Concentrated photovoltaic power generation system and solar thermal water storage system

Abstract

The present invention provides a concentrated solar power generation system that simultaneously generates electricity using sunlight and produces hot water using solar heat by using multiple solar power generation panels arranged in parallel, while also offering excellent assembly capabilities for multiple solar power generation panels and minimizing the decrease in power output. [Solution] The concentrated photovoltaic power generation device comprises a plurality of parallel photovoltaic panels and a metal pipe through which fluid flows, provided on each of the plurality of photovoltaic panels. Each of the plurality of photovoltaic panels comprises a housing having a frame, a bottom plate, and a plurality of lenses, a plurality of power generation elements arranged at the light-concentrating positions of each of the plurality of lenses on the inner surface of the bottom plate, and an insulating material disposed between the inner surface and each of the plurality of power generation elements. The metal pipe is fixed to the outer surface of the bottom plate so as to pass through positions corresponding to the arrangement positions of the plurality of power generation elements on the outer surface of the bottom plate. The bottom plate of each of the plurality of photovoltaic panels is made of a metal material and is grounded.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a concentrating solar power generation device and a solar heat hot water storage system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a system including a concentrating solar power generation module and a waste heat mechanism that raises the temperature of water by the heat generated in the concentrating solar power generation module. The solar power generation module includes a concentrating solar power generation element disposed on a bottom plate within a housing. The waste heat mechanism includes a flow path disposed below the concentrating solar power generation element. The flow path is provided within the bottom plate or within a tubular member disposed between the bottom plate and the concentrating solar power generation element. Hereinafter, the concentrating solar power generation module will be referred to as a solar power generation panel, and the concentrating solar power generation element will be simply referred to as a power generation element.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] It has been considered to make a single solar power generation panel of a size that can be carried by one person and assemble a plurality of solar power generation panels at the installation location for use as a system. When assembling a plurality of solar power generation panels, sufficient consideration has not been given to the connection between the flow paths when each solar power generation panel is provided with a flow path. Furthermore, sufficient consideration has not been given to the method of grounding from a plurality of assembled solar power generation panels.

[0005] One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a concentrated solar power generation system that simultaneously generates electricity using sunlight and produces hot water using solar heat by using multiple parallel solar power generation panels, while being easy to assemble and less prone to a decrease in power output. Another objective of the present invention is to provide a solar thermal hot water storage system that can efficiently use the hot water produced by the above concentrated solar power generation system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention provides a concentrating solar power generation device comprising: a plurality of parallel solar power generation panels; a drive mechanism for tracking the plurality of solar power generation panels to the sun; metal pipes provided on each of the plurality of solar power generation panels through which fluid flows; and connecting parts for connecting adjacent metal pipes. Each of the plurality of solar power generation panels comprises: a housing having a frame, a bottom plate, and a plurality of lenses arranged facing the bottom plate; a plurality of power generation elements arranged at the light-concentrating positions of each of the plurality of lenses on the inner surface of the bottom plate; and an insulating material disposed between the inner surface and each of the plurality of power generation elements. The metal pipes are fixed to the outer surface of the bottom plate so as to pass through positions corresponding to the arrangement positions of the plurality of power generation elements on the outer surface of the bottom plate. The bottom plate of each of the plurality of solar power generation panels is made of a metal material and is grounded. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The present invention provides a concentrated photovoltaic power generation system that simultaneously generates electricity using sunlight and produces hot water using solar heat by using multiple photovoltaic panels arranged in parallel. It offers excellent ease of assembly of multiple photovoltaic panels and is less prone to a decrease in power output. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the concentrated solar power generation device of the embodiment, seen from the front. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the concentrated solar power generation device of the embodiment, seen from the rear. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing an example of a solar power generation panel included in the concentrated solar power generation system of the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of the solar power generation panel provided in the concentrated solar power generation system of the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection configurations between multiple solar panels and multiple metal tubes in the concentrated solar power generation system of the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing another example of a method for fixing metal pipes in a concentrated solar power generation device of the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the metal pipes in the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device of the embodiment covered with insulating material. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the solar thermal water storage system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the solar thermal water storage system according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the solar thermal water storage system according to Embodiment 3. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] [Description of Embodiments of the Invention] First, embodiments of the present invention will be listed and described.

[0010] (1) A concentrated solar power generation device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a plurality of solar power generation panels arranged in parallel, a drive mechanism for tracking the plurality of solar power generation panels to the sun, metal pipes provided on each of the plurality of solar power generation panels through which fluid flows, and connecting parts for connecting adjacent metal pipes. Each of the plurality of solar power generation panels comprises a housing having a frame, a bottom plate, and a plurality of lenses arranged to face the bottom plate, a plurality of power generation elements arranged at the light-concentrating positions of each of the plurality of lenses on the inner surface of the bottom plate, and an insulating material disposed between the inner surface and each of the plurality of power generation elements. The metal pipes are fixed to the outer surface of the bottom plate so as to pass through positions corresponding to the arrangement positions of the plurality of power generation elements on the outer surface of the bottom plate. The bottom plate of each of the plurality of solar power generation panels is made of a metal material and is grounded.

[0011] In the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device of the present invention, multiple photovoltaic panels can be assembled, allowing each photovoltaic panel to be miniaturized to a size that can be carried by one person. Since the metal tubes are fixed to the outer surface of the bottom plate, adjacent metal tubes can be easily connected by connectors when assembling multiple photovoltaic panels. In each photovoltaic panel, the metal tubes are arranged to pass through positions corresponding to the arrangement positions of multiple power generation elements, so the fluid flowing through the multiple metal tubes connected in a series at the connectors is efficiently heated by solar heat.

