Detection method for measuring profile accuracy of parabolic trough reflectors and detection device thereof

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting the profile accuracy of parabolic trough reflectors are limited to factory settings, cannot be performed on-site, and require expensive, complex optical detection devices, making them impractical for final installation, operation, and maintenance.

Innovation Solution

A detection method and device using light sources to simulate the focal point of the parabolic reflector, measuring shape and position accuracy by analyzing reflected light, with a scale for intuitive results, and a foldable, extendable design for on-site use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing optical detection devices are used to measure parabolic reflector profile accuracy, then measurement precision can be achieved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprofile accuracy measurementVSAvoiddetection device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a light source to create a virtual image of the focal point through the parabolic reflector, and captures this light path with a camera. This optical copying method replaces complex mechanical measurement systems while maintaining measurement precision, as the light path itself serves as a precise geometric reference for evaluating the reflector's profile accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces traditional mechanical measurement systems with an optical-based detection approach. Instead of using mechanical probes or complex optical benches, the system uses light propagation and imaging to measure profile accuracy, significantly simplifying the device structure while maintaining measurement capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If factory-based detection methods are used, then measurement precision is maintained, but adaptability to on-site conditions is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesurface accuracy detectionVSAvoidon-site detection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The detection device is designed to be universally applicable in multiple settings - both factory environments and on-site installation locations. The portable design with simplified optical components allows the same device to perform accurate measurements in diverse conditions, eliminating the need for separate factory and field detection systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates adjustable components that allow adaptation to different measurement scenarios. The light source position and camera angle can be dynamically adjusted to suit various reflector sizes and installation conditions, enabling the device to maintain measurement precision whether in a controlled factory environment or variable on-site conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If traditional detection methods are used, then comprehensive performance evaluation is achieved, but ease of operation decreases due to complex setup procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance evaluation completenessVSAvoiddetection process simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses the parabolic reflector itself as part of the measurement apparatus. By projecting light through the focal point and capturing the reflected path, the reflector's own geometry serves as the measurement reference, eliminating the need for external calibration standards or complex setup procedures while maintaining comprehensive performance evaluation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables on-site detection of parabolic reflector accuracy, reducing costs and complexity, providing simple and accurate results for final installation and maintenance.

Implementation Method 1

using lights emitted by a light source to simulate lights emitted from a focal point of a parabolic reflector to be detected, and emitting onto the parabolic reflector to be detected

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Implementation Method 2

measuring a shape and a position accuracy of the parabolic reflector to be detected based on a deviation of a reflected light reflected by the parabolic reflector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS20260085859A1Detection method for measuring profile accuracy of parabolic trough reflectors and detection device thereof
Publication Date: 2026.03.26 HARBIN QINGYUFENG TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
  • US20260085859A1 patent drawing
  • US20260085859A1 patent drawing
  • US20260085859A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A measurement method and a measurement device for profile accuracy of parabolic trough reflector are provided, which solves the problem of existing technology relying on the final assembly plant for detection and the inability to detect on the final application site, as well as the high requirements of existing optical detection device for the plant. The method and device of the present disclosure use light emitted from a light source to simulate the light emitted from the focal point of a parabolic reflector to be detected, then emitting onto the parabolic reflector to be detected. The shape and position accuracy of the parabolic reflector to be detected are measured based on the deviation of the reflected light, and it no longer rely on the final assembly plant and can detect the final profile accuracy of parabolic reflectors on the application site or after regular operation, significantly reducing costs.