Abstract: A method and apparatus worn by a user for controlling weeds using concentrated solar energy is disclosed. Solar energy may be concentrated by Fresnel lens over the wearer and directed by manual methods by the wearer at surfaces of weed plants to heat portions thereof causing damage. Shutters or other devices may be used to direct, and control intensity of concentrated, solar energy, such control preferably applied before significant concentration of the solar energy. In some embodiments, solar energy concentration apparatus may be integrated with solar photovoltaic cells for generating electric power for purposes such as an electrical temperature sensor, a camera and video display device for viewing underneath a crop canopy, control of solar intensity and other purposes.

Abstract: When upper-lower positional relationship on an optical path is defined such that the primary concentrating portion is at an upper position than the secondary concentrating portion, the secondary concentrating portion includes: a secondary lens provided above the power generating element; a lens supporting portion configured to support the secondary lens; and a shielding plate being a flat-plate-shaped member preventing sunlight to pass therethrough whereas allowing an upper portion of the secondary lens to be exposed from a hole formed in the flat-plate-shaped member, the shielding plate being fixed in a state of being mounted to the lens supporting portion, the shielding plate being configured to block light converging at a position outside the secondary lens.

Abstract: An integrated drive leg and mount suitable for solar power devices, such as trough solar concentrators or PV panels. A drive system including a linear actuator is integrated into the support structure. A pulley assembly converts the linear force into rotational motion, thereby providing tracking adjustments for a solar power device following the sun avoiding larger external electric drive motor which are situated between successive solar power devices. The integrated nature enables a smaller gap between solar power devices in solar installations, reduces the effect of induced shadowing, and enables greater collection of solar energy.

Abstract: Disclosed is a novel solar collecting assembly that in which more than one mirror and/or photovoltaic is linked mechanically so that many mirrors share a few actuators, rather than equipping each mirror with individual actuators. One example includes a set of structures, such as poles or pipes. Each of the support structures has a first end and a second end, and each of the support structures is associated with at least one solar collecting assembly. A first set of cables is arranged to move the solar collecting assemblies in a first direction, each of the first set of cables includes a set of first alignment fittings disposed thereon. The first end of each of the solar collecting assemblies is attached to one of the first alignment fittings in the first set of cables. A second set of cables arranged to move the solar collecting assemblies in a second direction.

Abstract: Tracking modules are effectively provided that can be arranged as systems for positioning devices, such as reflectors. A preferred reflector is small and light in comparison to prior art reflectors so that components can be utilized within reflector construction and support structure that are sufficiently stiff to accurately hold a reflector in place under expected operational drive-torque, gravity and wind loads. At the same time, a single person can install a reflector, easily overcoming a retention mechanism spring force so as to positively engage a reflector in position. This is achieved without the need for any tools, through a combination of a retention mechanism and a spring feature design. Arrangements of tracking modules are included for easier manufacture, transport of systems and installment.

Abstract: A modular and portable motorized solar concentrator assembly for production of ethanol, electricity, potable water, or combinations thereof can include a housing and a reflective array. An airtight chamber is formed in the reflective array, and ancillary reflective concentrators can provide addition solar radiation thereto. An inert gas in the airtight chamber can form a low-humidity and air-free environment. The portable motorized solar concentrator assembly can engage an electricity producing plant, a desalination plant, an ethanol producing plant, or combinations thereof.

Abstract: A tubular building enclosure system with thermally-broken glass modules having evacuated air spaces assembled in rows and/or columns to form a structurally self-supporting, thermally insulating, and solar energy collecting facade.

Abstract: A sun tracking mechanism is provided for solar power generation, including a power unit, a linear actuator and at least two universal joints. The sun tracking mechanism outputs an angle of high precision by two axial directions provided from the universal joints, the power unit and the linear actuator. A solar power module disposed on the sun tracking mechanism generates electricity in the best light incident angle. In addition, the linear actuator provides an auxiliary supporting force to improve the wind-resistant capability.

Abstract: A center of gravity Q1 of a mirror structure 31, which has a plurality of mirrors 32, is located between the plurality of mirrors 32. A driving mechanism 40 that rotates the mirror structure 31 includes a first rotational shaft 52 that has a first rotational axis A1 as a central axis and is supported by a supporting base 80 to be rotatable, a first drive device 60 that rotates the first rotational shaft 52, a second rotational shaft 42 that has the mirror structure 31 fixed thereto, has a second rotational axis A2 which is orthogonal to the first rotational axis A1 as a central axis, and is mounted on the first rotational shaft 52 to be rotatable, and a second drive device 45 that rotates the second rotational shaft 42. The center of gravity Q1 of the mirror structure 31 is located in the first rotational shaft 52 and in the second rotational shaft 42.

Abstract: A system and method for providing real time control of a heliostat array or CPV/PV module that reduces actuation cost, the disclosure reduces the fixed cost of calibrating and repositioning an individual surface. This simultaneously removes the core engineering assumption that drives the development of large trackers, and enables a system and method to cost effectively track a small surface. In addition to lower initial capital cost, a small heliostat or solar tracker can be pre-assembled, mass-produced, and shipped more easily. Smaller mechanisms can also be installed with simple hand tools and do not require installers to rent expensive cranes or installation equipment.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are examples and variations of solar energy collector system comprising an elevated linear receiver (5) and first and second reflector fields (10P, 10E) located on opposite sides of, and arranged and driven to reflect solar radiation to, the receiver (5). Also disclosed herein are examples and variations of receivers (5) and reflectors (12a) that may, in some variations, be utilized in the disclosed solar energy collector systems.

Abstract: A tracker drive system is provided for rotatably driving one or more objects, for example solar panels or other equipment. The system comprises a torque element mounted for rotation about a generally horizontal axis, wherein the torque element can support one or more objects for rotation therewith about the generally horizontal axis; a lever arm connected with the torque element, the lever arm being movable to rotate the torque element; a movable drive member that is drivable by a drive mechanism; and a dynamic coupler coupling the drive member with the lever arm such that the lever arm is drivable by the drive member to rotate the torque element.

Abstract: A system for and method of reducing the effects of preheat period variation in shape memory alloy actuation, include sensing the removal of motion delay due to slack, backlash, and/or compliance in the actuator and drive-train of the system, and determining actuator activation, as a result thereof.

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 receiver system for harnessing solar radiation. Embodiments of a receiver system include a receiver including one or more receiver elements, each receiver element including: a plurality of transparent tubes including a first tube and at least one second tube at least partially within the first tube; a first passage interposed between the first tube and the at least one second tube, the first passage having an inlet and an outlet; a second passage within the at least one second tube, the second passage having an inlet and an outlet; and an absorber in the at least one second tube, the absorber adapted to absorb the solar radiation. In some embodiments, a receiver further includes a housing having at least one transparent portion, the housing configured to enclose the plurality of receiver elements, whereby a third passage is formed between the first tube and the housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to improvements in orientable solar panel array systems of the type of solar panel arrays comprising a plurality of panels (1) for capturing solar radiation, arranged on a bearing structure pivotally assembled with respect to a horizontal tube (3), which in turn is rotatably assembled on the end of a support column (2), the structure bearing the panels (1) comprising two parallel trusses (4) on which trusses a series of longitudinal profiles with a C-shaped cross-section are transversely arranged, on which longitudinal profiles sliding profiles (6) with a square cross-section having an open groove in the upper part are perpendicularly arranged, on which sliding profiles the panels (1) are fastened.

