Three-reflection collection system for solar and lunar radiant energy

Abstract

A system utilizing a series of three mirrors for purposes of collecting, concentrating, collimating and distributing radiant flux, such as sunlight or moonlight. The system generally includes a first parabolic reflector having a hole formed centrally therethrough, a second parabolic reflector slightly smaller in diameter than the hole formed through the first reflector and attached in spaced relation thereto, such that the two reflectors share a common optical axis, and a third, planar reflector. A structural framework supports the three reflectors and includes a light pipe, or other light distributing channel, through which the collected light is sent. First and second motors actuate gear assemblies attached to the framework to cause the reflectors to track both the elevation and azimuth angles, respectively, of the sun and/or moon. One microprocessor operatively attached to position sensor assemblies incorporated into each of the motors, sends elevation and azimuth angle data to the sensors at predetermined intervals throughout each day, ultimately causing the motors to continuously adjust the position of the reflectors such that the first and second reflectors' optical axis is perfectly aligned with the elevation and azimuth angle of the sun, or moon, thereby maximizing the system's potential collection of radiant flux.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.