Title: Parabolic trough solar energy collector assembly

Abstract: A parabolic trough solar energy collector including an elongated support with a plurality of ribs secured thereto and extending outwardly therefrom. One surface of said ribs is shaped to define a parabola and is adapted to receive and support a thin reflecting sheet which forms a parabolic trough reflecting surface. One or more of said collectors are adapted to be joined end to end and supported for joint rotation to track the sun. A common drive system rotates the reflectors to track the sun; the reflector concentrates and focuses the energy along a focal line. The fluid to be heated is presented along the focal line in a suitable pipe which extends therealong.

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Inventors: Kennedy, William S. (San Jose, CA, US)

Application Number: 760155
Filing Date: 1977-01-17
Publication_date: 1979-01-23
Assignee: Acurex Corporation (Mountain View, CA)
Primary Class(es): 126/577 126/694, 126/696, 359/867
Other Classes:
US Patent Ref:

1683266	Sep, 1928	Shipman	126/271.
2312546	Mar, 1943	Hazard et al.	244/123.
2330185	Sep, 1943	Palmer	244/123.
2872915	Feb, 1959	Bowen	126/271.
2906257	Sep, 1959	Abbot	126/271.
2945234	Jul, 1960	Driscoll	126/270.
3917942	Nov, 1975	McCay	126/270.
3959056	May, 1976	Caplan	126/271.
3996917	Dec, 1976	Trihey	126/270.
4000734	Jan, 1977	Matlock et al.	126/271.

Other Refs: 485390

May, 1938	GB

Primary Examiner: Dority, Jr., Carroll B.
Assistant Examiner:
Attorney: