Abstract: A solar lighting apparatus includes a transparent dome. The transparent dome is provided, at its ceiling center, with a control box accommodating a stepping motor, a controller for controlling the motor and a secondary battery. The stepping motor has a motor shaft coupled with a rotary shaft. On the rotary shaft is coupled a support frame member through a universal joint. The rotary shaft is driven by the motor to turn a reflection mirror held on the support frame member over a predetermined angle while tracking the sun.

Abstract: A solar collection antenna has a large aperture reflective dish which is mounted on a dish support fame. When the dish is pointed at the sun, it reflects received solar radiation into a zone of concentration, at which either a solar energy receiver or a secondary reflector (supported by an ancillary support) is located. To track the sun, the dish is rotated about a first axis which is transverse the dish aperture and a second, orthogonal axis (which intersects the first axis). The center of mass of the combination of the dish, its support frame, the solar energy receiver or secondary reflector and the ancillary support is relatively close to the lower edge of the dish, and lies substantially on the transverse axis of rotation, at the point where the first and second axes intersect (or almost intersect). The dish aperture is chosen so that the dish experiences balanced wind loading about its transverse axis of rotation.

Abstract: A mechanism for elevationally driving a solar concentrator pivotally mounted on a pedestal between a zenith facing position, a horizon facing position, a downward facing position, and any intermediate position, using a single linear actuator. A lower bar is pivotally connected to the pedestal and an upper bar is pivotally connected to the solar concentrator. The lower bar and the upper bar are connected to a slider having a follower nut section which is driven by a linear actuator, having a motor driven lead screw, which is attached to the pedestal or an offset support structure portion of the solar concentrator.

Abstract: In order to generate sufficient electricity in a small light converging solar module, a power generation solar cell is provided with four movement solar cells, situated around it. Below the respective movement solar cells, electromagnets are situated, connected to corresponding movement solar cells. The power generation solar cell, the movement solar cells, and the electromagnets are all mounted on a cell holder, around which a permanent magnet in the form of a ring is provided. When a converged spot moves its position from on the power generation solar cell to a position off the power generation solar cell, and onto one of the movement solar cells, electricity is supplied to the corresponding electromagnet, thereby moving the cell holder due to attracting forces generated between the electromagnet and the permanent magnet. After the cell holder is moved to such a point where the converged spot correctly falls on the power generation solar cell, the cell holder stops its movement.

Abstract: The solar tracking system maintains a solar collector with its responsive surface normal to the sun rays. It includes a shaft supported for rotation about an axis parallel to the north-south axis of the earth, a stepper motor for intermittent rotation of the shaft at a mean rate equal to the earth's rate of rotation. A solar collector securing assembly is located on one side of the shaft and includes a bracket, collars securing the bracket to the shaft, a support for fixing a solar collector pivoted to the bracket about a pivotal axis transverse to the shaft to vary the inclination of the support relative to the shaft and stays between the support and the bracket to maintain the support at an adjusted inclination. A counter-balancing system includes an arm secured to the shaft and extending normal thereto and away from the assembly and a weight adjustably mounted on the shaft.

Abstract: A solar panel unit includes a solar panel (10) supported for rotation about a frame (13) and driven around the frame (13) by an electric motor (14). Radiation sensors (22) and (23) have their planar axes equally and oppositely off-set from the planar axis of the panel (10). Signals from the sensors (22) and (23) are monitored and used to control the operation of the motor (14) such that the panel (10) moves as the sun moves during daylight hours and the panel remains with its planar axis at right angles to rays of the sun throughout the day.

Abstract: A solar thermal collector incorporates an extended reflector surface constructed to concentrate radiation from a radiation source along a focal line. The reflector surface is oriented in a generally upward facing direction relative to the earth with the focal line above the reflector surface. A tracking system supports the extended reflector surface for double axis tracking of the sun by relative motion of the reflector surface to different tracking positions for optimizing concentrated radiation at the focal line. The tracking system is constructed to maintain the focal line of the extended reflector surface in a substantially horizontal orientation relative to the earth during tracking. An elongate absorber is positioned substantially at the focal line for absorbing and converting radiation to heat energy. An elongate absorber housing is coupled to the extended reflector surface and is constructed for positioning the elongate absorber substantially along the focal line.