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: An economical, highly efficient, and complete system for harnessing the sun's energy, storing, and/or converting this energy into a usable energy product on a sustainable cycle. The system includes an enclosed volume chamber having a mirrored inner surface and an opening for receiving a condensed high-temperature solar energy beam and trapping thermal energy. A fluid source is injected into the chamber for converting this energy into a high pressure source which can be fed to an energy converting device. The enclosed volume chamber can include a thermal absorbing member to store thermal energy for use during sunless hours. A sustainable system including a plurality of interconnected chambers can be provided to form an additive system of thermal energy for use during the day and during sunless hours. The thermal energy can be converted to provide a clean energy source at zero carbon emission for use in numerous and diverse applications.

Abstract: The invention in one embodiment includes an aiming device coupled to an actuator and an object. The system comprises a base attached to the actuator, and a frame rotatably affixed to the base and the object. The frame and object rotate together about a first axis in response to activation of the actuator, while the object discretely rotates relative to the frame about a second axis different than the first axis each time the frame rotates a predetermined angle relative to the base.

Abstract: A parabolic trough solar collector system has a parabolic reflector used with an independently supported collector tube. The parabolic reflector has a reflective surface formed on a reflective surface support structure, supported by a circular support beam. This assembly rests on a plurality of support and drive rollers supported by a roller support arm, supported by a roller support column. The parabolic reflector assembly rotates against the rollers along a single axis to maintain a focus line of the parabolic reflector surface at the same location as the center of the circle described by the outer edge of the circular support beam. Located at this same focus line is the independently supported collector tube not attached to the parabolic trough reflector. The collector tube is supported on pipe roller hangers, which in turn are supported by a wire catenary system connected to support towers which straddle the parabolic reflector.

Abstract: A solar radiation collector system may includes a gimbal with a rim that supports a solar radiation concentrator or collector assembly passing through the plane of the rim, and foundation structures that support and anchor the gimbal, allowing it to both rotate and be raised or lowered. One flexible structural member may support the gimbal rim and a second flexible structural device both anchors the rim and enables the gimbal-collector assembly to rotate around an axis parallel to the earth's polar axis providing the desired primary tracking motion following the daily apparent motion of the sun. Motion between the gimbal and the solar radiation collector assembly allows the assembly to follow the apparent seasonal motion of the sun, among other tasks.

Abstract: The invention discloses a novel and efficient drive mechanism for use in a variety of applications. This novel mechanism replaces traditional stepper motors or another analogous art with shape memory alloys. The drive mechanism so disclosed provides substantial operational benefits over conventional motors and other such traditional drive mechanisms that would be used in similar applications. The drive mechanism includes a high gear-ratio worm gear and worm drive which further provides precise, controlled movement of an output shaft. In the illustrative use elaborated upon herein, the motor is used to drive a photovoltaic panel so that the panel may remain in appropriate alignment with the sun throughout the day.

Abstract: A cable ganged heliostat used to focus radiation from a moving source onto a receiver is disclosed. The primary application of such an invention relates to reflecting the radiation from the sun onto a stationary target. The device orients a reflective surface to a position necessary for imaging using a mirror adjustment means. The device may be used singly or in a ganged array. The mirror and mirror adjustment means of the device may be supported by cables.

Abstract: Solar heating systems and methods are described. In one aspect, a system is described that includes multiple mirror row holders, with each row holder configured to hold a row of mirrors at angles to track sunrays and reflect the rays onto a focal point. Each row holder has a single pinion device of multiple pinion devices associated with the multiple row holders. The system also has a sun tracking latitudinal slider (STLS) rack configured to interface with each pinion device on a respective mirror row holder. This interface tilts the mirrors in each row holder an amount to adjust mirror angles to reflect latitudinal sun motion to concentrate rays of the sun onto the focal point. The system also includes an azimuth adjustment mechanism to control mirror angles with respect to the sun to reflect sun motion during daylight.

