Abstract: A silica aerogel having a mean pore size less than 5 nm with a standard deviation of 3 nm. The silica aerogel may have greater than 95% solar-weighted transmittance at a thickness of 8 mm for wavelengths in the range of 250 nm to 2500 nm, and a 400° C. black-body weighted specific extinction coefficient of greater than 8 m2/kg for wavelengths of 1.5 ?m to 15 ?m. Silica aerogel synthesis methods are described. A solar thermal aerogel receiver (STAR) may include an opaque frame defining an opening, an aerogel layer disposed in the opaque frame, with at least a portion of the aerogel layer being proximate the opening, and a heat transfer fluid pipe in thermal contact with and proximate the aerogel layer. A concentrating solar energy system may include a STAR and at least one reflector to direct sunlight to an opening in the STAR.

Abstract: Solar irradiation may be predicted based on input terrestrial sky images comprising cloud images, the terrestrial sky images taken from a plurality of geographic locations by a plurality of devices; for example, wherein the terrestrial sky images are crowd sourced from the plurality of devices. A model may be generated that predicts solar irradiation in a geographic area based on the input terrestrial sky images and the geographic locations from where the terrestrial sky images were taken. A signal representing the solar irradiation predicted by the model is output.

Abstract: A method for controlling the orientation of a single-axis solar tracker orientable about an axis of rotation, the method repetitively completing successive control phases, where each control phase implements the following successive steps: observing the cloud coverage above the solar tracker; comparing the observed cloud coverage with cloud coverage models stored in a database, each cloud coverage model being associated to an orientation setpoint value of the solar tracker; matching the observed cloud coverage with a cloud coverage model; servo-controlling the orientation of the solar tracker by applying the orientation setpoint value associated to said cloud coverage model retained during step c).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the thermal energy management of systems of electrically powered vehicles (EVs), which enhance the mission capabilities, or performance. The method includes an approach in which thermal energy harvesting, dissipation, storage, and distribution operate in concert. The method concurrently enables, immediate and longer-term management, including storage of thermal energy for subsequent use. The apparatus, includes the multi-functional integration of thermal energy storage, for the benefit of enhanced EV form, capabilities or performances. The apparatus includes connecting elements which provide selective, thermal conduction pathways, which link the management system. The thermal conductive pathways may be actuated in response to temperature, or by other activation means. Thermally managed systems which require persistent heating, or cooling or maintenance within a specified range, are addressed.

Abstract: The present invention provides an energy-saving plate and a method for manufacturing the same.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for cooling assembly configured to control a temperature of a vehicle component relying on cooling from a cooling air stream. In one example the cooling assembly may include a plurality of blades fixed to a surface of a cooling device. The cooling assembly may be bimetallic so that a position of the blades is self-regulatory and automatically adjusted based on heat conduction.

Abstract: A ventilation device for ventilating a room in a building, the building having a window with at least two essentially parallel panes of glass, the at least two panes of glass being arranged in a common frame, casement or sash, thus forming the window, e.g., a double window, where the at least two panes of glass are arranged with a distance, and thus appear with an air space between the panes of glass, the window further having an intake opening communicating with the air space and with either the interior or the exterior of the building, where the ventilation device further has a preheating unit with a first chassis and a first throttle, where the first chassis has a first opening communicating with the interior of the building, a second opening communicating with the exterior of the building and a third opening communicating with the air space.

Abstract: Described herein are methods and systems that can provide independent energy generation as well as systems for the generation of other useful products, such as chemicals. In addition, the systems and methods can provide ways of harnessing the potential of biomass feedstock to generate of multitude of products including green crude, biogas, electricity, heat, fatty acids, biodiesel, ammonia, and chemical products. In many cases, the systems and methods herein utilize anaerobic microorganisms, including aquatic and ruminant organisms, to digest material and create products.

Abstract: Techniques for estimating direct and diffuse sunlight reaching a location as a function of time using color whole sky images are provided. In one aspect, a method for forecasting solar insolation is provided that includes the steps of: obtaining color whole sky images using a digital camera which are taken at different times, and wherein an image of a solar disk is present in at least one of the color whole sky images; creating sky transparency images from the color whole sky images; determining atmospheric solar scattering based on a width of the solar disk in the color whole sky images; determining cloud motion trajectories from a time series of the sky transparency images; and calculating the solar insolation as a function of time using the sky transparency, the atmospheric solar scattering, and the cloud motion trajectories. A system for forecasting solar insolation is also provided.

Abstract: A sheet metal stamped light collecting reflector assembly including a generally parabolic reflector at one end of a deformable strap which at its free end is adhesively secured to the peripheral edge of a photovoltaic solar array useful to charge a storage battery connected to power a light upon the sensing an ambient light below a predetermined level for collecting sufficient light emitted by a selected grid powered light source and reflecting same to supplement said ambient light to said predetermined light level.

Abstract: A system for heating water includes a first tank containing water and a heater element for heating the water, a solar panel, a control circuit coupling the solar panel to the heater element, and a second tank. The control circuit couples power to the heater element in proportion to available sunlight. The maximum temperature of the water in the first tank is higher than the maximum temperature of the water in the second tank. Water is drawn from the system through the second tank.

Abstract: An automatic over-temperature control system for a solar collection is provided in which a light sensor in combination with an electronic solenoid valve is used to prevent entry of cold water into a thermosiphon solar collector during daylight intervals. By delaying entry of water until dusk (low light), the solar tubes have cooled sufficiently so water can be safely introduced into an empty or depleted solar collector without damaging the collector tubes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compounds and methods for the prevention or treatment of infections by negative strand RNA viruses, such as influenza virus and measles virus, wherein said compounds delay or inhibit viral replication by modulating the level or activity of a polypeptide involved in the synthesis or degradation of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) in a cell, tissue, or subject. The methods involve administration of one or more compounds which modulate the level of gene expression, where the gene encodes a polypeptide involved in regulating the metabolic level of S1P, or modulate the level or activity of a polypeptide involved in regulating the metabolic level of S1P, such as sphingosine kinase (SK) and S1P lyase (SPL). Exemplary methods are directed towards reducing the level of SW by reducing the level or activity of one or more SKs, increasing the level or activity of one or more SPLs, or a combination of both steps.

Abstract: A pumped-storage power plant, such as an electric unit can include a frequency converter and a rotating electric synchronous machine, the machine being provided in a cavern. The frequency converter can include at least two elements which can be used as inverters or as rectifiers according to the operating mode of the machine, for example during the operation of the motor or during the operation of the generator. The machine-side element can be provided within the cavern, and the network-side element can be provided outside of the cavern.

Abstract: Methods and systems for setting a throttle at a solar power plant, by a controller, the controller configured to select at least one aim point on a receiver of the solar power plant, calculate a desired energy to be delivered by two or more subgroups to each selected aim point via a search method based on an aiming scheme, and determine an optimum distribution of energy to be delivered to the receiver across the two or more subgroups via a search program based on the calculated desired energy.

Abstract: A heat pump system, including a thermal storage medium, for use in a vehicle having a passenger compartment, and a corresponding method for providing heat to a vehicle passenger compartment. The vehicle may have an electric only vehicle mode wherein the vehicle may occupy one of an active electric drive state and an inactive state. The heat pump system may include a thermal storage medium configured to store heat produced during the inactive state. The thermal storage medium may be a device which has a thermal capacity exchangeable with a fluid medium such as an Rechargeable Energy Storage System (RESS) or a phase change material. The heat stored by the thermal storage medium during the vehicle charge event may be transmitted from the thermal storage medium to the passenger compartment via the heat pump system during the active electric drive state.

Abstract: A photovoltaic module having at least one photovoltaic cell may be produced. At least one photovoltaic cell may be arranged on a substrate, covering the substrate and the cell with at least one rear wall. The rear wall may be made from at least one back sheet material, connecting the substrate, the cell, and the rear wall to one another in a planar fashion. At least one component may be arranged on the rear wall of the photovoltaic module by welding to the back sheet material. In the welding process, a heating element may be positioned between the component and at least a partial area of the rear wall, and at least the partial area of the rear wall of the photovoltaic module and a partial area of the component may be brought into contact with respective surfaces of the heating element.

Abstract: A power-free automatic driver structure of a sunshade includes a transmission body, a shape-memory elastic body, a light condensation body, a driving body, and a rotary axle. The shape-memory elastic body is made of a material that undergoes deformation when heated to reach a predetermined level of temperature. The light condensation body condense and irradiates sunlight to the shape-memory elastic body to cause deformation thereof so as to have the shape-memory elastic body drive the transmission body and thus drive, via the driving body and the rotary axle, blind slat pull cords of the sunshade to move. When sunlight radiates and causes the shape-memory elastic body to reach the predetermined level of temperature, the shape-memory elastic body deforms and drives the transmission body, the driving body, and the rotary axle to operate so as to pull the blind slat pull cords of the sunshade upwards/downwards.

