Tail end heat collecting pipe supporting structure for trough type heat collector

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of trough type solar thermal power generation, and discloses a tail end heat collecting pipe supporting structure for a trough type heat collector, which comprises a heat collecting pipe supporting structure, a heat collector rotating shaft extension shaft, a heat collecting pipe fixing frame and a fixing piece, the heat collecting pipe supporting structure adopts a plane truss structure, the bottom is rotatably arranged on the heat collector rotating shaft extension shaft, and the fixing piece is arranged on the heat collecting pipe fixing frame. The top of the heat collecting pipe is rotationally connected with the heat collecting pipe fixing frame which is connected with the heat collecting pipe extending pipe through a fixing piece. The three structural forms of the single-piece truss, the double-piece truss space frame and the single-piece truss with the connecting pipes are arranged, the heat dissipation loss is reduced by reducing the contact area, thermal expansion and cold contraction displacement is absorbed through axial movable connection, and machining errors are adjusted and compensated through gaps of the connecting pieces. Torque and bending moment transmitted to the heat collecting pipe by flexible connection can be greatly reduced, deformation and damage of the heat collecting pipe are avoided, meanwhile, the heat collector is compact in structure, the land utilization rate is increased, and the heat collector is suitable for various groove type heat collectors with large opening sizes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of parabolic trough solar thermal power generation technology, specifically relating to a support structure for the end collector tubes of a parabolic trough collector. Background Technology

[0002] Parabolic trough solar thermal power generation technology is one of the more mature commercially applied solar thermal power generation technologies. Its core principle is to reflect and concentrate sunlight onto the collector tubes through parabolic trough reflectors, heating the heat transfer medium inside the collector tubes, and then outputting electricity through power generation equipment such as steam turbines.

[0003] Currently, all commercial parabolic trough solar thermal power plants worldwide employ an operating strategy where the collector tubes and reflectors rotate synchronously. Compared to collectors where the collector tubes are fixed and the reflectors rotate independently, this synchronous rotation structure effectively reduces sunlight loss during transmission and achieves higher optical efficiency.

[0004] In the operating mode where the collector tube and reflector rotate synchronously, the collector tube needs to rotate to follow the changes in the sun's position. A flexible connection structure must be installed between the collector tube and the power plant's fixed pipeline to accommodate different rotation angles. Besides accommodating positional changes caused by the collector tube's rotation, the flexible connection structure typically also needs to accommodate length changes in the collector tube due to thermal expansion and contraction at different temperatures.

[0005] To address the issue of flexible connection of solar collector tubes, existing technologies have proposed various solutions. Abengo's 2017 US patent application (US20170045264A1) proposes a novel flexible connection scheme. This scheme employs a combination of wound tubes and flexible hoses to absorb positional changes of the solar collector tubes relative to the fixed pipe. Its structure is as follows: Figure 1 As shown. Figure 1 This is a diagram of the existing solar collector terminal hose connection scheme. Figure 1 The image showcases a flexible connection structure combining a spiral wound tube and a flexible hose, as proposed in Arbengo's patent. The connection between the spiral wound tube, the flexible hose, the heat collection tube, and the fixed pipe is clearly shown in the image. This structure absorbs changes in the position of the heat collection tube through the bending deformation of the spiral wound tube and the expansion and contraction of the flexible hose.

[0006] The patent also mentions two mainstream technical solutions currently used in the industry:

[0007] Option (a): Connect 2-3 spherical joints in series in the pipeline. Utilize the characteristic that the two ends of the spherical joints can produce angular deflection to absorb the overall positional changes between the heat collection tube and the fixed pipeline.

[0008] Option (b): A combination structure of metal flexible hose and flat rotary joint is adopted. The metal flexible hose is used to absorb the length change caused by thermal expansion and contraction of the heat collection tube, and the flat rotary joint is used to absorb the angle change caused by the rotation of the heat collection tube.

[0009] With the large-scale development of parabolic trough solar thermal power plants, the opening size of parabolic trough collectors has gradually increased in order to reduce the construction cost per unit area. Correspondingly, the size of the collector tubes has also increased, which leads to larger and larger sizes of the spherical joints and metal hoses used in the flexible connection structure, significantly increasing the overall weight of the flexible connection structure.

[0010] If a suitable support structure is not used to fix the end collector tube, the weight of the flexible connection structure itself and the inertial force generated during the rotation of the collector tube will be transferred to the collector tube. These forces will cause the collector tube to deform beyond its design specifications, resulting in high heat loss and, in severe cases, damage to the collector tube, leading to leakage of the heat transfer medium inside the collector tube. The deformation is as follows: Figure 2 As shown. Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the deformation of the collector tubes caused by insufficient end support strength in the existing solar collector. Figure 2 The image shows the bending deformation of the collector tube caused by the force of the flexible connection without a proper support structure. It can be seen from the image that there is obvious sagging deformation in the middle of the collector tube. This deformation will cause the stress on the tube wall to exceed the design limit, thus leading to damage.

[0011] German patent application DE102011089057A1 discloses a heat collector tube support structure, the structure of which is as follows: Figure 3 As shown. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a solar collector support structure in an existing application. The diagram illustrates the solar collector support structure proposed in German patent application DE102011089057A1, showing the overall configuration of the support structure and its connection to the solar collector. This structure uses an adjustable fixing mechanism to fine-tune the position of the solar collector, but its torsional and bending resistance is limited. This structure improves upon the currently mainstream support structure by incorporating an adjustable solar collector fixing mechanism, enabling precise adjustment of the solar collector's installation position.

