A concentrated photovoltaics system

Abstract

A concentrated photovoltaics system 200 comprising a lens 202, a solar cell 204 and an alignment component 206, wherein the lens is configured to focus solar rays 208 onto the solar cell and alignment

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE(S) TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority from United Kingdom patent application number 2311160.2 filed on 20 July 2023, which is incorporated by reference herein. FIELD This disclosure relates to a concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) system in which the sun’s rays are concentrated onto a solar receiver, such as a solar cell, for electrical energy generation. More specifically, but not exclusively, the disclosure relates to a mechanism for maintaining an orientation of a lens of the CPV system relative to the sun which improves overall generation efficiency. BACKGROUND Concentrated photovoltaics (CPV) is a well-known technology used for solar energy generation. CPV systems concentrate sunlight onto small areas, such as a photovoltaic cell, using optical components such as lenses or mirrors. In practical implementations, the sunlight is typically directed onto multi-junction solar cells configured to convert the sunlight into electrical energy. The main principle behind CPV systems is to increase the intensity of the sunlight reaching the solar cells so as to enhance their power generation efficiency. By using lenses or mirrors to concentrate the sunlight, CPV systems can achieve much higher sunlight concentration compared to traditional photovoltaic (PV) systems. These traditional PV systems typically utilise flat solar panels (the main component of which is photovoltaic cells) that are fixed at an angle (and facing a direction) at which the most potential sunlight can be received during a typical 24-hour period. As opposed to these traditional PV systems, CPV systems are typically considered to have higher efficiency, use less material and may have cooling benefits due to the smaller area of the concentrated cells. In order for a CPV system to work as intended, these systems are typically equipped with mechanisms to maintain optimum orientation of the solar panels to the sun. These mechanisms typically include hydraulic, pneumatic or motorised actuators which are configured to track the sun and adjust the solar panels or the optical components to maximise the concentrated sunlight being captured or received by the photovoltaic cells of the panels. The controllers of these actuators may have access to data obtained via light sensors, infrared sensors, sun position algorithms or global positioning systems that are configured to track the sun’s movement across the sky during a predetermined period of time. The controllers may process the data and instruct the actuators to adjust the orientation of the solar panels or optical components (such as mirrors or lenses) accordingly. For example, in some systems a solar cell may be mounted on a support structure surrounded by a plurality of mirrors that form part of a heliostat. Each of the heliostats may be configured to adjust the mirror based on the position of the sun so that the maximum amount of sunlight can be reflected in the direction of the solar cell. Even though these systems can increase the efficiency of solar energy generation, they are associated with several drawbacks in that they: i) require complex electronics and data processing to track the movement of the sun; ii) require regular maintenance at high costs; iii) are heavy (due to the added weight of the actuators or control electronics); and iv) have a high energy consumption to control all of the components of the system. All of the above drawbacks contribute greatly to the overall costs for running and maintaining a CPV system. Accordingly, there is scope for improvement. The preceding discussion of the background is intended only to facilitate an understanding of the present disclosure. It should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgment or admission that any of the material referred to was part of the common general knowledge in the art as at the priority date of the application. SUMMARY In accordance with the disclosure there is provided a concentrated photovoltaics system comprising a lens, a solar cell and an alignment component, wherein the lens is configured to focus solar rays onto the solar cell and onto the alignment component, and wherein the alignment component is configured to deform when heated by the solar rays so as to re-orient the lens and the solar cell relative to the solar rays. The alignment component may be connected to the lens via one or more frame members such that deformation of the alignment component causes a change in orientation of the lens. The alignment component may be made from a shape memory alloy. The alignment component may be in the form of a diaphragm made from a Nickel-Titanium alloy. The lens may be configured to have dual focal points, such that the lens may focus solar rays onto both of the solar cell and the alignment component. The concentrated photovoltaics system may include an alignment mechanism which may include a top-frame, a mid-frame and a base-frame for supporting components of the system. The topframe may include a groove around its inner periphery for receiving the lens therein. The lens may include a plurality of apertures configured to receive ends of two or more supports. The supports may be u-shaped supports having arms extending upwards and terminating at the ends for being received by the apertures. Each of the arms may include a bend therein which