Abstract: In a two-axle drive system (10) for holding and moving large sunlight-absorbing, concentrating or reflecting surfaces about an azimuth axis (14) and an elevation axis (15), in the case of which a first gear unit which is driven by a first drive (43) is provided for a rotational movement about the azimuth axis (14), and a second gear unit which is driven by a second drive (45) is provided for a rotational movement about the elevation axis (15), the first gear unit being located in a first housing section (23), and the second gear unit being located in a second housing section (24), the first and second housing sections (23, 24) are immobile relative to each other. High stiffness is obtained as a result.

Abstract: Movement mechanism for at least an interception element assembled mobile on a support frame to assume an optimized interception condition. The movement mechanism is suitable to be assembled on the support frame and to be constrained to the interception element, in order to allow the movement thereof with respect to the support frame, and comprises a fixed body suitable to be assembled on the support frame, a rotating body assembled rotatable inside the fixed body around an axis of rotation and suitable to be constrained to the interception element, and a plurality of rolling members disposed rotating between relative sliding tracks made both on the fixed body and also on the rotating body. The mechanism movement comprises at least a compensation seating made on the fixed body and/or on the rotating body which extends with respect to said sliding tracks in a direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation, to define a controlled play of axial displacement controlled by the rolling members.

Abstract: A sun tracking system includes a reduction device of a servo motor, multiple shafts, multiple couplers, and at least two rows of cylinders and each row having at least two cylinders, a solar panel, multiple pivotal connection units and multiple sliding units. The reduction device of a servo motor drives the cylinders of the first and second rows of cylinders which drive other cylinders. The cylinders of the first row of cylinders are pivotably connected to the solar panel and the cylinders of the second row of cylinders are movably connected to the solar panel. By the cylinders of the same row moving upward or downward while the cylinders of the other row moving downward or upward, the panel is controlled to aim the sun.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a photovoltaic soundproof wall having a plurality of soundproof members each formed by surrounding the edge portions of two transparent sheets with a main frame and a plurality of posts adapted to mount the plurality of soundproof members therebetween, the photovoltaic soundproof wall including: a subframe disposed inside the main frame; a motor disposed inside the subframe for rotating a drive shaft rotatably mounted inside the subframe; a power transmission unit adapted to transmit the rotary force of the motor; a plurality of slats spaced apart from each other vertically between the two transparent sheets in such a manner as to be moved collectively by the power transmitted from the power transmission unit; and a plurality of solar cells attached to the top surface of each of the plurality of slats.

Abstract: The present invention provides a solar tracking skylight system for illumination, primarily including a light guide, a solar tracking controller, a two-axis tracking mechanism, an energy converter and energy storage system, and a weather protective cover. The system uses the solar tracking controller to detect the direction of the light, thereby enabling the two-axis tracking mechanism to move toward the light to facilitate the light guide in collecting light and diffusing it indoors for illumination use. The protective cover provides waterproofing, and the energy converter and energy storage system is used to store electrical energy generated by the solar energy panel for system use. External power is not needed for the system to operate and provide indoor lighting, thereby achieving the objective of saving energy and reducing carbon emissions.

Abstract: A system and method for operating a robotic controller to automatically position multiple solar surfaces in order to increase solar energy generation from the solar surfaces. In an embodiment the robotic controller travels in a sealed track and adjusts the solar surfaces using magnetic communication.

Abstract: A driving pinion drives two driven gears which are engaged with the driving pinion to rotate. Two drive bars which are fixed on the driven gears at a set radius respectively are inserted into two elongated openings of a frame which is pivoted on the driving pinion to make the frame seesaw, and then to make a coupler link which is borne on a stand, seesaw synchronously via a rocker mechanism having a four-bar linkage which is pivoted on both ends of the frame. Also, the stand is connected to an inclination adjusting mechanism, so that the inclination of the stand can be changed with respect to a horizontal plane.

Abstract: A solar air heating module is provided including an air entrance situated proximate to a bottom of the module and an air exit situated proximate to the top of the module; a back film, having a plurality of conical solar collectors extending perpendicularly therefrom; a front film in contact with the collectors to prevent air from escaping between the entrance and the exit; wherein air, when entering the entrance, passes by the collectors to mix with heated air before reaching the exit. Alternatively the collectors may be aligned wherein each collector is secured to adjacent collectors by plates or a strap to allow the module to be folded or rolled up for storage.