[0012] In practical industry applications, some terminal collector tubes also employ a two-tube support structure, which can mitigate the impact of small flexible connections to some extent. However, neither the support structure proposed in German patent application DE102011089057A1 nor the dual-support structure used in the industry fundamentally addresses the issue of reducing the force exerted by flexible connections on the terminal collector tubes, and thus fails to meet the strength requirements of large-aperture collectors for the terminal collector tube support structure. Summary of the Invention

[0013] In view of this, the present invention provides a support structure for the end collector tube of a trough solar collector. This support structure can significantly reduce the torque and bending moment applied to the end collector tube by the flexible connection, avoid large deformation and damage to the collector tube, and at the same time make the solar collector structure compact and improve land utilization.

[0014] The purpose of this invention is to provide a support structure for the end collector tube of a trough solar collector, comprising: a collector tube support structure (1), a collector shaft extension shaft (5), a collector tube fixing frame (11), and a fixing plate (12); the collector tube support structure (1) is a planar truss structure, the bottom of which is rotatably mounted on the collector shaft extension shaft (5), and the chord (10) of the collector tube support structure (1) is a steel pipe with a large closed cross section; the top of the collector tube support structure (1) is rotatably connected to the collector tube fixing frame (11), and the collector tube fixing frame (11) is connected to the collector tube extension pipe (4) through the fixing plate (12), and the fixing plate (12) is welded to the collector tube extension pipe (4).

[0015] In this first embodiment, the collector tube support structure (1) is a planar truss structure. The bottom of the support structure is rotatably mounted on the collector rotating shaft extension shaft (5). The chord (10) is a closed-section steel pipe with a large cross-section. The top of the support structure is rotatably connected to the collector tube fixing frame. The collector tube fixing frame (11) and the collector tube extension pipe (4) are connected by fixing plates welded to the collector tube extension pipe. The planar truss structure has high structural strength and stiffness, and can effectively transmit and offset the force generated by the flexible connection.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the contact point between the heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) and the heat collection tube extension tube (4) is provided with a plurality of small-area protrusions, and the contact point between the fixing plate (12) and the heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) is also provided with a plurality of first small-area protrusions (111).

[0017] In this embodiment, multiple small-area protrusions are provided at the contact point between the heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) and the heat collection tube extension tube (4), and multiple small-area protrusions (111) are also provided on the fixing plate (12) on the heat collection tube extension tube (4). By reducing the contact area, the heat loss of the heat collection tube (3) to the outside through the heat collection tube support structure (1) is reduced.

[0018] As a preferred embodiment, the heat collection tube support structure (1) includes two planar truss structures of the same size and parallel vertically. The bottom of the two planar truss structures is independently supported on the extension shaft (5) of the heat collector rotating shaft. The top of the two planar truss structures is rotatably connected to two heat collection tube fixing frames (11). The two heat collection tube fixing frames (11) are connected to two fixing plates (12).

[0019] This second embodiment provides a double-truss structure. The collector tube support structure (1) includes two parallel, vertical planar truss structures of the same size. The bottom of the two planar truss structures is independently supported on the collector rotation shaft extension shaft (5), and the tops are rotatably connected to two collector tube fixing frames (11). The two collector tube fixing frames (11) are respectively connected to two fixing plates (12) welded to the collector tube extension pipe (4). The double-truss structure can further improve the bending and torsional resistance of the support structure.

[0020] As a preferred embodiment, multiple connecting rods (18) are provided on the two planar truss structures near the heat collection tube (3) and in the middle of the truss; the two ends of the connecting rods (18) are respectively rotatably connected to the two planar truss structures, so that the two planar truss structures form a spatial frame structure.

[0021] In this embodiment, multiple connecting rods (18) are provided on two parallel planar truss structures near the collector tubes and in the middle of the trusses. The two ends of the connecting rods (18) are rotatably connected to the two planar trusses, so that the two planar trusses form a spatial frame structure. This spatial frame structure can rotate around the support position of the collector's pivot (5), and has a stronger resistance to the bending moment applied to the top of the spatial frame by the flexible connection.

[0022] Preferably, the heat collection tube support structure (1) is a single-piece planar truss structure. The top of the heat collection tube support structure (1) is provided with a top rotating shaft (102), and a connecting pipe (14) is installed on the top rotating shaft (102). Heat collection tube fixing brackets (11) are respectively installed at both ends of the connecting pipe (14), and the two heat collection tube fixing brackets (11) are respectively connected to the heat collection tube extension pipe (4) through fixing plates (12).

[0023] In this third embodiment, a single-piece truss structure with connecting pipes is also provided. The heat collection pipe support structure (1) is a single planar truss structure. The bottom of the support structure is rotatably mounted on the heat collector shaft extension shaft (5). The top of the support structure is provided with a top shaft (102). A connecting pipe (14) is installed on the top shaft (102). Heat collection pipe fixing brackets (11) are installed at both ends of the connecting pipe (14). The heat collection pipe fixing brackets (11) and the heat collection pipe extension pipe (4) are connected by fixing plates (12). This structure has both structural strength and compactness.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the heat collection tube fixing brackets (11) at both ends of the connecting pipe (14) is movable along the axial direction of the heat collection tube extension pipe (4) through the connection between the heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) and the corresponding fixing plate (12).

