Solar tracking concentrator
A solar tracking point concentrator for a solar energy system comprises a light weight reflector in the shape of a paraboloid dish having a rim angle of approximately 109*, whereby the center of gravity of the reflector mass is coincident with the focal point of the paraboloid. The reflector is supported on a light weight pipe pedestal assembly and controllably driven by a light weight control-drive means so as to be angularly adjustable in both elevation and azimuth to track the sun and efficiently continuously reflect the sun's rays to a heat receiver disposed at the focal point of the paraboloid preferably in a fixed position. The reflector is mounted for controlled movement to effect such angular adjustments about horizontal and vertical axes which intersect at the focal point of the reflector paraboloid. The 109* paraboloid rim angle provides a paraboloid reflector that inherently has its center of gravity essentially coincident with its focal point. This arrangement provides an essentially balanced mounting of the paraboloid reflector without requiring counterbalancing means. Therefore, the paraboloid reflector may be supported by a light weight pipe pedestal assembly and driven by light weight control-drive means, such as linear stepping motors which are controlled by electronic pulses generated by light weight microprocessors.
- Assignee:
- General Electric Co
- Patent Number(s):
- US 4252107
- OSTI ID:
- 6298232
- Resource Relation:
- Patent File Date: Filed date 20 Apr 1978
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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