT ACROSS AND ARRAY OF SOLAR COLLECTORS - Systems and methods are disclosed related to solar modules and/or arrays of solar modules provided with synchronized movement. According to one exemplary implementation, an illustrative array may comprise a plurality of solar modules. Each solar module may rotate on an axis, and each axis may be in a parallel configuration relative to the other axes. A first rotation mechanism of a solar module may be configured for rotating/pivoting around a first axis/pivot, and be linked to a corresponding rotation mechanism of a adjacent or sequential solar module. | 06-17-2010 |
| 20100163015 | SOLAR CANOPY CONNECTOR SYSTEM - A solar canopy connector system for attaching a solar power array to a Zee channel, including: an anchor member for affixing to a top portion of a Zee channel and for resting against the bottom portion of two solar power arrays; a planar step section; a riser section; and an angled kick section for hooking an edge portion of a Zee channel. Also included is a head member for attaching to the anchor member for clamping the two solar power arrays between a bottom portion of the head member and a top portion of the anchor member, including an elongated form including multiple sections, the sections including: two vertical planar riser sections; a horizontal joiner section; two horizontal planar clamping sections, for clamping solar power arrays, thus forming a U-like assembly with flanges extending from the two top portions of the U-like assembly; where the head member can be affixed to the anchor member, where a bottom portion of the solar power arrays rests on a top portion of the planar step section of the anchor member, and a bottom portion of the planar clamping sections of the head member rests on a top portion of the solar power arrays, thereby clamping the two solar power arrays to the Zee channel. | 07-01-2010 |
| 20100206294 | HELIOSTAT FIELD CLEANING SYSTEM - Systems and methods of heliostat reflector cleaning via a vehicle in a heliostat field. | 08-19-2010 |
| 20100236539 | SOLAR CONCENTRATOR AND PORTABLE TRACKING DEVICE - The present disclosure relates to a concentrator, particularly a terrestrial solar concentrator to harness the sun's energy, and a tracking system. The concentrator includes a parabolic or other curved reflective surface and an absorber positioned at the focus of the curved reflective surface. Parabolic ribs give shape to the reflective surface. The tracking system includes a rotating, swiveling, or pivoting joint. One or more cables attach to the tracking system. Selectively applying tension to the cables causes the tracking system to rotate, swivel, or pivot at the joint to track an object. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100236540 | DEVICE FOR COLLECTING SOLAR RADIATION - A device for collecting solar radiation without guiding the orientation thereof relative to the sun position is disclosed. The device includes at least one photovoltaic solar collector having a face sensitive to the solar radiation, at least one reflecting surface for reflecting the solar radiation towards the sensitive face of the collector, and an orientation apparatus for supporting the solar collector. The orientation apparatus providing an orientation and an inclination to the sensitive face of the collector in relation to the reflecting surface. The reflecting surface is conformed so that, at least during predetermined periods of a day and at least during predetermined days of a year, solar radiation reflected by the reflecting surface reaches the sensitive face of the solar collector with a minimized angle of incidence when the device is arranged in a predetermined orientation. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100242949 | SUNLIGHT COLLECTING HEAT RECEIVER - A sunlight collecting heat receiver includes: a heat-exchange heat receiving tube which receives sunlight collected by heliostats and transfers the sunlight to a heat carrier, wherein the heat-exchange heat receiving tube includes an outward-flow heat receiving tube which is disposed on the upstream in a sunlight incident direction and an inward-flow heat receiving tube which is connected to the outward-flow heat receiving tube through a U tube and is disposed on the downstream in the sunlight incident direction, and wherein the outward-flow heat receiving tube and the inward-flow heat receiving tube are arranged so as to be deviated from each other in the transverse direction perpendicular to the height direction when seen in the sunlight incident direction. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100252025 | SOLAR RECEIVER - A solar energy conversion system may include a receiver with a first heat transfer fluid channel having at least two opposite sides. Each side may present an external surface facing in a direction opposite to that of the external surface of the other opposite side. Each side may be configured to contact a heat transfer fluid carried in the first heat transfer fluid channel. A heliostat field may be configured to direct solar energy to each of the at least two opposite sides during the course of a day such that a thermal stress tending to bend the channel remains below a specified level. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100263659 | SOLAR TRACKER SYSTEM AND METHOD OF MAKING - The solar array is attached to a support structure which permits it to pivot about two non-parallel and non-intersecting axes. The array may then be easily moved to track the sun, maintaining the production of electricity. The structure may be adapted for attachment to a surface such as the ground. | 10-21-2010 |
| 20100269816 | STATIONARY PARABOLIC SOLAR POWER SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS FOR COLLECTING SOLAR ENERGY - A solar energy collector system includes a base, and a parabolic trough collector carried by the base for reflecting sunlight to a longitudinal focal line. The parabolic trough collector includes a center section horizontally positioned with respect to ground, and opposing end sections adjacent the center section. Each end section is angled towards the ground. A conduit is positioned along the longitudinal focal line to receive the reflected sunlight. The conduit circulates a heat transfer liquid therethrough to be heated by the reflected sunlight. | 10-28-2010 |
| 20100275904 | THERMAL-MECHANICAL POSITIONING FOR RADIATION TRACKING - The invention relates to systems and methods for controlling angular position of a pivotable platform relative to a radiation source. In one embodiment, an apparatus for controlling angular position of a pivotable platform relative to a radiation source includes a frame, a thermal actuation element coupled to the frame, a pivotable platform positioned between the radiation source and the thermal actuation element so as to at least partially block energy from the radiation source from impinging on the thermal actuation element, and apparatus for pivoting the pivotable platform in response to a thermally controlled deformation of the thermal actuation element. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100282242 | SOLAR POWER TOWER SYSTEM OPERATION AND CONTROL - A solar energy collection system includes a primary solar receiver and a secondary solar receiver. The secondary solar receiver generates steam using energy from solar radiation incident thereon. The primary solar receiver receives the generated steam from the secondary solar receiver and superheats the steam using energy from solar radiation incident thereon. A plurality of heliostat-mounted mirrors reflects incident solar radiation onto one of the primary and secondary solar receivers. A controller aims a portion of the heliostat-mounted mirrors at the primary solar receiver such that a predetermined thermal profile is provided on a surface of the primary solar receiver. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100326424 | Residential solar thermal power plant - A high-efficiency residential solar thermal power plant for economically generating power from solar-thermal energy, using a parabolic trough mirror having a longitudinal focal axis, for concentrating sunlight, a timer rotator for rotating the mirror about the focal and longitudinal rotation axis to follow the sun, and a heat collector surrounding a flow channel that preferably has an oblong cross-sectional shape with a major axis aligned with a longitudinal plane of symmetry of the parabolic trough mirror. The heat collector is coaxially positioned along the focal axis of said mirror to receive concentrated sunlight so that a working fluid is heated and provided for use through an outlet end of the heat collector. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100326425 | Dish reflector concentrator structure - In a reflector dish, a small quantity of elongate mirror-surfaced reflector panels are structurally integrated with a support framework that is configured to enable convenient shipping and on-site assembly and erection of a reflector dish assembly with an effective reflecting surface that closely approximates a desired parabolic dish shape with short focal length, synthesized from combination of the reflector panels originally procured as flat rectangular sheet metal panels and formed to provide the desired dish curvature. The panels can be conveniently shipped to location along with a corresponding quantity of reinforced crescent-shaped support frames to which the panels are made to attach as structural elements, by novel attachment hardware, for erection at the operational site. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20100326426 | SOLAR TRACKER WITH PARABOLIC CONCENTRATOR - The invention relates to a solar tracker with parabolic concentrator, comprising a parabolic concentrator ( | 12-30-2010 |