Abstract: A solar collector involves an elongate main boom having a longitudinal axis and a solar collector frame. Brackets are provided for pivotally mounting the solar collector frame to the main boom for pivotal motion about a first pivotal axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main boom. A first motor is mounted to the main boom and has a rotary output shaft coaxially aligned with the first pivotal axis and drivingly connected to the frame for pivoting the frame about the first pivotal axis. A plurality of solar collector elements are pivotally mounted to the solar collector frame for synchronized pivotal motion with respect to the frame about respective second pivotal axes disposed substantially parallel to one another and substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the main boom.

Abstract: Disclosed is a heliostat assembly having a circular, ring mounted reflector which is driven and supported by an arrangement of elongated levers. A pair of levers are spaced apart and pivotally mounted at their lower ends, and have upper ends which are linked to the heliostat ring at diametrically opposite horizontally spaced location, by way of ball-and-socket type joints. A third lever has a first end similarly mounted to the heliostat ring at a location below and mid-way between the connections of the lever pair. Assuming the assembly is located in a south-facing heliostat field, the third lever extends generally southward to its second end which is mounted for movement about a horizontal axis. By driving each one of the lever pair in opposite directions the heliostat may be turned for solar tracking. The heliostat may also be driven to a protective stow position by pivoting the lever pair southwardly together in parallel, until the heliostat is turned to a horizontal, face-down position.

Abstract: A solar energy transfer spoiler assembly, comprises of a base for supporting the remaining elements of the assembly, an azimuth and elevation drive mechanism, a moving structure frame, a plurality of energy collecting elements, a first spoiler and a second spoiler. The first end of the base is fixedly secured to the ground, and the second end is attached to the azimuth and elevation drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is comprised of an azimuth drive motor and gearing, and the elevation drive motor and gearing. The moving structure is rotatably attached to the azimuth and elevation gears for free gimboling movement by the drive mechanism. The moving structure is a rectangular shaped frame having disposed thereon a plurality of energy collecting elements. Attached to the leading edge of the moving structure frame is the first spoiler or pair of spoilers if the frame is of the split unit design.

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: An optical system makes use of solar illumination as a light source to achieve covert operation.

Abstract: A unified heliostat array for reflecting the rays of the sun upon a central collector. The heliostats are driven by a single pair of drive motors that are coupled to a sun tracker and to the individual heliostats by a common pair of drive cables. The common drive capability is made practical through the use of a novel rotational element defined as a transaxial link.

Abstract: Disclosed is a stereoscopic projection system for viewing from an eye station a stereoscopic image composed of a 1 x magnification of an image source pair. Said system comprises a pair of image sources each having an image center which are spaced apart from each other; a concave spherical mirror segment having a center of curvature and located between said image source pair and said viewable stereoscopic image. The concave spherical mirror is disposed so that the image centers of said image source pair and said viewable stereoscopic image are located at said center of curvature. Image deflecting means are disposed between its image source and said spherical mirror about the juncture whereat the aperture of the system is the smallest so that the image center of each of said image sources are located in spaced apart relationship.

Abstract: A solar tracking control system for generally controlling the position of a pivotable solar panel connected to a motor by selectively energizing and de-energizing the motor. A signal programmer generates a plurality of time dependent signals wherefrom periodic motor energizing signals are generated for retaining the motor energized and the solar panel pivoting westerly. The degree of pivot of the solar panel is detected and a de-energizing signal is provided for stopping the motor and the westerly pivoting of the solar panel. The solar tracking control system is energized and de-energized in response to a power signal generated by signals received from the signal programmer. A water storage tank is connected to the solar panel and a water pump connected therebetween is energized on the occurrence of a preselected temperature different between the solar panel and the water storage tank.

Abstract: A natural lighting apparatus includes a mirror for reflecting light, and a supporting mechanism for supporting the mirror for rotation about both a first axis and a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. A first sensing mechanism is provided for sensing a first direction of the light source about the first axis, and for generating a first signal representative of the first light source direction about the first axis. A second sensing mechanism is provided for sensing a second direction of the light source about the second axis, and for generating a second signal representative of the second light source direction about the second axis. An attitude control mechanism angularly drives the mirror about the first axis according to the first signal from the first sensing mechanism, and about the second axis according to the second signal from the second sensing mechanism, thus controlling the attitude of the mirror to reflect light from the light source in a predetermined direction.

