U.S. patent application number 13/434953 was filed with the patent office on 2013-09-12 for non-tracking solar radiation collector.
The applicant listed for this patent is Virgil Dewitt Perryman. Invention is credited to Virgil Dewitt Perryman.
Application Number | 20130233299 13/434953 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49112944 |
Filed Date | 2013-09-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130233299 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Perryman; Virgil Dewitt |
September 12, 2013 |
NON-TRACKING SOLAR RADIATION COLLECTOR
Abstract
A solar collection system includes a double parabolic reflector
and a light trap. The solar collection system also includes a lens
configured to receive light from the double parabolic reflector and
focus the reflected light into the light trap. The system may be
configured to resist seismic activity and extreme weather
conditions.
Inventors: |
Perryman; Virgil Dewitt;
(Sterrett, AL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Perryman; Virgil Dewitt |
Sterrett |
AL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
49112944 |
Appl. No.: |
13/434953 |
Filed: |
March 30, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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13417133 |
Mar 9, 2012 |
|
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13434953 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
126/605 ;
126/690; 126/698 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24S 2030/115 20180501;
F24S 23/31 20180501; F24S 23/74 20180501; Y02E 10/47 20130101; F24S
23/71 20180501; F24S 40/85 20180501; F24S 2023/83 20180501; F24S
2023/88 20180501; F24S 30/40 20180501; Y02E 10/40 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
126/605 ;
126/690; 126/698 |
International
Class: |
F24J 2/08 20060101
F24J002/08; F24J 2/54 20060101 F24J002/54; F24J 2/12 20060101
F24J002/12 |
Claims
1. An apparatus, comprising: a double parabolic reflector; a light
trap; and a lens configured to receive light from the double
parabolic reflector and focus the reflected light into the light
trap.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a black body
contained within the light trap; and a thermal transfer medium
operably connected to the black body, wherein the black body is
configured to absorb solar energy in the light trap and convert the
absorbed solar energy into thermal energy, and the thermal transfer
medium is configured to transport the thermal energy away from the
black body.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a plurality of
light traps with a corresponding plurality of lenses, wherein at
least one of the lenses is configured to receive solar energy
concentrated by a section of the double parabolic reflector.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein at least one of the plurality
of lenses is positioned above the other lenses and light traps to
directly receive solar energy and deliver focused solar energy to a
corresponding light trap.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a drive motor
configured to move the apparatus along only a single axis of
inclination.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lens comprises a Fresnel
lens.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the double parabolic reflector
comprises a highly reflective film that reflects a majority of
infrared, visible light, and ultraviolet solar energy.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the double parabolic reflector
is operably positioned on a lever arm driven by a hydraulic lift
that is configured to position the double parabolic reflector to
face an azimuth of the Sun.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the double parabolic reflector
comprises a frame having a plurality of panels bolted to otherwise
secured thereto, wherein the frame includes a pair of W-shaped
tracks between which the plurality of panels is compressed.
10. A solar energy collection system, comprising: a reflector
configured to reflect a broad spectrum of solar energy; a lens or
mirror configured to focus concentrated light received from the
reflector; a light trap configured to receive focused light from
the lens or minor; and a black body exposed within the light trap,
wherein the black body is configured to absorb solar energy as
thermal energy and transfer the thermal energy to a thermal
transfer medium.
11. The solar energy collection system of claim 10, further
comprising: another lens or mirror positioned above the lens or
mirror to directly receive solar energy and deliver focused solar
energy to a corresponding light trap.
12. The solar energy collection system of claim 10, further
comprising: a drive motor configured to move the solar energy
collection system along only a single axis of inclination.
13. The solar energy collection system of claim 10, wherein the
lens comprises a Fresnel lens.
14. The solar energy collection system of claim 10, wherein the
reflector comprises a highly reflective film that reflects a
majority of infrared, visible light, and ultraviolet solar
energy.
15. The solar energy collection system of claim 10, wherein the
reflector is operably positioned on a lever arm driven by a
hydraulic lift that is configured to position the reflector to face
an azimuth of the Sun.
16. The solar energy collection system of claim 10, wherein the
reflector comprises a frame having a plurality of panels bolted to
otherwise secured thereto, and the frame includes a pair of
W-shaped tracks between which the plurality of panels is
compressed.
17. A system, comprising: a reflector; a plurality of Fresnel
lenses configured to receive and focus light reflected by the
reflector; and a plurality of light traps configured to receive the
focused light from a respective one of the plurality of Fresnel
lenses.
18. The system of claim 17, further comprising: a drive motor
configured to move the system along only a single axis of
inclination.
19. The system of claim 17, wherein the reflector is operably
positioned on a lever arm driven by a hydraulic lift that is
configured to position the reflector to face an azimuth of the
Sun.