Abstract: A photovoltaic thermal hybrid solar receiver includes a thermal collector, extending in a first plane and comprising an aperture; and a photovoltaic module, configured for electrical output power delivery, comprising a photo-active area that extends in a second plane at a distance from the first plane, the photo-active area being vis-à-vis the aperture, a projection of the aperture perpendicularly to the second plane corresponding to the photo-active area.

Abstract: The aim of the invention is to build central receiver solar power plants in which the heliostat fields can be used more efficiently. To achieve said aim, a heliostat field consisting of a near field having a uniform reflector surface density ? of more than 60% is preferably combined with a far field whose reflector surface density ? decreases as the distance from the receiver increases. The invention also comprises central receiver solar power plants which consist exclusively of a near field having a uniform reflector surface density ? of more than 60%. The high reflector surface density ? in the near field and in areas of the far field is achieved by the use of heliostats having rectangular reflectors and a rigid horizontal axle suspension (FHA) or, alternatively, by heliostats having rectangular reflectors and a rigid quasipolar axle suspension (FQA).

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 housing has a bottom, side panels, end panels, and a top, forming a chamber. The side and end panels have interior sections and slidable exterior sections. A solar energy collector, tubing or solar panels, is within the chamber. A cover plate is fabricated of a transparent material and is secured to the exterior section adjacent to the top. Lenses are coupled to the exterior section, and focus sunlight on the solar energy collector. Lift drivers vary the elevation of the lenses with respect to the solar energy collector. A gimbal assembly with a tilt driver operatively couples the housing to the roof to vary the angular tilt of the housing. A light sensor, a temperature sensor, and an associated controller adjust the elevation of the lenses and the tilt of the housing.

Abstract: A solar tracking sensor and methods of tracking the sun. In one embodiment, the solar tracking sensor includes a housing, an inclinometer to output a signal indicative of the angle of the housing relative to the gravitational pull of the Earth, and first and second photosensors located on a first plane located within the housing. An opening on one side of the housing allows solar radiation to pass through the housing and reach the first and second photosensors. A difference calculating module is coupled to the first photosensor and the second photosensor. The difference calculating module determines a photosensor difference value using signals from the photosensors and outputs a photosensor difference value. The photosensor difference value can be used by a controller. The controller is coupled to the inclinometer determines whether the opening is aligned with the Sun based on the photosensor difference value and information or signal from the inclinometer.

Abstract: Systems and methods for directly monitoring energy flux of a solar receiver in a solar energy-based power generation system include measuring infrared radiation emanating from the solar receiver. Such measurement can be achieved using one or more infrared thermography detectors, such as an IR camera. Resulting thermal data obtained by the imaging can be used to determine energy flux distribution on the receiver. A user or a system controller can use the determined flux distribution to adjust heliostat aiming to achieve a desired operation condition. For example, heliostats can be adjusted to achieve a uniform energy flux distribution across the external surface of the receiver and/or to maximize heat transfer to a fluid flowing through the receiver within system operating limits.

Abstract: Insulated solar panels provide that provide a solar thermal collector with means for limiting stagnation temperatures and preventing damage include: temperature limiting is provided by the insulated solar panel, isolating internal components from the environment, using passive closed systems within the sealed solar thermal collector, while also allowing alternative implementations as active systems and/or portions of the temperature limiting system outside the sealed solar thermal collector. A heat pipe can be used as a passive thermal switch, where the temperature induced action at a predetermined temperature causes an abrupt transition from a state of thermal isolation to a state of strong thermal coupling. Additionally, a set of siphon circulation pipes provides a passive closed system for temperature limiting.

Abstract: The invention relates to a solar tracker having oleo-hydraulic cylinders that increase the rigidity of the system by keeping the two chambers of each cylinder pressurized, even while on stand-by. This makes the system more accurate, avoiding undesirable cylinder movement caused by oil compression. The system includes a circuit having at least one cylinder assembly (8,9), an oleo-hydraulic plant and a control system (5), wherein the oleo-hydraulic plant supplies the oil to the cylinders controlling the speed of movement of these latter, and the control system (5) supervises and controls the correct operation of the entire system and protects said system against possible accidents.