| 20110005512 | ADJUSTABLE SOLAR PANEL SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A solar panel mount comprising an end cap which supports the solar panel on a support structure. A support frame is pivotably supported by the end cap and the support frame has a plurality of cross members secured to a top surface thereof. A plurality of transverse members are secured to a top surface of the plurality of cross members and the plurality of transverse members are adjustable along a length of the cross members to accommodate different size solar panels. Each traverse member generally comprises an elongate inverted T-shaped base member and mating clamp member which is attached thereto by at least one fastener. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110005513 | LINEAR FRESNEL SOLAR ARRAYS - Disclosed herein are examples and variations of solar energy collector system comprising an elevated linear receiver ( | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110023866 | SOLAR RECEIVER FOR A SOLAR CONCENTRATOR WITH A LINEAR FOCUS - A solar receiver for a linear-focusing solar concentrator, comprising, a base, which is elongated in a direction parallel to a focal line and carries an array of strip-shaped targets arranged orthogonal to said focal line and set at a distance apart from one another in a direction parallel to the focal line; a focusing assembly including an array of optical elements arranged for focusing solar radiation on said strip-shaped targets, the focusing assembly being mobile with respect to the base of the photovoltaic receiver in a direction parallel to said focal line; and an azimuthal pointing device, designed to move the focusing assembly with respect to said base as a function of the position of the sun. | 02-03-2011 |
| 20110048405 | PARABOLIC TROUGH COLLECTOR - A parabolic trough collector includes a parabolic mirror support structure with a parabolic mirror surface applied thereto, and an absorber support structure supporting an absorber tube. The parabolic mirror support structure and the absorber support structure are mechanically fastened in a fixed position relative to one another on a torsion tube that is arranged below the parabolic mirror surface, and mounted together with the parabolic mirror surface in a fashion capable of rotation about a parabolic trough collector longitudinal rotation axis. The torsion tube is arranged such that the parabolic trough collector longitudinal rotation axis coincides with the central longitudinal axis of the torsion tube. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110048406 | TRACKING SOLAR PANEL MOUNT - A solar panel mount that tilts the panel about one or more axes toward the direction facing the sun when it is shining, through the action of one or more mechanical means, each effecting tilt about at least one of the axes, and each responding to a particular direction of sunlight with respect to the base or panel, through directionally-sensitive solar radiation absorbing means. In one set of preferred embodiments the mechanical means are length-changing actuators in which a temperature-responsive working fluid drives levers to lift a side of the panel. In a second set of embodiments, the mechanical means are tension-changing actuators in which temperature-responsive folded springs retract to pull the panel to a side. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110056484 | SELF-ERECTING GIMBAL MOUNTED SOLAR RADIATION COLLECTORS - A solar radiation collector system may includes a gimbal with a rim that supports a solar radiation concentrator or collector assembly passing through the plane of the rim, and foundation structures that support and anchor the gimbal, allowing it to both rotate and be raised or lowered. One flexible structural member may support the gimbal rim and a second flexible structural device both anchors the rim and enables the gimbal-collector assembly to rotate around an axis parallel to the earth's polar axis providing the desired primary tracking motion following the daily apparent motion of the sun. Motion between the gimbal and the solar radiation collector assembly allows the assembly to follow the apparent seasonal motion of the sun, among other tasks. | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110067687 | Tracking Fiber Optic Wafer Concentrator - A solar power system for supplying concentrated solar energy. The system includes a cylindrical absorber tube carrying the working fluid and a concentrator assembly, which includes an array of linear lenses such as Fresnel lenses. The concentrator assembly includes a planar optical wafer paired with each of the linear lenses to direct light, which the lenses focus on a first edge of the wafers, onto the collector via a second or output edge of the wafers. Each of the optical wafers is formed from a light transmissive material and acts as a light “pipe.” The lens array is spaced apart a distance from the first edges of the optical wafers. This distance or lens array height is periodically adjusted to account for seasonal changes in the Sun's position, such that the focal point of each linear lens remains upon the first edge of one of the optical wafers yearlong. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110067688 | SOLAR CONCENTRATOR SYSTEM FOR SOLAR ENERGY PLANTS - Certain embodiments make use of an array of passive primary concentrators positioned on the ground that provide primary concentrated solar radiation from below to an array of tracking secondary concentrators. The secondary concentrators further concentrate the solar radiation to one or more centralized receivers. The solar concentrator system may include apparatus for collection of solar radiation, concentration, and the absorbance of the concentrated solar energy. Some embodiments of the solar concentrator system include a large field of passive horizontal primary concentrators, overhead tracking secondary concentrators, and one or more receivers, which convert solar radiation into usable products or energy, such as electricity. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110067689 | PRIMARY CONCENTRATOR WITH ADJUSTED ETENDUE COMBINED WITH SECONDARIES ASSOCIATED TO MULTIPLE RECEIVERS AND WITH CONVECTION REDUCTION - The present invention relates to primary and secondary concentrators of solar radiation. New primary concentrators of adjusted etendue combined with secondary concentrators are presented, for single of multiple receivers, capable of attaining the maximum possible concentration. The present invention also refers to devices which reduce the thermal losses by convection of the receivers. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110079215 | CONFIGURATION AND TRACKING OF 2-D "MODULAR HELIOSTAT" - A system and method of collecting solar energy from sunlight, employing a thermal generation apparatus having a solar collector module including a receiver in optical communication with an array of mirrors. The method comprises reflecting energy impinging upon the reflector assembly with a plurality of reflective elements. The plurality of reflective elements is configured to direct energy reflected therefrom onto the receiver. The solar collector module is configured to rotate about an axis; and an angular position of the plurality of reflective elements is changed in relation to relative movement of the sun with respect to earth. | 04-07-2011 |