defines a slot for receiving at least a portion of a periphery of the solar cell, so as to securely seat the solar cell therein. The supports may be rigid supports configured to enable harmonious movement of the solar cell and the lens. The supports may be wire supports. The solar cell may be a photovoltaic cell configured to generate energy when a surface thereof is exposed to solar rays. The alignment component may be fixed to the base-frame such that detachment of the alignment component from the alignment mechanism is prevented during deformation of the alignment component. The alignment component may include a plurality of apertures radially spaced around its periphery and configured to receive a plurality of complimentary supports extending from a bottom surface of the top-frame for securing the alignment component to the top-frame. The mid-frame may be rotatably connected to the base-frame at two opposite sides and to the top-frame at the other two opposite sides, so as to form a gimbal-like mechanism. The gimbal-like mechanism may grant a maximum tilt angle of 30° in each axis of rotation to the lens. The lens may be a Fresnel lens. Embodiments of the technology will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In the drawings: Figure 1 is a schematic diagram which illustrates an example embodiment of a traditional Fresnel lens focussing light on a solar cell; Figure 2 is a schematic diagram which illustrates an example embodiment of a solar mechanism according to aspects of the present disclosure; Figure 3 is a schematic diagram which illustrates an example of a lens according to aspects of the present disclosure; Figure 4A is a three-dimensional view of an example embodiment of a concentrated photovoltaics system according to aspects of the present disclosure; Figure 4B is an alternate three-dimensional view of the system shown in Figure 4A; Figure 5A is a further alternate three-dimensional view of the system shown in Figure 4A; Figure 5B is a three-dimensional section view of the system of Figure 4A; Figure 6 is an exploded view of the system of Figure 4A; and Figure 7 is a three-dimensional view of an example array of concentrated photovoltaics systems according to aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION WITH REFERENCE TO THE DRAWINGS Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a concentrated photovoltaics system. The concentrated photovoltaics system may include an alignment mechanism, which may be termed a “material-based mechanism” an “artificial heliotropic mechanism” or a “material-based alignment mechanism”. The alignment mechanism may be configured for automatic tracking of the sun’s movement for solar energy generation. This auto-alignment or auto-tracking brought about by the alignment mechanism, which may be configured to maintain sunlight exposure to one or more solar cells maintaining electrical energy generation of the cells, in use. The term “material-based”, as used herein, is indicative of the general concept and problem that the mechanism solves. For example, as opposed to standard solar generation systems including various electronic systems to achieve alignment of the solar cells with the sun, the system described herein leverages the material properties of its components to achieve such alignment. As discussed in more detail below, this is primarily achieved through the use of a shape memory alloy component, such as a Nitinol component, and a specifically designed lens having dual focal points. A shape memory alloy, such as Nitinol which is a unique alloy of nickel and titanium, is one that exhibits shape memory and super-elastic properties. These properties make the component deformable which in turn may cause alignment of components of the mechanism with the sun. The concept described herein addresses the problem of maintaining efficient solar energy capture (and therefore electrical energy generation) as the sun’s position changes throughout the day. Such a mechanism or system may be useful in various applications, such as standard energy generation in a CPV system, or even in some lesser known applications, such as the automotive or aerospace industry where maintaining alignment with the sun may be critical for energy generation. In an example embodiment, the concentrated photovoltaics system may include a lens, one or more solar cells, an alignment component, such as a Nitinol component, and a frame, having one or more supports, for supporting components of the mechanism. The lens may be a double focal point lens configured to focus solar irradiation (and consequently heat) on the solar cell(s) as well as the alignment component. The lens may be a Fresnel lens. The alignment component may be in the form of a Nitinol component, such as a Nitinol diaphragm. Nitinol’s ability to deform under certain conditions is controlled to cause alignment of the mechanism (or at least components thereof), with the sun. Nitinol is deformed at a “low” temperature and remains deformed until it is heated. After heating, a Nitinol component recovers to its original shape. Nitinol’s deformation can be described with two main phenomena: the shape memory effect and superelasticity. The shape memory effect is one of the defining characteristics of Nitinol and observed when the Nitinol return to its original shape when heated. When Nitinol is in its "martensitic" phase at a low temperature, it is relatively soft and easily deformed. In this state, Nitinol can be bent, twisted, or otherwise shaped into a temporary form. However, once it is heated above a specific temperature, known as the "martensite-to-austenite transition temperature", Nitinol