Abstract: A photovoltaic (PV) panel distribution device may include a housing assembly, an elevating system, or a movement mechanism. The housing assembly may store a PV panel in a predetermined orientation within a volume defined by the housing assembly. The elevating system may engage the PV panel to move the PV panel in a direction within the volume so as to position the PV panel in an initial removal position relative to the volume. The movement mechanism may apply a force on the PV panel in the initial removal position to move the PV panel to a final removal position to permit a user to retrieve the PV panel from the final removal position.

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: Methods and systems for providing an impedance heat transfer fluid heating system in association with a parabolic trough solar concentrator are provided. The system includes an intermediate terminal connector that electrically interconnects a receiver tube of the parabolic trough solar concentrator to a power supply. The intermediate terminal connector can include a pair of plates running parallel to the receiver tube. The system additionally includes a pair of end terminal connectors. Each end terminal connector features a receiver tube plate having an aperture that completely surrounds the receiver tube assembly pipe. The end terminal connectors can additionally include a terminal connector extension that is at an angle to the receiver tube plate. A current return conductor extends between an end terminal connector and the power supply. The current return conductor is supported by the collector frame or structure and/or a receiver tube support structure.

Abstract: Reflector support arms for use in connection with parabolic trough solar concentrators are provided. The reflector support arms are constructed from multiple formed components. The use of multiple formed components enables the provision of a precisely constructed support arm. In addition, by using multiple components, the support arm can be produced using smaller forming machines than would otherwise be required.

Abstract: Methods and systems for providing an impedance heat transfer fluid heating system in association with a parabolic trough solar concentrator are provided. The system includes an intermediate terminal connector that electrically interconnects a receiver tube of the parabolic trough solar concentrator to a power supply. The intermediate terminal connector can include a pair of plates running parallel to the receiver tube. The system additionally includes a pair of end terminal connectors. Each end terminal connector features a receiver tube plate having an aperture that completely surrounds the receiver tube assembly pipe. The end terminal connectors can additionally include a terminal connector extension that is at an angle to the receiver tube plate. A current return conductor extends between an end terminal connector and the power supply. The current return conductor is supported by the collector frame or structure and/or a receiver tube support structure.

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.