Abstract: The supply unit comprises a box type profile frame (1), whose base rests on wheels (2) and on whose top side (3), a square frame (16), as seen from above, is placed, said frame containing a solar panel (7). This can be swiveled about a horizontal axis (8) and is so connected to one of the top sides of the box type profile frame (1). A peripheral, square frame (5) of same size, each containing a solar panel (6), is connected in a swiveling way to each side of this square frame (16), so that out of the five square frames (16;5), a cube is formed when these frames are swiveled down. The peripherally connected square frames (5) can be swiveled to the plane of the central square frame (16) and can be locked in this position to the central square frame (16).

Abstract: A sun tracker device includes a base frame provided with a track that is at least in part circular; a support structure, of at least one photoreceiver module, the support structure being slidably associated with the track and including a reference plane for the coupling to the at least one photoreceiver module; a first motor group for controlling the movement of the support structure on the track around a substantially vertical axis; and at least one movement member of the at least one photoreceiver module around a respective substantially horizontal axis. The reference plane is tilted, with respect to a support plane of the device, by an angle of predetermined amplitude. An optimal compromise is achieved between maximisation of the energy yield and minimisation of the device size, at the same time ensuring an easy access to the components of the device for the maintenance operations.

Abstract: A solar central receiver system employing common positioning mechanism for heliostats relates to a system of concentrating and harvesting solar energy. The heliostats of said system are positioned like facets of a Fresnel type of reflector. The heliostats are placed in arrays, wherein each array has a common positioning mechanism. The common positioning mechanism synchronously maneuvers the arrays of heliostats in altitudinal and/or azimuthal axis for tracking an apparent movement of the sun. The common positioning mechanism is employed for synchronously orienting said heliostats with respect to a stationary object and the sun such that incident solar radiation upon said heliostats is focused upon said stationary object from dawn to dusk. Subsequent to each said orientation of said heliostats, collective disposition of said heliostats always forms an arrangement that is capable of reflecting and thereby focusing incident solar radiation upon said stationary object.

Abstract: A heliostat support and drive mechanism (10) includes a fixed pedestal and a central joint attached to the pedestal (12) and attachable to a mirror frame (28), the central joint (22) allowing the mirror frame (20) to be connected to the pedestal (12) and to be movable with respect to the pedestal (12) with at least two degrees of freedom. At least two arms (14) are movably connectable to the pedestal (12). A first (16) and second (18) drive mechanism are connected to the arms (14) and are movable with respect to the arms (14), the drive mechanisms (16, 18) having mirror frame connectors (20) attached thereto to allow the drive mechanisms (16, 18) to connect to a mirror frame (18), the drive mechanisms (16, 18) being movable between an extended position and a withdrawn position.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus are presented for solar tracking and concentration of incident solar radiation for power generation. The apparatus includes a solar tracking system, an optical concentrator system and a radiation collection device. The solar tracking system includes a right ascension track and a declination track for dual axis solar tracking along equatorial coordinates of the sun, wherein the right ascension track and the declination track are driven at their respective rims. The optical concentrator system is moved by the solar tracking system to concentrate the incident solar radiation into a stationary focal point. The radiation collection device couples concentrated incident solar radiation to a power generation means. The radiation collection device is disposed proximate the stationary focal point to collect the incident solar radiation.

Abstract: A solar energy collector includes a parabolic reflector, a solar panel, a photosensor panel, a projecting pointer, a solar location calculator, and a reflector mount. The parabolic reflector includes a parabolic reflecting surface. The solar panel includes a light receiving surface for facing the reflecting surface. The photosensor panel includes a light sensing surface. The projecting pointer is mounted on the photosensor panel. The solar location calculator is connected to the photosensor panel, and is configured for calculating the trajectory of the sun relative to a geographic location of the parabolic reflector according to the motion of a shadow of the projecting pointer on the light sensing surface sensed by the photosensor panel and generating a control signal associated therewith. The reflector mount is configured for supporting and moving the parabolic reflector in following movement of the sun in response to the control signal from the solar location calculator.

Abstract: A solar tracking device for overcoming the disadvantages of a conventional solar energy system utilizing motors and to lower electricity consumption and decrease cost is provided. The device includes a solar module or solar collector supported by two springs under both ends and two water tanks on both ends. The solar module or solar collector, similar to a heliostat, is adapted to slowly revolve in response to the imbalanced water tanks filled with different amount of water.

Abstract: Described herein are solar energy collector systems, components for solar energy collector systems, and methods for installing solar energy collector systems. The components for solar energy collector systems include but are not limited to solar radiation absorbers, receivers, drives, drive systems, reflectors, and various support structures. The solar energy collection systems, solar radiation absorbers, receivers, drives, drive systems, reflectors, support structures, and/or methods may be used, for example, in LFR solar arrays. Drives and drive systems are described herein that may provide improved rotational positioning, movement, and/or rotational positional sensing. For example, drives and drive systems are provided which allow operation through a variable frequency drive. The components and methods described herein may be used together in any combination in a solar collector system, or they may be used separately in different solar collector systems.