[0012] For example, in each of a plurality of solar power generation panels, when a plurality of power generation elements are electrically connected to the inner surface of the bottom plate, the plurality of solar power generation panels are arranged separately so that adjacent bottom plates are not electrically connected. However, when a metal pipe is fixed to the outer surface of each bottom plate, if the metal pipes arranged on adjacent bottom plates are electrically connected, the adjacent bottom plates having a potential difference are electrically connected by the metal pipe. As a result, the bottom plates are short-circuited, and current flows through the metal pipe, which may reduce the power generation output of the concentrating solar power generation device. Although the adjacent metal pipes may be connected by a connecting portion formed of an electrically insulating material, the insulating connecting portion is likely to deteriorate. In the concentrating solar power generation device of the present invention, in each of the plurality of solar power generation panels, an insulating material is arranged between the inner surface of the bottom plate and the plurality of power generation elements, so that each bottom plate can be grounded individually, and each metal pipe fixed to the outer surface of each bottom plate is also grounded. By grounding each metal pipe, current does not flow through each metal pipe, and the power generation output of the concentrating solar power generation device is unlikely to decrease. Further, when the bottom plates of each of the plurality of solar power generation panels are grounded individually, even if any two of the plurality of solar power generation panels are short-circuited, there is no risk of electric shock because no high voltage is applied to the bottom plates and the metal pipes.

[0013] (2) In the concentrating solar power generation device of (1) above, each of the plurality of power generation elements may be made of a compound semiconductor.

[0014] A power generation element made of a compound semiconductor is likely to minimize a decrease in power generation output accompanying a temperature rise even when the temperature rises due to the concentrated sunlight.

[0015] (3) In the concentrating solar power generation device of (1) or (2) above, the concentration ratio may be 100 times or more.

[0016] If the concentration ratio is 100 times or more, power generation can be performed efficiently, and the fluid flowing through the metal pipe can be heated efficiently.

[0017] (4) In the concentrating solar power generation device of any one of (1) to (3) above, the connecting portion may be formed of a metal material.

[0018] The connection part formed of a metallic material is hardly deteriorated even when exposed to the external environment.

[0019] (5) In the concentrating solar power generation device according to any one of (1) to (4) above, the metal pipe may be serpentine.

[0020] The serpentine metal pipe can easily pass through positions corresponding to the arrangement positions of a plurality of power generation elements in each solar power generation panel in one stroke.

[0021] (6) In the concentrating solar power generation device according to any one of (1) to (5) above, the metal pipe may be welded to the outer surface.

[0022] When the metal pipe is welded to the outer surface, the metal pipe and the outer surface are likely to be firmly fixed.

[0023] (7) In the concentrating solar power generation device according to (6) above, the metal pipe may be brazed to the outer surface.

[0024] In the case of brazing, the base material to be joined is not melted, and a metal with a melting point lower than that of the base material is melted in the gap between the joints, and capillary action is utilized to penetrate into the gap for joining. Therefore, it is difficult to damage the metal pipe and the bottom plate.

[0025] (8) In the concentrating solar power generation device according to any one of (1) to (5) above, the metal pipe is fixed to the outer surface with a fixing member, and the thermal conductivity of the fixing member may be 0.1 W / m·K or more.

[0026] When using a fixing member, it is easy to fix the metal pipe to the outer surface. If the thermal conductivity of the fixing member is 0.1 W / m·K or more, heat transfer from the bottom plate to the metal pipe is easy.

[0027] (9) In the concentrating solar power generation device according to (8) above, the fixing member may be a double-sided tape.

[0028] Using double-sided tape makes it easy to securely fix metal pipes to the outer surface.

[0029] (10) In any of the concentrating photovoltaic power generation devices described in (1) to (9) above, the metal pipe may have a flat surface facing the outer surface.

[0030] If the flat surface of the metal tube is fixed to the outer surface, the metal tube and the outer surface will be in surface contact, making it easier for heat to be transferred from the bottom plate to the metal tube.

[0031] (11) Any of the concentrating photovoltaic power generation devices described in (1) to (10) above may be provided with an insulating material to cover each of the metal pipes.

[0032] If each metal pipe is covered with insulation, heat loss from the fluid heated by solar energy can be suppressed.

[0033] (12) A solar thermal hot water storage system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a concentrating photovoltaic power generation device as described in any of (1) to (11) above, a first tank in which the fluid is stored, a supply pipe connecting the first end of a plurality of metal pipes connected in a series at the connection part to the first tank, a discharge pipe connecting the second end of a plurality of metal pipes connected in a series at the connection part to the first tank, and a pump that circulates the fluid in the order of the first tank, the supply pipe, the metal pipes, the discharge pipe, and the first tank.

[0034] In the solar thermal hot water storage system described in (12) above, the fluid heated by solar energy can be stored in the first tank.

[0035] (13) A solar thermal hot water storage system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises any of the concentrating photovoltaic power generation devices described in (1) to (11) above, a source for supplying the low-temperature fluid, a second tank for storing the high-temperature fluid, a supply pipe connecting the first end of a plurality of metal pipes connected in a series at the connection point to the supply source, a discharge pipe connecting the second end of a plurality of metal pipes connected in a series at the connection point to the second tank, and a pump for pressurizing the low-temperature fluid from the supply source to the metal pipes.

