Concentrated solar power generation system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar power generation systems have low efficiency, poor utilization rates, and high costs due to inefficient use of solar energy.
Innovation Solution
A concentrated solar power generation system comprising a movable platform with a Fresnel lens, heat collection tubes, a reflector with a tapered surface, and a support base, where sunlight is focused onto the reflector to heat water, which is then used to generate steam for electricity production, incorporating a waste heat recovery device to enhance efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional solar power generation methods are used, then solar energy can be utilized, but the generation efficiency is poor and utilization rate is low
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the solar energy conversion process into distinct functional components: Fresnel lens for light concentration, reflector for directional reflection, and heat collection tubes for thermal energy capture. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall conversion efficiency while reducing energy losses through targeted design improvements in each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional flat or simple curved solar collectors to a three-dimensional concentrated system using Fresnel lenses and tapered reflectors. This dimensional change enables much higher energy density and concentration ratios, dramatically improving generation efficiency by focusing solar energy onto small target areas where it can be most effectively converted to useful thermal energy.
2Productivity
If conventional solar power generation systems are used, then solar energy conversion can be achieved, but the cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs relatively simple and inexpensive components such as acrylic Fresnel lenses, standard reflective materials, and conventional heat exchange tubes. These components can be manufactured using existing industrial processes and materials, avoiding the need for expensive specialized components. The modular design allows for easy assembly and replacement, reducing both initial manufacturing costs and long-term maintenance expenses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes key parameters such as the focal length of the Fresnel lens, the angle of the tapered reflector, and the spacing of heat collection tubes to achieve maximum energy conversion efficiency with minimal material input. By carefully selecting and adjusting these parameters, the system achieves high performance using standard, cost-effective materials and designs rather than requiring expensive specialized components.
3Device complexity
If simple solar heating structures are used, then the structure is simple, but the energy concentration and heating efficiency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a nested arrangement where the reflector is positioned inside the circular array of heat collection tubes, and the Fresnel lens is positioned above the reflector. This nested configuration allows multiple components to work together in a compact space, achieving high energy concentration without requiring a large or complex structure. The nested design maximizes the use of available space and ensures efficient energy transfer from the lens through the reflector to the heat collection tubes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively utilizes thermal energy from sunlight to heat water and generate steam, improving energy conversion efficiency and reducing costs by utilizing waste heat, thereby addressing the inefficiencies and high costs of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
a Fresnel lens located in the groove of the movable platform; a light passes through the Fresnel lens and irradiates the reflector
Implementation Method 2
a reflector with a tapered surface; a light passes through the Fresnel lens and irradiates the reflector
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of heat collection tubes arranged in a circular array; the upper end of each of the heat collection tubes is in contact with the water circulation pipe
Implementation Method 4
the header has a water circulation pipe, an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe; the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe each are communicated to the water circulation pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A concentrated solar power generation system includes a movable platform having a groove, a Fresnel lens located in the groove of the movable platform, a header located below the Fresnel lens, a plurality of heat collection tubes arranged in a circular array, a reflector with a tapered surface, and a support base. The header has a water circulation pipe, an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe. The inlet pipe and the outlet pipe each are communicated to the water circulation pipe. A lower end of each of the heat collection tubes is fixed on the support seat, and an upper end of each of the heat collection tubes contacts the water circulation pipe. The reflector is mounted on the support base and located in a space enclosed by the heat collection tubes.