METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVED SOLAR CONCENTRATOR ARRAYS

摘要

A lightweight photovoltaic concentrator is disclosed. The concentrator comprises at least two (hinged) sections each comprising a cell panel (332), a radiator panel (320) and a reflector panel (310). The solar cell panel (332) comprises at least one photovoltaic cell for generating electrical power in response to radiation. The solar cell panel (332) is aligned with the radiator panel (320) at an angle less than 180 degrees but not less than 90 degrees facing the reflective concentrator panel (310). In another embodiment, the cell panels (332) on adjoining sections are angled in opposite directions with respect to the radiator panels (320) and wherein the reflective concentrator panels (310) are located on opposite sides of the radiator panels (320). A heat pipe (350) or loop heat pipe is located in the radiator panel (320) to dissipate heat from the solar cells (330).