20. The system of claim 17, wherein the reflector comprises a frame
having a plurality of panels bolted to otherwise secured thereto,
and the frame includes a pair of W-shaped tracks between which the
plurality of panels is compressed.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims
priority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/417,133, filed
Mar. 9, 2012. The subject matter of this earlier filed application
is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD
[0002] The present invention generally relates to a solar radiation
collector, and more specifically, to a non-tracking solar radiation
collector that is highly resistant to seismic activity and extreme
weather conditions.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Solar energy is, for all intents and purposes, an
inexhaustible clean energy supply that can be collected using solar
thermal collection systems, for example. With the rising costs of,
and competition for, increasingly scarce fossil fuel resources,
solar thermal systems are becoming an increasingly attractive
option for providing power at residential, commercial, industrial,
and grid-level scales. However, in zones of frequent seismic
activity and/or extreme weather conditions, conventional systems
may be suboptimal due to the risk that such systems will be damaged
before they are able to generate a reasonable return-on-investment.
Furthermore, conventional solar thermal systems do not harness a
broad spectrum of solar energy, instead they only make use of
visible light and ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths in significant
quantities.
SUMMARY
[0004] Certain embodiments of the present invention may provide
solutions to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet
been fully identified, appreciated, or solved by current solar
radiation collection technologies. For example, some embodiments of
the present invention utilize a non-tracking design having a unique
architecture that facilitates broad spectrum collection and uses
one or more lenses to focus solar energy into one or more light
traps. Some embodiments also have a non-tracking architecture that
is also highly resistant to seismic activity and extreme weather
conditions, such as hurricane-force winds.
[0005] In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a double parabolic
reflector and a light trap. The apparatus also includes a lens
configured to receive light from the double parabolic reflector and
focus the reflected light into the light trap.
[0006] In another embodiment, a solar energy collection system
includes a reflector configured to reflect a broad spectrum of
solar energy and a lens or mirror configured to focus concentrated
light received from the reflector. The solar energy collection
system also includes a light trap configured to receive focused
light from the lens or minor and a black body exposed within the
light trap. The black body is configured to absorb solar energy as
thermal energy and transfer the thermal energy to a thermal
transfer medium.
[0007] In yet another embodiment, a system includes a reflector and
a plurality of Fresnel lenses configured to receive and focus light
reflected by the reflector. The system also includes a plurality of
light traps configured to receive the focused light from a
respective one of the plurality of Fresnel lenses.
[0008] In still another embodiment, an apparatus includes a
reflector and an aerodynamic cowling configured to reduce wind
resistance of the apparatus.
[0009] In another embodiment, a computer-implemented method
includes automatically detecting inclement weather conditions or
seismic activity that exceed a predetermined threshold. The
computer-implemented method also includes modifying a physical
configuration of a solar collection system, via at least one drive
mechanism, to prepare the system for the inclement weather
conditions or seismic activity when the predetermined threshold is
exceeded.
[0010] In another embodiment, a system includes a reflector and a
controller. The system also includes a drive mechanism configured
to automatically alter an inclination of the reflector responsive
to commands from the electronic controller such that the reflector
closely tracks an azimuth of the Sun.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] For a proper understanding of the invention, reference
should be made to the accompanying figures. These figures depict
only some embodiments of the invention and are not limiting of the
scope of the invention. Regarding the figures:
[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a double parabolic collector, according
to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of a solar energy collection
system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of a solar energy collection
system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0015] FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of a solar energy collection
system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 5A illustrates a side view of a solar energy collection
system with a wind and seismic activity protection configuration,
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 5B illustrates the solar energy collection system of
FIG. 5 after inclination, according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0018] FIG. 6 illustrates a cowling design configured to reduce
wind resistance, according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0019] FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of a pair of
interlocking panels, according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0020] FIG. 7B illustrates an end view of the pair of interlocking
panels, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a single key-shaped
hole and round interlocking notch, according to an embodiment of
the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 9 illustrates a frame to which interlocking panels may
be attached, according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0023] FIG. 10 illustrates a controller for controlling the
inclination of a solar collector, according to an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0024] FIG. 11A illustrates a side view of a solar collection
system retracted into a lockdown position within a bunker,
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 11B illustrates a top view of the solar collection
system with the bunker, according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0026] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method for detecting
and responding to weather and seismic events, according to an
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0027] It will be readily understood that the components of the
present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the
figures herein, may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of
different configurations. Thus, the following detailed description
of the embodiments, as represented in the attached figures, is not
intended to limit the scope of the invention as claimed, but is
merely representative of selected embodiments of the invention.
[0028] The features, structures, or characteristics of the
invention described throughout this specification may be combined
in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. For example, the
usage of "certain embodiments," "some embodiments," or other
similar language, throughout this specification refers to the fact
that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described
in connection with the embodiment may be included in at least one
embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the
phrases "in certain embodiments," "in some embodiments," "in other
embodiments," or other similar language, throughout this
specification do not necessarily all refer to the same group of
embodiments, and the described features, structures, or
characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or
more embodiments.