Abstract: A central distance measuring device, which can be directed at the heliostats, is used to determine the settings of the heliostats of a heliostat field. The distance measuring device measures the space between a plurality of measuring points from the measuring site and, based on this, determines the spatial alignment of the respective heliostat. A computer contains astronomical solar altitude software and controls an actuating device of the heliostat such that the heliostat assumes the alignment intended according to the solar altitude. With the invention, position sensors and/or angle sensors on the individual heliostats are avoided. All heliostats are aligned by a central computer.

Abstract: A hybridization system (15) for use in a hybrid energy plant (35, 50, 60, 70) that includes a first thermal energy unit (10) powered by solar energy and a second non-solar thermal energy unit (11) for providing thermal energy to a user (16) via first and second heat transfer fluids (HTF) respectively. The hybridization system includes a mixing unit (45) for mixing the thermal energy of the first and second heat transfer fluids either directly or indirectly so as to form a unified heat transfer fluid that is fed to the user. In some embodiments a thermal energy storage unit (28) and mixing unit (45) are coupled directly or indirectly to the first and second thermal energy units for receiving, storing and mixing thermal energy from the thermal energy units, so as to form either directly or indirectly a unified heat transfer fluid that is fed to the user.

Abstract: A solar-thermal receiver with a superheater isolation valve is disclosed. The superheater isolation valve is positioned so as to impede the transfer of steam from a steam drum or vertical separator into a superheater. The decays in temperature and pressure, within components of a solar-thermal receiver system that may occur throughout the shutdown period of a solar-thermal receiver, may be reduced or minimized.

Abstract: A solar collector, comprising: (a) a plurality of thermosiphon tubes in which water flows, each tube having a top opening and a bottom opening; (b) a top manifold having a water inlet and water outlet and disposed at the top opening of the tubes, providing both a water feed into at least one of the plurality of tubes and a water exit from the rest of the tubes; and (c) a bottom basin connecting the bottom openings of the tubes. In some embodiments the plurality of tubes are divided into at least one inlet tube and the rest as outlet tubes by a stopper disposed in the top manifold.

Abstract: Load-matched photo-voltaic power units incorporating a plurality of photo-voltaic cells for delivery of electrical power are described. A photo-voltaic system incorporates temperature and solar irradiance sensors, whose outputs are used to estimate the photo-voltaic system maximum power output voltage. Appropriate numbers of cells are suitably interconnected to assemble at least one photo-voltaic power unit intended to both satisfy the electrical requirements of a load and enable operation of the unit at an efficiency of 90% or greater of its maximum efficiency. In an embodiment, voltage-to-voltage convertors may be used to better match the photo-voltaic power unit capabilities to the load requirements. In another embodiment an alert is issued if the photo-voltaic power unit delivers a voltage which differs by a predetermined amount from an estimated maximum power voltage.

Abstract: Terrestrial solar tracking photovoltaic arrays that may include a modular design that is sized and weighted to facilitate installation with a small amount of manpower. The array may further be adapted to be adjusted during or after installation to accommodate the necessary power requirements. The terrestrial solar tracking photovoltaic array may include a torque tube that may be constructed of discrete sections. A drive may be connected to the torque tube to rotate the torque tube. A number of solar cell modules may be connected to the torque tube. The modules may be positioned at offsetting angular orientations depending upon their distance away from the drive. This offset positioning compensates for twisting distortion of the torque tube caused by the drive rotating the torque tube. At one point of rotation, each of the solar cell modules may be substantially aligned in a common plane.

Abstract: In order to provide a method of operating a solar thermal power plant, in which a heat transfer medium is evaporated endothermally by solar radiation in an evaporator section, wherein the evaporator section comprises a plurality of evaporator branches, among which the heat transfer medium is distributed, in which method non-uniform radiation conditions of the evaporator section may be effectively taken into consideration, it is provided that the mass flow distribution at the evaporator section is controlled, wherein the mass flows are adjusted individually at all or a majority of the evaporator branches and a controlled variable is a variable characterizing a spatial energy rise in a respective evaporator branch in a region of the evaporator branch where the heat transfer medium has not yet evaporated.