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: This invention is a trough solar collector that uses the principles of high leverage in order to produce a lightweight, inexpensive thermal solar collector. The parabolic reflectors are held in proper shape by rigid ribs that are spaced apart along the length of the collector. The structure of the trough is held rigid by a unique sun-tracking system that not only guides a long trough row to point it toward the sun, but also maintains the whole length of the row in rigid configuration. Small-diameter cables are wrapped around a rotatable pipe that extends along the row. The cables extend around circular arches attached to the parabolic ribs that provide high leverage for rotating the troughs. Since the arches rotate in unison, the long trough row is maintained in rotational rigidity. Rather than having heavy concrete foundations and heavy structures to support the troughs, lightweight support posts are placed into the ground, and guy wires maintain the position of the posts.

Abstract: The invention relates to a trough collector (1) for a solar power plant, comprising a mount (34) carrying a supporting structure (30), means disposed on the supporting structure (30) for providing heat originating from incident solar radiation, and a pivot device (40) that is fixed to the supporting structure (30) and is used to pivot the supporting structure (30) with respect to the mount (34), wherein the centroidal axis (36) of the supporting structure (30) equipped with the means for providing the heat is located outside the pivot axis of the supporting structure (30), and wherein the pivot device (40) is configured such that the centroidal axis (39) of the fully equipped supporting structure (30) is located in the region of a fixed pivot axis (35). In this way, a cost-effective, and zero-backlash pivot drive for the trough collector is obtained.

Abstract: A solar power station includes a plurality of solar panels each connected to a leaf, the leaf including a roof beam; a plurality of bearing plates respectively attached to the roof beams of the leaves; a first supporting structure connected to the bearing plates; a second supporting structure rotatably connected to the first supporting structure and fixedly mounted to a base; and a plurality of hydraulic jacks. One end of each hydraulic jack is fixed with the first supporting structure, and another end of the hydraulic jack is pivotally mounted to the roof beam of one of the leaves.

Abstract: A one-axis sun position tracking device with its rotation axis parallel to the rotation axis of the Earth, rotates perpetually at a constant speed in the opposite direction of the Earth's rotation. This device comprises a shaft that is aligned to the Earth's polar axis, one or more crossbars are rigidly attached to and perpendicular to the shaft, solar energy collectors are mounted on the crossbar and could rotate around the crossbar that defines declination angle. A self-latched declination angle adjustment mechanism keeps the declination angle constant at most of time. A drive mechanism keeps this solar tracker to rotate perpetually. An automatic and abrupt declination angle change will keep the declination angle updated to correct value each day. A similarly configured two-axis tracker that continuously updates its declination angle by a mechanism derived from a differential coaxial rotation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a solar tracker with parabolic concentrator, comprising a parabolic concentrator (1) formed by a composition of mirrors (4) focused towards a Stirling engine (3), the mirrors (4) being located on a bearing structure (5), with securing by means of anchors (6) which allow a regulation in a vertical direction, in a lateral direction and in a depth direction, whereas the Stirling engine (3) is secured on the same bearing structure (5) by means of ties (10) which are attached to said Stirling engine (3) by means of two securing elements which can be adjusted in length, the bearing structure (5) being formed by parallel vertical lattices (14) comprising in their formation sheet metal boxes attached to one another by means of other intermediate sheet metal boxes.

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 revolutionary solar collecting system for effectively and efficiently harnessing the sun's energy is shown. The system tracks the sun and maintains a constant spatial focal point or sub-focal point to at least partially condense the sun's rays into a high-energy beam that may or may not be redirected to a predetermined location or locations for generating electrical power, heat energy, steam, and/or any other well-known applications In industry and research areas. The revolutionary system of the invention is low-cost, low maintenance, and is capable of significantly reducing energy costs.