reverts to its original "austenitic" phase and recovers its predetermined shape. What is considered "high" and "low" temperatures in the context of a Nitinol component is defined relative to the material's transformation temperatures, specifically the martensite-to-austenite transition temperature (“Ms or A”). A “low’ temperature in which Nitinol is in its martensitic phase refers to a temperature below the Ms or A. At this lower temperature Nitinol is more malleable which is suitable for shaping the component thereby achieving a desired alignment. Generally, a low temperature is below room temperature, often in the range of -20°C to 20°C, depending on the specific alloy composition of the Nitinol component. A “high” temperature in which Nitinol is in its austenitic phase refers to a temperature above the Ms or A. When heated beyond this point, Nitinol transitions to its austenitic phase and recovers its original predetermined shape. A typical range for setting the memory shape is between 400°C and 500°C, which would be considered a "high” temperature. It should be appreciated that the specific martensitic and austenite temperatures may vary depending on the composition of the Nitinol alloy used to form a component and the processing thereof. For example, a Nitinol wire is bent into a particular shape at room temperature (below its transition temperature), it will hold that temporary shape. But when the wire is heated above its transition temperature, it will return to its original form. This behaviour of Nitinol in response to heat (in this case, sunlight), is one of the core aspects of the disclosed mechanism as the deformation of the Nitinol component allows for the alteration of the alignment of the lens attached thereto, as discussed below. This automatic reaction continuously adjusts the system’s position to maintain maximum direct sunlight exposure throughout the day. Thus, facilitating the heliotropic nature of the system disclosed herein. Another aspect of Nitinol is that when it is in its austenitic phase at a temperature above the transition point, it exhibits superelastic behaviour. In this state, Nitinol can undergo significant deformation without permanent damage. Unlike traditional materials, which undergo plastic deformation and remain deformed after a certain point, Nitinol can be stretched or compressed well beyond its elastic limit and then fully recover its original shape when required. The superelastic properties of Nitinol are generally used in moderate temperature environments but generally limited to the so-called “superelastic window” of about 50°C. For example, the typical superelastic window of Nitinol is generally around 50°C, extending up to approximately 50°C above the austenite finish temperature (Af). This range can vary slightly depending on the specific alloy composition of a component and the processing conditions. However, it should be appreciated that the superelastic window of a component, in particular a Nitinol component, may potentially be expanded or extended beyond the typical range of about 50°C up to 1000°C using following techniques: heat treatment, mechanical processing, and altering the alloy composition in controlled lab environment. For example, heat treatment may be applying precise heat treatments, such as aging and annealing, thereby refining the phase transformation characteristics and enhancing the superelastic properties. Mechanical processing may be utilizing techniques such as cold working, thermo-mechanical cycling, and strain aging which may alter the material’s microstructure and broaden the superelastic temperature range. Changing alloy composition in a controlled lab environment may include adjusting the Nickel to Titanium (Ni-Ti) ratio and / or incorporating ternary elements (such as Copper or Iron) to modify the transformation temperature thereby extending the observable superelastic window up to approximately 100°C under experimental conditions. Both the shape memory effect and superelasticity are a result of the reversible phase transformation that occurs in Nitinol between its martensitic and austenitic phases, making it a valuable and versatile material in a wide range of applications where controllable and repeatable deformation is required. It should be appreciated that even though Nitinol is the preferred material, there are various other shape memory alloys that may also be suitable for use in the mechanism described herein. Some example materials include, Copper-Aluminium-Nickel (Cu-AI-Ni) Alloys, Copper-Zinc-Aluminium (Cu-Zn-AI) Alloys, Iron-Manganese-Silicon (Fe-Mn-Si) Alloys, Nickel-Titanium-Palladium (Ni-Ti-Pd) Alloys and Iron-Platinum (Fe-Pt) Alloys. The lens may be a Fresnel lens. The Fresnel lens is configured to collect solar rays and project concentrated solar rays to a focal point associated with the lens. To allow the solar rays to be projected onto the one or more solar cells (or panels), for energy generation, and the Nitinol component, for deformation thereof, the Fresnel lens may have at least two focal points. The reason being that, with only one focal point, the one or more solar cells would paradoxically prevent solar rays from reaching the Nitinol component, thereby hindering the necessary deformation for re-alignment, discussed above. Accordingly, to overcome this problem, a Fresnel lens with two focal points is used. This Fresnel lens design allows a portion of the solar rays to bypass the one or more solar cells and strike the Nitinol component thereby inciting the desired deformation and alignment adjustment. The one or more supports of the mechanism may include a gimbal-like