| 20110088686 | Lightweight, low cost solar energy collector - A lightweight solar concentrator of the reflecting parabolic or trough type is realized via a thin reflecting film, an inflatable structural housing and tensioned fibers. The reflector element itself is a thin, flexible, specularly-reflecting sheet or film. The film is maintained in the parabolic trough shape by means of a plurality of tensioned fibers arranged to be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the parabola. Fiber ends are terminated in two spaced anchorplates, each containing a plurality of holes, which lie on a desired parabolic contour. In a preferred embodiment, these fibers are arrayed in pairs with one fiber contacting the front side of the reflecting film and the other contacting the back side of the reflecting film. The reflective surface is thereby slidably captured between arrays of fibers, which control the shape, and position of the reflective film. Gas pressure in the inflatable housing generates fiber tension to achieve a truer parabolic shape. A plurality of bridges and or retention clips may be employed in certain embodiments to maintain the position of the reflective surface relative to the fibers. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110100354 | NON-ELECTRICALLY-POWERED SUN-TRACKING SOLAR SYSTEM - A non-electrically-powered sun-tracking solar system has a shaft, a solar panel, two roll drivers, a roll transmitter, two pitch drivers and a pitch transmitter. The shaft has a lower shank and an upper shank pivotally mounted upon the lower shank. The solar panel is pivotally mounted on the upper shank. The two roll drivers are ecliptically and bilaterally attached to the solar panel. The roll transmitter pivotally connects the upper shank and the solar panel and communicates with the two roll drivers. The two pitch drivers are meridionally and bilaterally attached to the solar panel. The pitch transmitter pivotally connects the lower shank and the upper shank and communicates with the two pitch drivers. Uneven heating by sunlight activates the roll drivers to change pitch and roll of the solar panel with the roll transmitter and the pitch transmitter for improved efficiency. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110108019 | HELIOSTAT JOINT - A heliostat includes a joint with a range of motion in both elevation and azimuth of more than 90 degrees. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110132352 | SUN-TRACKING SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR APPARATUS - A sun-tracking solar energy collector apparatus includes an east-west driving shaft body and a south-north driving shaft body which are coupled in the shape of a cross. A first driving member of an east-west shaft sleeve of the east-west driving shaft body is actuated to turn the south-north driving shaft body in an east-west direction. A second driving member of the south-north driving shaft body is driven by the first driving member to turn an east-west driving shaft of the east-west driving shaft body in a south-north direction and to drive an annular member which is connected with the ends of the east-west driving shaft, such that a holding rack assembly connected with the annular member is actuated in east-west and south-north directions. Solar energy collector modules of the holding rack assembly can track to collect solar energy. Due to the base body in cooperation with the effect of tracking sun, the area occupied by the base body is larger. Thus, the surroundings of the base body can be adapted for parking, charging of a motor-driven vehicle and the like, enhancing its total generating capacity and providing better usage. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110139145 | TRACKER DRIVE SYSTEM AND SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION SYSTEM - A tracker drive system is provided for rotatably driving one or more objects, for example solar panels or other equipment. The system comprises a torque element mounted for rotation about a generally horizontal axis, wherein the torque element can support one or more objects for rotation therewith about the generally horizontal axis; a lever arm connected with the torque element, the lever arm being movable to rotate the torque element; a movable drive member that is drivable by a drive mechanism; and a dynamic coupler coupling the drive member with the lever arm such that the lever arm is drivable by the drive member to rotate the torque element. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110146662 | INTEGRATED PANEL WITH SKYLIGHT, VENTILATION, SOLAR HOT WATER SYSTEM AND SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC/LIGHTING SYSTEM - An integrated alternative energy roofing panel incorporates an array of solar concentrator tubes interconnected with transparent web to form a joined plate supported in frame elements with an attached working fluid manifold. The working fluid in the manifold is operatively in contact with the solar concentrator tubes for transferring heat from the tubes. In one exemplary construction, each of the solar concentrator tubes terminates in a conducting metal sleeve which extends beyond the frame element into the manifold. A safety glass panel is attached to one frame element beneath the joined plate. The joined plate and safety glass panel may be sealed to the frame elements to form a chamber and the chamber may be evacuated. A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are embedded in the web for supplemental lighting. An array of photovoltaic cells mounted to a top surface of the manifold and a battery are interconnected for powering the LEDs. The manifold incorporates a compartment to house the battery as a portion of the integrated panel. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110146663 | METHOD FOR CONTROLLING HELIOSTAT USED FOR CONDENSING OF SUNLIGHT AND DEVICE THEREOF - Provided are a method for controlling a heliostat used for collecting of sunlight and a device of the method that achieve: a high sunlight collecting efficiency with a high light collecting rate by allowing no deviation of a light collecting point (a focal point) of sunlight; and a high area arrangement efficiency by having such a configuration in which no rotation by means of a rotation mechanism is carried out. The method is a method for controlling a heliostat being used for collecting of sunlight and having multiple reflecting mirrors in a way that the heliostat tracks the sun in motion, reflects sunlight, and collects the sunlight at a predetermined focal point. The method includes: a step of adjusting the multiple reflecting mirrors so that the multiple reflecting mirrors have a focal point at a predetermined distance; and a step of controlling the multiple reflecting mirrors to track the sun while light beams reflected from the reflecting mirrors have a focal point at an arbitrary point, the multiple reflecting mirrors being configured to tilt in conjunction with each other. In the method, while maintaining a state where the coordinates of predetermined points of the respective reflecting mirrors are fixed, the reflecting mirrors are operated in conjunction with each other. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110155120 | Torque Arm Assembly and Method - A torque arm assembly, used with a solar collector mounted to a drive shaft, comprises a torque arm with first and second ends and a torque arm coupling assembly including a drive shaft enclosure defining an open-ended channel sized to house the drive shaft. The channel has a circumferentially extending substantially continuous drive surface between the ends that lies adjacent to the drive shaft so the drive shaft and the drive shaft enclosure rotate together. In some examples, contiguous abutment structure, such as weld lines, shims and/or adhesive, connects each side of the drive shaft to the drive shaft enclosure. The invention may also be carried out as a connection improvement method. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110162637 | LIGHTWEIGHT LOW-COST SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - Disclosed is a Lightweight low-cost solar concentrator comprising two sheets which are connected or sealed to each other on their outer periphery to define a gasproof chamber which is inflated with air or gas ( | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110168164 | IN SITU REGOLITH GAS RECOVERY SYSTEM - A system for releasing and capturing gases from a regolith material has a frame that is movable to define a capture space on a regolith material. A mirror captures solar energy, and focuses energy through a lens and on a regolith defined within the captured space. Apparatus is provided for capturing released gas. A method of operating such a system is also disclosed and claimed. In addition, a method of forming structural material is also disclosed and claimed. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110180057 | Structure and Articulation System for Solar Collectors - Solar energy may be harvested utilizing arrays of solar collectors, supported and articulated to follow movement of the sun. Particular systems include arrays of solar collectors mounted on an elevation-azimuth tracking structure. From the ground up, embodiments of this system may include a Ground Interface, a Base, an Upper Truss, and a Collector. The system is designed to transmit loads with minimal deflection from the surface of the collector to the ground, while tracking the position of the sun across the sky. The use of structural, actuator, and collector elements with a minimum amount of low-cost materials, and which are able to be mass produced, allows large scale deployment of the system at reduced cost. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110209696 | THREE POINT SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A three point solar tracking system and method are provided. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110214665 | Tracking Fiber Optic Wafer Concentrator - A solar power system for supplying concentrated solar energy. The system includes a cylindrical absorber tube carrying the working fluid and a concentrator assembly, which includes an array of linear lenses such as Fresnel lenses. The concentrator assembly includes a planar optical wafer paired with each of the linear lenses to direct light, which the lenses focus on a first edge of the wafers, onto the collector via a second or output edge of the wafers. Each of the optical wafers is formed from a light transmissive material and acts as a light “pipe.” The lens array is spaced apart a distance from the first edges of the optical wafers, This distance or lens array height is periodically adjusted to account for seasonal changes in the Sun's position, such that the focal point of each linear lens remains upon the first edge of one of the optical wafers yearlong. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110214666 | FIXED FOCUS PARABOLIC TROUGH COLLECTOR - The fixed focus parabolic trough collector comprises a mirror structure ( | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110220092 | REFLECTIVE SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION SYSETM - The present application provides a primary reflector in a solar collection system. The primary reflector includes a first reflective section that can reflect solar rays onto a first focal line, a second reflective section on the left side of the first reflective section, and a third reflective section on the right side of the first reflective section. The second reflective section can reflect solar rays to the right side of the first focal line. The third reflective section can reflect solar rays to the left side of the first focal line. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110232630 | SOLAR COLLECTOR/WIND DEFLECTOR CONVERSION OF A SOLAR AND WIND CONVERTER - An integrated solar and wind hybrid energy generating system is capable of converting a solar collector to a wind deflector to increase wind catching area for the wind turbine during the nighttime and on overcast days and exchangeable between modes of Stirling cycle and reversed Stirling cycle for electricity generation and environmental control. During the sunny days, the system concurrently derives energy from both wind and solar energy sources. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110240006 | Solar Tracking System and Method - A solar tracking system for controlled movement of an array of solar panels and a method for installing the system is provided. The system includes an elongate drive shaft rotatable about a central axis and mechanically coupled to an array of solar panels which are rotatable about the drive shaft. A plurality of posts support the drive shaft along the length of the drive shaft, and a plurality of couplers couple the posts to the drive shaft in a manner that facilitates adjustment of the position and orientation of the couplers relative to the posts during installation of the system, and in a manner which minimizes the contact area between the couplers and the drive shaft to reduce the torque and power requirements of the system. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110265783 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTING SYSTEM - A solar energy collecting system arranged to gradually and stepwise heat a thermal fluid in thermal receivers, interconnected via an insulated tube and configured in parallel serially connected subgroups. The receivers are heated by optical elements arranged to reflect solar radiation upon the receivers, aligned according to specified temporal-spatial patterns, relating to the terrain and the solar motion. Receivers and optical elements may be positioned at specified locations and heights that maximize the energy yield. The configuration of the receivers and the optical elements may be adapted to storage and transport requirements. The system is highly modular and efficient in energy production and storage. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20120006317 | Solar Tracker - A free-standing solar tracker comprises a base, a support frame, a panel assembly comprising one or more solar panels, and an actuator to rotate the panel assembly to track the movement of the sun. The solar tracker is designed to be free-standing and requires no foundation. When the solar tracker is deployed, the base forms a pan to contain a ballast material for holding the base in place. The base of the solar tracker is designed to serve as a “suitcase” to contain most of the components of the solar tracker, making it easier to transport the solar tracker | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006318 | METHOD OF CONCETRATING SOLAR ENERGY - A method of concentrating solar energy includes receiving solar energy through a surface of an optically clear shell, guiding the solar energy through a liquid contained in the optically clear shell, folding the solar energy back through the liquid toward a solar receiver, and shifting the solar receiver within the optically clear shell to track the sun, wherein the solar energy collected by the solar receiver is converted into electrical energy. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120031393 | Opposing Row Linear Concentrator Architecture - A solar concentrator assembly is disclosed. The solar concentrator assembly comprises a first reflector facing in a first direction, a second reflector facing in a second direction, the second direction opposite the first direction, and a rotational member having a long axis transverse to the first and second directions, the rotational member disposed between and coupled to each of the first and second reflectors. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031394 | Opposing Row Linear Concentrator Architecture - A solar concentrator assembly is disclosed. The solar concentrator assembly comprises a first reflective device having a first reflective front side and a first rear side, a second reflective device having a second reflective front side and a second rear side, the second reflective device positioned such that the first reflective front side faces the second rear side, and a support assembly coupled to and supporting the first and second reflective devices, the second reflective device positioned to be vertically offset from the first reflective device. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120067336 | Device for Supporting a Sun-Tracking Unit of a Photovoltaic Module - An adjustable device for supporting a sun-tracking unit includes a framework and first and second supporting elements. The framework includes lower and upper portions. The lower portion of the framework includes two transverse long tubes and a longitudinal long tube for interconnecting the transverse long tubes. The upper portion of the framework includes two vertical tubes each extending from a related one of the transverse long tubes, two transverse short tubes each extending from a related one of the vertical tubes, and a longitudinal short tube for interconnecting the transverse short tubes. The first supporting element is connected to the transverse short tubes. The second supporting element is adjustably connected to the first supporting element. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120067337 | Rotatable Panels on an Exterior of a Structure that Directs Solar Energy within the Structure - In one aspect of the present invention, a structure comprises a plurality of reflective panels secured to the structure. Each reflective panel has an axis of rotation. A processing element controls an orientation of each reflective panel about its axis of rotation to direct solar energy within the structure. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120111317 | Seasonally Adjusting Apparatus for Collecting Solar Thermal Energy - The seasonally adjusting apparatus for collecting solar thermal energy comprises a solar thermal collector, a top panel, a bottom panel, and a frame. The solar thermal collector absorbs sunlight to produce thermal energy. The top panel and the bottom panel are positioned on opposite sides of the solar thermal collector and regulates how much sunlight is absorbed by the solar thermal collector during each season. The top panel and the bottom panel each have a shading surface and a reflecting surface. The shading surface casts a shadow over the solar thermal collector during the summer months when the sun's position is higher in the sky. The reflecting surface bounces more sunlight onto the solar thermal collector during the winter months when the sun's position is lower in the sky. The frame properly positions each component so that the solar thermal collector absorbs the appropriate amount of sunlight during each season. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120167872 | Solar Energy Collecting Device - A solar energy collecting device includes a spherical concentrator, a track, a sliding element, and at least one solar panel. The track is curved and has a center overlapping with that of the spherical concentrator. The sliding element is disposed on the track, and is controlled to move along the track according to the motion of the Sun during the course of a day. The solar panel is mounted on the sliding element to move along with the sliding element. The solar panel faces the spherical concentrator. Thus, the sunlight can be focused on the solar panel by the spherical concentrator throughout the day. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120174908 | SOLAR COLLECTION SYSTEM AND SOLAR COLLECTOR THEREFOR - A solar collection system is described that includes an elongate central truss angled upward from ground horizontal and mounted on a plurality of ground support legs, a collector subsystem mounted at one end of the central truss, a cross truss perpendicular to the central truss and mounted at an end of the central truss opposite the collector subsystem, and a reflector subsystem mounted on the cross truss. The collector subsystem includes a truncated trapezoid-shaped housing with a front side facing the reflector subsystem, the front side including a glassed-in opening fronting a V-shaped core heat mechanism enclosed within the housing interior that captures reflected photon energy from the reflector subsystem which heats a fluent medium within the V-shaped core heat mechanism for output to an external source for thermal power operations. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120192858 | DEVICE FOR CONCENTRATING SOLAR RADIATION | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120199115 | Solar Collector Frame - An apparatus comprising a number of platforms and a number of beams. The number of platforms has a first side and a second side. Each platform in the number of platforms is comprised of a number of devices. The number of beams is connected to the second side of the number of platforms at a plurality of connection points. The plurality of connection points is configured such that an orientation of the number of platforms remains substantially unchanged in response to a load on the number of platforms. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120211000 | Systems and Methods for Solar Energy Management - An apparatus includes a support member having a proximal end securable to a substantially fixed surface and a distal end opposite the proximal end; a solar energy member mounted to the support member at a location between the proximal and distal ends of the support member, where the solar energy member includes a first portion and a second portion arranged such that the support member extends substantially vertically between the two portions and the two portions are rotatable about a first axis to adjust azimuth of the solar energy member and about a second axis to adjust elevation of the solar energy member; and a plurality of cables, where each cable includes a first end secured to the distal end of the support member and a second end secured to a substantially fixed position, where the cables are configured to resist a wind load acting on the apparatus. | 08-23-2012 |
| 20120234311 | MULTI-TUBE SOLAR THERMAL RECEIVER - Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected as heat are disclosed. Some systems include an elevated solar receiver comprising multiple tubes arranged lengthwise in the receiver in a side-by-side parallel configuration across a transverse dimension of the receiver. The receiver comprises an inlet section configured to receive a heat transfer fluid into the tubing arrangement and an outlet section configured to output heated heat transfer fluid from the tubing arrangement. The multiple tubes of the tubing arrangement define together a flowing circuit between the inlet section and the outlet section from the outer tube or tubes to the inner tube or tubes. The solar energy collector system further includes an instrumentation and control system for controlling the orientation of at least one orientable reflector to provide in operation a concentrated illuminated area comprising a peaked profile across the transverse dimension of the receiver. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120255540 | SUN TRACKING SOLAR CONCENTRATOR - A sun tracking solar concentrator includes a one or two-sided linear Fresnel lens imprinted on a rollable sheet that is curved to form as a cylindrical arc surface. A one sided lens has a first zero line or a center point that transmits sunlight through without any refraction. A two sided lens also has a second zero line that is perpendicular to the first zero line. The Fresnel lens may be spooled onto rollers at its two straight ends. The first zero line or the center point may be positioned along the cylindrical arc by rotating one or both of the rollers. This mechanism aimed at providing horizontal tracking of the sun as it moves from East to West. Vertical tracking is accomplished by a tiltable mount coupled to the two rollers. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120260906 | SOLAR HEATING DEVICE - An enhanced solar heating device comprising multiple arrays of lenses enclosed in a housing configured to receive solar rays and concentrate the rays into multiple hot spots located on the outer surface of a water conduit is disclosed. The solar ray collection system is supplemented by a reflector attachment used to increase the solar light fed into the device. The water conduit is configured with multiple sections to increase exposure to solar light and increased surface area for formation of hot focal points. | 10-18-2012 |
| 20120266865 | Solar Collecting System Using a Rock Mass - A solar collecting system is incorporated into a natural rock mass having an upright face with a substantially direct exposure to the sun, for example a south facing granite cliff. A solar passage is formed in the rock mass to extend between an opening in the upright face of the rock mass and an internal collection area within the rock mass. One or more converging elements, for example solar converging lenses, are aligned with the solar passage and arranged to focus solar rays from the sun onto a target within the collection area. The target is in communication with a surrounding portion of the rock mass so as to be arranged to transfer heat from the target to the surrounding portion of the rock mass. A heat transfer fluid conduit may further be arranged to communicate a heat transfer fluid between the rock mass and an auxiliary device. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120279486 | Heliostat for collecting sunlight and method of controlling the same | 11-08-2012 |
| 20120285440 | SOLAR LIGHT COLLECTING DEVICE AND SOLAR HEAT COLLECTING FACILITY - A solar light collecting device includes: a rectangular-shaped frame-like body | 11-15-2012 |