[0029] Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to
non-tracking solar collectors that may be highly resistant to
seismic activity and extreme weather conditions. The solar
collection panels in some embodiments are unique in that they are
as strong as, or stronger than, conventional metal panels, but are
composed of light structural plastics that act as a dampening
agent, as well as provide a stable platform for precisely focusing
solar energy for solar thermal applications. Although metals such
as aluminum may be used for some components and framing, the weight
of embodiments of the present invention tends to be significantly
less than conventional solar thermal systems.
[0030] In some embodiments, the panels are covered with a highly
solar reflective film that reflects a broad spectrum of solar
energy to a high degree. In certain embodiments, reflectivity in
the infrared, visible light, and ultraviolet (UV) ranges may exceed
90% across most wavelengths. Some of these concepts are discussed
in more detail in parent U.S. patent application Ser. No.
13/417,133.
[0031] Panels in some embodiments of the present invention provide
a greater amount of thermal energy than conventional systems, yet
are approximately the same weight as a typical high quality
photovoltaic panel, without the complexity and durability issues.
In other words, some embodiments of the present invention both
collect more energy and cost considerably less than conventional
systems.
[0032] Some embodiments use structural plastic foam for panel
construction. Foams such as acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS)
foams may be suitable for many embodiments. These foams have proven
strength and durability and are used frequently in the automotive
industry. ABS plastics can be molded into complex reinforced shapes
that are stronger than steel. Further, ABS foams present a less
expensive, stronger, lightweight alternative to metals in the
construction of broad spectrum solar collection assemblies.
[0033] Most advanced solar thermal technologies include components
that are relatively massive. Because of their size, these
components require stout foundations and must be designed to manage
substantial wind loads. These assemblies typically only meet the
standards for minimum seismic loading. Further, these assemblies
will generally not survive extremely strong winds, such as those
generated by strong hurricanes and typhoons.
[0034] These considerations have limited locations in the world
where concentrated solar thermal systems can be deployed.
Photovoltaics have dominated rooftop and urban deployments.
However, advanced solar thermal systems generally have a larger
solar operating window. Most have some storage capabilities, but
the limitation of the sheer mass of the typical concentrated solar
thermal system causes this advantage to be forsaken since
concentrated solar thermal systems are not suited for the vast
majority of urban settings.
[0035] There is a need for solar thermal solutions for environments
that experience high winds, violent storms, and other forms of
severe weather. Islands in the Caribbean and parts of the
southeastern United States, for instance, experience hurricanes
more frequently than many other areas. Many parts of the Caribbean,
in particular, are desperately in need of stable and economical
energy sources. Similarly, there is a need for solar thermal
systems in areas with significant levels of seismic activity. For
example, the Japanese Government is aggressively searching for
replacements for its nuclear power systems. Some embodiments of the
present invention can be deployed in areas where there is a serious
danger of seismic activity or inclement weather. Broad spectrum
solar thermal systems, such as those discussed in the present
application and parent application, have significant advantages
over other energy collection technologies in that they are green,
collect energy at any time of the day regardless of cloud cover,
and may be manufactured and deployed at relatively low cost.
[0036] Some embodiments of the present invention may be used in a
parabola trough or a deep elliptical-shaped dish. The panels of
these embodiments may be covered in a highly solar reflective film
that reflects a broad spectrum of solar energy. Embodiments also
generally use light traps having black bodies. However, in order to
accommodate the Sun's daily movement across the trough or dish's
reflective surface, lenses and clusters of light traps with black
bodies may be used. In many embodiments, Fresnel lenses may be
particularly useful due to their compact size. A Fresnel lens
generally is divided into a set of concentric annular sections with
a nearly flat convex center. Such lens designs may be found in the
headlamps, brake lights, and turn signal lights of many
automobiles, for example.
[0037] One unique aspect of this family of dishes is that they can
be configured in a similar fashion to solar photovoltaic panels due
to the low weight. In fact, such collectors can be sized to
directly compete with solar photovoltaic (SPV) panels and have the
further benefit of the production of thermal energy, and potential
thermal storage. This thermal energy may then be used directly, or
used to generate electricity by creating steam and driving a
generator, for instance. Such solar thermal systems exhibit
distinct advantages over SPV systems, particularly for air
conditioning and heating applications. Rooftop concentrated solar
thermal systems are possible with these dishes.