mechanism allowing the lens to swivel freely and achieve artificial heliotropism when the sun rays are projected by the lens onto the Nitinol component. The freedom of movement granted by an example gimbal mechanism may allow for a maximum tilt angle of 30° in each axis of rotation, offering a significant range of alignment options of the lens. The one or more supports may include a base to which the Nitinol component may be securely fastened or attached so as to prevent the Nitinol component from detaching from the base during deformation thereof. The one or more supports are discussed in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, below. The mechanism described herein may find application as a heliotropic concentrated photovoltaic system that could be integrated onto various surfaces, such as an aircraft wing. In such applications, the system can make highly efficient use of space while maintaining optimal energy capture throughout the day, significantly enhancing the utility and viability of solar energy in diverse environments and applications. Figure 1 is a schematic illustration showing an example embodiment of a traditional Fresnel lens (100) focussing light on a solar cell (102). As can be seen from the example embodiment, when the sun (104) is directly located / positioned above the Fresnel lens (100), the lens focusses the solar rays (106) onto the solar cell for energy generation. As can further be seen from the example embodiment, when the sun (106) is positioned at an off-centre angle relative to the Fresnel lens (100), the focussed solar rays (104) are diverted away from the solar cell (102) thereby halting energy generation. It can therefore be seen that there is a need for a mechanism to change the angle of the Fresnel lens relative to the sun so as to allow for optimal focus of the solar rays onto the solar cell and thereby at least maintain (or improve) energy generation at different times of day when the sun changes from one position to the next. Figure 2 is a graphical representation of an example embodiment of a solar mechanism (200) including a Fresnel lens (202), solar cell (204) and Nitinol component (206). As discussed above, the Nitinol component is configured to react to a heat stimulus, which in this case is provided by the highly focussed solar radiation (solar rays) (208). The image on the left shows the position of the Fresnel lens (202) when the Nitinol component (206) is in its undeformed state, whereas the image on the right shows the Fresnel lens (202) when the Nitinol component (206) is in its deformed state. The overlapping solar rays (208) making contact with the Nitinol component (206) causes the Nitinol component to contract (tighten) and thereby adjust at least the orientation of the Fresnel lens (202) relative to the sun (210), so as increase the time that the rays are optimally focussed on the solar cell (204). In some embodiments, the Nitinol component (206) may be configured such that any deformation thereof causes an adjustment in the position of the solar cell (204) in addition to (or instead of) the Fresnel lens. In order to ensure that solar rays are focussed to both the solar cell, for energy generation, and the Nitinol component, for solar tracking, the Fresnel lens is configured to include at least two focal points. In other words, the Fresnel lens is specifically configured to include at least two points to which the solar rays are being focussed. Although the term “focal point” is used herein, it should be understood to include a “focal area” or “focal zone” or “focal spot” encompassing more than a point. Figure 3 is a graphical representation showing an example of a Fresnel lens (300) in a solar generating mechanism (301) having two focal points (302, 304). The lens (300) may collect solar rays (306) and focus / direct a set of concentrated rays (308) to a solar cell (310) of the mechanism (301), for electrical energy generation, and another set of concentrated rays (312) to the Nitinol component (314), being a Nitinol diaphragm, in this case, for deformation of the Nitinol component. It should be appreciated that the mechanism, as described herein, may come in various forms and sizes depending on the application of the mechanism. For example, if the mechanism will be used as part of a standalone CPV system for energy generation used in grid-tied applications, the components of the mechanism may be large compared to the components if the mechanism were to be used as an array of mechanisms on an airplane wing. It should therefore be appreciated that the mechanism is not limited in size and should be sized according to the application and desired results. Figures 4A to 6 show an example embodiment of an artificial heliotropic mechanism (400) for use in a CPV system. The mechanism may include a lens (402), supports (404), at least one solar cell (406), an alignment component (408), an alignment component support (410), and a plurality of frame members including a base frame (412), a top frame (414), and a mid-frame (416). As discussed with reference to Figure 3, above, the lens (402) may be a dual focal point Fresnel lens with the ability to collect and focus both on-axis and off-axis sunlight which is configured to focus solar rays onto the at least one solar cell (406) while simultaneously focussing solar rays onto the alignment component (408), being a Nitinol diaphragm, thereby providing the necessary heat stimulus to allow for the deformation of at least a part of the alignment component (408) (e.g. being that part of the alignment component to which the solar rays are being focused). For example, when the sun is