[0025] In this embodiment, among the heat collection tube fixing brackets (11) installed at both ends of the connecting pipe, at least one heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) has a fixing piece (12) for connection with the heat collection tube extension tube (4). The corresponding connection can move in the axial direction to absorb the relative displacement of the heat collection tube between the two heat collection tube extension tube fixing pieces caused by thermal expansion and contraction at different temperatures, thereby reducing the thermal stress that the heat collection tube may generate.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the top pivot (102) is connected to the chord (10) of the planar truss structure via a connecting piece (17); the connecting piece (17) is provided with an elongated hole, and the relative position between the connecting piece (17) and the chord (10) is adjusted through the gap between the holes.

[0027] In this embodiment, the top pivot of the top of the planar truss structure is connected to the chord (10) of the planar truss through a connecting piece (17). The connecting piece (17) is provided with an elongated hole. The relative position between the connecting piece (17) and the planar truss can be adjusted through the gap of the hole to compensate for the processing error and ensure the accuracy of the installation position of the heat collection tube.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, a bottom shaft (101) is provided at the top of the end of the collector shaft extension shaft (5) away from the collector, and the bottom of the collector tube support structure (1) is rotatably connected to the collector shaft extension shaft (5) through the bottom shaft (101).

[0029] As a preferred embodiment, the heat collection tube fixing frame (11) is provided with a fixing frame buckle (13), and the fixing frame buckle (13) and the heat collection tube fixing frame (11) are fastened together by bolts to clamp the heat collection tube extension tube (4); a second small area protrusion (131) is provided at the contact point between the fixing frame buckle (13) and the heat collection tube extension tube (4).

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the chord (10) is made of a square tube of 80mm×80mmx3mm, and the welding part (121) between the fixing plate (12) and the heat collection tube extension tube (4) is an intermittent welding structure.

[0031] The support structure of the present invention has the following significant advantages over the prior art:

[0032] 1. Significantly reduces the torque and bending moment transmitted to the collector tube by the flexible connection, avoiding large deformation and damage to the collector tube, and improving the service life and operational stability of the collector tube.

[0033] 2. The solar collector support structure proposed in this invention has a short length, and the solar collector with this support structure is compact in the length direction, which can effectively reduce the footprint of the solar collector, improve land utilization, and reduce the construction cost of the power plant. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a diagram of a solar collector terminal hose connection scheme based on existing technology.

[0035] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the deformation of the collector tubes due to insufficient end support strength in existing collector technologies.

[0036] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the heat collection tube support structure based on existing technology.

[0037] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing partial structural details according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure according to the third preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 8 This is a partial schematic diagram of the structure according to the third preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram comparing the degree of reduction in the force exerted by the structure of the present invention on the flexible connection.

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1-Collector tube support structure, 2-Existing collector support structure, 3-Collector tube, 4-Collector tube extension tube, 5-Collector rotating shaft extension shaft, 10-Chord, 11-Collector tube fixing bracket, 12-Fixing plate, 13-Fixing bracket buckle, 14-Connecting pipe, 17-Connecting plate, 18-Connecting rod, 101-Bottom rotating shaft, 102-Top rotating shaft, 111-First small area protrusion, 112-Bolt, 121-Welded part, 131-Second small area protrusion, 181-Rotating shaft. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0045] The purpose of this invention is to provide a support structure for the end collector tube of a trough solar collector, comprising: a collector tube support structure (1), a collector shaft extension shaft (5), a collector tube fixing frame (11), and a fixing plate (12); the collector tube support structure (1) is a planar truss structure, the bottom of which is rotatably mounted on the collector shaft extension shaft (5), and the chord (10) of the collector tube support structure (1) is a steel pipe with a large closed cross section; the top of the collector tube support structure (1) is rotatably connected to the collector tube fixing frame (11), and the collector tube fixing frame (11) is connected to the collector tube extension pipe (4) through the fixing plate (12), and the fixing plate (12) is welded to the collector tube extension pipe (4).

[0046] In this first embodiment, the collector tube support structure (1) is a planar truss structure. The bottom of the support structure is rotatably mounted on the collector rotating shaft extension shaft (5). The chord (10) is a closed steel pipe with a large cross-section. The top of the support structure is rotatably connected to the collector tube fixing frame. The collector tube fixing frame (11) and the collector tube extension pipe (4) are connected by fixing plates welded to the collector tube extension pipe. The planar truss structure has high structural strength and stiffness, and can effectively transmit and offset the force generated by the flexible connection.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the contact point between the heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) and the heat collection tube extension tube (4) is provided with a plurality of small-area protrusions, and the contact point between the fixing plate (12) and the heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) is also provided with a plurality of first small-area protrusions (111).

[0048] In this embodiment, multiple small-area protrusions are provided at the contact point between the heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) and the heat collection tube extension tube (4), and multiple small-area protrusions (111) are also provided on the fixing plate (12) on the heat collection tube extension tube (4). By reducing the contact area, the heat loss of the heat collection tube (3) to the outside through the heat collection tube support structure (1) is reduced.

