Opposing-Row Linear Concentrator Layout for Balanced Solar Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar concentrator arrays face challenges with weight distribution and optical efficiency due to the offset center of gravity, leading to moments during rotation and inefficient light transmission, which are typically addressed with counterweights increasing system weight and cost.
Innovation Solution
The solar concentrator assembly is designed with vertically offset concentrator elements and a torque tube positioned between them, aligning the center of gravity with the axis of rotation and optimizing the angle of light incidence to reduce scattering and transmission losses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If concentrator elements are arranged in a traditional single-row configuration above the lateral member, then the aperture-to-ground-area ratio is increased, but the center of gravity is offset from the axis of rotation causing undesirable moments during rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a traditional single-row horizontal arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration with two opposing rows positioned at different vertical heights. This dimensional change allows the center of gravity to be aligned with the axis of rotation while maintaining high aperture-to-ground-area ratio, resolving the contradiction between productivity and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric vertical positioning of the two rows at different heights above the lateral member. This asymmetric arrangement, combined with the opposing row configuration, enables precise center of gravity alignment with the rotation axis, eliminating the stability issue while preserving the high aperture ratio.
2Stability of the object's composition
If counterweights are added to offset the center of gravity, then the moment during rotation is reduced, but the overall weight and cost of the system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the need for counterweights by reconfiguring the concentrator element arrangement. The opposing rows at different heights inherently balance the center of gravity with the rotation axis, removing the harmful counterweight component while maintaining rotational stability and reducing overall system weight.
3Productivity
If dense concentrator elements are used to maximize ground coverage, then the aperture-to-ground-area ratio is increased, but light transmission efficiency and power conversion are reduced due to scattering losses
Solution Approach 1:
By arranging concentrator elements in two opposing rows at different vertical heights, the patent creates three-dimensional light pathways that reduce scattering losses. This spatial separation in the vertical dimension allows dense packing while maintaining optimal light transmission angles and reducing interference between adjacent elements.
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
This configuration minimizes moments and weight, enhances optical efficiency by ensuring even light distribution and reducing the need for counterweights, thereby improving alignment and power conversion efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first reflective device having a first reflective front side and a first rear side, a second reflective device having a second reflective front side and a second rear side
Data Source
AI summary
A solar concentrator assembly is disclosed. The solar concentrator assembly comprises a first reflective device having a first reflective front side and a first rear side, a second reflective device having a second reflective front side and a second rear side, the second reflective device positioned such that the first reflective front side faces the second rear side, and a support assembly coupled to and supporting the first and second reflective devices, the second reflective device positioned to be vertically offset from the first reflective device.