Scored Sheet Solar Reflector with Self-Supporting Curved Ribs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar reflector technologies require sophisticated fabrication processes and skilled labor to create efficient, pre-defined curved surface reflectors for concentrating solar radiation, which increases costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A method for forming a simple, self-supporting solar reflector using a flexible reflective sheet material scored with curved bend lines to create sections that can be easily transformed into a curved surface structure with integral ribs, allowing for onsite assembly with minimal tools and labor, and secured with a backing sheet for enhanced rigidity and reflectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional sophisticated fabrication processes are used to create pre-defined curved surface reflectors, then the reflector achieves efficient solar radiation concentration, but the fabrication cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining the curved surface geometry through scored bend lines on flat reflective sheets before deployment. The score lines are pre-calculated to create the exact parabolic or trough curvature needed, eliminating the need for complex on-site forming operations while ensuring precise geometric accuracy for solar concentration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the curved surface reflector into multiple flat panel sections, each with pre-scored bend lines. These segmented panels can be independently fabricated, transported, and assembled on-site to form the complete curved reflector surface, reducing fabrication complexity while maintaining overall precision
2Manufacturing precision
If skilled labor and sophisticated tools are used for reflector fabrication, then the curved surface quality and efficiency are improved, but the labor cost and skill requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex geometric calculations and precision markings are performed in advance during manufacturing, converting skilled labor requirements into automated or semi-automated pre-processing steps. The field installation requires only simple assembly operations that can be performed by unskilled workers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses template patterns and scoring guides that can be replicated across multiple panels. Once the precise bend line patterns are established for a given reflector design, they can be copied to numerous panels, standardizing the fabrication process and eliminating the need for skilled craftsmen at each installation site
3Ease of operation
If flat reflective sheets are used without pre-formed curvature, then the ease of transport and installation is improved, but the ability to concentrate solar radiation efficiently is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The precise curvature geometry is pre-defined through scoring operations on the flat sheets before transport. The score lines encode the required three-dimensional form, allowing the flat sheets to be accurately transformed into curved surfaces on-site through simple bending operations that maintain optical precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms flat reflective surfaces into curved configurations through pre-scored bend lines that guide the formation of parabolic or trough curvatures. This allows the reflector to achieve the necessary spherical or parabolic geometry for efficient solar concentration while maintaining the logistical advantages of flat sheet transport and storage
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
Enables the cost-effective and straightforward onsite fabrication of solar reflectors with a pre-defined arc of reflection, concentrating solar radiation along a line of focus, suitable for various solar energy collection systems, including those in remote locations with limited resources.
Implementation Method 1
A method for forming a simple, self-supporting solar reflector using a flexible reflective sheet material scored with curved bend lines to create sections that can be easily transformed into a curved surface structure with integral ribs
Data Source
AI summary
A curved surface structure for reflecting solar light, heat or electromagnetic radiation is made by scoring two opposing pairs of curved bend lines along one pair of opposing edges of a sheet of bendable material, dividing it into a center section joined by curved bend lines to curved ribs, joined by curved bend lines to respective curved edges; bending the curved ribs down and curved edges up along the bend lines to nominally right angles to form a curved surface supported by two curved ribs and two curved edges. Two straight ribs and respective straight edges may be scored and formed on the other pair of opposing edges of the sheet. A backside sheet may be applied to the four edges. A widthwise corrugated, elongate right angle reinforcement member may be employed for strengthening the formed bend lines.