Solar concentrator with integrated tracking and light delivery system with collimation

摘要

A solar light distribution system includes a solar light concentrator that is affixed externally to a light transfer tube. Solar light waves are processed by the concentrator into a collimated beam of light, which is then transferred through a light receiving port and into the light transfer tube. A reflector directs the collimated beam of light through the tube to a light distribution port. The interior surface of the light transfer tube is highly reflective so that the light transfers through the tube with minimal losses. An interchangeable luminaire is attached to the light distribution port and distributes light inside of a structure. A sun tracking device rotates the concentrator and the light transfer tube to optimize the receiving of solar light by the concentrator throughout the day. The system provides interior lighting, uses only renewable energy sources, and releases no carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere.

主权项

1. A solar light distribution system comprising:
a first tubular member extending lengthwise along a central, longitudinal axis (CL1), said first tubular member having a first support wall defining a first light transfer duct, a first light receiving port, and a first light delivery port that are all optically coupled; a solar light concentrator affixed externally to said first tubular member and located proximate to the first light receiving port, said light concentrator for receiving solar light waves, processing the solar light waves into a collimated light beam, and directing the collimated light beam through the first light receiving port and into the first light transfer duct; a first turning reflector disposed inside of the first light transfer duct and located proximate to the first light receiving port, said first turning reflector for reflecting the collimated light beam from the light receiving port, down the first light transfer duct, approximately parallel to the central, longitudinal axis (CL1), to the first light delivery port; and wherein said solar light concentrator further includes a primary reflector having a reflecting surface that is defined by a segment of a parent paraboloid, said primary reflector being aspherical and having an off-axis configuration with an optical axis located at or near an edge of said primary reflector; a secondary reflector positioned adjacent to said primary reflector to receive solar light reflected by said primary reflector; and a collimating lens located adjacent to said secondary reflector for receiving solar light reflected by said secondary reflector.