Dual-Trough Solar Collector Frame to Minimize Reflector Shadowing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) systems face challenges in achieving commercial success due to high costs, increased system complexity, and reduced optical-to-electrical efficiency compared to non-concentrating PV systems, largely because they require additional structures like mirrors and lenses and are limited in utilizing available light.
Innovation Solution
A dual trough concentrating solar photovoltaic module design featuring reflector panels supported by a structure forming adjacent troughs with reflective side walls, a closed truss framework positioned behind the reflectors to avoid shading, and solar receivers located at the edges to receive concentrated sunlight, allowing for efficient sunlight concentration and reduced material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If additional structures like mirrors and lenses are used in CPV systems, then sunlight concentration is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex mirror and lens structures from traditional CPV systems, replacing them with a simplified flat plate design that uses selective surface absorption. This removes the harmful complexity while preserving the core function of concentrating solar energy conversion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical optical system (mirrors and lenses) with a thermal field system using selective absorption surfaces. This substitution eliminates the need for precise mechanical alignment and complex optical components while achieving comparable or superior energy conversion efficiency.
2Use of energy by moving object
If additional structures like mirrors and lenses are used in CPV systems, then sunlight concentration is improved, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive flat plate structures with selective surface coatings instead of expensive precision optical components. These simpler components are easier to manufacture at scale and can be replaced more economically, significantly reducing production costs while maintaining effective solar energy concentration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the solar collector design from complex optical geometries to simple planar structures with engineered surface properties. This parameter change enables mass production using conventional manufacturing techniques, dramatically reducing cost while preserving functional performance.
3Use of energy by moving object
If traditional CPV structures are used, then sunlight concentration is achieved, but shadowing effects reduce optical efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the shadow-causing structural elements (mounting frames, support structures) that are necessary in traditional CPV systems. The simplified flat plate design eliminates these harmful shadows, allowing maximum sunlight exposure and optimal optical efficiency throughout the day.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from three-dimensional complex optical structures that cast shadows to two-dimensional flat plate structures with minimal profile. This dimensional simplification eliminates shadowing problems while maintaining the ability to concentrate and convert solar energy effectively.
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 design enhances optical efficiency, reduces material costs, and simplifies the system by minimizing shadowing effects on solar cells, leading to improved energy conversion efficiency and lower production costs.
Implementation Method 1
each trough having a base, a pair of reflective side walls and a trough aperture suitable for receiving incident sunlight
Implementation Method 2
The highest cost components of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system are the solar cells that convert sunlight to electricity by the photoelectric effect
Data Source
AI summary
A solar energy collector suitable for use in a solar energy collection system that tracks movements of the sun along at least one axis may have a plurality of reflector panels, a support structure that supports the reflector panels in a manner that defines a pair of adjacent reflector troughs, each trough having a base, a pair of reflective side walls and a trough aperture suitable for receiving incident sunlight during operation of the solar energy collection system, a frame that is coupled to the support structure near the bases of the troughs to define a closed reflector support truss framework in cooperation with the support structure, wherein the reflector support truss framework is positioned behind the reflector troughs such that the reflector support truss framework does not shadow the reflector panels during normal operation of the solar energy collector, and a plurality of solar receivers.