Opposing row linear concentrator architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar concentrator arrays face challenges due to an offset center of gravity, which creates undesirable moments during rotation, requiring counterweights that increase system weight and cost, and inefficient light transmission due to uneven light paths and steep angles of incidence.
Innovation Solution
The solar concentrator assembly positions the center of gravity along the axis of rotation by arranging concentrator elements with half facing one direction and half facing the opposite direction, with a torque tube between them, and vertically offsets elements to reduce light travel distance differences and incidence angles, thereby minimizing moments and optical transmission losses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If concentrator elements are arranged with all elements facing the same direction to optimize ground cover, then ground coverage efficiency is improved, but optical transmission efficiency deteriorates due to uneven light paths and steep angles of incidence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by arranging concentrator elements in opposing rows where elements in one row face opposite directions to elements in the other row. This asymmetric configuration allows elements to capture sunlight from different angles while maintaining efficient optical paths to the receiver, thereby improving optical transmission efficiency without sacrificing ground coverage efficiency.
2Strength
If the center of gravity is positioned above the post to support concentrator elements, then structural support is achieved, but undesirable moments are created during rotation requiring counterweights that increase system weight and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses asymmetric arrangement of concentrator elements in opposing rows, with elements in one row facing opposite directions to elements in the other row. This asymmetric configuration positions the center of gravity along the axis of rotation, eliminating the need for counterweights while maintaining structural support integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-sided concentrator arrangement to a dual-row opposing configuration, adding dimensional complexity to the structure. By distributing elements across two rows with opposite orientations, the system achieves balance along the rotation axis while maintaining structural support capabilities.
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 reduces system weight and cost by eliminating the need for counterweights, improves alignment efficiency, and enhances optical transmission efficiency by ensuring even sunlight distribution and reduced scattering.
Implementation Method 1
a first reflector facing in a first direction, a second reflector facing in a second direction
Data Source
AI summary
A solar concentrator assembly is disclosed. The solar concentrator assembly comprises a first reflector facing in a first direction, a second reflector facing in a second direction, the second direction opposite the first direction, and a rotational member having a long axis transverse to the first and second directions, the rotational member disposed between and coupled to each of the first and second reflectors.