[0038] Because some embodiments of the present invention only need
to be adjusted to follow the Sun's azimuth, these embodiments need
to move on only one axis. Generally, most embodiments should be
aligned in a specific direction when collecting solar energy in
order to optimally track the azimuth of the Sun, as well as to
allow the dish shape to collect radiation anywhere along the Sun's
elevation. Some embodiments may be aligned so as to always face
this direction, and other embodiments may be configured to rotate
such that they can face in this direction, or in another desired
direction. For locations where there is the potential for severe
weather, these systems can be covered in a manner that provides a
wind-deflecting shape with an aerodynamic cowling that, when in a
lockdown position, creates an aerodynamic "teardrop" shape and may
be free to rotate to self-orient into an optimal or near-optimal
wind deflecting position. Particularly, such designs can be lowered
into storm bunkers, which can rotate and adjust position so as to
present the most aerodynamic shape to the oncoming wind when the
need arises, which changes the dish's effective shape from a
circular ovoid egg shape to a teardrop.
[0039] Because of the low weight and extremely good
strength-to-weight ratio of some embodiments, foundations can be
designed to accommodate the movement of the Earth even during
severe earthquakes. The system literally "floats" on top of the
quake since the various sections have the freedom to move, and are
designed to return to the correct position after the initial quake
and subsequent aftershocks have subsided.
[0040] Some embodiments may be deployed as panels that can be sized
such that assembly by hand is possible. These panels may interlock
and may be easily assembled on a frame made from a material such as
aluminum, for example. The interlocking of some embodiments is
better illustrated in FIGS. 7A-8. Each piece of the frame may be of
a common size and shape, one or more pieces may have different
shapes and/or sizes, or all pieces may have different shapes and/or
sizes as a matter of design choice. Various methods can be used to
raise and lower the assembly, including hydraulics, counter levers,
semicircular lifts, and ratchet assemblies, among others, any of
which generally have a low parasitic load on the system.
[0041] For the transport of collected thermal energy, some
embodiments use a solid state thermal transport system, with
proximity heat exchangers to accommodate moving joints. The system
may use a graphite composite thermal transfer medium such as
PocoFoam.RTM. in some embodiments. Some embodiments also use
thermal expansion-driven switches similar to those described in
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/326,454, which is incorporated
herein by reference.
[0042] FIG. 1 illustrates a double parabolic collector 100,
according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is
merely meant to illustrate the principles of some embodiments of
the present invention and is not necessarily drawn to scale, or
with the appropriate angles/curves. Also, while a double parabolic
collector is discussed with respect to many embodiments of the
present invention, any suitable shape, such as a flattened
parabola, may be used. However, the double parabolic embodiments
may be more compact than many other embodiments, potentially
reducing size and cost, and increasing the number of applications
for which such architectures may be used. Double parabolic
collector 100 includes a double parabolic reflector 110 having a
left parabola 112 and a right parabola 114. Double parabolic
collector 100 also includes a light trap 120.
[0043] Left parabola 112 and right parabola 114 are shaped such
that a majority of the solar energy striking the surface thereof is
reflected into light trap 120. This is regardless of the angle of
incidence of photons striking the reflective surface. In FIG. 1,
solar energy rays 130 are reflected off of the same relative
position of the surfaces of left parabola 112 and right parabola
114 into light trap 120.
[0044] FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of a solar energy collection
system 200, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Solar energy collection system 200 includes a Fresnel lens 210 and
a light trap 220. While Fresnel lenses are discussed with respect
to the embodiment of FIG. 2, concentrating lenses of any type
and/or mirrors could be configured to focus the energy into the
light trap in some embodiments. It is generally beneficial to
consider broad solar spectrum reflectivity, and few plastics are
transparent enough for such applications, but there are some
monocrystal substances that could be used for lens material. Such
monocrystal substances may include, but are not limited to, yttrium
aluminum garnet (YAG), infrared transparent glass ceramics, IR
transparent plastics such as polymethyl methacrylate, synthetic
diamonds, CdO nanocrystals, and ZnSe and NiZnSe crystals, among
others.
[0045] In some embodiments, light trap 220 may be consistent with
the light traps described in the parent application. Solar energy
passes through Fresnel lens 210 and is focused through focal point
F into light trap 220. f is the focal length of Fresnel lens 210,
and lens power P is determined by
P = 1 f . ##EQU00001##
In some embodiments, light trap 220 may contain two opposing
elliptical minors that concentrate the majority of solar energy
entering light trap 220 onto a black body 222.
[0046] Black body 222 may include a high temperature ceramic
mixture of zirconium diboride (ZrB.sub.2), possibly in a mixture of
silicon carbide (SiC), or pure ZrB.sub.2 coated with a thin coating
of various ceramics such as cubic boron nitride (BN), or other
materials such as stabilized zirconium dioxide (ZrO.sub.2). Black
body 222 absorbs solar energy that enters light trap 220 and
converts the absorbed solar energy into thermal energy. Black body
222 is integrated with a solid state thermal transfer medium 230
that may include a graphite foam material such as PocoFoam.RTM..
Thermal transfer medium 230 transfers heat away from black body 222
for subsequent use, such as for direct heat applications, to heat
water for purposes such as electrical generation, for storage in a
thermal storage medium such as those discussed in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/361,877, which is incorporated herein by
reference, or for any other suitable use.
