Dual-Axis Solar Collector With Multi-Stage Light Concentration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar energy collecting devices are inefficient due to single axis tracking and limited concentration of solar energy, resulting in suboptimal energy collection throughout the day and year.
Innovation Solution
A double axis-tracking solar collector system utilizing a parabolic mirror, double convex lens, and multiple secondary mirrors to concentrate solar energy onto a smaller target area, with a tracking system to adjust for sun movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If single axis tracking is used in solar collecting devices, then the device complexity is reduced, but the energy collection efficiency deteriorates throughout the day and year
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dual-axis tracking system that dynamically adjusts the orientation of the parabolic mirror and lens assembly in two independent directions (azimuth and elevation angles) to follow the sun's movement throughout the day and across different seasons, maximizing solar energy capture efficiency
2Device complexity
If a single diversion system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the solar energy concentration is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the solar energy collection system into multiple functional segments: a parabolic mirror for initial concentration, a lens for further focusing, and multiple secondary mirrors arranged in a linear array that create multiple diversion paths, collectively achieving 100-fold energy concentration at the target
3Quantity of substance
If large quantities of solar energy are collected, then the energy production is increased, but the system size becomes extremely large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical components with complementary functions (parabolic mirror for reflection, convex lens for refraction, secondary mirrors for additional reflection) to achieve high energy concentration in a compact configuration, maximizing energy density per unit area
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 achieves a 100-fold concentration of solar energy compared to natural sunlight, enabling efficient energy collection and utilization for heating or electricity generation.
Implementation Method 1
a parabolic mirror extending longitudinally along and straddling a central plane. The parabolic mirror is configured to direct received sunlight towards a focal line contained within the central plane
Implementation Method 2
A lens (e.g. a double convex lens, or one or more plano-convex rectangular cylinder lenses) is positioned along the focal line configured to receive reflected sunlight from the parabolic mirror
Implementation Method 3
At least one secondary mirror (e.g. planar, paraboloid, or parabolic mirror) is adapted to receive directed sunlight from the lens and to reflect the directed sunlight at a target
Data Source
AI summary
A solar collector apparatus includes a parabolic mirror configured to direct solar energy through a double convex lens and towards a linear set of secondary mirrors, each of the secondary mirrors positioned to direct the solar energy towards a solar collection target. The subsequent diversion achieved by the solar collector apparatus allows collection of solar energy several times denser than natural sunlight, and can be captured using a substantially compact system.