Abstract: A signal generator equipped with a shading device and two light sensors is arranged on the upper side of a slat equipped with retro-reflective prisms and rotatable about a longitudinal axis. Depending upon the sun's position relative to the slat, the light sensors are variously shaded or illuminated by means of the shading device, and when the slat is rotated about its longitudinal axis, the light sensors supply electrical code values which change in opposing directions. A difference between the code values is fed via an amplifier to a servo-motor which rotates the slat about its longitudinal axis until the plane of incidence of the sun's rays, which passes through the longitudinal axis, is at right angles to the upper side of the slat. This ensures that sun's rays which hit the slat are reflected regardless of the sun's position, the time of year, and the alignment of the facade plane in which the slat is arranged.

Abstract: In a driving method of an optical switch element for controlling a quantity of transmission light between opposed electrodes by interposing a transparent, high dielectric material between the opposed electrodes and applying a positive or negative voltage between the opposed electrodes, the improvement wherein a period in which the opposed electrodes are substantially short-circuited is disposed in order to make it possible to either reduce or eliminate stored charge.

Abstract: A radiant energy utilization device including an aiming detector sensing the relative angle of radiation received and outputting signals in accordance therewith to control aiming of the device or portions thereof or for other purposes.

Abstract: A solar self-tracking mechanism for continuously tracking the movement of the sun with time comprises a solar radiant energy receiver secured to a base set on the ground and rotatable about a rotating shaft which extends horizontally in an east-west direction and a plurality of compound parabolic concentrators secured to both longitudinal edges of the solar receiving mechanism in parallel to the rotating shaft. The sun energy concentrated on suitable means such as shape memory alloy coil or solar cell module located at a position coincident with the focal line of the compound parabolic concentrator is transferred to a mechanism for driving the rotating shaft of the solar radiant energy receiver thereby to rotate the same and continuously obtain the solar radiant energy.

Abstract: A plate provided with solar collectors is carried by a mast, which rests on a top member which defines the top of a liquid-filled chamber, which has a variable volume. When an outlet nozzle of the chamber is opened, the weight of the mast compresses a bellows, which defines the chamber. As a result, the mast descends and is rotated at the same time because a radial pin slides in a helical groove or slot formed in the tube.

Abstract: A solar generator support structure mounting standard photovoltaic panels thereon is disclosed. The solar panels are housed in flat planes (bays and courses) which include a plurality of parallel, symmetrically faceted and stepped areas that are a maximum at the base and over the center of the support structure and which planes define a dome-shaped segment called a hemidome. The planes face upwardly and are stepped, ramped (or a combination thereof) with respect to each other. Single or double axis tracking is provided so that the sun's movement is followed.

Abstract: This invention concerns a tracking device which enables the positioning of an apparatus to trace a curved path. For example, they are suitable for solar devices such as photovoltaic generators, solar cookers and heliostates. Normally the tracking apparatus is mounted on a vertical axis, whereas according to the invention a necessary tilt to the horizontal axis is attained automatically through a directing limb by rotating the vertical axis, this making possible a trustworthy and uncomplicated manufacturable and manageable tracking device that can be easily adjusted to the local circumstances.

Abstract: This solar concentrator system is configured such that the base pedestal attachment point is located on the beam connecting the curved solar reflector and the heat energy receiver power conversion unit, herein envisioned as a Stirling engine. This attachment point is located near the balance point CG (Center of Gravity) of the power conversion unit-supporting beam-curved reflector subsystem such that the loads on the base pedestal and the attached solar tracking drive systems are minimized.

Abstract: A method of automatically aligning heliostats by comparing the actual sunbeam centroid position on a target to a command reference position to determine the error in the sunbeam centroid location.The sunbeam centroid position error is then analyzed to correlate the error to errors in the heliostats' track alignment system. New coefficients are established for the heliostats' track alignment system to automatically correct for errors in the system, this eliminates the need for resurveying and field work normally associated with aligning heliostats.

Abstract: A solar heating apparatus is disclosed along with a method of making a solar heating apparatus. The apparatus has a frame with a solar collector movably mounted thereto. A solar tracking mechanism moves the solar collector on the frame during daylight hours responsive to differential heating of a plurality of fluid filled containers located on the solar collector. The tracking mechanism includes a rotating mechanism attached between the frame and the solar collector and having a pair of arcuate cylinders therein along with a pair of fixed pistons. The arcuate cylinders are connected to a pair of fluid filled containers or pipes located on the solar collector and partially shaded in different positions to provide a differential fluid pressure between the containers and between the cylinders of the rotating mechanism. The differential fluid pressure rotates one part of the rotating mechanism attached to the solar collector.

