Curved Reflector Focal Length Control for Real-Time Solar Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional curved reflectors in heliostat systems face inefficiency due to changes in focal length as the light source moves, causing focused energy to be wasted by being concentrated either in front of or behind the target tower.
Innovation Solution
An energy generation system with curved reflectors equipped with an actuation unit that adjusts the curvature of the reflector to maintain the focal point at the tower, using sensors to monitor light source and reflector data for real-time adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the curved reflector pivots to track the light source, then the reflector can follow the movement of the light source, but the focal length changes causing the focal point to move away from the tower
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the curvature of the reflector adjustable rather than fixed. The actuation unit changes the curvature radius of the curved reflector in real-time based on the position of the light source, allowing the system to adapt dynamically while maintaining focal point accuracy at the tower location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of curvature radius of the reflector. By adjusting the curvature radius according to the light source position, the system maintains the focal length relationship needed to keep the focal point at the tower, resolving the contradiction between tracking and focal accuracy.
2Device complexity
If the focal length is fixed, then the curved reflector structure is simple, but the focused energy is wasted when the light source moves
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static fixed focal length design to a dynamic adjustable curvature design. The actuation unit enables real-time modification of the reflector curvature, ensuring energy concentration at the tower while maintaining relatively simple overall system architecture.
3Device complexity
If the curved reflector only pivots without adjusting curvature, then the mechanism is simple, but the focal point location becomes inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a curvature adjustment mechanism (actuation unit) that works in conjunction with the pivoting mechanism. This dynamic adjustment capability enables precise focal point positioning at the tower while maintaining a relatively simple combined mechanism structure.
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
Ensures that the reflected light is concentrated at the tower, maximizing energy production by maintaining the focal point at the optimal location, thereby increasing energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The curved body can reflect the light from the light source to concentrate it onto the tower
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus to control a focal length of a curved reflector in real time. An energy generation system includes curved reflectors, a tower, and an energy storing unit connected to the tower. The curved reflectors reflect and concentrate light from a light source onto the tower. The tower converts the received light into usable energy which is stored in the energy storing unit. Each of the curved reflectors can include a curved body, a stand, and/or an actuation unit. The curved body reflects the light from the light source to concentrate it onto the tower. When the light source moves, the curved body pivots about the stand to track the light source. The actuation unit is activated to adjust a focal length of the focal point of the curved body to ensure that the reflected light is concentrated at the tower.