Systems and methods of generating energy from solar radiation

Abstract

A solar reflector assembly is provided for generating energy from solar radiation. The solar reflector assembly is configured to be deployed on a supporting body of liquid and to reflect solar radiation to a solar collector. A solar reflector assembly comprises an inflatable elongated tube having an upper portion formed at least partially of flexible material and a lower ballast portion formed at least partially of flexible material. A reflective sheet is coupled to a wall of the tube to reflect solar radiation. The elongated tube has an axis of rotation oriented generally parallel to a surface of a supporting body of liquid.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority to U.S. patent Application Ser. Nos. 61 / 231,081, filed Aug. 4, 2009, 61 / 233,667, filed Aug. 13, 2009, and 61 / 244,349, filed Sep. 21, 2009, each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE [0002] The present disclosure relates to solar energy systems. BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE [0003] There has been a long-standing need to provide energy generation from renewable sources. Various renewable energy sources have been pursued, such as solar energy; wind, geothermal, and biomass for biofuels as well as others. [0004] Solar radiation has long been a prime candidate for fulfilling this need. Various approaches have been taken to achieve energy generation from solar radiation. To that end, much focus has been directed to creating a low cost solar energy conversion system that functions with high efficiency and requires little maintenance. [0005] For example, solar panels...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The solar reflector assemblies offer a cost-effective solution for large-scale energy generation and biomass production by reducing manufacturing and operational costs, while maintaining efficiency in energy conversion and biomass growth, making them suitable for municipal and industrial applications.

Problems solved by technology

However, current solar panel technology has been ineffective for large-scale uses, such as electrical generation sufficient for municipal applications.

The costs associated with such large-scale usages have been prohibitive.

Current solar panels are relatively expensive and do not allow cost-effective energy storage.

Although such CSP systems are better than traditional flat-panel photovoltaic cells for large-scale applications, shortfalls exist.

For example, glass and metal reflector assemblies are expensive to manufacture, ship and install.

Further, current tracking devices used with CSP can be relatively expensive and complicated.

As a result, current approaches have yet to achieve significant market penetration because of cost issues.

However, such systems can be expensive and, in many instances, cost prohibitive.

Images