Graded Index Waveguide Optical Concentrator with Spaced Reflectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar concentrators face limitations in optical efficiency due to their field of view, leading to restricted concentration factors and increased costs with dual-axis tracking systems, while waveguide solar concentrators suffer from light losses due to interactions with reflective elements and Fresnel reflections.
Innovation Solution
A waveguide-based optical concentration/diffusion system with a graded index material that causes light to follow a curved path, using planar interfaces with strategically spaced reflectors to minimize interactions and enhance light redirection, and coupling elements like lenses or mirrors to focus or diffuse light efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple reflective components are used in a waveguide solar concentrator to redirect light, then the concentration factor is improved, but light losses increase due to undesired reflections and interactions with the reflective elements
Solution Approach 1:
A gradient index (GRIN) rod lens is introduced as an intermediary optical element between the cylindrical lens and the waveguide. This GRIN rod lens acts as a mediator that transforms the focused light from the cylindrical lens into a form that can be efficiently coupled into the waveguide with minimal losses, while still achieving the desired concentration factor through the reflective components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the system by introducing a gradient index material with a specific refractive index profile. This parameter change allows for better control of light propagation within the waveguide, reducing undesired reflections and improving the overall optical efficiency while maintaining the concentration function.
2Device complexity
If a stationary solar concentrator is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the field of view is restricted limiting the concentration factor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic tracking capability to the solar concentrator system. By incorporating sun tracking mechanisms that adjust the orientation of the cylindrical lens and/or waveguide, the system can dynamically follow the sun's movement across the sky, thereby expanding the effective field of view and increasing the concentration factor without requiring a completely complex redesign of the basic optical structure.
3Productivity
If dual-axis tracking systems are used to increase the field of view and concentration factor, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the tracking function into simpler, more manageable components. Rather than requiring a complete dual-axis tracking system, the invention divides the optical path into distinct segments (cylindrical lens, GRIN rod lens, waveguide) where tracking can be implemented in a simplified manner, potentially using single-axis tracking or even fixed mounting with optimized optical geometry, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining productivity.
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 higher concentration factors and reduced light losses by controlling light propagation within the waveguide, allowing for more efficient energy collection and distribution, potentially reducing the need for costly dual-axis tracking and enhancing overall optical efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The waveguide uses a material that has a graded index in a first direction that causes light propagating in the waveguide along a second direction different from the first direction to follow a curved path
Implementation Method 2
the light is reflected at multiple intervals by a planar interface of the waveguide
Implementation Method 3
Located along the planar interface are a plurality of reflectors that receive light coupled into the waveguide and redirect it towards at least one exit aperture
Data Source
AI summary
An optical concentration/diffusion apparatus and method is provided that uses a waveguide having a graded index of refraction in a first direction. Light propagating in a second direction different from the first direction follows a curved, path being reflected at multiple intervals by a planar interface of the waveguide. Reflectors are located along the planar interface at a spacing that is selected to limit their interaction with the light propagating in the second direction. Coupling elements are located in optical communication with the reflectors. When used as a concentrator, light is focused by the elements onto the reflectors and redirected in the second direction towards one or more exit apertures. When used as a diffuser, light in the second direction is redirected by the reflectors toward the elements and diffused at multiple exit apertures.