Tracking system for solar energy collection

Patent · Tue May 15 04:00:00 EDT 1979

OSTI ID:6077514

Nelson, D H

A tracking system is provided for positioning solar energy collection units to face the sun during daylight hours. The collectors are mounted generally in north-south alignment with rotatable connections to a supporting base. The connections are laterally offset from the center of gravity of the collector. Thus, the weight of the collector ends to rotate the collector about the connection points to bring the center of gravity to the lowest possible point, thereby orienting the collector generally to face the western horizon. A rotation restraint mechanism is provided to prevent the uncontrolled rotation of the collector to a degree coordinated with rotation of the earth relative to the sun, thereby positioning the collector to directly face the sun during daylight hours. A rank of collectors in parallel alignment can be connected for tandem rotation under the control of a single rotation restraining mechanism. Rotation restraint can be effectuated by means of an electric brake or by a solenoid actuated pawl and ratchet gear.

• Assignee: American Solar
• Patent Number(s): US 4154221
• OSTI ID: 6077514
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
141000* -- Solar Collectors & Concentrators
DESIGN
GEARS
INCLINATION
MOTION
ROTATION
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR TRACKING