[0036] In the solar water storage system described in (13) above, the fluid heated by solar energy can be stored in a second tank. In the solar water storage system described in (13) above, the second tank may be a container, such as a bathtub, for immediate use of the fluid heated by solar energy.

[0037] (14) In the solar thermal hot water storage system described in (12) or (13) above, the system may include a third tank in which the fluid is antifreeze and water is stored, and a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the fluid flowing through the discharge pipe and the water.

[0038] Since antifreeze does not freeze at ambient temperature, it can be heated by solar energy regardless of the ambient temperature. When the fluid is antifreeze, heating the water with a heat exchanger can produce hot water that is safe for consumption, such as for baths and showers.

[0039] (15) In any of the solar thermal hot water storage systems described in (12) to (14) above, the supply pipe and the discharge pipe may have a bend that can follow the movement of the plurality of photovoltaic panels.

[0040] Multiple solar panels track the sun using a drive mechanism. If the supply and discharge pipes have flexible sections that can follow the movement of the multiple solar panels, the multiple solar panels can easily track the sun without their movement being restricted by the supply and discharge pipes.

[0041] [Details of the Embodiments of the Invention] Specific examples of the present invention, a concentrated photovoltaic power generation device and a solar thermal hot water storage system, will be described with reference to the drawings. The sizes of the components shown in the drawings are for illustrative purposes only and do not necessarily represent actual dimensions and proportions. The present invention is not limited to these examples and is as defined by the claims, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended.

[0042] <Concentrated solar power generation system> ≪Overview≫ As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1 of the present invention comprises a plurality of photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, 2C, a drive mechanism 4, and a plurality of metal pipes 5A, 5B, 5C connected in a series by connection parts 6A, 6B. In the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1 of the present invention, the photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, 2C simultaneously generate electricity using sunlight and produce hot water using solar heat. The fluid heated by solar heat flows through the metal pipes 5A, 5B, 5C.

[0043] Multiple solar power panels 2A, 2B, and 2C have similar configurations. Therefore, when describing the configuration of each solar power panel 2A, 2B, and 2C with reference to Figures 3 and 4, they may be collectively referred to as solar power panel 2. Multiple metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C have similar configurations. Therefore, when describing the configuration of each metal pipe 5A, 5B, and 5C with reference to Figures 4, 6, and 7, they may be collectively referred to as metal pipe 5.

[0044] One of the features of the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1 of the present invention is that, as shown in Figure 4, a metal pipe 5 is fixed to the outer surface 22b of the bottom plate 22 that constitutes the housing 20 of the photovoltaic power generation panel 2. Another feature of the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1 of the present invention is that, in the photovoltaic power generation panel 2, an insulating material 26 is placed between the inner surface 22a of the bottom plate 22 and the multiple power generation elements 25, and the bottom plate 22, which is made of a metal material, is grounded for each of the photovoltaic power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C. As shown in Figure 5, the bottom plate 22 is connected to a grounding wire 29. Because the bottom plate 22 is grounded, the metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C fixed to the outer surface 22b of the bottom plate 22 are also grounded.

[0045] ≪Solar power generation panels≫ As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the concentrated photovoltaic power generation system 1 comprises multiple parallel-arranged photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, and 2C. In this example, the three photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, and 2C are connected side by side.

[0046] Adjacent solar power panels 2A, 2B, and 2C are detachable from each other. In this example, as shown in Figure 2, two cross members 409A and 409B are arranged vertically with a gap between them on the mounting frame 40, which will be described later. The two cross members 409A and 409B are connected by side members 408A and 408B, which are located on the back side of the solar power panels 2A, 2B, and 2C. Rails are provided on the cross members 409A and 409B, although they are not shown. At the upper end of each solar power panel 2A, 2B, and 2C, there is a rail that slides on the rail of the cross member 409A, although it is not shown. At the lower end of each solar power panel 2A, 2B, and 2C, there is a rail that slides on the rail of the cross member 409B, although it is not shown. By sliding the rails of each solar power generation panel 2A, 2B, and 2C onto the rails of the cross members 409A and 409B, multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C are arranged side by side between the two cross members 409A and 409B.

[0047] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the solar power generation panel 2 comprises a housing 20, a plurality of power generation elements 25, and an insulating material 26. The housing 20 has a plurality of lenses 24 arranged to correspond to the plurality of power generation elements 25.

[0048] As shown in Figure 3, the housing 20 comprises a frame 21, a bottom plate 22, and a top plate 23. In this example, multiple lenses 24 constitute the top plate 23 of the housing 20. For the sake of explanation, Figure 3 shows the housing 20 with the top plate 23 removed so that the inside is visible.

[0049] The frame 21 constitutes the side wall of the housing 20. In this example, the frame 21 is a rectangular frame. The frame 21 is made of, for example, a resin material.

[0050] The bottom plate 22 is provided at the lower end of the frame 21. As shown in Figure 4, the bottom plate 22 has an inner surface 22a and an outer surface 22b. The inner surface 22a is the surface of the bottom plate 22 that faces into the housing 20. The outer surface 22b is the surface opposite to the inner surface 22a and faces outside the housing 20. In this example, the bottom plate 22 is a rectangular plate. The bottom plate 22 is made of a metal material. The temperature of the bottom plate 22 tends to rise due to the heat generated by the power generation elements 25. If the bottom plate 22 is made of a metal material, it will not deform easily even if the temperature rises. If the bottom plate 22 does not deform easily, the focusing position of each lens 24 and the arrangement position of each power generation element 25 will be easier to maintain in an appropriate state. The metal that forms the bottom plate 22 is, for example, aluminum or copper, or an alloy of either. In this example, the bottom plate 22 is made of aluminum.

