Abstract: Solar collector modules and techniques for their construction are disclosed. In one aspect, a solar collector module includes a reflector and a three-dimensional structural frame that supports the reflector. The structural frame includes a set of primary structural shapes and a set of axial frame members connected between corners of the primary structural shapes forming helical paths for the transmission of torque from one end of the structural frame to the other. In another aspect, a method for assembling a solar collector module includes pre-assembling part of the module.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein include flexible joints configured to be positioned between the movable and stationary elements of a CSP heat transfer fluid circuit. Other embodiments include parabolic trough solar reflector modules, solar collectors or solar collector loops having joints between the movable and stationary elements of the heat transfer fluid circuit including at least one or more flexible pipes comprising a loop segment defining at least a partial loop around the axis of rotation.

Abstract: One disclosed embodiment is a concentrated solar thermal system for re-melting recycled or scrap metal. The system includes a solar receiver configured to receive concentrated solar flux reflected from one or many reflecting surfaces to heat a quantity of the recycled metal and cause at least a portion of the recycled metal to melt. The molten metal is then passed to a solidification stage where the molten metal may be cast into any type of solid form useful for sale or the subsequent production of metal products. The solidified metal may be sold or otherwise removed from the system. In certain embodiments, heat exchange is made to occur between the molten metal and the working fluid of an electrical power generation cycle resulting in electrical power generation. Methods of remelting metal using solar thermal power and methods of generating power using a molten metal heat transfer material derived from recycled metal or scrap are also disclosed.

Abstract: Improvements in the design and construction of solar collector modules. Aspects of the invention include improvements in the layout of a frame for a solar collector module, and in the joining of structural members of the frame at nodes. In one example, a module of a solar collector includes a reflector and a three-dimensional structural frame that supports the reflector. The frame is made up of substantially rigid elongate frame members interconnected at nodes. Improved node connection components include hubs or frame members having tabs for receiving frame member connections. A tab may have a width that is substantial in relation to its height. The frame may incorporate asymmetry in its layout, in the size or presence of frame members, or in the positioning of the nodes.

Abstract: Concentrating solar power (CSP) systems and methods are disclosed featuring the use of a solid-liquid phase change heat transfer material (HTM). The systems and methods include a solar receiver configured to receive concentrated solar flux to heat a quantity of the solid HTM and cause a portion of the solid HTM to melt to a liquid HTM. The systems and methods also include a heat exchanger in fluid communication with the solar receiver. The heat exchanger is configured to receive liquid HTM and provide for heat exchange between the liquid HTM and the working fluid of a power generation block. The heat exchanger further provides for the solidification of the liquid HTM. The systems and methods also include a material transport system providing for transportation of the solidified HTM from the heat exchanger to the solar receiver.

Abstract: A system for transferring torque between modules in a concentrating solar collector array. A trough collector system includes at least two modules, each module including a reflector having a reflective surface shaped to concentrate incoming radiation onto a linear tube, and a structural lattice attached to the reflector. The modules are constrained to rotate about a common axis. A torque transfer connection directly connects the three-dimensional structural lattices of the two modules at a location removed from the axis of rotation. Torque is thus transmitted between the modules by a force couple acting on the module. Also described are a method of transferring torque between adjacent trough collector modules, and a three-dimensional structural lattice configured for use in the system and method. Mechanisms for accommodating thermal expansion and contraction of the array are described. A drive system is described that imparts torque to a module near an edge of the module.

Abstract: Concentrating solar power systems and methods featuring the use of a solid-liquid phase change heat transfer material (HTM). The systems and methods include a solar receiver to heat and melt a quantity of solid HTM. Systems also include a heat exchanger in fluid communication with the solar receiver providing for heat exchange between the liquid HTM and the working fluid of a power generation block. The systems and methods also include a hot storage tank in communication with the solar receiver and the heat exchanger. The hot storage tank is configured to receive a portion of the liquid HTM from the solar receiver for direct storage as a thermal energy storage medium. Thus, the system features the use of a phase change HTM functioning as both a heat transfer medium and a thermal energy storage medium.