Swiveling solar reflector with multiple reflecting elements supported by prefabricated cambered members

Patent · Tue Oct 07 04:00:00 EDT 1980

OSTI ID:6564345

Auger, R H

A solar reflector made up of a plurality of contiguous rectangular panels which are mounted by supporting framework onto a rigid rotatable member which may rotate with respect to a fixed base is described. The framework includes a plurality of joists where each joist comprises a cambered member connected to a beam which in turn connects with a girder forming part of the rigid rotatable member. Each cambered member supports a long side of a reflector panel. Adjustment means are provided for moving a beam with respect to a girder whereby associated reflector panels may be accurately positioned with respect to the rigid rotating member. A method by which a solar reflector comprising a plurality of panels may be positioned with respect to a rigid supporting base where the panels are supported by a framework comprising a plurality of joists formed by parallel beams adjustably connected to girders which in turn form part of the rigid supporting base including the step of establishing a reference plane by means of a laser and a rotating prism and the step of moving a beam with respect to a girder by the adjustment means in order to bring electronic sights carried by a cambered member connected to the beam into the reference plane.

• Assignee: Saint-Gobain Industries (France)
• Patent Number(s): US 4226506
• OSTI ID: 6564345
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140700 -- Solar Thermal Power Systems
141000* -- Solar Collectors & Concentrators
DESIGN
EQUIPMENT
MECHANICAL STRUCTURES
POSITIONING
POWER PLANTS
SOLAR CONCENTRATORS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SOLAR POWER PLANTS
SOLAR REFLECTORS
SOLAR THERMAL POWER PLANTS
SOLAR TRACKING
SUPPORTS
THERMAL POWER PLANTS