Solar collector assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar collector systems are large, difficult to install, and maintain a precise shape, with limited protection from environmental factors like overheating and wind, which reduces their lifespan and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A solar collector assembly with a releasably fixed reflector assembly and integrated actuator module that allows for easy installation and operation, using ceramic or PTFE slide bearings for reduced friction and sand ingress, and includes sensors for temperature and vibration monitoring to adjust the reflector position and fluid flow for optimal energy capture and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If known parabola trough collectors are used, then solar radiation can be focused on the pipe, but the collectors are relatively large and require many efforts for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The solar collector is divided into modular components: a reflector assembly with integrated actuator that can be separately assembled and mounted onto the pipe. This segmentation allows for easier transportation, handling, and installation compared to traditional large-scale parabola trough collectors, while maintaining the solar focusing capability through the curved reflector geometry
2Reliability
If traditional reflector assemblies are used, then solar radiation can be reflected to the pipe, but it is difficult to maintain a precise shape over the entire length
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector assembly incorporates an integrated actuator that enables dynamic adjustment of the reflector's position and orientation. This dynamic capability allows for real-time correction of shape deviations and precise alignment with the pipe, maintaining manufacturing precision even over the entire length of the collector without requiring complex support structures
3Productivity
If the assembly is exposed to environmental conditions, then the solar collector can operate, but overheating and wind cause forces and vibrations which may damage mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that provide feedback on temperature, wind forces, and vibration levels. This feedback enables the control system to adjust the reflector assembly's position and operational parameters in real-time, reducing exposure to damaging environmental conditions while maintaining optimal solar energy collection. The feedback mechanism allows the system to respond dynamically to changing environmental conditions, protecting mechanical components from damage
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated actuator and control system are designed to take preliminary protective actions before environmental damage can occur. When sensors detect approaching damaging conditions (such as rising temperatures or increasing wind forces), the system proactively adjusts the reflector assembly to reduce exposure, preventing damage before it happens rather than responding after damage occurs
4Productivity
If condensation forms on the reflector, then the assembly can continue operating, but absorption or reflection of solar radiation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Sensors monitor the reflector surface conditions for condensation formation and provide feedback to the control system. When condensation is detected, the system adjusts the reflector assembly's angle or position to minimize the impact on solar radiation collection, or activates heating elements to evaporate the condensation. This feedback-based response maintains energy reflection efficiency while allowing continuous operation without manual intervention
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 solution enables quicker, less error-prone installation, improved durability, and enhanced energy efficiency by maintaining precise tracking and protecting against overheating and wind-induced damage, resulting in a more economical and long-lasting solar collector system.
Implementation Method 1
a reflector assembly with a curved reflector for focusing solar radiation in the range of the pipe
Implementation Method 2
a pipe exposed to solar energy adapted to accommodate a fluid flow in such a way that the solar energy is transferred to the fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A solar collector assembly (10) comprising a pipe (18) exposed to solar energy adapted to accommodate a fluid flow in such a way that the solar energy is transferred to the fluid, a heat pipe or any other energy guiding system or absorber; a reflector assembly (12) with a curved reflector (14) for focusing solar radiation in the range of the pipe (18), and an actuator (90,64, 80) for moving the reflector assembly (12) in a way that the solar radiation is reflected in the direction of the pipe (12), is characterized in that means (30, 32) are provided for releasably fixing the reflector assembly (12) to the pipe (18), and the actuator (90, 64, 80) is fixed at the reflector assembly (12) or in the reflector assembly (12).