Focal display panel for visual optimization of solar collection

In a solar energy collection array, a method of focusing reflected solar energy in relation to a tube carrying working fluid comprising the steps of:

• (a) providing a movable linear array of reflective panels facing inwardly to form a substantially parabolic trough, said linear array being movable to align said substantially parabolic trough with parallel rays of direct sunlight during at least some daylight hours;
• (b) suspending a tube carrying working fluid linearly along the focal axis of said substantially parabolically trough;
• (c) affixing a focal display panel having a target area about said tube such that said focal display panel extends between said tube and said reflective panels and beyond said tube in a direction away from said reflective panels;
• (d) directing said movable array toward incoming direct sunlight;
• (e) observing on said focal display panel the position of the apex of a shadow caused by the reflection of sunlight around said tube;
• and
• (f) positioning said movable array to cause said apex of said shadow to fall upon a predetermined position on said focal display panel.

A solar energy collector comprising:

• An array comprising at least one reflective surface and a working fluid;
• a focal display panel comprising a target area and a spillage area, wherein:
• the panel indicates a focal area of said array;
• the panel forms a cavity extending at least partially around said working fluid,
• the panel is situated to display patterns of light and shadow reflected from said array whereby a focal area formed by light and shadow reflected from said array is visible on said panel.