View Single Post
Old 06-25-2018, 04:16 PM   #2156 (permalink)
freebeard
Master EcoModder
 
freebeard's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: northwest of normal
Posts: 27,562
Thanks: 7,738
Thanked 8,554 Times in 7,041 Posts
The parabolic trough doesn't require reorientation. This reminded me of Zomeworks solar-powered tracker.

Solar Module Trackers by Zomeworks

Quote:
The “Track Rack” solar tracker which Baer and Zomeworks staff developed is a metal-framed passive-solar dynamic mounting for photovoltaic (PV) modules. With an arrangement of cylinders, pistons, and tubing, the device uses the differential pressure and movement of entrapped liquid to enable gravity to turn the rack and follow the sun. Depending on heat and hydraulics, and without motors, gears, or computerized controls, the rack enables the PV module to face the sun ("sunflower-wise") for maximum efficiency. To fit into the developing solar energy industry, Zomeworks has designed and builds several Track Racks to fit all common photovoltaic modules.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Baer#Inventions

A balanced cylinder would be easier to manage that a flat plate in turbulent air flow.
__________________
.
.
Without freedom of speech we wouldn't know who all the idiots are. -- anonymous poster

____________________
 
The Following User Says Thank You to freebeard For This Useful Post:
aerohead (06-27-2018)