[0051] Each of the bottom plates 22 of the multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C is connected to a grounding wire 29, as shown in Figure 5. In Figure 5, for the sake of explanation, the housing 20 and metal tubes 5A, 5B, and 5C are shown in cross-section, and the power generation elements 25 inside the solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C are shown with the battery symbol in the electrical circuit diagram. Since an insulating material 26 is placed between the inner surface 22a of the bottom plate 22 and the multiple power generation elements 25 in each of the multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C, each bottom plate 22 can be grounded individually. When each bottom plate 22 is grounded, each of the metal tubes 5A, 5B, and 5C fixed to the outer surface 22b of each bottom plate 22 is also grounded. Because each of the metal tubes 5A, 5B, and 5C is grounded, no current flows through each of the metal tubes 5A, 5B, and 5C, and the power output of the concentrated solar power generation device 1 is less likely to decrease. Furthermore, if each of the bottom plates 22 of the multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C is individually connected to the grounding wire 29, even if any of the multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C short-circuit together, high voltage will not be applied to the bottom plates 22 and metal pipes 5, thus eliminating the risk of electric shock.

[0052] The top plate 23 is provided at the upper end of the frame 21. The top plate 23 is positioned to face the bottom plate 22. In this example, the top plate 23 is a rectangular plate. In this example, the top plate 23 is composed of multiple lenses 24 arranged in a matrix. For example, each of the multiple square sections shown by the dashed lines in Figure 3 is a lens 24. Each lens 24 is, for example, a Fresnel lens. Although not shown, the top plate 23 may have a grid-like opening, and the lenses 24 may be arranged in this opening. Even in this case, the multiple lenses 24 are arranged to face the bottom plate 22.

[0053] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the multiple power generation elements 25 are arranged at the light-gathering positions of each lens 24 on the inner surface 22a of the bottom plate 22. Each of the multiple power generation elements 25 is made of, for example, a compound semiconductor. Power generation elements 25 made of compound semiconductors tend to minimize the decrease in power output due to the rise in temperature, even when their temperature rises due to sunlight focused by each lens 24.

[0054] As shown in Figure 4, a secondary lens 28 is placed on each power generation element 25. The secondary lens 28 is, for example, a rod lens. The secondary lens 28 may also be a spherical lens. In the photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, and 2C, sunlight is focused by the lens 24 and incident on the secondary lens 28. The sunlight incident on the secondary lens 28 is transmitted to the power generation element 25. The power generation element 25 generates electricity by receiving the transmitted sunlight.

[0055] The focusing magnification of the optical system including lens 24 is, for example, 100 times or more. In this example, the focusing magnification is the focusing magnification of both lens 24 and secondary lens 28. The focusing magnification is the value obtained by dividing the light-receiving area of ​​each of the multiple lenses 24 by the area of ​​each of the multiple power generation elements 25. If the focusing magnification is 100 times or more, power can be generated efficiently and the fluid flowing through the metal tube 5 can be heated efficiently. The focusing magnification may also be 200 times or more, or even 300 times or more.

[0056] An insulating material 26 and a wiring material 27 are placed between the inner surface 22a of the base plate 22 and each power generation element 25. The insulating material 26 is placed on the inner surface 22a. The insulating material 26 electrically insulates each power generation element 25 from the base plate 22. The insulating material 26 is made of, for example, polyimide. Because the insulating material 26 is placed between the inner surface 22a and each power generation element 25, the base plate 22 can be grounded. The wiring material 27 is placed on the insulating material 26. The wiring material 27 is electrically connected to each power generation element 25. The wiring material 27 is made of, for example, copper. The insulating material 26 and the wiring material 27 constitute, for example, a flexible circuit board. In Figure 3, the insulating material 26 and the wiring material 27 are omitted.

[0057] The photovoltaic power generation panel 2 may include a shielding plate positioned between multiple lenses 24 and a secondary lens 28, although this is not shown in the diagram. The shielding plate has openings formed at positions corresponding to each lens 24, corresponding to the shape of each lens 24. Sunlight focused by the lenses 24 passes through these openings. If the photovoltaic power generation panel 2 is unable to properly track the sun and the direction of incidence of sunlight and the optical axis of the secondary lens 28 are significantly misaligned, the light attempting to concentrate at the misaligned position will hit the shielding plate. In other words, the shielding plate has the function of preventing sunlight from concentrating in areas other than the power generation elements 25 corresponding to each of the multiple lenses 24.

[0058] ≪Drive Mechanism≫ The drive mechanism 4 causes the multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C to track the sun. "Sun tracking" means adjusting the orientation of the multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C in accordance with the movement of the sun so that the optical axis of the sunlight aligns with the optical axis of each of the multiple lenses 24. The multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C are driven as a single unit. As shown in Figure 2, the drive mechanism 4 is attached to a mounting frame 40 for fixing the multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C to the installation site. The drive mechanism 4 comprises a first tracking mechanism 41 and a second tracking mechanism 42.

