Solar Tracker Collector Linkage for Maximum Refraction Focus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar trackers with refraction-based concentration systems face limitations in optimizing radiation concentration due to fixed lengths between concentration lenses and collectors, leading to suboptimal performance and shadowing issues during oscillating movements.
Innovation Solution
A solar tracker design featuring a stationary refraction concentration element and a collector supported by rocker arms, allowing for independent movement to position the collector at maximum sun ray concentration through a combination of pivot mechanisms and guide elements, enabling flexible positioning relative to the sun's rays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the length between linear concentration lenses and collectors is fixed, then the structure is simpler, but it is impossible to optimize the radiation concentration conditions on the collectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed length between lenses and collectors into an adjustable parameter. The articulated quadrilateral mechanism with rocker arms enables dynamic adjustment of the collector position relative to the lens, allowing optimization of radiation concentration conditions while maintaining structural simplicity through geometric constraints.
2Manufacturing precision
If the lens angle is fixed, then the manufacturing is simpler, but it cannot provide suitable concentration in the collector at different positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by enabling the lens to rotate around a vertical axis while remaining stationary relative to the movable structure. This dynamic adjustment allows the lens angle to be optimized for different solar positions throughout the day, providing suitable concentration at various collector positions without requiring complex multi-degree-of-freedom adjustment mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If oscillating circular movement is used to move lenses and collectors, then the structure can adapt to solar movement, but shadows are generated and concentration ability is not maximized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by using an articulated quadrilateral mechanism with rocker arms that enables smooth, shadow-free movement of the collector relative to the lens. This mechanism allows the collector to follow the optimal concentration path without the oscillating circular movement that causes shadowing, thereby maximizing concentration ability while adapting to solar movement throughout the day.
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 design ensures optimal solar energy collection by positioning the collector at the point of maximum concentration, enhances structural rigidity and stability, and simplifies actuation mechanisms, while minimizing material usage and assembly complexity, thereby improving energy harvesting efficiency and thermal behavior.
Implementation Method 1
solar tracker with refraction-based concentration comprising one or more refraction based concentration elements installed on a movable structure, which concentrate the sun's rays towards one or more respective collectors
Data Source
AI summary
The invention comprises: a structure (3) supporting at least one refraction-based concentration element (1) and at least one collector (2) positioned parallel to one another; and first actuation means operatively connected so as to pivot the structure in relation to a base (4) about a first axis (E1) parallel to the concentration element and to the collector, in order to track a relative movement of the sun. The concentration element is fixed in a stationary position on the structure and the collector is supported in said structure by at least two rocker arms (5) positioned parallel to one another and connected at the ends thereof to form an articulated quadrilateral mechanism. In addition, second actuation means are operatively connected so as to pivot the arms in relation to the structure about respective second axes (E2) adjacent to the concentration element and perpendicular to the first axis, so that the collector can at any time be positioned at a maximum concentration point.