Torque transfer between trough collector modules

摘要

A system for transferring torque between modules in a concentrating solar collector array. A trough collector system includes at least two modules, each module including a reflector having a reflective surface shaped to concentrate incoming radiation onto a linear tube, and a structural lattice attached to the reflector. The modules are constrained to rotate about a common axis. A torque transfer connection directly connects the three-dimensional structural lattices of the two modules at a location removed from the axis of rotation. Torque is thus transmitted between the modules by a force couple acting on the module. Also described are a method of transferring torque between adjacent trough collector modules, and a three-dimensional structural lattice configured for use in the system and method. Mechanisms for accommodating thermal expansion and contraction of the array are described. A drive system is described that imparts torque to a module near an edge of the module.

主权项

1. A trough collector system, comprising:
a first module comprising a first reflector having a first reflective front surface shaped to concentrate incoming radiation on a linear tube, and a first three-dimensional structural lattice attached to the first reflector opposite the first reflective front surface; a second module comprising a second reflector having a second reflective front surface shaped to concentrate incoming radiation on the linear tube, and a second three-dimensional structural lattice attached to the second reflector opposite the second reflective front surface, wherein the first and second modules are constrained to rotate about a common axis of rotation parallel to the linear tube; and a torque transfer connection directly connecting the first three-dimensional structural lattice to the second three-dimensional structural lattice at a location removed from the axis of rotation, wherein the torque transfer connection comprises a spanning member that attaches to the first three-dimensional structural lattice and attaches to the second three-dimensional structural lattice, and wherein the spanning member is not parallel to the axis of rotation.