[0059] [Stand] The mounting frame 40 comprises a fixed base 401, a shaft portion 403, a rotating base 404, support members 405, 406, and side members 408A, 408B. The fixed base 401 is a base fixed to the installation site. The shaft portion 403 extends perpendicularly to the fixed base 401 at its center; that is, the shaft portion 403 is aligned vertically. The rotating base 404 is arranged parallel to the fixed base 401. The rotating base 404 is rotatably supported relative to the fixed base 401 by the shaft portion 403. The side members 408A, 408B support multiple solar panels 2A, 2B, 2C from the back. In this example, cross members 409A, 409B are attached to the side members 408A, 408B, and multiple solar panels 2A, 2B, 2C are attached to these cross members 409A, 409B. Support members 405 and 406 connect the rotating base 404 to the side members 408A and 408B. Multiple solar panels 2A, 2B, and 2C are supported on the fixed base 401 by the shaft 403, the rotating base 404, the support members 405 and 406, and the side members 408A and 408B.

[0060] [First tracking mechanism] The first tracking mechanism 41 drives multiple solar power panels 2A, 2B, 2C to vary the yaw angle of each solar power panel 2A, 2B, 2C relative to the fixed base 401. The first tracking mechanism 41 comprises a shaft portion 403 of the mounting frame 40, a rotating base 404, and a motor (not shown). The rotating base 404 is connected to the shaft portion 403 so that the rotating base 404 can rotate freely around the axis of the shaft portion 403. The motor is the power source for rotating the rotating base 404. Based on signals from a sensor 45 (described later), the first tracking mechanism 41 causes the rotating base 404 to rotate around the shaft portion 403, changing the yaw angle of the multiple solar power panels 2A, 2B, 2C relative to the fixed base 401.

[0061] [Second tracking mechanism] The second tracking mechanism 42 drives the multiple solar power panels 2A, 2B, 2C to vary the elevation angle of the multiple solar power panels 2A, 2B, 2C relative to the fixed base 401. The second tracking mechanism 42 comprises a cylinder 421, a piston rod 422, support members 405, 406 of the mounting frame 40, and a motor (not shown). The base end of the cylinder 421 is rotatably mounted to the rotating base 404. The rotation of the cylinder 421 and the variation of the elevation angle of the solar power panels 2A, 2B, 2C are linked. The piston rod 422 is inserted into the cylinder 421 so as to be able to move back and forth. The tip of the piston rod 422 is connected to a cross member 410 attached to the back side of the lower end of the multiple solar power panels 2A, 2B, 2C. The tip of the piston rod 422 is rotatably mounted to the cross member 410. The rotation of the tip of the piston rod 422 is linked to the variable elevation angle of the solar panels 2A, 2B, and 2C. In this example, the cross member 410 is positioned between the side members 408A and 408B on the back side of the solar panel 2B. The support members 405 and 406 in this example consist of first members 405A and 406A, second members 405B and 406B, and brackets 405C and 406C. The first members 405A and 406A extend vertically from the upper surface of the rotating base 404. The second members 405B and 406B extend inclined upward from the upper surface of the rotating base 404, approaching the upper ends of the first members 405A and 406A as they extend upward. The brackets 405C and 406C are connected to the tips of the first members 405A and 406A and the tips of the second members 405B and 406B. Brackets 405C and 406C are connected to side members 408A and 408B such that side members 408A and 408B can swing freely relative to brackets 405C and 406C. In this example, the plate-shaped brackets 405C and 406C are arranged to sandwich the sides of side members 408A and 408B. The motor is the power source that moves the piston rod 422 forward and backward.The second tracking mechanism 42 causes the piston rod 422 to move back and forth within the cylinder 421 based on signals from the sensor 45, which will be described later. As the piston rod 422 moves back and forth, the side members 408A and 408B swing relative to the brackets 405C and 406C, thereby changing the elevation angles of the multiple solar panels 2A, 2B, and 2C relative to the fixed base 401.

[0062] [Sensor] Sensor 45 detects the direction of the sun and outputs a signal indicating the direction of the sun. The first tracking mechanism 41 and the second tracking mechanism 42 are driven by motors controlled based on the signal from sensor 45.

[0063] The configuration of the mounting frame 40 is not limited to the configuration in this example; any other configuration is acceptable as long as it can support multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C in a way that allows them to track the sun.

[0064] ≪Metal pipe≫ As shown in Figure 2, the metal tubes 5A, 5B, and 5C are provided on each of the multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C. Fluid flows through the metal tubes 5A, 5B, and 5C. As shown in Figure 4, the metal tube 5 is fixed to the outer surface 22b of the base plate 22 so as to pass through positions corresponding to the arrangement positions of the multiple power generation elements 25. When the base plate 22 is viewed from above, the metal tube 5 is positioned so as to overlap the multiple power generation elements 25. The fluid flowing through the metal tube 5 is heated by solar heat focused by each lens 24. The metal forming the metal tube 5 is, for example, aluminum or copper, or an alloy of either. In this example, the metal tube 5 is made of copper.

[0065] Each metal pipe 5A, 5B, and 5C may be meandering, as shown in Figure 2. The meandering metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C can easily pass through positions corresponding to the arrangement positions of the multiple power generation elements 25 in each photovoltaic panel 2A, 2B, and 2C. In this example, each metal pipe 5A, 5B, and 5C is arranged to fold back over almost the entire width of each photovoltaic panel 2A, 2B, and 2C. Each metal pipe 5A, 5B, and 5C has one inlet and one outlet. When multiple photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, and 2C are arranged in parallel, the outlet of metal pipe 5A and the inlet of metal pipe 5B are connected at connection part 6A, and the outlet of metal pipe 5B and the inlet of metal pipe 5C are connected at connection part 6B. When multiple photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, and 2C are arranged in parallel, a series of flow paths are formed by the metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C. The fluid introduced through the inlet of metal pipe 5A flows sequentially through metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C, and is discharged from the outlet of metal pipe 5C.