[0049] As a preferred embodiment, the heat collection tube support structure (1) includes two planar truss structures of the same size and parallel vertically. The bottom of the two planar truss structures is independently supported on the extension shaft (5) of the heat collector rotating shaft. The top of the two planar truss structures is rotatably connected to two heat collection tube fixing frames (11). The two heat collection tube fixing frames (11) are connected to two fixing plates (12).

[0050] This second embodiment provides a double-truss structure. The collector tube support structure (1) includes two parallel, vertical planar truss structures of the same size. The bottom of the two planar truss structures is independently supported on the collector rotation shaft extension shaft (5), and the tops are rotatably connected to two collector tube fixing frames (11). The two collector tube fixing frames (11) are respectively connected to two fixing plates (12) welded to the collector tube extension pipe (4). The double-truss structure can further improve the torsional resistance of the support structure.

[0051] As a preferred embodiment, multiple connecting rods (18) are provided on the two planar truss structures near the heat collection tube (3) and in the middle of the truss; the two ends of the connecting rods (18) are respectively rotatably connected to the two planar truss structures, so that the two planar truss structures form a spatial frame structure.

[0052] In this embodiment, multiple connecting rods (18) are provided on two parallel planar truss structures near the collector tubes and in the middle of the trusses. The two ends of the connecting rods (18) are rotatably connected to the two planar trusses, so that the two planar trusses form a spatial frame structure. This spatial frame structure can rotate around the support position of the collector's pivot (5), and has a stronger resistance to the bending moment applied to the top of the spatial frame by the flexible connection.

[0053] Preferably, the heat collection tube support structure (1) is a single-piece planar truss structure. The top of the heat collection tube support structure (1) is provided with a top rotating shaft (102), and a connecting pipe (14) is installed on the top rotating shaft (102). Heat collection tube fixing brackets (11) are respectively installed at both ends of the connecting pipe (14), and the two heat collection tube fixing brackets (11) are respectively connected to the heat collection tube extension pipe (4) through fixing plates (12).

[0054] In this third embodiment, a single-piece truss structure with connecting pipes is also provided. The heat collection pipe support structure (1) is a single planar truss structure. The bottom of the support structure is rotatably mounted on the heat collector shaft extension shaft (5). The top of the support structure is provided with a top shaft (102). A connecting pipe (14) is installed on the top shaft (102). Heat collection pipe fixing brackets (11) are installed at both ends of the connecting pipe (14). The heat collection pipe fixing brackets (11) and the heat collection pipe extension pipe (4) are connected by fixing plates (12). This structure has both structural strength and compactness.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the heat collection tube fixing brackets (11) at both ends of the connecting pipe (14) is movable along the axial direction of the heat collection tube extension pipe (4) through the connection between the heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) and the corresponding fixing plate (12).

[0056] In this embodiment, among the heat collection tube fixing brackets (11) installed at both ends of the connecting pipe, at least one heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) has a fixing piece (12) for connection with the heat collection tube extension tube (4). The corresponding connection can move in the axial direction to absorb the relative displacement of the heat collection tube between the two heat collection tube extension tube fixing pieces caused by thermal expansion and contraction at different temperatures, thereby reducing the thermal stress that the heat collection tube may generate.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the top pivot (102) is connected to the chord (10) of the planar truss structure via a connecting piece (17); the connecting piece (17) is provided with an elongated hole, and the relative position between the connecting piece (17) and the chord (10) is adjusted through the gap between the holes.

[0058] In this embodiment, the top pivot of the top of the planar truss structure is connected to the chord (10) of the planar truss through a connecting piece (17). The connecting piece (17) is provided with an elongated hole. The relative position between the connecting piece (17) and the planar truss can be adjusted through the gap of the hole to compensate for the processing error and ensure the accuracy of the installation position of the heat collection tube.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, a bottom shaft (101) is provided at the top of the end of the collector shaft extension shaft (5) away from the collector, and the bottom of the collector tube support structure (1) is rotatably connected to the collector shaft extension shaft (5) through the bottom shaft (101).

[0060] As a preferred embodiment, the heat collection tube fixing frame (11) is provided with a fixing frame buckle (13), and the fixing frame buckle (13) and the heat collection tube fixing frame (11) are fastened together by bolts to clamp the heat collection tube extension tube (4); a second small area protrusion (131) is provided at the contact point between the fixing frame buckle (13) and the heat collection tube extension tube (4).

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the chord (10) is made of a square tube of 80mm×80mmx3mm, and the welding part (121) between the fixing plate (12) and the heat collection tube extension tube (4) is an intermittent welding structure.

[0062] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first embodiment of the present invention. The diagram shows the overall structure of the single-piece planar truss support structure of the present invention, which includes a collector tube support structure (1), an existing collector support structure (2), a collector tube (3), a collector tube extension tube (4), a collector rotating shaft extension shaft (5), a chord (10), a collector tube fixing frame (11), a fixing plate (12), a bottom rotating shaft (101), and a top rotating shaft (102). The collector rotating shaft extension shaft (5) is connected to the existing collector rotating shaft. The bottom of the collector tube support structure (1) is rotatably connected to the collector rotating shaft extension shaft (5) through the bottom rotating shaft (101), and the top is rotatably connected to the collector tube fixing frame (11) through the top rotating shaft (102).

