Abstract: A solar collector is provided with a reflective panel assembly that is supported by a frame and pivots about a first horizontal axis. The panel assembly is configured for reflecting sunlight to a common focal point, and includes a central panel and a pair of outer panels each pivotally coupled to the central panel and configured for folding over the central panel. A collector assembly is mounted relative to the frame and pivotal about a second horizontal axis. The collector assembly is configured for collecting solar energy and includes a receiver that is positioned at the focal point. The receiver is configured for extracting energy from the reflected sunlight. The solar collector may also include a four-bar linkage assembly for supporting the panel assembly and the collector assembly during movement from a collapsed position and a partially extended position.

Abstract: A solar collector is provided with a reflective panel assembly that is supported by a frame and pivots about a first horizontal axis. The panel assembly is configured for reflecting sunlight to a common focal point, and includes a central panel and a pair of outer panels each pivotally coupled to the central panel and configured for folding over the central panel. A collector assembly is mounted relative to the frame and pivotal about a second horizontal axis. The collector assembly is configured for collecting solar energy and includes a receiver that is positioned at the focal point. The receiver is configured for extracting energy from the reflected sunlight. The solar collector may also include a four-bar linkage assembly for supporting the panel assembly and the collector assembly during movement from a collapsed position and a partially extended position.

Abstract: A system and method for deploying a solar collector system comprising a solar collector, pedestal, pedestal jacking device, and advanced drive unit is described. The advanced drive unit is capable of erecting the pedestal over a preformed mounting area. The pedestal jacking device lowers the pedestal into the mounting area. After the pedestal has been secured, the pedestal jacking device may be used to raise the solar collector and the advanced drive, which includes azimuth and elevation drive sub-assemblies, from the ground level to the operational level, near the top of the pedestal. The advanced drive unit is used to track the movement if the sun and position the solar collector in optimum position for receiving light rays from the sun. The pedestal jacking device may be used to lower the solar collector and the advanced drive unit if repair to either one is needed.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for extinguishing oil well fires by plugging a wellhead pipe from which oil, gas and a fire flame front are emanating including centering and fluid ballasting a capper over the wellhead pipe, forcibly inserting the capper into the wellhead pipe to seal the wellhead pipe and introducing mud through the capper into the wellhead pipe to "kill" the fire. The apparatus includes the capper, fluid ballast and pressure exerting apparatus and plugging apparatus.

Abstract: A focus control system dynamically sets and controls the focal length of a reflective membrane supported between a perimeter frame. A rear membrane is also supported between the perimeter frame rearward and spaced apart from a back side of the reflective membrane. The space between the membranes defines a plenum space into which a mass of gas at a first pressure is inserted. The pressure differential between the first pressure and an external pressure, such as the atmospheric pressure, causes the reflective membrane to assume a first curvature relative to a reference plane associated with the perimeter frame. This curvature defines the focal length of the reflective membrane. The focal length is dynamically controlled by changing the volume of the plenum space, thereby changing the first pressure. The system can be used to change or maintain the pressure differential and hence the front membrane curvature.

Abstract: A wind resistant, two axis tracker is used to direct a solar reflector, heliostat, or dish antenna. An elevation drive ring is supported in a vertical orientation by dolly wheels rotatably attached to a base. The reflector is attached at two points along the circumference of the elevation drive ring. In the prreferred embodiment, a reflector having a diameter slightly less than the inside diameter of the elevation drive ring is mounted to the elevation drive ring. A number of support members, such as cables, extend from the elevation drive ring to the periphery of the reflector. Azimuth adjustment is either provided by incorporating a horizontal turntable or drive ring as part of the base, or by pivoting the reflector within the elevation drive ring by adjusting the respective lengths of the support cables extending laterally from the elevation drive ring to the periphery of the reflector.

Abstract: A radiation-to-thermal receiver apparatus for collecting radiation and converting it to thermal energy is disclosed. The invention includes a fibrous mat material which captures radiation striking the receiver. Captured radiation is removed from the fibrous mat material by a transparent fluid within which the material is bathed.

Abstract: A parabolic-trough solar collector system is disclosed, with each collector driven to track the sun using a ring driven in centerless fashion. The parabolic troughs are made of laminated plywood or molded or formed of plastics or metals. The drive motor moves a flexible belt, i.e., chain or cable, which is routed about the drive ring on each collector. The motion of the cable moves all drive rings together to track the sun. A photodetector senses the position of the sun and provides the signal needed to drive the collectors in the correct direction.

Abstract: A mirror module system is provided for accurately focusing solar radiation on a point or a line as defined by an array of solar collectors. Each mirror module includes a flexible membrane stretched over a frame in a manner similar to that of a drum or a trampoline and further includes a silvered glass or plastic mirror for forming an optical reflecting surface. The configuration of the optical reflecting surface is variably adjustable to provide for the accurate focusing of the solar energy on a given collector array, e.g., a point or a linear array arrangement. The flexible mirror-membrane combination is lightweight to facilitate installation and reduce system cost yet structurally strong enough to provide for the precise focusing of the incident solar radiation in a semi-rigid reflector system in which unwanted reflector displacement is minimized.

Abstract: A tracking system is provided for pivotally mounted spaced-apart solar collectors. A pair of cables is connected to spaced-apart portions of each collector, and a driver displaces the cables, thereby causing the collectors to pivot about their mounting, so as to assume the desired orientation. The collectors may be of the cylindrical type as well as the flat-plate type. Rigid spar-like linkages may be substituted for the cables. Releasable attachments of the cables to the collectors is also described, as is a fine tuning mechanism for precisely aligning each individual collector.