Solar Mirror Array Tracking with Fixed-Orientation Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar concentrating systems with 2-axis tracking mechanisms are complex, costly, and mechanically unstable, requiring numerous components and leading to inefficiencies in space usage and scalability, as well as increased maintenance and manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A solar tracking system that uses specific mathematical relationships to correlate Cartesian, altazimuth, and celestial coordinate systems, allowing for translational motion of mirrors with fixed orientation to track the Sun, eliminating the need for rotational adjustments and reducing the number of components and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 2-axis tracking mechanisms are used to track moving light sources, then tracking accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the tracking function into two independent parts: (1) a stationary mirror array with fixed orientations where each mirror is optimized for a specific source position, and (2) a simple 2D translational stage that moves the entire mirror array. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex rotational mechanisms while maintaining tracking capability through coordinate transformation mathematics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical rotational tracking systems with a mathematical coordinate transformation approach. By correlating Cartesian, altazimuth, and celestial coordinate systems, the invention achieves accurate tracking through simple translational motion and fixed mirror orientations, eliminating the need for complex geared shafts, linkages, and rotational actuators.
2Area of stationary object
If discrete planar mirrors are used in large arrays, then aperture area is increased, but manufacturing and maintenance costs increase due to high component count
Solution Approach 1:
The large aperture is achieved by assembling multiple identical mirror modules in a grid pattern. Each mirror has a fixed orientation optimized for its specific position, and all mirrors are identical in design. This modular segmentation allows the system to scale to large apertures while maintaining manufacturing efficiency, as each mirror can be manufactured independently using the same template and assembly process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mirrors are suspended at fulcrums for rotational motion, then tracking capability is achieved, but mechanical stability deteriorates due to inherent oscillation
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of suspending mirrors at fulcrums to enable rotation (conventional approach), the invention inverts the approach by fixing mirrors in stationary positions with predetermined orientations and enabling rotation of the entire mirror array platform. This inversion eliminates the mechanical instability of suspended fulcrums while preserving tracking capability through the mathematical coordinate transformation that maps source positions to fixed mirror orientations.
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 approach simplifies the system design, reduces costs, improves mechanical stability, and enhances focus efficiency by allowing closer packing of mirrors, while maintaining effective sunlight concentration across a larger surface area.
Implementation Method 1
When a stationary light source or an electromagnetic radiation source impinges a planar mirror, the reflection of the light source is projected along a line defined by the location of the mirror relative to the light source
Data Source
AI summary
A tracking system for reflecting electromagnetic radiation from a source to a target area, having at least one reflecting surface or mirror mounted to a support that fixes the reflecting surface orientation to focus electromagnetic radiation on the target area when the reflecting surface is at a first location at a first predefined time. The system has a path with at least the first location and a second location. The reflecting surface is movable along the path to maintain focus on the target area. The reflecting surface may have an orientation with a fixed declination angle and fixed hour angle. The source may include a moving source such as the Sun.