[0066] The arrangement of metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C shown in Figure 2 requires two types of solar panels. The first is as shown in solar panels 2A and 2C in Figure 2, where the open ends of metal pipes 5A and 5C are located at the top left and bottom right when viewed from the back of solar panels 2A and 2C. The second is as shown in solar panel 2B in Figure 2, where the open end of metal pipe 5B is located at the top right and bottom left when viewed from the back of solar panel 2B. The arrangement of metal pipes 5A and 5B is symmetrical between adjacent solar panels 2A and 2B. The arrangement of metal pipes 5B and 5C is symmetrical between adjacent solar panels 2B and 2C. Depending on the arrangement of metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C, it is also possible to use all solar panels of the same type.

[0067] The metal pipe 5 is welded to the outer surface 22b, for example. When the metal pipe 5 is welded to the outer surface 22b, the metal pipe 5 and the outer surface 22b are easily and firmly fixed together. Welding includes fusion welding, pressure welding, and brazing. Fusion welding is a method of locally melting and joining metals. Pressure welding is a method of joining metals by applying pressure to a heated joint. Brazing is a method of joining metals without melting the base metals to be joined, by melting a metal with a lower melting point than the base metal into the gap at the joint and using capillary action to penetrate the gap and join the metals. In the case of brazing, since the constituent metals of the metal pipe 5 and the bottom plate 22 are not melted, it is less likely to damage the metal pipe 5 and the bottom plate 22.

[0068] The metal tube 5 may be fixed to the outer surface 22b with a fixing member 7, as shown in Figure 6. In this case, the thermal conductivity of the fixing member 7 is, for example, 0.1 W / m·K or higher. Using the fixing member 7 makes it easy to fix the metal tube 5 to the outer surface 22b. If the thermal conductivity of the fixing member 7 is 0.1 W / m·K or higher, heat is easily transferred from the bottom plate 22 to the metal tube 5. The fixing member 7 is, for example, double-sided tape. Using double-sided tape makes it easy to fix the metal tube 5 to the outer surface 22b.

[0069] As shown in Figure 4, the metal tube 5 may have a flat surface 55 facing the outer surface 22b. If the flat surface 55 of the metal tube 5 is fixed to the outer surface 22b, the metal tube 5 and the outer surface 22b are in surface contact, making it easy to transfer heat from the bottom plate 22 to the metal tube 5. The cross-sectional shape of the metal tube 5 having a flat surface 55 may be, for example, a square or a triangle. The cross-sectional shape of the metal tube 5 may also be circular. The outer surface 22b may have a recess corresponding to the outer shape of the metal tube 5, although this is not shown. If the outer surface 22b has a recess, even if the cross-sectional shape of the metal tube 5 is circular, the outer surface 22b of the metal tube 5 and the inner surface of the recess are in surface contact, making it easy to transfer heat from the bottom plate 22 to the metal tube 5.

[0070] As shown in Figure 2, adjacent metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C are connected by connectors 6A and 6B. The connectors 6A and 6B allow adjacent metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C to be easily connected to each other. Using connectors 6A and 6B makes it easier to connect adjacent metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C when assembling multiple solar panels 2A, 2B, and 2C at the installation site. Connector 6A connects metal pipe 5A to metal pipe 5B. Connector 6B connects metal pipe 5B to metal pipe 5C. Connectors 6A and 6B are formed from, for example, a metal material. Connectors 6A and 6B made of a metal material are resistant to corrosion even when exposed to the external environment. The metal forming connectors 6A and 6B is, for example, aluminum or copper, or an alloy of either. Known configurations can be used for connectors 6A and 6B. Connectors 6A and 6B may also be made from a resin material. The connecting parts 6A and 6B may be a combination of a part made of metal and a part made of resin. If the connecting parts 6A and 6B are made of resin, the metal pipes 5 connected by the connecting parts 6A and 6B can be electrically insulated from each other.

[0071] In the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1 of the present invention, as shown in Figure 5, the bottom plate 22 made of a metal material is grounded, and therefore the metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C fixed to the outer surface 22b of the bottom plate 22 are also grounded. Because each of the metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C is grounded, it is difficult for large currents to flow through the metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C, and the power output of the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1 is not easily reduced. In addition, even if any of the multiple photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, and 2C are short-circuited, high voltage will not be applied to the bottom plate 22 and the metal pipes 5, so there is no risk of electric shock.

[0072] ≪Insulation Material≫ The metal pipe 5 may be covered with an insulating material 8, as shown in Figure 7. If the metal pipe 5 is covered with an insulating material 8, heat radiation from the fluid heated by solar energy can be suppressed. The constituent materials of the insulating material 8 are, for example, expanded polystyrene, expanded polyurethane, expanded polyethylene, or expanded polypropylene. The constituent materials of the insulating material 8 may also be glass wool or rock wool.