directly overhead the lens, and receiving so-called on-axis sunlight or rays, the lens focuses sunlight into a pattern resembling concentric circles. As the sun's angle relative to the lens increases, receiving so-called off-axis sunlight, the focusing behaviour deviates. This deviation of the focusing behaviour of the lens is the result of two key factors. Firstly, off-axis rays travel a longer path through the lens compared to on-axis rays, causing them to focus at slightly different points, leading to the observed off-centering of the light circles. Off-axis focusing may also lead to the light circles becoming elongated in a specific direction. Second, rays arriving at very high angles may fall outside the lens's acceptance angle, that is the angle through which a source of light can be moved and still converge at the absorber or desired point, resulting in less overall sunlight being collected and focused. To address these factors, the alignment component may include patterns which accommodate the off-centering of the light circles for a range of sun angles to reduce the impact of off-axis focusing on solar cell efficiency. The alignment component may have a specific shape and / or configuration, for example a diaphragm bent into a zig-zag shape (see Figure 5A and 5B) or saw-tooth-like / wave shape in cross-section (see Figures 2 and 3). This shape facilitates operation of the alignment component selectively deforming by contracting in response to heat stimuli and expanding once the heat stimuli is removed. The shape, configuration or pattern selection depends on various factors including the contraction of the alignment component upon heating and the expansion of the component upon cooling. As is explained above, Nitinol, in its austenitic phase (at a so-called “high” temperature), exhibits shape memory. When heated above its transition temperature, a pre-shaped or pre-stressed Nitinol diaphragm attempts to return to its original, undeformed configuration. However, constraints imposed by an overall shape of the diaphragm may prevent a complete return of the diaphragm to its original undeformed configuration, resulting in a net contraction along an axis of the diaphragm. This net contraction may be determined by shape, configuration or pattern of the diaphragm such as for example a zig-zag or saw-tooth pattern. As the temperature falls, Nitinol transitions back to its martensitic phase. In this phase, it softens and allows the pre-stressed shape (for example the zig-zag or saw-tooth shape or pattern) to recover, causing the component to expand and return to its initial position. A zig-zag or saw-tooth patterned Nitinol diaphragm may be advantageous over a Nitinol netting configuration insofar as it may provide more precise alignment of the alignment component offering increased inherent directionality in its expansion and contraction. Furthermore, a netted structure or configuration may be more susceptible to fatigue or wear over time due to the continuous expansion and contraction cycles required. Nonetheless, Nitinol netting may be a suitable alternative in specific applications where a more flexible or adaptable alignment component is required. Deformation, in particular contraction, of a part or parts of the alignment component in reaction to a heat stimulus and the deformation, in particular expansion, of other part(s) of the alignment component in reaction to a lack of a heat stimulus, facilitate lens movement throughout the day. As the sun moves across the sky, the alignment component continuously reacts to heat stimuli received or not received from the solar rays by expanding / contracting and thus tilting the lens to continuously orientate it towards the sun. Where a heat stimulus (in the form of solar rays) is received onto a portion or part of the alignment component / Nitinol diaphragm, that part of the alignment component contracts to its original "austenitic" phase (at a high temperature). Where a heat stimulus (in the form of solar rays) is not or no longer received onto a portion or part of the alignment component / Nitinol diaphragm, that part of the alignment component expands to its flexible "martensitic" phase (at a low temperature). Throughout the day, as the sun continuously moves across the sky, different parts of the alignment component receive sun rays (and heat stimuli). For example, at a certain time of day the sun is in direct alignment with the lens, solar cell and alignment component as is the case in Figure 3. As the sun moves across the sky during the day, the solar rays no longer pass through the lens to directly focus onto both of the solar cell and the alignment component as is shown in Figure 2 on the left. In certain instances, when the sun moves away from direct alignment with the lens, solar cell and alignment component, the solar cell does not receive adequate heat stimulus to generate energy. The solar rays, and as such the necessary heat stimulus, are then focussed onto only a part of the alignment component. It should be appreciated that this part of the alignment component (which is receiving an increased amount of heat stimulus due to increased solar rays reflecting thereon) will then contract I tighten and deform causing the lens to tilt towards an opposite side to the part of the alignment component (which is at a lower temperature and expanded / flexible) as can be seen in Figure 2 on the right. This contraction and counter-expansion of the alignment component causes the lens to tilt into alignment with the sun and the solar rays to once again pass through the lens onto both the solar cell and the alignment component. Therefore, the