Abstract: A mount and tracking mechanism for solar panels and antennae. The tracking mechanism comprises electric motor actuators which operate a small gear reducer drive. The output of the small reducer drive is connected to the input of a large gear reducer drive. The output of the large gear reducer drive moves the solar panels or antennae. This arrangement results in a substantial increase in the torque of the output shaft of the large gear reducer drive.

Abstract: A tilt mechanism associated with a solar panel assembly whereby effort required to tilt panel assemblies comprising the solar panel assembly is reduced or minimized by appropriate placement of first and second tilt axes with respect to the center of mass and/or center of pressure of the panel assemblies due to wind. These arrays are suitable for use on mobile or static installations. The tilt mechanism is suited for harnessing wind energy if the panels are suitably shaped.

Abstract: A tilt mechanism (11, 11A) associated with a solar panel assembly (10, 10A) whereby effort required to tilt panel assemblies (12, 13, 14) comprising the solar panel assembly (10, 10A) is reduced or minimized by appropriate placement of first and second tilt axes (18, 18A) with respect to the centre of mass and/or centre of pressure of the panel assemblies (12, 13, 14) due to wind. These arrays are suitable for use on mobile or static installations. The tilt mechanism is suited for harnessing wind energy if the panels are suitably shaped.

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 solar seeker that automatically or manually tracks the sun for a maximum daily intake of solar energy to supply a predetermined amount of direct current electricity for various applications. The solar seeker includes a solar panel carriage assembly, a mounting assembly, and a travel assembly.

Abstract: Device for heating with solar energy, which device contains at least one mirror construction (1) which is mounted on a frame (3) in a movable manner and which be directed towards the sun, and at least one collector (4) extending parallel to the mirror construction (1) in order to collect the solar radiation reflected by the mirror construction (1), characterized in that the mirror construction (1) contains a number of almost flat mirror strips (2) extending next to one another in the longitudinal direction of the collector (4) and which are each provided on the frame (3) such that they can rotate around their longitudinal direction, whereas the collector (4) is stationary in relation to the frame (3), whereby the mirror strips (2) are situated in an almost horizontal plane with their axes of rotation, whereby the device contains means (16) to rotate the mirror strips (2) and the mirroring surface of the mirror strips (2) such that the solar rays coming in on said surface can be reflected towards the collector

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: A solar panel control apparatus for varying the position of a solar panel mounted upon a roof comprising a solar panel support frame having a horizontal pivot rod mounted there beneath; a vertically receptacle collar having a clevis at its upper end rotatively receiving the pivot rod of the support frame and having a recess extending upwardly from its lower end with internal threads at its lower extent and a cylindrical cavity between the threads and the upper end; a rotatable shaft having a threaded upper end cooperatively secured with the threads of the collar and a handle whereby rotation of the shaft through the handle will act to raise and lower the collar and pivot with the support frame; a turret having a downwardly extending cavity having surfaces adapted to receive the collar; and a turret support plate with a upper face to support the turret, the turret plate having a wheel within the modular home to effect rotation of the plate and the turret whereby rotation of the handle will vary the angular ori

Abstract: A polar column solar collector for use in association with a building, the system having a concave mirror located on the exterior of the building and defining a focal point and a central axis, a mounting column secured to the mirror coaxial therewith, a polar axis column, a hinge swingably connecting the mounting column to the polar axis column for moving the concave mirror to aim it directly at the sun at least over a predetermined period of the daylight hours, a secondary reflector located at the focal point of the concave mirror to receive the sun's rays reflected from the concave mirror, an opening in the concave mirror to receive a concentrated beam of the sun's rays reflected from the secondary reflector and to direct the beam along the mounting column, a third reflector movably located at the junction of the mounting column and the polar axis column to receive the concentrated beam of the sun's rays from the secondary reflector reflected through the opening, and to redirect it along the polar axis colu