Point focus solar concentrator using reflector strips of various geometries to form primary and secondary reflectors
AssigneeGeneral Dynamics Corporation, Space Systems Div.
InventorsTheodore G. Stern, Mickey Cornwall, Bela Kaincz, James W. Mildice
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Abstract
A point focus solar concentrator which uses various geometries of cylindrical reflector strips some of which are tilted to simulate a point focus by overlaying the line focii of each segment at a coincident point. Several embodiments of the invention are disclosed that use cylindrical parabolic, cylindrical hyperbolic or flat reflector strips to concentrate incident solar energy for use by a solar dynamic engine located at the focal point. Also disclosed is a combined photovoltaic/solar dynamic engine concentrator energy system that uses this arrangement of mirrors.
Claims7
A point focus solar concentrator comprising, at least one primary reflector having a central opening therethrough containing cylindrical parabolic reflector strips that direct solar flux towards line foci at selected focal lengths,
- means for making said line foci coincide at a point focus, comprising
- a fresnel reflector of a selected geometric configuration substantially overlaying said opening positioned between the parabolic reflector strips and said line foci to intercept and reflect said flux from said first reflector towards the point focus, and
- a solar energy receiver positioned to receive the solar flux directed to said point focus.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.