sun rays pass onto the solar cell thus permitting relatively constant electrical energy generation as the sun moves in and out of direct alignment with the concentrated photovoltaics system. Those parts of the alignment component which no longer receive a heat stimulus from the sun rays as the sun moves across the sky will once again expand (as opposed to being in a contracted state), causing flexibility of those parts which facilitates deformation of that part of the alignment component on an opposite side to the part of the alignment component which is receiving sunlight as can be seen in Figure 2 on the right. The deformation on the unlit part or expanding part of the alignment component is also necessary to facilitate the lens to tilt towards the unlit portion. The Fresnel lens (402) may be shaped and configured to be seated (and, in some embodiments removably secured) in a groove (418) provided in a top surface (420) of the top frame (414). The shape of the groove may correspond to the shape of the Fresnel lens (402) to allow for easy securing of the lens within the groove. The top frame (414) may include further securing members such as sliding members which releasably secure the lens within the groove when slid over an edge of the lens. The lens (402) may include a plurality of, in this case four, apertures (422) configured to receive ends (424) of the supports (404) so as to removably secure the supports (404) to the lens (402). The supports (404) may be wire supports, or in some embodiments the supports may be made from any suitable materials capable of withstanding tough environmental conditions and long exposure to sunlight. Even though only two wire supports are shown, it should be appreciated more wire supports may be used in practice, depending on the size and weight of the components of the mechanism (400). The wire supports (404) may be radially and / or angularly spaced from one another and configured to receive the at least one solar cell (406) thereon. As can be seen from Figure 4, each wire support (404) may be u-shaped with each of the arms thereof including a bend therein which defines a slot (426). The slot may be sized appropriately to receive at least a portion of the periphery of the solar cell (406), so as to securely seat the solar cell (406) therein. In other words, the wire supports (404) are configured to cradle the solar cell such that the solar cell moves in harmony with the lens when it moves (or swivels) from one position to another to maintain the desired orientation relative to the sun. The top frame (414) may further include a plurality of support members (428) configured to be received by complimentary apertures (430) provided along the periphery of the alignment component (408). The apertures may be radially and / or angularly spaced apart and may locate towards an outer circumference of the alignment component. It should be appreciated that the number and size (diameter) of these apertures may depend on the size of the overall mechanism. The alignment component (408) may be connected to the top frame (414) via the support members (428) when fitted within the apertures (430) such that the eventual deformation of the alignment component (408) causes movement of the top frame (414) and therefore the lens (402). In other words, the alignment component (408), when exposed to the heat from the refracted solar rays, deforms and drives the re-alignment of the lens. In order to prevent the undesired movement or disengagement of the alignment component (408) a base frame (412) is provided. The base frame (412) is configured to receive the alignment component support (410), such as at a pin or other fastening tool, for securing the alignment component (408) thereto. The base frame (412) therefore facilitates the deformation of the alignment component (408) without permitting detachment of the alignment component (408) therefrom. The mechanism (400) may further include a mid-frame (416) configured to facilitate movement of the lens (402) to a maximum tilt angle of 30° in each axis of rotation, so as to effectively track the sun’s movement throughout the day. The mid-frame (416) may be secured to both the base frame (412) and the top frame (414), as shown in Figures 4A-6. The exact configuration of the midframe (416) provides for the frame to effectively act as a gimbal mechanism thereby enabling the desired movement of the lens (402) when the alignment component (408) is deformed. The frames may be connected to one another by means of push pins, nuts and bolts, or the like. As will be appreciated, the frames and supports may be made from any suitable materials that are capable of withstanding tough environmental conditions and long exposure to sunlight. Figure 7 is a schematic illustration showing an example embodiment of an array of artificial heliotropic mechanisms (400) in a CPV system implemented on an aircraft wing (500). The figure shows how nearly one hundred artificial heliotropic mechanisms can be installed into an aircraft wing with a span of roughly four metres. Each frame and solar cell providing great levels of energy provision. The artificial heliotropic mechanism for Concentrated Photovoltaics (CPV) disclosed herein primarily addresses the challenge of optimising solar energy collection. Solar panels (or cells) and concentrators must continuously adjust their orientation to track the sun's movement across the sky in order to maximise sunlight capture and, hence, energy production. Current solutions for this problem tend to rely on heavy, energy-consuming, complex electronic systems that necessitate maintenance and add weight to the