[0073] <Solar thermal water storage system> The solar thermal hot water storage system of the present invention stores the hot water generated by the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1 described above. There are, for example, three forms for storing the hot water generated by the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1. In Figure 8 showing Embodiment 1, Figure 9 showing Embodiment 2, and Figure 10 showing Embodiment 3, the metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C, which are components of the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1, are shown in a simplified manner to make the fluid flow easier to understand. In Figures 8, 9, and 10, other components that are not related to the fluid flow are not shown.

[0074] <Embodiment 1> The solar thermal hot water storage system 100 shown in Figure 8 comprises a concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1, a first tank 110, a supply pipe 120, a discharge pipe 130, and a pump 140. Fluid is stored in the first tank 110. The supply pipe 120 connects the first end 51 of a plurality of metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C, which are connected in a series by connection parts 6A and 6B, to the first tank 110. The first end 51 is the inlet of metal pipe 5A. The discharge pipe 130 connects the second end 52 of a plurality of metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C, which are connected in a series by connection parts 6A and 6B, to the first tank 110. The second end 52 is the outlet of metal pipe 5C. The pump 140 is located in the middle of the supply pipe 120. Pump 140 circulates the fluid in the following order: first tank 110, supply pipe 120, metal pipes 5A, 5B, 5C, discharge pipe 130, and back to the first tank 110. The power to drive pump 140 can be generated using sunlight by the solar panels 2A, 2B, 2C of the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1. Of course, pump 140 may also be driven by commercial power. This is the same in Embodiments 2 and 3.

[0075] The supply pipe 120 and discharge pipe 130 may have a bendable portion 190 that can follow the movement of the multiple photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, 2C. The supply pipe 120 and discharge pipe 130 having the bendable portion 190 are flexible. The supply pipe 120 and discharge pipe 130 may be flexible overall or partially. The supply pipe 120 and discharge pipe 130 shown in Figure 8 are flexible overall. In this example, the bendable portion 190 is formed of a rubber tube. The bendable portion 190 may also be formed of a flexible metal tube. Of the supply pipe 120 and discharge pipe 130, the region close to the photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, 2C is arranged, for example, along the multiple photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, 2C and the mounting frame 40. The multiple photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, 2C track the sun by the drive mechanism 4 shown in Figure 2. If the supply pipe 120 and the discharge pipe 130 can freely follow the movement of multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C, the multiple solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C can easily track the sun without their movement being restricted by the supply pipe 120 and the discharge pipe 130.

[0076] In Embodiment 1, the fluid is water. The arrows shown in Figure 8 indicate the direction of water flow. Since the water circulates between the first tank 110 and the metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C, hot water heated by solar energy in the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1 can always be stored in the first tank 110. In the first embodiment, the hot water in the first tank 110 can be used.

[0077] <<Embodiment 2>> The solar thermal hot water storage system 200 shown in Figure 9 comprises a concentrating photovoltaic power generation device 1, a supply source 210, a second tank 220, a supply pipe 120, a discharge pipe 130, and a pump 240. The supply source 210 supplies a low-temperature fluid. The supply source 210 may be a tank in which the low-temperature fluid is stored, or a pipe through which the low-temperature fluid flows. The pipe through which the low-temperature fluid flows includes a water pipe. The second tank 220 stores a high-temperature fluid. The high-temperature fluid is hot water heated by solar heat in the concentrating photovoltaic power generation device 1. The second tank 220 may be a container for immediate use of the solar-heated fluid, such as a bathtub. The supply pipe 120 connects the first end 51 of a plurality of metal pipes 5A, 5B, 5C, which are connected in series at connection parts 6A, 6B, to the supply source 210. The discharge pipe 130 connects the second end 52 of the multiple metal pipes 5A, 5B, 5C, which are connected in a series at connection points 6A, 6B, to the second tank 220. The supply pipe 120 and the discharge pipe 130 may have a bend 190 that can follow the movement of the multiple photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, 2C, similar to the supply pipe 120 and the discharge pipe 130 of Embodiment 1. The pump 240 pumps a low-temperature fluid from the supply source 210 to the metal pipes 5A, 5B, 5C. The power to drive the pump 240 can be generated using sunlight by the photovoltaic panels 2A, 2B, 2C of the concentrated photovoltaic power generation device 1.

[0078] In Embodiment 2, the fluid is water. The arrows shown in Figure 9 indicate the direction of water flow. In Embodiment 2, the hot water stored in the second tank 220 can be used immediately.

[0079] <Embodiment 3> The solar thermal hot water storage system 300 shown in Figure 10 comprises a concentrating photovoltaic power generation device 1, a first tank 110, a supply pipe 120, a discharge pipe 130, and a pump 140. The configuration of the first tank 110, the supply pipe 120, the discharge pipe 130, and the pump 140 is the same as in Embodiment 1. In Figure 10, for the sake of explanation, the supply pipe 120 and the discharge pipe 130 are shown in a straight line. In Embodiment 3, the fluid flowing through the metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C of the concentrating photovoltaic power generation device 1 is antifreeze. In Embodiment 3, the antifreeze is circulated between the first tank 110 and the metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C.