[0063] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A detailed view of the schematic diagram. This enlarged view shows the connection details between the collector tube mounting bracket (11), the mounting bracket clip (13), the fixing plate (12), and the collector tube extension pipe (4). The view clearly shows the bolted connection between the collector tube mounting bracket (11) and the mounting bracket clip (13), as well as the welded joint (121) between the fixing plate (12) and the collector tube extension pipe (4). The view also shows the small protrusions (111, 131) on the collector tube mounting bracket (11), the mounting bracket clip (13), and the fixing plate (12).

[0064] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the present invention. The diagram shows the spatial frame support structure composed of two planar trusses of the present invention, including two parallel and upright heat collection tube support structures (1), a connecting rod (18), and a rotating shaft (181). The bottom of the two planar trusses is connected to the extension shaft (5) of the heat collector rotating shaft, and the top is connected to the heat collection tube fixing frame (11). The connecting rod (18) is rotatably connected to the two planar trusses through the rotating shaft (181) to form a spatial frame structure.

[0065] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the present invention. The figure shows the single-piece truss support structure with connecting pipe of the present invention, including a collector tube support structure (1), a connecting pipe (14), a top rotating shaft (102), and a collector rotating shaft extension shaft (5). The top of the collector tube support structure (1) is connected to the connecting pipe (14) through the top rotating shaft (102), and collector tube fixing brackets (11) are respectively installed at both ends of the connecting pipe (14).

[0066] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A partial schematic diagram. This diagram is... Figure 7 The top view of the structure shown illustrates the connection relationship between the connecting pipe (14), the collector tube fixing bracket (11), the fixing plate (12), the collector tube extension pipe (4), the connecting plate (17), and the bolt (112). The figure clearly shows the axially movable connection structure between the right-side collector tube fixing bracket (11) and the fixing plate (12), as well as the elongated hole structure on the connecting plate (17).

[0067] Figure 9 This is a comparison chart showing the degree of reduction in the force exerted on the flexible connection by the structure of the present invention. The chart, presented as a bar graph, illustrates the reduction in bending moment and torque generated by the flexible connection by the three embodiments of the present invention, visually demonstrating the support effect of different structural forms.

[0068] To better understand the technical solution of the present invention, the technical solution of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0069] The core design concept of this invention is to use a high-strength planar truss support structure to transfer the torque and bending moment applied to the collector tube by the flexible connection to the collector shaft extension. The high strength of the collector shaft extension is then used to counteract these forces, preventing them from being transmitted to the collector tube body and causing deformation and damage. Simultaneously, by optimizing the connection between the support structure and the collector tube, heat loss is reduced, and processing errors and thermal expansion and contraction displacements are compensated for.

[0070] Application Example 1: Single-piece planar truss support structure

[0071] This embodiment adopts Figure 4 and Figure 5 The specific parameters of the single-piece planar truss support structure shown are as follows:

[0072] 1. The chord (10) of the heat collection tube support structure (1) is made of 80mm×80mm square tube with a wall thickness of 3mm and is made of Q345B high-strength alloy steel. The web members of the planar truss are made of 40mm×40mm square tube with a wall thickness of 1mm and are also made of Q345B high-strength alloy steel.

[0073] 2. The diameter of the collector shaft extension shaft (5) is 200mm, the length is 500mm, and the material is 45 steel. One end of it is connected to the main shaft of the collector through a flange, and the other end is provided with a bottom shaft (101) at the top. The diameter of the bottom shaft (101) is 20mm, and the rotation angle range is -90° to +90°.

[0074] 3. The top of the heat collection tube support structure (1) is provided with a top rotating shaft (102). The diameter of the top rotating shaft (102) is 16mm, and the rotation angle range is -30° to +30°. The heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) is rotatably connected to the top rotating shaft (102).

[0075] 4. The collector tube fixing bracket (11) and the fixing bracket buckle (13) are made of Q345B high-strength alloy steel. They are fastened together by two M10 bolts and clamp the collector tube extension tube (4). At the contact point between the collector tube fixing bracket (11) and the fixing bracket buckle (13) and the collector tube extension tube (4), there are 6 small protrusions (111, 131) with a height of 5mm and an area of ​​10mm×10mm. They are evenly distributed on the contact surface.

[0076] 5. The fixing plate (12) is made of stainless steel with a thickness of 4mm. Its welding part (121) with the heat collection tube extension pipe (4) is intermittently welded. The length of the welding section is 15mm and the interval is 20mm. The length of the welding section accounts for 30% of the total length of the intersection line between the fixing plate and the extension pipe (4). The fixing plate (12) and the heat collection tube fixing frame (11) are positioned and connected by two M12 bolts.

[0077] The installation and operation process of this embodiment is as follows:

[0078] 1. First, fix one end of the collector shaft extension shaft (5) to the main shaft of the collector through a flange to ensure that the collector shaft extension shaft (5) rotates coaxially with the main shaft.

[0079] 2. Install the bottom of the collector tube support structure (1) on the top of the collector shaft extension shaft (5) via the bottom rotating shaft (101), adjust the lubrication state of the bottom rotating shaft (101) to ensure that the collector tube support structure (1) can rotate flexibly.

[0080] 3. Weld a fixing plate (12) onto the heat collector tube extension tube (4). During the welding process, use an intermittent welding method to avoid excessive welding temperature that could cause deformation of the heat collector tube extension tube (4).