| 20120291766 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION APPARATUS - Solar energy concentrating apparatus having an array of lenses to receive and concentrate the solar radiation towards a plurality of stationary targets. The lenses are supported on a moveable structure to enable the lenses to move laterally in the east-west and north-south directions. Each lens of the array is also configured to rotate about an axis extending in the north-south direction. Drive means is coupled to a plurality of lateral and rotational movements mechanisms to orientate the lenses towards the target as the sun moves throughout the day and year. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20130008430 | SOLAR COLLECTION APPARATUS AND STEAM GENERATOR USING THE SAME - Disclosed are a solar collection apparatus and a steam generator including the same. The solar collection apparatus includes a housing having an open upper surface; a dual glass plate coupled with the upper surface of the housing and formed therein with a storage space for receiving and storing water, in which solar light is transmitted through the dual glass plate; a first mirror fixed to a lower surface of the housing to collect and reflect the solar light transmitted through the dual glass plate; a second mirror fixed in the housing to reflect the solar light reflected from the first mirror; and an optical fiber having a first end located in the housing to receive the solar light reflected from the second mirror and a second end connected to a place of use to transmit the solar light to the place of use. | 01-10-2013 |
| 20130047976 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An energy collecting module for assembling, together with a plurality of similar energy collecting module, a modular energy collecting system. The energy collecting module comprises a fluid channel having a lumen for conducting fluid from a first connectable opening to a second connectable opening and an energy collecting element mounted in front of the fluid channel for concentrating radiation along the fluid channel. | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130055999 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR ENERGY DEVICE - A concentrating solar energy device for use in buildings is configured to share structural elements with a building for cost savings. The device incorporates a shallow cylindrical trough mirror comprising mirrored sheets that are conformed to curved rafters, a receiver that is moveable within the cumulative area of focus of the cylindrical trough mirror, a secondary mirror integrated with the receiver that augments solar energy collection, and parallel linear tracking assemblies that move the receiver and that mount to a building's side walls. | 03-07-2013 |
| 20130092153 | Direct Solar Steam Generation - Solar energy generates steam in a “once-through” configuration without recirculation, with closely managed steam quality, to produce wet steam from high-contaminant feed water without scaling or fouling. Feed water is pressurized, preheated, and evaporated in a series of pipes exposed to concentrated solar energy to produce a water-steam mixture for direct distribution to an industrial process such as enhanced oil recovery or desalination. Water flow rates are managed based on measurements of solar energy and steam production to manage variations in the solar energy. Steam generator piping system uses continuous receiver pipe that is illuminated by segmented parabolic mirrors enabled to track the sun. Provisions for steam generator piping recurring maintenance are provided. Thermal energy from hot condensate and/or from low quality steam is recaptured and warms inlet water. | 04-18-2013 |
| 20130092154 | APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING A SECONDARY REFLECTOR ON A SOLAR COLLECTOR SYSTEM - A solar collector system is provided that comprises an absorber tube, a primary reflector, and a secondary reflector. In certain embodiments, the primary and secondary reflectors are positioned on opposing sides of the absorber tube, such that their respective focal points converge upon a longitudinal axis of the absorber tube. The secondary reflector may be configured with a substantially transparent surface facing away from the absorber tube, so as to permit passage of light beams there-through. Opposing surfaces of the secondary and primary reflectors, namely those facing substantially toward the absorber tube contain a reflective coating thereon to facilitate redirection of light beams toward the absorber tube. The solar collector system includes in certain embodiments a frame assembly, whereby the primary reflector, the secondary reflector, and the absorber tube are all configured to unitarily rotate about a common pivot axis defined by at least a portion of the frame assembly. | 04-18-2013 |
| 20130098354 | SOLAR COLLECTORS - An array of solar collectors includes dual axis reflectors for directing solar radiation to receivers at focal points of the reflectors. Solar radiation is used to heat a thermal energy storage material, which may be used to generate steam for use in power generation with the aid of a turbine. The dual axis reflectors may pivot about independent axes of rotation, thereby enabling use of the reflectors throughout the year. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130139805 | Solar Concentrator with Support System and Solar Tracking - The invention relates to a solar concentrator with a supporting and solar tracking system, which proposes a solar concentrator comprising one or several lenses and one or several collectors and at least two attachment structures ( | 06-06-2013 |
| 20130152914 | PANEL WITH LONGITUDINAL MIRRORS FOR A SOLAR POWER PLANT - A receiver for a solar power plant with mirrors ( | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130152915 | Bearing Assembly For A Solar Collector System - A solar collector system is provided including a bearing assembly comprising a plurality of wheels or rollers for rollingly engaging a large-diameter support element. Rotation of the large-diameter support element supports tracking of the position of the sun relative to the solar collector system. The bearing assembly may be pre-assembled to the large-diameter support element before the solar collector system leaves the factory, thereby facilitating assembly of the solar collector system in the field, even under adverse conditions. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130152916 | CROSS LINEAR TYPE SOLAR HEAT COLLECTING APPARATUS - It is to heighten the heat collecting efficiency of a linear type solar heat collecting apparatus. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130167832 | Thermal Solar Capacitor System - The present invention relates to a zero-emission renewable heating system utilizing a thermal energy capacitor system using solar power as its source of heat, and more particularly, to a solar thermal capacitor system using an solar concentrators and a molten salt cell with thermal storage capability. | 07-04-2013 |
| 20130180517 | Solar Energy Collecting Assembly - A solar collection device includes a solar energy collector assembly being received and supported by a base. The solar energy collector assembly includes: a plurality of lenses secured within an elongated holder. Positioned concentric to the axis of the holder is a cylindrical glass shroud through which a tube passes. A first end of the tube, which is preferably formed of a high thermally transmissive metal, receives a supply of water, which is heated within the evacuated glass shroud by sunlight passing through the lenses and being focused onto the tube. The solar collector assembly is rotatably mounted to the base and may be caused to rotate at a slow speed by a drive means, or may be rocked at a slow speed. The elongated holder may be cylindrical, or may have a polygonal cross-sectional shape, with lenses staggered along each side of the holder to increase collection capability. | 07-18-2013 |