solar installations. These factors can pose considerable challenges in specific applications, such as on aircraft or satellites, where minimising weight and energy consumption is important. Moreover, the requirement for additional electronic systems and the associated maintenance and maintenance costs reduces the costeffectiveness and efficiency of solar energy generation. The mechanism provided herein also addresses the problem of limited space and additional payload, particularly in applications where the surface area available for the installation of solar collectors is restricted. An example is the wings of an aircraft where, despite the area being limited, there is significant potential for solar energy harvesting, as shown in Figure 7. Furthermore, in satellite applications, the mechanism provided reduces the need for energy and cost-intensive Attitude Determination and Control Systems (ADCS). These systems are used to orient the spacecraft towards the sun, which may be required for operation of the solar cells. By incorporating an auto-aligning feature into the solar cells themselves, the need for complex, energy-consuming ADCS is eliminated, thereby reducing operational costs and energy requirements. The mechanism disclosed herein therefore provides a self-aligning solar panel that does not require external energy input for tracking the sun. It remains aligned with the sun’s orientation to maximise solar energy capture throughout the day, without the need for maintenance or the addition of weight from extra electronic and mechanical systems. In addition, by using a smaller lens diameter and effectively utilising the available space, the mechanism improves the efficiency of space usage, a significant advantage in applications with limited surface area. Furthermore, the absence of electronic or mechanical components makes the mechanism virtually maintenance-free. Traditional tracking systems may suffer from wear and tear or component failure due to continuous motion and exposure to harsh outdoor conditions, requiring regular inspection and maintenance. In contrast, the disclosed material-based mechanism, if constructed with materials resistant to corrosion or oxidation, can operate indefinitely without the need for ongoing maintenance. The mechanism therefore presents a significant advance in terms of efficiency and maintenance. A material-based mechanism for the automatic tracking of and alignment with the sun's movement is described herein. This auto-alignment maintains maximum sunlight exposure to a solar cell, optimizing its energy generation. The concept addresses the problem of maintaining efficient solar energy capture as the sun's position changes throughout the day and is particularly intended for applications in concentrated photovoltaics and potentially aerospace or automotive applications where maintaining alignment with the sun is critical for energy generation. Aspects of the present disclosure provide an Artificial Heliotropic Mechanism for Concentrated Photovoltaics (CPV) system which maximizing sunlight capture through an autonomous materialbased mechanism inspired by plant heliotropism. The system may include: 1. Material-Based Autonomous Tracking: The core mechanism involves the use of Nitinol, a shape memory alloy of Nickel and Titanium. When exposed to sunlight, the Nitinol deforms and causes the attached Fresnel lens to swivel, aligning the lens (and thus the solar cell) with the sun's movement. This mechanism eliminates the need for external energy-consuming and complex electronic tracking systems. 2. Two-Focus Fresnel Lens: To overcome the challenge of sunlight access to the Nitinol while maintaining the direct exposure of the sunlight to the solar cell, a Fresnel lens with two focal points is used. This allows some sunbeams to bypass the solar cell, warming the Nitinol to activate its shape memory properties. 3. Gimbal Mechanism: A gimbal mechanism allows the lens to tilt up to 30° in each axis of rotation, ensuring it can effectively track the sun's movement throughout the day. 4. Nitinol Diaphragm and Wire Support: A wire support carries the solar cell, moving in sync with the lens as it swivels. The Nitinol diaphragm, supported by a fixture, deforms with the heat of the sun, driving this movement. These features together create a self-aligning solar panel that does not require external energy input for tracking the sun. It remains aligned to maximize solar energy capture throughout the day, without the need for maintenance or the addition of weight from extra electronic systems. In addition, by using a smaller lens diameter and effectively utilizing the available space, the system described herein improves the efficiency of space usage, a significant advantage in applications with limited surface area. The foregoing description has been presented for the purpose of illustration; it is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the technology to the precise forms disclosed. Persons skilled in the relevant art can appreciate that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above disclosure. The language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter. It is therefore intended that the scope of the present disclosure be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based 5 hereon. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of any accompanying claims. Finally, throughout the specification and any accompanying claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the word ‘comprise’ or variations such as ‘comprises’ or ‘comprising’ will be understood 10 to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