Abstract: A solar tracking system with a torque tube supporting solar panels. Columns support the system and have bearings for rotation of the torque tube. A drive is coupled to the torque tube and is driven by a gearbox, such as a worm gear assembly, for rotating the array of solar panels to follow the sun's diurnal motion. The array can rotate in an opposite direction, or backtrack, to prevent shadowing from one module row to another. Multiple gearboxes can be mechanically linked by drive shafts and driven by a single motor. The drive shafts may incorporate universal joints for uneven terrain or staggered configurations. Harmonic dampers can be affixed to the solar panels to decouple wind forces which allows the use of larger solar panels.

Abstract: Disclosed is a solar system comprising a solar panel (1) that is composed of spaced-apart modules (11-14) which are oriented in a North-South direction in an inclined position. The modules (11-14) are mounted on a support (15) which is in contact with an adaptively program-controlled electric drive (5). Said electric drive and thus the entire panel (1) are time-dependently swiveled about a stationary shaft (6) so as to obtain maximum solar radiation. The drive (5) is self-sufficiently powered by a solar module (11), thus dispensing with the need for solar sensors and auxiliary power supplies. An operating method aims to maximize solar output while taking into account the duration of daylight. The inventive system is used particularly for supplying emergency power to sensitive infrastructures. Several systems can be mechanically or electrically connected to each other according to the master-and-slave principle so as to create a solar park and be part of a large power system.

Abstract: A sun-position tracking system for a solar module has a base on which a rotary plate is supported. Several generally parallel fixed rods fixed to the plate have outer ends extending outward past the plate. A planar frame is pivoted on the rod outer ends about a generally horizontal frame axis between a down position with the frame lying on and substantially parallel to the plate and an up position extending at an acute angle to the plate. The solar module is carried on the frame and lies in a panel plane above the rods and plate. A sector gear fixed to the frame outside the outer edge of the plate and wholly below the plane is engaged by a pivot drive mounted on the rod outer ends and wholly below the plane the frame between its positions.

Abstract: Novel mounting devices for attachment to an apparatus, the apparatus configured to receive and/or transmit radiation flux (e.g. satellite dishes for communications or electromagnetic power focusing) are described and claimed herein. The inventive mounting devices are configured to allow rotational movement of the apparatus at a required position.

Abstract: Power generation equipment using sunlight, allowing a solar cell panel to follow and rotate at a required time to follow a movement of the sun and allowing a level support base to rotate slowly at a required time so as to adapt a direction and time of the sun, comprises a level support base provided fixedly at the center support member provided on a base; a solar cell panel provided rotatably at the level support base through a horizontal axle; a set of deceleration gears interposed between a following gear 16 provided at the horizontal axle to move the solar cell panel and a drive gear 18 provided at an output axle of a first drive motor for the panel; a set of second deceleration gears interposed between a second gear which is provided at the center support member and a second drive gear provided at a drive axle of a second drive motor for the level support stand; means for controlling the first and second drive motors and further including a function for controlling an inclination of the panel.

Abstract: An apparatus for utilising solar energy is described. The apparatus comprises: (a) a plurality of movable mirrors (3) which are arranged in parallel next to one another, are orientable according to the solar altitude, and are fastened on carriers (10, 10′); (b) at least one stationary collector (14) for absorbing the radiation reflected by the mirrors (3); (c) a drive means for rotating the mirrors (3) and carriers (10, 10′) in order to orientate the mirrors (3) in such a way that the solar radiation impinging on the mirrors is reflected onto the collector (14); and (d) a framework (15) supporting said mirrors (3), said carriers (10, 10′), said stationary collector (14) and said drive means (c).

Abstract: A power generation equipment using sunlight, allowing a solar cell panel to follow and rotate at a required time so as to chase a movement of the sun and allowing a level support base to rotate slowly at a required time so as to adapt a direction and time of the sun, comprises a level support base provided fixedly at the center support member provided in a standing manner on a base; a solar cell panel provided rotatably at the level support base through a horizontal axle; a set of deceleration gears interposed between a following gear 16 provided at the horizontal axle so as to move the solar cell panel slowly and a drive gear 18 provided at an output axle of a first drive motor for the panels; a set of second deceleration gears interposed between a second gear which is provided at the center support member and a second drive gear provided at a drive axle of a second drive motor for the level support stand; means for controlling the first and drive motors and further including a function for controlling an in

Abstract: An apparatus for utilising solar energy is described.

Abstract: The solar tracking mechanism is utilized in connection with a solar energy collection system. The collection system includes a light reflective shell shaped to focus solar radiation on a radiation absorbing segment of a tube which carries a heat transfer fluid. The shell is pivotally mounted on a support frame. An actuator mounted between the support frame and the shell rotatably the shell. A solar sensor is mounted deep within a sighting tube which is fixed to the shell such that a line of sight through the sighting tube is at least parallel to the optical axis of the shell. The solar sensor generates a sensor signal which is used as a control input to an actuator control system. End limit switches generate a limit stop signals when the shell reaches maximum angular positions. The actuator control system generates fluid flows to the actuator based the solar sensor signal and the limit stop signals.