Abstract: A device for chasing a moving light source includes a plurality of photosensors arranged in elaborated positions for accurate operation. A top plate is formed with a calibrated cruciform opening to minimize indirect light tending to enter the device. Some of the photosensors expected to receive direct light through the cruciform opening are adjustable in position in two perpendicular directions relative to the remaining part of the device. The device can be disassembled for ease of production, maintenance, etc.

Abstract: Disclosed is a heliostat collector apparatus comprising at least one heliostat suspended from a plurality of longitudinally extending linkage means. An enclosure structure is disposed adjacent the heliostat and provides a means for allowing the heliostat to be substantially protected from weathering. A first drive means is operatively connected to the heliostat to effect steering thereof in at least one of first and second predetermined directions. Finally, a frame member is adapted for supporting the heliostat at an inner portion thereof. The frame includes a plurality of outer expandable portions. Each one of the expandable portions is adapted to slidably engage a corresponding one of the plurality of linkage means. The expandable portions are further adapted to allow the heliostat to be slidably moved along the linkage means in directions away from and towards the enclosure structure and to substantially reduce stress acting on the heliostat during steering.

Abstract: An improved heliostat comprises a focusing reflector having a toroidal configuration. Mounting means for the reflector comprises means defining a first axis parallel to the earth's polar axis, and means defining a declination axis perpendicular to the first axis. The reflector is mounted for rotation about the declination axis. The means defining the declination axis and the reflector are jointly rotatable about the first axis. A field of heliostats in accordance with the present invention may be arranged to reflect solar radiation to a common receiver. A suitable heliostat field arrangement is a field lying in a plane which is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane at the earth's surface. Also disclosed is a deflecting means for each heliostat facilitating rapid focusing of all heliostats in a field upon the receiver, or rapid defocusing of the field.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an elevation orientation mount for a parabolic mirror reflector of a solar heating module. The altazimuthal orientation mount according to the invention is adapted to a solar heating module comprising a parabolic mirror reflector orientable around a horizontal axis by a jack actuating unit whose cylinder is a turret and whose rod is articulated to the reflector. The jack is equipped for return and locking tending to extend the rod and to lock it at the stroke-end where the reflector occupies a position such that its axis of revolution is vertical.

Abstract: A modular solar radiation concentrator consists of many identical reflective panels (1), each having the shape of a portion of the surface of a sphere. The panels (1) are mass produced, mounted between a pair of horizontal beams (2) so they can partially rotate about two orthogonal axes, and aligned as part of multi-beam (2) modules (3) on a test fixture so that all panels (1) reflect distant radiation upon a small aperture (36). Spaces occur between all panels (1) when mounted in the concentrator. The reflector support structure (4) has a finite number of identically angled bends so that the overall reflector (47) approximates the surface of a sphere. A solar radiation receiver (34) is hingedly suspended to the support structure (4) at the focal point of each of the panels (1). The reflector (47) is mounted upon an azimuth/elevation mount (6, 46), which rotates reflector (47) 360.degree. about a vertical azimuth axis and 90.degree. or more about an orthogonal elevation axis.

Abstract: An improvement in a system and method of controlling heliostat in which the heliostat is operable in azimuth and elevation by respective stepper motors and including the respective steps or means for calculating the position for the heliostat to be at a commanded position, determining the number of steps in azimuth and elevation for each respective motor to get to the commanded position and energizing both the azimuth and elevation stepper motors to run in parallel until predetermined number of steps away from the closest commanded position in azimuth and elevation so that the closest position has been achieved, and thereafter energizing only the remaining motor to bring it to its commanded position. In this way, the heliostat can be started from a stowed position in the morning and operated by a computer means to its commanded position and kept correctly oriented throughout the day using only the time of the day without requiring the usual sensors and feedback apparatus.

Abstract: A sunrays focusing apparatus for obtaining highly condensed solar energy. The apparatus includes a first trough-shaped parabolic reflector mounted for rotation about both vertical and horizontal axes.A first elongated refractor is mounted to the first parabolic reflector along or adjacent to the focal axis of the first parabolic reflector.A second trough-shaped parabolic reflector is also mounted to the first parabolic reflector in such a way that focal axes of both first and second parabolic reflectors are disposed at right angles to each other.A second reflector is mounted to the first parabolic reflector along or adjacent to the focal axis of the second parabolic reflector. Mounted on the second parabolic reflector is a sun tracking device responsive to sunrays for directing the first parabolic reflector towards the sun.