[0047] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of a solar energy collection
system 300, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Solar energy collection system 300 is not drawn to scale or with
the appropriate supporting members in order to better illustrate
the underlying concept. Solar energy collection system 300 includes
a double parabolic reflector 310 that may be double parabolic
reflector 110 of FIG. 1 in some embodiments. Double parabolic
reflector 310 is configured to reflect solar energy into one of
three Fresnel lenses 320, 322, and 324 depending on where the solar
energy strikes double parabolic reflector 310. A Fresnel lens 326
is also positioned above solar energy collection system 300 and
focuses light that strikes its upper surface.
[0048] Each of Fresnel lenses 320, 322, 324, and 326 is positioned
so as to focus solar energy into a respective light trap 330, 332,
334, and 336. While four light traps and Fresnel lenses are shown
in FIG. 3, any desired number of light traps and lenses, minors, or
combinations thereof may be used as a matter of design choice, and
the light traps and lenses may be configured in any direction or
orientation in three dimensions, depending on the architecture.
Each of light traps 330, 332, 334, and 336 may be similar to light
trap 220 of FIG. 2 in some embodiments, and may have opposing
flattened elliptical reflective surfaces within to effectively
capture solar energy. Each of light traps 330, 332, 334, and 336
also has a respective black body 340, 342, 344, and 346 that is
configured to absorb solar energy within the respective light trap
and convert the absorbed solar energy into thermal energy.
[0049] A thermal transfer conduit 350 containing a thermal transfer
medium such as PocoFoam.RTM. is positioned in between light traps
330, 332, 334, 336, and the thermal transfer medium is operably
connected to each of black bodies 340, 342, 344, and 346 (not
shown). In some embodiments, thermal transfer conduit 350 may run
the length of the trough. Also, while shown running horizontally
here, in some embodiments, thermal transfer conduit 350 may run
vertically.
[0050] FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of a solar energy collection
system 400, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The shape may not be accurate, but simulates the geometry of a
linear trough 420 having a double parabolic shape using nested
circles. Three Fresnel lenses 430, 432, and 434 focus light into
three respective light traps 440, 442, and 444. While three light
traps 440, 442, and 444 and Fresnel lenses 430, 432, and 434 are
shown here, in some embodiments, there may be more light traps
depending on the latitude. Also, a light trap and Fresnel lens may
be placed above the others in some embodiments (not shown). A
thermal transfer conduit 450 runs between light traps 340, 342, and
344, and is operably connected to black bodies thereof (not
shown).
[0051] An aerodynamic cowling 410 surrounds linear trough 420.
Aerodynamic cowling 410 may be oval shaped, egg shaped, or any
other shape suitable for withstanding strong prevailing winds in
some embodiments. Further, in some embodiments, the entire assembly
may be moved so that aerodynamic cowling 410 presents a more narrow
profile in the general direction of the wind.
[0052] FIG. 5A illustrates a side view of a solar energy collection
system 500 with a wind protection configuration, according to an
embodiment of the present invention. Solar energy collection system
500 includes an aerodynamic cowling 510. In some embodiments,
aerodynamic cowling 510 is composed of structural woven plastics
reinforced with aluminum structural members. The woven plastics may
allow some air to pass through (not shown). The specific pattern of
one embodiment of aerodynamic cowling 510 is shown in more detail
in FIG. 6. A double parabola trough 520 has a highly mirrored
surface that reflects solar energy. A base 522 supports a thermal
transfer conduit 530 which, in turn, supports a collection assembly
540 having one or more light traps receiving light from Fresnel
lenses.
[0053] A base 550 supports a fulcrum 552 that permits a lever arm
554 to move in a vertical direction. Lever arm 554 is
counterbalanced by a counterweight 556. A foundation bunker 560
allows retraction of cowling 510 and double parabola trough 520 to
form a teardrop shape. This vertical movement is enabled by a
hydraulic lift 570.
[0054] The aerodynamics of the shape of solar energy collection
system 500 are easier to manage in high winds. Further, it is
generally optimal for double parabolic trough 520 to be oriented to
the Sun's in a permanent alignment position with respect to the
Sun's elevation and adjust the angle of the azimuth. This requires
double parabolic trough 520 to be inclined, which is accomplished
by hydraulic lift 570. Generally speaking, the highest angle of
inclination should be at the Winter Sol Invictus and the lowest
angle of inclination should be at the Summer Solaces.