Abstract: An apparatus for capturing solar radiation of tracking type including a matrix array of a number of light receptors is disclosed. A first set of four shafts are disposed parallel to each other and parallel to a floor surface on which the apparatus is installed. A second set of four shafts are mounted on each shaft in the first set, and four light receptors per one shaft in the second set including 4×4 equal to 16 shafts are supported, thus providing a total of 64 light receptors. Each light receptor internally contains a mirror having four sections, and four parabolic mirrors of a reduced diameter which reflect light reflected by respective sections to the center of each section. Where the light receptors constitute a light collector which condenses and projects solar radiation into optical fibers, a conical opening having a reflecting surface is defined centrally in each section, with a light receiving end face of an optical fiber disposed at the bottom thereof.

Abstract: A solar tracker operates on a single axis, but partially simulates a dual-axis tracker by adjusting tilt angle as the tracker rotates. The tracker is disclosed in particular embodiments which fit efficiently within a hemispherical transparent dome.

Abstract: A plurality of sun-ray collecting units connected to one another by parallel links and arranged in rows on first turning axes are supported on a pair of turning frames that can be turned about the first turning axes. Each of a pair of push-pull cables 54 is connected at one end thereof to a cable driving device and at the other end to one of the sun-ray collecting units which are supported in plurality on each of the turning frames. Thus, a space for placement of a sun-ray tracking system can be relatively reduced in size and the turning angle of each of the sun-ray collecting units about the first turning axis can be relatively increased. The sun-ray collecting units can be turned about the second turning axes in a simple structure using a single drive source.

Abstract: A steam boiler (14) is situated on a tower (16) at the center of concentric tracks (17), (18), and (19). Poles (21) and (23) have wheels (25) running on the tracks. The poles are kept upright on the tracks with guylines (35) and struts (31) and (33). The poles carry frameworks (24) with mirrors (12) attached to them. As the earth turns, the poles move along the tracks, keeping the mirrors on the opposite side of the boiler from the sun and keeping sunlight focused approximately on the boiler. As the poles move, the frameworks pivot to fine tune the focusing. Each framework pivots about a horizontal axle (26) of the framework and about the vertical axis of one of the poles (21). Hydraulic cylinders (66) and (70) in series circuits (82) and (78) respectively pivot the frameworks collectively. The frameworks are arranged so the power needed to pivot the frameworks is the same on windy days and calm days.

Abstract: A cradle and concentrator dish for solar powered high pressure steam generation is described. The cradle permits the dish to rotate around the declination axis to follow the sun through its seasonal motions. The cradle with the dish rotates around the polar axis to follow the sun through its daily motions. The cradle is formed from two tetrahedra. Both axes of rotation lie behind the reflective surface of the dish. The dish has declination axis bearings mounted well away from its rear surface on a separate structure designed to connect the dish to the bearings. The cradle and dish combination allow tubes carrying fluid to and from a receiver mounted over the dish to accommodate the rotation of the cradle and dish by elastic torsion of the tubes.

Abstract: A series of inner fitted pipes with linear and helical guides or opposing helical guides for converting linear to rotational motion or converting rotational to linear motion of a support device. Hydraulics or electric screw drives are used to power the linear motion and then is converted to rotational adjustments of a directing or lifting support. This rotational support is capable of being used as a solar tracker, a robot, an exercise machine and a lift.

Abstract: A solar concentrator system, comprising a plurality of long metal foils with a reflective surface, longitudinally tensioned from both free ends by respective end moving frames with tensioning means, and supported by a plurality of uniformly spaced intermediate moving frames.Each moving frame has a respective driving crank, secured to a common bushing, mounted on a horizontal shaft, said shaft being secured to a respective support pedestal, a plurality of said support pedestals being secured to a common transverse beam, forming a common support structure.A solar concentrator module has a pair of end support structures with anchor means, and a plurality of uniformly spaced intermediate support structures with sliding means.Each of said end and intermediate support structures has driving means for driving said moving frames, thus forming a plurality of individual support and driving units.

Abstract: The solar concentrator includes a carriage movable along an inclined, ground anchored ramp. A first weight at the end of a pulley carried first cable, biases the carriage upwardly of the ramp slope. A number of mirrors are pivotally carried by the carraige, and reflect sunrays toward a heat sink absorber. A second weight biases the mirrors to pivot in one direction, while a third weight biases the mirrors in an opposite direction. The operator can put into operation the second or third weight as he chooses. Gravity induced up or down carriage displacement allows sun tracking adjustments on an incremental, day to day basis. Gravity induced mirrors pivotal motion allow sun tracking adjustments on a continuous basis during each daylight period. Hence, all year long, solar rays reflected by the mirrors remain convergent toward the absorber.

Abstract: Disclosed are preferred shortenings made with polyol polyesters. The Solid Fat Content curve and penetration of the shortenings is adjusted to increase smoothness and decrease graininess. Also described are food compositions that have enhanced flavors from the addition of particular sucrose polyesters.