Abstract: Reactors for conducting thermochemical processes with solar heat input, and associated systems and methods. A representative system includes a reactor having a reaction zone, a reactant source coupled in fluid in communication with the reactant zone, and a solar concentrator having at least one concentrator surface positionable to direct solar energy to a focal area. The system can further include an actuator coupled to the solar concentrator to move the solar concentrator relative to the sun, and a controller operatively coupled to the actuator. The controller can be programmed with instructions that direct the actuator to position the solar concentrator to focus the solar energy on the reaction zone when the solar energy is above a threshold level, and point to a location in the sky having relatively little radiant energy to cool an object when the solar energy is below the threshold level.

Abstract: A method is provided for controlling the alignment of a heliostat with respect to a receiver, wherein an image sensor device is arranged on a mirror device of the heliostat, wherein the heliostat is aligned by the image sensor device using image recognition in such a way that a first angle of a first vector pointing towards the sun, relative to a prescribed vector of the mirror device, and a second angle of a second vector pointing towards a prescribed target area of the receiver, relative to the prescribed vector, are in a relationship to each other which is dependent upon the prescribed vector of the mirror device, and wherein images of the sun and the prescribed target area and their position relative to the prescribed vector are determined.

Abstract: Photovoltaic systems with managed output and methods for managing variability of output from photovoltaic systems are described. A system includes a plurality of photovoltaic modules configured to receive and convert solar energy. The system also includes a sensor configured to determine an orientation for each of the plurality of photovoltaic modules, the orientations based on a maximum output from the photovoltaic system. The system also includes an orientation system configured to alter the orientation of one or more of the plurality of photovoltaic modules to provide a reduced output from the photovoltaic system, the reduced output less than the maximum output.

Abstract: Solar heating systems are provided which utilize an integrated fixture for transferring heat from a solar collector to a lower-temperature loop, e.g. a domestic hot water system or radiant heating system. The fixture provides a heat exchanger for transferring heat from the solar collector to the lower temperature loop. The fixture may also include a casting, in which are formed solar collector supply and return ports, lower temperature supply and return ports, a solar collector pump volute, and a lower temperature pump volute. The systems also include two pumps, and a temperature optimization control that varies the speed of at least one of the pumps depending on the temperature of the liquid in the solar collector.

Abstract: The invention relates to systems and methods for controlling angular position of a pivotable platform relative to a radiation source. In one embodiment, an apparatus for controlling angular position of a pivotable platform relative to a radiation source includes a frame, a thermal actuation element coupled to the frame, a pivotable platform positioned between the radiation source and the thermal actuation element so as to at least partially block energy from the radiation source from impinging on the thermal actuation element, and apparatus for pivoting the pivotable platform in response to a thermally controlled deformation of the thermal actuation element.

Abstract: A solar energy alignment and collection system includes at least two solar energy receivers having a central focal point, with each of the at least two solar energy receivers generating an energy output. An actuation system is operatively coupled to the at least two solar energy receivers and is configured and disposed to shift the solar energy receivers along at least one axis. A control system, operatively linked to the solar receivers and the actuation system, senses the energy output of each solar energy receiver and shifts the actuation system along the at least one axis causing solar energy to be directed at the central focal point. When solar energy is directed at the central focal point, the energy output of each solar energy receiver is substantially identical.

Abstract: A solar power generation device including a base, a tracking system mounted to the base, a solar collector mounted to the tracking system configured to open as the solar power generation device transitions to an active state and to close as the solar power generation device transitions to an inactive state, a light sensing system dynamically mounted about the base and configured to adjust the tracking system based upon the position of a light producing element, and a plurality of focusing elements mounted to the base and positioned around the light sensing system such that any light reflected by the focusing elements is directed to the solar collector. The device may further include an electricity management and conditioning system contained in the base that includes a short term storage system, a long term storage system, a data acquisition system, and a data and electricity transmission interface.

Abstract: An apparatus for capturing solar energy can include a solar energy capture device having an orientation plane and a sensor configured to determine a direction of gravity relative to a sensor plane. The solar energy capture device is configured to rotate about a pitch axis and a roll axis. The sensor plane can have an orientation that is fixed relative to the solar energy capture device. The orientation plane can he offset from the roll axis.

