Reflector element for a solar heat reflector and the method for producing the same

Abstract

Reflector element (1) for a solar collector which comprises a not mechanically flexed monolithic glass pane (2) of heat treated glass which due to its enhanced resistance properties becomes self-supported without requiring the presence of any kind of frame member or device to maintain its shape at the normal utilization temperatures. The reflector element is substantially parabolic and can be provided with at least one bore (3) for a fixing element to fix the reflector element (1) to a supporting structure.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]The present invention relates to a reflector element for use in a solar heat reflector or the like, a solar heat reflector comprising at least one of those reflector elements, a solar heat reflecting installation comprising at least one those solar reflectors, and to a method of manufacturing the reflector element.DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART[0002]Technologically advanced societies have become increasingly dependent on energy. As populations and living standards rise, the demand for energy grows and this trend will continue in the future. Consequently, the capability of a nation to satisfy its energy need plays a crucial role in its economic output and in its inhabitants' quality of life. Fossil fuels are currently the most used energy resources. The dependence on these non-renewable exhaustible fuels raises environmental concerns and is a source of regional and global conflicts.[0003]As the need for energy grows and the reserves of fossil fuels are being depleted...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention provides a reflector element for a solar heat reflector that has optimal optical properties and improved mechanical properties compared to typical annealed glass reflectors. The reflector element is made of a single piece of heat-treated glass that does not require a frame member or other device to maintain its shape. The glass has been heat-treated to a point where it is flexible and can be bent into a curved shape without losing its shape. The reflector element also comprises a reflecting means, such as a reflecting coating or layer, to preserve its reflective behavior and increase its durability in aggressive environmental conditions. The reflector element is self-supported, meaning it does not require a frame member or other device to keep it in its working position. The glass pane has a thickness of equal or less than 5 mm and is made of monolithic glass. The reflector element has improved mechanical properties and can withstand high temperatures and wind loads in open air. The invention also provides a solar heat reflector comprising a plurality of reflector elements, each with its own distinct curved shape that reflects incident sun radiation to a focal receiver. The reflector elements are designed to be thermally stable, meaning they can withstand high temperatures and wind loads in open air. The invention also provides a method for manufacturing the reflector element and a method for installing it in a solar heat reflector."

Problems solved by technology

The dependence on these non-renewable exhaustible fuels raises environmental concerns and is a source of regional and global conflicts.

As the need for energy grows and the reserves of fossil fuels are being depleted, governments all over the world are facing the challenge of establishing initiatives to develop efficient renewable energy technologies for the use and production of energy obtained from natural sources such us wind, sunlight, tides, waves or geothermal heat.

A drawback of a parabolic reflector thus produced is that the hot-bending may cause some distortions which lead to optical deficiencies and sun energy reflection loss.

Other drawbacks are the low bent glass production rate achieved when using this manufacturing methodology and the low resistance of the glass panes to the wind loads and the accidental impacts against them.

The method set forth in said documents has some limitations and drawbacks, among which:The glass substrate must necessarily be sufficiently flexible to be cold-bent, said flexibility being usually provided by making a relatively thin glass substrate.As abovementioned, parabolic reflectors produced by this method need to be maintained in their bent shape by a frame member, otherwise they would recover their flat shape.

In that case a flexible glass substrate is included in a laminate with a metal ply and the laminate is subjected to flexing forces, causing its flexure within the elastic limit of the metal ply.

This method of chemical tempering is time-demanding, low manufacturing rated and very expensive.

However, this glass can become fragile when exposed to wind loads, impact of solids in the open air and when be provided with bores it cannot bear the necessary mounting or fixing stresses.

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