Abstract: A lightweight (i.e., less than 50 kg) optical jammer system for use with a satellite in earth orbit. The jammer system is mounted on the satellite and produces an obfuscating programmable signature of concentrated sunlight which is modulated and directed to earth. A potential enemy observer on earth is thereby prevented from ascertaining the general mission of the satellite, because the known reflected sunlight signature of the satellite is masked.

Abstract: A technique for converting solar energy directly to electrical energy is disclosed herein and utilizes a plurality of photovoltaic-like flat panels having solar collecting front sides. These panels are supported for simultaneous rotation about a given axis, preferably a horizontal or south sloping axis, while their solar collecting front sides face the same direction. At the same time, these front sides are maintained in end-to-end relationship with one another within a common plane, preferably one which is at all times parallel with the axis of rotation. In actual operation, the photovoltaic-like panels are simultaneously rotated about their given axis in tracking relationship with the sun, preferably so as to maintain the solar collecting front sides of the panels at a fixed acute angle with respect to the sun's rays. Moreover,the panels are preferably supported adjacent to one another in a way which minimizes the distance between endmost panels.

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.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for driving an array or large field of solar concentrators (10) by means of pneumatic pulses of compressed air such that it tracks the movement of the sun (14) across the sky is disclosed. The drive system includes a multiplicity of gearing means (26) which is mounted to one or more solar concentrators (10) for providing the movement of said solar concentrators to track the sun (14). The multiplicity of gearing means are driven by a multiplicity of drive means (28) in response to pulses of compressed air which are selectively provided to achieve the necessary tracking. The pulses of compressed air are provided to the drive (26) means from a compressed air source (38) by means of pneumatic valving (32) which is selectively opened and closed by means of electrical drive signals. The compressed air is connected to the pneumatic valving (32) and then further connected to the drive means (26) by means of fluid conduits (34) such as for example, plastic tubing.

Abstract: The solar direction sensor disclosed a solar direction sensor which is mounted on an apparatus for collecting solar energy by precisely following the movement of the sun.The solar direction sensor is characterized in that it has a cylinder, an opaque flange mounted on the top end portion of the cylinder and having a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the cylinder and at least two pair of beam sensor disposed at symetric positions on the lower end portion of the cylinder, the diameter of the inner end of each of the beam sensors are equal to the inner diameter of the flange.

Abstract: A sun tracking apparatus comprises a first pair of photosensors arranged at symmetrically opposed positions on a first horizontal axis rotatable around a third vertical axis, and a second pair of photosensors arranged at symmetrically opposed positions on a second axis perpendicular to and rotatable around the first axis. To the first and third axes are connected driving means which operate when there are differences in outputs between the first pair of photosensors and between the second pair of photosensors, respectively.

Abstract: An automatic parasitically driven declinator for changing the tilt angle of the mirror of a heliostat to provide solar declination tracking by the heliostat. The declinator includes an axial gear drive train coupled to the polar axial shaft of the heliostat, which shaft is rotated. A pendulum arrangement coupled via an input shaft to the axial gear drive train is substantially held in plumb position by gravity wherein the gear drive train is driven as it is rotated about the polar axis by the polar axial shaft. An output shaft coupled to the gear train is rotated to drive a skew bar linkage assembly that is connected to the mirror mounting assembly of the heliostat. The gear ratio of the gear drive train assembly is made 365:1 so that the mirror angle is annually nutated a predetermined number of degrees corresponding to the cyclic variations of solar declination.

Abstract: Apparatus for converting solar energy to useful energy principally for home use. The apparatus provides a complete system for receiving solar energy over a large area, e.g. 1,000 square feet; concentrating the energy; and directing the energy toward a target of a few square feet at an extremely high temperature. The receiving, concentrating and transmitting apparatus consists of an array of collectors provided with mechanisms for tracking the sun. The collectors include a system of reflectors and/or lenses to first concentrate and then direct the energy toward the target.The system further includes a substantial storage chamber with means for circulating a fluid between the target and the storage chamber to transfer heat from the target to the storage chamber. The system further includes means for transferring the heat from the target and/or storage system to a heat engine and electrical generator combination to create power for use on demand.

