CONCENTRATED SOLAR APPARATUS

摘要

A concentrated solar energy collection structure the height of which is small in relation to the other dimensions, reducing the need for conventional heliostats. It consists of at least an optical array and a collection layer in the form of an array of components onto which the optical array(s) concentrates solar energy. The alignment of the optical layer(s) is/are varied in relation to the collection layer. Changes in the alignment of the collection layer with respect to the optical array serves the purpose of solar tracking and as a result reduces the need for angular solar tracking. The optical array has cost and structural advantages and reduces the height or thickness of the structure and allows for the possibility of solar energy collection structures or units that are much closer in resemblance to conventional non-concentrating roof mounted solar panels that have limited or no need for angular tracking of the sun.