[0055] An electronic controller 580 controls hydraulic lift 570 in
order to change the angle of inclination of double parabolic trough
520. Electronic controller is also connected to monitoring
equipment 590 in this embodiment. Monitoring equipment 590 may be
in any suitable location and may communicate with electronic
controller 580 through a wired connection, wirelessly, via an
intermediary device, or by any other suitable means. Monitoring
equipment 590 may include a seismometer, a barometer, an
anemometer, and/or any other device for detecting weather
conditions and seismic activity. When weather conditions and/or
seismic activity exceed a certain threshold, electronic controller
580 may move double parabolic trough 520 accordingly. For instance,
in strong winds, double parabolic trough 520 may be positioned
horizontally so as to present a smaller profile. During an
earthquake, double parabolic trough 520 may be inclined
significantly away from the azimuth so large amounts of energy are
not being collected. In certain embodiments, double parabolic
trough 520 may be moved as far away from the azimuth as possible
and/or the light traps or lenses may be turned so as to reflect
light back into the atmosphere. This motion could, for example, be
accomplished by a simple servo. In some embodiments, double
parabolic trough 520 may retract into a bunker.
[0056] FIG. 5B illustrates solar energy collection system 500 after
inclination, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The inclination causes solar energy collection system 500 to assume
the winter position. In some practical embodiments, dishes may
range from 12 meters to over 25 meters in diameter, depending on
terrain and the cost of excavation for the bunkers. As the dishes
are deep parabolas in many embodiments, the sizes will generally be
smaller than for many other dish designs, with a number of these
dishes populating a field.
[0057] FIG. 6 illustrates a cowling design 600 that is configured
to reduce wind resistance, according to an embodiment of the
present invention. Cowling design 600 includes a hexagonal mesh 610
forming hexagonal holes 620 that wind may pass through. Such a
design greatly reduces drag. While a hexagonal pattern is shown
here, any polygonal shape, spherical shape, or other shape forming
holes may be used as a matter of design choice. Further, the shapes
of the holes may be heterogeneous in some embodiments.
[0058] FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of a pair of
interlocking panels 700, according to an embodiment of the present
invention. Left interlocking panel 710 has a plurality of
key-shaped holes 712, and right interlocking panel 720 has a
corresponding series of round interlocking notches 722. Round
interlocking notches 722 may be inserted into key-shaped holes 712
and moved downward to lock into position. In some embodiments, an
additional fastening mechanism, such as solder, epoxy, tape, or any
other suitable mechanism may be used. Also, in other embodiments,
alternative fastening mechanisms such as bolts, screws, tape, glue,
solder, or any other suitable fastening mechanism may be used in
pace of the mechanism of FIG. 7A. FIG. 7B illustrates an end view
of the pair of interlocking panels 700, according to an embodiment
of the present invention.
[0059] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view 800 of a single
key-shaped hole 810 and a round interlocking notch 820, according
to an embodiment of the present invention. Key-shaped hole 810
forms a recess within its respective interlocking panel. Round
interlocking notch 820 protrudes from its respective interlocking
panel and has a neck portion 822 that is thinner than a head
portion 824.
[0060] FIG. 9 illustrates a frame 900 to which interlocking panels
may be attached, according to an embodiment of the present
invention. Frame 900 includes a track 910 that interlocked ABS
panels may slide into and be bolted to in order to lock them in
place in some embodiments. Track 910 may be on each end of a panel
set, and the panels may be compressed between two W-shaped tracks
in some embodiments. Track 910 may be composed of aluminum, for
example. In this frame, the mechanism that follows the azimuth may
be mounted. Frame 900 also includes boxed U-shaped support members
920 that may run the entire length of the panels and be bolted or
otherwise attached thereto. In some embodiments, the support
members may have other shapes as a matter of design choice.
[0061] FIG. 10 illustrates a controller 1000 for controlling the
inclination of a solar collector, according to an embodiment of the
present invention. In some embodiments, controller 1000 may control
operation of hydraulic lift 570 and other operational aspects of
solar energy collection system 500 of FIGS. 5A and 5B. Controller
1000 includes a bus 1005 or other communication mechanism for
communicating information, and a processor 1010 coupled to bus 1005
for processing information. Processor 1010 may be any type of
general or specific purpose processor, including a central
processing unit (CPU) or application specific integrated circuit
(ASIC). Controller 1000 further includes a memory 1015 for storing
information and instructions to be executed by processor 1010.
Memory 1015 can be comprised of any combination of random access
memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), flash memory, cache, static
storage such as a magnetic, optical disk, or solid state memory
devices, or any other types of non-transitory computer-readable
media or combinations thereof. Additionally, controller 1000
includes a communication device 1020, such as a wireless network
interface card, to provide access to a network.
[0062] Non-transitory computer-readable media may be any available
media that can be accessed by processor 1010 and may include both
volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media,
and communication media. Communication media may include
computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules,
lookup tables, or other data in a modulated data signal such as a
carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any
information delivery media.
[0063] Processor 1010 is further coupled via bus 1005 to a display
1025, such as a Liquid Crystal Display ("LCD"), for displaying
information to a user. A keyboard 1030 and a cursor control device
1035, such as a computer mouse, are further coupled to bus 1005 to
enable a user to interface with controller 1000. Display 1025,
keyboard 1030, and cursor control device 1035 may be located
separately from controller 1000 and may communicate with controller
1000 via wireless communication, an Ethernet cable, or any other
suitable means for transmitting and/or carrying data. For instance,
a common control center may be used to control multiple solar
energy collection devices.