Abstract: A solar energy collection system includes a primary solar receiver and a secondary solar receiver. The secondary solar receiver generates steam using energy from solar radiation incident thereon. The primary solar receiver receives the generated steam from the secondary solar receiver and superheats the steam using energy from solar radiation incident thereon. A plurality of heliostat-mounted mirrors reflects incident solar radiation onto one of the primary and secondary solar receivers. A controller aims a portion of the heliostat-mounted mirrors at the primary solar receiver such that a predetermined thermal profile is provided on a surface of the primary solar receiver.

Abstract: A solar energy collection system has a solar receiver with an external surface configured for high absorption of light incident thereon. The solar receiver also has a plurality of light-reflecting elements arranged on the external surface. The light-reflecting elements produce at least partially diffuse reflection of light energy incident thereon. Heliostats concentrate solar radiation onto the external surface of the solar receiver. An imaging device provides a digital image of at least a portion of the external surface of the solar receiver. A controller can control the heliostats in response to apparent brightness of the light-reflecting elements as represented in the digital image.

Abstract: Photovoltaic systems with managed output and methods for managing variability of output from photovoltaic systems are described. A system includes a plurality of photovoltaic modules configured to receive and convert solar energy. The system also includes a sensor configured to determine an orientation for each of the plurality of photovoltaic modules, the orientations based on a maximum output from the photovoltaic system. The system also includes an orientation system configured to alter the orientation of one or more of the plurality of photovoltaic modules to provide a reduced output from the photovoltaic system, the reduced output less than the maximum output.

Abstract: The alignment of a parabolic trough reflector and its receiver pipe in a solar thermal field for collecting sunlight energy can be verified by acquiring an aerial image of the parabolic trough reflector from above the thermal field while passing through the sun-receiver-vertices plane of the parabolic trough reflector. By analyzing the aerial image to determine whether any reflection of the sun is visible in the parabolic trough reflector in the aerial image, one can determine whether the parabolic trough reflector and its receiver pipe is properly aligned. If a reflection of the sun is visible in the parabolic trough reflector in the aerial image, the parabolic trough reflector and its receiver pipe are out of alignment and require an adjustment.

Abstract: A solar energy collection system includes a primary solar receiver and a secondary solar receiver. The secondary solar receiver generates steam using energy from solar radiation incident thereon. The primary solar receiver receives the generated steam from the secondary solar receiver and superheats the steam using energy from solar radiation incident thereon. A plurality of heliostat-mounted mirrors reflects incident solar radiation onto one of the primary and secondary solar receivers. A controller aims a portion of the heliostat-mounted mirrors at the primary solar receiver such that a predetermined thermal profile is provided on a surface of the primary solar receiver.

Abstract: Methods and systems for managing heliostat aiming toward a target are described. Solar rays incident on a reflective surface of a heliostat mirror are reflected toward the target. One or more optical signalers are arranged at positions about the target. An optical signal received from one of the one or more optical signalers is detected. An error in an orientation of the reflective surface is determined based on the optical signal.

Abstract: A dehydration device includes a solar energy collection device connected with a water source so as to transfer solar energy into thermo energy which heats water that is supplied from the water source. A water storage device includes at least one hot water tank which has a heater connected to the solar energy collection device. The water heated by the solar energy collection device is stored in the at least one hot water tank. A heat-exchange device has a pipe connected with the water storage device, and an air delivery unit which blows air toward the pipe to form hot air to dehydrate foods. A windmill generates electric power which is provided to the dehydration device. The dehydration device uses green energy to dehydrate foods to keep proper freshness and nutrition. The dehydration device is easily moved and friendly to the environment.

Abstract: A machine for tracking the sun's movement and concentrating sunlight consists of a main frame which pivots in the north and south direction on a base having conduit for a heat medium (a liquid usually of the Glycol family the main frame supports the mirror frame that pivots 360 degrees East to West allowing the mirror to focus the sunlight onto the conduit heating the liquid medium producing a very high and concentrated amount of heat during the entire daylight period and can be used for a small business or residential heating. An optional prism can be attached to the mirror frame to focus sun rays onto the conduit for added heat.

Abstract: A system including a solar heat collector and a heat receiving structure has a supply conduit extending through an airspace within the solar heat collector, to the heat receiving structure, and into the heat receiving structure. A temperature sensor within the airspace of the solar heat collector measures a temperature within the airspace of the solar heat collector and turns an air pump on to move air through the supply conduit it this temperature is too high. This air may be exhausted through a bypass valve instead of being pumped into the heat receiving structure. The heat receiving structure may include a pool with water heated by bubbles of hot air from the supply conduit.