[0081] 4. Secure the collector tube fixing bracket (11) and the fixing bracket buckle (13) to the collector tube extension tube (4) with bolts, so that the small area protrusions (111, 131) on the fixing bracket are in close contact with the collector tube extension tube (4), and at the same time connect the collector tube fixing bracket (11) to the top rotating shaft (102) at the top of the collector tube support structure (1).

[0082] 5. During the process of the solar collector tracking the sun, the collector tube (3) and the reflector rotate synchronously. The torque generated by the flexible connection structure is transmitted to the fixed plate (12) through the collector tube extension tube (4), and then to the collector tube support structure (1) through the collector tube fixing frame (11). Since the collector tube support structure (1) is a high-strength planar truss structure, the torque will be transmitted to the collector shaft extension shaft (5) through the bottom rotating shaft (101), and will be offset by the strength of the collector shaft extension shaft (5), thus avoiding the torque being transmitted to the collector tube (3) body.

[0083] 6. During the operation of the heat collection tube (3), since the contact area between the heat collection tube fixing bracket (11), fixing bracket buckle (13) and fixing plate (12) and the heat collection tube extension tube (4) is small, the heat dissipation of heat inside the heat collection tube to the outside through the support structure can be effectively reduced, thus reducing heat loss.

[0084] Application Example 2: Double-Piece Planar Truss Space Frame Support Structure

[0085] This embodiment adopts Figure 6 The specific parameters of the double-planar truss space frame support structure shown are as follows:

[0086] 1. The heat collection tube support structure (1) adopts two planar truss structures of the same size. The chord (10) of a single truss is made of 80mm×80mm square tube with a wall thickness of 3mm, and the web members are made of 40mm×40mm square tube with a wall thickness of 1mm. The material is Q345B high-strength alloy steel. The distance between the two trusses is 300mm.

[0087] 2. The collector rotating shaft extension shaft (5) uses two No. 45 steel shafts with a diameter of 200mm and a length of 500mm. The two shafts are set in parallel and the spacing is the same as the spacing between the two trusses.

[0088] 3. The connecting rod (18) is a 45mm×45mm square tube with a wall thickness of 2mm. The material is Q345B high-strength alloy steel. There are 4 connecting rods (18), two of which are located near the heat collection tube (3) and the other two are located in the middle of the truss. The two ends of the connecting rod (18) are rotatably connected to the two planar truss structures through a pivot (181). The diameter of the pivot (181) is 16mm.

[0089] 4. The collector tube fixing bracket (11) adopts two independent Q345B fixing brackets, which are respectively connected to the top rotating shaft of the two trusses. The parameters of the small area protrusion on the fixing bracket are the same as those in Example 1.

[0090] 5. The fixing plate (12) is made of two stainless steel fixing plates, which are welded to both sides of the heat collection tube extension tube (4) and connected to the two heat collection tube fixing brackets (11).

[0091] The installation and operation process of this application embodiment is basically the same as that of application embodiment 1, except that:

[0092] 1. During installation, the two collector shaft extension shafts (5) need to be fixed parallel to the collector main shaft, and then the two planar truss structures are installed on the two extension shafts respectively.

[0093] 2. Install connecting rods (18) between the two trusses to form a spatial frame structure. Compared with a single truss structure, this spatial frame structure has higher torsional and bending strength and can withstand greater flexible connection forces.

[0094] 3. When the weight of the flexible connection is large and the collector opening is in the horizontal direction, the collector tube extension tube (4) will be subjected to a large bending moment. At this time, the space frame structure can effectively resist the bending moment through the synergistic effect of the two trusses and the connecting rod (18), and avoid the collector tube (3) from drooping deformation.

[0095] Application Example 3: Single-piece truss support structure with connecting pipe

[0096] This embodiment adopts Figure 7 and Figure 8 The specific parameters of the single-piece truss support structure with connecting pipes shown are as follows:

[0097] 1. The chord rod (10) of the heat collection tube support structure (1) is made of 85mm×85mm square tube with a wall thickness of 2.5mm, and the web rod is made of 42mm×42mm square tube with a wall thickness of 1.5mm. The material is Q345B high-strength alloy steel.

[0098] 2. The diameter of the collector rotating shaft extension shaft (5) is 200mm, the length is 550mm, and the material is No. 45 steel.

[0099] 3. The top of the heat collection tube support structure (1) has a top pivot (102) with a diameter of 16mm. The connecting pipe (14) is a 60mm×60mm square tube with a length of 300mm. The material is Q345B high-strength alloy steel. The connecting pipe (14) is connected to the truss structure through the top pivot (102).

[0100] 4. A collector tube fixing bracket (11) is installed at both ends of the connecting pipe (14). The left collector tube fixing bracket (11) is fixedly connected to the fixing plate (12), and the right collector tube fixing bracket (11) is axially movable to the fixing plate (12). The right fixing bracket is provided with a long bolt hole with a length of 30mm and a width of 12mm. The fixing bracket can move along the length of the bolt hole, with a movement range of 0~25mm.

[0101] 5. The connecting piece (17) is made of stainless steel with a thickness of 5mm. The connecting piece has a long hole with a length of 20mm and a width of 10mm. The connecting piece (17) is connected to the chord rod (10) by bolts. By adjusting the position of the connecting piece (17) in the long hole, the height of the heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) can be finely adjusted. The fine adjustment range is 0~15mm.

