Sun tracking system
US4190766A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 22, 1977 |
| Grant date | Feb 26, 1980 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 22, 1997 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/47
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A sun tracking system having at least one photo-sensor for each tracking axis, wherein a small inclined mirror, blackened except for a small reflective aperture, reflects a spot of light on a predetermined surface fixed with respect to the mirror. The position of the spot on the surface is in accordance with the relative alignment of the mirror to the sun. A photo-sensor associated with a given axis is disposed on the surface at a position corresponding to the desired alignment of the device to the sun. A further photo-sensitive device can be disposed in close proximity to the first photo-sensor to effect positive activation of a motor to correct misalignment, illumination of the first photo-sensor inhibiting the motor and for compensating for changes in ambient light. A simple transistor-relay circuit for effecting correction of alignment is also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.