Abstract:
In some embodiments, a solar energy system can include: (a) at least one solar collector, the at least one solar collector having: (1) one or more fiber optic cables; (2) a receiver with focusing optics configured to focus solar radiation into the one or more fiber optic cables; and (3) at least one concentrating reflector configured to re-direct the solar radiation to the receiver; and (b) one or more converting elements coupled to the one or more fiber optic cables, the one or more converting elements configured to convert the solar radiation into one or more other forms of energy. Other embodiments are disclosed.
Abstract:
A solar concentrator calibration tool that compensates for inconsistencies in the fabrication, assembly and installation of a solar collector system, permitting the solar collector to perform optimally. The calibration tool provides feedback information to a supervisory control processor, allowing the processor to compare the expected position of the sun to the "actual" position found by the calibration tool. The processor then generates a calibration signal, thereafter used by the collector's movement control mechanism, to compensate the tracking of the solar collector to accurately follow the movement of the sun, unconstrained by the effects of the construction inconsistencies.
Abstract:
A solar concentrator calibration tool that compensates for inconsistencies in the fabrication, assembly and installation of a solar collector system, permitting the solar collector to perform optimally. The calibration tool provides feedback information to a supervisory control processor, allowing the processor to compare the expected position of the sun to the "actual" position found by the calibration tool. The processor then generates a calibration signal, thereafter used by the collector's movement control mechanism, to compensate the tracking of the solar collector to accurately follow the movement of the sun, unconstrained by the effects of the construction inconsistencies.
Abstract:
In some embodiments, a solar energy system can include: (a) at least one solar collector, the at least one solar collector having: (1) one or more fiber optic cables; (2) a receiver with focusing optics configured to focus solar radiation into the one or more fiber optic cables; and (3) at least one concentrating reflector configured to re-direct the solar radiation to the receiver; and (b) one or more converting elements coupled to the one or more fiber optic cables, the one or more converting elements configured to convert the solar radiation into one or more other forms of energy. Other embodiments are disclosed.