[0102] The difference between the installation and operation process of this application embodiment and application embodiment 1 is as follows:

[0103] 1. During installation, the connecting pipe (14) needs to be connected to the truss structure through the top pivot (102), and then the heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) is installed at both ends of the connecting pipe (14).

[0104] 2. When the right-side heat collector tube fixing bracket (11) is connected to the fixing plate (12), it is necessary to ensure that the fixing bracket can move flexibly in the axial direction to absorb the relative displacement caused by the thermal expansion and contraction of the heat collector tube (3).

[0105] 3. By adjusting the position of the connecting piece (17), the errors generated during the processing of the truss structure and the fixing frame are compensated, ensuring that the installation position of the heat collection tube (3) is accurate and avoiding uneven stress on the heat collection tube due to processing errors.

[0106] Comparison of structural performance of three embodiments

[0107] To visually demonstrate the performance advantages of the three embodiments of the present invention, experiments were conducted to test the degree of reduction of the flexible connection force of the three structures, and the results were compared with existing support structures. Table 1 below shows the performance comparison between the embodiments of the present invention and existing structures.

[0108] Table 1

[0109] Structure type Bending moment reduction Torque reduction Heat loss reduction rate Solar collector length compression ratio Existing support structure 5% 8% 0% 0% Example 1: Single-piece truss structure 30% 40% 1.5% 1% Example 2: Double-truss space frame structure 60% 80% 0.75% 0.5% Example 3: Single-piece truss structure with connecting pipe 50% 50% 1% 0.8%

[0110] Table 1 Data Explanation:

[0111] 1. The reduction in bending moment and torque refers to the percentage decrease in bending moment and torque transmitted to the heat collection tube by the flexible connection after adopting the structure of the present invention, compared with the existing support structure. This data is obtained by testing with torque sensor and bending moment sensor under the same experimental conditions.

[0112] 2. The heat loss reduction rate refers to the proportion by which the heat loss of the heat collection tube is reduced after adopting the structure of the present invention compared with the existing support structure. This data is obtained by measuring the heat dissipation of the heat collection tube at the same temperature using a calorimeter.

[0113] 3. The collector length compression ratio refers to the dimensional compression ratio of the collector in the length direction after adopting the structure of the present invention compared with the existing support structure. This data is obtained by measuring the overall length of the collector.

[0114] As can be seen from the data in Table 1, all three embodiments of the present invention can significantly reduce the bending moment and torque transmitted to the collector tube by the flexible connection, while effectively reducing heat loss and compressing the length of the collector. Among them, the double-truss space frame structure of Embodiment 2 has the most significant effect on reducing bending moment and torque, with a bending moment reduction of 60% and a torque reduction of 80%, making it suitable for large-aperture collectors with heavy flexible connections; the single-truss structure with connecting pipes in Embodiment 3 has the highest collector length compression rate, reaching 20%, making it suitable for power plants with high requirements for collector floor space; the single-truss structure of Embodiment 1 combines performance and economy, making it suitable for collectors with small to medium-sized openings.

[0115] The working principle of the end collector tube support structure for a trough solar collector of the present invention includes:

[0116] 1. Principle of Force Transmission and Cancellation: As the collector tube rotates with the reflector, the flexible connection structure generates torque and bending moment. These forces are first transmitted to the collector tube extension tube, and then through the fixing plate to the collector tube fixing frame. Since the collector tube fixing frame is rotatably connected to the top of the collector tube support structure, the forces are transmitted to the high-strength planar truss support structure. The bottom of the planar truss support structure is rotatably connected to the collector rotation shaft extension shaft. The collector rotation shaft extension shaft has high strength and rigidity, which can cancel out the transmitted torque and bending moment, preventing the forces from continuing to be transmitted to the collector tube body, thereby preventing the collector tube from deforming and breaking.

[0117] 2. Principle of Reduced Heat Loss: Small protrusions are provided at the contact points between the collector tube mounting bracket, the bracket clips, and the collector tube extension tube. Small protrusions are also provided at the contact points between the fixing plate and the collector tube mounting bracket. This structural design significantly reduces the contact area between the supporting structure and the collector tube extension tube, reducing heat transfer from the collector tube to the supporting structure via heat conduction, thereby reducing heat loss from the collector tube. Simultaneously, the intermittent welding method between the fixing plate and the collector tube extension tube further reduces the heat conduction area of ​​the welded section, enhancing the insulation effect.

[0118] 3. Thermal Expansion and Contraction Displacement Absorption Principle: In the structure of Example 3, one of the collector tube fixing frames at both ends of the connecting pipe is axially movable to the fixing plate. When the collector tube expands and contracts due to temperature changes during operation, the length of the collector tube changes, which in turn causes a change in the relative position between the two fixing plates. The axially movable fixing frame can move along the axial direction of the collector tube, absorbing this relative displacement, avoiding thermal stress caused by the inability to release the displacement, and protecting the collector tube from damage.

[0119] 4. Processing Error Compensation Principle: In the structure of Example 3, the top rotating shaft is connected to the chord of the planar truss via a connecting plate, which has elongated holes. During installation, if there are processing errors in the truss structure or the fixing frame, resulting in inaccurate installation positions of the heat collector tubes, the relative position of the connecting plate within the elongated holes can be adjusted to fine-tune the height of the heat collector tube fixing frame, thereby compensating for the processing errors, ensuring that the installation position of the heat collector tubes meets the design requirements, and guaranteeing uniform stress on the heat collector tubes.