[0064] In one embodiment, memory 1015 stores software modules that
provide functionality when executed by processor 1010. The modules
include an operating system 1040 for controller 1000. The modules
further include an inclination control module 1045 that is
configured to at least control the inclination of a solar
collector. However, other functionality, such as lens and light
trap orientation, for example, may also be controlled as a matter
of design choice. Controller 1000 may include one or more
additional functional modules 1050 that include additional
functionality.
[0065] One skilled in the art will appreciate that a "controller"
could be embodied as a personal computer, a server, a console, a
personal digital assistant (PDA), a cell phone, or any other
suitable computing device, or combination of devices. Presenting
the above-described functions as being performed by a "controller"
is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any
way, but is intended to provide one example of many embodiments of
the present invention. Indeed, methods, systems and apparatuses
disclosed herein may be implemented in localized and distributed
forms consistent with computing technology.
[0066] It should be noted that some of the controller features
described in this specification have been presented as modules in
order to more particularly emphasize their implementation
independence. For example, a module may be implemented as a
hardware circuit comprising custom very large scale integration
(VLSI) circuits or gate arrays, off-the-shelf semiconductors such
as logic chips, transistors, or other discrete components. A module
may also be implemented in programmable hardware devices such as
field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable array logic,
programmable logic devices, graphics processing units, or the
like.
[0067] A module may also be at least partially implemented in
software for execution by various types of processors. An
identified unit of executable code may, for instance, comprise one
or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions that
may, for instance, be organized as an object, procedure, or
function. Nevertheless, the executables of an identified module
need not be physically located together, but may comprise disparate
instructions stored in different locations which, when joined
logically together, comprise the module and achieve the stated
purpose for the module. Further, modules may be stored on a
non-transitory computer-readable medium, which may be, for
instance, a hard disk drive, flash device, random access memory
(RAM), tape, or any other such medium used to store data.
[0068] Indeed, a module of executable code could be a single
instruction, or many instructions, and may even be distributed over
several different code segments, among different programs, and
across several memory devices. Similarly, operational data may be
identified and illustrated herein within modules, and may be
embodied in any suitable form and organized within any suitable
type of data structure. The operational data may be collected as a
single data set, or may be distributed over different locations
including over different storage devices, and may exist, at least
partially, merely as electronic signals on a system or network.
[0069] FIG. 11A illustrates a side view of a solar collection
system 1100 with a bunker 1110, according to an embodiment of the
present invention. Solar collection system 1100 includes a
reflector assembly 1110 that includes a reflector and an
aerodynamic cowling similar to those illustrated in FIGS. 5A and
5B. In FIG. 11A, reflector assembly 1110 is tilted to form a
teardrop shape. An upper base portion 1120 surrounds and houses
reflector assembly 1110.
[0070] Upper base portion 1120 is seated upon hydraulic lift 1130.
In some embodiments, hydraulic lift 1130 may be configured to raise
and lower the entire reflector assembly into a lockdown position,
tilt the reflector assembly, etc. Hydraulic lift 1130 is seated
upon a first lower base portion 1140, which is operably connected
to ball bearings 1170. However, in some embodiments, ball bearings
1170 may be connected to second lower base portion 1142, or to
neither first lower base portion 1140 nor second lower base portion
1142. Ball bearings 1170 sit upon, or within a track or groove of,
second lower base portion 1142, forming a turntable. However, in
some embodiments, the track or groove may be in first upper base
portion 1140. Second lower base portion 1142 rests upon a
foundation 1180 within bunker 1150.
[0071] In FIG. 11A, the entirety of bunker 1150 is not shown.
Ground level is indicated by dashed line 1160. In order to provide
further protection from wind, a berm (not shown) made of earth,
concrete, or any other suitable material may surround bunker 1150
to provide further protection from the wind and from flooding.
[0072] Bunker 1150 may be fabricated from concrete foam or from any
other suitable material. Individual pieces, or blocks, of bunker
1150 may have a key-lock configuration similar to that of FIGS.
7A-8, or may be joined together by any desired means, such as
fabrication as a single piece, bolts, screws, etc. In many
embodiments, first lower base portion 1140 can be freed such that
the components above rotate freely like a weather vane, and the
bulbous head of the teardrop shape would point in the direction of
the wind given sufficient strength. A locking mechanism 1190 of any
desired type may be used to lock first lower base portion 1140 in
place and to release first lower base portion 1140. Such a lock may
be manually or automatically controlled via electronic controls,
for example.