Abstract: A solar powered, solar aiming device pivotally mounted on a base 40 uses a pair of separate solar sensor panels 11 and 12 that are insulated from each other and oriented at an angle to each other. Hydraulics angularly pivot the sensor panels relative to the base in response to pressure produced by sunlight shining on sensor tubes 13 and 14 arranged within the sensor panels to contain refrigerant material. The refrigerant communicates with and pressurizes a pair of bladder separators 21 and 22 that separate the refrigerant from hydraulic material operating the hydraulic pivoter.

Abstract: An optical/mechanical solar tracking system having a lens for focusing the sun's rays for use by an element which changes shape in response to heat. The change of shape of the element is used to operate a mechanical brake which allows the tracking system to move impelled by the force of gravity to a position in which the sun's rays are directed for effective use.

Abstract: Apparatus for rotation of an aggregate independently about two mutually perpendicular axes, in particular for tracking solar collectors. A stationary first drive mechanism includes a housing, an electric motor, a multi-stage planetary gear set, a spur-gear stage and a driven shaft. A rotatable second drive mechanism includes a housing carried at the free end of the driven shaft of the first drive mechanism. The second drive mechanism further includes an electric motor, a multi-stage planetary gear set, a spur-gear stage and a driven shaft. The driven shaft of the second drive mechanism is directed perpendicular to the driven shaft of the first drive mechanism and carries at its ends the aggregates to be rotated.

Abstract: A tracking insolation collector characterized by elongated prisms of acute apex angle maintained with an objective face disposed normal to the sun rays and through which dispersed light is projected from a transmission face and onto a coordinated mirror for geometric focus onto a target, the heat rays of the spectrum being concentrated onto the target by lens means on the plane of said projection, an astro timer revolving the prisms and mirrors throughout reversed morning and afternoon tracking modes in alignment with the traverse plane of the sun.

Abstract: A tracking insolation collector characterized by elongated prisms of acute apex angle maintained with an objective face disposed normal to the sun rays and through which dispersed light is projected from a transmission face and onto a coordinated mirror for geometric focus onto a target, the heat rays of the spectrum being concentrated onto the target by lens means on the plane of said projection, an astro timer revolving the prisms and mirrors throughout reversed morning and afternoon tracking modes in alignment with the traverse plane of the sun.

Abstract: A solar tracking apparatus and system for supporting and use with solar devices. The apparatus is comprised of a pair of concentric shafts oriented parallel to the earth's rotational axis with one shaft being rotated by a motor at one revolution per day, so that a yoke rigidly attached to this shaft will follow the diurnal motion of the sun. The second concentric shaft is rotated at a rate relative to the first shaft and by means of a spherical four-bar linkage will automatically produce a rotational oscillation of a support or gimbal mounted on the yoke equal to the yearly declination of the sun. A means is also provided for advancing or retarding the diurnal motion of the yoke at specific times of the year so as to correct for anomalies in the motion of the sun, commonly known as "the equation of time". A means is also provided for coupling a large array of solar tracking yokes to a single central drive unit.

Abstract: A solar energy collection system for receiving and collecting a concentrated supply of available energy from the sun includes a reflector having an internal structural frame covered by a thin deformable film at the front and a membrane cover enclosing the remainder of the structure. The front film has a reflective surface deformable into the desired configuration by the creation of a partial vacuum within the reflector. The reflector is driven by a two axis tracking mechanism directed by controls including a microprocessor programmed with data providing the position of the sun. The sun's rays are reflected from the reflective surface into an absorber through which working fluid circulates and which has a low radiation loss tube matrix design. The tubes are supported from a heat exchanger plate at one end of the absorber by means of rods carried by the plate which trap a beaded lip at the end of the tubes.

Abstract: The subject invention involves equipment for tracking the sun by utilizing its energy. Otherwise expressed, the invention is directed to what may be termed a solar collector assembly which is operated by the rays of the sun for automatically maintaining the assembly correctly positioned on the sun in order to substantially obtain the maximum amount of energy therefrom when it is available.

Abstract: An apparatus for causing a solar energy collector to constantly follow the sun using the sun's radiant energy reflected from an arrangement of mirrors to differentially heat fluid-containing reservoirs to create a differential pressure which is utilized to rotate the apparatus and the collector.