Abstract: Disclosed is a 3D printer with a build platform configured to quickly and easily release a build object with no damage to the object. The build platform comprises a rigid frame; an adhesion surface configured to detachably attach to the upper side of the rigid frame; and rack assembly configured to attach to the bottom side of the rigid frame. The rigid frame includes a substantially planar plate of steel, while the adhesion surface comprises a flexible sheet material with an inherent concave curvature with the center biased toward the steel plate. Sets of clips and tabs integral to either the rigid frame or adhesion surface may be employed to releasable lock the frame and adhesion surface together. Sets of protrusions and dimples integral to either the rigid frame or adhesion surface may be employed to releasable lock the frame and adhesion surface together. To release a printed object, the user need only detach the adhesion surface from the rigid frame, and then twist the adhesion surface.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices for a triangular heliostat structure comprising a heliostat drive mounted on a post at each corner of the structure. Embodiments include determining an installation position of a heliostat structure based on the position of an adjacent heliostat structure when a pivotable spacing bar is detachably attached to at least two posts of the heliostat structures and may be based on the heliostat structures comprising three posts in a triangular configuration.

Abstract: A drive assembly for a heliostat is described, wherein the drive assembly may be configured to dynamically adjust the position of an attached reflector in concentrated solar power applications. The drive assembly may be further configured to provide for biasing of the reflector to reduce backlash due to external loads. The biasing force may be provided by at least one of a spring, counterweight, or offset of the center of gravity of the reflector or other attachment, or some combination thereof.

Abstract: A drive assembly for a heliostat and a method of determining the drive's home position are described. The drive assembly comprises at least one mechanical hard stop for impeding the motion of an output gear of at least one gear transmission driven by a motor. Each hard stop may be built into the housing of a gear transmission or may be made integral with an output gear. The method for determining the drive assembly's home position comprises the steps of iteratively actuating an output gear towards, and then away from, a hard stop feature while monitoring the input torque of the driving motor. When the motor input torque is registered to be higher than a predetermined trip torque, the stepper motor is commanded to stop and the home position of the drive assembly is determined.

Abstract: A drive assembly for a heliostat is described, wherein the drive assembly may be configured to dynamically adjust the position of an attached reflector in concentrated solar power applications. The drive assembly may be further configured to provide for biasing of the reflector to reduce backlash due to external loads. The biasing force may be provided by at least one of a spring, counterweight, or offset of the center of gravity of the reflector or other attachment, or some combination thereof.

Abstract: A mechanical interface between the drive and support structure of a heliostat assembly for use in concentrated solar power applications. The heliostat drive is mounted to the support structure by inserting a drive post into a structure post, the structure post having grooves for interfacing with bolts or other fasteners attached to the drive post. The structure post has a plurality of grooves to allow for multiple heliostat orientation options. The heliostat assembly further includes a capsule containing a drive motor controller and cable-mounting features, wherein the capsule is inserted into the drive post and has a cable-positioning feature to provide egress of power and communication connectors from the drive through at least one groove.

Abstract: A comprising a ground mount, a reflector assembly comprising a mirror and a frame rigidly connected to the mirror, a drive assembly configured to rotate the reflector assembly with respect to the ground mount about a predetermined angular range, and a mounting mechanism configured to connect the drive assembly to the reflector assembly and comprising a shaft connected to the drive assembly, where the drive assembly is configured to rotate the shaft about a longitudinal axis of rotation, an attachment for connecting the frame to the shaft at a fixed angle about the longitudinal axis; and a clamp for connecting the shaft to the frame.

Abstract: Systems and methods of heliostat reflector cleaning via a vehicle in a heliostat field.

Abstract: Systems and methods of heliostat reflector cleaning via a vehicle in a heliostat field.