[0073] Rotation may be accomplished by ball bearings 1170, or by
any other suitable mechanism such as an oiled low-friction track or
magnetic levitation (mag-lev) similar in principle to the operation
of certain trains, and all such mechanisms of rotation are included
within the definition of a "turntable" as described herein. Ball
bearings 1170 may provide reasonable resistance such that the
rotation will be moderate. Ball bearings 1170 may be seated in a
track or groove of second lower base portion 1142, or otherwise
positioned so as to enable rotation of a turntable. While rotation
in certain embodiments may be controlled by a drive mechanism,
freely rotating embodiments may provide superior performance and be
more cost-effective due to reduced machinery and complexity. It may
be complex to predict winds in areas where rapidly circulating
winds are common, and it is particularly complex to predict
swirling winds in powerful storms such as hurricanes, typhoons,
tornadoes, and strong thunderstorms. Rather, it may be better to
let the entire bunker freely rotate with the wind and optimally
position itself.
[0074] FIG. 11B illustrates a top view of the solar collection
system 1100 with the bunker, according to an embodiment of the
present invention. In this view, bunker 1150 is not shown, and the
components of reflector assembly 1110 are illustrated. Reflector
assembly 1110 includes a reflector or dish 1112 and collection
assembly 1114, which includes four light traps, four respective
Fresnel lenses, and a thermal transfer medium. Left half 1116 of
the aerodynamic cowling is tilted up, while right half 1118 of the
aerodynamic cowling is tilted down.
[0075] FIG. 12 is a flowchart 1200 illustrating a method for
detecting and responding to weather and seismic events, according
to an embodiment of the present invention. The method begins with
monitoring weather conditions and seismic activity at 1210. For
example, monitoring mechanisms such as an anemometer, a barometer,
and a seismometer may be used to monitor wind speed, air pressure,
and the movement of the Earth, respectively. If a threshold is
exceed for a weather condition or seismic activity at 1220, such as
wind over 30 MPH, seismic activity over 4.0 on the Richter scale,
etc., a physical configuration of a solar collection system is
modified via at least one drive mechanism at 1230. Otherwise,
monitoring continues. A person of ordinary skill in the art will
understand that the specific thresholds for each monitoring device
type may vary as a matter of design choice.
[0076] Some of the modifications that may be made in some
embodiments include rotating the solar collection system so as to
present a lower profile to the wind, moving a reflector to a
horizontal position when the wind speed exceeds a predetermined
threshold, altering an inclination of the reflector, a direction of
a mirror, or a direction of a light trap when seismic activity
exceeding the predetermined threshold is detected, and lowering the
solar collection system at least partially into a bunker. Once
modified, the system tracks whether the weather conditions or
seismic activity have fallen below the predetermined threshold at
1240. If not, the system stays in the protected configuration. If
below the threshold, the system returns to the normal configuration
at 1250 and the process ends.
[0077] The method steps performed in FIG. 12 may be at least
partially performed by a computer program, encoding instructions
for the nonlinear adaptive processor to perform at least the
methods described in FIG. 12, in accordance with an embodiment of
the present invention. The computer program may be embodied on a
non-transitory computer-readable medium. The computer-readable
medium may be, but is not limited to, a hard disk drive, a flash
device, a random access memory, a tape, or any other such medium
used to store data. The computer program may include encoded
instructions for controlling the nonlinear adaptive processor to
implement the methods described in FIG. 12, which may also be
stored on the computer-readable medium.
[0078] The computer program can be implemented in hardware,
software, or a hybrid implementation. The computer program can be
composed of modules that are in operative communication with one
another, and which are designed to pass information or instructions
to display. The computer program can be configured to operate on a
general purpose computer, or an application specific integrated
circuit ("ASIC").
[0079] Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to a
solar collector that reflects a broad spectrum of solar energy and
focuses the solar energy through one or more lenses. The one or
more lenses then direct the focused solar energy into one or more
light traps where a black body absorbs a large portion of the solar
energy and converts it into thermal energy. The thermal energy is
then transferred via a thermal transfer medium for subsequent use,
such as for storage in a thermal storage unit or for direct use to
heat water, for example.
[0080] In some embodiments, the solar collector may have an
aerodynamic design that is configured to resist high levels of
wind. Such embodiments may have an aerodynamic cowling that may
offer low wind resistance and may be positioned so as to present a
low profile to the wind. In some embodiments, the inclination of
the system may be changed to track the azimuth of the Sun and/or to
move the inclination away from the azimuth in the event of an
earthquake.
[0081] One having ordinary skill in the art will readily understand
that the invention as discussed above may be practiced with steps
in a different order, and/or with hardware elements in
configurations which are different than those which are disclosed.
Therefore, although the invention has been described based upon
these preferred embodiments, it would be apparent to those of skill
in the art that certain modifications, variations, and alternative
constructions would be apparent, while remaining within the spirit
and scope of the invention. In order to determine the metes and
bounds of the invention, therefore, reference should be made to the
appended claims.
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