| 20130220303 | CENTRAL RECEIVER SOLAR SYSTEM COMPRISING A HELIOSTAT FIELD - The aim of the invention is to build central receiver solar power plants in which the heliostat fields can be used more efficiently. To achieve said aim, a heliostat field consisting of a near field having a uniform reflector surface density ρ of more than 60% is preferably combined with a far field whose reflector surface density ρ decreases as the distance from the receiver increases. The invention also comprises central receiver solar power plants which consist exclusively of a near field having a uniform reflector surface density ρ of more than 60%. The high reflector surface density ρ in the near field and in areas of the far field is achieved by the use of heliostats having rectangular reflectors and a rigid horizontal axle suspension (FHA) or, alternatively, by heliostats having rectangular reflectors and a rigid quasipolar axle suspension (FQA). The heliostat field concentrates the solar radiation on a receiver whose target surface, aperture, thermal absorber or photovoltaic absorber has a normal vector which is directed downward to the heliostat field that extends below the receiver in the directions North, East, South and West. The receiver is mounted in a suspended manner to a support structure that extends over the heliostat field. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130220304 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR POWER WITH GLASSHOUSES - A protective transparent enclosure (such as a glasshouse or a greenhouse) encloses a concentrated solar power system. The concentrated solar power system includes one or more solar concentrators and one or more solar receivers. Thermal power is provided to an industrial process, electrical power is provided to an electrical distribution grid, or both. In some embodiments, the solar concentrators are parabolic trough concentrators with one or more lateral extensions. In some embodiments, the lateral extension is a unilateral extension of the primary parabolic trough shape. In some embodiments, the lateral extensions are movably connected to the primary portion. In some embodiments, the lateral extensions have a focal line separate from the focal line of the base portion. In some embodiments, the greenhouse is a Dutch Venlo style greenhouse. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130220305 | CONCENTRATING SOLAR POWER WITH GLASSHOUSES - A protective transparent enclosure (such as a glasshouse or a greenhouse) encloses a concentrated solar power system. The concentrated solar power system includes one or more solar concentrators and one or more solar receivers. Thermal power is provided to an industrial process, electrical power is provided to an electrical distribution grid, or both. In some embodiments, the solar concentrators are parabolic trough concentrators with one or more lateral extensions. In some embodiments, the lateral extension is a unilateral extension of the primary parabolic trough shape. In some embodiments, the lateral extensions are movably connected to the primary portion. In some embodiments, the lateral extensions have a focal line separate from the focal line of the base portion. In some embodiments, the greenhouse is a Dutch Venlo style greenhouse. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130263842 | Solar Collector - A solar concentrator for heating a fluid has an extended solar reflector with a plurality of reflective concave steps, each step having an apex offset vertically and horizontally from a reflector apex of the reflector. A conduit through which the fluid flows is positioned along a common focal line of each step, preferably on an underside of the conduit. A framework is fixed with the reflector and conduit and is adapted for holding the reflector and conduit in a fixed mutual relationship. In use, with the reflector positioned towards the sun, rays from the sun reflect from each step to concentrate along the focal line on the conduit to heat the fluid. | 10-10-2013 |
| 20130269680 | Tracking Solar Mirror System - A concentrating solar collector that includes a target, a plurality of mirror assemblies, and a master tracking assembly that controls the mirror assemblies is disclosed. The mirror assemblies are fixed at a plurality of distinct locations with respect to the target, each mirror assembly includes a moveable mirror and a tracking assembly. Each tracking assembly includes a target member, a sun member, and a tracking actuator. The target member is fixed relative to the target such that the target member points at the target. The sun member is moveable relative to the target such that when the sun member points to the sun, light from the sun is reflected onto the target. The master tracking assembly moves each of the sun members such that the sun members simultaneously point at the sun. The tracking actuators are mechanical devices that are coupled to the master tracking assembly by a mechanical linkage. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130298897 | SOLAR HEAT COLLECTING DEVICE - [Problem] To present a solar heat collecting device capable of enhancing the heat collecting efficiency by effectively utilizing the sunlight entering an area near the end part of the reflector at the opposite side of the direction of location of the sun. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130312734 | SOLAR HEAT COLLECTING PIPE - [Problem] To present a solar heat collecting pipe capable of enhancing the heat collecting efficiency by suppressing the dissipation of energy transmitted to the heat medium passing through the inside of an inner pipe. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130319401 | SUPPORT MECHANISM FOR THERMAL RECEIVERS IN THE SOLAR TROUGH SYSTEMS - A solar trough system of the invention comprises at least one trough-shaped reflector surface ( | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130319402 | Solar Tracking System - A solar tracking apparatus comprises an array frame assembly adapted to support at least one solar collecting product, rotation means to enable the array frame assembly to rotate to at least track the sun from east to west over a fixed primary axis of rotation, and adjustment means to enable the array frame assembly to be adjusted relative to the primary axis of rotation to allow for seasonal changes in the sun's elevation and changes in the sun's declination throughout each day. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20140000582 | VERY HIGH PRESSURE SAMPLE CAPTURE AND TRANSPORTATION VESSEL | 01-02-2014 |
| 20140026883 | SOLAR HEAT STORAGE AND HIGH TEMPERATURE GAS GENERATING SYSTEM WITH WORKING MEDIUM BEING FLOWING SAND - A solar heat storage and high temperature gas generating system comprises a sun-tracking light concentrating device ( | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140034042 | TROUGH SOLAR COLLECTOR MODULE - A concentrating solar collector module includes improvements in performance and assemblability. In one configuration, the module includes a reflector having a reflective front surface shaped to concentrate incoming solar radiation onto a focal line, first and second rails, one rail attached to each edge of the reflector, and a set of truss connectors attached to the rails. The truss connectors and rails may form ways that enable constrained sliding engagement of the truss connectors along the rails before attachment of the truss connectors to the rails. The module may also include a plurality of framing members connected to the truss connectors and forming a structural lattice that cooperates with the reflector to lend rigidity to the solar collector module. At least some of the framing members may be disposed in front of the front reflective surface. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140090637 | INTEGRATED TORQUE COUPLING AND MOUNT - A sun tracking solar energy collection system can include torque tubes formed with a plurality of rotatable shafts connected to each other in an end to end fashion. The ends of the shafts can be connected with coupling devices in the form of an integrated coupling flange and mounting devices. The coupling flange can include a mounting surface that extends generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the shaft. Additionally, the coupling flange can include a coupling face that extends generally perpendicular to the axis of rotation, so as to provide a mating face for an adjacent coupling flange to transmit torque from one shaft to another. The mounting flanges can be used to support devices such as solar energy collection devices including photovoltaic modules or other devices. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140150774 | SOLAR TRACKING APPARATUS AND FIELD ARRANGEMENTS THEREOF - A solar tracker assembly for mounting one or more solar tracking units, which can be adapted for use with various solar energy modules such as photovoltaic modules and heliostat mirrors, is provided. Each assembly comprises a frame of four sides connected at leg assemblies, each leg assembly being adapted for mounting a solar tracking unit. The frame may be configured as an oblique-angled, rhombus or diamond frame with a cross member extending between the closer-spaced leg assemblies. A set of frames may be arranged in the field with adjacent sides of adjacent frames being parallel, with spacing arms of predefined lengths interconnecting adjacent pairs of frames, to provide a desired hexagonal grid spacing. | 06-05-2014 |
| 20140174431 | TRACKER DRIVE SYSTEM AND SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION SYSTEM - A tracker drive system is provided for rotatably driving one or more objects, for example solar panels or other equipment. The system comprises a torque element mounted for rotation about a generally horizontal axis, wherein the torque element can support one or more objects for rotation therewith about the generally horizontal axis; a lever arm connected with the torque element, the lever arm being movable to rotate the torque element; a movable drive member that is drivable by a drive mechanism; and a dynamic coupler coupling the drive member with the lever arm such that the lever arm is drivable by the drive member to rotate the torque element. | 06-26-2014 |