[0120] Scope of application of this invention:

[0121] The end-capsule support structure for trough solar collectors of the present invention is applicable to trough solar collectors in various types of trough solar thermal power plants, especially trough solar collectors with large opening sizes. The three embodiments of the present invention can be selected and combined according to the needs of actual application scenarios, for example:

[0122] 1. In solar collectors with large opening sizes and heavy flexible connections, the double-truss space frame structure of Example 2 can be used to obtain the best anti-torsion and anti-bending effects.

[0123] 2. In power plants where the space required for the solar collector is high, the single-piece truss structure with connecting pipes in Example 3 can be used to achieve maximum compression of the solar collector length.

[0124] 3. In power plants with small to medium opening sizes and high cost control requirements, the single-piece truss structure of Example 1 can be used to balance performance and economy.

[0125] The support structure of this invention is easy to install, has good compatibility with existing solar collectors, does not require major modifications to the structure of existing solar collectors, and has high application value.

[0126] The end-capsule support structure for parabolic trough solar collectors provided by this invention, through the adoption of a high-strength planar truss structure, effectively transmits and cancels the forces acting on the flexible connection, significantly reducing the risk of deformation of the capsule. Simultaneously, by optimizing the connection structure, heat loss is reduced, and processing errors and thermal expansion and contraction displacements are compensated for. The three embodiments of this invention each have their own advantages, meeting the needs of different application scenarios and providing strong technical support for the development of parabolic trough solar thermal power generation technology.

[0127] The apparatus and methods disclosed in the embodiments are described simply because they correspond to the methods disclosed in the embodiments. For relevant details, please refer to the method section.

[0128] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to make or use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A support structure for the end collector tube of a trough solar collector, comprising a collector tube support structure (1), a collector shaft extension shaft (5), a collector tube fixing frame (11), and a fixing plate (12); the collector tube support structure (1) is a planar truss structure, the bottom of which is rotatably mounted on the collector shaft extension shaft (5), and the chord (10) of the collector tube support structure (1) is a closed-section steel pipe; the top of the collector tube support structure (1) is rotatably connected to the collector tube fixing frame (11), the collector tube fixing frame (11) is connected to the collector tube extension pipe (4) through the fixing plate (12), and the fixing plate (12) is welded to the collector tube extension pipe (4).

2. The end collector tube support structure for a trough solar collector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The contact point between the collector tube fixing bracket (11) and the collector tube extension tube (4) is provided with multiple small-area protrusions, and the contact point between the fixing plate (12) and the collector tube fixing bracket (11) is provided with multiple first small-area protrusions (111).

3. The end collector tube support structure for a trough solar collector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The heat collection tube support structure (1) includes two planar truss structures of the same size and parallel vertically. The bottom of the two planar truss structures is independently supported on the extension shaft (5) of the heat collector rotating shaft. The top of the two planar truss structures is rotatably connected to two heat collection tube fixing frames (11). The two heat collection tube fixing frames (11) are connected to two fixing plates (12).

4. The end collector tube support structure for a trough solar collector according to claim 3, characterized in that, Multiple connecting rods (18) are provided on the two planar truss structures near the heat collection tube (3) and in the middle of the truss; the two ends of the connecting rods (18) are rotatably connected to the two planar truss structures respectively, so that the two planar truss structures form a spatial frame structure.

5. The end collector tube support structure for a trough solar collector according to claim 4, characterized in that, The heat collection tube support structure (1) is a single-piece planar truss structure. A top rotating shaft (102) is provided on the top of the heat collection tube support structure (1). A connecting pipe (14) is installed on the top rotating shaft (102). Heat collection tube fixing brackets (11) are installed at both ends of the connecting pipe (14). The two heat collection tube fixing brackets (11) are connected to the heat collection tube extension pipe (4) through fixing plates (12).

6. The end collector tube support structure for a trough solar collector according to claim 5, characterized in that, Among the heat collection tube fixing brackets (11) at both ends of the connecting pipe (14), at least one heat collection tube fixing bracket (11) and the corresponding fixing plate (12) can be moved along the axial direction of the heat collection tube extension pipe (4).

7. The end collector tube support structure for a trough solar collector according to claim 6, characterized in that, The top pivot (102) is connected to the chord (10) of the planar truss structure via a connecting piece (17); the connecting piece (17) is provided with an elongated hole, and the relative position between the connecting piece (17) and the chord (10) is adjusted through the gap between the holes.

8. The end collector tube support structure for a trough solar collector according to claim 7, characterized in that, The top of the end of the collector shaft extension shaft (5) away from the collector is provided with a bottom shaft (101), and the bottom of the collector tube support structure (1) is rotatably connected to the collector shaft extension shaft (5) through the bottom shaft (101).

9. The end collector tube support structure for a trough solar collector according to claim 8, characterized in that, The collector tube fixing frame (11) is provided with a fixing frame buckle (13), and the fixing frame buckle (13) and the collector tube fixing frame (11) are fastened together by bolts to clamp the collector tube extension tube (4); multiple second small area protrusions (131) are provided at the contact point between the fixing frame buckle (13) and the collector tube extension tube (4).

10. The end collector tube support structure for a trough solar collector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chord (10) is made of 80mm×80mmx3mm square tube, and the welding part (121) between the fixing plate (12) and the heat collection tube extension tube (4) is an intermittent welding structure.

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