[0080] The solar thermal hot water storage system 300 shown in Figure 10 further comprises a third tank 330 and a heat exchanger 350. Water is stored in the third tank 330. The heat exchanger 350 performs heat exchange between the antifreeze flowing through the discharge pipe 130 and the water. In this example, a pipe 340 is connected to the third tank 330. The water circulates between the third tank 330 and the pipe 340. The thin arrows in Figure 10 indicate the direction of antifreeze flow. The thick arrows in Figure 10 indicate the direction of water flow. The heat exchanger 350 performs heat exchange between the antifreeze flowing through the discharge pipe 130 and the water flowing through the pipe 340. Since the antifreeze does not freeze at ambient temperature, it can be heated by solar heat regardless of ambient temperature. When the fluid is antifreeze, by heating the water with the heat exchanger 350, hot water that is safe for people to drink, such as for baths and showers, can be obtained. In Embodiment 3, the hot water in the third tank 330 can be used.

[0081] With the aforementioned concentrated solar power generation system 1, a complete set of control devices, including three solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C each equipped with metal pipes 5A, 5B, and 5C, a mounting frame 40, 200 liters of water, a control device for the concentrated solar power generation system 1, and a solar thermal hot water storage system 100, can be loaded onto a vehicle. The control device is, for example, a laptop computer. For example, the above set can be transported by a light truck with a maximum load capacity of 350 kg. If the above set can be loaded onto a vehicle, it can be transported to disaster-stricken areas such as those affected by earthquakes, and the solar power generation panels 2A, 2B, and 2C can be assembled on-site to supply hot water for daily use, such as baths and showers. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0082] 1. Concentrated solar power generation system 2, 2A, 2B, 2C Solar power generation panels 20 Enclosure, 21 Frame, 22 Bottom plate, 22a Interior, 22b Exterior, 23 Top plate 24 Lenses, 25 Power generation elements 26 Insulating material, 27 Wiring material, 28 Secondary lens 29 Ground wire 4. Drive mechanism 40 mounting units 401 Fixed base, 403 Shaft section, 404 Rotating base 405,406 Support Members 405A, 406A First component, 405B, 406B Second component 405C, 406C Bracket 408A, 408B Side Member 409A, 409B, 410 Cross Member 41 First tracking mechanism, 42 Second tracking mechanism 421 Cylinder, 422 Piston rod 45 sensors 5,5A,5B,5C metal tube 51 first end, 52 second end, 55 flat surface 6A, 6B connection section 7 Fixing members, 8 Insulation material 100, 200, 300 Solar thermal water storage systems 110 First tank, 120 Supply pipe, 130 Discharge pipe, 140 Pump 190 Bending section 210 supply source, 220 second tank, 240 pump 330 Third tank, 340 Piping, 350 Heat exchanger

Claims

1. Multiple solar panels arranged in parallel, A drive mechanism for tracking the multiple solar power generation panels to the sun, Each of the aforementioned plurality of solar power generation panels is provided with a metal pipe through which fluid flows, It comprises a connecting part that connects adjacent metal pipes, Each of the aforementioned plurality of solar power generation panels is A housing having a frame, a base plate, and a plurality of lenses arranged facing the base plate, Multiple power generation elements arranged at the light-gathering positions of each of the multiple lenses on the inner surface of the bottom plate, The system comprises an insulating material disposed between the inner surface and each of the plurality of power generation elements, The metal tube is fixed to the outer surface of the bottom plate so as to pass through positions corresponding to the arrangement positions of the plurality of power generation elements on the outer surface of the bottom plate. Each of the aforementioned multiple solar power generation panels has a base plate made of a metal material and is grounded. Concentrated solar power generation device.

2. The concentrated photovoltaic power generation device according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of power generation elements is made of a compound semiconductor.

3. A concentrating solar power generation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the light concentration ratio is 100 times or more.

4. The concentrating solar power generation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the connecting portion is made of a metal material.

5. The concentrated photovoltaic power generation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the metal pipe is meandering.

6. The concentrated photovoltaic power generation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the metal pipe is welded to the outer surface.

7. The concentrating solar power generation device according to claim 6, wherein the metal pipe is brazed to the outer surface.

8. The metal tube is fixed to the outer surface by a fixing member. The concentrated photovoltaic power generation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the thermal conductivity of the fixing member is 0.1 W / m·K or more.

9. The concentrating solar power generation device according to claim 8, wherein the fixing member is double-sided tape.

10. The concentrating solar power generation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the metal pipe has a flat surface facing the outer surface.

11. The concentrated photovoltaic power generation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising an insulating material covering each of the aforementioned metal pipes.

12. A concentrated solar power generation device according to claim 1, A first tank in which the aforementioned fluid is stored, A supply pipe connecting the first ends of the multiple metal pipes connected in a series at the aforementioned connection point to the first tank, A discharge pipe connecting the second end of a plurality of metal pipes connected in a series at the aforementioned connection point to the first tank, The system comprises the first tank, the supply pipe, the metal pipe, the discharge pipe, and a pump that circulates the fluid in that order through the first tank, Solar thermal water storage system.

13. A concentrated solar power generation device according to claim 1, A source of the low-temperature fluid, A second tank for storing the high-temperature fluid, A supply pipe connecting the first ends of a plurality of metal pipes connected in a series at the aforementioned connection point to the supply source, A discharge pipe connecting the second end of a plurality of metal pipes connected in a series at the aforementioned connection point to the second tank, The system comprises a pump that pumps the low-temperature fluid from the supply source into the metal pipe, Solar thermal water storage system.

14. The fluid is an antifreeze, The third tank where water is stored, A solar thermal hot water storage system according to claim 12 or claim 13, further comprising a heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the fluid flowing through the discharge pipe and the water.

15. The solar thermal hot water storage system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the supply pipe and the discharge pipe have a bend that can follow the movement of the plurality of solar power generation panels.

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