| 20140182578 | SOLAR CONCENTRATORS, METHOD OF MANUFACTURING AND USES THEREOF - A solar concentrator comprising at least one rigid parabolic self-supporting solar collector comprising at least one parabolic reflector and at least one heat collector rigidly supported above a reflective surface of the parabolic reflector; and a positioning unit configured for positioning the solar collector into an operation position for reception of solar beams by the parabolic reflector, and into a rest position in which the reflective surface of said parabolic reflector and the heat collector are at least partly under cover of a back surface of the parabolic reflector. | 07-03-2014 |
| 20140216440 | TRACKER SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR SOLAR SENSOR - Tracker support system ( | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140238386 | RADIATION ABSORBING METAL PIPE - The invention relates to the field of solar energy usage and, particularly, to solar systems, which operate on the base of concentration of direct solar radiation. The invention proposes a radiation absorbing metal pipe intended for heating gaseous medium or gaseous-liquid mixture. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140251307 | Tilt-able planar reflectors to heat a solar smelter's thermal mass - A tilt-able-central-planar-reflector, a tilt-able-auxiliary-left-planar-reflector, and a tilt-able-auxiliary-right-planar-reflector are hingely attached to a solar-absorbing-thermal-mass. The sun's light is made horizontal to reflect to the interior wall of a reflecting-curved-overhang, capturing the sun's sunrise light and sun's sunset light, and to reflect to the interior wall of a reflecting-parabolic-half-shell capturing the sun's noon light, so as to redirect the sun's light to a solar-absorbing-thermal-mass. The net result provides heat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for utilization. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140251308 | System and Method for Collecting Solar Energy with a Stationary Thermal Storage Device - A novel portable solar energy system includes a solar concentrator, a thermal storage device, an azimuth adjustment system, an elevation system, and a heat exchanger, all mounted on a rotatable support frame. In a particular embodiment, the thermal storage device remains at a fixed vertical height and fixed tilt orientation when adjustments are made to the azimuth adjustment system and/or the elevation adjustment system. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20150083112 | HELIOSTAT DRIVE-STRUCTURE MECHANICAL INTERFACE - A mechanical interface between the drive and support structure of a heliostat assembly for use in concentrated solar power applications. The heliostat drive is mounted to the support structure by inserting a drive post into a structure post, the structure post having grooves for interfacing with bolts or other fasteners attached to the drive post. The structure post has a plurality of grooves to allow for multiple heliostat orientation options. The heliostat assembly further includes a capsule containing a drive motor controller and cable-mounting features, wherein the capsule is inserted into the drive post and has a cable-positioning feature to provide egress of power and communication connectors from the drive through at least one groove. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150096551 | Solar Thermal Lamps and Globes for Heating Water in a Water Tank - A solar thermal lamp used for heating water inside a tank. The thermal lamp includes a transparent glass bulb with a threaded male coupling for attaching to a female coupling in the tank. The lamp also includes a heat tube with an enlarged water heating condenser. The condenser is received inside the tank. The heat tube can include a copper coil, copper fins, a glass coil, a copper lamp, a glass lamp, and the like for receiving solar energy and conducting the heat to the heating condenser for heating the water inside the tank. Also, the invention can be in the form of a solar thermal globe. The solar globe is self-contained and includes a water tank. Another embodiment of the globe tracks with the daily movement of the sun and change with seasons. | 04-09-2015 |
| 20150096552 | LINEAR SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR SYSTEM AND SOLAR POWER GENERATOR SYSTEM - A linear solar energy collector system includes reflective lines arranged in parallel in a south-north direction, heliostats mounted on the reflective lines, respectively, each comprised of mirror segments to reflect solar radiation, a light receiving line set above the reflective lines in a east-west direction, a receiver mounted on the light receiving line, to receive light reflected from the heliostats and collect heat from the light, and an angular adjuster to adjust angles of the mirror segments individually to irradiate a same light receiving area on the receiver with the reflected light from east-west neighboring reflective lines and thereby adjust a concentration ratio. | 04-09-2015 |
| 20150107580 | BEARING ARRANGEMENT AND PARABOLIC TROUGH COLLECTOR - The invention relates to a bearing arrangement ( | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150308717 | Improved Element for Processing Solar Radiation, and a Sun Tracker and a Solar Farm Equipped with Such an Element - An element for processing solar radiation includes means for processing solar radiation forming a layer of the solar radiation processing element and includes a layer of radiation-emitting material, especially infrared radiation, covering the layer of the processing means. A sun tracker includes at least one processing element and a solar farm includes a series of sun trackers, each comprising a processing element. | 10-29-2015 |
| 20150345832 | STRUCTURE FOR A DISH-TYPE POINT-BASED SOLAR CONCENTRATION SYSTEM, AND CONCENTRATION SYSTEM INCLUDING SAID STRUCTURE - It is lighter and easier to assemble. It comprises a) an anchoring sub-structure ( | 12-03-2015 |
| 20160040910 | SUNLIGHT CONCENTRATING APPARATUS - A sunlight concentrating apparatus includes a plate-like reflecting part, with an upper reflection surface extending in an axial and a width direction, and a lower surface having a central linear region fixed to a main shaft part. A pair of bending mechanisms bend the reflection surface by moving opposite end portions in a central normal direction in accordance with a rotation of the main shaft part. The reflecting part includes a mirror plate and a support plate thereon. In the support plate, the ratio between the distance in the width direction from each end portion in the width direction and the second moment of area at this distance is constant between the end portion and the central linear region, allowing the reflection surface to be bent in an are shape. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160084529 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY FIXED TARGET SOLAR THERMAL CONCENTRATOR POWER PLANTS - A fixed target solar thermal tower design is provided that utilizes a low number of collector modules ( | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160102890 | Re-reflecting Paraboloid Dish Collector - The present invention relates to an improved solar energy concentrating system. The system comprises a dual axis sun tracking paraboloid dish collector on a polar mount, with a re-reflecting mirror in top of the paraboloid dish, which reflects the concentrated solar irradiation into an opening in the paraboloid dish into a light pipe and with a movable third mirror redirects the light into a second light pipe along the polar axis, which with a fourth fixed mirror, sends the concentrated solar irradiation into a third light pipe to the cavity receiver. The invention replaces the need of flexible connectors to accommodate the movement of the mirror, with a combination of mirrors and light pipes, transferring the solar irradiation to a cavity-receiver. Dual axis tracking systems can capture more solar energy, on a more constant basis throughout the day and the year, and by reflecting directly into the cavity-receiver, thermal losses are minimized. | 04-14-2016 |
| 20160195302 | OPTICAL PROXY FOR SENSING AND POINTING OF LIGHT SOURCES | 07-07-2016 |
| 20180023845 | PARABOLIC TROUGH COLLECTOR MODULE, PARABOLIC TROUGH COLLECTOR MODULE UNIT AND SOLAR THERMAL POWER STATION | 01-25-2018 |