Claims

1. A concentrated photovoltaics system comprising a lens, a solar cell and an alignment component, wherein the lens is configured to focus solar rays onto the solar cell and onto the alignment component, and wherein the alignment component is configured to deform when heated by the solar rays so as to re-orient the lens and the solar cell relative to the solar rays.

2. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the alignment component is connected to the lens via one or more frame members such that deformation of the alignment component causes a change in orientation of the lens.

3. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the alignment component is made from a shape memory alloy.

4. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the alignment component is in the form of a diaphragm made from a Nickel-Titanium alloy.

5. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lens is configured to have dual focal points, such that the lens may focus solar rays onto both of the solar cell and the alignment component.

6. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, including supporting components selected from one of more of a top-frame, a mid-frame and a base-frame.

7. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in claim 6, wherein the top-frame incudes a groove around an inner periphery of the top-frame for receiving the lens therein.

8. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lens includes a plurality of apertures configured to receive ends of two or more supports.

9. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in claim 8, wherein the supports are rigid supports configured to enable harmonious movement of the solar cell and the lens.

10. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in claim 8 or 9, wherein the supports are u-shaped supports having arms extending upwards and terminating at ends configured to be received by the apertures.

11. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in claim 10, wherein each arm includes a bend therein which is configured to define a slot for receiving at least a portion of a periphery of the solar cell, so as to securely seat the solar cell therein.

12. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the supports are wire supports.

13. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the solar cell is a photovoltaic cell configured to generate energy when a surface thereof is exposed to solar rays.

14. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 13, wherein the alignment component is fixed to the base-frame such that detachment of the alignment component from the mechanism is prevented during deformation of the alignment component.

15. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 14, wherein the alignment component includes a plurality of apertures radially spaced around a periphery of the alignment component and configured to receive a plurality of complimentary supports extending from a bottom surface of the top-frame for securing the alignment component to the top-frame.

16. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 15, wherein the mid-frame is rotatably connected to the base-frame at two opposite sides and to the top-frame at the other two opposite sides, so as to form a gimbal-like mechanism.

17. The concentrated photovoltaics system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lens is a Fresnel lens.19

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